Chapter 61
Clang!
As soon as Jinhua finished speaking, Zhou Jiaojiao jumped to her feet, so agitated that her chair toppled over. Staring at Jinhua as if she had seen a ghost, Zhou Jiaojiao felt an intense jealousy burning within her, leaving her in utter disbelief.
How could this be?
Shouldn't such good fortune in the village come to her?
She had always been so lucky these past years. Why wasn't she chosen for the Women's Federation?
Though it didn't offer much money, how prestigious would it sound?
Her sudden outburst startled Jinhua.
The rest of Wang's family were equally incredulous, each one looking from Bai Xiuxiu to Zhou Jiaojiao.
It was as if they had truly seen a ghost.
Bai Xiuxiu observed their reactions and, amidst their disbelieving gazes, smiled as she spoke: "Thank you, Auntie Jinhua. Thank you for giving me this opportunity, and for making so many trips on my behalf."
"What's there to thank? You're the most educated woman in our village. With your frail health, and neither your sister nor mother around, this job is perfect for you."
Jinhua's cheerful words only deepened the family's doubts about reality.
"But... How can she do it? Jinhua, you don't understand. My daughter-in-law here is lazy and gluttonous. If there's a vacancy in the Women's Federation, why not consider our younger daughter-in-law? She'd be the right choice."
Zhao Guifen pushed Zhou Jiaojiao forward, unwilling to accept the situation.
What a joke! If Bai Xiuxiu worked in the Women's Federation, wouldn't it cause them endless trouble?
Even without working there, she frequently went to the county's Women's Federation to complain. What would happen if she joined the local branch?
Prestige was one thing, but how would they continue to take advantage of others?
No, absolutely not!
Hearing Zhao Guifen's words, Jinhua was displeased. "When has there been a vacancy in our Women's Federation? Your eldest daughter-in-law has been my top choice for a long time. Your younger daughter-in-law won't do. Zhao Guifen, I know you're biased, but you can't go too far.
To say such things in front of me, and then claim you want this job for your younger daughter-in-law, what else would you do behind my back?"
Embarrassed, Zhao Guifen remained silent. Though she was domineering at home, she was intimidated by the captain's wife.
Wang Shoucheng, calculating in his mind, quickly pulled his wife aside. "Guifen, what nonsense are you spouting? Even if you're worried about our eldest daughter-in-law's health affecting her work, you can't suggest sending our younger daughter-in-law instead. The Women's Federation doesn't have to choose someone from our family.
While our younger daughter-in-law is capable and well-educated, who decides the selection isn't something we should interfere with."
Jinhua was thoroughly disgusted by the family's behavior. "Choosing Xiuxiu for this position was a decision made by our village, and it has already been reported to the commune, which agreed. Zhao Guifen, we chose Xiuxiu to prevent anyone from bullying her.
Her sister has gone to join the military, and we can't let her sister suffer alone in our village.
You'd better watch yourself. As a mother-in-law, if you continue to mistreat her, it won't be as simple as before.
Xiuxiu, tomorrow morning, follow me to our brigade. I'll show you around and introduce you to our work."
"I'll wait for you tomorrow, Auntie Jinhua." Bai Xiuxiu saw her off.
Her obedient demeanor only reinforced Jinhua's belief that she had made the right decision.
After seeing Jinhua off, Bai Xiuxiu returned inside, no longer as docile as she appeared earlier.
Upon entering, she met their strange gazes and calmly sat down to resume eating.
Zhao Guifen expected an explanation, but when Bai Xiuxiu simply continued eating, she couldn't contain her frustration. "Eldest daughter-in-law, what's going on? Why didn't you tell the family about something so important?"
"What should I have said?" Bai Xiuxiu glanced at her, asking in return.
"About joining the Women's Federation. It's a big deal. Can you even handle it? You can't even cook properly. Giving you this job would be a waste! If you had spoken up earlier, we could have given it to our younger daughter-in-law, and our family's future..."
Smack.
Before Zhao Guifen could finish, Bai Xiuxiu's bowl flew and struck her face.
This sudden action silenced everyone in the room.
The bowl fell from Zhao Guifen's face onto the table. Her face darkened, and her eyes flared with anger. "You... You dare hit me?"
"What's wrong? If you, as a mother-in-law, can spew nonsense, can't I stop you?" Bai Xiuxiu showed no fear, shooting her a disdainful look.
"You dare insult me?" Zhao Guifen was seething.
Bai Xiuxiu scoffed. "What's wrong with insulting you? Giving the Women's Federation position to our younger daughter-in-law, my husband hunting for your beloved second and fifth sons, to bring game to the city for gifts and jobs. Once the fifth son marries, you keep hinting at taking my room.
You're getting too arrogant. What's wrong with me scolding you?"
"Listen to this! This daughter-in-law is rebelling. I'm going to find Jinhua right now. I'll report you for being disrespectful. Let's see if you can still join the Women's Federation." Zhao Guifen trembled with rage, rising to leave.
"Go ahead. Actually, I wanted to make a suggestion. We've obtained quite a lot from the mountains recently. I think organizing the village women to go together for shared prosperity would be great. Although there would be less to share among more people, every little bit counts, right?"
As she spoke, Bai Xiuxiu also stood up to leave.
Zhao Guifen grabbed her arm. "You're not going!"
"Eldest sister-in-law, your mom is being foolish; why are you being foolish with her? If we reveal our quiet path to wealth, how will we live our lives?" Wang Shoucheng was also taken aback. Has the eldest sister-in-law really lost all sense?
"Yeah, big sister-in-law, Mom just feels sorry for me. You know I was pampered by my parents since childhood and have never done any farm work. Mom thinks I'm two years younger than you, so she wants you to give in to me." Zhou Jiaojiao spoke up pitifully.
"Do you know that you're two years younger than me? I thought you were still breastfeeding, always needing others to yield to you. Your parents may dote on you, but I'm not your parent. Why tell me these things?" Bai Xiuxiu glanced at her with a mocking expression, which only fueled Zhou Jiaojiao's anger even more.
She had never suffered such indignity! Why is Bai Xiuxiu so annoying? She gets all the good things and doesn't spare anyone with her words?
Zhou Jiaojiao managed a strained smile: "I don't mean anything by it. I'm just worried that big sister-in-law might misunderstand Mom."
Chapter 62
"Sister-in-law, we're all family. Whether you work for the Women's Federation or I do, it's the same. After all, any extra income we earn is shared equally among us, right?" Zhou Jiaojiao thought through various scenarios and decided to take control of Bai Xiuxiu's future salary first.
Now that the job was more respectable, the money should still go to the family, shouldn't it? It couldn't be that everything good went to Bai Xiuxiu alone, could it?
Finally, they were getting to the point?
Bai Xiuxiu sat back down on her stool.
The family brightened when Zhou Jiaojiao brought up this topic.
Zhao Guifen found a new excuse: "That's right, Old Fifth's wife is correct. I was just worried about you before. I thought you wouldn't have to work and could still share in the earnings, but who knew you wouldn't appreciate it?"
"Eldest Sister-in-law, our family rules can't be changed willy-nilly," Wang Shoucheng said, feeling relieved. Old Fifth's wife was much smarter than his own.
Although the Women's Federation didn't pay much, it still shouldn't benefit Eldest Brother's family.
And it wasn't a small amount over the course of a year!
Bai Xiuxiu watched their performance. Once they had finished speaking, she smiled. "You mentioned that it's extra income. If I join the Women's Federation, I won't have to work in the fields anymore. My husband won't have to do extra work for me either.
This isn't extra income."
Zhao Guifen became even more excited. "Isn't that better? The regular income of the family is in my hands."
"Oh, speaking of which, I wanted to tell you that from this year onward, the grain and money my husband and I receive in autumn will no longer be handled by you." Bai Xiuxiu spoke casually.
"Eldest Sister-in-law, are you trying to split the family?" Wang Shoucheng narrowed his eyes, looking somewhat fierce.
"No? Didn't we still pool our money together? We still need to divide what we find in the mountains among ourselves. How could we be splitting the family?" Bai Xiuxiu asked them in surprise.
Wang Shoucheng felt uneasy. "What do you mean? This matter can't be agreed upon by your mother, your brothers, and me."
"If you don't agree? Everyone in the village knows about the things we find in the mountains. Perhaps the team leader might even give me credit for it. Anyway, with or without the harvest from the mountains, I can manage." With that, she picked up the two children and started to leave.
"Don't let her go! She's really going too far. All of you, stop her quickly."
Wang Shoucheng finally couldn't hold back his anger after days of suppressing it and shouted loudly.
The other men in the family got up to stop her, but Wang Qinghe blocked them alone.
Wang Qinghe took the stick used for mixing cement and soil and held it in his hand, standing in front of his wife as he looked at his brothers.
"Eldest Brother, what do you mean by this?" Wang Shoucheng was stunned. What was his eldest son doing? Was he planning to attack his younger brothers?
Wang Qinghe looked at Wang Shoucheng and spoke in the same tone as usual. "I don't care what you think about the family. I've done whatever you've asked me to do. But no one is allowed to touch Xiuxiu. Whatever she wants to do, no one can interfere.
Dad, anyway, they can't beat me. They shouldn't make a move, and I won't either. Don't waste money taking them to the doctor."
"Have you lost your mind? Your wife is cutting off our family's source of income!" Wang Shoucheng was so angry that he wished he could overturn the table.
"You could just agree to her demands. Xiuxiu isn't asking for your lives," Wang Qinghe thought this whole family was being unreasonable. Xiuxiu and he hadn't caused trouble for anyone else; they were the ones causing trouble for Xiuxiu.
So what if Xiuxiu didn't like working? He did it, didn't he?
So what if she wanted to keep the money herself? Wasn't it hers?
She used to do whatever she wanted. Why couldn't she do so after marrying him?
Wang Shoucheng felt as if someone had grabbed his throat, unable to utter a single word in response to his son's audacious words.
The biggest mistake he had ever made was giving in to Wang Qinghe that time and bringing Bai Xiuxiu into the family!
This Bai Xiuxiu—was she really a daughter-in-law? She was more like a troublemaker.
Bai Xiuxiu stood behind Wang Qinghe, thoroughly enjoying the sight of her family's frustration.
"What if she keeps the money herself, and your other brothers want to do the same?" Wang Shoucheng asked his eldest son unhappily.
"That's their business. We won't interfere. Anyway, if I can't keep the money myself this year, there won't be any more good fortune from the mountains for our family," Bai Xiuxiu remained unmoved.
Zhao Cuihua was a little tempted, but she still had some sense.
Eldest Brother and Sister-in-law could do this because Eldest Brother worked hard, and Father-in-law relied on him to hunt in the mountains.
As for Sister-in-law, Father-in-law knew that she could cause a complete breakdown, cutting off the family's source of income.
But the others couldn't do it!
Everyone needed money. Second Sister-in-law would rather stretch a penny to be worth ten. As for her, she needed money for both her natal family and herself. As for Fourth Brother's family? Although Chen Fang's parents seemed well-off, Chen Fang also had older and younger brothers.
It was enough that they didn't ask for anything from her.
Old Fifth and his wife were the key figures in this matter and would never cut off the family's source of income.
If Sister-in-law acted badly and forced Zhou Jiaojiao to lead the way to find things, then everything would belong to the village in the future.
Then, the reputation would be Sister-in-law's, the benefits would be everyone's, and they would be left with nothing.
Therefore, only Eldest Brother and Sister-in-law could bring this up.
How happy would it be to keep the money themselves?
After a standoff, Wang Shoucheng conceded. "Fine, we'll do as you say. When the autumn harvest comes, you two can keep your share. You can also keep your salary!"
Wang Shoucheng felt even more depressed. He had originally thought that if he couldn't squeeze any more money out of his eldest son, his eldest daughter-in-law's salary would be a good alternative.
But now, his eldest daughter-in-law had caused this commotion.
The harvest from the mountains far exceeds the wages of the Eldest Brother's wife.
Bai Xiuxiu has gauged this family's thoughts well; after causing more trouble, they should propose the division of the household soon enough.
Before that happens, she needs to get as much as she can from this family. Besides, the fish she's been reeling in should be biting soon. Old Fifth's wife hated her in her previous life, which is why she had someone push her into the water. She probably hates her even more now, doesn't she?
This shouldn't take too long either.
She must first send Old Fifth's wife's sister-in-law from her natal home to prison! Ideally, she could drag Old Fifth's wife out with her.
Soon enough, the entire family retreated from the main house.
After Zhou Jiaojiao came out, seeing Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe return to their room, the jealousy in her heart was more sour than the vinegar at home.
Going to the Women's Federation? She'd have to have that good fortune!
"Jiaojiao, what are you looking at? Hurry up and go back inside. The most important thing for us right now is to have a child!" Wang Qingqi pulled his wife, noticing her in a daze.
In an instant, Zhou Jiaojiao felt suffocated. "I have something I need to do at my natal home. I'll be back later."
With that, she left Wang Qingqi behind.
Early morning.
Wang Qinghe, after breakfast, started helping his wife prepare the things she needed for today's outing.
Once everything was packed, he headed for the mountains.
Bai Xiuxiu didn't wait long at home before Aunt Jinhua arrived. "Xiuxiu, have you had breakfast yet? Let's go to the brigade."
Chapter 63
"I've just eaten, Auntie Jinhua. Why don't you rest for a bit? We can have some water before we go." Bai Xiuxiu invited her into the house.
By now, the two children were already dressed neatly, each carrying a small cloth bag containing their toys.
The Women's Federation office was located at the brigade headquarters, which had a spacious courtyard where the two kids could play.
Chen Jinhua hurriedly declined. "I won't have any water today. Director Xiao Wang is waiting to hand over the duties to me. The few of us in the Women's Federation can manage. There's quite a lot to do, so let's set off."
"Alright, I'll lock the door, and we'll leave. Mingming, Yueyue, it's time to go out."
Bai Xiuxiu took the two children with her and locked the door.
As Chen Jinhua looked at Bai Xiuxiu's children, she thought about her own sister who had been unable to conceive for several years. Although her sister wasn't mistreated by her in-laws, she always felt insecure.
If her sister had a child, wouldn't life be smoother for her?
The Wang family members working in the yard felt uneasy seeing Bai Xiuxiu leaving with Chen Jinhua.
The job at the Women's Federation was prestigious no matter how one looked at it.
How nice would it be if it fell on his own wife?
The one who felt the most aggrieved was Liu Xiaoe, hiding in the kitchen.
Liu Xiaoe watched Bai Xiuxiu, dressed neatly, leading her two children away with Chen Jinhua. Her nails dug into the windowsill almost cracking them.
Why did my sister-in-law have such good luck? She had a son, a caring older sister, and mother, and even her brother listened to her. She didn't have to work!
And yet, this job still fell on her?
"Second daughter-in-law? Hurry up and boil some water. Make some saltwater for everyone to drink. They're doing physical labor, they need saltwater," Wang Shoucheng's voice carried through the walls into the kitchen.
In the kitchen, Liu Xiaoe felt even more heartbroken.
Why was her fate so bitter?
She was the only one who stayed home every day to take care of the elderly and the whole family.
Everyone else had proper jobs.
Though she felt wronged, Liu Xiaoe didn't dare show it on her face. She vented her anger by stoking the fire.
Bai Xiuxiu followed Chen Jinhua outside. In an empty spot, she secretly took out the small cloth bag that Wang Qinghe had prepared for her from her large cloth bag. Inside was a pound of red sugar, ten eggs, and the fabric her sister had given her.
She had cut three feet of the fabric. It wasn't enough for adult clothing, but it was suitable for making smaller items.
"Auntie Jinhua, you've been busy helping me. My husband and I have nothing to thank you with. Please accept these things. When we have better things in the future, we will thank you again." Bai Xiuxiu handed the small cloth bag to her.
"Oh, what are you doing?" Chen Jinhua said this, but she didn't refuse.
This trip had indeed required effort on her part for Bai Xiuxiu, and she had offended others. After all, who wouldn't want a job that didn't require work and came with money?
It was also prestigious and desirable for those with ambition.
The merged brigade of three villages certainly wasn't short of people.
She had offended others, so she accepted the gift without guilt.
Chen Jinhua took the items and felt them, knowing what was inside. Indeed, Xiuxiu knew how to handle people. The items inside were currently scarce.
Looking at Bai Xiuxiu, she felt even closer to her. "Xiuxiu, I won't refuse your gift. But I know you're grateful. Don't give me anything else in the future. I won't feel right accepting it."
Chen Jinhua held the cloth bag, feeling even more that Bai Xiuxiu knew how to handle people. Carrying it like this made it seem as if it was her own, and there was no need to hide it.
When they arrived at the brigade headquarters, there weren't many people around. Apart from the accountant and the brigade leader who came every day, the others were either busy with their own affairs or attending meetings at the commune or working at home.
The commune's brigade consisted of six tiled houses with a neat, two-meter-high wall surrounding the courtyard. The courtyard itself was levelled.
Seeing Chen Jinhua arrive, the brigade leader nodded when he saw his wife bringing Bai Xiuxiu's eldest daughter-in-law. "Xiao Wang is waiting for you. Go ahead."
"I'll go right away. By the way, the food in our pot is still warm. Mom wasn't feeling well and didn't eat when I left. Take a break later and make sure Mom eats." Chen Jinhua instructed her husband briefly before taking Bai Xiuxiu into the room.
Inside was a large table made by joining four small tables together.
There were three people in the room.
One of them was a tall woman in her thirties wearing military green clothes and sporting short hair.
She was the busiest, showing the other two various documents and discussing them.
Upon seeing Bai Xiuxiu and Chen Jinhua enter, she greeted them. "Auntie Chen, you're here? We've been waiting for you. I've almost finished handing over everything. Here's your portion. I still need to go to the commune to complete my registration. Time is tight.
Now that you're here, you can take over the remaining tasks?
If there's anything you're not familiar with, come find me at the commune later."
Hearing this, Chen Jinhua was delighted.
What she feared most was that Director Xiao Wang would leave with a long list of requirements.
Since she was leaving now, it was perfect.
Chen Jinhua accepted everything Director Xiao Wang handed over. "Director, don't worry. I'll definitely manage the Women's Federation well and cause you less trouble. May everything go smoothly for you at the commune."
"Thanks, Sister Chen Jinhua. I'll be on my way then."
Director Wang works as briskly as Chen Jinhua does.
Once they left, Chen Jinhua felt much more at ease and looked at the other two. "Let me introduce you. This is Bai Xiuxiu from Xiahe Village."
"You can call me Xiuxiu." Bai Xiuxiu smiled amicably.
"Xiuxiu, the one in the blue shirt on the left is Liu Xiaohui from Shanghe Village. She's a bit older than you, twenty-six this year. She took over my old position. You can call her Sister. The one in the green shirt on the right is Xiao Miao. She's the daughter of the village head of Zhonghe Village, just turned twenty.
You can call her Miao. She does the same work as you.
From now on, when we go to mediate family disputes, you two will come with us.
You two will be responsible for taking notes."
Chen Jinhua introduced the three young women in the room to each other.
Liu Xiaohui is now the second-in-command in this room.
She looks like someone not to be trifled with, but she is friendly.
Miao is curious about Bai Xiuxiu. The main office is in Xiahe Village, so she walks around the village.
Bai Xiuxiu's mother-in-law often spoke ill of her, saying she was lazy, but Jinhua Auntie recently dispelled that rumor.
The few people in the room greeted each other and quickly became familiar.
They were all part of the same team, so they got to know each other quickly.
"We don't have many major issues every day. If a wife or mother-in-law comes crying to complain, we just need to go and mediate."
Chapter 64
Chen Jinhua retold them about the Women's Federation, mainly for Bai Xiuxiu's benefit, as she was the most recent addition to their group.
"Aside from that, we receive an annual welfare package from the brigade, which every woman in the village gets. We distribute these around this time of year. Additionally, we need to keep an eye on the elderly women living alone; there's a list for them in our village.
The three of you were specifically chosen so that each of your villages would be covered conveniently.
Each of you will be responsible for the elderly women in your respective villages, delivering the items the team sends them regularly.
Disputes should also be handled similarly.
This way, it's more manageable for us, as conducting our work isn't always easy."
After discussing the main responsibilities, Chen Jinhua continued with the wages provided by the village: "Although we're part of the Women's Federation, our salaries come from the team. Only at the commune level do we receive the same pay as others. In the village, ours are slightly lower. Xiuxiu and Miaomiao get ten yuan per month.
I get thirteen yuan a month, while Xiaohui receives twelve.
There are only four of us in this room, all from the same team, so no conflicts, please."
"Relax, Auntie Jinhua. What could we possibly fight about?" Miaomiao showed great enthusiasm for Bai Xiuxiu's arrival. After all, they were close in age, making it easier for them to bond.
Chen Jinhua nodded in satisfaction, preparing to call them over to look through what Director Wang had left, when someone burst into the room.
"There's trouble. Jinhua, hurry to the Wu family. Their youngest daughter-in-law is causing a scene again with her mother-in-law. Old Wu's wife is getting on in years; how can she endure such daily turmoil?" The team leader spoke with a heavy heart and a furrowed brow.
The Wu family?
At the thought of the battles between Old Wu's wife and her daughter-in-law, Chen Jinhua felt a headache coming on.
"You three... Never mind, Miaomiao and Xiuxiu, come with me. Xiaohui, stay here and watch over things. We can't leave this place unattended. Keep an eye on Xiuxiu's two children and make sure they don't wander out of the courtyard." With that, Chen Jinhua headed out.
Liu Xiaohui sighed in relief at not having to go.
Last time she went, she almost got scratched up by the Wu family's daughter-in-law.
Even Director Wang, with her strong presence, had her hair pulled loose during the incident.
She really didn't want to go, but thankfully, there was a new member today. Thank goodness for Xiuxiu!
Bai Xiuxiu followed Chen Jinhua outside, who began recounting the family's grievances.
"Xiuxiu, once we arrive at the Wu family, you must stay behind me. Miaomiao too. Don't let the Wu family's youngest daughter-in-law catch you." Chen Jinhua looked grim, still shaken by thoughts of the youngest daughter-in-law.
She had seen many boisterous people over the years, but none like this one.
Bai Xiuxiu was familiar with Uncle Wu's family; she and Qinghe had discussed them just a few days ago.
The Wu residence wasn't far from the team office, and by the time they arrived, a crowd had gathered outside the Wu home.
After the autumn harvest, everyone had little to do. While some ventured into the mountains, each household left a couple of people behind. With nothing else to do, they naturally gathered to watch the commotion.
"Move aside! Make way for us to pass," Chen Jinhua urged the onlookers to clear a path. She knew she couldn't stop them from watching, and she didn't have the authority to do so.
As they pushed through the crowd, they saw the chaotic state of the courtyard.
Tools lay scattered on the ground, and even the dried vegetables were strewn everywhere. The Wu family's youngest daughter-in-law sat on the ground, holding her child, crying and cursing: "You old hag, what else can you do besides play the victim?
My husband and I work tirelessly throughout the year, saving money and food, which you give away to others.
Look at your third son and your two daughters?
How well are they doing? Now look at my husband and me; we can barely afford to eat. If my family hadn't sent some food last year, I would have starved.
This year, when I bought something for them, you said I didn't know how to manage our finances. How can you be so cruel?"
She sobbed, while the person she was addressing, Auntie Wu, stood in the corner, wiping tears and trying to speak, but then continued crying. Several bruises marred her face, clearly from being struck by something.
Seeing this, Chen Jinhua felt overwhelmed.
She reminded herself that she was now the head of the Women's Federation in the village and couldn't back down. It was Xiuxiu's first day, and she needed to set a good example.
"Miaomiao, why did you hit your mother-in-law again? Didn't you promise never to do it again? Today, I'll have to take you away." As soon as Chen Jinhua finished speaking, Zhang Sixi, sitting on the ground, went berserk.
She grabbed a nearby hoe and aimed it at her own head: "Take me where? Are you trying to scare me into going to jail? Let me tell you, I'm not afraid of anything anymore. They're all living well, leaving my husband and me behind.
If I can't live well, I'll cause trouble every day.
If you take me away, I'll die in front of you!"
"Don't..." Chen Jinhua panicked. If Zhang Sixi hurt herself, the Wu family might blame her.
Pleased with her reaction, Zhang Sixi sat back down: "You came at the right time. Aren't you from the Women's Federation? I'm a woman too, so you should help me, right? This whole family bullies me. If you want to take anyone away, take that old woman first."
"How am I supposed to see that you're being bullied?" Chen Jinhua was infuriated by Zhang Sixi's audacity.
Zhang Sixi scoffed: "If you don't solve the problem, I'll hit her every day. If you want to take me away, I'll die in front of you."
Chen Jinhua felt utterly defeated!
Bai Xiuxiu watched Zhang Sixi and suddenly spoke up: "Fine, if you want to die, we won't stop you. But once you're gone, your child will have a stepmother immediately."
"Xiuxiu?" Chen Jinhua was startled.
Zhang Sixi glared: "If I die, you'll all suffer too."
"With everyone watching, your desire to die has nothing to do with us. You're wearing new clothes, your hair is shiny black, and your face is as round as Auntie Wu's. You're eating well and dressed nicely. Do you really want to die?
Don't try to scare us. If you hit someone, you must take legal responsibility.
You're no stranger to violence, and now you're refusing mediation, even threatening further assault.
If you're unwilling to come with us, we'll file a report and wait for the authorities to take you."
Bai Xiuxiu turned on her heel and walked away.
Zhang Sixi panicked at once. "You're not allowed to go."
Chapter 65
Now, Chen Jinhua also saw through Zhang Sixi's act—how could she bear to die?
Having figured this out, Chen Jinhua was no longer flustered and straightened her back. "Why can't she leave? Xiuxiu, you should report this now. It's only been a few days, and she's already hitting people again."
"No, I... I won't hit anyone anymore," Zhang Sixi panicked. The method her mother taught her didn't work.
Didn't they say that if she acted desperate, they wouldn't be able to do anything about it?
"Hmph, you said the same thing last time," Chen Jinhua sneered.
"Really, this time I really won't hit anyone. I'm just forced into this situation. Can you imagine how hard my life is right now?" Zhang Sixi felt wronged as she spoke.
"Enough, stop crying. We live in the same village; I know what kind of person you are. Will you listen to mediation this time?" Chen Jinhua didn't want to hear Zhang Sixi's sobbing and didn't truly intend to send her to the police station.
Zhang Sixi quickly assured her, "I will."
"Xiuxiu, you record this."
Chen Jinhua thought about how to mediate the situation.
Bai Xiuxiu went to the corner and helped Aunt Wu over. The elderly woman had been crying from pain and fear.
Seeing that Aunt Jinhua intended to settle things amicably, Bai Xiuxiu felt that this wouldn't solve the problem. Aunt Wu was soft-tempered, while Zhang Sixi was like this. Even after mediation, she would continue bullying people.
Reporting her and having her spend a few days in jail would be best!
"Aunt Wu, why did you two argue today?" Chen Jinhua looked at the elderly woman being helped over.
The old lady cried uncontrollably. "Sixi's third brother came back yesterday with some food and a few yards of fabric. Winter is coming soon, so we wanted to make a warm coat for the old man. But she saw it and demanded the fabric.
The old man's clothes are so worn out they can't be mended anymore, so I refused to give it to her.
She got angry and started smashing things early this morning."
"Don't pretend to be pitiful. You have four children, two daughters and your third son who are all doing well. They've given you plenty of good things. Only my family and my husband are struggling. If you weren't biased, why would all the good things go to others?
Why is our fourth son so useless?" Zhang Sixi became angry when she mentioned others.
Chen Jinhua felt a headache coming on. The Wu family had argued about this many times.
"Why don't you ask your fourth son why he's not successful? What does Aunt Wu have to do with it? If you don't want to live with the elders, our village can help you separate households," Bai Xiuxiu glanced at Zhang Sixi, her tone mocking.
There was no way Zhang Sixi would separate households. In her previous life, Aunt Wu's third son took the couple away, indicating he wasn't an ungrateful person.
Using this matter to pressure Zhang Sixi would calm her down for a few days.
Sure enough, Zhang Sixi's expression changed instantly. "Who are you? Why should we separate households? Is this how you handle matters and help?"
"What else? Take you to the police station and charge you with intentional assault?" Bai Xiuxiu asked her.
This question silenced Zhang Sixi once more.
She didn't want to go to prison; she still wanted to live a good life.
Separating households was absolutely unacceptable. If they separated, these two old people would keep all the good things out of their reach.
"Aunt Wu, you don't need to be afraid of your daughter-in-law. You don't owe her anything. We'll record what happened this time. Starting tomorrow, we'll visit you regularly to check if you have any injuries and see how you're living.
If there's anything wrong, we'll report it. She'll have to serve a few years in prison for intentional assault.
Don't feel sorry for her. When she hits you, your third son and your two daughters will worry about you, and the whole family won't be able to live peacefully."
Bai Xiuxiu's words touched the old lady's heart.
Especially thinking about her children worrying, she immediately realized she couldn't indulge her daughter-in-law anymore.
Before, she had no choice. Her daughter-in-law threatened suicide every day and caused trouble. She was afraid something would happen to her daughter-in-law, leaving her grandson behind.
However, Zhang Sixi didn't actually want to die today.
The old lady's thoughts suddenly became clearer.
Chen Jinhua also agreed. "Yes, Aunt Wu, we'll visit you regularly from now on. We live close since we're in the same village. Zhang Sixi, did you hear that? If you dare to lay a hand on your mother-in-law again, I'll send you to prison.
Look at how badly you beat the old lady?
What are you waiting for? Apologize to your mother-in-law."
"An apology isn't sincere enough. Why not let her hit back? She's quite skilled at it, isn't she?" Bai Xiuxiu whispered to Chen Jinhua.
Chen Jinhua suddenly found this idea brilliant!
"Zhang Sixi, do to yourself what you did to Aunt Wu just now," Chen Jinhua pointed at Zhang Sixi.
Zhang Sixi's expression darkened. "Are you trying to kill me?"
"Don't exaggerate. You hit Aunt Wu, and she's still alive. She's not as strong as you."
Bai Xiuxiu's gaze, filled with amusement, provoked Zhang Sixi to the point where she wished she could pounce on Bai Xiuxiu.
"Enough, stop stalling. Hurry up and hit yourself to apologize to Aunt Wu. I doubt you'll learn from just a verbal apology. Aunt Wu, watch closely. See if she hits herself properly or tries to skip a few strikes." Chen Jinhua urged her to hurry.
Zhang Sixi's eyes reddened with grievance, yet she still moved. She didn't want to go to prison or have a separate household.
When she started hitting herself, everyone was stunned.
So Zhang Sixi treated Aunt Wu like this earlier?
Fists and even a water-carrying yoke used to hit people?
In no time, the people outside the courtyard began to gossip. When they came over for the spectacle, Old Lady Wu was already squatting in the corner, listening to her daughter-in-law berating her.
After just a few moments, it became clear that this daughter-in-law, Zhang Sixi, was truly ruthless.
Aunt Wu felt much better watching her own daughter-in-law beating herself. Lately, Zhang Sixi had been secretly hitting her more and more often. Before, it was just a few hits behind closed doors, but now she seemed intent on ending her life.
The last time it was particularly harsh, she made a scene.
The outcome was that the Women's Federation members were driven away by Zhang Sixi's antics, and she promised not to hit anyone anymore.
But there were still plenty of secret beatings. Feeling wronged, she cried to the old man. Whenever he said just a word or two, their son would side with his wife, causing chaos at home.
Now, to prevent further disturbances, the old man had gone hunting in the mountains, all to provide something good to eat for these two ravenous ones.
It was only yesterday that the old man gave a rabbit to his third son to take back to the city. And that sparked another uproar...
Living like this, she felt like there was no hope left.
Watching her daughter-in-law in such a pitiful state, Old Lady Wu felt a sense of comfort for the first time in years.
After hitting herself, Zhang Sixi's eyes were swollen from crying as she glared at Bai Xiuxiu and the others. "Are you satisfied now?"
"This isn't for us to say; you should ask your mother-in-law. What do you think, Sister Old Wu?" Jinhua looked at Old Lady Wu.
Chapter 66
"Alright... alright. As long as she doesn't hit me anymore, that's fine." Grandma Wu nodded through her tears.
"Rest assured, we'll visit you regularly from now on. If we find even one new bruise on you, we'll report her and have her locked up. And if you feel wronged, we'll call your son back and make sure you're separated from her!"
Chen Jinhua was a smart woman, and she quickly identified the leverage Bai Xiuxiu had mentioned—what Zhang Sixi feared most.
Looking at Zhang Sixi, still sitting on the ground: "Zhang Sixi, stop sitting there and start cleaning up the yard. Alright, everyone, let's disperse. We're all neighbors, so if she bullies Grandma Wu again, remember to come to the brigade and help raise the alarm."
Chen Jinhua, looking at the docile Zhang Sixi, was glad she had brought Xiuxiu today.
Xiuxiu seemed quiet and pretty, but she was sharp-minded.
She could see right through Zhang Sixi and knew what she feared.
This had made Zhang Sixi behave immediately.
The Wu household should be peaceful for a while now, and it would also reflect well on her.
Under their watchful eyes, Zhang Sixi took her son back inside and started tidying the yard.
Grandma Wu wanted to help, but Bai Xiuxiu stopped her.
It was best to let Zhang Sixi do this alone. If Grandma Wu helped, Zhang Sixi might think she was soft-hearted and try to manipulate her again.
"Alright, you two need to get along. The New Year is coming, and there mustn't be any more trouble. In a couple of days, our brigade will distribute food and money," Chen Jinhua said, painting a picture of better times ahead, before leaving with Bai Xiuxiu.
"Did you record everything?"
"Yes, we recorded her hitting herself on a separate sheet. It's part of the record of her abusing Grandma Wu."
Miaomiao handed over the records to Chen Jinhua.
Chen Jinhua felt even more content. With Bai Xiuxiu and Miaomiao by her side, handling these domestic disputes was both easier and dignified.
"You two did well. Let's go rest. In a few days, when I cook chicken soup at home, I'll bring some for you both to nourish yourselves."
She spoke with great confidence.
Bai Xiuxiu and Miaomiao thanked her.
When the three returned to the brigade, the captain and the accountant were discussing something. Seeing them return, the captain was surprised. "Grandma Wu isn't causing trouble anymore?"
They looked too orderly compared to last time.
"It's over. She won't cause trouble again. I must say, bringing Xiuxiu along was key," Chen Jinhua said excitedly.
The captain was surprised. He hadn't expected the eldest daughter-in-law of the Wang family to be capable of this!
But this was perfect.
"As long as it's over. Their constant disputes have been affecting our brigade's reputation. The accountant and I are going to the warehouse to settle accounts. If anything happens here, Jinhua, keep an eye on things for me."
The captain couldn't hide his joy as he spoke. After a year of hard work, wasn't the goal to distribute food?
Once the accounts were settled, they could distribute food in another three to five days.
In addition to the distributed food, households could exchange their surplus for money. This year's harvest had been good, so next year would be better.
Chen Jinhua knew that settling accounts meant distributing food soon, and she was delighted. "Go quickly. I'll take care of things here. If anyone needs you, I'll call you."
Bai Xiuxiu followed Chen Jinhua into the house, where her two children were playing on a long bench. They rushed towards her like little whirlwinds.
"Mama..."
Bai Xiuxiu comforted her two pouting children before getting back to work.
The Women's Federation didn't have much to do; they just needed to keep track of the elderly women living alone in the village, which wives were abusive, and which mothers-in-law were cruel and mean-spirited.
Bai Xiuxiu saw her mother-in-law, Zhao Guifen, on the list.
Seeing Zhao Guifen, Bai Xiuxiu smiled. "Auntie Jinhua, I remember the manure hasn't been spread yet?"
"Huh? Why did you think of that? No, it hasn't been finished. Everyone has been going into the mountains lately. Since we live near the mountains, there are plenty of delicacies there, and no one wants to earn those few work points at home. They all claim to have stomachaches or sore bottoms.
But when you look up the mountain? They're all there.
There are too few people spreading manure, and Uncle Chen is worried sick about it."
Chen Jinhua couldn't help but complain. If not for this, her husband wouldn't have to lead the team spreading manure himself.
Her own household had many unfinished tasks, but her husband was the captain, so he had to put his own affairs aside.
"I think we should have those cruel daughters-in-law, abusive wives, and husbands who beat their wives do this work. As long as they're healthy, it would be perfect for them. A few days of this, and they won't want to cause trouble anymore.
If there's not enough manure-spreading work, we can assign them other strenuous tasks in the village."
As Bai Xiuxiu spoke, she flipped past Zhao Guifen's page and continued recording.
Hearing her suggestion, Chen Jinhua's thoughts raced.
What a good idea, but... it's tricky to implement.
"Sister Chen, I think it's a good idea. We shouldn't decide on our own; we should ask the captain. Just think about how many problems these families cause, despite repeated warnings. At the beginning of the year, didn't a daughter-in-law get driven to sue in the county, resulting in our village being criticized?"
"I remember it was the Wang family..."
Liu Xiaohui trailed off, sensing something amiss.
She looked at Bai Xiuxiu.
Bai Xiuxiu nodded. "Yes, Sister Liu, she's my mother-in-law."
"I wondered why it felt so familiar! Look at how good a daughter-in-law Xiuxiu is, and her mother-in-law still bullies her—it's inhumane. I say, making them work is just fine." Liu Xiaohui suggested indignantly. She preferred to stay idle at the brigade and had no intention of going out to mediate disputes.
These people could be outrageously difficult when they wanted to be.
She herself had been smeared with cow dung by an old woman before.
They needed to taste some hardship!
Chen Jinhua became even more interested.
If this worked, their work next year would have more impact.
And they could get someone else to do the manure-carrying.
"I'll ask my husband if it complies with regulations," Chen Jinhua hesitated, but her heart was aflame.
"Auntie Jinhua, we just want them to work more and cause less trouble. Besides, they're still earning work points, right? Oh, right—my mother-in-law doesn't need work points. We have a large family, and we don't lack for them. As a family member, I think she should contribute to our work." Seeing her hesitation, Bai Xiuxiu decided to push a bit further, conveniently sending Zhao Guifen to carry manure for free.
"In that case, I'll discuss it with your Uncle Chen. I think this could work." Chen Jinhua was thoroughly swayed. Labor that earned work points wasn't bullying; the more she thought about it, the better it sounded. Chen Jinhua couldn't sit still any longer. "I'll go ask him now!"
Chapter 67
"Can this work out?" After Chen Jinhua left, Liu Xiaohui was somewhat curious.
Miaomiao shook her head. "Sis Liu, even if you ask us, we don't know either. But I think it should be fine. Our squad leader is a pretty open-minded person. As long as no one is bullied and it's for the good of our squad's reputation, it should be okay."
Bai Xiuxiu didn't say anything, but she had an answer in mind.
It would work out. The squad leader's personality was just as Miaomiao described. As long as it was good for the village's reputation, there wouldn't be a problem. After all, if the team did well, he could advance.
Chen Jinhua's efficiency couldn't be questioned. It wasn't long before she returned, her face full of joy—clearly, things had worked out.
"Our squad leader said that it can work. Starting tomorrow, follow this list to notify each village. It's still the same as before; you notify the people from your own village. Xiuxiu, do you want me to talk to your mother-in-law?"
Chen Jinhua looked at Bai Xiuxiu, worried that her gentle appearance might lead to her being bullied by Zhao Guifen.
"Aunt Jinhua, I'll handle the notification." Bai Xiuxiu certainly wouldn't miss this great opportunity. Letting someone else do it would rob her of all the fun.
The group stayed at the squad until dusk, then prepared to return home.
Chen Jinhua and Bai Xiuxiu went out together, with Chen Jinhua reminding her, "Xiuxiu, come at the same time tomorrow. Auntie won't come to your house to fetch you tomorrow."
"Don't worry, Auntie. I definitely won't be late."
As they exited the squad's courtyard, both were surprised to see someone standing at the gate. Chen Jinhua recognized the person and teased Bai Xiuxiu with a smile. "Do you need him to come pick you up from the same village? It's not even dark yet. Why are you like young couples in the city?
Alright, go home with your man."
Chen Jinhua didn't tease Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe too much, hurrying home to prepare dinner. There was still a lot of work waiting for her.
Bai Xiuxiu hadn't expected Wang Qinghe to come pick her up.
Seeing that his basket was gone, he must have already been home.
"Daddy!" Yueyue ran straight to him upon seeing him.
Wang Qinghe skillfully carried the two children, one on his back and the other in his arms. Seeing his wife's surprised expression, he reached out to her. "I was worried about you walking in the dark, so I came to pick you up."
Bai Xiuxiu felt sweet inside seeing that he hadn't changed out of his mountain clothes to wait for her. She took his hand. "Yes, I'm afraid of the dark. You should always come to pick me up."
"The Wang family didn't cause trouble today?" Bai Xiuxiu was curious about the Wang family's current situation.
If Wang Qinghe didn't bring back any goods, how could his family easily let him leave?
"When I got home, I put down the basket and left. I didn't hear them speak. But they probably did cause trouble. Today, Fourth Sister-in-law broke her leg. On their way back, they blamed each other. It seems that Fifth Sister-in-law chose not to take the main road but insisted on taking a shortcut.
She slipped and, fearing she would fall, pulled Fourth Sister-in-law down with her.
Later, they found ginseng in the pit.
On their way back, their faces weren't looking too good."
Wang Qinghe told his wife about what happened at home, guessing that the discovery of the ginseng might accelerate the Wang family's desire to separate him from them.
If he proposed the separation himself, the Wang family would never agree. They would suspect he had a way to make money and wanted to cut ties with the family. Moreover, they wouldn't want to lose his strength, which they relied on for work.
It would be best if they proposed it themselves.
Now that he and Xiuxiu were sharing their earnings with the family without bringing in additional income, and Xiuxiu had suggested starting this year that they keep their own work points, plus the discovery of the ginseng, they probably couldn't tolerate it anymore.
This was also what Wang Qinghe thought.
Hearing about the discovery of the ginseng, Bai Xiuxiu had the same idea!
She felt a little regretful, hoping to squeeze more benefits from the Wang family, especially Zhou Jiaojiao.
However, this cunning family clearly wouldn't give her many opportunities.
They would have to settle accounts properly next.
When the couple returned to the Wang family's home, the yard was indeed in chaos.
Neighbors frequently peeked out, trying to see into the Wang family's yard.
"Help! You harridan, let go of my hair!" Zhou Jiaojiao's screams echoed from within the yard.
When Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe entered, Chen Fang was grabbing Zhou Jiaojiao's hair and beating her fiercely. No one could stop her.
Chen Fang was tall and strong, making it impossible for Zhou Jiaojiao to fight back.
She was so enraged that no one dared to approach.
"You wretch, you chose the shortcut and when you fell, you pulled me down instead. Aren't you afraid of divine retribution?" Chen Fang rarely lost her temper, making her sudden rage even more shocking to everyone in the yard.
At the door, Bai Xiuxiu casually closed it and watched the commotion with Wang Qinghe.
"Wang Qingqi, are you a man or not? Hurry up and save me." Zhou Jiaojiao covered her head, screaming in pain. Seeing her husband unwilling to help, she became furious.
Called out by name, Wang Qingqi had no choice but to step forward, attempting to intervene. "Fourth Sister-in-law, can't you talk things out? As soon as you entered the yard, you started beating my wife. How long has it been? Even if you're angry, shouldn't you calm down by now?"
"That's right, Fourth Sister-in-law. All the neighbors are watching. This is embarrassing."
Elder Wang Shoucheng quickly tried to persuade her. Fifth Sister-in-law was the family's lucky star; it wouldn't look good to beat her casually.
Moreover, if she was injured, wouldn't it cost money to treat her?
"You two stop making light of the situation. I don't even know what's wrong with my leg yet. Let me tell you, once Lao Si brings Old Man Zhang back for me, if there's no cure for my leg, I'll drag her down with me." Chen Fang's eyes were red, wishing she could strangle Zhou Jiaojiao right then and there.
She pulled harder on her hair.
"Pain... let go of me now!"
"Dad, you need to do something. Can't we talk this out? Mom, you should intervene too. My wife is about to be beaten to death by Fourth Sister-in-law." Wang Qingqi felt his heart ache, but he couldn't bring himself to act. How could he hit a woman?
Besides, Fourth Sister-in-law looked truly terrifying.
Wang Shoucheng also hesitated to step in. Inside the house, Zhao Guifen started yelling through the window: "Lao Si's wife, did you go up the mountain and catch madness? Release Lao Wu's wife immediately, or I'll have Lao Si divorce you.
Lao Da, are you dead? Why aren't you breaking this up?"
Zhao Guifen spotted Wang Qinghe at the door and immediately started berating him.
Bai Xiuxiu found it amusing, shooting a glance at her before looking at the helpless Old Wu beside her: "If Old Wu won't even stand up for his own wife, why should we get involved? Besides, we don't even know who's right or wrong. Who should we side with? What if she deserves this?"
Chapter 68
"You're everywhere!" Wang Shoucheng was furious at the sight of his eldest daughter-in-law. In the past two years, she had been like a dead person, not involving herself in family matters, and that was tolerable. But recently, she had started meddling in everything. Ever since she began interfering, there had been no peace in the family.
"Dad, Xiuxiu is right," Wang Qinghe frowned, then stopped standing by the door. He pulled his wife around the two people and returned to the entrance of their room in the courtyard, taking their children inside.
"Wang Qingqi, do you care about me or not? If you don't, I'll divorce you." Zhou Jiaojiao cried out of anger. Why should this be? Neither Wang Qinghe nor Wang Qingqi cared for her. One was her husband, and the other was the man she favored.
Both of them should take care of her.
"If you dare come over, I'll drag your wife to the wall right now." Chen Fang pulled Zhou Jiaojiao toward the wall.
"No, don't be impulsive. Fourth Sister-in-law, please don't. I apologize, I apologize, okay?" Zhou Jiaojiao's face turned pale with fear.
"Who needs your apology? Will my leg stop hurting if you apologize?" Chen Fang's leg hurt badly, but her anger was overpowering it now.
The door opened again, and Old Fourth, Wang Qingzheng, dragged Old Man Zhang into the house. He was exhausted from running all the way here.
As soon as he entered the courtyard, he saw his wife still grabbing Old Fifth's wife's hair. He was startled. "Wife, doesn't your leg hurt anymore? Uncle Zhang is here. Why don't you let him take a look first?"
He wondered what was going on.
They started fighting without even saying anything. Even while fighting, she didn't forget to ask him to bring Old Man Zhang to check her leg. Seeing how she looked like she could strangle both of them, he didn't dare to ask.
Old Man Zhang was also startled when he saw the scene upon entering.
The Wang family had certainly been lively lately.
Seeing people arrive, Chen Fang didn't let go. She pulled Zhou Jiaojiao and limped into the room.
The whole family followed. Bai Xiuxiu, watching the commotion, pulled her husband along to join them.
Wang Qinghe held her back.
"What's wrong? Let's go watch the drama," Bai Xiuxiu didn't understand why he was holding her back.
"Be careful while watching. Don't get hurt. I'm going to set up the small stove in our room. It will be more convenient for you to use hot water." After giving instructions, Wang Qinghe went back inside.
Although they would probably separate households soon, they couldn't just make do until then.
They had brought the small pot, so it would be a shame not to use it.
Bai Xiuxiu followed into Old Fourth's room. Old Man Zhang was examining Chen Fang's leg injury.
She had fallen hard, and the wound looked terrifying.
"It's a broken leg. We need to set it and apply a splint. She won't be able to use this leg for at least half a month. I'll give her some anti-inflammatory medicine. I'll come every two days to change the medicine. Remember, don't let her do any work."
After prescribing the medicine, Old Man Zhang calculated, "The cost of the medicine plus the splint will be one yuan and seventy fen."
"One yuan and seventy fen? What kind of medicine is that expensive?" Zhao Guifen, who had limped out, was furious at the price.
Why did it cost so much to treat a daughter-in-law?
Wouldn't it be enough if she didn't die? The leg would heal eventually on its own.
"What's so expensive about it? This money, Old Fifth's wife, you'll pay for it." Chen Fang pulled Zhou Jiaojiao's hair again, causing her to cry out in pain.
"I'll pay..."
She was extremely aggrieved and harbored resentment towards Chen Fang.
However, her deepest resentment was for Bai Xiuxiu. It must have been because of Bai Xiuxiu that her brother-in-law hadn't intervened earlier. As for Chen Fang, she deserved to break her leg. In the future, she would have more ways to deal with her.
If she led her family to a better life, wouldn't Chen Fang have to come and flatter her?
Thinking this, Zhou Jiaojiao glanced deeply at Bai Xiuxiu, who was watching the commotion.
Bai Xiuxiu was speechless under her gaze. Indeed, no one knew what Zhou Jiaojiao was thinking.
Zhou Jiaojiao paid for Chen Fang's medicine, and the family escorted Old Man Zhang out. They returned to the room to convince Chen Fang to release Zhou Jiaojiao.
At this moment, Zhao Cuihua stood next to Bai Xiuxiu and whispered to her.
"Fourth Sister-in-law, the leg has been checked, and the money has been paid. Please let go of my wife. We are a family. Do you really want her to die? And why are you doing this?" Wang Qingqi urged impatiently.
Chen Fang sneered. "Why? Your wife has been acting like she has a mental problem whenever she goes up the mountain these days, preferring to take treacherous shortcuts. Today was the same. Instead of taking the main path, she insisted on taking a shortcut. She's stupid and slipped, losing her footing.
But to prevent herself from falling into a large ditch, she grabbed onto me to steady herself, dragging me down instead. It was a several-meter-deep ditch, and I slid down the side! If I had been unlucky and landed headfirst, we would be preparing a funeral right now.
Zhou Jiaojiao, tell me, is this what happened?"
Chen Fang pointed at Zhou Jiaojiao.
Zhou Jiaojiao wasn't fazed. With tears in her eyes, she said, "Fourth Sister-in-law, I know it's all my fault. At that moment, I panicked and instinctively grabbed onto you to pull myself up. It was my mistake, and I apologize.
Rest assured, during the time your leg is injured, I'll cover all the medical expenses.
I'll buy you whatever you want to eat.
Please forgive me, considering that we found two ginseng roots only because we took that shortcut, which caused you to fall into the ditch?
In the future, I'll definitely make it up to you."
"What? What did you find?" Wang Shoucheng, who had almost fallen asleep, didn't care about the trivial matters between his daughters-in-law. As long as his fourth daughter-in-law didn't die and his fifth daughter-in-law compensated her, the matter would fade over time.
They were a family, and apart from the eldest son's household, everyone else was close-knit.
But when he heard this, he suddenly became alert.
Her eyes shone as she looked at Zhou Jiaojiao.
Zhou Jiaojiao put on an innocent and pitiful expression. "We, we found ginseng. It's not small, it must be at least twenty or thirty years old. Both plants look similar. Take a look."
Zhou Jiaojiao had originally intended to keep it for herself when she was in the mountains, but with Zhao Cuihua and Chen Fang around, she couldn't do anything.
The thought of Bai Xiuxiu taking a share of her money made her even more upset.
Similarly distressed were Wang Shoucheng and Zhao Guifen, the elderly couple.
They stared at the ginseng like it was a treasure. They exchanged a glance and came up with an idea: "This is good stuff. Maybe our family should..."
"Maybe we should sell it quickly. If we sell this, everyone in the family can get a share," Bai Xiuxiu interrupted them.
If they continued, they would probably suggest keeping it for emergencies.
If they kept it, how could there be any share left for her and Qinghe?
Of course not.
When Bai Xiuxiu spoke, Zhao Cuihua and the angry Chen Fang suddenly felt relieved.
Especially Chen Fang, who had been angry, now remembered something more important. Right, we need to split the money.
"For the sake of the ginseng, I broke my leg. This time, we have to listen to me. I think Sister-in-law is right. Let's sell it and get the cash."
Chapter 69
"What do you youngsters know? Keep this thing; it could save someone's life in the future. Someone in our family will inevitably get sick and need it. How can we sell such a valuable item so easily?" Wang Shoucheng's face darkened, making his wrinkles appear even more severe.
"Dad, are you losing your mind? What kind of family are we? Do you think we can afford ginseng when we're sick?
Unless...you're planning to give the ginseng as a gift? Right, I heard that Second Brother and Old Fifth haven't secured their jobs yet. You wouldn't...?"
Bai Xiuxiu looked at them with confusion.
Chen Fang became even angrier. "This ginseng must be sold, and I want to see the money. Otherwise, I'll accuse Zhou Jiaojiao of trying to kill me. Don't think my family will let this go; this matter won't end easily."
"Right, the ginseng must be sold. Otherwise, I'll testify on behalf of Fourth Sister-in-Law." Zhao Cuihua joined in.
She had already sold some ginseng with her eldest sister-in-law, and now there were two more plants. She couldn't dare to imagine how good her life would be if she kept them.
How wonderful would that life be?
They had to be sold.
If the old couple kept them, they would have no chance. They would all go to Second Brother and Old Fifth.
Those two bookworms were the real treasures of the family, while everyone else was just an afterthought.
"Third Son, Fourth Son, aren't you going to intervene? Selling this would be a waste," Wang Shoucheng said, turning to his sons since his daughters-in-law were unresponsive.
Wang Qingzheng and Wang Qingliang were already thinking about how to spend the money and didn't want to listen to their father.
"Dad, I think it should be sold too. Otherwise, how can there be peace in this house? Eldest Sister-in-Law is right; what kind of family are we? Can we really afford to use such expensive items for treatment? We should sell it and buy something nice to eat; that's the sensible thing to do," Wang Qingliang refused without hesitation.
Wang Qingzheng also nodded. "That's right. My wife broke her leg because of this ginseng. If we don't sell it and share the money, we won't agree."
"You two...are you trying to drive me to my grave?" Wang Shoucheng felt like banging his head against a wall due to his foolish sons.
But for the sake of keeping the family together, he had no choice but to concede.
"Dad, just sell the ginseng. Who knows, maybe we'll find even better ones later." Zhou Jiaojiao, having fixed her hair, looked proud. Ever since marrying Wang Qingqi, her luck had improved significantly.
There would definitely be more ginseng in the future.
These people were so ignorant; what was there to argue about?
As long as they treated her well, she would bring them all kinds of benefits.
Hearing Zhou Jiaojiao's words, Wang Shoucheng felt even more heartbroken. Had Old Fifth's wife's brain been damaged by Fourth Sister-in-Law? Couldn't these things be discussed behind closed doors?
No, he had to separate the eldest son's family. The eldest son hadn't brought back any game today and still wanted a share of the money.
Wang Shoucheng's resolve was firm.
"Let's sell the ginseng, but everyone's busy these days, so..."
"No problem. I think Third Sister-in-Law and my husband can go sell it in the city together." Bai Xiuxiu interrupted Wang Shoucheng. Want to sell it after the separation? Dream on.
Wang Shoucheng felt even more distressed. "Eldest Daughter-in-Law, do you understand propriety? When has it been your place to speak for this family?"
"Hmph! Dad, what era are we living in? Are we still following those outdated rules? Everyone is equal now. I just went to the Women's Federation today and learned a lot. If you don't understand, I can invite Director Chen to educate you."
Bai Xiuxiu's eyes held undisguised ridicule as she gave a cold laugh.
Ignoring the murderous looks from Wang Shoucheng and Zhao Guifen, she continued: "Oh, right. Speaking of the Women's Federation, the village chief made a decision today.
Starting from tomorrow, those registered under the Women's Federation who mistreat their daughters-in-law, those daughters-in-law who mistreat their mothers-in-law, and those daughters who are disrespectful, along with stepmothers who torment children, will be required to either carry manure or perform other menial tasks around the village.
I think, Mother, you're included in that group.
Mother, do you prefer carrying manure or...carrying manure?" Bai Xiuxiu looked at Zhao Guifen.
Zhao Guifen, if not for her injured leg, would have jumped up in anger. "What nonsense? Who's going to carry manure? Who's mistreating their daughter-in-law?"
"You are. This year, I reported everything to the county office, and you're officially registered in the village. You're a key target, and Director Chen said she would notify you. I thought I'd spare you some embarrassment and deliver the message myself. You should take good care of your leg; I'll try to schedule your work a few days later.
Otherwise, you'll struggle to carry manure while limping."
Bai Xiuxiu glanced at Zhao Guifen's leg.
Zhao Guifen was so infuriated by Bai Xiuxiu that she struggled to catch her breath.
"Eldest Sister-in-Law, how can you treat Mother like this?" Zhou Jiaojiao added fuel to the fire.
Bai Xiuxiu looked puzzled. "How did I treat her? Isn't it her fault? If she wasn't at fault, why would I report her? Why would the village keep her name on the list? This is karma!"
"Pah! You...can't you tell them that I didn't mistreat you?" Zhao Guifen managed to catch her breath.
"But you did mistreat me. Just the other day, you made me work, and everyone in the village saw it. Even if I say something, they'll only believe that you forced me to say it. Mother, this labor is what you deserve."
Bai Xiuxiu smiled at Zhao Guifen's expression, which was worse than eating feces.
Her smile only infuriated Zhao Guifen further. This was deliberate; Eldest Daughter-in-Law wanted her dead.
"Eldest Sister-in-Law, even if Mother did wrong before, we're still a family. If you spoke up for her, it wouldn't have come to this. You're too heartless. You...," Zhou Jiaojiao, her eyes red, supported Zhao Guifen as they both condemned Bai Xiuxiu.
A sense of satisfaction welled up inside her.
How could someone as wicked and vile as Bai Xiuxiu be worthy of her eldest brother? As long as Mother disliked her, it was only a matter of time before her eldest brother divorced her.
There were plenty of examples in the village of wicked daughters-in-law being sent back to their natal homes.
Someone like her needn't even return to her family home; it's better she's gone for good, free from any future entanglements.
Truly, my sister-in-law could have acted more swiftly.
Bai Xiuxiu looked at her with composure. "Heartless? Compared to you causing Old Fourth's wife to break her leg, I'd say I'm still quite kind."
"You!" Zhou Jiaojiao gritted her teeth.
"Mom and Dad, to avoid any unforeseen complications, let's sell the ginseng first thing tomorrow morning." Bai Xiuxiu brought up the matter of selling the ginseng again.
"Yes, Mom and Dad, my sister-in-law is right; our family needs money." Zhao Cuihua chimed in support.
"This must be done; otherwise, the issue with Old Fifth's wife pushing me will never end." Chen Fang pressured the elders, though she didn't intend to completely fall out with the family. Still, an opportunity like this shouldn't go to waste.
Wang Shoucheng could only nod reluctantly. "Fine, but don't say I didn't warn you!"
Worst comes to worst, we'll just claim it was lost tomorrow morning!
"Oh, if the ginseng happens to go missing tonight, Mom and Dad, you'll have to compensate us for its value." Bai Xiuxiu extinguished Wang Shoucheng's thoughts with a single sentence.
Chapter 70
This eldest daughter-in-law, why is she so annoying!
After Bai Xiuxiu spoke, Zhao Cuihua and Chen Fang looked at the elderly couple differently. With their favoritism, it was indeed very likely.
Being stared at by the family like this, Wang Shoucheng had no choice. At this point, he could only try to make up for things in some other way.
He had no choice but to agree now; otherwise, the family would fall apart.
"Eldest daughter-in-law, you're too cunning. We're all family, who would do something like that?" Wang Shoucheng tried to save face.
Bai Xiuxiu sneered. "Good that you wouldn't. Then I won't disturb Fourth Sister-in-law's rest. I'll go back to our room."
"Mom and Dad, I'm going back to our room too." Zhao Cuihua hurriedly followed her out.
"What room are you going back to? It's your turn to cook today," Zhao Guifen thought of how the third daughter-in-law had sided with Bai Xiuxiu against her and the old man. She was angry. Over these years, hadn't she been good to Zhao Cuihua?
She had always treated Zhao Cuihua as a great contributor to the family for giving birth to a grandson. She had never neglected her.
This ungrateful wretch, she really made her furious just looking at her.
"Mom, didn't you get it wrong? It's Fourth Sister-in-law's turn to cook today. Her leg is broken now, so it should be Fifth Sister-in-law's turn to help her. After all, she was the one who caused the injury, not me." Zhao Cuihua ran off after saying that.
She still had to ask her eldest sister-in-law about the ginseng!
When Zhao Cuihua went out, Bai Xiuxiu wasn't far away.
"Eldest sister-in-law." Zhao Cuihua jogged over. "Eldest sister-in-law, our ginseng?"
Bai Xiuxiu looked around to make sure no one was nearby before handing her the money. "Here's your hundred dollars."
"So much!" Zhao Cuihua's eyes lit up.
With so much money, if it weren't for Old Fifth building his house recently and Second Brother expanding theirs, causing everyone to stir up trouble and forcing Mom and Dad to give each person a hundred dollars, she wouldn't have saved up this much over the years.
"Keep your voice down. I'm going back to our room first." Bai Xiuxiu pointed at Fourth Sister-in-law's room to avoid being overheard.
Zhao Cuihua covered her mouth. The more she looked at Bai Xiuxiu, the more she liked what she saw.
Indeed, her decision had been correct. Listening to her eldest sister-in-law meant getting a piece of the pie.
As for whether her eldest sister-in-law would be kicked out by Mom and Dad for being too annoying later on, that wasn't her concern.
Even if her eldest sister-in-law were kicked out, her in-laws wouldn't hold it against her.
The Wang family's fortunes were improving, and they wouldn't leave Third Brother and her behind.
Zhao Cuihua had everything figured out.
Bai Xiuxiu returned to her room.
Inside, Wang Qinghe had already brought the stove into the room and set up the flue.
He was currently trying to light the stove.
Seeing her return, he smiled at her.
"It'll be ready soon." Wang Qinghe put wood into the stove as he spoke.
Zhao Guifen and Wang Shoucheng had just come out of Fourth Sister-in-law's room when they saw smoke coming from here.
Seeing that the stove had been set up, they became even angrier.
Zhao Guifen limped over to their room. "What are you two doing? Do you want us dead? What season is it?"
"Mom, I chopped the firewood for the family." Wang Qinghe didn't say much, but his words hit Zhao Guifen where it hurt.
She glared at the couple in the room, holding back a torrent of curses.
"Mom, is there anything else? If not, you should go rest. You seem to be walking fine. Why don't you go fetch manure early?" Bai Xiuxiu glanced at her.
Zhao Guifen couldn't hold back when she heard 'fetch manure.' "Pah! Don't think you can harm me. I'll go find Chen Jinhua. I don't believe she'd really make me fetch manure."
She stormed out, muttering curses.
Wang Shoucheng had heard most of it outside. He was thinking about how to make Bai Xiuxiu and her family leave with nothing.
He felt uncomfortable even thinking about giving some of the family's money to the eldest son.
In this regard, they were on the same page as Bai Xiuxiu.
She was also thinking about how to make the entire family cough up their money.
Once Wang Qinghe got the stove burning, the whole family knew about it soon enough.
Zhou Jiaojiao sat in the kitchen, staring at the western room outside, feeling uneasy.
Although it wasn't cold enough to need a stove yet, why did Bai Xiuxiu get one and not her?
Wang Qingqi really wasn't a man. Didn't he know to learn from his older brother?
"Wife, Mom said to cook two eggs for us and sneak them back to our room for us to eat." Wang Qingqi entered the kitchen and wrapped his arms around Zhou Jiaojiao, delighted as he spoke of the eggs.
Zhou Jiaojiao looked at him, her expression sour. "Why didn't you stop the fight today? My scalp still hurts. Chen Fang wanted me dead, and you didn't care. Are you even a man? Before we got married, didn't you say you'd never let me suffer any injustice?
Is there any news about working in the city?"
"Uncle said it's a sure thing. We just have to wait. Don't worry, wife. Mom and Dad dote on me the most. I didn't stop the fight today because I was worried Fourth Sister-in-law might act impulsively and cause a complete breakdown. I wouldn't bear to see you get hurt."
Wang Qingqi began to talk his way out with smooth words.
Although Zhou Jiaojiao was unhappy inside, the thought of going to the city improved her mood somewhat: "That's more like it. We absolutely can't live any worse than Bai Xiuxiu."
"Rest assured, ten Big Brothers can't match me. He only has brute strength to offer in the village, but once I go to the city, we won't be the same kind of people as him anymore." Wang Qingqi had endless aspirations for the future.
Zhou Jiaojiao also nodded: "I'm going to the city tomorrow too, you come with me. Someone else from the family can handle selling the ginseng. We can't miss out on our share, though. I have something important to take care of and someone to introduce you to."
Zhou Jiaojiao recounted to Wang Qingqi how someone from the food factory had bumped into Zhao Guifen.
She had originally planned to go with her mother-in-law, but the matter was put on hold. She would visit them tomorrow to report that they were safe and see if she could explore this opportunity.
"Will it work?" Wang Qingqi doubted it.
"With my good luck, how could anything go wrong?" Zhou Jiaojiao was displeased that Wang Qingqi didn't trust her.
"Alright then." Wang Qingqi wasn't keen, but he still agreed. Yunjiu Novels
As usual, their dinner was bland and watery. After the meal, Bai Xiuxiu's family returned to their room.
Inside, Bai Xiuxiu closed the door tightly and brought out the four remaining eggs, along with some brown sugar: "We're having brown sugar eggs tonight."
Wang Qinghe carried the two children onto the bed and took the sugar and eggs from his wife: "I'll do it. You should rest for a bit."
Bai Xiuxiu didn't refuse and joined the kids on the bed, recounting the events at the fourth brother's house to her husband in bits and pieces as he cooked.
By the time the brown sugar eggs were ready, Bai Xiuxiu had finished telling her story.
"Eat first," Wang Qinghe looked at his wife. He enjoyed listening to her speak, no matter what she said.
As he served her the steaming bowl of brown sugar eggs, Bai Xiuxiu revealed what she had been considering for the past few days: "Qinghe, regarding your origins, I want to start by investigating the old couple of the Wang family.
If you weren't abandoned, the Wang family would likely make a move when they suddenly hear about someone coming to the village looking for a child. That would give us a chance to uncover something.
What do you think?"
Bai Xiuxiu looked at her husband, eager to proceed.