Chapter 111
Xiahe Village, Zhonghe Village, and Shanghe Village—all three villages were built along the Xiushui River.
The river was rich in fish, and every year, just before the deep autumn turned to winter, the villages would organize a collective fishing event.
However, the fish caught could not be sold privately. Instead, they were handed over to the supply and marketing cooperative. In exchange, the villagers received various necessities they needed, which helped alleviate the shortage of ration coupons in the village.
Moreover, they could catch some small miscellaneous fish that didn't grow big in the river to enjoy at home.
This was one of the most anticipated events for the three villages, second only to the autumn harvest.
As soon as the team leader's announcement ended, families rushed to the village warehouse to fetch their fishing nets.
In the Wang family's main house.
The Wang family was having breakfast, as usual, with cornmeal mixed with bran made into steamed buns and their old friend, cabbage soup.
Upon hearing the team leader's announcement, Zhou Jiaojiao was the least composed.
She quickly put down her chopsticks and said, "Mom and Dad, let's hurry over. Fishing is a big deal; we can't afford to lose face again."
She urged the others, secretly eager to trick Bai Xiuxiu into coming along.
With fewer people around, it would be easier for Third Sister-in-Law to make her move.
She had already sent Third Sister-in-Law ahead to ensure everything went smoothly.
Wang Shoucheng frowned, displeased with his third daughter-in-law's attitude. Why was she so eager to work? It was enough that the whole family was going; there was no need to go early.
Seeing her in-laws silent, Zhou Jiaojiao secretly kicked her husband.
Wang Qingqi winced in pain but quickly supported his wife: "Mom and Dad, my wife is right. We're sending so many people anyway; going early will show everyone that we don't have any slackers."
"Old man, why don't we head out now?" Zhao Guifen was concerned about the food.
If they went so early, wouldn't they eat more when they returned?
"Alright, let's go. Fourth Daughter-in-Law has a bad leg, so you clean up the table and prepare lunch," Wang Shoucheng glanced at his fourth daughter-in-law, who had done nothing since breaking her leg.
All the daughters-in-law in this family, except for the troublemaker from the eldest son's household, had to work.
There was no rule in the family for keeping idle hands.
Chen Fang couldn't help but grumble inwardly at the thought of working.
Her injury hadn't healed yet, and she was expected to work?
And recently, her parents seemed to be feeding them less. Were they trying to starve someone?
How could she recover like this?
"Did you hear that?" Seeing her silent, Zhao Guifen scolded her.
It wasn't like when she first broke her leg; the family had been accommodating then, but how many days had passed?
"I heard it, Mom and Dad. You can leave without worry," Chen Fang reluctantly agreed.
The family set off in a grand procession.
Wang Qinghe carried the two children, watching his wife with concern.
The Wang family was large, and when they all went out together, it drew attention.
"Brother, I'm not saying anything, but why did you bring the kids? Everyone will be busy fishing; who will watch them? Aren't you just causing trouble?" Wang Qingqi glanced at Wang Qinghe, somewhat annoyed.
Big Brother was really something else. Not contributing food to the family was one thing, but now he wasn't even focused on the work. Bringing the kids along to fish—what was he thinking?
Hadn't things been fine for years? Working hard for the family, everyone getting along—why stir up trouble now?
Wang Qinghe was already annoyed and usually ignored him, especially now.
He simply followed his wife's pace, neither fast nor slow.
"What do you mean by not speaking?" Wang Qingqi was even angrier at being ignored.
"Not speaking means I think you're stupid and annoying, Old Fifth. If you can't speak properly, then stay away." Bai Xiuxiu snapped at him.
Wang Qingqi and Zhou Jiaojiao were truly irritating.
One wanted her dead, the other wanted her husband to be a laborer.
Neither was any good.
"Sister-in-Law, you..."
"My wife is right; keep your distance." Wang Qinghe pulled him back.
Wang Qingqi, not as tall or strong as Wang Qinghe, was easily dragged away.
Once he was left behind, Wang Qingqi was both embarrassed and furious.
"You stop it; you've already made enough of a fool of yourself." Zhou Jiaojiao had watched the whole scene and stopped her man from continuing the argument.
Zhou Jiaojiao usually appeared obedient and enthusiastic, with an innocent and cute appearance.
But now, her cold gaze made her seem somewhat frightening.
Zhou Jiaojiao didn't want her man to continue being a clown, nor did she want any more trouble. After today, she would make sure Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe both have a hard time. Ideally, Bai Xiuxiu would die right here, in front of her children.
That would be perfect!
Therefore, Wang Qingqi better not cause her any more trouble.
If Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe got angry and turned back home, everything would be ruined!
Wang Qingqi was startled by his wife: "Jiaojiao, why are you talking to me like this?"
Zhou Jiaojiao took a deep breath, regaining her adorable demeanor, and explained with a face full of grievance: "I'm just worried they won't want to work. Qingqi, let's discuss anything else when we get home. Out here, Dad can't help us either.
Big Brother is strong, and we'd definitely lose out. I'm doing this for your own good."
Wang Qingqi was satisfied: "You're still my smart wife, always thinking about me."
After the family picked up the fishing nets from the team, they headed to the river.
There weren't many villagers at the river yet, but there were already dozens of people.
As soon as Zhou Jiaojiao arrived at the river, she pointed west: "Mom and Dad, let's go over there? I see my family members are also on that side. If we go there, we can help each other. My mother took my labor points and food rations, so today, I'll make them give us all the small fish.
At least they should compensate us a bit."
Zhou Jiaojiao found an excuse to make her actions seem less abrupt.
When Wang Shoucheng heard there was something to gain, he had no objections.
After all, everything belonged to the village. If they did less work and still caught fish, they wouldn't get less in the end.
Every household had their plans for what to exchange this year.
Whether the fish were easy to catch where his daughter-in-law pointed wasn't an issue.
It would be best if they could rest more.
At the river, Third Sister-in-Law of the Zhou family kept looking around, drawing the attention of the others in the family.
Tian Xiaolan noticed her daughter-in-law's wandering gaze and approached her: "Third Sister-in-Law, what are you looking at?"
Chapter 112
Aunt Wednesday was pondering how to approach the situation when she was suddenly asked a question, which startled her. "Ah? What? I wasn't looking at anything. Mom, why are you here? Didn't you say you were going to catch some small fish first?"
"I saw you staring over there. Is something on your mind? Fourth Sister-in-Law said you've been spending a lot of time with Jiaojiao lately. She wouldn't be asking you to do something, would she? Listen, that girl is all about Old Wang's family. You shouldn't listen to her.
Otherwise, she might trick you without you even realizing it."
Tian Xiaolan knew well what kind of person her daughter was and what her daughter-in-law was like. These past few days, she had also been feeling uneasy.
Aunt Wednesday felt a bit guilty. She knew her sister-in-law was trying to trick her, but she really wanted her husband to go to the city too.
She had been hesitant at first, but seeing that both Old Wang's second son and her sister-in-law's husband had become workers, she became more interested.
Her husband was much better than Old Wang's second son and Old Fifth.
He just lacked a bit of luck!
So, even knowing there might be a trap, she still wanted to give it a try.
After all, it's just pushing someone into the river; what could possibly happen?
Worst case, they'd have to pay some money.
As Aunt Wednesday was convincing herself, Zhou Jiaojiao had already followed the whole family over.
Seeing the entire Wang family, Tian Xiaolan's bad feeling intensified. She regretted bringing her daughters-in-law today.
If they hadn't already arrived, she would have taken her family back home right away!
"Mother-in-law," Tian Xiaolan greeted Zhao Guifen warmly.
Zhao Guifen was pleased that the Zhou family had lent money to her youngest son, so she was quite satisfied with Tian Xiaolan as a mother-in-law.
"It's been a while since we last met. Mother-in-law, you're here to catch fish too? This job can be left to our sons, can't it? If not, you could discuss it with us, and we could send someone from our family to help," Zhao Guifen said politely.
Hearing this, Tian Xiaolan almost lost her temper.
Discuss with them?
Who in the village didn't know about their family? With such a large family, they only received a small amount of grain.
If there was no harvest this autumn, her family would starve.
All these able-bodied men were just being lazy.
It seemed that it was indeed their eldest son who had supported the family before. Thankfully, her son-in-law was going to work as a worker, so her daughter wouldn't starve.
Despite her thoughts, Tian Xiaolan maintained a polite demeanor for the Wang family's sake: "We were just sitting around at home anyway, so we thought we might as well help out the village. Besides, we just got our share of grain, and my sons were saying they wanted to eat rice with fish sauce.
So here I am, getting some fish sauce..."
"Mom, don't bother with fish sauce. My brothers love pickled cabbage, right? My in-laws have some pickled cabbage, so let's give them some fish sauce instead," Zhou Jiaojiao said confidently.
Tian Xiaolan felt even more like scolding her, but she couldn't embarrass her daughter.
More importantly, she still hoped the Wang family could get them a couple of jobs.
Thinking this, Tian Xiaolan decided to maintain her loving mother image!
"You child, why are you still competing with your brothers like before? Fine, take it. All the small fish caught by your brothers and sisters-in-law will go to your family." With that, Tian Xiaolan sighed again.
"Mother-in-law, my daughter has been spoiled by me. Please treat her well."
Zhao Guifen and Wang Shoucheng were surprised that it was actually happening.
Since there were benefits involved, they played along.
"Mom, stop talking about me."
Zhou Jiaojiao pretended to be embarrassed.
Upon noticing Aunt Wednesday's gaze, she became nervous.
"Everyone, stop standing around. Those who are strong enough should get on the boats to net the fish. Those who aren't strong enough can use the scoop nets. Children and the elderly must stay away from the center of the water and stick to the shore to collect small fish," the team leader announced through a megaphone from the east end.
Soon, everyone dispersed.
Fishing required skill, but there weren't many skilled fishermen in the village.
Most people were using scoop nets and hoping for luck.
At the supply store, they had borrowed a cart from the team, loaded with several buckets and scales.
They were waiting to weigh the fish and record the amounts.
"Xiuxiu, why are you here? Are you feeling well enough?" Chen Jinhua was helping the supply store keep records to prevent any mischief.
Seeing Bai Xiuxiu, she greeted her and ran over.
"Aunt Jinhua, you're here too? I'm fine; I'm just collecting some small fish by the riverbank. The real work is done by my husband; he's fishing," Bai Xiuxiu pointed to Wang Qinghe, who had already been assigned a wooden boat.
"Huh, that's unusual. Your husband never used to go out on the boats to fish; he always did the heaviest work, transporting the fish from the shore. Why is he using a boat this year?" Chen Jinhua was surprised.
The heaviest task in fishing was transporting the fish from the shore to the scales.
In the village, only a few strong people do this task.
Wang Qinghe usually helped in previous years, but unexpectedly, he wasn't by the riverbank this year.
Bai Xiuxiu smiled without saying a word. Her man was probably worried she might fall into the water and wanted to have a boat ready to rescue her quickly?
However, if she said she wouldn't fall into the water, she definitely wouldn't!
She hadn't provoked Zhou Jiaojiao. Zhou Jiaojiao had taken the initiative to harm others. Unless she did it herself, getting help from others might not necessarily succeed.
"You'll find it inconvenient to watch the children while catching fish. Let me keep an eye on them for you? I'll stay right here and won't move around." Chen Jinhua looked at the two children by Bai Xiuxiu's side, genuinely fond of them.
These two children were usually well-behaved. There were plenty of kids around, but none were as quiet as these two.
The two children together looked truly obedient and well-mannered.
"Thank you, Aunt Jinhua." Bai Xiuxiu was also worried about the safety of the two children if they went to the riverside with her, but leaving them at home was even more unsettling.
Aunt Jinhua helping to watch them was indeed a great relief.
"Go ahead." Chen Jinhua led the two children to the weighing area.
"Thank you, Aunt Jinhua. By the way, could you stand where the children can see me? I'm afraid they might get scared with so many people around and start looking for their mother."
Zhou Jiaojiao had been watching her closely. Seeing her return, she urgently pulled at her third sister-in-law: "She's back; go over there quickly! Remember, wait for the right opportunity..."
The third sister-in-law felt uneasy, after all, it was a bad deed.
"I know what to do. Just stay away from me for now." The third sister-in-law was annoyed and couldn't help but want to curse her husband. If he weren't useless, would she need to help her sister-in-law do such things?
The third sister-in-law pretended to struggle with catching fish and slowly moved to where Bai Xiuxiu was.
Bai Xiuxiu glanced at her out of the corner of her eye and then continued to pretend to focus on catching fish seriously.
There weren't many people around. The third sister-in-law looked around and quietly walked behind Bai Xiuxiu.
Chapter 113
Third Sister-in-Law Zhou moved behind Bai Xiuxiu, her palms sweating with nervousness.
The riverbank was bustling with people catching big fish or picking up small ones. As soon as she moved behind Bai Xiuxiu, someone passed by.
Terrified, Third Sister-in-Law Zhou quickly hid to avoid being noticed.
Bai Xiuxiu remained still, pretending to be focused on catching small fish.
At the weighing station, Chen Jinhua entertained Bai Xiuxiu's two children, occasionally leading them to glance at the river.
This way, the children could see their mother and wouldn't start fussing.
As she watched, Chen Jinhua found it strange that Old Zhou's third daughter-in-law kept moving closer to Xiuxiu.
Was there something she needed?
Chen Jinhua felt puzzled but didn't suspect anything sinister, given the crowd around them.
By the river, Third Sister-in-Law Zhou had already dodged several groups of people.
Her palms were drenched, and Zhou Jiaojiao, who was secretly observing, wanted to rush out and scold her for being so foolish. All she needed to do was push her!
What was she waiting for?
Seeing more and more people passing by, Third Sister-in-Law Zhou grew impatient.
If she waited until the fishing ended, she would miss her chance!
With this thought, she gathered her courage and circled back behind Bai Xiuxiu, pushing her forcefully with both hands.
Bai Xiuxiu had been on guard, noticing the water's reflections. The moment Third Sister-in-Law Zhou touched her back, Bai Xiuxiu shifted slightly and deliberately stepped into the shallow part of the river.
She turned and shouted angrily, "Who pushed me?"
This sudden dodge caused Third Sister-in-Law Zhou to fall directly into the river.
"What are you doing!" Chen Jinhua yelled from the weighing station, where she had been watching Bai Xiuxiu closely.
Third Sister-in-Law Zhou's push startled her.
After yelling, she grabbed Bai Xiuxiu's two children and rushed to the riverbank.
Before she took two steps, she saw Third Sister-in-Law Zhou fall into the water with a splash, drawing everyone's attention.
"Quick, someone fell in the water! Help!" someone shouted, and everyone rushed to rescue her.
Chen Jinhua ran to Bai Xiuxiu with the children.
Looking worriedly at Bai Xiuxiu, she asked, "Xiuxiu, are you okay?"
"I'm fine, Aunt Jinhua. Who fell in the water? Someone just pushed me. If I hadn't been steady, I would have fallen in too. I dodged, and she fell instead." Bai Xiuxiu pretended not to know who it was and frowned angrily.
"It's your fifth sister-in-law's maternal third sister-in-law."
Chen Jinhua was also frightened and quickly pulled the person onto the shore. "Stay away from the water; it's freezing cold now that winter is approaching. I saw her push you. I don't know what she was thinking, trying to push you into the water."
"Quick, we need more help. We haven't pulled her out yet."
Someone in the river urgently called for assistance.
Although the river wasn't swift, the cold water could easily drown someone even before reaching the center.
Anyone in the water would suffer greatly.
"Quick, bring a boat over."
The team leader arrived and shouted for a boat.
However, all the boats were far away, and waiting for one would be too late.
"Quick, a few tall men, pull her out. Whose family member fell in? Get her out quickly." The team leader was anxious.
Zhou Jiaojiao, who was secretly watching, panicked.
How did this happen?
Bai Xiuxiu seemed to know and dodged?
Why was Third Sister-in-Law so unlucky?
If she comes ashore... she might expose me, and I'll be finished.
No, absolutely not.
It would be better if she doesn't come up.
Zhou Jiaojiao sincerely hoped she wouldn't surface.
Those rescuing in the river also found it strange.
"Why is she so heavy? Pull her out quickly, or she'll freeze."
On the riverbank, Bai Xiuxiu began to realize something.
Normally, it shouldn't be this difficult to save someone, just like when she was in the same situation.
If she fell into the water, she would probably be just as hard to save as Third Sister-in-Law Zhou.
After all, if she fell in, it would only benefit Zhou Jiaojiao.
As for Third Sister-in-Law Zhou... If she were to come back up, it would only bring countless troubles to Zhou Jiaojiao. If Third Sister-in-Law Zhou died, there would be no one to testify, and no one would know why she tried to push her into the water.
"Jinhua Auntie, why haven't we seen anyone from the Zhou family?" Bai Xiuxiu asked, turning around.
Chen Jinhua found this strange too: "Indeed, where are they?"
"The one who fell in is Old Zhou's third daughter-in-law. You should quickly find her family."
The commotion here was quite noticeable, and soon the Zhou family heard about it.
Upon hearing that her own daughter-in-law had fallen into the water, Tian Xiaolan's bad feeling grew even stronger.
She immediately spotted her daughter watching from the edge of the crowd and pulled her over. "What are you standing there for? It's your third sister-in-law who fell in; hurry to the front."
Tian Xiaolan's movement was not small, and Bai Xiuxiu and Chen Jinhua also heard it.
Bai Xiuxiu pushed through the crowd and looked at the nervous Zhou Jiaojiao. "Fifth Sister-in-Law, why aren't you going forward to take a look? That's your maternal sister-in-law. What are you doing staying back here?"
"I'm afraid I might get in the way."
Zhou Jiaojiao dared not look at Bai Xiuxiu now.
Bai Xiuxiu's purpose in finding Zhou Jiaojiao wasn't just this. She hinted at something more. "Are you afraid of getting in the way, or do you not want her to be saved?"
This single question left Zhou Jiaojiao in a panic, clutching her mother's sleeve tightly.
"How could that be? She's my maternal sister-in-law. How could I? Of course, I hope she gets saved!"
Having gotten the answer she wanted, Bai Xiuxiu stopped talking.
With Zhou Jiaojiao's statement, perhaps they could save her. No matter what method they used, having this statement was enough. After all, if Third Sister-in-Law Zhou really died, there would be no one to testify.
"Then hurry to the front and help! Sister Tian, you should go help too." Chen Jinhua called both of them to the front.
Tian Xiaolan, with her daughter, went to the riverbank, her unease growing even more.
Could this... have something to do with my daughter?
What exactly have these two been up to behind my back?
As this mother-daughter pair went to help, Chen Jinhua hesitated a bit. Logically, she should go too.
But Xiuxiu had just been pushed...
"Xiuxiu, are you alright?" Wang Qinghe rushed over after docking the boat.
Seeing his wife's pants soaked, he quickly helped her wring out the water.
He then took off his own shoes and gave them to her. "Wear mine first. They're a bit big, but I'll carry you home later, so you won't fall."
Chapter 114
"It's not possible... we should still go back now." Wang Qinghe frowned.
Seeing Wang Qinghe come over, Chen Jinhua immediately felt relieved. "Xiuxiu, you should go back with your husband first. I'll go help rescue the person. Don't worry; Auntie will make sure justice is served."
"Auntie, I'd rather stay here. I'm afraid something might happen," Bai Xiuxiu refused to leave. She hadn't yet confronted the person who pushed her into the water.
With the plan so close to success, she couldn't let anything go wrong now.
"You... alright then, I'll go ahead," Chen Jinhua was worried about her, but seeing Wang Qinghe by her side, she felt reassured. Wang Qinghe would take good care of Xiuxiu. With him there, nothing bad would happen.
Wang Qinghe couldn't stop his wife from staying if she didn't want to go back.
At least she had changed into his shoes and wouldn't catch a cold.
"Wife, didn't we agree that you wouldn't go into the water?" Wang Qinghe dared not think about how his heart nearly stopped when he saw someone push her earlier.
Bai Xiuxiu smiled at him guiltily. "I did it on purpose; it had to look real. Only my shoes got wet."
"No more of this in the future."
Wang Qinghe realized he really couldn't do anything about his wife's stubbornness.
With Zhou Jiaojiao helping, the person was quickly rescued.
"The person has been saved. Hurry, get them some help! Where's Old Zhang? Who has a cotton coat? Quickly change her into one. You few, find something to cover her up. As her family member, you should take care of her.
Jinhua, hurry and get some hot water for her."
Up front, the team leader was frantically busy.
Old Zhang directed Tian Xiaolan and Zhou Jiaojiao to help drain the water and gave her a shot, which helped Wednesday Sister-in-Law regain consciousness.
When Wednesday Sister-in-Law woke up, she found herself wearing someone else's cotton coat, with her mother-in-law and sister-in-law by her side. She was completely bewildered.
"Third Sister-in-Law, you finally woke up. You scared us to death. Why did you fall into the water?" Zhou Jiaojiao sobbed, feeling extremely anxious.
Now that things had reached this point, they could only deny everything.
That shout from Chen Jinhua earlier...
She wasn't sure if Chen Jinhua had seen anything.
Zhou Jiaojiao looked pleadingly at her mother, having already explained the situation in a whisper while they were busy.
This was her own mother; surely she wouldn't side with her sister-in-law in such matters?
Sisters-in-law can be replaced, but daughters cannot.
Zhou Jiaojiao's thoughts aligned perfectly with Tian Xiaolan's.
Tian Xiaolan was also distressed, but given the situation, she secretly wished her daughter-in-law were dead.
Living was just causing trouble!
"She woke up?"
Chen Jinhua had just asked someone for hot water and heard the crying, so she asked her husband.
"Yes, thankfully nothing happened." The team leader genuinely felt that something was off in Xiahe Village recently, very off!
Wild boars in the mountains, arguments with Widow Xia from the neighboring village, and even the manure pile being ruined. Now, during fish catching, someone fell into the water.
Most frighteningly, these incidents all seemed connected to Old Fifth, the wife of Wang Shoucheng's family!
This time, it was her own sister-in-law who fell in!
Hearing that nothing happened, Chen Jinhua sneered. "Since she's fine, I have something to discuss with her."
"Wait until she recovers before bringing up any issues. The water is freezing; she needs to rest. One less person fishing won't make a difference," the team leader frowned, unsure what his wife's issue could be more important than her health.
"Team Leader, this matter can't wait for her to rest," Bai Xiuxiu said as she approached from the crowd.
Beside her was Wang Qinghe, holding their two children.
"What's going on?" The team leader was confused.
"Team Leader, when Zhou Lao San's wife fell into the water, it wasn't an accident. She tried to push me in, but I dodged, and she fell instead! Look, I stepped into the water when she pushed me."
Bai Xiuxiu threw her wet shoe on the ground.
The team leader was stunned.
How could this be? Did Zhou Lao San's wife lose her mind?
"I saw it too," Chen Jinhua immediately testified.
Looking around at the people who hadn't dispersed, she continued: "I promised to watch Xiuxiu's children for a bit so she could fish calmly by the river. We were worried the children would cry for their mother, so we made sure Xiuxiu stood where we could see her.
When I brought the children to see her, I saw Zhou Lao San's wife push Xiuxiu.
She had been circling behind Xiuxiu for quite some time. I wondered what she was up to, but never imagined she was trying to harm someone.
Anyone with half a brain wouldn't do something like this!"
Chen Jinhua wished she could drag the person out and spit on her.
"I also saw Zhou Lao San's wife circling around there earlier, blocking the way. I thought it was nothing, but now you're saying she pushed someone into the water? And it was her sister-in-law's sister-in-law? What kind of madness is this!"
Someone in the crowd added another remark.
This time, Wednesday Sister-in-Law panicked.
Not just her, but even Tian Xiaolan and Zhou Jiaojiao were also panicking.
Zhou Jiaojiao, with tears welling up, grabbed Tian Xiaolan's hand, silently pleading for help.
Tian Xiaolan felt her head spinning!
Tian Xiaolan was at a loss and could only turn to her daughter-in-law: "Third Sister-in-Law, you have to help Jiaojiao. If you get into trouble, it won't affect Jiaojiao. Don't push the blame onto her; we'll try to help you too.
If anything happens to Jiaojiao, I won't let you off!
I'll make Third divorce you."
Their voices were as soft as mosquitoes.
No one outside could hear them clearly.
"Stop hiding inside there, all of you. Everyone, take down the barricade," Chen Jinhua said, even more irritated by their feigned ignorance.
Once the barricade was removed, everyone started pointing and whispering.
Chen Jinhua immediately asked, "Xu Xiaojuan, why did you push Xiuxiu into the water?"
Wednesday Sister-in-Law panicked and was about to speak.
But Bai Xiuxiu spoke first: "Yes, why did you push me into the water? It's so cold today, and the water is so deep. Were you trying to drown me? This is attempted murder, and you could be arrested. Think about your child; if you end up in jail for decades, what will happen to your child?"
Xu Xiaojuan was stunned.
She suddenly turned to look at her mother-in-law and sister-in-law.
They had deceived her!
If Bai Xiuxiu hadn't spoken first, she would have followed her mother-in-law's instructions and claimed responsibility.
She had even prepared her excuse, saying that Bai Xiuxiu always bullied Jiaojiao.
These two together didn't have a complete heart; they were utterly despicable!
"We have no grudges or enmity between us. There's a big difference between you wanting to harm me on your own and someone else making you do it." Seeing Xu Xiaojuan's pale face, Bai Xiuxiu continued to press her advantage.
Chapter 115
Xu Xiaojuan's mind was in a whirl. Bai Xiuxiu's words made her wish she could turn back time.
That dead girl, Zhou Jiaojiao, had asked her to do something so dangerous?
She had thought at worst she would just get scolded.
But now it turned out she might go to jail?
How could that be?
"It wasn't me..."
Xu Xiaojuan hurriedly tried to explain.
"Big Sister-in-Law, is this a misunderstanding? How could my Third Sister-in-Law want to harm you? Third Sister-in-Law, you agree, right?" Zhou Jiaojiao sensed trouble and quickly defended her Third Sister-in-Law.
If the Third Sister-in-Law admitted it was a misunderstanding, then it wouldn't be intentional sabotage.
Even if the Third Sister-in-Law were detained, it wouldn't be for long. And it wouldn't implicate her—this was the best solution!
The Third Sister-in-Law didn't want to cooperate with Zhou Jiaojiao. She wished she could take a knife and fight her mother-in-law and sister-in-law.
"What misunderstanding? It's not a misunderstanding!" The Third Sister-in-Law sneered.
Pointing at Zhou Jiaojiao, she cursed, "You dead girl, if you hadn't asked me to harm your Big Sister-in-Law, would I have pushed her into the water? What do I have against her? Let me tell you, it was all Zhou Jiaojiao. She wanted to harm you, so she came to me.
She said to push you into the water, and it would be best if you died, or at least got sick. Even if you didn't get sick, you'd be soaking wet, revealing everything.
It was all her idea!
She doesn't like you, so she wants to harm you."
"That's not true. Third Sister-in-Law, how can you blame me? When did I ever say to push anyone into the water? Do you have any evidence? I'm trying to help you explain, but you're falsely accusing me?" Zhou Jiaojiao wished she could push her Third Sister-in-Law back into the water.
When Tian Xiaolan heard her daughter-in-law say this, she rushed over and slapped her twice.
Red marks instantly appeared on Xu Xiaojuan's face.
"I see you've gone mad, wanting no one to live well. Not only did you push Jiaojiao's Big Sister-in-Law into the water, but you also want to pin the blame on Jiaojiao. You hate our Old Zhou family, don't you?
What? You're not part of the Old Zhou family? You haven't given birth to a child for us?
If you don't want to live, at least let your son live!"
Tian Xiaolan's eyes were like those of a hungry wolf.
She almost said outright that if she continued to talk nonsense, it would affect her son too.
Thinking of her son, Tian Xiaolan's heart softened.
She began to sob.
"Xu Xiaojuan, what's wrong with you? And Zhou Jiaojiao, is this really not related to you?" The team leader, seeing their family drama, lost his good mood for fishing.
He was secretly glad he hadn't gone with Shanghe Village to fish; otherwise, today would have been chaos here in Xiahe Village.
Thankfully, he was here.
This mess...
"Xu Xiaojuan, if you spend ten or twenty years inside, won't your husband find someone else? Why are you so foolish? We aren't close; why did you push me? If your children end up with a stepmother, will they be okay?
Will your mother-in-law take care of them?
Won't your whole life be ruined?"
Bai Xiuxiu frowned, speaking with heartfelt concern.
Every word reminded Xu Xiaojuan that if she spent ten or twenty years in prison, her life would be over.
If something happened to her, her mother-in-law wouldn't be reliable!
Even now, while she was still outside, her mother-in-law was willing to sacrifice her for her sister-in-law.
If she went inside, neither her sister-in-law nor her mother-in-law would care about her son's wellbeing.
After all, the Old Zhou family had more than one grandson, and her husband could have children with someone else.
If she could start over, she would never listen to Zhou Jiaojiao again.
Xu Xiaojuan felt both sad and regretful.
"Big Sister-in-Law, why are you talking to my Third Sister-in-Law like this? Although she pushed you into the water, it wasn't intentional. Can't you forgive her?" Zhou Jiaojiao was genuinely afraid Xu Xiaojuan couldn't handle it and would spill everything.
She wanted Bai Xiuxiu to stop talking.
Bai Xiuxiu felt that no matter how many times she encountered Zhou Jiaojiao, she would always be speechless at her logic.
Looking at Zhou Jiaojiao's smug face, Bai Xiuxiu smiled, "Why are you in such a hurry? It was your Third Sister-in-Law who pushed me into the water, yet you're even more anxious than she is. Forgiving her isn't impossible. How about you jump in for a bit, and I'll forgive your Third Sister-in-Law?"
"Do you want me to die?" Zhou Jiaojiao couldn't believe there was someone so malicious.
Wouldn't jumping into that water freeze her to death?
"How is it? So you knew all along? I thought you didn't know. Didn't your third sister-in-law push me into the water to kill me?"
Bai Xiuxiu asked sarcastically.
Zhou Jiaojiao looked around anxiously, trying to see if her in-laws were nearby.
At least this matter...
"Xu Xiaojuan, what's really going on?" the team leader asked again.
The third sister-in-law was already desperate; it was all Zhou Jiaojiao's fault!
"Team Leader, she made me do it! It was her!" The third sister-in-law pointed at Zhou Jiaojiao, insisting it was her.
"I didn't do it. Really, it wasn't me! Qingqi! Where are you? Help me! Mom, help me, I didn't make her do this." Zhou Jiaojiao sobbed uncontrollably.
Anyone who saw her would feel sorry for her; it didn't seem like she did it.
"How can it not be you? Team Leader, it really was her." The third sister-in-law had no evidence and was also desperate.
She had nowhere to turn with her grievances.
"Enough, stop arguing!" The team leader was getting a headache from all the noise.
He could only ask Bai Xiuxiu first: "Xiaobai, how do you want to handle this?"
How to handle it? Of course, she would report it.
Everything was happening exactly as she had planned!
With Zhou Jiaojiao's temper, she would definitely blame her third sister-in-law.
And Tian Xiaolan, when it came to choosing between her daughter and her daughter-in-law, the choice was clear.
What reason would she need? For a mother, nothing was more important than her children.
Xu Xiaojuan had children, so if Tian Xiaolan threatened her with the children, Xu Xiaojuan would have no choice but to comply.
However... once Xu Xiaojuan realized the huge price she had to pay, she would think these two were deceiving her. Such a massive deception would drive her to drag Zhou Jiaojiao down with her.
Of course, Xu Xiaojuan had no evidence. If she implicated Zhou Jiaojiao, Zhou Jiaojiao would certainly deny everything.
The Zhou family and the Wang family would vouch for her, saying she did nothing.
This isn't important. What matters is that Xu Xiaojuan must go in, and Zhou Jiaojiao must follow because of the accusation.
Even if they couldn't convict her, she would still suffer for a few days.
If they wanted Zhou Jiaojiao out early, they would have to stop her from persisting with this accusation.
Once the Wang family begged her, she could rightfully propose dividing the household.
If they refused, she would publicize the matter in the county.
The Zhou family and the Wang family valued their reputation.
Both families had workers, and they wouldn't want their jobs affected.
In addition to the 1,600 yuan on the books that belonged to her and Wang Qinghe, she would demand a substantial compensation.
Chapter 116
The Wang family now had no money left except for the money allocated for food distribution.
From now on, the Wang family could tighten their belts and pay her back.
As for Zhou Jiaojiao, she would make sure to send her to jail one day as well.
Everything was going according to plan, and Bai Xiuxiu felt great. Seeing that the team leader was still waiting for her decision, she sighed with a troubled and sad expression: "Captain, we should report this. This is no small matter. If they can push me into the water today, they can push someone else tomorrow.
I don't have any dealings with Third Aunt Zhou, so this was completely unexpected.
If we leave such a menace in our village, I'm worried about everyone's safety.
If this incident involves my sister-in-law from the fifth household, then I must report it. We're all family.
How can we be family if she's this vicious?"
Bai Xiuxiu leaned against Wang Qinghe, still shaken by what had happened.
Hearing this, others thought of their own families and also felt scared.
"Captain, I think the brother's wife is right. Who doesn't have a wife or children? I'm not at ease either; everyone comes to wash clothes by the river."
Someone in the crowd started to stir up trouble.
Soon, others joined in.
"What's going on? What happened?" Outside the crowd, the Wang family arrived.
Leading them were Wang Shoucheng and Zhao Guifen.
Seeing them, the anxious Tian Xiaolan finally found her savior and ran over crying: "Why did your family take so long to get here? You need to control your eldest daughter-in-law. Because of the incident where our third daughter-in-law pushed her into the water, she wants to send both our third daughter-in-law and Jiaojiao to the police station.
Isn't this trying to kill me?
Our families are in-laws, isn't your eldest daughter-in-law too heartless?"
"How can that be?" Zhao Guifen was the first to disagree, quickly pulling Zhou Jiaojiao up: "Jiaojiao, come home with Mom. Mom will handle this."
"After reporting, hiding anywhere is the same. It's better to let the team leader and I take them there," Wang Qinghe said coldly.
Zhou Jiaojiao became even more upset: "Big Brother... I know Big Sister-in-law is heartless, but why are you..."
"My wife is like me. However, I think my wife is quite kind; you misunderstood her." Wang Qinghe earnestly explained his wife's virtues to Zhou Jiaojiao, but his gaze was as cold and hard as meat on a chopping block.
"You two, this is our fifth son's wife!" Wang Shoucheng didn't expect things to escalate like this and shouted at Wang Qinghe, trying to make him listen.
"Captain, my wife and I need to go report this, right? Can we go home and change first?" Without looking at his parents, Wang Qinghe asked the captain how to proceed with the report.
This attitude left the team leader stunned.
Usually, family matters were the hardest to deal with and rarely escalated to reporting. A bit of crying and shouting, and things would blow over.
Initially, he thought the Wang family would handle it internally, but they were being so resolute.
However, this was better. The village was getting increasingly chaotic, and if this matter were handled lightly, it would only worsen.
Considering the consequences, the team leader supported Wang Qinghe even more: "Sure, go home and change first. As for Zhou Jiaojiao and Xu Xiaojuan, you two come with me to the team office."
"Everyone, get back to fishing. Don't delay the work." The team leader organized the villagers to continue their tasks.
Those involved went home or to the team office.
The Wang family lost interest in fishing.
Especially Wang Qingqi, who was far from the crowd, hoping to secretly catch some fish and hide them. After getting assigned a boat, he stayed far away.
He hadn't heard the commotion clearly until his family called him back.
Hearing about the incident, Wang Qingqi was stunned.
Was his wife's strange behavior these past few days all to harm his sister-in-law?
"Mum, where's my big brother?" Wang Qingqi realized his brother wasn't around.
"He already took Bai Xiuxiu back. Those ungrateful brats." Zhao Guifen didn't want to mention them.
"Mum, we can't ignore this. If Big Brother and Big Sister-in-law don't let my wife go, she'll suffer greatly. And if this gets out, what will happen to me?" Wang Qingqi was thoroughly panicked.
Deep down, he still cared for Zhou Jiaojiao.
Since marrying her, he had indeed been lucky.
His job was already secured.
If this incident cost him his job and his wife, he would lose everything.
"What can we do? How should I know? Let's go home first and see if we can stop them." Zhao Guifen was at a loss.
"Mum, why don't we tie her up and tell the team leader that she forgives the third daughter-in-law of the Zhou family? Then everything will be fine." Liu Xiaoe suggested hopefully.
She had long been displeased with her sister-in-law. If she could also help Zhou Jiaojiao with this matter, she was certain she would have a son.
"Second Brother, control your wife; don't let her come up with any more bad ideas." Wang Shoucheng was truly frightened; he couldn't believe she could think of such a terrible plan.
He knew his own son all too well.
Even if all his sons combined, they couldn't beat the eldest one-on-one.
If they failed to tie him up, they'd just add another charge of assault.
It would be nothing but trouble.
In the back, Zhao Cuihua, who had been silent all along, felt her head buzzing. She sensed that once the report was made, her sister-in-law would likely demand a separation from the family!
She might even take a considerable amount of money with her.
Up front, Wang Qinghe carried his wife and led their two children back home.
Upon arriving, Bai Xiuxiu quickly changed into clean clothes and put on a new pair of shoes.
The couple then took their two children to the brigade office, ready to accompany the brigade leader to make the report.
When the Wang family returned, everyone had already left.
"In-laws!"
Not long after the Wangs left, Tian Xiaolan pulled her husband along to visit.
As soon as Old Zhou entered the courtyard, he knelt down before Wang Shoucheng and Zhao Guifen: "In-laws, you must save my daughter. My daughter-in-law is bringing this upon herself, but my daughter is a good girl. She's being wrongfully accused.
If your eldest daughter-in-law has any demands, please ask her.
My daughter cannot be harmed.
Moreover... if anything happens to her, it won't look good for your Little Wu either.
Both our families care about our reputation; you can't abandon her."
Old Zhou shed tears of anguish.
Tian Xiaolan also knelt down before them.
Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe went to make the report and didn't return until dusk.
When they came back with their children, the Wang family courtyard was bustling with activity.
The Zhou family and the Wang family were both waiting for them.
Chapter 117
Seeing Wang Qinghe's family of four return, Zhao Guifen felt a jolt in her heart.
This is bad. Isn't this exactly the worst-case scenario they had speculated about?
"Xiuxiu, where's our Jiaojiao? Why didn't she come back with you? She was misunderstood, didn't you clarify it for her? You're all one family; how could she have any ill intentions?" Tian Xiaolan, seeing her daughter hadn't returned, anxiously tried to explain to Bai Xiuxiu.
"That's right. Whatever the issue, we can talk it out among ourselves." Zhao Guifen quickly chimed in, following the plan she and the Old Zhou family had discussed beforehand.
Both the Old Wang and Old Zhou families couldn't afford to lose face, especially since Zhou Jiaojiao was a blessing to both families.
The Wang family still hoped Zhou Jiaojiao would bring good luck to their household, not to mention her ongoing black market business.
Bai Xiuxiu looked at the entire Wang family and noticed that almost everyone from the Zhou family except the eldest two branches had gathered.
Her lips curled upward. "Talk it out? Let's do just that. We also have something to say."
"Let's go inside so no one sees us making a spectacle." Tian Xiaolan pointed at the neighbors, hoping to avoid further embarrassment by keeping the conversation private.
Once everyone was inside, Wang Qinghe and Bai Xiuxiu sent their children back to their rooms and locked the door before heading to the main room.
Even Chen Fang, who had trouble walking, came over to join the commotion.
Today's drama was particularly shocking to her.
Who would have thought that the wife of Old Fifth could be so ruthless?
As the two families entered the house, Tian Xiaolan anxiously asked Bai Xiuxiu, "Xiuxiu, how is Jiaojiao now? When will she be back?"
"When she'll be back depends on you." Bai Xiuxiu surveyed the crowded room.
"What do you mean by that?" Wang Shoucheng sensed something was amiss. His eldest daughter-in-law wasn't someone to be trifled with.
"The wife of Old Fifth secretly wished me dead. I can't live under the same roof with her anymore. Qinghe and I want to separate from the family." Bai Xiuxiu stated bluntly.
"What? Separate?!"
Zhao Guifen was shocked. The eldest son and his wife actually wanted to separate?
They were planning to divide the money!
That couldn't happen!
"Separating is fine, but if you want to leave, you won't get any money. Your mother and I are still alive, and it's not time for separation yet. Anyone who wants to leave can't take any family money."
Wang Shoucheng preemptively struck.
He secretly worried that things were going badly.
"Mom and Dad, you said you wanted to talk, but I see no sincerity here. It seems there's no point in continuing this discussion. If you don't want to separate, and you won't deal with the wife of Old Fifth, then let's end this early!"
Bai Xiuxiu didn't mince words, looking at the anxious Zhou family members.
She glanced at the Wang couple, who looked like miserly old folks, and calmly added, "If we can't separate, I'll live in constant fear. If I can't live peacefully, neither can you.
If we can't separate, Qinghe and I will go to the factories of the second and fifth branches and Zhou Jiaojiao's brothers' factories to cause a scene.
There are plenty of people who want to work there. Before anything happens, your factories will be disrupted.
With such family members..."
Bai Xiuxiu's words drove both families into a frenzy.
"You dare?" Zhao Guifen was the first to explode in anger.
"If you won't let me live peacefully, what else do I have to fear?" Bai Xiuxiu wasn't intimidated by her aggressive demeanor, knowing Wang Qinghe wouldn't let her suffer.
"You, as a daughter-in-law, should listen to your in-laws and help take care of the family. I've never seen anyone like you.
Ever since you married into this family..."
Zhao Guifen started recounting past grievances, venting all her frustrations with Bai Xiuxiu.
"Mom, I married Xiuxiu not to serve you." Wang Qinghe couldn't stand Zhao Guifen's endless complaints.
Xiuxiu has never been wrong. If this family wants anything from him, they should ask him directly; Xiuxiu doesn't owe them anything!
Zhao Guifen realized that her eldest son had become completely unmanageable recently.
It seemed to start when his wife stopped being indifferent to the family!
These two used to be one who ignored everything and the other who only worked.
But after Bai Xiuxiu fainted in the field, everything changed, nearly turning the whole family upside down.
"Qinghe, although I'm an outsider, your mother is right. Which son and daughter-in-law don't listen to their parents? Separating or causing chaos without separating is too much."
Tian Xiaolan tried to mediate.
If these two don't listen to the Old Wang family, this situation will be difficult to resolve!
"I am that unreasonable person. You can refuse." Wang Qinghe was even more stubborn than Bai Xiuxiu.
Leaving Tian Xiaolan speechless.
Zhou Lao looked at this situation and felt that only the Wang family could make the decision now.
So he pushed the matter to Wang Shoucheng: "Old Wang, this is your family affair. Our Jiaojiao is also your daughter-in-law, so you should be the ones to decide."
Decide?
How to decide?
Wang Shoucheng wanted to ask his in-laws, but unfortunately, he had some dignity.
"Fine, if you want to split the household, let's split it. Tell me how you want to do it." At this point, he had no choice but to agree.
"We previously had about one thousand one hundred in our account. Now, with the money from dividing the grain, we should have around one thousand seven hundred, right? We want three hundred of that—doesn't seem unreasonable, does it?" Bai Xiuxiu asked them.
"How can that be? You're trying to take our lives!" Zhao Guifen thought the eldest son and his wife were out of their minds.
How dare they even think of such a thing?
"Three hundred is too much, Big Sister! You're asking for the moon!" Wang Laoer couldn't sit still upon hearing that his elder brother and sister-in-law wanted three hundred yuan.
If others took the money, there would be less for him to get in the future.
In this family, the third and fourth siblings were no good, so their parents would definitely support him and Old Fifth.
Rounding it up, this money was practically his!
"Hold on, I'm not done yet. Besides the three hundred yuan, each of your families must compensate us with another three hundred yuan as emotional distress fees.
Today, I almost got killed, and Xu Xiaojuan said it was Zhou Jiaojiao who instructed her. I have no grudge against Xu Xiaojuan, so if she suddenly tried to push me into the water, I don't believe she wasn't acting on Zhou Jiaojiao's orders.
Even though Xu Xiaojuan has no evidence, if I insist on this and continue investigating Zhou Jiaojiao, I don't believe we won't find anything.
Even if we don't, bringing it up at the factory will affect your precious sons' jobs."
Bai Xiuxiu looked at both families and calmly laid out the consequences.
Chapter 118
Both families erupted in outrage.
"You, how could you be so vicious? You want to harm my son for no reason. It was Xu Xiaojuan who pushed you into the water, not my son. Besides, didn't you say you didn't fall in? And now you want three hundred? Why should we pay that?" Tian Xiaolan could no longer contain her anger.
"It was your daughter-in-law who tried to push Xiuxiu into the water, and it was your daughter who came up with the idea. Now you're saying we're vicious? Three hundred is indeed too little; let's make it five hundred."
Wang Qinghe pulled his wife closer, feeling the hostile glares from everyone around him.
"She didn't die, did she? She's fine, yet she wants to cause trouble for everyone? Five hundred dollars—does her life really warrant that much?" Tian Xiaolan was completely overwhelmed, thinking about her daughter suffering, her son's job possibly being affected, and her daughter-in-law being taken away.
And now these two people wanted five hundred dollars from her family!
She felt like confronting Bai Xiuxiu head-on.
"Father-in-law, you decide on this matter." Zhou Laotou saw his wife getting so agitated and quickly passed the responsibility to Wang Shoucheng.
Wang Shoucheng felt a headache coming on.
Why was he always the one making decisions? Can't these people decide for themselves?
What could he do?
There was no money in the household. Forget five hundred dollars; even two hundred was too much!
But if they didn't pay, Zhou Jiaojiao wouldn't come back, and the eldest son's wife might ruin the jobs of the second and fifth sons. That would be the end of their family!
They had to agree to any amount now!
Since everyone was leaving the decision to him, he would take charge.
The money lost by the Wang family would eventually be earned back by Zhou Jiaojiao.
Zhou Jiaojiao had been helping the family earn quite a bit of money lately.
Once the eldest couple moved out, the remaining family members would be all close-knit, and whatever they earned would stay within the family!
Wang Shoucheng decided to trust in the good luck of the fifth son's wife.
"Fine! We'll give you the money, but you can't pursue this further. When Jiaojiao comes back, you mustn't mention this again." Wang Shoucheng made his demand.
Bai Xiuxiu immediately rejected his proposal: "Hold on, I haven't finished yet. If you want me to drop this entirely, there's an additional price."
"What else do you want?" Zhao Guifen was stunned by the demands.
How much more could there be?
Bai Xiuxiu threw a ledger in front of them, detailing all the work Wang Qinghe had done for the family since childhood, the total expenses incurred by the family, and the benefits he brought to the household.
"Let's settle this account. Over the years, how much have you unfairly taken from my husband?
We've calculated it to be three thousand five hundred dollars.
We'll round it down.
This three thousand five, plus three hundred for the division of property, plus five hundred each from both families as compensation, totals four thousand eight hundred dollars.
If you agree, we can talk reasonably.
If not, I'll stick to my previous statement.
I won't let you have peace."
Bai Xiuxiu's ledger left the Wang family dumbfounded.
"You... He's our son!" Wang Shoucheng's hands shook as he held the ledger.
Wang Qinghe scrutinized him, his tone still unreadable: "Am I really your son? If so, why don't I look like either of you? Where were you when I was born?
I think it's necessary..."
"Enough! What are you trying to say? Your mother risked her life to give birth to you. How can you say such hurtful things?" Wang Shoucheng panicked.
He should have strangled him at birth!
"So, why don't I look like either of you?" Bai Xiuxiu pressed on, seeing Wang Shoucheng's panic.
"Both of you shut up! Isn't it just about dividing the property? Fine, divide it! Consider us without a son in the Wang family." Wang Shoucheng dared not continue the conversation.
"Dad, are you crazy? Where will we get four thousand eight? Oh, wait, where will we get four thousand three?" Wang Qingfu was equally shocked. Such a large sum was beyond his means, even if he worked in the factory until he died.
"Dad, I won't agree to this. With so much money, we might as well stop the second brother and Old Fifth from working. Old Fifth can find another wife. I refuse." Wang Laosan also voiced his opposition.
Four thousand three? He had never seen so much money in his life!
How much did their family earn in a year?
"Dad, I agree with Third Brother!" Wang Laosi hurriedly refused, fearing it might be too late.
They were merely anxious, while the Zhou family was utterly shocked. The Wangs seemed to lack common sense.
If they could calculate such a large sum, the Wang couple must have received that much money. But why wasn't it reflected in their accounts?
Wang Shoucheng was already worried, and his sons' agitated reactions only added to his distress.
These unlucky things, why doesn't anyone understand him?
Of course, he doesn't have that money.
But Zhou Jiaojiao can earn money for the family in the future. He's heard that those who do business in the black market can make this much in one or two years.
Not to mention that Zhou Jiaojiao might even find ginseng.
And Old Second and Old Fifth's jobs—that's what brings prestige to this family!
Hundreds of yuan a year! And these jobs can be passed down to their sons in the future.
That's the real benefit!
If Zhou Jiaojiao doesn't come back, and if the eldest and his wife cause trouble a few more times, even if they were originally right, the factory won't be able to trust them anymore.
Wang Shoucheng had calculated all this in his mind and knew there was no room for compromise.
If anything, it's all because of Old Fifth's wife causing trouble!
In the future, the family could use this matter to control Old Fifth's wife.
Wang Shoucheng quickly found the best outcome for the Wang family in this situation.
"Four thousand three hundred it is, but we don't have that much money right now. How about ten years to pay it off?" Wang Shoucheng had a flash of inspiration and thought this was the best solution.
"The money on the ledger must be repaid within two years. No matter what methods you use, you must repay it within two years." Wang Qinghe forcefully pulled the ledger back.
Xiuxiu had said on the way back that they definitely didn't have that much money, so they should repay it within two years.
It cannot exceed two years.
Although he didn't know why, as long as Xiuxiu said it, he would follow through.
Bai Xiuxiu figured that in two years, the situation would be different.
Money must be in her own hands to feel secure.
This ledger is evidence of what they owe her and Wang Qinghe.
"As for the compensation money and the money from the division of the family, we want it now." Bai Xiuxiu continued with her husband's demands.
"No way, where would we get so much money!" Zhao Guifen refused; she and the old man didn't have eight hundred yuan now.
"Aren't there funds at home? Or did you use the money elsewhere?" Bai Xiuxiu looked at the elderly couple, exposing what they were trying to hide.
Chapter 119
"Stop thinking about our money. Is it yours?" Zhao Guifen was so agitated that she wanted to curse. The matter of the money and the eldest son's situation were things that couldn't be known by others!
Why didn't the eldest daughter-in-law drown in the water today?
That old Zhou family's daughter-in-law is also an idiot. She can't even harm someone properly and ended up involving the whole family.
And Zhou Jiaojiao, why couldn't she discuss this with her and the old man?
If the whole family had worked together, wouldn't it have been more reliable than letting her handle it alone?
If Bai Xiuxiu had died, life would have been so much easier for everyone.
Zhao Guifen felt both regret and frustration.
"You owe us, so of course I'll think about it. It's getting late, and we've been tired all day. Whatever decision you make, do it quickly. Tomorrow, the price won't be the same."
Bai Xiuxiu urged them to decide quickly.
Zhao Guifen couldn't make up her mind; such a big matter was beyond her control.
If it were up to her, she wouldn't give a single penny. At worst, they could just get a new daughter-in-law. No matter how much money Old Fifth's wife made, it wasn't as good as having cash in hand.
Wang Shoucheng saw his wife yelling without any effect and cursed her as useless in his heart.
Then he took charge: "We'll do it your way. Three hundred for the division, five hundred for compensation, making a total of eight hundred. The rest will be paid off over two years."
Who knows what will happen in two years? They might not even need to repay the money then.
"Just saying it isn't enough. When we go to the team leader, let him witness the division, so you don't renege later." Bai Xiuxiu continued to make demands, knowing the Wang family was not trustworthy.
This matter must be settled firmly.
Wang Shoucheng genuinely found his eldest daughter-in-law annoying!
A woman should take care of her children instead of meddling in family affairs.
Seeing the unpleasant expressions on both families' faces, Bai Xiuxiu continued, "In the future, the second son and Old Fifth will work at the commune. Each of them will give us twenty yuan per month. In the village, you must also give me sixty yuan each month.
One hundred yuan per month, to pay off what you owe us in two years.
The Wang family has the means, and everyone knows it."
"Why should we? Dad, this absolutely cannot happen. We can accept the division money for the eldest brother and sister-in-law, but the compensation for losses? We won't pay that. If anyone should pay, it should be you and Old Fifth, since it was his wife who caused the trouble.
Also, my salary is absolutely not going to help you pay off any debt.
My eldest brother has been working for you, not for me."
Wang Qingfu broke down when he heard that his salary would be used too.
Wang Shoucheng was already annoyed, and seeing his son disregard his own brother infuriated him further, causing him to sneer coldly: "Fine, let them cause trouble. Then you won't need to work at the commune, and the money you spent will be wasted.
At worst, we'll get Old Fifth another wife.
You all can continue farming at home."
Wang Qingfu immediately fell silent.
Two years of hard work versus a lifetime of job security—he knew which one to choose.
Moreover, if he had a son in the future, he could pass the job on to him.
Missing this opportunity now meant missing out on a good job for three hundred yuan for many years to come.
"Eldest son, take your wife back first. I'll bring the money over later, and we'll go to the team leader for the official record." Wang Shoucheng's tone was unfriendly. He needed to get rid of the eldest son and daughter-in-law before they changed their minds or came up with new demands.
"Okay, Dad, please hurry. The team leader is waiting at the team office, and it's not good to keep him waiting."
Bai Xiuxiu reminded them and left with Wang Qinghe.
Compared to dealing with this family, she preferred being with her children.
Moreover, staying here any longer would only tighten their nerves, which wouldn't benefit her and Wang Qinghe's plan.
The money they asked for was almost the limit of what the Wang family could bear.
Any more, and they might just give up entirely.
In her previous life, the Wang family had done plenty of unsavory things, and she had plenty of ways to keep them in check in the future.
No need to rush now.
As the two left, Tian Xiaolan, who had been silent for a long time, spoke softly again: "In-laws, weren't you a bit impulsive? How could you agree to give her five hundred yuan from our family? Where are we supposed to get that much money?
Just the other day, we helped Jiaojiao and Qingqi with some money. Now you want us to give five hundred? This is pushing us to the brink!"
"This money is to save your daughter and secure your son's job. This isn't our own family's issue. Are you trying to make us bear the burden?
Old Zhou, it was you who told me to decide. So it is decided.
I'm putting it bluntly: don't say I didn't warn you.
My eldest daughter-in-law is so ruthless that even wolves would avoid her. She's lazy and unreasonable. If you don't pay, and she goes to your son's workplace to cause trouble, don't come to me. I'm preparing to divide the family, and this mess is for whoever wants to deal with it."
Wang Shoucheng spoke in a sarcastic tone.
If this were any other time, he might still have put on a good face despite the mother-in-law's attitude. But now?
His own family was struggling to keep their heads above water. How could they take care of others?
"Old Zhou, this daughter is yours, and the troublesome daughter-in-law is also yours. I just promised those two ungrateful wolves five hundred each, but we certainly don't plan to pay that money. We have two workers, and you have two workers as well.
But in fact, our family is also a victim here.
The total compensation of one thousand for emotional distress should be paid by your family."
Wang Shoucheng, seeing the two people clearly trying to push all the responsibility onto him, immediately turned the tables.
"What do you mean? Mother-in-law, aren't you being unreasonable? Although the daughter and daughter-in-law are from our family, my daughter is also your family's daughter-in-law." Tian Xiaolan felt wronged.
Zhao Guifen was shocked by her own husband.
He's the one!
Just now, she was wondering how to scrape together two hundred to fill the gap.
Now, it's all settled.
Of course, this money should be paid by Old Zhou's family!
They raised such a wonderful daughter!
Zhao Guifen suddenly saw the light and immediately switched gears, starting to blame the in-laws: "Bah! What do you mean by our daughter-in-law? If you don't pay this money, we don't want this daughter-in-law either. Ever since Old Fifth's wife came into our house, look at all the trouble she has caused. The captain even made her give a public apology yesterday.
She has brought shame upon us!
Our son is a worker now; he can find any kind of wife he wants.
Your daughter? Look at her reputation now.
Wake up!
In any case, you must pay this money."
Chapter 120
"You... in-laws, I know. My daughter is ours, and my daughter-in-law is also ours. However, my daughter-in-law has always been honest and well-behaved at home. Before my daughter married into your family, she was also obedient and gentle, not even daring to kill a rabbit, let alone do something like this.
My daughter-in-law has no grudge against your family. If there is a problem, it's your family's issue.
As for the money, we'd like to pay, but we don't have it."
Old Zhou was so angered by the Wang family that he no longer spoke sparingly.
He was eager to distance himself from the matter.
Wang Shoucheng didn't care: "Fine, then let it be. You can wait for them to cause trouble."
"Are you being unreasonable?" Tian Xiaolan raged helplessly, thinking that the Wang family would resolve the issue, only to find they were turning their backs on them.
Moreover, the most critical thing was that she could lose her daughter-in-law, but she couldn't afford to lose her daughter and two sons' jobs.
"In-laws, are you planning to cut ties with us?" Old Zhou now seemed like a venomous snake ready to strike at the Wang family.
"If your family doesn't want to maintain relations, then consider us no longer related." Wang Shoucheng didn't care either.
If he didn't offend the Zhou family now, his own family wouldn't be able to live peacefully.
Once his sons found out the money was gone, they would all leave him.
How would he and his wife survive?
This was a huge matter; he couldn't back down.
The Zhou family members who came along dared not speak up, leaving the decision to the two elders.
Tian Xiaolan was at a loss.
Finally, after deliberation, Old Zhou agreed angrily: "Fine, old woman, go get the money."
"Really give it?" Tian Xiaolan was about to cry from heartache.
This money had been hidden away by her and Old Zhou.
With the family still living together and their two sons working as laborers, they had saved for years to accumulate this amount.
Taking it all out now would leave their home empty.
"Give it." Old Zhou didn't want to hear any more about it.
After Tian Xiaolan left, Old Zhou changed his demeanor and spoke amiably to Wang Shoucheng: "We admit defeat. But in-laws, your eldest daughter-in-law and eldest son aren't really on your side.
Have you decided how to divide the house and support yourself in old age?"
The house?
Wang Shoucheng felt like he had been struck by lightning.
Right, the house! Those two nuisances would still get a share of it!
Support in old age?
He wanted a hundred yuan a month!
But would those two give it?
"In-laws, it seems we've lost this time. But let's be open about it. If there's a way to get the money back from them, our share shouldn't be forgotten." Old Zhou thought the Wang family wouldn't easily give away all their money.
The family treated their eldest son as if he were adopted, which was well-known throughout the village.
Wang Shoucheng had considered sending someone to steal the money back.
But now he thought the best approach was to take the eldest couple's children.
For the sake of the children, they would pay any amount.
They just needed a good plan.
Hearing these two old men's conversation, everyone else was shocked.
These two were actually plotting to get the money back?
Zhao Cuihua, standing beside her husband, had eaten enough gossip.
As for getting the money back? Zhao Cuihua doubted it.
Her brother and sister-in-law weren't fools; they wouldn't leave the money unsecured. Moreover, given how much they despised the family, they would likely move away soon.
Thinking about this, Zhao Cuihua felt both envious and distressed.
Envious of Bai Xiuxiu's future good life, and distressed over the family's lost money.
Although the compensation fell on the Zhou family, they still had two years of debt!
She hoped Zhou Jiaojiao would be as lucky as before when she returned, so they could overcome this difficulty.
As for dividing the family, it wasn't necessary.
Dividing the family would give her and her husband at most three hundred yuan, but staying together would yield more benefits.
The only drawback was having to continue living with such a large family.
In the west room.
Bai Xiuxiu felt much more relaxed after returning with Wang Qinghe.
She kissed each of the two children playing cat's cradle.
Now that they had successfully separated from the family, she and Wang Qinghe could raise their children happily. Life would be delightful from now on.
Seeing his wife's joy, Wang Qinghe smiled too, but instead of staying with her, he went to light the stove.
Today's separation was definite; he and Xiuxiu wouldn't return to the main house for dinner. They needed to light the stove first so it would be ready when they were ready to eat later.
"Qinghe, we need to hurry up about buying a house. This time, we've drained all the money from the Wang family; they won't stay quiet."
Bai Xiuxiu sat up, looking serious.
Wang Qinghe agreed, glancing at his wife and children before pondering, "If Xiao Zhang doesn't contact me tomorrow, I'll reach out to him."
They didn't have to wait long before Wang Shoucheng knocked on their door: "I have the money; let me in."
Wang Qinghe blocked the doorway: "Dad, you should go to the main house first. We haven't finished discussing the separation yet."
There was no food or cellar in this room, and if Wang Shoucheng saw it empty, he would definitely become suspicious.
"Alright, hurry up then." Wang Shoucheng didn't think much of it, suspecting only that the couple might be sneaking some good food inside.
He turned and left.
The couple relocked the door and headed to the main house.
In the main house, the Wang family seemed fine, but the Zhou family, who had been watching the drama unfold, now looked uneasy.
Observing the situation, Bai Xiuxiu made some guesses, but it wasn't her concern.
"Here is a total of 1,300 yuan. One thousand is from us and the Zhou family as compensation, and the remaining 300 is your share from the separation," said Wang Shoucheng listlessly.
Wang Qinghe took the money and handed it to his wife.
Sitting beside him, Bai Xiuxiu counted the money while Wang Qinghe brought up the topic of the house: "Dad, when Xiuxiu and I got married, you refused to give us a room. It was only after I promised to expand the rooms for the second and third brothers that you gave us this one.
This house should belong to us, right?"
Wang Shoucheng, head bowed, was nearly at his wit's end!
"Yes, the house is yours."
"As for the pots, bowls, and utensils, Xiuxiu and I don't want them. But we should get the equivalent value in money for our share. How much is it?"
Wang Qinghe sensed something was amiss with the family's easy agreement.
"How come the money didn't bury you alive?" Zhao Guifen couldn't believe it—could the pots and bowls even amount to five yuan? And he wanted every last bit?
"If you agree, let's go to the commune office," Wang Qinghe ignored Zhao Guifen's remark and looked at Wang Shoucheng.