Call Me the Mother of Quick Transmigration

by Usui Takumii

not mine, from bubble tea translations.wordpress.

3. 21 to 30

Chapter 21 – My Son is a Phoenix Man1

Li Su opened her eyes and realised that her environment had changed again. She couldn't help but curse inwardly. She didn't even get time to rest before her world was changed so quickly!

Li Su sat up and looked around. Although she wasn't mentally prepared, she was still taken aback by how poor the family was.

The plot slowly entered her mind. Li Su felt confused and heavy. Damn, it was another weird story. But why was the original body's name also Li Su?!

This is a cliché story of a phoenix man and a peacock woman2. Li Su is the mother of the phoenix man, Jiang Shan. Since she was a widow, she raised her only son with painstaking effort. Jiang Shan was very filial, sensible, and hard-working. He became the first student to enter university from his village.

After graduating from university, Jiang Shan stayed in the city and worked for a well-known company. Since he was steadfast and willing to work, he was highly valued by his boss. By chance, Jiang Shan accidentally saved a girl being pestered by a drunkard during his night shift.

As a result, Jiang Shan saw the girl at the company the next day and she fiercely started pursuing him. Her name was Wei Yue Er.

Jiang Shan had a girlfriend at the time. However, after the Wei family used some methods, the girl retreated and the two of them broke up. Later, Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er got together slowly.

After going through various events, Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er finally got married. When Jiang Shan first came to the city, he had no savings. The wedding venue was paid for by the Wei family. However, in order to have some consideration for Jiang Shan's face, his name was written alongside Wei Yue Er's.

Jiang Shan was a very filial person. After he got married, he discussed with Wei Yue Er about taking Li Su to the city to live with them.

But when Li Su arrived, there were many arguments between Wei Yue Er and Li Su due to different upbringings. Wei Yue Er disliked Li Su's ignorance and lack of hygiene, while Li Su disliked Wei Yue Er for being too squeamish and did not serve her son, instead having her son serve Wei Yue Er.

Therefore, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law were always fighting. Jiang Shan was also extremely conceited, sensitive, and suspicious. Wei Yue Er's dislike of Li Su made Jiang Shan very unhappy and thought that she looked down on him. However, due to the Wei family, Jiang Shan could only endure it silently.

Later on, Wei Yue Er became pregnant. For the sake of the child, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law came to a truce and were harmonious. The husband and wife were affectionate and the Jiang family was at peace for a while.

But this changed after Wei Yue Er gave birth to a daughter. As soon as Li Su heard that Wei Yue Er was giving birth to a daughter, her face collapsed. When she heard the doctor say that Wei Yue Er had a difficult birth, injured her body, and might have difficulties getting pregnant in the future, Li Su left the hospital.

The Wei family took Wei Yue Er back for the confinement period3. and she lived there ever since.

Jiang Shan went to pick her up, but the Wei family said that Wei Yue Er could move back if Li Su would move out and not disturb the married couple. The Wei family even offered to buy a house for Li Su to live in.

Jiang Shan was arrogant and suspicious. He was also very filial to Li Su. How could he agree?

So, they were at a stalemate.

Jiang Shan came back from work every day and was alone. His work wasn't going well. Although Li Su felt wronged, she felt sorry for her son and couldn't bear this. So, she quietly returned to her hometown.

Who knew that an accident would suddenly happen? Li Su, who was reluctant to spend money on a plane or train ticket, chose to take a bus. The bus got into an accident due to the driver's fatigue, and Li Su died.

After Jiang Shan heard the news, he fainted. The Wei family also got the news, so Wei Yue Er came back with her daughter to help take care of Li Su's matters.

Wei Yue Er was a little nervous at first. She knew that Jiang Shan and her mother-in-law had a very good relationship. Her mother-in-law worked hard to bring up Jiang Shan. She had thought about being filial to her mother-in-law, but her mother-in-law was too unreasonable. She was also spoiled since she was a child, so how could she stand this? Along with the difficulties of getting along with her mother-in-law, the problematic birth she went through, and Jiang Shan not speaking up for her, she moved back with her family in a fit of anger.

Wei Yue Er was worried that Jiang Shan would blame her for her mother-in-law's death. However, Jiang Shan didn't seem to care about it and instead kindly comforted her. After arranging her mother-in-law's matters, they returned to how they lived previously, even more harmonious than before. He loved his daughter and took good care of them. He was a good husband and a good father in everyone's eyes.

In the blink of an eye, 4-5 years passed. Jiang Shan remained the same. After a long time, the Wei family and Wei Yue Er relaxed.

Wei Yue Er felt very happy. Her husband was gentle and considerate, her daughter was smart and cute, and her parents were healthy. She felt that her life was perfect.

Except for the anniversary of the death of her mother-in-law every year. Her husband was always depressed.

But the death of her mother-in-law has always been a sore spot between her and her husband's heart. She dared not touch it easily.

Later, President Wei fell ill. After recovering, he was still weak. His company then began to rely more heavily on Jiang Shan. Jiang Shan also behaved respectfully and asked for detailed instructions for all matters.

After a long time, President Wei was relieved and gradually delegated him more power.

However, in a year, Jiang Shan slowly removed President Wei's influence and completely controlled the company.

Wei Yue Ei didn't know anything about it and was immersed in her own happiness.

But one day, she accompanied Jiang Shan to the company's annual meeting and accidentally drank too much. After waking up, she found herself lying naked in a hotel room next to a naked man. Just as Wei Yue Er was panicking, the door of the room opened. A sweaty Jiang Shan rushed in and his worried eyes became cold when he saw the scene in front of him.

Wei Yue Er hugged the quilt in a panic and fell off the bed. She tried to explain, but she only saw Jiang Shan's back as he walked away.

Since then, Jiang Shan had often stayed out at night, occasionally coming back drunk with the scent of strange women on him. He always refused to say anything to Wei Yue Er.

Wei Yue Er blamed herself a lot. She thought it was her fault so she didn't dare to tell anyone what happened. She couldn't tell her parents. Her father was sick again and her mother was busy taking care of her father. Wei Yue Er couldn't help. She was ashamed to bother them because of this matter so she endured it alone.

This cold situation lasted for half a year. Wei Yue Er couldn't bear such mental pressure and became mentally unstable. She finally left behind a suicide note and chose to commit suicide.

In her suicide note, Wei Yue Er said that everything was her fault, that she had done something wrong and that it had nothing to do with Jiang Shan. She also wrote that she hoped her parents would not blame Jiang Shan.

After Father Wei heard the news, he fainted. He guessed things were not as simple as Wei Yue Er outlined in her note.

Sure enough, that night, Jiang Shan went to the hospital alone to see Father Wei. He told Father Wei that he was right, that Wei Yue Er was forced to death by him. He didn't love Wei Yue Er at all. He and his girlfriend never broke up and had been together, having a son that was only 2 months younger than Wei Yue Er's daughter. The reasons he married Wei Yue Er were for the company, money, and power.

He didn't intend on forcing Wei Yue Er to her death. He thought about divorcing her when he took control of the company. When he knew that the Wei family actually indirectly killed his mother, he changed his plans. He deliberately got Wei Yue Er drunk and made her feel like everything was her fault. He used cold, abusive silent treatment to drive her crazy, thus resulting in her killing herself!

At the end of his admission, Father Wei's eyes widened and he was smothered to death.

Mother Wei, who was coming over to bring fruit, heard these words. She saw Father Wei and was immediately furious. She rushed Jiang Shan and the two of them struggled in the room. Jiang Shan accidentally pushed Mother Wei from the windowsill where she fell to her death.

When the police came in to question him, Jiang Shan said that, upon Father Wei learning of Wei Yue Er's death, he had a heart attack since he couldn't accept it. Mother Wei couldn't accept the news about her daughter and her husband, so she jumped from the window to commit suicide. He tried to stop her, but he wasn't able to.

Perhaps it was because Jiang Shan had a good image and the fact that the police couldn't find any evidence to suggest otherwise, so they determined Mother Wei died by suicide. Jiang Shan was able to escape unscathed.

Half a year after their deaths, Jiang Shan married Mei Li. After their marriage, his son took on the last name of Jiang and became the son of Jiang Shan.

After marriage, Mei Li treated Wei Yue Er's daughter, Jiang Xin Ran, very well. She was totally submissive and granted her whatever she wanted. It wasn't long before Mei Li worked her way into Jiang Xin Ran's good graces and they lived together like a happy family.

When she saw this, Li Su laughed coldly. Jiang Shan was no doubt, a jerk, and that Mei Li was not a good person. They were just as bad as each other4. Jiang Shan still had some good-will towards Jiang Xin Ran since she was his biological daughter, but Mei Li was different. Jiang Xin Ran was the eldest young miss, and was only 'pampered and spoiled' by Mei Li so that she would behave atrociously and be sent to a foreign country where she would gain a drug addiction and die a tragic death.

Li Su figured the person she had to rescue this time was Jiang Shan. Preventing Jiang Shan from blackening would be a difficult task. Jiang Shan was probably already starting to blacken, but he should not be completely black. After all, from what she read of the plot, his push to blacken started with his mother, Li Su.

Because Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er were married, although he was rushing for the Wei family's money, there was no need to despise Wei Yue Er and then betray her. He also started out thinking well of his wife.

Li Su remembered that the reason why Jiang Shan would blacken and have his old love ignited was during the second month after Li Su left. Since Li Su and Wei Yue Er did not get along, Li Su always had something bad to say about Wei Yue Er to Jiang Shan every day. Wei Yue Er felt that Jiang Shan did not speak up for her and was in a bad mood.

This matter regarding Jiang Shan was very difficult. He cherished the memory of his first girlfriend, Mei Li. She was gentle and soft and was full of affection for him. A few steps and Jiang Shan would completely blacken.

So, if you didn't want Jiang Shan to turn black, you had to first look at Li Su.

1(鳳凰男) I had to look this up, and apparently this term refers to men who came from humble beginnings, made his way through school, exhausted his family's resources in the process, then was expected to change the fate of his family when he eventually succeeded. According to The Atlantic, women dislike these types of men because they think his insecurity, fear of failure, penny pinching, inferiority complexes, and the prioritization of his extended family over his wife and kids are traits that can't be changed.↩

2(孔雀女) A woman who lives in cities, have been loved by their parents since the day they were born, and have led lives full of luxury. They are apathetic towards money and don't pay attention to the financial situation of suitors.↩

3(坐月子) resting for a month after childbirth. The woman will follow a special diet and do what she can to prevent the body from exposure to the 'wind'.↩

4(一丘之貉) the idiom is 'jackals of the same lair'

Chapter 22 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 2)

Li Su checked how much time she had. Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er would come back in 2-3 days. This meant that she had to stay in this place with no shower or air conditioning. How can she bear it?

Li Su's expression darkened. This place… She couldn't help but frown. How was the original owner? She was originally a gentle woman. After her husband died, she changed from a soft woman who blushed and didn't dare to raise her voice to a rude and unreasonable country woman.

The original Li Su lived in the countryside and her family's only source of income was a few acres of land. In order for her son to study, the original worked in the fields every day and night, rarely cleaning up the home. Additionally, the original was cheap and often picked up scraps and brought them home.

In the past when Jiang Shan came back for the holidays, he couldn't stand it. He would clean it up so he would be able to see people around it.

But since Jiang Shan was admitted to university, he had not returned for several years due to work-study programs. Therefore, the Jiang family was no better than a garbage dump.

Therefore, when Wei Yue Er visited the Jiang family's house for the first time, she almost fainted from the smell. She also saw Li Su, who hadn't bathed for more than a month, and was full of disgust.

This was a very unpleasant first meeting for the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. It also laid the groundwork for their following interactions.

Now that Li Su was here, she couldn't be like this anymore.

Li Su clutched her nose and looked at her surroundings in disgust. Although it was a 3-room earthen house1, if she cleaned it up diligently, it could be tidy and clean. She really didn't know how the original owner lived in a place like this. Anyway, she has replaced the original and she can't bear it.

Li Su found a towel in the cabinet. She tore it in half and tied it around her head, covering her nose. She then proceeded to tidy the house, first clearing up the rubbish piled in the corner.

Li Su worked all night, running the cart back and forth 7-8 times before she had thrown away all the garbage in the house.

The Jiang family's house was built at the edge of the village. Because Li Su smelled on weekdays, her relationship with her neighbours was not good. But since everyone was from the same village, and the Jiang family had a college student, they usually took care of Li Su. Many neighbours came over to ask questions after hearing movements from the Jiang household. They wanted to know what was happening since Li Su, who didn't allow anyone to touch the garbage even if there were flies everywhere in summer and refused to clean up, was making movements.

As an explanation, Li Su said, "Jiang Shan will bring back his wife in two days. My daughter-in-law is from the city and has a clean house. Although our family is poor, we must make our house clean. Daughter-in-law from the city doesn't have a place to stay!"

After thinking about it, the neighbours believed Li Su.

It took Li Su another day to clean all the corners of the house. There were only a few pieces of broken furniture in the house, and those were cleaned. Although there was still some dirt that she couldn't wipe off completely, it was very clean.

After that, Li Su spent another day tidying up the clothes at home, throwing away all the shabby things. She washed the rest of the usable clothes and the quilts. She then took them out to dry and then proceeded to wash the sheets.

On the last day, Li Su boiled 3 large pots of water and washed from head to toe 3 times before she was barely clean. She trimmed her nails and cut her hair. She was finally clean. Now, she waited for Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er to arrive.

At the same time, Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er were sitting in the car, driving back to his hometown. The country roads were a little bumpy, so Wei Yue Er was not used to it. She had some motion sickness. At this time, she was resting in the seat with her eyes closed. Jiang Shan looked at Wei Yue Er with worry while he drove and asked her about her condition.

Wei Yue Er felt better. She was about to speak, when she saw Jiang Shan's worried look. "Husband, what's wrong?"

"Yue Er… It's like this. My mother, she is… Mm… How do I put this? My mother is a widowed rural person. You know, in the countryside, it isn't easy for a widow to look after an older child. That's why my mother is a bit harsh and mean when she speaks, but she has a good heart. Don't take it to heart. Also, my family is very poor. There are no brick houses, only earthen houses. This environment… Maybe…" Jiang Shan hesitated.

"Husband, I know what you're talking about." Wei Yue Er smiled innocently and sat upright. She stared into Jiang Shan's eyes. "Husband, it must have been difficult to raise you. I will be filial to mother. I am very grateful. Mother has brought you up so well! When we got married, I was already feeling very guilty for failing to invite mother. I will be filial to mother in the future. We will leave after picking up mother and we won't spend the night there. It's okay if it's dirty."

Jiang Shan smiled bitterly. If it was that simple, it would have been better. He didn't worry about Yue Er. Yue Er was a simple and easily coaxed person. He could deal with her if he said a few good words. He was worried about his mother. When he got married, the reason his mother didn't come was not because he disliked his mother. Rather, it was because his mother was upset. She thought that he had found a girlfriend without telling here in advance. Even the marriage notification was a surprise to her. So, she was not happy and chose to miss her only son's wedding.

Jiang Shan thought about their upcoming first meeting and felt unease, mixed with sadness and joy.

They drove for more than an hour. When they finally stopped, Jiang Shan took off his seat belt, then leaned over to undo Wei Yue Er's seat belt. He then got out of the car.

Jiang Shan felt very complicated when he saw the familiar trees and plants with several earthen houses standing 10 metres away. People surrounded them when they heard the noises. On one hand, he felt proud returning home. On the other hand, he felt anxiety about seeing his miserable past. Wei Yue Er had never experienced such a scene, so she was a little embarrassed and scared. She walked to Jiang Shan and pulled on his arm.

Jiang Shan took advantage of the situation and hugged her. "Don't be afraid. Let's go home!"

Suddenly, the door creaked and opened. Li Su came out and saw Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er. Her eyes lit up. "Child Shan, you are back!"

Jiang Shan couldn't believe his eyes. He hadn't seen his mother like this for many years. It was like when his dad was still around. His mother used to be like this, with clean and tidy clothes and standing at the door calling him "Child Shan!"

"Mum!" Jiang Shan couldn't help but let go of Wei Yue Er and walked over. He knelt in front of Li Su and hugged her legs, crying.

"Okay, get up quickly. You're so old now. Aren't you afraid of people making fun of you? Your wife is watching!" Li Su helped Jiang Shan up and patted the dust on his knees. With regards to this life, Li Su was satisfied that Jiang Shan was a filial child, which saved her a lot of trouble.

Jiang Shan was agitated for a bit, but then calmed down. He was a little embarrassed after. Fortunately, the surrounding villagers were simple people. When they saw him like this, they had a sense of familiarity rather than feeling like strangers.

"Child Shan, now that you have a bright future, you need to be filial to your mother. It hasn't been easy for your mother these past years."

"Yeah, fortunately Child Shan is capable. From now on, your mother will enjoy this blessing."

Some villagers looked at Wei Yue Er and said, "You are the daughter-in-law. You need to be filial to your mother-in-law. Your mother-in-law has suffered the most all these years. When Child Shan was in college, they couldn't afford tuition. Your mother-in-law went to the nearby town to sell blood several times before she collected enough money for tuition. As a result, your mother-in-law fainted and fell in the ravine several times when she was working. It has not been easy for your mother-in-law!"

The villagers chattered.

Wei Yue Er had never experienced such a thing. She was embarrassed and scared. She almost cried and looked at Jiang Shan for help.

But Jiang Shan didn't pay any attention to her. This was the first time he heard that his mother had sold blood, so he was shocked and angry. "Mum, is what Aunt Zhang said true? Did you really sell blood?"

When Li Su saw this, she frowned and said, "Yes, yes, it's all in the past. Go bring your wife here. She is a city girl. Don't scare her."

Jiang Shan reacted and hurriedly pulled Wei Yue Er, who was at a loss, behind him. "Auntie, my wife is timid, please don't mind her."

The villagers smiled kindly. "Child Shan dotes on his wife! Okay, we won't delay you. Go in."

As soon as Li Su leaves, the village chief would take charge of the several acres of land under the Jiang family's name and rent it out to others. It was enough to give Li Su a symbolic amount of money each year. If she was lucky, she could get more income.

Jiang Shan took Wei Yue Er's hand and followed Li Su through the door.

Jiang Shan almost doubted his eyes. Was this really the house he had lived in for more than 20 years? The difference was enormous!

Although it was run-down, it was clean and tidy. There were some red flowers in plastic bottles on the table.

Wei Yue Er liked flowers and plants. When she saw this, she looked at it with interest.

"That is a wild flower on the mountain. We call it the heavenly maiden flower2. They grow all over the mountain, so I picked some. If it is left in water, it can bloom for several days!" Li Su said with a smile.

"Mum!" Jiang Shan looked at Li Su. He wanted to ask his mum what happened.

"This is the first time you have taken daughter-in-law home. Although our house is run-down, it needs to be clean. There isn't even a place for her to stay, so I just cleaned it. How is it? Did it shame my son?" Li Su whispered.

Jiang Shan's eyes reddened and he shook his head. "No, my mum is the best!" Jiang Shan understood that no matter what she did, everything she did was for him. He must be filial to his mother and not let her suffer anymore.

Wei Yue Er stood a short distance away. When she saw the mother and son with red eyes, her nose stung a little. In fact, on the way here, she was very worried. Her parents and friends had told her all about the relationship between the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law when she mentioned that she was going to take her mother-in-law back to live with them. They mentioned differences in culture and lifestyle. Wei Yue Er was also scared and had thought about not bringing her back.

But when faced with her husband's expectations, she couldn't refuse. She could only bear it.

But now, Wei Yue Er felt that her mother-in-law wasn't as terrible as what she had heard. Maybe they will get along well.

Chapter 23 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 3)

Jiang Shan did not say anything more, so soon they were ready to leave. Li Su merely took the luggage she packed a while ago and left.

Before getting into the car, Jiang Shan looked back and asked, "Mum, have you taken care of the land and house? We won't be coming back."

Li Su never thought of coming back, so she had already dealt with everything. "Don't worry, I entrusted the village chief to help sublet it out. The rent will be used to repair the house. Anyway, it's our old house, so it's good to leave it."

"Yeah, nowadays a house in the rural areas is very popular. A lot of people from the city are going to the countryside. After a few years, city life is tiring. Let's come back and make this house a small villa," said Wei Yue Er with a smile.

Li Su smiled and didn't say anything. There were many people from the city who went to build villas in the countryside, but it depended on the location. If they wanted beautiful scenery and convenient transport, then it was an issue. In this place, transportation is not convenient and the communication also wasn't good. Only fools were willing to live here. Even the young people in the village left. Maybe after 8-10 years this place will be good enough to live in. Then, as Wei Yue Er said, it would be good to build a small bungalow for the elderly.

After a long 30 hour drive, they finally arrived home.

Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er lived in a local, high-end residential area. The house was a duplex. The upstairs and downstairs added up to about 200 square metres. Li Su silently estimated that this house could not have been bought by Jiang Shan, even if he gave up eating and drinking for a lifetime.

"Mum, go take a bath and rest. You can join us at noon and then we can go out to eat at night!" Jiang Shan reached out and took the duffel bag in Li Su's hand. "You can throw these clothes away. Yue Er has prepared some clothes for you in your room. You can make do with them for now and tomorrow we can buy more."

"Tomorrow, I will accompany mum to the shopping centre to purchase some," said Wei Yue Er with a smile.

"Come on. I'm old enough to buy new clothes. I can wear whatever," said Li Su. "Jiang Shan, Yue Er, I have something to say to you."

"Mum, if you have anything to say, you can say it later. Go take a bath first. I will teach you how to use the shower!" Jiang Shan pushed Li Su into the guest room without further explanation. He then looked back to Wei Yue Er and said, "You should also hurry and wash up. I will cook some spaghetti for you."

"Good!" Wei Yue Er was a little disappointed at first because Jiang Shan didn't think of her at first. But, after hearing Jiang Shan's words, Wei Yue Er was happy again and went to their bedroom on the second floor.

She was preparing her bath, pouring in essential oils, when her phone rang. Wei Yue Er saw that it was mother who was calling and picked up. Her mother asked her about the situation.

Wei Yue Er listened. She opened her closet and selected her clothes. "Don't worry, mum. Everything is fine. Although my mother-in-law is a bit poor, she is clean and tidy. She has a temper, yes, but we have been getting along for the last two days. I know, mum. Don't worry. Your daughter is not easily bullied! By the way, I may not go home for dinner these few days. My mother-in-law is here. As her daughter-in-law, I need to accompany her! Mm, okay, when everything is settled, I will arrange for you to meet. Mm, okay, bye-bye."

After hanging up, Wei Yue Er went to take a bath.

Downstairs, Jiang Shan was teaching Li Su how to use the shower, how to flush the toilet, and what was shower gel/shampoo/conditioner. Li Su pretended not to be able to pick it up immediately.

"Okay, mum. Take a shower first. I'll be outside. If you need anything, call me!" Jiang Shan said uneasily.

"Okay, I know. I am your mother so I am smart. I will be able to use it. I said I was okay. You should go up to see Yue Er. Yue Er is a good child. You must not let her down, otherwise, mum can't save you!" Li Su pushed Jiang Shan out.

"Mum, how long has it been? You haven't seen her for long and you're already taking her side." Jiang Shan smiled.

"Your mother is more experienced than you. You can just look at a person's eyes to know if a person is good. Yue Er has clear eyes, is even-tempered, and innocent. If you treat her well, she will also treat you well. You need to know how to be grateful and cherish this happiness, understood?" Li Su asked seriously.

"Yes, I'll listen to you. I was worried about the relationship between a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law. Now that I see my mother, I don't think I need to worry at all," Jiang Shan said with a smile, which then faltered. "Mum, about what you said… I know Yue Er treats me well. I know, and I will treat her well. If there was no Yue Er, or her family, I would not be able to live in such a good house nor would I be able to get promoted so quickly. I know that I should be grateful, but I always feel a little uncomfortable." Jiang Shan still trusted Li Su a lot, so he could still tell Li Su some things that he couldn't say to others.

"Mum knows. Only, Child Jiang, your own strength and your luck are both important to whether a person succeeds. The Wei family gave you a chance, but you also have real skills in order to gain a foothold in the company. So, don't take these things to heart. Work hard and prove your strength. Strive to create more value for the company. As for the gossip, they're just jealous! You can only work harder than them, do better, and use your own strength to stop these people from gossiping!" Li Su said as she patted Jiang Shan on the shoulder.

Jiang Shan was a little surprised.

Li Su said deliberately, "Why? You don't think that your mother is a person who says such things? I was a high school graduate. If it weren't for your grandpa and grandma's early death and your aunt thinking I was a burden so she married me early, I might also have been a college student!"

Jiang Shan smiled. "Yes, mum is right. Mum, take a shower first. I'll leave!"

After closing the door, Jiang Shan raised his head and looked upstairs. What mum said is right. I shouldn't take all the gossip to heart.

Wei Yue Er went downstairs. Jiang Shan was busy in the kitchen while Li Su was cleaning the house. The clothes she changed out of were thrown away by Jiang Shan. Li Su did not care. It was just some old clothes. Upon seeing this, Wei Yue Er hurriedly said, "Mum, sit down and take a break. An auntie will do all these things. Since we went to pick you up, we let the auntie have a holiday. She will be back tomorrow to do these things."

Li Su nodded. "If it's like that, then okay. I won't do it. I wanted to wash the sheets with the quilts, but your washing machine was too advanced and I couldn't use it. I also couldn't find a basin suitable for hand washing."

Wei Yue Er smiled and sat down next to Li Su on the sofa. "Mum, just sit and rest. I will turn on the TV for you and change it to what you want to watch. Then, I'll go help Jiang Shan in the kitchen."

"Okay, go and do your job!" Li Su took the remote and smiled.

In the kitchen, Jiang Shan was cooking noodles. Wei Yue Er hugged him from behind. "Didn't you say you were cooking spaghetti?"

"Your spaghetti has been cooked. My mother is probably not used to eating that, so I made some noodles for her," Jiang Shan said with a smile, then tapped on her nose. "It's the daughter-in-law who can get mother to obey. I spoke to her earlier to try and get her to sit down and rest, but she wouldn't listen."

Wei Yue Er listened and was really happy. She giggled.

"Have you called your parents? They must be worried about you."

"My mother has already called and I told her that I won't be going back for dinner for the next few days."

"Okay. Tomorrow, I will go to work. You can stay with mum at home!" said Jiang Shan as he cooked.

"Ah? Don't you have another day off?" Wei Yue Er was disappointed.

"Dad mentioned that there is the position of deputy manager of the department. I have to behave accordingly and work hard to be worthy of dad's respect. Do you want people to say that your husband is a gigolo1 who relies on nepotism?" Jiang Shan pinched Wei Yue Er's face.

"Who dares to say that? I will tell my dad to fire him!" Wei Yue Er said sternly.

"Okay, don't be angry! I also want to do well and make you proud of me. I want to let others know that you have good insight!" Jiang Shan said with his arms around Wei Yue Er.

"Husband! You are my hero!" Wei Yue Er said as she threw herself into Jiang Shan's arms.

"Okay, the noodles are done. Quickly, get a bowl out," Jiang Shan said with a smile.

"Oh, husband, where are the bowls?"

After Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er came out of the kitchen, they saw Li Su watching TV. They were stunned. Wei Yue Er remembered what her female friends had told her. They said that some mother-in-laws didn't like their daughter-in-law not doing the housework and they don't like their daughter-in-law showing affection with her son. She had forgotten that her mother-in-law was still there, so she acted like a baby with her husband.

Li Su acted like she hadn't heard anything. "Oh, the noodles are ready? Yue Er, put it down. Be careful not to burn your hands! You! How could you let her carry such a hot thing? What if she gets burned?!"

Wei Yue Er was a little moved. "Mum, it's fine. I wore gloves."

Jiang Shan laughed. "Mum, sit down and eat."

After eating, Wei Yue Er took the initiative to clean up the dishes and chopsticks. Li Su stopped her and said, "Quickly, put that down. The detergent will hurt your hands. I'll wash it."

"Mum, it's not an issue. There is a dishwasher. Put the dishes and chopsticks in and then pour in some detergent. Don't wash it yourself," Wei Yue Er said with a smile.

"Dishwasher? There are now machines for washing dishes?" Li Su pretended to be surprised.

Wei Yue Er showed Li Su and Li Su was amazed.

Afterwards, the family of 3 sat on the sofa to chat. Li Su hesitated, then said, "Jiang Shan, Yue Er, there is something I want to discuss with you."

Jiang Shan looked at Li Su. "Mum, feel free to say anything you want!"

"I think that you should rent me a house!" said Li Su.

Jiang Shan straightened abruptly. "Mum, it's fine. Why do you want to move out?"

Wei Yue Er was also surprised. "That's right. Mum, did I do something bad? Just say it. I'll change."

"Oh, no, no. Don't worry. Listen to me carefully!" Li Su smiled helplessly. "I have been thinking about it for a long time. Jiang Shan, you wanted to take mum to the city to live a good life. Mum also wants to live a good life in the city with my son and daughter-in-law. It's just that we are of different generations. Our living habits are different. If we live together long term, then there will definitely be conflicts. Yue Er, you are a good daughter-in-law and mum doesn't want to be alienated from you because of these things. I have also been used to working all my life. If you just let me rest at home, I won't be used to it. I originally thought that I could help you with housework or other tasks to ease your burden if I lived with you, but now it seems like I don't have to do anything. So, I thought that moving out to live would let me find something to do. You two will also have your own space and you can come visit me often. Isn't this a good thing?"

1.(軟飯男) this literally translates to 'soft rice man', but it means a person who takes things easy and doesn't do work, relying on their wives for profit. Funnily enough 'Little White Face' also has the same meaning (for those who read ILPMBBW, I only just found this out).↩

Chapter 24 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 4)

When Li Su finished speaking, Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er were silent. Jiang Shan knew that what mother said was right, but he couldn't accept it. He can't live in a mansion by himself but let his mother rent a house. This won't do.

Wei Yue Er was a little moved. This was definitely the best way to avoid conflicts between the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, but she could not express her opinion.

Li Su smiled and patted Jiang Shan on the shoulder. "Good boy. Mum knows what you are thinking. It's okay. When my son makes money, he can buy a house for mum. Mum believes that my son will be able to do it."

Jiang Shan raised his head and looked at Li Su.

Wei Yue Er said, "Do you want to buy a house? I have money!"

Jiang Shan immediately looked down. Li Su saw that he was feeling heartbroken over this, so she quickly said, "Good boy, I know you have money, but your money is yours. We, the Jiang family, cannot spend money from your wife. You can buy it in the future. That house must be earned rightfully by my son."

Jiang Shan's expression eased a little.

Wei Yue Er was a little aggrieved. "But I am married to the Jiang family. We are husband and wife. My money is my husband's money. Husband, don't you treat me as family?"

Li Su smiled and said, "You silly child. You are a part of our Jiang family. You and your husband are a unit. But, Yue Er, your money is your dowry. You can spend it on Jiang Shan and yourself. There is no reason for the child to spend on their parents to honour them! If that is the case, then what kind of people will we become? I believe that my son has this ability. It is a man's business to support a family. If you have money, you can spend it on yourself or save it for future children."

Jiang Shan nodded. "Trust me. I will use my abilities to let you and mum live a good life."

Wei Yue Er didn't think there was anything wrong with using her money, but when she heard her mother-in-law say this, she looked at her husband's face. She remembered what her friends said before and realised that she might have hit a sore spot for her husband. After all, he is a man. If he always relied on the Wei family, then he would definitely be unhappy.

"Husband, I believe you. I won't say that again," Wei Yue Er apologised sincerely.

Jiang Shan smiled and reached out to pat Wei Yue Er's hair. "It's okay. I know you don't mean anything bad by it." Yes, he knew that Wei Yue Er didn't have bad intentions. She was just too pure for her own good. But, there were times where pressure and speculation from others made it difficult.

Fortunately, his mother understood him.

Jiang Shan looked back at Li Su and smiled.

In the end, Jiang Shan agreed to Li Su's request and rented a one-bedroom house for her in the neighbouring community. It wasn't far away and was merely separated by a road. Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er accompanied Li Su to see it. It was not bad and Li Su was quite satisfied.

Wei Yue Er thought it was too old and that the furniture was old.

"Mum, let's go shopping for some furniture and daily necessities. These are all old. I will buy it for you. As your daughter-in-law, I should be able to at least buy these for mother-in-law!"

Li Su and Jiang Shan looked at each other. Li Su smiled and said, "Okay, you can. But I will choose what to buy!"

"Okay!" As long as she is willing to spend the money. Wei Yue Er held Li Su's arm with joy and smiled.

The three of them drove to the mall. Wei Yue Er chose a high-end mall with many beautiful things inside. Wei Yue Er was very happy and pulled Li Su around. "Mum, look at this table. It looks very good with this tablecloth. You can get a vase to make it beautiful. Mum, let's buy this?" Wei Yue Er looked at Li Su with bright eyes.

When Li Su saw the price, she smiled helplessly. "Didn't you say that I'll choose? This table might be good-looking, but what will this old lady do with such a fancy table? Let me choose!"

Wei Yue Er made a quiet noise of frustration. She lowered her head and said nothing.

Li Su thought that she was a little cute. She smiled and walked over to hold Wei Yue Er's hand. Wei Yue Er was immediately happy and looked at Jiang Shan with a smile.

After visiting most of the stores, Li Su bought a few pieces of furniture that were considered high quality and inexpensive.

Wei Yue Er was clamouring to buy some daily necessities. Li Su dragged her to the supermarket and chose a few things randomly. While paying the bill, Wei Yue Er looked upset. "Mum, isn't It good to go to the mall? The things at the supermarket aren't as good as the ones in the mall."

Li Su smiled helplessly.

The cashier smiled and said, "Auntie, is this your daughter? How filial!"

Li Su laughed when she heard those words. "This is my daughter-in-law and that is my son. Both of them are filial. They want to buy things for me from the mall, but I think the items in the mall are expensive and not easy to use. I must be practical and buy things from the supermarket! It is not easy for young people to make money. As parents, we can't drag them down, don't you agree?"

Wei Yue Er was very happy when she heard her mother-in-law praise her for her filial piety.

Li Su turned around and was about to speak, but she saw Jiang Shan talking to a woman not far away. Li Su was stunned and shouted, "Son!"

Jiang Shan turned around, a little embarrassed, but came over.

Unexpectedly, the woman followed.

"Son, who is she?" Li Su looked at the woman. Was she Jiang Shan's ex-girlfriend, Mei Li, who became his mistress?

"Mum, let me introduce her. This is my classmate from university. When we came back a few days ago, we just happened to meet." Jiang Shan's attitude was very generous. Although Yue Er knew he had an ex-girlfriend, she had not met her.

"Hello, auntie, my name is Mei Li. I am very happy to meet you. I used to hear Jiang Shan mention you." Mei Li looked tender and shy.

The corners of Li Su's mouth twitched. So it was her.

Li Su smiled perfunctorily at Mei Li and turned to look at Jiang Shan. "Yue Er has spent a lot of money today. Mum will treat you for lunch. Let's go to a restaurant. What does Yue Er want to eat? Tell me."

"Mum, I have money. I'll pay," Jiang Shan said with a smile.

"Don't underestimate mum. Mum has money. I kept the money you gave me in the past." What Li Su said was true. She did have 2000 yuan on her. "Don't save money for mum. Mum is very lucky. You are a filial son and I have a daughter-in-law like Yue Er. Mum is happy. Mum is willing to spend money on you."

Jiang Shan laughed and thought for a while. "Well, Yue Er's favourite food is from a private kitchen called Bai Wei Zhai. We should go there for lunch." Food from Bai Wei Zhai was delicious and not too expensive. It was about 1000 yuan for a meal! When he and Yue Er went on dates before, they went there to eat.

Mei Li stood to the side and listened to the conversation. She was still smiling, but she felt intense jealousy in her heart. Sure enough, the mother-in-law knew the power dynamics well. The mother-in-law doesn't need her self-esteem, so she can just lick the boots of her daughter-in-law! Then, there was Jiang Shan, who had been in love with her for 3 years. They ate at roadside stalls while they dated! When was he able to go to such a high-class place like Bai Wei Zhai?!

Sure enough, being rich was different! Back when Mei Li thought about breaking up with Jiang Shan, President Wei had given her half a million. Her heart had hurt. Half a million looked like a lot, but half a year later, she had spent it all unconsciously.

It was said that it is easy to go from a frugal life to a life full of luxury and it was difficult to go from a life of luxury to a life of frugality. This was how Mei Li was now. She was used to enjoying it all and now she had returned to being an ordinary person. She was no longer satisfied, so she came back. She thought that since Jiang Shan was now the son-in-law of a rich man, and that they had been in love for 3 years, it was possible for something to happen. Her three views on life had been ruined by her previous life of luxury. She didn't care about status as long as she had money!

At this moment, Wei Yue Er came out carrying a large bag of items. "Oh, it's so heavy! Husband!"

Mei Li saw Jiang Shan and Li Su go over and take the things in Wei Yue Er's hands. Her eyes were red with jealousy. It seemed that she wouldn't be able to talk much to Jiang Shan this time around. But it didn't matter. She still had a lot of time. She has patience.

"Jiang Shan, if you aren't free today, I'll go back first. I'll see you later," Mei Li whispered.

Wei Yue Er looked at her in surprise. "Husband, who is she?"

"Oh, this is my college classmate. I haven't seen her for a long time, so I just chatted with her," said Jiang Shan. "Okay, then I'll see you another day."

"Okay, I'll go now." Mei Li smiled softly. She turned and walked a few steps before suddenly remembering something. She walked back to Jiang Shan and took out her phone, handing it to him. "I don't have your new number. Do you mind giving me your contact information? Since we are former classmates, I may trouble you in the future," she said while looking at Wei Yue Er.

Wei Yue Er refused to be petty in front of this strange woman. "It's fine. I don't mind."

Jiang Shan wanted to take Mei Li's cell phone, but Li Su stopped him. Li Su looked at Jiang Shan and said seriously, "Son, exchanging contact information with other women in front of your wife is wrong. You are already married, so you need to have a sense of your daily life and personal affairs. Yue Er said that she didn't mind, but she is being generous. Don't be confused."

Afterwards, she looked at Mei Li. "Ms. Mei, if you are really college classmates with my son, how can you not have his contact information? Even if my son changed his number after graduation, isn't there a university group still? If you need anything, you can say it in the group. My son will definitely help. As for getting along privately… Forget it!"

Mei Li's face was a bit ugly. She had known where to find Jiang Shan. The reason she asked for Jiang Shan's contact information in front of Wei Yue Er was purely to see if she could upset Wei Yue Er. She gambled on the fact that Wei Yue Er would surely not expose her jealous side in front of her mother-in-law.

Unexpectedly, the one who opposed it wasn't Wei Yue Er, it was Jiang Shan's mother! This made Mei Li very embarrassed.

As Jiang Shan was Mei Li's lover for 3 years, when he saw her embarrassment, he said, "Mum is right. I will pay attention next time. Mei Li, I am still in the university group. If you have something to ask me, you can ask me through the group. I will help you if I can. It's late. Mum, didn't you invite Yue Er to Bai Wei Zhai for lunch? Let's go or we won't be able to get a seat." He then dragged Wei Yue Er and Li Su out.

Chapter 25 – My Son Is a Phoenix Man (part 5)

Wei Yue Er didn't notice the faint disturbance just now. She only heard that her mother-in-law wanted to invite her to dinner. She thought that this was her mother-in-law approving of her and she was very excited. But, after she thought about it for a while, her mother-in-law might not have money. So, she hesitated and said, "Bai Wei Zhai is expensive. Why don't we buy some vegetables and make lunch?"

When Jiang Shan heard her words, it was like he fell in love with her for the first time once again. He couldn't help but smile. Yue Er's family was wealthy. A single bag for her cost more than 100,000 yuan. How would Bai Wei Zhai be too expensive?

Li Su also smiled. "Good child. I know that you want to save money for mum, but the food I can make is not filling enough, let alone tasty enough. As for Jiang Shan, I guess he can, at most, cook noodles or something. You spent so much money on your mother's behalf, so it's only right for me to buy you a meal."

Wei Yue Er smiled and held Li Su's arm. "Thank you, mum. You are so good to me!"

Jiang Shan smiled and looked at them tenderly. He followed them with his hands in his pockets, completely forgetting about Mei Li.

Mei Li watched the family of 3 walk away until they disappeared from her sight. She did not leave for a long time.

When they arrived at Bai Wei Zhai, Wei Yue Er ordered some food. She ended up ordering 5 main dishes, a soup, and some desserts. She kept the price within 1000 yuan and quietly went to the front desk to pay 800 yuan in advance so that the desk would only charge 200 yuan when the time comes.

Li Su quietly pulled Jiang Shan aside to ask him about Mei Li.

Jiang Shan hesitated for a moment before he told her the truth.

"Mei Li is my ex-girlfriend. If Yue Er hadn't shown up, I might have married her. Later, I accidentally rescued Yue Er and she fell in love with me. The Wei family secretly found Mei Li and gave her some money. Mei Li then took the initiative to break up with me. We never met after. Today is the first time we met after the break up. Mum, there is nothing between Mei Li and I!" said Jiang Shan.

"It's not good! If she really has you in her heart, then she won't break up with you no matter how much money she has been given. This shows that she is not a good person. In the future, you should stay away from her," said Li Su disdainfully.

"Mum, Mei Li isn't such a person. She is also thinking about my future. Besides, she has a heavy burden to deal with at home. She has a younger brother and her parents think that men are superior to women," Jiang Shan said, defending Mei Li.

"My stupid son… Did you not see how she was dressed today? It was the same as Yue Er. What is Yue Er's family background and what is Mei Li's? Can you still believe that she spent all her money on her family? If you don't believe it, check it out yourself and see where she spent her money!" Li Su frowned.

Jiang Shan still wanted to explain, but Wei Yue Er opened the door and entered. The mother and son changed the subject.

When they went to pay the bill after dinner, the attendant told them that it only cost 200 yuan. Li Su and Jiang Shan were both stunned, then laughed as they saw Wei Yue Er try and pretend to be calm. Li Su took out 200 yuan to pay the bill and then quietly said to Jiang Shan, "Look at your wife. She is very cute!"

Jiang Shan couldn't help but smile. She was so silly and cute.

Afterwards, Jiang Shan went back to work at the company. Li Su spent some time cleaning up the house. Wei Yue Er was supposed to come and help, but Li Su persuaded her to go back. Wei Yue Er then went home to chat with her mother.

When Wei Yue Er returned, her mother was overjoyed. Her mother took her to sit down and then asked questions. After listening to her daughter talk about the past few days, Mother Wei was relieved. "That's good. Your father and I were worried. We worried about Jiang Shan's mother. A rural woman who has never read a book and is therefore illiterate, along with being aggressive… Widowed early and guarding her son until he grows up… Her heart could have been distorted and she could have seen you in a bad light. Your dad and I were afraid that your mother-in-law would be like this. After hearing what you have to say about her, your mother-in-law sounds sensible, so we are relieved."

Wei Yue Er smiled and leaned against Mother Wei. "I also think that my mother-in-law is pretty good. I bought some things for her yesterday and she insisted on inviting me to eat at Bai Wei Zhai. I thought, how can I let my mother-in-law spend this kind of money? How much money does she have? But, in the end, it was mother-in-law's good intentions, so I went to the front desk to pay eight hundred yuan in advance and let my mother-in-law pay the remaining two hundred."

Mother Wei looked at Wei Yue Er in approval. "Good, my daughter has a brain! You fulfilled your mother-in-law's wishes and saved her face. Although your mother-in-law doesn't know it, Jiang Shan surely knows and accepts your love."

Wei Yue Er smiled, "I am smart!"

Mother Wei nodded. "Mm, my daughter is really smart. If mother-in-law is here, we should invite her to dinner. Your dad is busy with his business recently, so he won't have free time for a while. Go back and talk to your mother-in-law. We will wait until this busy period is over, then we will invite her over."

"Okay, I know. By the way, mum, do you still have the bird's nest1 at home? I will bring some back for my mother-in-law, along with a few of your cosmetics and other small items. I can give mother-in-law a set. And maybe the clothes you don't wear. No, wait, there's no need. My mother-in-law is thinner than you," Wei Yue Er said as she stood up.

Mother Wei didn't know what to think upon hearing her daughter's words. "This is really selfless to a fault! Either you won't return, or if you do, you'll just move to your in-laws as soon as you do." Even though she complained about her daughter, Mother Wei watched Wei Yue Er with a smile.

A while later, Li Su looked at Wei Yue Er with a similar expression as she watched Wei Yue Er carrying a lot of things. Wei Yue Er said, "Mum, I didn't buy this. These have all been gifted by others. By the way, mum, my mum said that dad is busy with his business recently and does not have the time to entertain you. We will ask you to come over when the busy period is over."

"Work is important. By the way, will Jiang Shan be coming back for dinner tonight?" Li Su asked.

Wei Yue Er shook her head. "I just called him and he said he has to work overtime. Let me accompany you out for dinner."

Li Su thought about it for a while. "Why don't we buy something and go to the company to have dinner with him?"

Wei Yue Er nodded. "Okay!"

Wei Yue Er and Li Su went to Bai Wei Zhai to take away a few dishes Jiang Shan liked. Just as they were about to leave, Li Su stopped her and said, "Isn't your dad also busy at the company? Did you pack a few dishes for your dad?"

Wei Yue Er was shocked and smiled awkwardly. "Mum is right." Then, she quickly packed a few dishes her father liked. They went to the company together.

When they arrived, Wei Yue Er put the meal she packed for her dad at the front desk. "This is a meal for my dad. Find someone to send it to my dad."

After, she pulled Li Su onto the elevator and went to the department Jiang Shan worked in.

As a result, when they went in, they saw Jiang Shan talking and laughing with a woman.

Wei Yue Er didn't think that there was anything wrong. She also knew who the woman was. She was a colleague from Jiang Shan's department. But, Li Su felt that something was wrong. The woman was too close, sitting at an intimate distance. This wasn't good.

Wei Yue Er shouted, "Husband!"

Jiang Shan raised his head and saw Li Su and Wei Yue Er. He and his female colleague moved away from each other subconsciously.

"Yue Er is here. Ah, how sweet. Jiang has worked overtime and hasn't eaten dinner, so you brought dinner here."

Jiang Shan walked up to Wei Yue Er and Li Su. He took the box from their hands. "Let's go to the break room."

Wei Yue Er smiled and nodded at his female colleague in greeting. Then, she went with Jiang Shan.

In the break room, Jiang Shan looked at the delicious food in front of him and smiled. "Mum, Yue Er, you should eat too." After he took two bites, Jiang Shan remembered something. "Did you bring some for your dad?" Wei Yue Er had given him food before, but had forgotten her father's share. Father Wei had not been happy about that.

Wei Yue Er was a little embarrassed. "Mum reminded me. I let the front desk take it."

Jiang Shan smiled helplessly after hearing that. "You! It seems that it will be better to have a boy in the future."

"Why? Didn't you say you wanted a daughter before?" Wei Yue Er didn't understand why the topic shifted to this again.

Li Su couldn't stand it anymore. "Silly child! Your man is making fun of you being a woman!"

Wei Yue Er blushed and reluctantly reached out to hit Jiang Shan. Jiang Shan hurriedly stood up and dodged. Wei Yue Er, who had her chopsticks in one hand, ran after him.

Jiang Shan dodged and said, "Hey, be careful holding those chopsticks. You might poke yourself!"

Outside the door, Wei Ding Shan stood blankly. The secretary, who stood behind him, didn't know what was wrong with President Wei, and quietly reminded him, "Mr. Wei, do you want to go in?"

Wei Ding Shan shook his head. "Forget it. Let's go back to the office!" He had been very excited to receive his daughter's loving dinner for the first time. He thought that his daughter was finally thinking of her father. But, he then learned that his daughter had personally delivered food to his son-in-law. Wei Ding Shan was jealous and wanted to come over and criticise his daughter.

He then saw this scene and Wei Ding Shan didn't want to enter the room. Wei Ding Shan joined the army at 16 and retired when he was 36. After that, he founded this company. When he was young, he was busy with his career and thus ignored his family. It was only when he got older did he realise the value of family. But, he wasn't present while his daughter was growing up, resulting in he and his daughter not being very close.

He didn't know how to express his love for his daughter, so he could only do his best to give her the best.

After learning that her daughter was obsessed with Jiang Shan and underwent heartbreak, Wei Ding Shan felt sorry for his daughter and bought the other woman with half a million, asking her to break up with Jiang Shan. Sure enough, it didn't take long before Jiang Shan and Yue Er started dating and then got married.

It's just that Wei Ding Shan had felt mixed emotions. He wasn't sure if this was the right or wrong thing to do. But, he didn't want to see his daughter sad.

It seemed that it had been the right thing to do. Yue Er was very happy now.

Chapter 26 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 6)

The company was busy recently. After dinner, Jiang Shan asked a driver to send Li Su and Wei Yue Er home. He said that he had to work overtime and that he would definitely return before 10 at the latest.

Wei Yue Er nodded. She was not a hypocritical person. She knew that Jiang Shan was busy with work, so she wouldn't act like a baby and ask him to accompany her home. She will go back obediently.

It was Li Su who looked thoughtful. Later, she inquired secretly. The woman had returned from studying abroad and was known for being unrestrained in the company. Li Su saw that the woman made ambiguous contact with any man. At least it wasn't initiated by Jiang Shan.

But Li Su also discovered some problems and she planned to talk to Wei Yue Er.

On the way back, Li Su thought for a bit before she said, "Yue Er, I don't think it is good for you to be at home all day long. Why don't you find something to do?"

Wei Yue Er smiled. "I was thinking I should as well. I was working at the company before, but when I was buying my dowry with my mother before the marriage, I got into a car accident and injured my leg. After that, I stayed home to recover. Sometimes, I find it quite boring."

Li Su nodded. "It's just work. There isn't a need to make a lot of money. It's mainly just to find something to do. Moreover, if you go to work, can't you go home with Jiang Shan every day? If you see each other every day, you'll have a common topic to talk about."

Wei Yue Er's eyes lit up, obviously thinking about how sweet it would be. "Mum, you are right. I will go back to work tomorrow!"

Li Su smiled.

That night, Wei Yue Er talked to Wei Ding Shan about returning to work. Wei Ding Shan was naturally in favour of her decision and had nothing else to say. Her mother-in-law was right. When two people went to work together, they could talk about the same topic. This way, the distance between them will not grow. It was a good idea, so he had nothing to say.

At breakfast the next day, Jiang Shan was slightly stunned that Wei Yue Er was going back to work. He didn't mind Wei Yue Er going back to work at the company so she had something to do. It saved her from thinking too much.

Today, Jiang Shan listened to his mother and investigated Mei Li, only to find out that President Wei had given Mei Li 500,000 yuan instead of the 200,000 yuan Mei Li had told him. Mei Li didn't send a single cent of the 500,00 yuan back to her family, but spent it on herself.

During this period, she talked to a boyfriend. She was free to do as she liked, and it wasn't like she was a mistress. In the past few months, she had been drinking. This time, she came back to look for him because her money had run out and her boyfriend had left her. She had no financial resources, so she turned to find him.

When he saw the results of his investigation, Jiang Shan couldn't believe it. The gentle, kind, diligent, and pure Mei Li in his memory had been reduced to this. Both he and Mei Li were kids who had come from poor mountain villages. They had the same background and the same life experience, which was what brought them together.

Mei Li was different from him. His mother only had one child, so his mother worked hard for him. Mei Li had brothers and sisters, and her parents preferred sons over daughters, making their daughters support their sons. Mei Li's two older sisters had never studied before and her parents had married them off to old men in the next village. Her parents received a lot of money during the wedding period. This money was used for her younger brother's studies. If it weren't for Mei Li's good grades and the class teacher going to visit Mei Li at home, then Mei Li would not have been able to escape the same fate as her sisters.

The family didn't pay a single cent for Mei Li's college tuition fees. It was her head teacher who helped Mei Li apply for a student loan. She earned her living expenses by working part-time.

Jiang Shan remembered that they only fell in love at that time. He bought her a silver ring with his part-time salary. She cried and laughed happily.

How long did it take a person to degenerate to this? When he compared the two of them, Jiang Shan felt that Wei Yue Er was more precious.

Jiang Shan sighed. He picked up his phone and rejected Mei Li's friend request on the W app. Mei Li broke up with him for money. He didn't blame her, but she shouldn't deceive him. What he said was for the sake of his future. She said that it was for the sake of his future. She said that her family needed this money.

His mum is right. Yue Er is a good girl. He should cherish her and not let her down.

After eating, Jiang Shan drove to work with Wei Yue Er.

When they got off work, Jiang Shan and Wei Yue Er invited Li Su out for dinner. At the table, Wei Yue Er talked about her experience in the company with joy. When Li Su and Jiang Shan saw her happy, they both smiled.

Jiang Shan put a bowl of cleaned fish in front of Li Su, and Li Su smiled.

Jiang Shan then picked up a bowl of cleaned fish and placed it in front of Wei Yue Er. "Hurry up and eat it while it is hot."

Wei Yue Er smiled sweetly. "Thank you, husband."

After the family finished dinner, they planned to go shopping nearby. Wei Yue Er said that she would like to buy some clothes for Li Su, so she took them to the nearby shopping centre.

Who knew that, as soon as they left, they saw Mei Li standing there. Li Su said in a disgusted voice, "Son, isn't this your classmate? Who is she waiting for? Is she waiting for you? The night is cold and she is wearing a white skirt. It's autumn. How is she not cold?" She took off her coat and walked towards Mei Li.

"Good child, don't you have money to buy clothes? Auntie's clothes are new and just for my upper body. I will lend them to you. There's no need to pay me back!" She then put the coat on Mei Li.

Mei Li's painstaking efforts to create a charming image was instantly destroyed.

Jiang Shan couldn't help but laugh out loud.

Wei Yue Er yelled, "Husband!" How could he laugh at a girl? Although, it was ridiculous.

Jiang Shan stopped laughing and looked at Mei Li seriously. "Mei Li, are you waiting for me?"

Mei Li was incredibly annoyed. Why did this old lady hate her so much?! Who wants to wear her clothes?! They smell! But, in front of Jiang Shan, Mei Li didn't dare to show her dislike for Li Su, so she could only endure this treatment.

"Jiang Shan, why didn't you agree to the friend request I sent you? There are some things that I don't want to mention in the group chat. I want to message it to you privately. Your W ID is associated with your previous number, so I can only find you like this."

"Sorry, I'm already married. I don't accept applications from friends of the opposite gender. This is the most basic respect for my wife." Jiang Shan looked at Wei Yue Er, whose eyes suddenly brightened because of his words. He smiled and held her hand.

Wei Yue Er felt very sweet in her heart. No woman liked to see her husband getting close to other women, and she was no exception. But, she could not express her dissatisfaction because she was afraid that Jiang Shan would think she was unreasonable and not generous. But now that Jiang Shan took the initiative to say such a thing, she was happy.

Mei Li paled and she became more charming in the autumn wind. Mei Li already looked good. She had a pitiful loving face and so many onlookers could not help but feel sympathy for her when they saw her.

When Li Su saw this, she laughed. "Mei Li? What's wrong? You can just say it. There's no need for this. My son just doesn't add the opposite gender as his friend. After all, my son is a married man. There are certain things that should be done. If you have any difficulties, just say it. As classmates, my son will definitely help you."

At this time, a clear female voice called out from the crowd, "What a pity. You know that someone has a wife and you still want to add him in private. This type of green tea bitch1 will lie to stupid men. If you think she is pitiful, then you can help her. Bye!"

Then, a girl left and her boyfriend hurriedly followed after her while begging for mercy. "I'm sorry, I was wrong. I just said it casually. I can delete all the other women on the W app, except for my mother, aunts, and my sister, okay?"

Mei Li paled when she heard the woman say 'green tea bitch'. She lowered her head and bit her lip, her body shaking. "I'm sorry I disturbed you. I have something to do. I'll go now." She pulled the coat off and shoved it into Li Su's hands before turning and leaving.

Li Su grabbed her and said, "Don't go, girl. If you have anything to say, it's better to make it clear in front of my daughter-in-law and I. Don't go looking for my son without our knowledge. What did you want to say? Tell me about what difficulties you have and we will help you if we can."

Mei Li knew that if she didn't say anything, she wouldn't be able to leave. She could only come up with a reason. "My brother is going to get married and his wife wants one hundred and eighty thousand yuan as a gift. My parents forced me to pay the money, saying that if I didn't, then they would marry me off to the old man in the village."

When she said this, she attracted the sympathy of many men, many of which took out their wallets so they could generously donate.

Li Su smiled. "Girl, so you are here to borrow money from my son? How much do you want to borrow? Just so you know, my son promised to buy me a house in this city, so he is now saving money. He can't give too much. As you two are classmates, I'll lend you five thousand yuan. What's your bank account number?"

Mei Li bit her lip. "I didn't mean that."

Li Su refused to give up. "Then what do you mean? Your parents have never been out of the village before. How do they have the ability to come here and force you to go back to get married? You are someone with higher education. You should know how to take legal action to protect yourself. If you can't, then call the police."

Mei Li raised her head and stared at Li Su.

Jiang Shan looked at Mei Li a bit unkindly. He walked over and pulled Li Su behind him. "Mei Li, everyone was a classmate. If what you say is true, then I can help you in the group. Let everyone help you. Since we were classmates, then I can help you. That's all though." After he finished speaking, he fished his wallet out. He took some money from his wallet and shoved it into Mei Li's hands.

Mei Li's lips trembled and she looked at Jiang Shan incredulously. "Jiang Shan, do you know that's not what I mean?" She just wanted to find a reason to contact Jiang Shan again.

(綠茶婊) green tea bitch – a stereotype of women who pretend to be innocent/harmless/pure, but she is actually ambitious and would sell her soul for money. There are apparently a lot of other stereotypes too, like milk tea/black coffee/etc. If you're interested, you can look it up.

Chapter 27 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 7)

Now, even Wei Yue Er thought that there was something wrong. She pulled at Jiang Shan. "Then, what do you mean? Mei Li, don't you think that it is bad to look at someone else's husband so pitifully?"

Mei Li ignored Wei Yue Er and only looked at Jiang Shan. "Jiang Shan, I really had no choice but to come to you. I didn't expect that you have changed and have become so cold and ruthless. It seems like I am bothering you. Goodbye!" She made a mistake today. That Jiang Shan was so fucking hard to deal with. She should look for him in private. That way, things wouldn't have turned out like this. Damn it!

After she finished speaking, she turned to leave.

Li Su stopped her. "Girl, I don't like what you said. While I doubt the authenticity of your words, let's give you the benefit of the doubt here. Even if what you said is true, one hundred and eighty thousand yuan is a large amount. It is more than my son's yearly salary. Why are you desperate? Does my son have a duty to lend you one hundred and eighty thousand yuan?! Does he have money to burn?1 My son is married now. His responsibility is to his wife and family. He doesn't have that much money, but even if he did, he would not have this obligation! Is it ruthless to not lend you money? You're taking this for granted! Don't say that you are just ordinary classmates. Even if you were dating, my son has no obligation to you!"

Li Su's words made sense to all of the onlookers. Yes, even if they were lovers or related, let alone just classmates, 180000 yuan was a lot. This wasn't appropriate!

"Auntie is right. I can't understand you green tea bitches, sending such amorous glances. How heartless! Quit it!" said one girl in the crowd disdainfully.

"She really has no shame!"

Mei Li's face was white. She bit her lip and stared at Li Su viciously. "Don't force me!"

"How did I force you? Everyone saw it clearly. I didn't do anything," Li Su said indifferently.

The people pointing at Mei Li made her very embarrassed. Her expression changed and she finally lowered her head without a word and ran away. As there was no longer a show to watch, the onlookers dispersed.

Li Su looked at Mei Li's retreating form and shook her head. "This girl is really full of lies. Even if what she said was true, can't she just do something about it? Yue Er, I remember that when we met last time, you had the same bag as she had. How much is it?"

Wei Yue Er thought about it seriously. "That day, she wore Chanel. Although it isn't from a new season, it is more than ten thousand. The bag is from LV, which costs ten to twenty thousand. The shoes are Dior and are probably in the ten thousands. Oh, the dress she wore today is also from Chanel. Although it looks rather simple, it is also probably in the ten thousands."

Jiang Shan was dumbfounded. How could he not have noticed?

"These clothes and shoes alone are worth tens of thousands. Since she is so short on money, why doesn't she just sell them and get some money back? See? She has bad intentions and wants to deceive men who don't know anything! You better stay away from her in the future," said Li Su.

"Maybe they are imitations," Jiang Shan said awkwardly, although he knew it was unlikely.

"How can it be? I can tell at a glance whether it is real or an imitation. It is definitely real," Wei Yue Er said firmly. "Listen to mum. I also think she has ulterior motives. Husband, you aren't allowed to talk to her!"

"Okay, I'll listen to you and ignore her!" Jiang Shan smiled and put his arms around Wei Yue Er. "Let's go. Didn't you want to buy clothes for mum?"

Wei Yue Er snorted and broke away from Jiang Shan. She ran over to take Li Su's hand and said sweetly, "Mum, let's go."

Jiang Shan smiled helplessly and followed closely.

In fact, Mei Li didn't go far. She was hiding behind a big tree and watching them with hatred! That damn old woman flattered Wei Yue Er to no end, but showed such an attitude towards her! Wasn't it because the Wei family was powerful?

"One day, one day!" Mei Li dug her nails into the tree bark. The humiliation and anger in her heart made her able to ignore the pain. By the time she realised it, the manicure she spent hundreds of yuan on had been ruined.

Mei Li looked at her hands in distress. No, she couldn't let this go. She would definitely get revenge for the humiliation she suffered today. She originally only wanted to be a hidden mistress with no worries, but now she had changed her mind. Wei Yue Er, aren't you only arrogant because you are rich and powerful? I want to take everything from you! I want to watch you cry with a big smile!

As for that old witch, what could she do? After being with Jiang Shan for 3 years, she knew how deeply filial he was. His mother was indispensable in getting him to the top smoothly. Hmph, when her luck changes, she will deal with her!

Mei Li calmed down and began to think about what to do next. What she had said before was partially true. Her brother was about to get married and the woman did ask for a bride price of 180000 yuan. But, since she had gone to university, she had cut all contact with her family. Her parents couldn't get money from her sisters, so now they were looking for her crazily! Her fellow villagers had informed her of this. She just mentioned this reason to Jiang Shan before to win sympathy from him.

She would lie low for now.

Mei Li believed that, as long as she waited patiently, she could find an opportunity one day. Would there be true love between a peacock girl and a phoenix man? Even if there was, it could be worn down by the trivialities of life. Wei Yue Er was a lady from a wealthy family. She was charming and not easy to raise. If she couldn't give birth or if she gave birth to a daughter, she didn't believe that the old witch wouldn't react at all! It was just natural that the Chinese favoured sons over daughters, especially people from rural areas. Mei Li suffered from this mindset. She believed that the widowed old witch would be the same as her parents. When that time came, she would have her chance!

Before that time, she would wait patiently.

Mei Li thought of this and sighed. It seemed that she had to sell something and then find a place to settle down. It wasn't easy to stay at a hotel. She needed to find a job. Maybe she could go to the Wei family and find work. It would be more convenient if she was near them when the time came.

Mei Li smiled triumphantly when she thought of this before she walked away briskly.

Jiang Shan finally made Wei Yue Er laugh. After this, Wei Yue Er leaned into Jiang Shan's arms. "Husband, I am so happy now. I have a husband who loves me and a mother-in-law who loves and protects me. I hope we can continue to be happy. Don't you also think so?"

Jiang Shan gently placed a kiss on her cheek. "We will always be happy. I promise!" In fact, he had thought that Yue Er was too squeamish before and that his mother wouldn't like her. He worried that his mother wouldn't get along with her and that he would be embarrassed by this. Unexpectedly, his mother liked Yue Er a lot and Yue Er was so sensible and filial.

Jiang Shan felt that this current situation was very good. He liked it a lot.

"Husband, when the tender has been completed, my mother said that she would like to invite us to her house. We can take a few days off and take mum out for a trip. Maybe we can go to Hainan and see the ocean. Mum must have never seen the ocean! How does this sound?" Wei Yue Er raised her head and said excitedly.

"Okay, I'll listen to you." Jiang Shan touched Wei Yue Er's head and lifted up the quilt. "You should stay here. I'll get your bath water ready."

Wei Yue Er nestled in the quilt. "Mm, okay. Thank you, husband."

When Wei Yue Er came out of the bathroom, Jiang Shan had changed the sheets and duvets. When he saw her come out, he waved. "It's getting late. Let's go to bed!"

Wei Yue Er threw herself on the bed. "Husband, I am so happy!"

Jiang Shan looked at her and smiled.

At this time, Li Su was sitting on the sofa and watching TV. She had some roast meat and a few bottles of beer in front of her. She felt there was nothing wrong with acting like an old woman. She didn't have to deal with a period. She didn't have to go to work from 9 to 5. She didn't need to engage in scheming in a career. She could eat and drink and dance since she had a lot of free time. This was very comfortable! She had received professional dance training. On the first day she had moved into the community, she had conquered the men and women in the surrounding communities with her dance skills. They clamoured to worship her as a teacher.

Of course, a happy life meant that one would have a filial son.

Li Su proudly took a sip of her beer and then took a bite of her mutton skewers. She smiled.

A week later, the tender had finished. The Wei family successfully won the project and they could now meet with the in-laws. Wei Ding Shan wanted to set up a table at a hotel, but Mother Wei thought that eating at home would be better.

"I've heard Yue Er talk about mother's temperament. She is very easy-going and understands things well. I'm so thankful that Yue Er has such a mother-in-law!" Mother Wei said.

Wei Ding Shan was busy with company affairs so he didn't know much about this.

Mother Wei was proud of her daughter's knowledge about things pertaining to her relationship. "Isn't Jiang Shan's ex-girlfriend called Mei something? Didn't you give her half a million to send her away? They are now back again. It is likely she has spent all the money. Fortunately, her mother-in-law is so powerful and stood by Yue Er's side. She sent that woman away with a few words."

"Does Yue Er know?" Wei Ding Shan frowned. He didn't hesitate to use money to send that woman away, but he was worried that his daughter would know about it and blame him for bullying people. Therefore, he kept the matter of Mei Li a secret from Wei Yue Er. He only told her that Mei Li had broken up by herself.

"Yue Er doesn't know. According to my intuition, mother-in-law should know. She knows, and yet she is standing by Yue Er. Because of this, I will look after her!" said Mother Wei.

Wei Ding Shan was relieved and leaned back against the sofa. "What is this? You can only see people's hearts over time. You need to take time to analyse these things!"

1. (錢是大風刮來) this literally translates to 'money being blown by the wind'.↩

Chapter 28 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 8)

Li Su wore the new clothes Wei Yue Er bought for her and stood in front of the mirror to take a photo. "Does it look good? Is it too expensive?" Although Li Su didn't like such colourful clothes, they were fashionable for an old lady.

Wei Yue Er shook her head earnestly. "Why do you think so? It looks good. Husband, don't you agree?"

Jiang Shan nodded while smiling. "Mm, it looks good and energetic."

The only thing Li Su was dissatisfied about the original body was that the original was too careless in taking care of herself. She was only in her 50s, but looked like she was older than 60. When she stood next to Jiang Shan, they didn't look like a mother and her son, but rather a grandma and her grandson.

With a situation like this, there was no way to take care of her skin.

At least it was different now. Wei Yue Er bought her a lot of skin care products. She didn't have to use them every night. She could watch TV and apply the facial mask. Although the effect wasn't immediately obvious, it was much better than what it used to be.

"Mm, let's go! By the way, don't forget to bring your things. Although the in-laws might be well-off, but we also need to do our part!" said Li Su.

Wei Yue Er affectionately took Li Su's arm. Jiang Shan resignedly carried the items and followed behind.

After driving to the Wei family's house, Wei Ding Shan and Mother Wei stood at the door and greeted them excitedly when they saw their car arriving.

After Wei Yue Er got out of the car, she immediately rushed over to Mother Wei. "Mother!"

Mother Wei hugged Wei Yue Er and lightly smacked Wei Yue Er. "How old are you? You're acting like a child." Then, she smiled and said to Li Su, "I've let my in-laws see something laughable. My daughter is too excitable."

Li Su smiled and said, "I like Yue Er. She is simple and straightforward and not pretentious at all. Her temperament is to my liking."

Wei Ding Shan stood aside and nodded at Jiang Shan. "Let's go in and talk."

Everyone sat down on the sofa. Mother Wei took Wei Yue Er's hand and checked her daughter's complexion. Although she often video called her daughter and knew that she was doing well, she was relieved when she finally saw her in person.

"My daughter has been spoiled by me. I always worry about her. I thought that if she got married like this, she would get rejected by her in-laws. Who would have thought that she would have met you, mother-in-law. Mother-in-law is generous and righteous, so you can tolerate Yue Er. It is Yue Er's blessing to have a mother-in-law like you!" Mother Wei couldn't help but praise Li Su.

Li Su smiled. In her memory, Mother and Father Wei had said they wanted to have a meal together, but because of the unpleasant first meeting between the original Li Su and Wei Yue Er, the original Li Su thought that the Wei family looked down on others and she didn't want to contact the Wei family at all. Jiang Shan was also dissatisfied with Wei Yue Er's attitude and thought that Li Su would be unhappy at the Wei family's house, so he did not agree to the meeting.

"I am a boorish person who doesn't know much, no matter what my in-laws say. However, Yue Er has married my son and into the Jiang family. We are all family. Naturally, I would want to be good to her. If I am not good to her, then who am I supposed to be good to? Other women?" Li Su said deliberately in a loud voice.

Mother Wei thought that her words were rough, but she meant well. Mother-in-law did come from the countryside.

"You're right. We are all a family, so let's not be polite. Old Wei wanted to eat out, but I said that it was too unfamiliar. It is easier to eat at home," said Mother Wei with a smile. "I don't know what mother-in-law likes to eat. I ordered some dishes from a restaurant. Mother-in-law, let's eat while it's hot!"

"Mother-in-law is right. If our families have been joined through marriage, then family doesn't need to be too polite," Li Su said with a smile.

At the dinner table, Wei Ding Shan and Mother Wei had been observing Li Su. Although she had a rural background, her etiquette at the table was good and she could use chopsticks well. As for their son-in-law, Jiang Shan, he was good at taking care of people. He peeled and deboned the food, so he was very thoughtful. But, the order in which he did it… First it was for his mother, then for Yue Er, then finally for them.

Wei Ding Shan and Mother Wei were a little dissatisfied with this. Filial piety was good, but if you were a momma's boy who blindly listened to his mother, then this wasn't good. However, they saw how happy their daughter was. Mother-in-law would also pick up vegetables from her daughter's favourite dishes from time to time and give them to her daughter. Wei Ding Shan and Mother Wei felt better about the situation.

After eating, an auntie brought 3 bowls of bird's nest and two bowls of Chinese caterpillar fungus1. Li Su laughed when she saw it. "Yue Er also gave me some of this bird's nest. I told her that I wouldn't use it and it would be a waste to give it to me. Besides, I am getting older. What would I do with this? The young people should eat this instead since they work hard."

She then pushed the bird's nest to Wei Yue Er.

Wei Yue Er smiled. "Mum, I also have a bowl. You can eat it as well. This is good for your health. I forgot that you don't know how to make this. I can ask my aunt to prepare some and have it sent to you every day."

Li Su smiled. "I'm getting old. What use is this? It's better for you to eat more."

Jiang Shan also tried persuading her. "Mum, the bird's nest is nourishing. While it isn't good to eat too much, having a bowl a day is fine. You can take this bowl."

Li Su took it and ate it. She really didn't think that the bird's nest was delicious, but it was nourishing.

Mother Wei smiled when she saw this. "Mother-in-law, Yue Er told me that you are renting a place. It is inconvenient for you to live alone. Why don't you live with the children? It will be lively."

"Well, we are from different generations, so our habits are different. For example, on weekends, young people like to sleep late. I am used to getting up early and sleeping early. Living together would be a bit inconvenient. Besides, I also want to give them space so that I can hug my grandson earlier!" Li Su laughed.

Mother Wei also laughed. "Mother-in-law has the same thoughts as me. I am also afraid of disturbing the young couple and I want to hug my grandson earlier."

Wei Ding Shan suddenly smiled and asked, "Does mother-in-law like grandsons or granddaughters?"

Li Su was stunned, then smiled. "Of course I like grandsons, but if Yue Er gives me a beautiful granddaughter like her, I will like her too! Don't worry, I don't favour sons over daughters. All grandchildren are good. It's just, I thought it would be better to have a boy since the world is unfair to girls. When I was dancing in the square a few days ago, I heard an older sister say that a girl in the neighbouring city went to a friend's birthday party. She took a car there and was raped and killed by the driver! That girl was only in her early twenties, the prime time of her youth. Her family must be so sad. Another girl had her throat cut out by her beast of an ex-boyfriend. Such a mess! These beasts are inferior. If Yue Er gave birth to a girl, how much would you have to worry about? I get scared thinking about it!"

Mother Wei had a sympathetic expression. "Mother-in-law is right. When I had Yue Er, I was terrified. If Yue Er hadn't met Jiang Shan, I…" Mother Wei patted her chest and looked a bit scared.

"Yeah, in this day and age, people have worse morals. There are too many animals! Raising a daughter is so worrying. You don't have to worry about boys. You just need to give them something to eat and drink, then raise them as you want," said Li Su.

Wei Ding Shan agreed. Yue Er was his heart and he would hate it if she suffered at all.

Jiang Shan held Wei Yue Er's hand. If he had a daughter, would he worry that much? So, he should have a son!

Wei Yue Er said timidly, "Mum, what if I give birth to a daughter?"

Li Su couldn't help but laugh. "What else can you do? You can't stuff it back. It might be up to God if you have a son or daughter, but they will still be your responsibility!"

Wei Yue Er smiled, embarrassed. "My… My umm… is a few days late. I don't know if it will come. I was a little worried when mum said that just now. If I have a daughter and someone bullies her…"

"No, Yue Er, what did you just say?" Mother Wei interrupted Wei Yue Er.

"I said that I was worried about having a daughter…"

"Not that. Are you saying that it hasn't come yet and that you don't know if it will?" Mother Wei asked.

Wei Yue Er nodded in embarrassment.

Jiang Shan knew about Wei Yue Er's menstrual cycle. He silently calculated it and his eyes lit up. "It's five days late!" Then he held Wei Yue Er's hand excitedly. "Yue Er!" He had been busy with company matters, so he forgot about this.

Li Su said, "You just ate a lot of hairy crabs, but it doesn't matter.2"

Wei Ding Shan sat up straight. He looked nervous. "Do you want to go get checked at a hospital?"

Mother Wei nodded hurriedly. "Quick, get the car!"

Jiang Shan stood up quickly. "I'll drive!"

The group hurriedly went to the nearest hospital. After examination, the doctor confirmed that Wei Yue Er was indeed pregnant. Mother Wei was happy and asked, "She ate a lot of hairy crabs tonight. Will this affect her? Will it be bad for the foetus?"

The doctor smiled. "It shouldn't. Do you feel any discomfort in your body?"

Wei Yue Er shook her head. "I feel fine." She only ate one and a half hairy crabs tonight. When she used to eat them, she would not stop at 4 or 5. But, since she had been with Jiang Shan, she found that it was really painful every time her period came, so she wouldn't eat more of these cold things. Also, Li Su was here tonight. She didn't dare to eat too much in front of her mother-in-law.

"That's fine. As long as you feel okay. It is still early, so remember to come to the hospital again when it has been three months!" the doctor said with a smile.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. They left the hospital, and Mother Wei said, "Yue Er, it's getting late. How about you rest at home tonight?"

Wei Yue Er was worried that Jiang Shan would not be willing, so she hesitated.

Li Su nodded. "Yes, your mother must have a lot to ask you. I will rest at home tonight. You go back first. I will take a taxi."

"How can this be? It isn't easy to take a taxi at night. I have called a driver to come over. Jiang Shan, you should drive your mother back first," Wei Ding Shan said after he put the phone down.

Wei Yue Er also said, "Yes, mum, let Jiang Shan take you back. We will worry if you take a taxi back alone!"

Although they all said so, Li Su still waited for a driver from the Wei family to arrive before leaving.

Chapter 29 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 9)

Jiang Shan drove Li Su back after Wei Yue Er and her parents got into the car.

On the way, Li Su warned him repeatedly. "Child Shan, our family is honest. During Yue Er's pregnancy, you aren't allowed to have any strange affairs. If you dare to do something to poor Yue Er, you will have to deal with me."

Jiang Shan smiled disapprovingly. "Mum, don't worry. Yue Er is carrying my son!"

"What son. You aren't allowed to say that in front of Yue Er. Whether it is a son or a daughter, it will be your child. Our family does not favour sons over daughters," said Li Su.

"Mum, you didn't say that before. You used to tell me that you wanted me to give you a fat grandson so that I could be worthy of the Jiang family's ancestors," Jiang Shan said jokingly.

"Is it possible that a granddaughter won't be a part of the Jiang family? Before, I used to think that the son was the pillar of the family when I was in the countryside. But now, people in the city like their daughters. Besides, mum didn't understand anything at that time. Now, I know so much. Everything is on TV!" said Li Su. "Boys and girls are the same. If Yue Er gives me a soft granddaughter, then that would be nice. I can buy her a lot of beautiful dresses and shoes. I can tie her hair up in cute braids!"

Jiang Shan smiled at that thought. "Mum is right."

"You have to take good care of Yue Er during her pregnancy. Don't make her angry and don't bully her! You hear me?" Li Su warned him again.

"Don't worry, mum. I know," said Jiang Shan with a smile.

After they returned, Mother Wei talked to Wei Yue Er inside while Wei Ding Shan smoked on the balcony. Jiang Shan put down the car keys and walked over. "Dad."

He was surprised to see that Wei Ding Shan's eyes were red. Jiang Shan didn't know what to do. "Dad, what's wrong?"

Wei Ding Shan rubbed his eyes. "It's nothing. I was thinking of Yue Er when she was younger and felt moved."

Jiang Shan smiled in understanding. "Dad, you and mum can rest assured. I will take good care of Yue Er."

Wei Ding Shan smiled. "Jiang Shan, when you become a father, you will understand how I feel. I only have a daughter, Yue Er. Sooner or later, everything I have will belong to her and it will be yours. I only hope that you can treat her well and not make her sad or disappointed."

This was the first time Jiang Shan heard Wei Ding Shan speak so sincerely, so he was a little touched. He understood what Wei Ding Shan meant, so he replied seriously, "Dad, I know what you mean. Don't worry. I will take good care of Yue Er and not do anything to harm her. Just watch!"

Wei Ding Shan merely smiled. "In our position, there are a lot of temptations in the world. Don't try to deny it. We are men and we are people. It's just that you have to keep in mind that it's okay to act to others, but don't put on an entire fake show or you will regret it sooner or later."

Jiang Shan disagreed with Wei Ding Shan's words in his heart. He knows of some of Wei Ding Shan's affairs, but he is different from Wei Ding Shan. However, even if he disagreed, he can't contradict him. "Dad, don't worry. My mother has told me many times that I must take care of Yue Er. She said that if I dare to bully Yue Er, she will break my leg!"

Wei Ding Shan smiled. "I also admired mother-in-law. She is a wise person. Having her as a mother is your blessing, Jiang Shan!"

"My mum always said that it is my good fortune to be able to marry Yue Er," Jiang Shan said with a smile.

"If the family is harmonious and there are no conflicts at home, then we can be at peace in our careers," Wei Ding Shan said.

Jiang Shan smiled and nodded. As the son and father-in-law were talking, Mother Wei came down. "Hey, Jiang Shan, are you back? Yue Er is asking for you. Oh, you are. Yue Er needs someone to look after her. You, ah… Holding your son-in-law here and talking for so long…"

Wei Ding Shan smiled awkwardly. "Okay, fine, fine. Go and accompany Yue Er!"

Jiang Shan nodded after hearing his words before he went upstairs. He heard Mother Wei accusing Wei Ding Shan of something as he left, along with Wei Ding Shan's embarrassed tone as he begged for mercy. Jiang Shan smiled slightly. Before, he had been reluctant to come visit the Wei family since he thought that Wei Ding Shan was a man who bullied others and had deep thoughts, and that Mother Wei was aloof and looked down on people.

But now, Jiang Shan thought that he had been too judgmental before.

When he thought of this, Jiang Shan lowered his head and smiled before he turned to enter the room.

Wei Yue Er had grown up spoiled and she was even more spoiled after she became pregnant. Mother Wei had hired 2 aunties who had studied nutrition in order to take care of Wei Yue Er's diet. Mother Wei had wanted Wei Yue Er to rest at home, but Wei Yue Er hadn't been happy. Wei Yue Er still liked commuting with Jiang Shan. Mother Wei agreed, but she repeatedly told Wei Ding Shan and Jiang Shan to take care of Wei Yue Er at the company.

In the morning, one of the aunties arranged a nutritious meal. After eating, Jiang Shan drove. The original 10 minute drive took half an hour.

When they got out of the car, Jiang Shan held Wei Yue Er's hand. In his other hand was the food box full of fruits, nuts, and milk prepared by the auntie.

Wei Yue Er originally worked as Jiang Shan's secretary. Since her previous desk was a bit close to the printer, she moved into Jiang Shan's office. She didn't have to do much every day; she just sent documents to various offices. Everyone in the company knew that she was the boss's daughter and vice president Jiang's wife. Nobody would say anything, and they would take care of her.

At noon. Mother Wei and Li Su brought lunch made by the aunties to the company. Sometimes, the aunties gave too much and so Wei Ding Shan and Jiang Shan could have some.

Wei Yue Er's relatives took good care of her, so she was in a good mood. Her life during her pregnancy was very happy.

But Jiang Shan met an unexpected person in the company.

"Mei Li? Why are you here? You look different from before. Did you get plastic surgery?" Jiang Shan had just come out of the bathroom when he saw Mei Li. He was surprised.

"Plastic surgery? I just put on make-up! Also, my name is Amy now." Mei Li was very satisfied when she saw the surprise on Jiang Shan's face. In fact, she really did have plastic surgery, so she was still recovering. Although the process was painful, it seemed that the effect was very good. In regards to men, they were always greedy for new things. She didn't believe that Jiang Shan would not take the bait.

It was a shame that she didn't have much money, so she could only choose a general hospital in China for her surgery. She felt that there were some places that wasn't satisfied with. After she got back together with Jiang Shan, she would have enough money to go to Korea or Japan to fix it up.

Jiang Shan frowned. He knew that Mei Li wanted to reconcile, but it was impossible. Yue Er was pregnant now and he could not afford to upset her. Mei Li was too aggressive! "Mei Li, you shouldn't have come here! It is impossible for us!"

"Jiang Shan, don't get me wrong. I just came here to work. The salary is good and there are a lot of benefits, so I applied for the job. In the future, we will be colleagues." Mei Li smiled and stretched out her hand.

Jiang Shan glanced at the name tag on her chest and said, "Sorry, we aren't in the same department.1 I have something to do." Her marketing department was on the 7th floor while his was on the 9th floor. Why did Mei Li appear here? Jiang Shan didn't have to think about it to know why.

Mei Li was not depressed. No response was the best response. She had taken the first step and it went smoothly. Next, she just needed to wait patiently. She heard that Wei Yue Er was pregnant, so she couldn't have sex.

She had sex with Jiang Shan back in college and knew that Jiang Shan had a high libido. She didn't believe that Jiang Shan could bear it. Mei Li turned around triumphantly and left.

Li Su and Mother Wei came out from behind the wall. Neither of them looked good.

"That little slut! She didn't give up and actually came here!" Li Su gritted her teeth.

Mother Wei's eyes flashed with resentment. "Mother-in-law knows her?"

"Mei Li, Jiang Shan's college classmate. She visited Jiang Shan several times before and said that her younger brother was getting married and that he needed one hundred and eighty thousand yuan as a gift. If she didn't provide the money, then her parents would marry her to an old man. I was stunned. This slut is full of lies!" said Li Su. "You can't keep such a person in the company. Yue Er is pregnant now, but she can't get angry. Mother-in-law, go find her and fire her!"

Mother Wei also had the same thoughts. She knew that Mei Lli was Jiang Shan's ex-girlfriend. If the two of them fell back in love, what would her Yue Er do? "Mother-in-law is right."

The two of them hurried to Wei Ding Shan's office.

The next day, Mei Li received a notice from the personnel department that she had been fired and that the company would pay her for this month. Because Mei Li had just joined the company and hadn't signed the contract, the terms from the company were considered good.

Mei Li was very anxious and angry. She changed her name to join the company, but was fired the next day. Someone must have been behind this.

Mei Li ignored the others and went to the 9th floor, angry. But, she calmed down the moment the elevator door opened. She thought for a long time and ended up not entering. Instead, she went back to her office and packed her things in silence. She didn't leave the company immediately, but went to the stairwell and squatted in the corner.

She knew that when Jiang Shan felt upset, his favourite place to go was the stairwell. She was taking her chances.

After half an hour, Mei Li heard familiar footsteps. She was right.

So, Mei Li started sobbing quietly.

"Who's there?" Jiang Shan was smoking. It was a habit. He didn't like going to the spacious and bright lounge area. He liked to go to the dark and narrow stairwell.

"It's you? What's wrong?" Jiang Shan recognised Mei Li, who was looking at him with red and swollen eyes. She had obviously been crying for a long time. Jiang Shan's heart softened.

Mei Li looked up at Jiang Shan. She then stood and threw herself into Jiang Shan's arms. "What the hell did I do wrong for you to do this to me?! It wasn't easy to find this job and I wanted to start over! You got someone to fire me! Why are you so ruthless to me?!"

Jiang Shan frowned slightly. Mei Li's crying was so sad that he couldn't push her away since he was a gentleman.

He then responded to Mei Li's words. "I got you fired? When did this happen? I don't have the ability to!"

"If it wasn't you, then who was it? You were afraid of your wife finding out, so you fired me! I found this job after much difficulty but I was fired after only a day of work. Why are you so cruel?!" Mei Li cried.

Mei Li is from the 營銷 department and Jiang Shan is from the 市場 department. They both translate to marketing and I don't know what the difference is. Sorry for the confusion.

Chapter 30 – My Son is a Phoenix Man (part 10)

Jiang Shan frowned. Only Wei Ding Shan had the right to fire Mei Li directly. He thought that Wei Ding Shan had gone too far. He and Mei Li had broken up, so there was no need to go to such lengths!

Mei Li noticed Jiang Shan shaking slightly, so she cried more pitifully. "Jiang Shan, I really didn't lie to you. My parents are looking for me everywhere. I can't go back. I can't let them find me, otherwise they will really sell me off for betrothal money for my brother. I don't want to be like my sisters, so I can only avoid them. Jiang Shan, please help me. In order to get this job, I gave up everything. My rent is almost up. I have nothing now. Help me! Help me!" Mei Li stopped crying and was just extremely pitiful.

Jiang Shan's heart softened. Although Mei Li lied to him, it was excusable. Besides, they used to be in love. He was perfectly happy with his family now. If Mei Li was also happy, then maybe they can live well. But, Mei Li wasn't doing well now.

Jiang Shan felt that he should help Mei Li.

"Stand up first, then I can help you," said Jiang Shan.

Mei Li immediately looked at Jiang Shan with hope in her eyes.

Jiang Shan thought about it silently. He had about 70000 to 80000 in the bank and a monthly salary of 15000. But, he didn't have a lot of free cash. Firstly, he was responsible for his household. Even if the house belonged to the Wei family, he still had to do his part. If the Wei family had to pay for household expenses, then he would be too useless. Secondly, he promised his mother that he would help her buy a house with his own money. He couldn't break this promise or let her down. Third, Yue Er was pregnant and there were now 2 more aunties. Although mother-in-law said she would pay for the aunties' salary, he couldn't let her. There were also the upcoming costs of nutrition for Yue Er and the baby, milk powder, diapers, and more. It was very expensive.

Jiang Shan thought about it for a while. "I'll give you five thousand yuan first to pay rent. Then, you can find a job. If that isn't enough money, let me know."

Mei Li was a little disappointed. Is this what he meant by help? But, Mei Li knew she could not be impatient. She could only catch the big fish by putting out a long line. She deliberately lowered her head and wiped away her tears. "No need. It was just a moment of anxiety. Don't take it to heart. I know it isn't easy for you. Your wife is pregnant now, so let's not meet again, lest your wife finds out and treats you badly."

Jiang Shan's frown deepened.

"Tch, if you are so sensible and know that meeting my son isn't good, then you shouldn't have come to the Wei family!" Li Su walked out from behind the corner.

"Mum! Why are you here?" Jiang Shan asked, surprised.

"Go. I'll deal with you later!" Li Su gave Jiang Shan a fierce look. She then walked over to Mei Li and looked her up and down. She sneered, then slapped Mei Li.

Mei Li was caught off guard. She was shocked and angry, and covered her face. Her eyes widened. "Are you crazy?!" Why was this old witch so strong?

Jiang Shan was also shocked by Li Su's sudden action. However, after he heard Mei Li's words, he felt disgusted. "Mei Li, watch your words!"

Mei Li was secretly annoyed. How could she fail again? Damn, why was it that every time she saw this old witch, she couldn't help it? She knew how much Jiang Shan valued his mother! She didn't know if she had somehow offended this old witch. Every time they met, it was never good! It was really strange!

Li Su grabbed Jiang Shan's hand. "Mei Li, let me tell you, no matter what kind of relationship you had with my son before, you chose to leave my son for money. This is the uncomfortable truth! My son is now married and Yue Er is my daughter-in-law and the mother of my grandchild! They are now happy with a full life. I hope you can have some self-respect. Don't come back and cause problems with my son, otherwise I will make you pay the price!"

Mei Li was pale. This old monster said some worrisome things. "Is it because I have no money so you won't look at me and you go for Wei Yue Er instead?"

"Look at this filthy person. Even inside she is filthy. The Wei family has money, but what is their relationship with me? I can now spend money, but it has all been earned by my son. Do you think that you are any good? You tossed him aside for the sake of money! Let me tell you that my son's money is for his family and for buying me a house. You won't get a penny from my son!" said Li Su. "Mei Li, don't you dare bother my son. If you dare to cause him problems, don't believe that I won't go and tell your parents that you have a lot of money. What do you think they will do?"

"You are not a person, you are a demon!" Mei Li was angry. She didn't understand why this old woman didn't like her. They had the same background and same life experiences. She had a warm personality and she would take care of Jiang Shan and be very filial. Compared to that spoiled and arrogant Wei Yue Er, was she not better?! Why did that old witch defend that damn Wei Yue Er and why did Li Su not like her?!

Mei Li removed her hands from her face and instead waved them around.

"Mei Li! Apologise to my mother!" Jiang Shan said angrily. He did not allow anyone to blame his mother. Mei Li was a gentle person before, so how was she so different now? He was so disappointed!

"You'll bring harm to my son! I'll tell you what I got from your words! You say you don't want to bother my son, but you seek him out and continue to harass him! My son is married! He has a wife and child. Don't you have any shame? What did you learn from your four years at university? How to seduce men? How to find a man? Bah, so shameless!"

Mei Li was inconsolable. "You! You!"

"Me? What about me? To tell you the truth, it was I who went to find my in-laws to get you fired. You are trying to seduce my son. I will never tolerate a woman with hidden intentions be in the company near my son and daughter-in-law! If I see you near my son again in the future, I'll hit you again! I'll make you pay with your life! Why are you still here? Do you want me to deal with you?" Li Su had her hands on her hips, angry.

Mei Li looked at their faces and saw dislike on Jiang Shan's face. She could not help but get angry and turned to leave the stairs.

"Mum, don't be angry!" Jiang Shan watched Mei Li leave, but he was busy holding Li Su's hand.

"You're telling me not to be angry? How can I not be angry?! You should be kneeling! How can I raise a son like this?! No matter what happened between you and her, you have already broken up with her. You are married now and your wife is pregnant with your child, but you want to hook up with other women. What are you doing? Does your child mean nothing? How did I raise you?!" Li Su said while hitting Jiang Shan a few times.

Jiang Shan saw that Li Su was really angry, but he was in pain. How strong was his mother? But, he didn't dare to run away. "Mum, I am sorry. I am wrong. I shouldn't anger you and I shouldn't meet Mei Li. I am wrong! You don't have to be angry."

Li Su listened to him. "You shouldn't be apologising to me. You should be apologising to Yue Er! Son, you are a man. Yue Er is your wife. You are the child's father. You have responsibilities that you can't walk away from!"

Jiang Shan nodded. "Mum, I know. I will promise you that I will never meet Mei Li in the future."

Li Su sighed. "Not just Mei Li. There is also Zhang Li, Li Li, and Wang Li. There are a lot of women like Mei Li!"

"Mum!"

"Son, you know why mum is saying this again. I have already warned you. After you get married, you can't have affairs. Did you know? Not long after your grandmother and grandfather married, your grandfather had a mistress who dropped by and hounded your grandmother to death. You don't know how much your uncle and I endured. Fortunately, your grandfather and that wild woman died early. Later, I went to university. Your aunt thought I was a burden and let me get married, letting me choose who. I selected your dad. Why? Your dad was honest and wasn't likely to run wild. Son, I don't want you to learn from your grandfather who ruined a good home." Li Su used her lifelong acting skills to have tears stream down.

"Mum!" Jiang Shan panicked. This was the first time he saw Li Su cry. His mother had always been a strong person. Even when his father died, his mother didn't cry. She only didn't sleep for a few nights. Mother spent so many years raising him by herself. He had never seen her so vulnerable! It wasn't good to make his mother sad.

"Mum, I am wrong. I will promise you that I will not be with other women. I won't cheat and I won't do anything to harm Yue Er and the child! I promise you! Mum, don't cry!" Jiang Shan said, panicked.

"Good child, mum believes you. Get up! You have been mother's pride. Mum believes you! Don't cry or I'll worry!" Li Su wiped his tears with her sleeve while Jiang Shan took out a tissue for Li Su.

Mother and son wiped away each other's tears and smiled.

For the first time, Li Su thought, damn it!

This small event passed and neither of them took it to heart. Jiang Shan was now more considerate to Wei Yue Er.

Li Su and Mother Wei became obsessed with shopping at various stores for mothers and children. They wanted to decorate the baby room and shop for baby products. When they saw items they liked, they would call Wei Yue Er and ask her for her opinion. Wei Yue Er had no intention of going to work and often took time off to go shopping with her 2 mothers.