Chapter 11

Gu Jinchen was not at home, and the house felt much emptier.

After dinner, she let the two little ones wash up well after giving them a bath and sending them to their rooms to rest. Luo Ge was also ready to rest.

The moonlight tonight was very good, with stars all over the sky. The shadows of the trees shone under the moonlight, and the scene of fireflies flying and dancing all around was very beautiful.

Luo Ge couldn't help but watch this scene for a few more moments as she stood outside the house.

"Knock, knock."

Just then, the sudden knock on the yard gate startled her, and her hand subconsciously grabbed the iron hoe by the corner of the wall as she looked warily at the yard gate.

"Knock, knock." Two more knocks.

She didn't ask any questions, as Gu Jinchen was not at home now, and there were only her and the two little ones. If there were thieves outside with weapons, she was afraid she would not be their match.

Just as she was thinking about countermeasures, a black shadow suddenly jumped down from the wall of the yard.

"!!!" Her body reacted faster than her brain. By the time she realized what was happening, the iron hoe in her hand had already swung over.

Seeing the iron hoe suddenly swinging towards him, Gu Jinchen was also startled and hurriedly blocked it with his hand.

"Help! Catch the thief!" In a panic, she immediately shouted, hoping that Wang Sister-In-Law next door hadn't gone to bed yet and could hear her.

"It's me!" Gu Jinchen hurriedly said while trying to grab Luo Ge, but unexpectedly got a judo throw in return, with a kick to his chest.

"Oof."

He didn't expect his delicate little wife to be so skilled. Caught off guard, the sour pain made him involuntarily grunt.

Luo Ge was about to swing the iron hoe again when in the next moment, seeing his face clearly, she froze instantly.

Now he was lying on the ground, and under the moonlight Luo Ge finally recognized him.

"Husband?" She tried tentatively.

Gu Jinchen rubbed his chest and glanced at her.

"Yes, it's me."

After confirming it was indeed Gu Jinchen, her first reaction was to immediately discard the murder weapon and smile awkwardly at Gu Jinchen as he stood up.

Gu Jinchen: "..."

"Uncle, auntie."

Hearing the commotion, the two little ones also ran out and called out in confusion when they saw the scene in the yard.

"Uncle, you're back so soon?" Second Baby was the first to speak and ask the question they all wanted to ask.

Gu Jinchen brushed off his clothes: "I had a good haul today, so I came back early."

"It's late now, you two should go back to your rooms and rest."

After sending the two little ones away, he turned back to look at Luo Ge: "I'll wash up first, you should go back to the room too."

From beginning to end, he didn't say a word about what had just happened.

Luo Ge, who obediently went back to the room, felt a little uneasy.

She had actually hit Gu Jinchen just now. She was done for. He wouldn't be angry, would he?

This unease persisted until she was in bed.

"Husband..." Seeing that he hadn't spoken since coming to bed, she couldn't help calling out.

Hearing her voice, Gu Jinchen tilted his head slightly.

"What is it?"

"Just now...I'm sorry, I thought you were a thief, so..."

Oh, so that's why the little wife hadn't slept or hugged him yet. She was thinking about this.

"It's nothing. I startled you. Now that I know you can handle yourself, I feel at ease."

He didn't take what happened just now to heart at all. It just made him even more curious about her past.

She appeared delicate and beautiful, but was talented in both literary and martial arts, had excellent culinary skills, and was skilled in self-defense.

He had to say, the more he understood her, the more she surprised him, and the more curious he was about what kind of family could raise such a girl.

Hearing his words, Luo Ge blinked in surprise and raised her head to meet his gaze.

"You're not angry?"

"No, why would I be angry at you?" She did nothing wrong.

"...Then why were you so quiet?"

"...I'm always quiet." He certainly couldn't say he was waiting for his little wife to fall asleep so he could hold her.

"..." That did seem reasonable, he was indeed a quiet person.

Seeing that he wasn't angry, Luo Ge felt relieved.

"That's good that you're not angry. I'll rest first, you should sleep early too."

"Mm."

After she spoke, the room was quiet for a long time, with only the sound of Luo Ge tossing and turning in bed.

She really was trying to fall asleep, but for some reason, whenever she closed her eyes, she would easily recall being carried by him like an accessory.

Thinking about it made her unable to fall asleep.

Gu Jinchen silently watched this scene and pinched his fingers. The next time she turned over, he directly reached out and pulled her into his arms.

"Sleep." After holding her, he felt at ease. Though his ears were burning badly, and his heart was beating so fast.

Lying on his chest listening to his steady heartbeat, Luo Ge's little heart was also thumping quickly.

"Mm." She carefully nestled her head and responded softly, her little face flushed red.

After a long while, the little wife nestled in his arms finally fell sound asleep.

Looking at her sleeping face, Gu Jinchen was a little nervous, but eventually still carefully and gingerly placed a kiss on her face.

Gazing at her sleeping face, he was finally satisfied and fell asleep as well.


Chapter 12

The day of Gu Jinchen and Luo Ge's wedding was approaching, and the two of them started preparing.

This was the first time Luo Ge went into town with Gu Jinchen. It just so happened to be market day today, so the streets were very lively and crowded with people everywhere you looked.

"Stay close to me." Worried that Luo Ge would get lost, Gu Jinchen instructed her carefully. He even pulled over a corner of her clothes for her to hold onto.

"Mm..." This treatment was like taking care of a child... Oh well, she obediently grabbed his clothes and followed closely behind him in the end.

The two little ones went to play with Tie Dan and didn't come along.

As they walked, buying things the family needed, her eyes were also looking around at the stalls on the street, paying special attention to those selling chickens and ducks.

She had raised quite a few in her farm space, and just in the past few days the eggs from chickens and ducks alone had produced a lot. There was no way for the family to finish them all themselves, so she had to think of ways to find sales channels.

"Want to buy anything?" Seeing her gaze lingering on the street stalls, Gu Jinchen asked.

"Let's buy some pastries?"

Luo Ge didn't really want anything herself. The things needed for the wedding were already pretty much prepared, just lacking some peanuts, pastries and such to entertain guests.

"Okay."

Because Gu Jinchen had just come out of mourning, they didn't plan to make a big fuss, just set up three to five tables and invite elders from the village and some good friends from the village to eat together.

When they passed by a jewelry store after buying the pastries, Gu Jinchen suddenly stopped and looked at Luo Ge's simply pinned up hair with just a wooden hairpin.

"Wait for me here." Leaving these words, he turned and entered the jewelry store next door.

Not long after, he came out with a small box and handed it to Luo Ge.

"My means are limited for now, I'll buy you better ones in the future."

? Hearing this, Luo Ge blankly took the box. Opening it, she found a delicate butterfly hairpin inside, along with a matching pair of small butterfly earrings.

She could clearly feel a heaviness when picking it up. It was obviously solid, and a silver bangle could become a family heirloom in this era. It goes without saying that this solid hairpin was extremely valuable.

"I can't take this." Thinking so, she hurriedly shoved it back to him.

He had already spent far too much on her, going way beyond her original intention to just fill her belly. She couldn't take any more from him.

Seeing her give the things back, Gu Jinchen's brows locked tight.

"Don't you like it?" He didn't have experience coaxing women. He just heard Li Qiao say a couple times that giving jewelry to your wife makes them happy.

Also seeing that she did lack accessories, he bought them.

Luo Ge shook her head. "It's too valuable."

The hairpin and earrings were very beautiful. What girl wouldn't like pretty things, but it really was too valuable.

"It's nothing. I can afford it, you don't have to worry too much. I can support you."

He wasn't extremely wealthy now, but he could still let his wife eat her fill, dress warmly, and buy some clothes and accessories.

Moreover, he wanted to treat her well.

The reason...he couldn't say clearly. Anyway he just wanted to treat her well, and following his heart was right.

He felt his dad was very correct that a wife is for cherishing and spoiling.

What's more, he felt his wife really was someone that made people want to cherish her badly.

Not waiting for Luo Ge to say anything more, he shoved the things back into her arms and pulled her to walk out of the city.

Looking at the box in her arms, then at the man in front, Luo Ge only felt a warmth in her heart.

She didn't want to fall for him ah, but he said he wanted to support her hmm.

She could only acquiesce from her heart. She had to say, this feeling of being spoiled felt really nice.

However, she would definitely not let him suffer losses because of her.

...

In the blink of an eye, it was the seventh day of the seventh month.

At this time, their little courtyard was plastered with red double happiness paper cutouts, very festive.

Luo Ge wore the red bridal clothes Gu Jinchen had brought back for her that day. In her hair was an exquisite butterfly hairpin, and a touch of cinnabar rouge on her red lips.

Although simply adorned, it still made people completely unable to look away. Her usually ignorant and innocent soft charms took on an indescribable allure with this red outfit.

Gu Jinchen, who was greeting guests, froze in place when he saw this scene, unable to look away for a long time.

"Haha, I knew it, you see he really is stunned right?" Following Luo Ge out from the room, Wang Sister-In-Law saw this scene and immediately laughed.

Luo Ge's good looks, after this outfit, not to mention men, even she had been confused for a long while.

Naturally shy on her wedding day to begin with, Luo Ge was even more bashful hearing Wang Sister-In-Law's words.

"Sister-in-law Wang." She couldn't help but cry out.

"Hahaha okay okay, sister-in-law won't tease you."

Seeing the bashful bride, the guests also recovered from their astonishment.

The village chief and Li Qiao slapped Gu Jinchen's shoulders together.

"Kid, you're really lucky!"

"Brother Jinchen, you've really struck gold!"

"That's for sure..."

"Big Treasure, your auntie is so pretty. I want to find a wife this pretty in the future too." Hearing the adults' words, Tie Dan also said enviously.

This made the two little ones very smug.

Older Baby: "Of course, she's our family's auntie."

"Our auntie is the best." Second Baby also raised his chin arrogantly.

At this time, the pride in Gu Jinchen's heart was the same as these two little ones.

Naturally his wife was the best.

Li Qiao was right, he really did strike gold.

"The auspicious time is almost here, bride and groom please enter the hall." At this time the elderly clan leader from the village came out to announce. This wedding was presided over by the clan elder with many descendants and great fortune.

Hearing this, Gu Jinchen slowly approached Luo Ge and firmly grasped her hand to lead her into the hall.

Since Luo Ge already lived in the Gu house, and she no longer had family on her maternal side, the ceremony was much simpler.

Omitting the process of picking up the bride, under the auspicious time and witnessed by everyone, the bride and groom only needed to bow to the ancestral tablet to complete the marriage rite.

Gu Jinchen's ancestral tablet was gone, so his grandparents' memorial tablets were placed there.

The relatives and friends also crowded in, surrounding the newlyweds in a circle.

"The auspicious time is here, perform the bows -" Following the clan elder's loud announcement, everyone quieted down.

"First bow, to heaven and earth, husband and wife united!"

Following the cues, Gu Jinchen and Luo Ge together faced outside and bowed down.

"Second bow, to the high altar, full of fortune!"

Another bow to the altar.

"Husband and wife, bow to each other, united by fate for white-haired companionship!"

Witnessed by everyone, the newlyweds stood across from each other and completed the final bow. From now on they were lawfully wedded husband and wife.

"The rite is complete! Enter the bridal chamber!"

As soon as the clan elder finished speaking, Gu Jinchen picked up Luo Ge. Not waiting for the crowd to react and make trouble, he carried Luo Ge back into the room.

"Oh, this kid's reactions are so quick!"

"Hahaha, he's protecting his wife, afraid we'd bully her."

Hearing their words, Gu Jinchen's ears turned a bit red. He carefully placed Luo Ge on the bed.

"You stay in the room and eat something first, I'll be back soon."

The room had already prepared food for Luo Ge. Gu Jinchen's handsome face gradually turned red as he spoke.

Luo Ge was also a little embarrassed and obediently nodded.

"Okay, I'll wait for you in the room."

"Remember to call me if you need anything."

"Okay."

...He said as soon as possible, but after greeting the guests and cleaning up the borrowed tables, chairs, bowls and chopsticks, the sky was already dark.

After closing the courtyard door and settling the two little ones, Gu Jinchen finally returned to the room.

Hearing the sound of the door opening, Luo Ge nervously pinched her fingers.

Gu Jinchen was also nervous at this time, but with the wine he had drunk, his courage was much greater than usual.

Lowering his eyes to look at his little wife, the two were silent for a long time before he was the first to reach out and hug her into his arms, placing her on his lap.

Lowering his head to meet her eyes, his Adam's apple rolled slightly.

He tentatively leaned towards her and planted a kiss on those delicate lips.

At the moment the kiss landed, Luo Ge was noticeably stiffened, but she still closed her eyes and carefully responded awkwardly.

And it was this careful response that completely ignited the fire the man had been suppressing.

The awkward shallow kiss gradually deepened, like a long drought finally seeing rain...

On their wedding night, everything flowed smoothly...

Not until halfway through the night near dawn did a certain person satisfy his little wife by bringing water to clean her body.

Seeing the conspicuous patch of red on the bed, and looking at his little wife who had passed out, the light in his eyes was somewhat pained and remorseful.

But at the same time, his heart was also unprecedentedly satisfied.


Chapter 13

Luo Ge slept until nearly noon due to the events of last night.

"Awake?"

She thought Gu Jinchen would have gone out early, but surprisingly he was still in the room.

"Mm, where are Older Baby and Second Baby?" Rubbing her sore waist, Luo Ge murmured a response and asked.

Seeing it was nearly afternoon, she hoped the two little ones hadn't gone hungry.

"They're outside, don't worry. We had some leftover steamed buns from yesterday that I heated up for them to eat so they aren't hungry," Gu Jinchen replied.

After being fed by Luo Ge for several days, all their appetites had increased. Gu Jinchen's cooking skills...were truly hard to swallow.

It was still best to just eat yesterday's leftovers.

Hearing this, Luo Ge nodded. She suddenly noticed his complexion seemed a little off, an unnaturally flushed red.

Following where his evasive gaze led, Luo Ge glanced down at herself. Very good, a peeled boiled egg.

"Turn your head away," she commanded. She had passed out at the end so had no idea what else happened afterward.

Seeing her current state, she instantly blushed beet red.

"I didn't peek, I just checked on you earlier and saw you seemed quite injured last night, so I brought some medicine."

"D-do you need me to apply medicine for you?"

His stuttering explanation just made her feel more embarrassed and angry. She only had one 'injured' area. So he says he didn't peek...

Now Luo Ge's face turned completely red. She curled up tightly in the blankets and mumbled, "I can do it myself."

Although they had consummated as husband and wife last night, doing so now in broad daylight still made her feel awkward.

"You can't see back there yourself," the man bluntly stated this seemingly teasing line, yet it did not feel inappropriate at all.

But she had to admit he was right.

In the end, still blushing, Luo Ge let him help apply the medicine, forehead beaded with sweat.

Seeing his wife injured, he didn't have the heart to torment her further, yet it still left him hot and bothered.

"I'll go make some noodles for you," he said, looking for an excuse to step outside and cool down.

While his cooking skills were poor, making dough, pulling noodles, boiling water, and washing vegetables he could still do. Later his wife just needed to blanch them.

Regarding his lack of cooking prowess, he truly didn't understand why. He followed her steps yet the flavor still turned out...unspeakable.

Strangely, he succeeded at tasks like making dumplings and pulling noodles, doing them skillfully.

But cooking always failed. He really didn't know how to explain it.

"Mm," Luo Ge nodded. After he left, still sore, she put on her clothes.

Seeing the mess left on the bed, her freshly cooled face turned red again. She hurriedly changed the sheets. Only then did she exit the room.

"Auntie!"

As soon as she stepped out, the two little ones rushed over to hug her legs. Their eyes brimmed with concern.

"Auntie, did Uncle bully you?" Last night it sounded like Auntie was crying.

Then this morning when they wanted to find Auntie, Uncle wouldn't allow it.

"!" Luo Ge's barely cooled face flushed red again. She quickly shook her head. "No, your Uncle didn't bully me."

Seeing her appearance, the two little ones blinked doubtfully.

"Really?"

"You can tell us, Auntie. If Uncle bullied you we'll fight back for you," Second Baby said, waving a small fist at Gu Jinchen who had just walked over.

In just a few days, they had become completely bought over by Auntie's delicious food. They already really liked her from the start. Now with their stomachs conquered, they naturally wanted to protect her even more.

Gu Jinchen: "..."

He silently reached out and grabbed the two troublemakers, prying them off.

"Auntie isn't feeling well. Don't pester her," he scolded them, using his body to block the little ones, protective of his wife.

Seeing them, the big and little ones, Luo Ge amusedly shook her head.

"Really, your Uncle didn't bully me." But she still carefully answered the little ones' question.

Children's attention wandered strangely. If you didn't explain clearly, they might overthink. It was better to talk with them properly.

Hearing Luo Ge say this, the two finally felt reassured.

"That's good then."

Yet Gu Jinchen gave his little wife a meaningful look. He...didn't bully her?

Noticing his gaze, Luo Ge awkwardly evaded and hurried into the kitchen.

He had prepared quite a lot of noodles. The water had just started boiling so Luo Ge added all the noodles directly in.

Once the water boiled again she took out some eggs from the cabinet and cracked them in, then added wild vegetables. A simple egg and vegetable noodle soup was done.

"Come eat too," she called out. The dishes on the table never had leftovers. The only things remaining were what she had originally left in the kitchen.

She remembered only three or four steamed buns were left in the kitchen yesterday. Divided between them that definitely wouldn't be enough.

"Okay." Gu Jinchen walked in first to wash the bowls and chopsticks and serve out the noodles.

The two little ones very sensibly went to wash their hands clean.

"Hubby, I plan to tidy up the vegetable garden and plant some veggies. What do you think?" Seeing the wild vegetables, Luo Ge suddenly recalled this.

With all the rain lately, planting some vegetables should survive well. Eating wild plants every day wasn't great.

Better to grow their own and plant whatever they wanted to eat.

She had already planted some green onion, ginger, garlic, and chili patches by her own courtyard door.

For other types she had bought seeds but hadn't planted them yet.

"Sounds good. I'll go clear the weeds and turn over the soil later, then it'll be ready. What do you want to plant?"

"I haven't decided yet. Let's go into town together in a few days to see what seeds they have and just plant some randomly," Luo Ge suggested.

"Okay, sure."

The little couple were both the get-it-done type. They did as they said.

After eating and resting a while, Gu Jinchen brought her to see the Gu family vegetable patch near the riverside by the mountain.

Drawing water there was very convenient. Right next to the garden was an enormous old tree, perfect for shade from the blazing sun.

"You three just stay here in the shade," Gu Jinchen arranged her and the two little ones in the shaded area under the tree branches. "It's too sunny out there," he said, putting on a straw hat and walking to the other sunnier end.

Luo Ge had just taken two steps to follow him when his stern gaze stopped her.

"Be good." Seeing how she walked, he knew her body still wasn't comfortable. He hadn't wanted her to come along to start with. But he couldn't control her.

However, he absolutely could not allow her to bake under the sun.

So formidable. Luo Ge obediently shrank back her neck.

"Then...take care of yourself too," she said softly.

"Mm, good girl," Gu Jinchen gently patted her head, his demeanor relaxing.

His low voice combined with the gentle caress made her feel a little dizzy.

Blushing, she shrank back with the two little ones and quietly started weeding with a small hoe. The two little helpers busily picked weeds for her as well.


Chapter 14

With many people working together, men and women pairing up makes the work less tiring. In less than two hours, the vegetable patch was completely turned over, ready for the seeds to be directly planted.

"Let's go, back home." The sun had already started to set, time to go back and make dinner.

Hearing the words "back home" come from Luo Ge's mouth, Gu Jinchen felt an indescribable warmth in his heart.

Seeing the silhouette of one adult and two children walking hand in hand ahead, the corners of his mouth raised high, a long-lost feeling of happiness surrounding him.

"Having a wife does indeed feel really good," he murmured.

No wonder that brat Li Qiao would always think about hurrying home whenever he was out travelling.

Previously, he was always making fun of him, but now, he would probably be the one on the receiving end.

...The rabbit Gu Jinchen had caught from the mountains last time had already been finished. At that time, there were some dried chili peppers at home, so she made a stir fried and a braised rabbit dish with them.

She also sent some over to Wang Sister-In-Law's family next door to let them have a taste. They had helped look after the two little ones a lot and also lent a hand on their wedding day.

They had taken care of them on normal days too, good neighbors like them were rare. Naturally they should interact more to maintain the relationship.

The rest was finished by their little family. Two fat rabbits in one meal, they ate until very full.

Today, there was still a wild chicken at home with a broken wing. Luo Ge was preparing to deal with it tonight.

While hoeing the weeds in the vegetable patch, Luo Ge had picked up some green onions and a nest of potatoes, only three or four small egg potatoes.

There were also a few vegetables that were probably seeds that had fallen into the soil that Gu Jinchen didn't notice before. They could just nicely make a potato and chicken stew.

Those few vegetables could also be stir fried.

At this time, families that could eat meat two or three times a week were actually very few. However, their family were hunters.

"What's wrong?" Gu Jinchen, who was helping watch the fire, saw that his young wife kept staring at him and couldn't help but ask.

"Nothing, I just feel very lucky to have met you," Luo Ge said with a smile. In her heart, she was grateful for having met him back then.

This man is caring, hardworking and honest, good-looking, and can hunt to earn money to provide for his family. Meeting him, she really struck gold.

Wife, this, is this... a confession?

Upon hearing this, the rough man was stunned for a moment, his face instantly turning red. "I, I think I'm the lucky one," he stammered back a sentence, successfully amusing Luo Ge.

Seeing her laugh, Gu Jinchen also unconsciously turned up the corners of his mouth. Usually quite a smart man, but so silly now.

"Is there still wine at home? I'll add some." When they ate at the banquet yesterday, they had some wine. There should still be some left.

"There is, I'll go get it." Hearing this, Gu Jinchen immediately ran to get the wine for his wife.

"Just put the wine here, you go out first. It'll be done soon." After he brought it over, Luo Ge started shooing him out.

Gu Jinchen looked at Luo Ge, then looked outside the yard. In the end, he still obediently went out.

After he left, Luo Ge took out some seasoning wine and ingredients from her space.

First, she parboiled the chicken with green onion, ginger and seasoning wine. Then, she fished out the parboiled chicken.

She stir fried the chicken with oil, salt, star anise and bay leaves until cooked through and fragrant before fishing it out to set aside.

Then, using the remaining oil in the wok, she stir fried the potato cubes until the surfaces were golden brown before fishing them out to also set aside.

Next, she added some water and rice wine to braise the chicken for seven to eight minutes before adding the potatoes and a bit of salt to continue braising. Finally, she sprinkled on the green onions before taking it off the heat.

Before serving, Luo Ge picked out and burnt the bay leaves in the stove. She only brought the dish out after that.

The two little ones couldn't take spicy food. Last time, they didn't dare eat much of the spicy braised rabbit, only the non-spicy stewed rabbit.

So she catered to their tastes. Anyway, the two adults weren't picky.

"Come eat, go wash your hands." A simple potato chicken stew, with a side of stir fried greens.

"Ok, Big Treasure is here."

"Second Treasure is here too, little uncle is the slowest."

In the time she was cooking, the two little ones had already bathed. Hearing her, they immediately went to wash their hands and sat neatly in the main hall.

The staple today was not so good, just corn porridge.

There were a lot of wheat and rice stocked up, but they couldn't eat lavishly every day. They still had to live frugally.

Eating too extravagantly all the time might attract envious gazes. People's noses during this time were exceptionally sensitive.

Moreover, grain yields were generally low in this period. Sometimes, wheat and rice were even more precious than meat.

But for meat, even if others were envious, there was nothing they could do.

If they had the capability, they could also go up the mountain to hunt. After all, the great mountains belonged to no one. Anyone who could obtain food from the mountains depended on their own ability.

Although their little family disliked trouble, they were not afraid of trouble either.

"Mm, I was slow." Hearing the little one's words, Gu Jinchen waved his freshly washed hands and laughed.

Perhaps because it was stir fried with spices, the dishes today were especially popular with them.

Soon, the uncle and nephews started snatching food from each other.

Don't let their small size fool you, their speed was really not bad. This was thanks to their little uncle making them practice martial arts every day.

According to the little ones, starting half a year ago, their little uncle had them get up early every day to practice martial arts with him. Only after practice could they freely do what they wanted.

Now, although they were small, children their age didn't dare bully them.

They got up so early that Luo Ge only found out about it yesterday.

"For little auntie, eat meat."

"Eat Second Treasure's, little auntie."

Luo Ge didn't participate in their battle for meat. Unexpectedly, the two little ones insisted on picking out the meat they finally managed to grab and gave it to her.

But halfway there, Gu Jinchen stopped them. "Eat your own, your little auntie will eat mine."

Of course he couldn't let other men dote on his wife, only he himself could.

Those two little brats were also not allowed, in case his wife liked them more in the future.

Saying so, Gu Jinchen passed his entire bowl of spoils to Luo Ge, "Wife eat."

Luo Ge's little face turned slightly red. This was the first time he called her wife.

Mm... what happened last night didn't count.

Seeing this, the little ones felt a little embarrassed but couldn't match his insistence. They could only obediently keep eating.

But she didn't have a big appetite and couldn't eat much. In the end, most of it still entered his stomach.

She was the first to finish eating. She had always maintained the habit of "Walking after meals, living until 99".

After eating, she wanted to take a walk around the yard to aid her digestion but stopped in her tracks as soon as she stepped out of the main hall.

Her little face flushed red. This morning, the bed sheet was dirtied so she had taken it off to soak. She was planning to wash it later.

She didn't expect it to have already been washed and hung out to dry now. She hadn't gotten to it yet and the two little ones couldn't wash it either. The only possibility was Gu Jinchen.

One might not have eaten pork before but would have at least seen a pig run. Having seen so many online videos and stuff, she naturally knew men cared a lot about touching the things women dirtied.

Moreover, people in ancient times were especially superstitious about these things, believing they were inauspicious.

She really didn't expect that he would actually help her wash it.

"I bathed those two rascals just now and washed it by the way."

Gu Jinchen had followed her out. Seeing her staring blankly at the bedsheet, his face was also a little embarrassed.

Scratching his head, he said so. Seeing the bedsheet made him easily recall last night's affairs.

"Mm." Hearing his words, Luo Ge turned her head to look at him, her eyes curving into crescents, full of glittering lights.

Gu Jinchen was immediately stunned by the sight, remaining foolishly frozen for a long time before coming back to his senses. Feeling rather awkward, he brought the bowls and chopsticks back to the kitchen.

"I'll go wash the dishes."

Watching the man's back view, Luo Ge and the two little ones burst out laughing at the same time.


Chapter 15

Perhaps it was because they had more intimate contact, but that night when Gu Jinchen hugged his wife to sleep, his actions were much more natural than before.

Having a delicate wife in his arms gave him a great sense of stability, and he felt that this was gradually becoming a habit for him.

...The next day.

"Sister-in-law Wang? You're looking for me?" Luo Ge was quite surprised to see Sister-in-law Wang coming to find her so early in the morning.

"Yeah, I want to go into town later, do you want to come along? It'd be nice for us to have each other's company."

Go into town? Luo Ge did want to go, but yesterday the two of them had agreed to go buy seeds together.

Thinking of this, Luo Ge turned to look at Gu Jinchen, who had brought back some wood these past few days and was now preparing to make new wooden tubs for the two little ones.

The previous one had already been used by Luo Ge, so he didn't want the two little ones to use it anymore.

"You can go if you want, there's nothing much to do at home anyway," said Gu Jinchen with a smile when he noticed his little wife's gaze. He was very happy to see her socializing more and making some friends, otherwise she'd be all alone with no one to talk to on ordinary days, which was too pitiful.

Sister-in-law Wang was a decent woman, so he could rest assured with her going along.

Of course, he was sensible enough not to invite himself along on a women's outing.

Hearing this, Luo Ge turned back to Sister-in-law Wang and nodded lightly, "Let's go. What time are we leaving? I'll go back and change clothes."

"We'll be leaving soon, the earlier we go the earlier we can come back. Go change, I'll wait for you here. Just call me when you're done."

"Alright."

Sister-in-law Wang was easygoing. After speaking with Luo Ge, she turned and went back next door to get her things.

After Sister-in-law Wang left, Luo Ge went back inside to change into a set of clothes - the ready-made clothes Gu Jinchen had bought for her. They were a simple, plain color that she usually wore when going out.

She now had only a few sets of clothes total: the set she wore when she came back with him, the ready-made clothes he had bought, and her bridal clothes he had bought.

He had bought fabric but she hadn't sewn anything yet, mainly because she wasn't very good at making clothes. She could sew, but sewing and making clothes were two different things.

At home she usually just wore her old, patched-up gray clothes which were convenient for doing chores. She only changed into the other clothes when going out.

After changing, she took a small basket on her back and prepared to head out.

But Gu Jinchen helplessly stopped her, lightly knocking on her head and stuffing a patched money pouch into her arms.

"You can't go into town without some money. Take this, buy whatever you want."

His tone was a bit ostentatious, haha.

Luo Ge looked down as he directed, peeking into the pouch, and then froze.

Wow, it was full of copper coins and a few broken silver pieces. At first glance there were at least two taels of silver.

"I don't need this much, I'm just going to casually look around. A few tens of coins is enough for me to spend."

Two taels, that was enough to cover their household expenses for a year or two.

This guy was really willing to give, he didn't even worry that she would take the money and run.

"No need to be polite, take it. I'll give you the rest when you get back, from now on you can manage the household."

He had done some business with his brothers before coming back, and earned some silver.

When he first came back, he had brought over 200 taels of silver to handle his parents' affairs. Over the past year or so some had been spent on living expenses.

But there were still about 200 taels left, and in the meantime he often went hunting in the mountains. He and Li Xiang were both daring and had gone deep into the mountains before.

When they got lucky they managed to get some valuable things like tigers and deer a couple times. Plus there was the usual wild chickens, rabbits, boars, etc.

Even a little mosquito is meat. Bit by bit it added up, and now just from saving they had over 400 taels put away, more than enough to support a wife.

But hearing his words, Luo Ge was a bit dumbfounded. There was more? She couldn't have married a secretly rich man, right?

"Go on, the sooner you leave the sooner you'll be back. Don't keep Sister-in-law Wang waiting too long." Just then Sister-in-law Wang happened to come over, so before Luo Ge could say more Gu Jinchen urged her to go.

"Luo Ge~" Sister-in-law Wang called from outside too.

Seeing this, Luo Ge had to let it go for now. "Then let me know if you guys want me to buy anything and bring it back."

Gu Jinchen shook his head first, followed by the two little ones.

"Alright, I'm going now then." Seeing the big and little ones shake their heads in unison, Luo Ge gave up and headed out carrying her basket, towards Sister-in-law Wang outside.

...The village wasn't far from town, so they didn't wait for an oxcart.

Passing through the city gate, Luo Ge noticed the few refugees who had lingered for the past couple days were now nowhere to be seen.

"You're looking for those northerners who came right? The word from above came down a few days ago that they've all settled down in town now. I heard they were given land by the officials."

"Just west of town. And not a small number either, sounds like three to five whole villages worth of people."

Noticing her gaze, Sister-in-law Wang took the initiative to share what she knew.

The northwest had been drought-stricken for years, so there were refugees going south and east. Those who came to their Yiyang Town were just a small portion.

The south had always been stable with good climate and ample land and water. As long as they weren't lazy, Luo Ge believed they could soon live well again.

"I see, so that's why I didn't see anyone when I came to town the other day." Hearing Sister-in-law Wang's explanation, Luo Ge understood.

"Our current Emperor is a rare good official. Of course things are handled quickly. I heard he even gave those refugees quite a bit of grain stipends."

That was how things were done here. Luo Ge guessed the refugees in other places were also arranged similarly.

The "officials" mentioned here naturally referred to the current Sage Emperor.

Seeing Sister-in-law Wang's smiling expression when speaking of the officials, Luo Ge knew he must be a very popular ruler among the common people.

"That makes sense."

After chatting for a bit at the city gate, the two women entered the town.

"I want to go to West Street first to sell eggs. Do you want to come with me? Or you can go wander on your own first, up to you."

The Wang family raised chickens and usually could save some eggs to sell in town for money to subsidize household expenses.

Sister-in-law Wang's main purpose today was to sell these eggs, then buy some household necessities to take home.

"I'll go with you. Anyway I haven't decided what to buy yet, so might as well take a look around first."

She knew where West Street was. Gu Jinchen had taken her there before, explaining how the streets of Yiyang Town were clearly divided into districts.

West side sold rice, produce, dried goods, snacks, etc. East side sold clothing and jewelry. South side had taverns, pharmacies, etc.

North side was where the government offices were, and where some wealthy people lived. There was also an Academy there.

"West Street" here referred to the western streets in general, not just one street.

"Ok." Hearing Luo Ge's response, Sister-in-law Wang naturally had no objections.

She then led Luo Ge to the street where she usually set up her stall.

This was where the street vendors sold produce on ordinary days. Townspeople would also come sell odds and ends from home.

Gu Jinchen had brought her here before. Walking down this street and turning at the back alley led to the street that sold seeds.

Sister-in-law Wang skillfully found a rock to sit on by the roadside, placing her small egg basket from her carry basket in front of her.

"Have a seat Luo Ge. Our eggs sell themselves, let's rest a bit."

Hearing this, Luo Ge didn't stand on ceremony and sat down on the rock next to her.

Eggs were a coveted commodity nowadays that could be used for eating, postpartum care, gifts, etc, so they had no trouble selling.

Two copper coins per egg, they could easily sell 30 or more eggs very quickly.

They had barely sat down when half the eggs were already sold.

Luo Ge observed for a while before focusing her gaze on the two young people collecting produce at the end of the street.

In just this short time she saw many villagers immediately bring their goods to them as soon as they arrived - they seemed to be middlemen.

Wang Sister-In-Law had quite a few things in her stall, and she might not always be around, so finding an intermediary was the best choice.

Judging from her innate sense, those two people looked fairly reliable and not evil, but she still needed to take another look.

"Luo Ge, let's go, let's go shopping." After selling the last egg, Wang Sister-In-Law tidied up her things with a smile on her face.

Thirty-five eggs sold for seventy wen, a good profit.

Her husband usually did odd jobs in town for others, earning only ten or twenty wen a day.

Their family had three hens, each laying two or three eggs a day. Gathering them for about ten days allowed her to sell another batch, earning around one hundred and fifty or one hundred and sixty wen a month, which could cover the family's expenses for quite a while.

"Okay." Hearing this, Luo Ge went along with Wang Sister-In-Law, planning to come back when there was a chance later.


Chapter 16

They came very early from home and walked to town. After selling the eggs, it was just past 9 o'clock. The early bird gets the worm. It's usually hard to grab lard, but now there's still plenty.

At this time, most cooking oil used was lard. Naturally, Gu Family was no exception.

"How do you sell this lard?" Thinking that there was not much oil left at home, Luo Ge wanted to buy some more.

"15 wen per catty, no bargaining, all fresh."

The boss at this stall was a bearded, sturdy man who looked very overbearing and fierce. But the price he gave was a full 3 or 4 wen cheaper than the pork stall at the other end.

Hearing this price, Wang Sister-In-Law looked at her silently, then silently looked at the other stall with a kind-looking old couple selling pork. People can't judge others by their appearances.

"Please weigh two catties for me. Also give me two pork bones." The little ones were at the age of growing bodies suitable for drinking more bone broth to grow taller.

One catty of lard could be fried into half a catty or more of oil. Buying two catties of lard was just right, enough to last quite a while.

"Okay, the bones and meat won't be much, I'll count it as 5 wen for you. Do you want some meat?" Seeing that Luo Ge was not stingy, he asked another sentence.

"How much?"

"The fattier meat is 18 wen, the pure lean meat is 15 wen."

At this time, people generally liked to eat fatty meat and didn't like bony lean meat, because fatty meat had more oil and moisture.

"Give me one catty."

But Luo Ge was the kind who didn't like fatty meat, so she bought pure lean meat.

"Two catties of lard, one catty of meat, plus bones, 50 wen in total."

Luo Ge briskly settled the bill and put the things in her own carrying basket.

"I also want two catties of lard." After Luo Ge bought it, Wang Sister-In-Law also hurriedly said.

"Okay."

It was a good bargain, but Wang Sister-In-Law had a bitter face all the way, looking very upset.

"Sister-In-Law, what's wrong with you?" After walking for a while, Luo Ge really couldn't stand it anymore and asked.

Wang Sister-In-Law looked at her bitterly, poked at her heart, "I feel pain here."

"???"

"The old couple at the end looked kind. Buying more, they would also give people one or two wen change. They looked good, so I usually buy from them."

As she spoke, she felt even more heartache. The prices at that family were generally 2-3 wen more expensive than the one just now. The one or two wen change they gave back was just a small part of the money pit.

Thinking of how she had been buying meat from that family all these years, she felt a pain in her heart.

This lard was only 15 wen. When she often went to that family, they mostly sold it to her for 20 wen per catty, using the excuse of low stock.

Her heart really hurt...

Just now, she even wanted Luo Ge to go to that family. Seeing her go to that fierce big man, she was about to say something to her. After all, the big man really didn't look like a good person.

Luo Ge: "Cough cough...don't judge a book by its cover. Let's not buy from them anymore."

Apart from this, she didn't know what else to say. The money pit couldn't be gotten back.

She had also chosen the big man based on her intuition earlier. If she only looked at the surface, she would probably have been pitted like Wang Sister-In-Law.

"Alas, that's how it is. No! I still have to go gossip about it stealthily for two rounds. I can't be pitted for nothing." Saying that, Wang Sister-In-Law did it. She was optimistic by nature. Coming to sell eggs every day, she also knew a lot of people. Going to gossip for two sentences was no problem.

But it didn't seem too good to bring Luo Ge to badmouth others behind their backs, and she couldn't lead the daughter-in-law of the Jin family astray, teaching her to gossip behind people's backs.

"Didn't you say you wanted to buy seeds? You go ahead, I'll wait for you at the city gate after catching up with some people." So she decided to send Luo Ge away.

"But...wouldn't that be inappropriate?" Ruining someone's livelihood was like taking someone's life. She was worried that Wang Sister-in-Law would get into trouble.

But Wang Sister-in-Law said she had already considered this, "I won't say it outright. I'll just show off that I bought this lard cheaply today. What's wrong with that?"

Hearing this, Luo Ge raised her eyebrows silently and gave Wang Sister-in-Law a thumbs up.

"Sister can handle things, don't worry." Luo Ge made a gesture that Wang Sister-In-Law didn't really understand, but she figured it was praising her and patted her chest with a laugh.

"Go on then, be careful yourself."

"Go, go. Sister-in-law will wait for you at the city gate later."

"Okay."

After separating from Wang Sister-in-Law, Luo Ge first went to the seed shop to buy some common napa cabbage seeds at this time.

Then she came out of the shop and used her carrying basket to hide her as she took out various vegetable seeds from her space. And put them together with the seeds she just bought.

With her hand in the carrying basket, no one could notice her actions. Taking the seeds out of space only took a few seconds.

She wanted to plant quite a variety of vegetables at the time, so she bought back some seeds of each kind.

After getting the seeds, she first found a safe place with no one around and took out a basket of eggs.

Then she went to the street where they had set up their stall earlier. Seeing that the two young men were still there, Luo Ge walked over directly.

"Do you buy eggs?"

After a simple look, she found that the things they collected were quite mixed, including wild fruits and vegetables, and dry goods from the villages.

But it didn't seem like they had eggs. She wasn't sure if they wanted them.

Zhao Daming and Zhao Erming heard the voice and turned to look. Seeing a pretty girl, they couldn't help but be stunned for a moment.

"We buy them." Then they came back to their senses, somewhat embarrassed to respond. But their expressions were still somewhat puzzled.

Because eggs were not hard to sell, and people generally couldn't gather many to sell, so they usually couldn't get eggs.

They usually collected some little mountain stuff, that's all. They didn't sell in town. They came early every day to collect some things, then went to the county town to sell.

The prices in the county town could be higher by two or three wen per egg. They could also earn some travel money.

"Then see what you think of my eggs here."

Luo Ge said as she put down her carrying basket, lifted the coarse cloth on it to reveal the neatly arranged eggs inside.

Afraid they might crack, she didn't take out too many, just a few dozen in one layer, with some hay stuffed in between.

She had just counted, no less than 260 in total.

(I checked that a box of eggs is about 320, 60 small eggs is a little over 6 catties. 260 eggs is less than 30 catties. The carrying basket can hold them and she can carry them. Bigger ones of 7-8 per catty, so many eggs, also less than 40 catties, can also be held and carried. Don't nitpick, nitpicking means you're right.)

"The size is not small and they are not cracked. Miss how much do you want to sell them for?" Zhao Daming looked and asked aloud, and didn't trace back to ask where she got the eggs from.

"Our village is very far from town and it's inconvenient to come. These eggs are all from fellow villagers in the village who asked me to help sell them. This is my first time here, so you can make me an offer."

Hearing this, the two brothers revealed a look of realization. They glanced at each other and held up two fingers at Luo Ge.

"Two wen." This was the normal price. As commoners, they knew earning money was not easy. They didn't cheat people either. They had connections in the county town to sell for 5 wen apiece and could make some money.

"Okay, I counted 260 eggs when I came. You can count some."

Seeing that they didn't cheat or show embarrassment, Luo Ge directly agreed. For the first transaction, counting clearly was the best.

"Deal." The two brothers were also quick. Seeing that the deal was settled with Luo Ge, they started counting.

They were also afraid of not counting clearly and causing trouble later. It was not malicious, as they had experienced this situation before.

They had been doing this business for half a year. There were also village women who came regularly.

As people came more often and got familiar, it became easier to relax. There was once an elderly lady who, since everyone was acquainted, they assumed she wouldn't cheat them. She stated a number and they didn't bother to count.

Who would've thought that when they did count afterwards, it turned out to be less by quite a bit. When they talked to the elderly lady about it, she denied keeping accounts and even falsely accused them of deliberately calculating less to scam money.

She threw fits and rolled on the ground until finally they had no choice but to swallow the loss, but it also taught them a lesson.

"The amount is correct. I'll pay you the silver," seeing the amount was right, Zhao Daming immediately paid Luo Ge in silver.

Two hundred and sixty eggs at two coins each, earned a total of five hundred and twenty coins.

As she felt the copper coins passed to her, Luo Ge couldn't help the corners of her mouth curving up. This was the first sum of money she earned since coming to this different world, making it exceptionally meaningful.

Seeing her wearing that sweet smile, one's face would feel somewhat hot. Zhao Daming awkwardly scratched his head.

"I still have some chickens and ducks. Do you buy them too?"

"My husband told me to bring them here to sell. I don't know who would buy such things. If you want them, I'll sell them together to you."

Luo Ge paid no attention whatsoever to his reaction. Chickens and ducks were seldom sold, so she directly pulled Gu Jinchen out.

The one in charge letting it be sold probably meant the family needed money.

Hearing that the young lady already had a husband, the slight interest Zhao Daming just rose instantly died off.

"We buy them. Bring them over to weigh," chickens and ducks were rarely sold. Other than hunters occasionally selling some wild chickens, almost no one else would sell them, so the price was higher.

"Alright."

Hearing that, Luo Ge shouldered her small basket, turned around, and went to the concealed alley to take three chickens and two ducks out.

She didn't plan on mainly selling these. She just wanted to try whether the chickens and ducks from the farm would automatically replenish like the other things.

The three chickens were all a little over three pounds each. The two ducks were heavier at over five pounds together.

She eventually earned over three hundred coins. Added to the eggs, she made over eight hundred coins total.

"I'll probably bring eggs to town again sometime. I'll come find you again then, alright?" she made sure to say before leaving.

"You can. We come here every morning, but don't stay long. We basically leave a little after the third quarter past daybreak. If you come, remember to come early."

"Got it."


Chapter 17

After selling things, Luo Ge did not stay for long.

She bought some food on the street to bring back to the two little ones, and also spent three cents to buy two hair ties for tying hair, and then went to meet up with Wang Sister-In-Law.

"Luo Ge, here! Here!" Wang Sister-In-Law had already been waiting at the city gate. Seeing Luo Ge appear, she waved her hand eagerly.

"Sorry, have you been waiting for me for a long time, Sister-In-Law?"

"No no, I just got here. Let's go back now?"

"Ok."

With that said, the two walked side by side towards home.

Not until the two figures disappeared did Qian Momo withdraw her gaze. Her originally squinted eyes because of obesity narrowed even more now.

Her huge body stood out in the crowd.

"Luo Ge?" Was she the Luo Ge she was thinking of?

Feeling the uncomfortable stare disappear, Luo Ge also relaxed. Wang Sister-In-Law looked back as well.

"What's with Miss Qian, just staring at people like that. Her gaze makes people very uncomfortable."

Hearing Wang Sister-In-Law's words, Luo Ge was surprised: "Miss Qian?"

"Yes, that's right. It's the eldest daughter of the Qian Family from the village next to ours, Qian Momo, the one Old Lady Wang wanted to match with your Gu Jinchen."

"My maiden home is from the same village as her. She was staring at you just now, the fattest girl over there, very recognizable."

Afraid that Luo Ge wouldn't remember, she mentioned it again. That eldest daughter of the Qian Family has a bad temperament. She didn't get along with Qian Momo back when she was in her maiden home.

That person really has a hot temper, unreasonable, vicious and likes to bully others, similar in age. She often took advantage of her family background to oppress people.

She even fought with Qian Momo before!

Wang Sister-In-Law spoke directly, not afraid that Luo Ge would mind. After all, these two were incomparable. Anyone with eyes and a brain would know to choose Luo Ge.

"Don't worry about it, she can't possibly have any connection with your Gu Jinchen. Your family has the rule of one lifelong wife. She doesn't stand a chance."

But in the end, she was newly married, afraid Luo Ge wouldn't feel assured, so she mentioned it again.

Hearing this, Luo Ge raised her eyebrows. So the Gu family had this rule.

"Mm, Sister-In-Law you don't need to worry. I'm clear on this. I was just a bit curious."

"Curious about what, Qian Momo? I know a lot, let me tell you about her?"

A gossipy woman's nature, before Luo Ge even spoke, Wang Sister-In-Law had already started chattering.

She told her everything she knew about Qian Momo as they walked.

Hmm... Because of their hostility, there weren't many kind words. Most of it was complaints to Luo Ge.

"Let me tell you, what I regret most is feeling like I didn't perform well enough when I fought her. Her stature gave her quite an advantage."

"Even now I still feel a bit at a loss. Really want to find a chance to fight back, or I'll always feel upset about this."

That wretch falsely accused her of stealing a man, that's why she fought with her. This was a big deal, how could she not always feel upset about it?

If she hadn't been at home then, with her whole family and neighbors to prove her innocence, she really would have drowned herself.

Before parting, Wang Sister-In-Law was still very indignant.

Luo Ge listened silently, already understanding. Seeing Wang Sister-In-Law's angry expression, she could only gently comfort her.

Anyone would feel upset being falsely accused like this. Speaking it out now could also provide some relief.

"But evil will be rewarded with evil. Now I have married into a good family, my in-laws are reasonable, my husband dotes on me, and my child is obedient.

While she is still at home, an old spinster unwanted for marriage!" Thinking this, she felt much more relaxed.

"That's true." Hearing her words, Luo Ge nodded with a laugh.

"But I don't like the look in her eyes just now. That person has a vicious mind. You still need to be careful." After pondering, Wang Sister-In-Law still reminded Luo Ge.

"Mm, I'll be careful."

"Alright, I won't say more to you. It's getting late, I should go back and make dinner. Tie Dan's father and them should be back from the fields soon."

"Okay."

...When Luo Ge walked through the door, she found that the little ones at home were actually all home. The two kept glancing at the door from time to time, not knowing what they were looking at.

"What are you guys looking at?" Puzzled, she asked aloud.

As soon as she spoke, she clearly felt the man's gaze brighten. Then the two little ones rushed over.

"Little auntie!"

"Little auntie!"

"Why did you only come back now?" They spoke in unison, the last sentence seeming to carry some grievance?

"What's the matter? Did something happen at home after auntie went out?"

Seeing the two little ones so clingy, Luo Ge was a bit confused. Meeting Gu Jinchen's gentle gaze, she accidentally saw the tenderness filling his eyes, and her heart skipped a beat.

"No, Older Baby and Second Baby just missed auntie."

Before when little auntie wasn't home, the house was always quiet.

They rarely spoke.

Ever since little auntie came, the house became lively. They really liked that feeling.

Today Luo Ge went out for a bit. Huddling at home, they felt it become cold and quiet like before. So they missed Luo Ge.

Not long after she left, they started waiting for her to come back until now.

Hearing Older Baby's words, Luo Ge laughed helplessly. She rubbed the two little ones' heads and took out the buns she bought in town from her basket.

"Do you miss auntie, or the things auntie bought?"

"Here, the ones I bought for you are still warm. Eat up, let auntie make dinner."

Patting the two little ones' heads, Luo Ge wanted to go to the kitchen, but seeing a certain man's longing gaze, she paused.

Silently handing him a bun too: "Yours, I have some for you too."

That longing gaze, as if saying 'Theirs only, none for me?' Really couldn't stand it.

Sure enough, seeing her actions, that person's expression eased visibly. He first stuffed a bun into her hands before starting to eat his own.

"I'll go help you." After putting down what was in his hands, he bounced after Luo Ge into the kitchen.

The two little ones followed one after the other as well.

Luo Ge: "..."

The 'men' were really clingy today.


Chapter 18

"When I went to buy seeds today, the shop owner said this packet of seeds was brought back by his overseas business friend. He said it was a new variety, and because no one understood this type of seed, no one had bought it yet, so the price wasn't high. I thought it looked interesting so I bought it back to try planting," Luo Ge explained after finishing lunch and tidying up the kitchen.

"Then after the sun goes down later, I'll go to the fields and plant all of these," she continued.

Planting after sunset makes it easier for the soil to retain moisture and helps seeds germinate better.

"Sure, I'll go with you," Gu Jinchen said, eyes crinkling into a smile as he listened.

This man really indulges her - even with an unfamiliar new seed variety, not afraid it won't grow right or would be wasted effort - if she wants to plant it, he readily goes along.

"Great," Luo Ge replied.

After finalizing their plans, Gu Jinchen put away the items while Luo Ge watched, feeling a little bored.

Recalling the incident with Qian Momo she came across earlier, she casually mentioned it to him in a few sentences.

Gu Jinchen had never been one to gossip. He was unfamiliar with most of the happenings and news in the village, let alone other villages. Hearing Luo Ge relay Wang Sister-In-Law's words, his heart tightened with concern.

"From now on, don't go out alone. Also less contact with those ill-tempered women in the village," he cautioned, still feeling uneasy.

"If anyone bullies you, you must tell me too."

He really hadn't known that relationships among women could be so complex. Over some minor friction due to poor relations, they would actually stoop to slandering and ruining someone's reputation.

There were both good and bad people in every village. He couldn't vouch that none existed in their own village either, he could only remind her first.

"Ok, if anything comes up I can't resolve, I will definitely find my husband," Luo Ge docilely nodded, knowing he was worried for her.

"Mm," Gu Jinchen felt quite comforted hearing the dependence in his little wife's tone, involuntarily patting her head as his heart softened.

Noticing the man's action, a shy red flush crept up Luo Ge's face. This guy really liked giving surprise head pats.

But...it did feel pretty nice.

Perhaps unsettled by the presence of his watching little wife, this man made several mistakes in succession while preparing the wash basin, even almost injuring himself at one point.

Seeing this, Luo Ge was shocked, also realizing belatedly it was because she kept watching him.

"Wang Sister-In-Law wanted me to learn sewing clothes with her earlier. I'll go find her first," she muttered, discreetly finding an excuse.

"Alright."

After his little wife's departure, Gu Jinchen really did breathe a sigh of relief. He also didn't understand why he was like this - it seemed whenever Luo Ge was beside him watching, he would easily lose focus.

His gaze would invariably settle on her, leading to the mistakes.

Yet seeing her leave, his heart felt a bit empty and hollow.

Knocking his own head, he secretly ridiculed himself. "How am I becoming more and more dramatic?"

To think he used to always complain about how clingy his dad and older brother were with their wives. Now he felt like he was the clingier one.

But his heart was also genuinely happy. This must be the feeling his older brother and dad were always talking about when fond of someone, he decided.

Anyway, he really was very fond of his wife.

...On her side of things...

"Luo Ge, you came!"

"Hurry in. I was just about to come find you anyway."

Having promised earlier to teach Luo Ge sewing when she returned, Wang Sister-In-Law readily agreed. She happened to have free time this afternoon and was just thinking of going over. She hadn't expected Luo Ge to show up right then.

"I was free this afternoon, so came over," Luo Ge explained with a smile.

It was her first time entering the Wang family yard. Feeling curious, she glanced around briefly before withdrawing her gaze.

"Uncle Wang, Aunt Zhang," she called out a greeting to the elderly couple basking in the yard.

"Oh, Gu Jinchen's wife is here," Aunt Zhang called back with a laugh, turning to look over.

Uncle Wang also smiled at Luo Ge.

"Mm, I came to find sister-in-law to learn sewing," Luo Ge responded.

"Oh good, go on," they waved her in.

After exchanging greetings with the elders, Wang Sister-In-Law led Luo Ge inside.

Her husband was out after eating.

Tie Dan had also taken the two little ones out. The children had loved sneaking out lately for some unknown activities.

"What kind of style do you want to make? Let me take your measurements first," Wang Sister-In-Law asked.

"Just everyday wear is fine."

As Wang Sister-In-Law measured her, she grew more envious. This girl looked slender and petite normally without standing out much, but her figure was actually quite good! No wonder the Gu family second son doted on her so.

Slim waist, full chest, pert bottom, straight legs - truly aesthetically pleasing. Very fair skin like a child's, tender enough to ooze water.

Truly enviable.

"You have an excellent figure. All the right parts full, no excess anywhere, beautifully proportioned. This skin is also so fine and delicate," she directly praised, taking advantage to cop a few feels under guise of measuring.

"Your Gu Jinchen must really treasure you, right?" Women loved gossiping suggestively to tease others. As she spoke, she deliberately waggled her eyebrows at Luo Ge.

Luo Ge blushed lightly. "Not at all."

"I don't believe it. If it were me, I'd treasure you to death!"

"By the way, how do you maintain this skin? These hands are also soft and delicate, you look less like a country girl and more like those wealthy ladies."

To be honest, seeing Luo Ge's looks, figure and temperament, she really didn't resemble a country maiden. Instead she gave off more of a young miss from a distinguished household vibe.

Wang Sister-In-Law also felt this way.

She had been very curious about Luo Ge's background, but knowing a little about her family matters, she didn't dare ask too much to avoid bringing up bad memories.

"Really not. How could I be a young miss," Luo Ge demurred with an awkward laugh.

"Just an ordinary farming family background. My father was somewhat educated and taught me to read and write a bit, that's all. I also don't know why my skin is like this - it's been this way since I was born."

"It's not like you haven't seen me cooking and farming."

Luo Ge gave Wang Sister-In-Law a meaningful look as she explained, editing her background story.

But her skin really was innate, very delicate like a child's, unable to tan.

Frankly, she was rather proud of it. What woman didn't love beauty? As a normal woman, of course she would have normal faults, hehe.

Hearing Luo Ge's words, Wang Sister-In-Law also reacted in realization. That's right, little misses were always being waited upon by people, not doing household chores themselves like ordinary women.

Also most young ladies had a proud temperament, whereas Luo Ge was very friendly and easy to get along with.

"Yes, I was just casually joking," she awkwardly covered up her blunder. "Don't take it to heart!"

"Of course I wouldn't. Sister-in-law was basically just praising me. I'm so happy I don't know what to do," Luo Ge replied with an amused grin.

Exchanging a glance, both women broke into laughter together.

"Yes, yes, let's get started."

"Okay."

Wang Sister-In-Law was also planning to make clothes for her husband, cutting up cloth while guiding Luo Ge step-by-step.

Luo Ge listened attentively and followed along.

But naturally it wasn't possible to fully grasp it on the first try. In the end, with Wang Sister-In-Law's help she managed to get the clothes pieces cut out into shape.

The remaining sewing steps didn't require much guidance since Luo Ge already knew basic stitchwork.

"Your needlework is very neat and tight - can't even see the stitches from outside. Great work," Wang Sister-In-Law praised upon seeing Luo Ge's needle method.

"My mom taught me. I didn't get to make clothes often, just helped with stitching up the pre-cut pieces she prepared," Luo Ge added by way of explanation.

After all most girls knew how to make their own clothes at that time.

Ah, every lie told required countless more lies to prop it up. But she had no choice since her circumstances meant lying was unavoidable!

Hearing her explanation, Wang Sister-In-Law also adopted an acknowledging expression.

"Sister-In-Law Wang, do you want to learn? I can teach you. Let's learn from each other?"

"Is that okay?" She had never seen such an exquisite embroidery technique before, it must be someone's family secret.

"Why not? Didn't Sister-In-Law just teach me?"

"Well...okay then."

Sister-In-Law Wang was indeed itching to try, after hesitating for a while and seeing Luo Ge's willingness to teach, she agreed. She decided to treat Luo Ge better from now on.

Her tailoring skills were quite common, almost everyone knew how to do it, it couldn't compare to Luo Ge's embroidery skills. She must remember Luo Ge's kindness.

The cloth Gu Jinchen bought was quite a lot, it was a simple grayish blue that could be used by both men and women. There was still plenty left after cutting out what Luo Ge needed.

It just so happened that they could make some for the two little ones, their clothes used to be made by Sister-In-Law Wang who knew their measurements.

So Luo Ge asked Sister-In-Law Wang to help cut them out, and she could slowly make them at home later.


Chapter 19

Looking at the time, Luo Ge went back, put things away, and then went to the vegetable garden with Gu Jinchen.

She took out quite a few seeds suitable for this season - cabbage, spinach, loofah, bitter gourd, bok choy, etc.

There were also chili and tomato seeds, as well as ginger, scallions and garlic.

She didn't plan to plant too many scallions, ginger and garlic, just around the edges of each plot.

She would plant the two kinds of melons in one plot, and distribute the rest evenly.

After deciding the arrangement, the little couple started working.

When Gu Jinchen came, he brought some wood ash and farm fertilizer. He dug holes while she sprinkled ash; she planted seeds while he covered with soil and added fertilizer.

After that, they watered it together, then they could leave. Come back to water again tomorrow morning, and once more after sunset tonight.

They would have to water diligently for the first few days after planting to keep the soil moist so the seeds can germinate. Later, once a day is enough.

The two worked nimbly with good coordination, and finished quickly.

"Wait a moment."

As Luo Ge was washing her hands by the river, ready to go back, Gu Jinchen left her with those words and went into the woods nearby.

Just as Luo Ge was wondering, she saw him coming back with a handful of yellow skin fruit.

"Here, I tried it, it's not sour." This kind of wild yellow skin fruit from the mountains is usually very sour because of the poor soil and lack of sunlight.

This tree was unusually sweet and sour, a tasty one. He had asked Li Qiao before that women like this kind of flavor, his wife should too.

Unfortunately he went late and only these few left on the treetops could be picked, the rest had been taken.

"Let me wash them and we can take them home to eat later." Seeing his treasured offering, Luo Ge did not pretend to decline and accepted the fruit. She briefly rinsed them in the clear river water.

She was from the south originally, and had eaten this fruit before. She did like the sweet and sour taste, though too much made her mouth numb.

The couple walked home side by side. Unexpectedly, as soon as they arrived, the two little ones came back as well.

They were also holding yellow skin fruit, and each shoved the biggest, sweetest-looking one at Luo Ge.

"Auntie, eat quick, we tried them, very sweet!"

Luo Ge: "..." She subconsciously glanced back at Gu Jinchen.

Gu Jinchen: "..."

Considering the children's feelings, Luo Ge obediently lowered her head to eat two fruits, one from each child, fair and square.

"Sweet, right?"

"Sweet, right?" The two little ones spoke in unison, eyes shining.

Luo Ge smiled and nodded, "Yes, very sweet."

Gu Jinchen's face darkened a little. Hmm, his wife didn't say the ones he picked were sweet.

He didn't expect that as soon as the two little ones were satisfied and turned around, Luo Ge picked one from his bunch and brought it to his mouth.

"This one is also very sweet, why don't you try it too?" She sensed his low pressure and decided to smooth his fur.

Her heart raced a little doing this for the first time, and her face flushed slightly.

Gu Jinchen stared at her blankly, then seeing her blush, he smiled and ate the fruit from her hand.

"Yes, it's very sweet."

Not only did his wife say it's sweet, she hand-fed him too.

The man didn't show it, but was extremely happy inside. Luo Ge noticed he even swallowed the skin, and felt this guy was rather adorable.

She couldn't help breaking into a smile too.

The two little ones watched them silently from the side, and inexplicably felt their existence seemed a bit brighter.

But they were still very happy, because once Uncle and Auntie have a good relationship, they could have little brothers and sisters soon.

That's what the uncles and aunties in the village said.

They really liked little brothers and sisters, because then they could have more playmates.

"Where did you pick them?" Gu Jinchen suddenly came to his senses and glanced at the two little ones.

This kind of fruit is mostly in the mountains, did they go up the mountain?

Seeing his uncle suddenly become serious, Older Baby blinked twice, and quickly shook his head, "We didn't pick them, Grandpa Han gave them to us."

"We helped Grandpa Han with work, and he traded them with us," Second Baby quickly added.

Grandpa Han was a widower in the village. His son and daughter-in-law did business in town, and were filial.

They wanted to bring Grandpa to live with them in town, but the old man didn't like going to town and being cooped up, saying there were no old friends to accompany him there.

They couldn't persuade him and had to run their business, so could only let Father stay in the village. They would come back to see him every few days, bringing household items for the old man.

This was the season when fruits like yellow skin and longan were ripe, and rural children didn't have many snacks. They usually only had some wild fruits, eggs etc. to curb hunger.

Grandpa Han had a yellow skin tree and longan tree at home, tastier than wild mountain fruits since they were cultivated.

They happened to be ripe now, no wonder they attracted the little rascals.

These days they often went out with Tiedan, meaning to Grandpa Han's place to help with chores.

Actually they were too little to be much help, just picking up some small firewood, feeding chickens and collecting eggs etc.

The old man didn't really expect actual help from these kids. He just liked the lively company, happy to have a bunch of children running around.

The last two days the fruits weren't fully ripe so Grandpa didn't let them pick any. Seeing the yellow skins were ready today, he let them have some. The longans needed more time.

And so, the little ones got their first "income" today, and immediately ran back to share with Uncle and Auntie.

"You didn't cause trouble for Grandpa Han, did you?"

Hearing this, Gu Jinchen also felt relieved and asked. These two were really obedient, didn't do what they were told not to, or go where they shouldn't.

When he was younger Gu Jinchen had also eyed those fruit trees at Grandpa Han's place, doing similar things as these little rascals.

"No, Grandpa Han even praised us," the two little ones answered earnestly, with big smiles.

They had been afraid Grandpa Han wouldn't like them before going, but it turned out Grandpa Han was very nice to them, and even praised them.

Hearing this, Luo Ge and Gu Jinchen also smiled. Each stroked one little one's head.

"Grandpa Han is being kind to you. In the future, you should also be kinder to him, understand?" Those were a lot of fruits, the amount the two brought back must have been several catties.

The cultivated fruits were sweet and could sell for good money. The little help the kids could provide definitely didn't match the value. The old man was just fond of the lively little ones.

"Mm, Older Baby remembers."

"Second Baby remembers too." The two little ones answered solemnly.

Their obedient and cute manner was so endearing. Luo Ge couldn't help smiling wider.

Watching them, Gu Jinchen only felt sweetness in his heart, lasting all through the night.

Before going out with Gu Jinchen earlier, Luo Ge had put bone broth on to simmer. It was ready to drink now, just in time. She heated up the leftover sautéed pork with garlic shoots from lunch, and stir-fried some simple greens. The family ate dinner like this.

...That night, as Luo Ge was sleeping soundly in his arms, she suddenly felt a weight. Looking, it was another bag, but this time with not just silver but banknotes too.

A hundred taels, plus over ten taels in loose silver. Seeing this amount, Luo Ge was no longer calm.

"Why is there so much silver?" She really married a hidden rich dude!

"When I was a soldier, I did some business with brothers and earned some. Hunting in the mountains after coming back also made a bit," Gu Jinchen explained with a smile, seeing her shocked wide eyes.

"There's a bit more with me," he added honestly after thinking for a bit.

Seeing his candidness, Luo Ge's mouth opened and closed, wanting to speak yet hesitating.


Chapter 20

"With me giving you so much silver, aren't you afraid that I'll take the money and run?" After much hesitation, she finally voiced the question.

Gu Jinchen's gaze locked with hers almost immediately upon her words leaving her mouth, pulling her tightly into his embrace.

"Would you?"

He knew that she had already found where he kept the household registration. The house was so small, and he had not intentionally hidden it away.

If she wanted to find it, she certainly could.

But she had never touched that registration, and her true feelings for him and the children were obvious. So he trusted her.

But...he was still afraid. When you care for someone, you fear.

"I would not." Almost as soon as his words fell, Luo Ge decisively answered.

She would have to be a fool to run away. A man like this, and such an obedient little one, would be very difficult to find again!

And...she couldn't bear to leave.

She admitted, she had fallen for this considerate and handsome man.

Hearing these words, Gu Jinchen's smile grew broader. Lowering his head, he pressed a kiss to her lips.

"Then I naturally won't be afraid either. I trust you." He didn't understand why his feelings for her had developed so quickly, so intensely.

At first, he admired her courage, intelligence, and ability to calmly find a way to escape from the dangerous situation of being surrounded by villains.

After that, he was stunned by her beauty. She really was too pretty, with the kind of appearance that made one's heart stir and ache. She was just exactly to his taste.

Later, he was surprised by her gentle attitude towards the children. That first time Old Lady Wang came, he knew she had already awakened and heard the words from Old Lady Wang's mouth, aware of the situation of the two little ones. But she didn't show any distaste towards them at all.

On the contrary, she sympathized with them. She carefully and gently approached them, warming and caring for them in an imperceptible way.

He saw the way she treated the two little ones.

After that, he was amazed by her cooking skills. Her culinary skills were truly excellent. He admitted her dishes had completely won over his stomach.

Later, after becoming more intimate with her and having closer contact, his heart was tied tighter to hers.

He thought this was probably how he had fallen step by step.

Hearing his words, Luo Ge smiled and gently kissed back.

"Thank you." For trusting me.

The sudden kiss caught Gu Jinchen by surprise, his pupils contracting slightly.

His wife's rare initiative was truly something to be cherished!

Not giving her a chance to escape, Gu Jinchen immediately wrapped his arm around her waist, leaning his head on her shoulder, his voice low and hoarse, full of desire.

"My wife, shall we have a little one of our own?"

"Hmm...Mmph!" He asked the question but didn't give her a chance to answer at all. The moment she opened her mouth, he kissed her lips.

The light kiss deepened, pulling her into intoxication, leaving her clinging weakly to him...

That night was another sleepless one, the deep colors of shyness even more vivid than their wedding night...

It was only when the morning bell rang that Luo Ge finally fell into deep slumber.

Gu Jinchen, satiated, was brimming with energy. He took the two little ones who had risen early to practice martial arts and ran several laps around the village, still not showing any fatigue.

...

Upon waking again, Luo Ge only felt soreness throughout her body. She rubbed her aching waist and checked on the situation in her space with her mind.

After all this time verifying it, Luo Ge was certain that living things could not replenish themselves in the space.

But because the passage of time in the space was different than the outside world, the reproduction rate of living things was much faster.

After graduating from high school, she didn't have money to continue studying, so she gave up and started a street stall business instead.

She did business at the street stall for over three years before saving up enough to start a farm. Right before she transmigrated, the farm and fruit tree forest had just been set up for half a year.

The chicks and ducklings at the farm had been raised for half a year and were just starting to lay eggs. The fruit tree forest had also just been planted.

Even her little farmhouse had just been fixed up. Everything was just at the beginning stages.

But now, after coming to the Gu family and activating her space for half a month, with the space time flowing at a 1:4 ratio compared to the outside world, over a month had already passed in her space.

The chickens and ducks had grown quite a bit. Based on the 1:4 ratio, they should be able to start brooding in another two months.

By then, the farm would probably need to expand considerably. The fruit tree forest should also start bearing fruit around then.

It seemed that in the next two months, she needed to take advantage of the eggs to earn more money. That way, when the time came, having more savings would make doing business with the chickens, ducks, and fruit much easier.

The money Gu Jinchen gave her, along with what she earned selling eggs, she had all put into her space.

Although it was not a small sum and should be enough to start up a business, there was no harm in having more money right? If she could earn more, she naturally wanted to earn more.

"Wife, you're awake?" Just as she was lost in thought, Gu Jinchen walked in. Seeing her sitting up in bed with slightly disheveled hair looking blankly cute, he couldn't help reaching out to pull her into his embrace.

His big hand gently massaged her lower back. "Does it hurt a lot?" A hot bath should make her feel much better.

Luo Ge tilted her head to look at him, lazily resting her head on his shoulder.

"It hurts." Her voice was soft, as if she was whining.

She felt sore all over. This guy was too much of a beast, and her petite body had trouble keeping up.

Women who acted coquettishly were fortunate, she believed this saying. Plus, acting a little coy with her own man now and then was harmless.

Her dependent action caused Gu Jinchen's ears to redden slightly, softening his heart and making him feel somewhat distressed.

"I just boiled water. I'll bring some in for you to soak in?"

"Okay."