Chapter 91
"Really? That's great! We've been waiting for so long, and finally, we're going to get our share of the grain." Chen Jinhua was almost jumping with joy. Recently, wherever she went in the village, people would ask her when the grain distribution would happen.
Who could blame them when she was the captain's wife?
But even she didn't know the details.
Old Chen remained tight-lipped about this matter, never giving a definite date.
Finally, it was happening.
Once the grain is distributed, they could exchange it for work points and money, which would ease their financial burden significantly. This year, she planned to make herself a new set of clothes; after all, she was now the head of the Women's Federation.
"The captain needs anyone who can do calculations to help out. Old Wang is swamped. I remember Bai Xiuxiu and Miaomiao have both been to school; they should be able to handle the calculations, right?" The captain, seeing his wife caught up in her excitement, quickly brought up the main issue.
Chen Jinhua's face fell immediately. "I thought you were being nice by coming to tell us first. Turns out you just want to borrow some help?"
"This is serious business; don't throw a tantrum. If the village's grain and money distribution is delayed, I'll be held responsible. And don't worry, extra work points will be given. How about five work points per person?" The captain felt awkward but knew that once he mentioned the importance of the task, his wife wouldn't hold him back.
"Xiuxiu, Miaomiao, would you two like to help out?" Chen Jinhua wasn't sure if they would agree, and she couldn't force them since their job was with the Women's Federation, not doing calculations.
"Auntie, this is a good thing; I'm willing to help." Miaomiao agreed immediately upon hearing about the work points.
"I'm also willing to help." Bai Xiuxiu didn't refuse either; five work points was not bad, and calculating wasn't tiring.
"Alright, let's go to the next room." The captain was eager to take them away.
"You two should go ahead. Xiuxiu, I'll watch your children for you," Chen Jinhua said, knowing Bai Xiuxiu might be worried about leaving her kids.
"That's very kind of you, Auntie Jinhua. I'll go now."
After they left, Chen Jinhua looked at Liu Xiaohui, who had been silent. "Xiaohui, it's not that we didn't want you to come along; it's just that you aren't good at calculations."
"Sister Chen, what are you saying? Do you think I'd mind? Being here in the Women's Federation is already thanks to your care. I'm not someone who's ungrateful or greedy. Besides, I really can't do calculations," Liu Xiaohui smiled, looking even more honest.
Chen Jinhua felt relieved. "Good, let's continue with our work."
As dusk approached,
Wang Shoucheng hurriedly headed to the city with the money.
Throughout the journey, he kept thinking about how he had no control over the situation and had to hand over such a large sum without any guarantees. He felt increasingly frustrated and angry.
He regretted not having his eldest son killed years ago.
If his eldest son had died, none of these troubles would exist.
Now, he felt worse than dead!
When Wang Shoucheng arrived at the house, he looked disheveled and worn out.
Seeing Wang Shoucheng, Zhang Panhe pretended to be surprised. "Uncle Wang? Where's Uncle Yang?"
"I don't know. I came to see those two. Are they still here?" Wang Shoucheng's face was cold, and he held a bag tightly.
This was all his family's savings!
"Yes, they're here. I'll take you to them," Zhang Panhe said, leading Wang Shoucheng into the house.
Inside, the man surnamed Niu glanced at him indifferently and continued chatting with the man surnamed Zhou. "Old Zhou, when we return, I need to eat a few good meals. By the way, how's the house situation? My wife nags me every day. It's so annoying. Still, this trip was worth it. It's just a shame there are so few people like this in the county."
Feeling extremely unlucky, Wang Shoucheng wished he could bang his head against the wall.
It was all because his wife hadn't reminded him and that guy surnamed Yang; it was all their fault!
Old Zhou nodded in agreement. "You're smart. Don't say that; he's here now. Saying such things isn't helping, is it?"
Old Niu laughed and pointed at the cloth bag in Wang Shoucheng's hands. "Have you gathered all the money? Don't try to fool me. Nowadays, most people struggle to earn twenty to thirty yuan a month. How could you have so much money?"
Wang Shoucheng felt bitter inside. Normally, he wouldn't have this much!
It was only because of his eldest son and the money left from that incident years ago.
Now, it was all gone.
Wang Shoucheng felt emptier than his wallet.
But he didn't dare show it and instead placed the money on the table with a smile. "How could I? This is all the money my family has saved over the years. Once we give this away, we'll be eating wind next year."
"That's your problem. We'll take the money and catch our train. Whatever happens to your family afterward has nothing to do with us." Old Niu counted the money.
Upon confirming the amount, he was shocked.
There was actually so much money!
When Zhang Panhe told him about it, he thought Zhang Panhe and his friend were crazy.
Now, it seemed appearances could be deceiving; there were indeed wealthy people around!
Who would have thought? An old man from the village who dresses so plainly could come up with so much money?
"Alright, I'll take this money. You can go now. Don't ever say you've seen us, and we'll pretend we've never seen you. Rest assured, we won't talk about your business after taking this money. After all, what's in it for us if we do?"
Old Zhou seemed easy to talk to, smiling as he made assurances to Wang Shoucheng.
Wang Shoucheng, in a daze, looked at the money in their hands and suddenly lost his composure, reaching out to grab it.
Old Niu kicked him away: "What are you trying to do?"
"I can't! I can't! I regret it, this is my money."
Wang Shoucheng wailed and tried to snatch the money back.
"Your money? Does it have your name on it? Where did you get this money? Do you have any proof? Let me warn you now, either scram or we'll still talk about your business even with the money!" Old Niu's expression turned menacing.
Wang Shoucheng was too scared to speak, realizing he couldn't get his money back. If he angered these two further, there would be no good outcome.
He wandered out of the house like a soulless shell.
Outside, Zhang Panhe greeted him warmly as he came out: "Uncle Wang, are you done with your business?"
Wang Shoucheng ignored him and walked away.
After making sure he had gone far enough, Zhang Panhe entered the house: "Where's the money?"
"Brother Zhang, it's all here." The two quickly handed the money over to Zhang Panhe.
Zhang Panhe then gave them each one hundred as agreed: "This is what we agreed upon earlier."
Chapter 92
"Don't feel bad about getting less than the four thousand. This is their matter, and everything they provided was written by them. I'll be honest with you; don't have any ulterior motives.
Do you really think you could get four thousand from that old man just with a story?
This is real.
The person who hired you is the aggrieved party. My friend entrusted me, so I turned to you.
If you have any thoughts because of this money,
today's old man will be tomorrow's you.
We've been brothers for a long time, which is why I'm telling you this. Money can sway hearts, so I need to make it clear to you, or it would harm you."
Zhang Panhe smiled at the two of them, speaking in a smooth and persuasive manner.
Old Niu and Old Zhou were frightened by his words.
When they saw the four thousand yuan, they did indeed have some thoughts.
Could they get so much money just by talking?
If they threatened Zhang Ge instead, wouldn't they get more?
But his words immediately put an end to their thoughts.
Both of them shook their heads vigorously.
"Zhang Ge, we're not that kind of people. Don't worry, we'll take the money and leave right away." Old Niu quickly pocketed the one hundred yuan and left.
Old Zhou also feared being misunderstood if he stayed longer, so he took the money and left as well.
After everyone had gone, Zhang Panhe hurriedly took the money to the next room.
Upon entering, he saw Wang Qinghe sitting there, and the phrase "strategizing behind the scenes" came to mind!
"Wang Ge, just as you said, after they heard what you told me to say, they immediately behaved. They've already left, and I gave each of them one hundred yuan as agreed. Here's the remaining three thousand eight hundred yuan."
Wang Qinghe didn't hesitate to count the money carefully.
Then he took out two hundred yuan: "As we agreed, you've helped me greatly, and you still need to help handle the aftermath. This money is yours."
"Wang Ge, I'll take this money. If I didn't, you wouldn't feel at ease. If you need anything in the future, just let me know; it's easier to work together."
Zhang Panhe took the two hundred yuan.
"It's getting late; I should go back." Wang Qinghe put the money into the inner pocket of his clothes, which was suitable for hiding things; he had worn it specifically today.
After handing over the money, Wang Shoucheng was in a daze and returned home.
It was already dark outside.
Everyone except Wang Qinghe had come back.
Zhao Guifen was pacing anxiously in the courtyard; this was a crucial matter for the family's future!
As soon as Wang Shoucheng entered the courtyard, he saw his wife waiting for him.
Zhao Guifen hurriedly went back inside with him.
"Mom and Dad, what have they been doing all day? Sister-in-law, don't you find it strange?" Zhao Cuihua approached Bai Xiuxiu, who was watching the children under the eaves.
Bai Xiuxiu smiled. "They're probably thinking about how to buy jobs for the second son and Old Fifth's families, right?"
"What? They'd actually do that? Don't they see us as human beings?" Zhao Cuihua couldn't believe it.
But then she thought about it—those two old folks might very well do it!
Zhao Cuihua became increasingly anxious and immediately focused on Bai Xiuxiu.
Her sister-in-law always had ideas!
"Sister-in-law, we're part of the family too, and this money belongs to us as well. If Mom and Dad give it to them, what will we do?"
"What else? We'll divide the household." Bai Xiuxiu said it straightforwardly.
Zhao Cuihua fell silent.
Divide the household? Her sister-in-law could bear it, but she couldn't.
Everyone knew that her parents didn't like her brother and sister-in-law. If they wanted to separate, it would be easy for them.
But she couldn't do that. Although the old couple had been dissatisfied with her recently, they still loved the grandson she had given birth to.
They occasionally slipped her an egg or two.
And staying at home meant she could still benefit from Old Fifth's wife!
"Sister-in-law, don't you want to share in Old Fifth's wife's good luck? Dividing the household? Can you bear it?" Zhao Cuihua didn't believe it.
With such obvious benefits right in front of her, her sister-in-law, who was both smart and lazy, wouldn't want to miss out, right?
Bai Xiuxiu gave her a meaningful smile.
Benefits? The remaining Wang family members would only have debts. After all, when dividing the household, she and Wang Qinghe would re-calculate the accounts. Part of the money hidden by the old couple was the family's property, and they would have to share it with her and Wang Qinghe.
But now, the Wang family's money was already gone.
So, next, Old Fifth's wife should think about how to help her in-laws repay their debt to her.
But she doesn't need to explain these good things to Zhao Cuihua.
"The wind is getting stronger outside. I'll take the children back inside." Bai Xiuxiu didn't respond to Zhao Cuihua's words; she simply brought the two children back into the room.
After settling accounts this afternoon, she went to the commune and bought quite a bit of food to bring back.
She had originally planned to wait for Wang Qinghe to return before eating together, but now she was also feeling a bit hungry, so she took the children into the house to have something to eat.
Back in the room, Bai Xiuxiu gave each child a piece of peach crumb cake that she had just bought.
She then used the remaining hot water from the thermos to make three cups of honey water.
Pulling the curtains closed, she ate with the children.
In the main room.
As soon as Zhao Guifen returned, she hurriedly asked about the situation: "Old man, how did it go? Did they change their minds and refuse to honor the debt?"
"They said they wouldn't, but it seems genuine. After all, if it got out, we're not easy to mess with; we'd drag them down with us. They just want the money," Wang Shoucheng said listlessly.
Hearing that everything was fine, Zhao Guifen burst into tears of relief: "Thank goodness, at least nothing bad happened."
"How can you say nothing bad happened? So much money is gone. How much do we have left?" Wang Shoucheng asked his wife tiredly.
Zhao Guifen brought out the remaining money: "We have forty-one yuan and eighty jiao left."
"What can we do with this?" Wang Shoucheng fretted.
"Don't worry. Our second son's house is almost expanded. Once it's done, the whole family can go hunting in the mountains. With you watching over things, I don't believe the eldest will be able to play any tricks." Zhao Guihua clenched her teeth in anger.
"Don't mention him. If he doesn't want to hunt for us, having ten people go won't make a difference. It's better to separate him early and save our food." Wang Shoucheng felt disgraced whenever he thought of his eldest son.
"By the way, Old Fifth's wife and Old Fifth told me something today. Do you think it's feasible?" Zhao Guihua recalled what Old Fifth's wife had said about the black market trade...
After hearing Zhao Guihua's account, Wang Shoucheng's eyes lit up again at the prospect of making money through the black market.
Chapter 93
If Old Fifth's wife can make money at the black market, wouldn't that cover their losses this time? And given how lucky Old Fifth's wife is, she probably won't get caught at the black market either.
Wang Shoucheng thought about it and felt as if he could see the money already!
"I think it's a good idea. There's no reason not to. If Old Fifth's wife wants to earn money for the family, it's a good thing for us." Wang Shoucheng agreed eagerly.
Zhao Guifen sneered upon hearing this: "I haven't finished yet. Her intention is to only give us a share and ignore everyone else."
"That won't do. After the eldest is separated from the family, everyone else is still one family. If what she does at the black market becomes too noticeable, the other sons will find out. Tell her that if she wants to do this, she must include everyone except the eldest's family."
Wang Shoucheng frowned deeply.
This family absolutely cannot break apart!
"Old man, I heard that the black market is illegal..."
"Just be careful, alright?" Wang Shoucheng was determined to recover the family's losses and didn't care about the danger anymore.
There were only a few dozen dollars left in the household. If the others found out, there would be chaos.
"Well, then. But old man, we need to prepare for separating the eldest. After all, we can't give him any money; we don't have any now." Zhao Guifen sighed when she mentioned money.
Although she was usually frugal, she had never worried about money before.
The family had so much money!
"I know. Let me think about what to do." Wang Shoucheng fell silent, knowing it wouldn't be right to kick the eldest out without giving him any money.
We must make them commit an error!
"Old lady, listen to what I have to say..."
Wang Shoucheng whispered something into Zhao Guifen's ear.
Zhao Guifen hesitated: "Will this work? Won't I lose face?"
"For the sake of the family, you'll have to bear with it. Once we divide the grain this year, I'll buy you a new dress." Wang Shoucheng sighed, his face clouded with worry.
"Forget the new dress; we need to save the money. This matter is settled. I'll wait for the right moment to cause trouble for her, preferably getting the eldest's wife to act." Zhao Guifen made up her mind.
"Dad, the eldest brother is back," Wang Qingqi called from outside the house.
Wang Shoucheng rushed out, his eyes fixed on the basket behind him: "Qinghe, did you catch any game today?"
Wang Qinghe placed the basket in front of him as usual: "Dad, there are many people in the mountains, and the animals have been scared away. It's not easy to catch them, but it might get better soon."
Even though he expected there to be no game, seeing the empty basket still infuriated Wang Shoucheng.
They're all lying to him! They simply don't want to hunt.
If it weren't for the need to separate the eldest, he would have kept the eldest working at home!
Wang Qinghe ignored their anger and went back inside after setting down the basket.
Inside, Bai Xiuxiu was sewing cotton slippers for the children. She had set up a table with cakes and almond cookies bought from the supply store.
Wang Qinghe entered, closed the door tightly, looked at his wife, and saw their sleeping children, speaking softly: "Wife, it worked."
Bai Xiuxiu felt relieved and excitedly dropped what she was doing, jumping into his arms: "That's great!"
She had guessed from seeing her father-in-law's dejected return, but having Wang Qinghe confirm it made her feel even more secure.
Wang Qinghe held her, ensuring she wouldn't fall.
He wasn't particularly surprised by the money, but seeing Xiuxiu's happiness made him happy too.
Wang Qinghe put his wife back on the bed and took out all the money from his inner pocket.
Bai Xiuxiu looked at the money with intense eyes.
"There's three thousand six hundred here. Two hundred went to the actors, another two hundred to Xiao Zhang, and the rest is ours." Wang Qinghe started lighting the stove as he spoke.
Bai Xiuxiu put the money into her space: "Once we separate the family, we'll ask someone to help us find jobs. Then we'll buy a courtyard in the city. Once we establish ourselves, we'll move to the provincial capital... Our future will definitely improve."
Thinking about the future filled Bai Xiuxiu with energy.
In her previous life, she could only watch her husband from afar. Now, alive, she would work together with him and their two children, striving for a better life.
He wouldn't have to live in hatred anymore.
"Alright, I'll go find Xiao Zhang and ask for his help." Wang Qinghe readily agreed; he never refused his wife's requests.
"By the way, regarding the separation, I have something to discuss with you." Bai Xiuxiu's expression turned serious.
Wang Qinghe had just lit the fire and came over to listen patiently.
"Qinghe, the third sister-in-law said she saw Old Fifth's wife talking to her sister-in-law. You also mentioned that the person who pushed me into the water in your dream was her sister-in-law. Do you think this might be a premonitory dream?
If it is, and Old Fifth's sister-in-law really intends to harm me, why don't we turn the tables on her?
When we catch her in the act, we can use it to demand a separation from the family. What do you think?"
Bai Xiuxiu looked expectantly at him.
But she met Wang Qinghe's somewhat intimidating gaze.
"No way." Wang Qinghe flatly refused, as the images from his dream began to haunt him, instilling fear in his heart.
Now Xiuxiu is actually considering taking the initiative to go fishing?
This is absolutely not acceptable.
"What if there's a mistake?" Wang Qinghe was utterly unwilling to accept.
"If she truly intended to harm me, wouldn't it be better to capture her and let her receive the punishment she deserves?" Bai Xiuxiu was somewhat bewildered.
This is absolutely the best approach.
"I won't be pushed into the water by her. If she intends to harm me, with my guard up, I absolutely won't be pushed down. Trust me. Otherwise, can't you just keep an eye on it?" Bai Xiuxiu negotiated with him.
Wang Qinghe simply refused to agree.
"Xiu Xiu, I will find another way to make her pay, but not by putting you in danger. As for the matter of dividing the family, I will also find a solution. Can you trust me?" Wang Qinghe didn't want his wife to get close to the water's edge, and now he didn't even want her to get near Old Fifth's wife.
He didn't care whether it was a dream or not. Even if it was just a dream, he would take it as his mistake, an unintentional harm to others.
In the end, he won't let them have an easy time.
"No way." Bai Xiuxiu believed this was the best approach; as long as she was on guard, she could catch the other party red-handed. She and Wang Qinghe were the victims. No one could say anything against them. If Wang Qinghe were to use other means, it would not be justifiable.
Then she and he are not the victims.
Zhou Jiaojiao's eerie luck is definitely enough to make a pot of tea for her and him.
Chapter 94
"Qinghe, believe me. Am I the kind of person who would seek death on my own? I cherish my life more than anything." Bai Xiuxiu pouted at him.
Wang Qinghe dared not look at her, fearing he might give in if he did.
"Qinghe, Old Fifth's wife is very strange. Since she married into our family, I've been observing her. It seems that anyone who treats her poorly ends up with bad luck. If we try to harm her or her family behind their backs, something will definitely happen.
But if we catch someone trying to harm us, nothing happens.
I'm doing this for our future. I won't fall into the water, really! And even if you don't agree, I have to do it."
Bai Xiuxiu was resolute.
Wang Qinghe couldn't argue with her; he had never won an argument with her before.
He could only resign himself to his fate, looking at her with a resentful expression: "Then I must be there. You can't hide anything from me. If you were to fall into the water..."
"It won't happen!" Bai Xiuxiu was confident.
How could she fall into the water when she knew someone was trying to harm her?
That would be foolish.
"Alright... I'll listen to you." Wang Qinghe agreed, feeling even worse inside. If he were more capable, Xiuxiu wouldn't doubt him. He knew that Old Fifth's wife was lucky and that going against someone lucky never ended well.
But he still didn't want Xiuxiu to face danger.
He needed to become someone she could rely on, someone she believed could handle any danger as long as he was there.
Seeing that he finally agreed, Bai Xiuxiu was overjoyed: "I knew you care about me the most."
"Oh, right, I left the shrimp on the table. Could you cook it? I don't think we'll have much for dinner tonight, so we need to supplement privately." Health was more important than anything; she and Wang Qinghe had a bright future ahead.
They couldn't let their health decline now.
In a few decades, they would travel together.
"Okay." Wang Qinghe started boiling water to cook the shrimp.
In the east room, Zhou Jiaojiao was restless.
Looking at the man lying on the bed: "Qingqi, how are things going with Mom and Dad? Didn't Mom say the family would give us money for jobs? Why hasn't there been any news all day?
Didn't they say they'd take us to pay tomorrow?"
Zhou Jiaojiao rarely felt uneasy, but this sudden uncertainty made her feel very uneasy.
Wang Qingqi wasn't worried: "What's the rush? Mom wouldn't lie to us, would she?"
"I just worry about unexpected changes. Dad looked upset when he came back today, and after he left, Mom didn't mention the job thing anymore." Zhou Jiaojiao sensed something was off.
Wang Qingqi also became uncertain: "What should we do? Should I ask them after dinner?"
"Do it now, or I won't feel at ease." Zhou Jiaojiao urged him.
Before they could go, Zhao Guifen had already come over.
"Old Fifth, Jiaojiao, are you two resting? Open the door for Mom; I have something to tell you." Zhao Guifen politely knocked on the door.
This surprised both of them. They exchanged glances, and Wang Qingqi jumped up to open the door.
"Mom, why are you here?"
Wang Qingqi was surprised; since he and Xiuxiu got married, his mother rarely came to their room.
Zhao Guifen noticed the new items in the east room and felt a bit displeased; Old Fifth's wife seemed wasteful.
"Mom, sit down," Zhou Jiaojiao invited her to sit by the bed.
After sitting down, Zhao Guifen looked at Zhou Jiaojiao: "Jiaojiao, your request today—your father and I discussed it. Your father thinks the black market business is worth trying."
Zhou Jiaojiao was delighted: "Really? That's great. Mom, you're so good to me and Old Fifth."
"I'm not finished yet!" Zhao Guifen continued awkwardly.
"Go on, please." Zhou Jiaojiao urged her to continue.
"We agree, but your father said that doing business in the black market is dangerous. Also, living with other brothers in the same courtyard makes it impossible to keep it secret. Once Eldest Brother moves out, we plan to separate him.
The remaining brothers must stick together.
So, everyone must be involved.
This way, you'll have less risk."
Hearing this, Zhou Jiaojiao's joy faded instantly.
Why another separation?
And Eldest Brother moving out? Wouldn't she see him less?
But there was an upside; she wouldn't have to deal with the annoying Bai Xiuxiu. Without Eldest Brother's wife, contacting him would be easier.
Moving out might be good.
"Mom, then we can't split it equally. I should get the larger share since it was my idea and the recipes are mine." Zhou Jiaojiao learned from her previous experience in the mountains and refused to agree to an equal split this time.
"Alright, that's what your dad and I meant too."
Zhao Guifen agreed readily, and this was indeed what she and the old man had in mind.
Since Old Fifth's wife is doing well, and Old Fifth will do well too, they naturally have to favor them a bit.
"Mom, I have something else I want to ask. When you came back from Uncle's house this morning, didn't you tell us that you and Dad would secretly pay for the job this time? We were supposed to say it was our own money. Tomorrow we're going to take care of the matter.
So where is the money?"
Wang Qingqi, after being glanced at several times by Zhou Jiaojiao, quickly asked about the most pressing concern he and his wife had.
In an instant, Zhao Guifen's smile vanished.
Old Fifth and his wife really know how to bring up the difficult topics.
"Mom, there won't be any changes, right?" Zhou Jiaojiao felt her premonition coming true.
Zhao Guifen nodded guiltily. "Yeah, I don't think it's possible now. Your dad and I can't come up with the money. Your dad thinks that the family shouldn't give you the money, nor should we touch the money we have on hand. You'd better go to your maternal family for help."
"What?" Zhou Jiaojiao was completely taken aback.
What kind of people are they? They said they would give us the money before, but now they want us to get it from my maternal family?
That's hundreds of dollars!
There's no way her mom could give her that much.
And the difference is just too big.
Wang Qingqi didn't expect such an outcome either and was stunned. "Mom, aren't you making things difficult for us? Who would let their married daughter go home and ask for so much money? All the money in our family is in your hands, and we don't have much saved privately.
If you want us to come up with the money ourselves, where are we supposed to get it from?"
Zhao Guifen knew this, but the problem was that she and the old man couldn't magically produce the money either.
"Old Fifth's wife, your sister-in-law is looking for you."
Chapter 95
Outside, Zhao Cuihua shouted in the courtyard, scaring Zhou Jiaojiao half to death.
Why couldn't Zhao Cuihua just come and knock on the door to tell her? And what was Third Sister-in-Law doing here anyway? If she had the chance, wouldn't she have told Third Sister-in-Law herself?
"Wife, could it be that they're calling you back? Didn't you say your brothers from your natal family were coming back today? We've been back since this afternoon but haven't gone over there yet," Wang Qingqi reminded her.
Zhou Jiaojiao also remembered. She had originally planned to go there right after returning from the county.
But after coming back from the county, her mother-in-law's words made her so happy that she wanted to stay home and spend more time with her.
Before she could say much, her father-in-law came back.
After that, their strange behavior kept her uneasy, and she ended up forgetting about going back to her natal family.
As soon as she mentioned going back to her natal family, Zhao Guifen had an idea: "You should go home today and talk to your family about this job opportunity. It's a great deal that you can't find even if you looked everywhere. Even if you need to borrow money from them—
Old Fifth, don't just stand there; go with your wife."
"Mom, how are we supposed to explain this to them? Why would my wife's family lend us money? Besides, why can't we use the money we've saved over the years? You were fine this morning, why are you acting differently now?" Wang Qingqi said with a frown, blaming Zhao Guifen for causing trouble.
Zhao Guifen felt wronged too. Did she not want to help?
It's just that all the money was taken away. They shouldn't have left the eldest alive back then; if they hadn't, they wouldn't have to worry about him finding their son.
And Old Yang, what good did he do by getting involved?
If it weren't for Old Yang's meddling, Old Man wouldn't have had to go to the city.
When Old Yang told others about this, if Old Man didn't go, people might think he was guilty.
Now look at the situation...
It's all because of that Yang!
Seeing her mother-in-law silent, Zhou Jiaojiao felt even more uneasy.
Something doesn't seem right!
She had been married into this family for some time now, and her mother-in-law had always been kind to Wang Qingqi. The family had three hundred and fifty yuan, which wasn't a small amount, and she had offered to give it to Wang Qingqi and Second Brother at noon.
Could something have happened to the family's money?
Thinking of this possibility, Zhou Jiaojiao broke out in a cold sweat and cautiously asked, "Mom, did our money get lost?"
Smack!
Zhao Guifen slapped her in surprise.
After hitting her, Zhao Guifen was stunned, and Zhou Jiaojiao was stunned too.
When had she ever been treated like this?
"Mom, what are you doing?" Wang Qingqi was also shocked, but between his mother and his wife, he naturally favored his wife. A warm wife and children on a heated bed—that was most important to him!
To hide her guilt, Zhao Guifen put on a tough face: "Listen to what you're saying! Such unlucky words! Our money is fine; your father and I have other uses for it. It's all for the good of the family. Now, both of you should go do what you need to do.
You've saved quite a bit recently. Borrow another one or two hundred yuan from your natal family. What? They won't lend it to you?"
Zhou Jiaojiao's eyes welled up with tears, angry and hurt: "My parents never hit me, and you hit me?"
"You're my daughter-in-law! Why can't I hit you?" Zhao Guifen was unrepentant.
These daughters-in-law were getting harder to manage these days.
"Don't regret this. Qingqi, let's go." Zhou Jiaojiao cried as she walked out.
Hearing this, Zhao Guifen sneered.
Regret? She didn't regret it at all. Even if Old Fifth's wife was lucky and capable, she was still a daughter-in-law of the Wang family. If Old Fifth divorced her, she'd be second-hand goods.
Could she find someone better than Old Fifth?
Besides, if she knew the family's money was gone, that would be disastrous.
Feeling that she had finally won, Zhao Guifen limped out of the room.
Just a few steps away, she saw Liu Xiaoe rushing over with a basin of water.
"What are you doing, running so fast?" Zhao Guifen called out to her second daughter-in-law, displeased.
Liu Xiaoe, already panicked, was further startled by her mother-in-law's voice and dropped the basin, spilling hot water all over Zhao Guifen.
"Aaah!"
Zhao Guifen screamed in pain.
"I, I didn't mean to, Mom! Are you okay?" Liu Xiaoe burst into tears.
The people inside the house also came out.
Upon hearing the commotion outside, Bai Xiuxiu quickly got up: "Qinghe, watch the pot. I'll go see what's happening."
With that, she ran out.
In the courtyard, Zhao Guifen was hopping around in pain.
Liu Xiaoe sat on the ground and cried.
The whole family was stunned.
"What happened? What's going on?" Wang Shoucheng came out of the room and saw his wife jumping around like a madwoman.
Wasn't she supposed to be talking to Old Fifth and his wife? Why is she causing a scene now?
"Dad, you're finally here. Look at this mess. I didn't mean to do it. Mom called me, and I got startled, so the hot water spilled on her." Liu Xiaoe explained incoherently. She had been eavesdropping on Old Fifth and his wife talking with Mom earlier.
When she heard that the money couldn't be given to Old Fifth and his wife, she rushed to tell her husband.
But before she could say anything, her husband asked for some hot water.
In a hurry, she brought the hot water out and ran into Mom...
Feeling guilty about eavesdropping, she panicked even more.
"You good-for-nothing thing, are you trying to scald me to death? What are you waiting for? Go get Old Zhang right away. I must be burned. You'll pay for my medical expenses."
Zhao Guifen pointed at Liu Xiaoe's head and started yelling.
Hearing that she would have to pay, Liu Xiaoe felt even more aggrieved.
"Enough, go find Old Zhang. Wife, stop jumping around. What are you doing hopping on one leg? Go inside and change your clothes first." Wang Shoucheng couldn't stand watching his wife jump around anymore.
She was becoming increasingly unreasonable.
At her age, she still hadn't grown up.
Could things be the same as before? They were broke now, yet she still acted so stubbornly. Would any of their sons listen to them anymore?
Zhao Guifen hopped back into the house, feeling wronged.
"What did Old Fifth say?" Wang Shoucheng closed the door and pressed.
"What could he say? He definitely wasn't happy. His wife wasn't happy either. She even said something about whether our money had a problem. I slapped her. I told her to borrow money from her parents. I don't know if she can get any."
Zhao Guifen felt even more distressed when she mentioned Old Fifth and his wife.
Life was going to be tough from now on.
"From now on, be nicer to them. Don't treat the daughters-in-law the way you used to. We're not in the same position as before, so don't cause trouble for me. The eldest couple is still here; don't let the eldest daughter-in-law stir things up again."
Chapter 96
"That's not a good thing." Wang Shoucheng regretted letting his eldest son marry her when he mentioned his eldest daughter-in-law.
"Alright, I know." Zhao Guifen was in considerable pain from the burn.
Bai Xiuxiu didn't expect that Zhao Guifen had been burned. Seeing this incident before dinner was quite entertaining.
Liu Xiaoe looked at Bai Xiuxiu with resentment. How could she be so mean? Watching the show?
Bai Xiuxiu already had everything she needed and more. Now she was here to mock her? How could someone be so cruel?
Feeling wronged, Liu Xiaoe got up and went back to the kitchen to fetch hot water and returned to the room.
"Eldest Sister-in-Law, I saw Old Fifth and her wife storm off just now, followed by her third sister-in-law from her natal family. Our mother also came out of Old Fifth's room. I think something happened," Zhao Cuihua observed as the sisters-in-law entered the house.
With only the men working outside, she moved closer to Bai Xiuxiu to speak.
"Is that so? Maybe they couldn't agree on something with our mother?" Bai Xiuxiu had a good idea what it might be.
"She's really greedy. With our mother's attitude, giving them all the good stuff, she still isn't satisfied?" Zhao Cuihua felt angry thinking about it. If those benefits were given to her and her third brother, she wouldn't dare imagine how gentle she would be to Zhao Guifen!
Bai Xiuxiu merely smiled at her without responding.
Seeing that she couldn't get any information from Eldest Sister-in-Law, Zhao Cuihua gave up.
In the small room partitioned within the main house,
Liu Xiaoe quietly pulled Wang Qingfu into the room and spoke in a low voice, afraid of being overheard by her father-in-law.
Wang Qingfu found his wife's behavior annoying. "Why are you acting so strange? What's wrong? Are you scared someone will hear you?"
"Lower your voice. I overheard something important earlier." Liu Xiaoe tearfully recounted what she had heard outside to her husband.
Initially annoyed, Wang Qingfu's irritation shifted after hearing her.
Three hundred fifty yuan, for them to come up with themselves?
He dared not hope that his parents would give it to him instead of Old Fifth.
Old Fifth had a wife who could borrow money from her natal family. What about him?
Liu Xiaoe certainly wasn't the type to go home and borrow money.
Thinking about this, Wang Qingfu's mood plummeted.
"What should we do? This good opportunity..." Liu Xiaoe started crying again.
"What are you crying about? Can I even count on your natal family? Let's use our private savings first. Once I become a worker, I can save up again. But starting in spring, you must work hard in the fields and earn ten points every day.
Otherwise, we won't save much by the end of the year.
This is also to make up for your natal family not lending us money. Don't blame me."
Wang Qingfu said coldly, feeling he was being generous.
Liu Xiaoe hadn't given him a son yet, just two daughters, but he hadn't complained. It was all Liu Xiaoe's fault, and he was still willing to live with her, which made him a good man.
Liu Xiaoe nodded while wiping her tears. "I understand. It's my fault. Don't worry, I'll definitely get pregnant this year and give you a son next year. You can rely on me for the fieldwork."
"Alright, stop crying."
Wang Qingfu was satisfied.
On the other side, Zhou Jiaojiao led Wang Qingqi back home with her third sister-in-law.
Throughout the journey, her third sister-in-law kept staring at the items they carried, smiling broadly. "With Eldest Brother and Second Brother coming back, our house will be lively tonight. By the way, Jiaojiao, when is the matter you told me about happening?"
"What matter?" Wang Qingqi was curious too.
"None of your business. Go ahead with the things; I have something to discuss with Third Sister-in-Law." Zhou Jiaojiao no longer had a good attitude towards Wang Qingqi.
No one in the Wang family was good. Before marriage, Wang Qingqi said his parents treated him best, but now they weren't giving him any money either.
Wang Qingqi claimed to love her but still expected her to work hard.
If not for Bai Xiuxiu, she might have accepted it. But Bai Xiuxiu lived better than her, and thinking about it made her resentful.
"Third Sister-in-Law, I heard that in two days, our team is organizing a fish-catching event with three villages together. I'll trick Bai Xiuxiu into coming along, and you find the right moment, okay? The section of the river with many stones is the best spot."
Thinking about the plan, Zhou Jiaojiao felt pleased.
It was late autumn. Even if rescued quickly, falling into the water would cause lasting health issues. Plus, during the fish-catching event, everyone would be watching. If she ended up soaked, it would be humiliating.
She didn't believe Eldest Brother wouldn't despise Bai Xiuxiu.
Better yet, if Bai Xiuxiu died.
But regardless, she shouldn't have an easy life.
"I'm just saying, little sister, what exactly is your grudge against your Eldest Sister-in-Law? Doing such a wicked deed, what if we face retribution? And what if something goes wrong on that day?"
Her third sister-in-law looked conflicted.
She truly didn't want to do it, but her little sister promised to help her husband get a job.
Knowing her little sister's luck, maybe it could work?
The village river shouldn't kill anyone, right?
Wednesday Sister-in-Law hoped nothing major would happen.
Zhou Jiaojiao, sensing her hesitation, was displeased. "What? Are you having second thoughts now?"
"No, I just don't want to cause trouble where there isn't any," Wednesday Sister-in-Law couldn't understand why they had to be so harsh.
Zhou Jiaojiao sneered, and her usually pretty face looked rather frightening at that moment.
"I just can't stand her. I'm better than her in every way, yet she lives a better life without doing anything. How is that fair? All she did was marry a good man," Zhou Jiaojiao grew more agitated as she spoke.
Wednesday Sister-in-Law fell silent immediately.
Could Little Sister have set her sights on her sister-in-law's husband?
That would be her brother-in-law, wouldn't it?
Little Sister is truly terrifying.
But Wang Qinghe is indeed capable; if he could listen to Little Sister in the future, their family might benefit too?
"Anyway, don't ask anymore. Just do as I say, and everything will be fine. Let's go home quickly; I need to talk to my mom about something," Zhou Jiaojiao thought about borrowing money and felt troubled.
Her status at home wasn't low, but she was married now.
Borrowing money wouldn't be easy, and there would likely be significant losses.
At the Wang household.
Wang Shoucheng pondered for a while and decided to handle the matter with his second son himself.
So he knocked on the partition door.
Wang Qingfu knew the reason already and calmly opened the door.
Looking at his second son, Wang Shoucheng was straightforward. "Old Second, today your mother mentioned giving you money for jobs. Your mother is being overly partial. However, Dad can't agree with this. It's for the sake of the harmony among your brothers."
Chapter 97
Wang Qingfu was speechless. Clearly, his father was just being stingy and didn't want to give them the money, yet he made it sound so reasonable.
Seeing that his son didn't trust him, Wang Shoucheng felt troubled. All his sons had inherited their mother's stubborn temper, only wanting tangible benefits.
None of them seemed to have inherited any of his good qualities.
"Over these years, I've always treated you and Old Fifth the best. However, we can't go overboard. Your other brothers aren't fools either, and you've been saving quite a bit recently. Do you think why I let you keep some money privately?
Isn't it all for you and Old Fifth?"
Wang Shoucheng sighed, seemingly disappointed in his son.
Wang Qingfu was even more speechless. Wasn't it because of the commotion caused by his eldest brother and sister-in-law that they were given money?
However, if he wanted to change his mind, he would need some benefit.
Wang Qingfu thought about it and then knelt down before his father: "Dad, I know you're good to me. But my heart is bitter too. The little money Xiaoe and I have, I want to use it to improve my health so that Xiaoe can bear me a son.
Eldest Brother's son will be old enough to go to school in a couple of years, but my son hasn't even been born yet."
"How much does improving your health cost? We'll be distributing food soon, and when the time comes, I'll have your mom get you some eggs to eat." Wang Shoucheng wasn't worried anymore after hearing his son's concern was just about food.
How much could one meal really be?
"Thank you, Dad. As for buying the job, Xiaoe and I will figure it out ourselves. You and Mom have already done so much for us; I can't keep relying on you." Wang Qingfu knew when to stop.
If his father wouldn't give them money, no matter how much he complained, his father wouldn't change his mind.
It was better to ask for a small favor instead.
Even Eldest Brother got eggs to eat, so why shouldn't he?
Eldest Brother had to share his eggs with his wife and two children, but he didn't have to.
"You're understanding. Don't worry, the money you lost will come back soon." With his goal achieved, Wang Shoucheng spoke more gently.
"I'm going out for a walk. Second Son, don't rest too long; go finish up the house repairs later. It'll be cold in a few days, and we won't be able to paint the walls inside if you don't finish soon." Wang Shoucheng left after saying this.
Liu Xiaoe, thinking about having to spend money, wanted to cry: "Did I hear that right?"
"Enough with the crying. Gather the family's money first. Also, Dad said he'd give us eggs to eat, so don't be greedy and steal them. These are for me to improve my health and have a son." Wang Qingfu was in a bad mood.
Seeing Liu Xiaoe's resentful face made him even more unhappy.
Without hesitation, Liu Xiaoe agreed: "Don't worry, I won't eat them. Improving your health is most important for us to have a son."
"Right. I'm going to work now. You should hurry to the kitchen and help more around the house, especially in the kitchen." Wang Qingfu thought that his parents couldn't earn much money.
His father's confidence earlier might be because Old Fifth and his wife had some tricks up their sleeves.
No matter who it was, as long as they could help him become a worker and earn money, it was fine.
Liu Xiaoe hadn't expected her husband to ask her to do more work and couldn't help crying again: "Isn't everything in our house done by me? Look at Eldest Sister-in-Law next door; she does nothing and pretends to be sick every day. Look at Old Fifth's wife; she just married in, and Mom and Dad spoil her.
Third Sister-in-Law and Fourth Sister-in-Law are also lazy.
Only I can't escape doing everything. Even you don't care about me."
"Why do you cry all the time? I can't control other people's wives, but since you're mine, you need to be understanding. If Old Fifth's wife becomes successful, you should try to get close to her, and life will be better. As for Third and Fourth Sister-in-Law,
what good will come from being like them?
Just listen to me."
Wang Qingfu couldn't stand her crying and left to work.
Leaving Liu Xiaoe alone in the room to continue crying.
In the west room.
Bai Xiuxiu returned to the room, where the shrimp was almost cooked.
Wang Qinghe served the shrimp.
The children were still asleep, so Bai Xiuxiu kept half a teacup of shrimp in the space. Things in the space cooled slowly, making it perfect for storing food.
She would feed the children when they woke up and eat with Wang Qinghe first.
"Xiuxiu, I've been thinking. You mentioned wanting to catch Old Fifth's wife and her sister-in-law in the act. If they really plan to do something to you like in my dream, the best time would probably be during our team's fishing.
If they don't act during this time, we won't mention it again, okay?
I'll find another way to make their lives miserable."
Wang Qinghe looked at his wife and shared his plan.
Winter was approaching, and after the fishing season, the village would send the fish to the supply store.
After all, there wouldn't be enough fish to distribute to each household.
The entire village would participate in sending the fish collectively to the supply store in exchange for oil or other necessities.
With so many people around, it's a good opportunity for Zhou Jiaojiao and her sister-in-law from her natal family.
As for him, he'll be watching closely, ensuring Bai Xiuxiu won't fall into the water.
If they attempt to harm Xiuxiu, they can catch them in the act.
If they don't make a move that day, there's no telling when they might strike under other dangerous circumstances.
The thought of Xiuxiu being at risk of falling into the water somewhere he doesn't know drives him mad.
Wang Qinghe looks at his wife, hoping she will agree.
Bai Xiuxiu, of course, wholeheartedly agrees; this is exactly what she had planned!
If they were to take action in private when no one else is around, wouldn't everything be left to their say? What if she really ends up unlucky?
That day, with many people around, she would also be prepared.
Qinghe will be there too, and his presence gives her peace of mind.
Seeing her agreement, Wang Qinghe still feels uneasy, but it's much better than the torment he felt before.
It's all his fault for letting Xiuxiu stay in such an environment in the Wang household, causing her to encounter so many troubles.
At the Zhou household.
Zhou Jiaojiao and Wang Qingqi brought meat and eggs, immediately receiving a warm welcome from the family.
Wang Qingqi was praised so highly by his in-laws that he almost felt like floating.
Zhou Jiaojiao is currently preoccupied with borrowing money. If she needed to inquire about going to the commune from her brothers before, now that things are settled, the most important thing is borrowing money.
"Jiaojiao, what's wrong with you? Why are you distracted since you got here?" Tian Xiaolan, Zhou Jiaojiao's mother, worriedly pulls her daughter aside and asks softly.
The recent excitement at the Old Wang household has left her feeling uneasy. Her daughter's marriage into the Old Wang household has been a stroke of luck for them, making her reconsider how she treats her daughter.
Zhou Jiaojiao thinks that discussing this with her mother might be reliable, so she whispers back, "Mom, could you accompany me to the kitchen?"
Chapter 98
To the kitchen?
Tian Xiaolan found it a bit strange, but everyone was eating, and there was no need for her to do anything, so she agreed.
Wang Qingqi had been glancing at his wife with the corner of his eye. Seeing her follow her mother into the kitchen, Wang Qingqi felt relieved. As long as his wife spoke up, this matter would definitely work out.
He wasn't borrowing a lot of money; surely the Zhou family wouldn't be short of one hundred yuan?
Entering the kitchen, Tian Xiaolan noticed her daughter's reluctance to speak and had an uneasy suspicion. "Jiaojiao, did you run into some trouble?"
Zhou Jiaojiao nodded awkwardly and told her about buying the job.
"Such a good opportunity? Can Old Wang's family arrange something similar for your Third Brother and Fourth Brother? Your Third Brother and Fourth Brother are still farming at home. You, with such a good opportunity, why didn't you think of the family first?" Tian Xiaolan immediately became agitated. Book Bag Pavilion
This is a job, something even city people can't always get.
It's only because their county and commune have some surplus that there's a chance.
Her daughter really is stubborn. How could Old Wang's family be on her side?
It should be her own family.
Seeing her mother's reaction, Zhou Jiaojiao's heart sank.
"Mom, I don't have enough money to buy the job; I'm still short by one hundred and fifty yuan. Could you lend me the money? When my husband and I have the money, we'll pay you back. Don't worry, it won't be a free loan; I'll buy you a nice set of clothes."
Zhou Jiaojiao quickly explained the main issue.
Borrow money?
Tian Xiaolan's face immediately fell. "What? You have a good opportunity and didn't think of your brothers, yet you want to borrow money from the family? Where do we have any money? Look at your nephews; they eat so much. The family is almost starving."
Hearing this, Zhou Jiaojiao couldn't help but feel angry. "How could that be? No matter what, our family isn't that poor. Back when I went to the mountains..."
"Your sisters-in-law also suffered a lot. Forget them; even my leg still hurts whenever it rains." Tian Xiaolan changed her tone as soon as money was mentioned.
Zhou Jiaojiao felt like crying in frustration. "Fine, Mom. If you don't help me today, don't expect any benefits when my husband and I are better off. You're trying to push me to the brink; consider me dead from now on."
Zhou Jiaojiao turned to leave.
Tian Xiaolan thought about it and realized she couldn't let her go. She still hoped this girl could bring her some benefits, and there was the matter of the job. What if she could get more jobs later?
"Jiaojiao, why are you in such a hurry? Can't I say a few words when you make a mistake?" Tian Xiaolan pulled her daughter back.
Zhou Jiaojiao's eyes were red with tears, feeling deeply wronged.
"This amount of money isn't small. In our village, families who live well would be grateful to save this much in a year. I can't just lend it to you. I remember the clothes, but you also have to help your Third Brother get a job.
Rest assured, we'll pay for it ourselves, but you have to help us find a job."
Tian Xiaolan was intrigued by the Wang family's ability to secure jobs. Over the years, the Old Wang family had kept a low profile, yet they still had such connections.
It's truly unfair. If only her family had this capability, things would be so much better.
When Zhou Jiaojiao heard that she could buy a job for her third brother, she felt resentful about the conditions and demands placed on her.
Indeed, after marriage, she was no longer considered a daughter of the Old Zhou family.
She had previously thought about involving her family in the black market trade, but now it seemed unnecessary.
"Alright, I'll do as you say. You lend me the money first, and once my husband gets his job, I'll ask my mother-in-law to plead with my husband's maternal uncle." Zhou Jiaojiao agreed readily, figuring she'd worry about success later—getting the money first was the priority!
"Good, I'll discuss it with your father, and I'll give you the money before you leave."
Tian Xiaolan happily went to the kitchen and fried two more eggs.
When it was time to leave, Zhou Jiaojiao received 150 yuan.
Wang Qingqi, upon seeing the money, immediately began fantasizing about his future as a worker.
Zhou Jiaojiao, with a grim face, recounted what had happened.
Upon hearing this, Wang Qingqi also became angry: "They're really ruthless, especially since you're their daughter. But don't worry, dear; from now on, you can rely on me. I'll treat you well."
Zhou Jiaojiao felt a bit better.
When Zhou Jiaojiao and Wang Qingqi returned, the family had already finished dinner.
Bai Xiuxiu was already lying on the kang, sipping a cup of brown sugar water, watching her husband put their two children to sleep. She felt content with life.
"Tomorrow, I'll go to the city to deliver mountain goods to my eldest sister and our mother. I've already discussed it with Uncle Wu Si; he'll smoke the game for me, and I'll meet him in the mountains to collect it. Besides what I hunted, I bought a few rabbits from him.
I'll send everything out tomorrow."
After tucking the children in and pulling the curtain aside, Wang Qinghe came over to his wife and told her about this plan.
Hearing this, Bai Xiuxiu was delighted and kissed him several times: "You always think so carefully. By the way, remember to follow up on the job and housing. Don't do manual labor; it's bad for your health.
It's a pity you didn't go to middle school, but it doesn't matter; I'll teach you.
Who knows... maybe one day you could even go to college."
Thinking about the glimpses of the future she had seen while floating behind him, Bai Xiuxiu believed it wasn't impossible.
Wang Qinghe was so smart; there was nothing he couldn't do.
Wang Qinghe hadn't expected his wife to not look down on him for his lack of education.
Touched deeply, but unable to utter a word.
"It's time to rest." Bai Xiuxiu was feeling a bit sleepy and tugged at him.
Wang Qingqi, even more eager, soon had his arms around her.
Early morning.
Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe, under the watchful eyes of the family, unburdened, shared two eggs steamed into an egg custard with their two children.
Watching this made Zhou Jiaojiao feel uneasy, but then she thought about how her husband would become a worker today, and she cheered up. Proudly, she discussed with her mother-in-law, Zhao Guifen, "Mom, since my man is going to handle work matters today, should I go along too?"
"What would you go for? You need to go up the mountain. Which family in our village isn't going up the mountain these days?" Zhao Guifen refused outright.
What nonsense?
The family is short on money!
Zhou Jiaojiao felt a pang of anger, but then realized she indeed should go up the mountain, so she calmed down.
Zhao Cuihua, upon hearing about the job, knew that the job matter had been settled.
However, she wasn't sure if it was due to the money given by their parents.
"Mom, about the job..." Chen Fang frowned, having known about their new jobs yesterday, but where did they get the money from?
"What? Do you want one too? Well, you'd have to be capable and have the money. This money was provided by Second Brother and Old Fifth themselves; they borrowed it from their maternal home. If you want a job, your men need to be capable first, and then you need to have the money to buy them a job. Otherwise, forget it."
Zhao Guifen infuriated Chen Fang.
Bai Xiuxiu didn't bother listening to their squabbles; the household was already chaotic enough without her stirring things up.
"Eldest daughter-in-law, wait a moment, I have something to tell you." Seeing her about to leave, Zhao Guifen, remembering her plan to provoke her eldest daughter-in-law, quickly called her back.
Chapter 99
Bai Xiuxiu had just gotten up and was waiting for her husband to carry the two children when she heard Zhao Guifen calling her name, leaving her puzzled.
Ever since the Wang family fell into chaos, this mother-in-law rarely approached her on her own initiative.
What could she want now?
"Mom, if you have something to say, say it to me; don't involve Xiuxiu," Wang Qinghe said as he picked up the two children, cutting off Zhao Guifen's words.
The mess in the Wang family should be his responsibility. Why involve Xiuxiu?
"How can this matter concern you? Your wife is also my daughter-in-law. What do you mean? All your younger brothers' wives can work, but your wife is different?" Zhao Guifen stared at Bai Xiuxiu, determined to keep this eldest daughter-in-law at home doing chores.
Only then could she provoke Bai Xiuxiu.
If Bai Xiuxiu were to strike her, the division of the household would be settled!
Anyone who dared to hit her, this mother-in-law, must be expelled from the family with not a single cent given to them. Book Bag Pavilion
"The household chores are the same whether I do them or my wife does them. This matter doesn't concern Xiuxiu. She is my wife, not yours, Mom. Xiuxiu, you should head to the brigade now. If you're late, it might cause trouble."
Wang Qinghe had no intention of letting his wife get involved in these messy affairs.
Zhao Guifen, choked by her eldest son's words, couldn't come up with a retort and puffed up like a toad in anger.
"You, you!"
Why didn't her eldest son continue being a mute?
Bai Xiuxiu gave Zhao Guifen a provocative smile: "Mom, you should hurry out and start carrying manure. Didn't you take a day off yesterday? Remember to make up for it today."
"It's none of your business!" Zhao Guifen immediately lost her composure.
This eldest daughter-in-law was so annoying!
"Mom, this matter falls under the Women's Federation. By the way, you said that Second Brother and Old Fifth got their jobs because our maternal relatives paid for them. Actually, my husband and I also want such a job. My maternal relatives can help with the money too.
Mom, why don't you help us find one?
Even though he didn't study much, he has great strength. What kind of work can't he handle?"
Bai Xiuxiu's casual remark instantly cleared Chen Fang's mind, which had been clouded with anger.
Right, is this about money?
"Mom, Big Sister is right; you're being too partial. Second Brother and Old Fifth can go to the city, but we can't? We can pay the money too." Chen Fang demanded an explanation from Zhao Guifen, feeling indignant.
Beside her, Zhao Cuihua chimed in without hesitation: "Exactly! You're clearly being partial. Why should Big Sister work? I think all the household chores should be done by Old Fifth's wife and Second Sister. They get all the benefits, so why should we do the work?"
"Are you two rebelling?"
Zhao Guifen couldn't respond to her daughters-in-law's questions, feeling frustrated. How could the third and fourth sons not listen to her and the old man?
She had told them that the whole family would have a good life eventually.
Zhou Jiaojiao hadn't expected Bai Xiuxiu's few words to stir up such a commotion.
Feeling anxious, she thought this wouldn't do.
If this continued, Bai Xiuxiu would tear the family apart.
She had pondered all night. The black market trade truly needed this family. At least, if they were ever caught, she needed someone to take the blame. This family was perfect for that purpose. No matter what, her hands had to remain clean.
Watching the family's turmoil, Bai Xiuxiu left with satisfaction.
At the door, Wang Qinghe was waiting for her.
"I'll send you to the brigade before I leave," Wang Qinghe said, holding the two children, both wearing blue hats without any embroidery by Bai Xiuxiu.
But even without the embroidery, the children still looked adorable.
To Bai Xiuxiu, Wang Qinghe looked quite cute holding the children.
"Alright, then take me to the brigade first."
Bai Xiuxiu walked beside him, pondering Zhao Guifen's attitude: "Mom seems a bit off today."
Wang Qinghe thought for a moment and nodded: "Yes, she does seem strange. It seems she wants to cause trouble for you. Xiuxiu, don't engage with her for the next few days. Let me handle anything that comes up. After all, the household chores won't kill anyone.
It's no big deal for me."
"Don't worry, I understand."
Bai Xiuxiu was well-versed in this. Ever since marrying Wang Qinghe, she had always avoided such situations.
She wasn't good at household chores and was slow at farm work.
He always helped her.
No matter how Zhao Guifen pressured or mocked her, Bai Xiuxiu ignored it and retreated to her room.
And he had always kept his promise, never changing.
When they arrived at the brigade, Wang Qinghe handed the two children to his wife: "I'm going to the mountains..."
Seeing no one around, Bai Xiuxiu kissed him quickly: "Go ahead. Be careful when you get to the city. You've taken so much money."
She whispered her instructions and then led the two children toward the brigade.
Wang Qinghe touched his face and, with a silly smile, turned back to walk toward the mountain.
In the room of the Women's Federation, Chen Jinhua was the only one there, busy with something. Bai Xiuxiu was a bit surprised. "Aunt Jinhua, why aren't Miaomiao and Sister Xiaohui here today?"
"Don't even mention it. Zhonghe Village just reported that someone is trying to sell a child. At their age, they're still doing the child bride thing? Isn't this ridiculous? They went over there." Chen Jinhua felt disgraced thinking about it. Wasn't her daughter still her own child?
Really, she had no idea what they were thinking.
Looking at Bai Xiuxiu's two children, both so lively, Chen Jinhua couldn't help but like them. "Look at our Mingming and Yueyue; they're raised so well. If everyone could be like you and your husband, it would be great. Whether it's a son or a daughter, they're equally good.
By the way, I've never seen the two daughters of Wang Laoer."
Chen Jinhua remembered that Wang Laoer also had children, roughly the same age as Xiuxiu's.
Even Bai Xiuxiu rarely saw those two children except during meals.
And during meals, most of the food for those two children ended up in Wang Qingfu's mouth, claiming he did more work.
Bai Xiuxiu, of course, didn't hide this from Wang Qingfu and told Chen Jinhua about it.
Upon hearing this, Chen Jinhua cursed angrily, "There's not a single decent person in their family. I think you and your husband should move out and separate from them sooner. Don't worry; everyone in our village knows how much work your husband does. If you separate, I won't let them take advantage of you."
"Thank you, Aunt Jinhua. I've been thinking the same thing."
Bai Xiuxiu readily agreed. With Chen Jinhua's help, she could get the money more smoothly when separating.
She wouldn't rest until she had drained every last penny from them.
After circling around the mountain and meeting Uncle Wu, Wang Qinghe went to the county town and mailed the items at the post office.
Just as he left the post office, he ran into Xiao Zhang walking toward him.
Seeing Wang Qinghe, Xiao Zhang quickly waved and pointed down an alley.
Wang Qinghe followed him.
"Brother Wang, I have something important to tell you!"
Chapter 100
"A big matter?" Wang Qinghe asked in confusion.
Isn't this a coincidence?
"I also have a big matter and need your help," Wang Qinghe said the same thing as Xiao Zhang.
"Let me go first, Brother Wang. I'll tell you, yesterday I took your money and gave a hundred to my brother. He was so happy that he told me something interesting. He said that in our provincial city, there's a high-ranking official who entrusted his younger brother to find a child.
But not many people know about this.
My brother went to the provincial city a few days ago to give someone a favor and heard it from someone in the black market there.
I immediately thought of your situation, Brother Wang. You think, could there be so many missing children? Isn't that a bit too coincidental?
Should I mention it to my brother?"
Xiao Zhang was a bit excited; this was indeed a huge coincidence.
Moreover, if it were true, wouldn't Brother Wang have a better life in the future?
Wouldn't he forget the person who helped him then?
His brother could also benefit from this. He was excited but didn't tell his brother about it, as if he did, the news would spread.
He couldn't gauge Brother Wang's thoughts and didn't dare to speak rashly.
Wang Qinghe's expression didn't change at all: "Xiao Zhang, don't tell your brother about this. Don't let it spread. Keep it a secret for me."
"Don't you want a better life, Brother Wang?" Xiao Zhang couldn't believe it; how could someone not want a better life?
"I do, but I prefer a peaceful life with my wife. If they're looking for me, they will eventually find me. If they're not, going to them myself would only bring trouble to both me and my wife.
I hate trouble."
Wang Qinghe firmly refused.
Before he mastered Uncle Zhang's traditional Chinese medicine and found a legitimate source for the things in Xiuxiu's space, he wouldn't leave here.
He absolutely didn't want to get involved in any conspiracy.
If anyone really wanted to find him, they would eventually find him.
Or... when he needed to, he would approach them in the most appropriate way.
He didn't believe that someone would love him for no reason, even if they were his real parents.
Approaching them and being found by them were completely different.
Wang Qinghe's attitude made Xiao Zhang secretly glad he hadn't mentioned it to his brother yet.
"Brother Wang, rest assured, I won't say anything."
Xiao Zhang's straightforward attitude also improved Wang Qinghe's impression of him.
"Xiao Zhang, if possible, find a way to have your elder brother gather more information about the other party. They might not be looking for me, but I'm curious. Remember, gather information privately." Wang Qinghe thought that if they were indeed looking for him, he needed to know their specific situation.
Knowing both sides would help him continue living peacefully.
"Sure, I'll figure something out. By the way, what big matter did you mention, Brother Wang?" Xiao Zhang agreed to take care of it. His elder brother had been running errands in the provincial city recently, so asking him wouldn't be difficult.
As long as he didn't raise his brother's suspicions.
That he could handle!
"I want to buy a job. You know my situation; I need a job that doesn't attract too much attention. Also, I need a house. Help me look for one. It doesn't need to be big, nor does it need a large courtyard."
Wang Qinghe stated his requirements.
Hearing this, Xiao Zhang was delighted: "Brother Wang, you're not planning to stay in the village anymore? That makes sense; you're different now! Finding a job might take some time, but getting a house shouldn't be too hard. Rest assured, little brother will take care of it.
When I have news, I'll send someone to inform you."
"Thank you." Wang Qinghe wasn't good at formalities, and he didn't need to be formal with Xiao Zhang.
Xiao Zhang looked at his savior and felt a bit hopeful. He had always known that Brother Wang was no ordinary person and would eventually live well. Perhaps he might rely on Brother Wang in the future.
"Brother Wang, I have something else to attend to, so I'll leave now. Rest assured, everything is on me."
Seeing a familiar face on the street ahead, Xiao Zhang quickly said goodbye to Wang Qinghe.
Brother Wang didn't like trouble, and their black market was full of it.
Otherwise, he wouldn't have needed Brother Wang to save his life before. He couldn't bring trouble to him.
After finishing his business, Wang Qinghe prepared to go to the mountains.
Passing by the supply and marketing cooperative, he paused and entered without hesitation.
In the brigade of Xiahe Village, the brigade leader looked at the grain each household could receive this year and felt happy. Their brigade was truly a good place; not only was there a bountiful harvest, but there weren't many lazy people in the village.
As long as no one went hungry, he felt relieved.
"After we distribute the grain, we'll organize the villagers to catch fish. I've already talked to the supply and marketing cooperative in the commune. The secretary of the commune facilitated this. We'll sell our village's fish to the cooperative and get their substandard goods that can't be sold this year.
We'll record what each family needs.
Then we'll try to exchange accordingly and distribute them to the villagers."
The team leader recounted the matter to the people in the Women's Federation office, and the more he spoke, the more hopeful he felt about the future.
"Salvia, Xiao Bai, when the time comes, you two should also calculate the fish for us. When we go to the supply and marketing cooperative, you'll go with Accountant Old Wang. I'll record your work points!"
The team leader spoke with newfound confidence.
Bai Xiuxiu and Salvia both readily agreed; this was definitely a good thing.
Seeing her husband happy, Chen Jinhua felt joy in her heart as well.
Their family could finally have a good New Year, unlike the past two years. In those years, every autumn, her husband would sigh with worry, looking as if he couldn't go on living.
During the New Year, it was even worse. He would distribute their grain to families who couldn't afford food, leaving their own New Year celebrations barely manageable.
They never had enough to eat!
Almost starving at times.
The past two years had been slightly better, and things were finally improving.
Things were even better these past few days, with no trouble from Old Wang's family.
As Chen Jinhua was thinking this, someone came in from outside.
"Something happened, something big."
Hearing that something had happened, the team leader's heart raced.
"What now? It can't be wild boars again, can it?" The team leader had developed a phobia over the past few days.
"What? It's Old Wang's Old Fifth's wife; she got into a fight with someone." The person was quite agitated.
"What?" The team leader was overwhelmed.
Chen Jinhua was stunned; she had just finished speaking!
Bai Xiuxiu suddenly felt a surge of anticipation—Zhou Jiaojiao getting into a fight? That was rare indeed.
"What happened? With whom did she fight?" The team leader sighed.
"With the widow Xia from Shanghe Village. Everyone knows how difficult Widow Xia is. They somehow met in the mountains today, and Old Wang's Old Fifth's wife went crazy, insisting that Widow Xia had picked her gourds.
Everything in the mountains belongs to everyone; isn't that ridiculous?
Widow Xia immediately dropped her basket and started fighting. Leader, you should go take a look."