Chapter 141
The eldest sister was wearing a blue cotton jacket, her hair braided into two pigtails, and she kept looking at Bai Xiuxiu's face.
Bai Xiuxiu smiled at her and greeted her warmly. "Yes, we just moved in today. My surname is Bai, and my husband's surname is Wang. How should I address you, Sister?"
"I? I'm the second daughter-in-law of the Lin family next door. My name is Ning Meimei. You can call me Sister Ning. Let me tell you, a few days ago, my mother-in-law's relative also came to see this house. The old lady in this courtyard chased them away.
My mother-in-law went home and ranted for two days.
I've been curious about who bought the house."
Ning Meimei sized up Bai Xiuxiu, thinking that regardless of anything else, this young wife was truly beautiful.
Inside the house, Wang Qinghe finished putting things away and came out.
Seeing him, Ning Meimei's eyes nearly popped out.
How could this man be so handsome too?
"Xiuxiu, it's chilly out here. Go inside. I'll bring the ox cart into the courtyard," Wang Qinghe said, his heart aching at the sight of his wife's cheeks flushed from the cold, wanting her to get indoors.
"No need. The ox cart will be returned soon. It's troublesome to bring it into the courtyard. Let's hurry and move everything; there isn't much anyway. Mingming, Yueyue, you two go with your father first." Bai Xiuxiu handed the children over to him.
Wang Qinghe saw that she didn't want to go inside, so he carried more on one trip.
He had several bags slung over his shoulder.
How could he have such great strength?
"Is this your husband?" Ning Meimei asked after they went inside.
Bai Xiuxiu nodded. "Yes."
"You two are really good-looking. Now I understand why Old Lady Seventh Aunt sold the house to you. She likes good-looking people." Ning Meimei sighed.
"The second daughter-in-law, Mother wants you to go back and cook. It's your turn to cook today. Don't delay our menfolk's lunch." A woman around Ning Meimei's age with a stern expression came out from the neighboring courtyard.
She looked exhausted, and her gaze was critical when she looked at anyone, her yellowed hair cut short.
When she saw Bai Xiuxiu with Ning Meimei, she became even more critical.
Her eyes showed a bit of disdain: "Don't chat with everyone all day long. Hurry back. I won't help you work. With this time, I'd rather make clothes for my son."
After saying this, she went back into the courtyard.
"Sorry, my sister-in-law is a bit rigid. Anyway, I'll go back now. I'll visit you another day." Ning Meimei hurried back to her courtyard.
In just a few minutes, Bai Xiuxiu formed a general impression of the two daughters-in-law in the neighboring courtyard.
Ning Meimei was a cheerful and talkative person, while her sister-in-law seemed hard to get along with.
Wang Qinghe quickly moved everything into the house.
As soon as he finished, the two young men who were helping them move furniture arrived with another ox cart.
"Brother Wang, Sister-in-law, let us help you move everything in. We'll also drive an ox cart for you later." The two young men worked under Xiao Zhang and had been instructed by him to do everything proactively.
With their help, everything was moved in quickly.
"Xiuxiu, we'll return the ox cart to the village." Wang Qinghe looked worriedly at Bai Xiuxiu.
"Hurry up and go. I'm not a child; I won't be afraid to be alone. When you come back, let's go to the state-owned restaurant for a meal." Bai Xiuxiu knew he was worried about her being alone at home.
"I'll go then. Wait for me to finish the chores at home. Rest a bit." Wang Qinghe left reluctantly after repeated reminders.
Once they left, Bai Xiuxiu started organizing the small items in the house.
The rooms weren't dirty. Bai Xiuxiu took the children to the east room.
In the east room, her and Wang Qinghe's cabinets were already placed on the east side of the kang bed, wrapped tightly and not yet unpacked.
The table was placed in the corner furthest inside the room. Bai Xiuxiu took out cups and other breakable items from the space, carefully washed them, and placed them on the table.
"Mama, are we going to live here?" Yueyue grabbed Bai Xiuxiu's clothes, her big eyes full of curiosity about the house.
Bai Xiuxiu melted at her daughter's gaze, picked her up, kissed her a few times, and then let her go, her good mood spreading from moving in: "Yes, this whole house and courtyard are ours now.
This is Mama and Papa's room. Mama will show you your room later."
"Okay." Yueyue looked expectant.
Mingming also tugged at Bai Xiuxiu's clothes. Bai Xiuxiu looked at her son, puzzled, and picked him up too: "Mingming, what's wrong?"
"Mama, can we play in the courtyard now?" His face was full of longing; recently, Mama hadn't allowed them to play in the courtyard back home.
Bai Xiuxiu felt even more heartache for her two treasures.
"Yes, as long as you don't go out with strangers, this is our own home. You can play freely in the courtyard."
With Bai Xiuxiu's permission, the two children ran outside immediately.
Bai Xiuxiu closed the front gate quickly; they had just moved in, and she didn't want the children to run off.
Without the children in the room, Bai Xiuxiu found it easier to organize the small items.
When Wang Qinghe returned, Bai Xiuxiu had almost finished organizing everything in the house.
Seeing his wife still busy, he quickly took over the work: "Didn't we agree that I would do it when I got back? You've been working hard these past few days and must be exhausted."
Wang Qinghe was heartbroken.
Exhausted? Bai Xiuxiu thought about the past few days but couldn't figure out what heavy work she had done.
But why didn't the two young men who helped us come along?
"Where are the two young men Xiao Zhang found for us? We should at least treat them to dinner for their help." Bai Xiuxiu asked in confusion.
"Xiao Zhang called them away, saying there was an emergency. So I asked Xiao Zhang to give them two red envelopes. They would feel more comfortable accepting from Xiao Zhang rather than from us, worrying if Xiao Zhang would approve.
Xiao Zhang will come over later tonight." Wang Qinghe pulled Bai Xiuxiu to sit down.
He wouldn't let her help with the work.
Bai Xiuxiu felt relieved and watched her husband busily working, a smile curling her lips. "What are we having for dinner tonight? I just checked the stove, and everything is fine."
"What do you want to eat? I'll cook it." Wang Qinghe glanced at his wife, feeling that his dream seemed to have come true.
Having their own house, a job to support her, and having her and their child by his side.
In the future, he would go out to work while she waited for him at home.
All he needed to do now was help Xiuxiu hide the bracelet matter and deal with any potential issues from the provincial city.
Then he could live happily ever after with Xiuxiu.
Chapter 142
Bai Xiuxiu's bracelet and the provincial family that sounded like they were involved in some conspiracy made Wang Qinghe anxious. He had to hide the bracelet before those people found her.
Those people were well-informed; what if there were others with such treasures besides Bai Xiuxiu?
Such things would tempt anyone who knew about them.
"Eat red-braised pork." Bai Xiuxiu looked at Wang Qinghe, who was deep in thought, and suddenly spoke.
Wang Qinghe lifted his head and gave her a gentle smile. "Alright, I'll listen to you. By the way, I asked Xiao Zhang about the bicycle ticket, and he said it would be ready in a couple of days."
This was important business, and Bai Xiuxiu immediately perked up. "That's great! Otherwise, getting back would be quite troublesome."
"Once we have the bicycles, our trips will be much easier. Recently, I've been learning traditional Chinese medicine from Uncle Zhang and have picked up quite a bit. Xiuxiu, I'll gradually sell off the astragalus, but we can't plant it anymore.
If we keep planting it, the quantity will be too large. If too much wild astragalus suddenly appears, it will raise suspicions.
I'll find new seeds for you."
Wang Qinghe explained his plan bit by bit to Bai Xiuxiu.
Bai Xiuxiu felt a sense of comfort looking into her husband's eyes filled with gentle care.
"Xiuxiu, once I learn more, Uncle Zhang will recommend me to others he knows. I'll grow in this field as quickly as possible. Selling too many herbs individually will raise suspicions. Traditional Chinese medicine allows us to dispense and prepare various tonics.
Don't rush, just wait a bit longer."
Wang Qinghe patiently explained the pros and cons to his wife.
Xiuxiu was smart, but no one could remain calm in the face of such significant benefits.
Even if it was risky.
Seeing her husband worried she might impulsively sell all the herbs and draw suspicion, Bai Xiuxiu's expression softened even more. She listened to him explain the risks and then said, "Qinghe, usually, you listen to me, but on this matter, I'll listen to you.
Didn't we make an agreement?
I won't break my promise to you, don't worry."
Wang Qinghe stared at his wife in amazement. He swore that although Xiuxiu was beautiful every day, she was the most beautiful today.
She truly trusted him.
Wang Qinghe never knew how captivating it felt to be trusted by someone he loved.
"You're staring at me, and it's not even dark yet. The house isn't fully organized, and dinner isn't prepared yet. No more staring," Bai Xiuxiu said, already starting to inventory their valuables and putting money and jewelry into her space.
Wang Qinghe stored the food in a large cabinet to the left of the entrance and locked it securely.
The kitchen was right at the entrance, which was convenient but allowed smoke to fill the house.
In their previous small house, they had no choice, but now it was better to move the cooking outside.
The two children were playing happily in the courtyard. Inside, Wang Qinghe prepared dinner, keeping an eye on the children's movements, ensuring nothing went wrong.
In the east room, Bai Xiuxiu finished arranging everything and then went to the children's room.
Xiao Zhang had efficiently set up a partition on the bed in the west room for the children. Their clothes cabinets were placed in the corner, and a small table was also against the wall.
Looking at the corner, Bai Xiuxiu decided they needed a small table for the children.
After organizing the children's belongings, it started to get dark.
Outside, someone knocked on the door.
"Brother Wang, are you home? It's me, Xiao Zhang. I came to celebrate your new house," Xiao Zhang's voice rang out from outside.
Wang Qinghe went out to open the door. At the door, Xiao Zhang brought two people with him.
One was the old man who had given his job to Wang Qinghe. He was a senior craftsman at the factory and had only one son, who died last year along with his daughter-in-law, leaving behind a three-year-old grandson.
He was of retirement age and had no one to take over his position.
The only ones who could take over were his relatives, who initially promised to support him and raise his grandson, allowing him to go to school.
However, they all wanted something for nothing, hoping to take over his house without spending a penny.
Feeling disheartened, the old man faced pressure from the factory to choose a successor.
It was then that Wang Qinghe appeared.
Three hundred yuan for the job was indeed a bargain, but Xiao Zhang had promised to take care of them.
Life was hard for the old man and his grandson, and if the relatives didn't give them a chance, they wouldn't survive.
While he could manage while alive, what would happen after he died?
Xiao Zhang was a distant relative, and knowing his character, he would keep his promise to help.
Today, he came along to share his years of experience with the young man.
For this, he brought his notebooks and a list of names and relationships within the factory.
All of this was for his poor little grandson.
The other person was around thirty years old. He wore the most fashionable coat of late and had a clean, well-groomed appearance, clearly someone who had never endured hardship.
Xiao Zhang stood in front of them, holding a basket of eggs.
As soon as he came in and saw Wang Qinghe, he smiled and said, "Brother Qinghe, I'm not late, am I?"
"No, come in and sit down."
Wang Qinghe led them into the house and skillfully added seasonings to the dishes.
Xiao Wang was surprised by this.
Xiao Zhang remembered how adept Brother Qinghe had been when buying supplies at the cooperative before. He joked that Brother Qinghe must actually cook at home.
Brother Qinghe admitted it.
Xiao Zhang thought Brother Qinghe was quite humorous.
But then, he realized Brother Qinghe was serious?
Bai Xiuxiu also came out of the room at this moment, seeing Xiao Zhang with two strangers. She felt puzzled but didn't say anything.
"Brother Yu, let me introduce you. This is my Brother Qinghe, my savior. And this is his wife, my sister-in-law," Xiao Zhang introduced the two people in the room to the tall man beside him.
Wang Qinghe glanced at the man surnamed Yu. Xiao Zhang had mentioned him before, but he hadn't expected him to show up tonight!
This person was from the provincial capital and had come here for a visit.
He was avoiding someone from his family and had come along with Xiao Zhang's brother's friend from the provincial capital who was looking for someone.
Since they were both from the provincial capital and their families knew each other, Xiao Zhang's brother had entrusted him to take care of this person.
So, the responsibility fell on Xiao Zhang.
Xiao Zhang couldn't shake him off and was quite annoyed, mentioning it to him.
After hearing this, Wang Qinghe decided to see what kind of person he was.
He wanted to gather information about the provincial capital without arousing suspicion, and the best way seemed to be through this acquaintance.
Chapter 143
The man surnamed Yu looked at Wang Qinghe and then at Bai Xiuxiu. He nodded towards them with a rather sunny smile.
This was his way of greeting them.
Xiao Zhang's face darkened slightly as he silently repeated to himself, "Don't get angry, absolutely don't get angry!"
He had heard that this person was a troublemaker and must not be offended, especially since he was from the provincial city.
Xiao Zhang repeated this to himself several times before introducing the old man beside him: "Sister-in-law, this is Uncle Zhao Liu, who gave his job to Brother Wang. It was Uncle Zhao who came along to privately discuss some factory matters with Brother Wang later.
Otherwise, Brother Wang would go into the factory completely clueless and might suffer."
Xiao Zhang introduced the visitors to Bai Xiuxiu. In this household, Brother Wang listened to his sister-in-law, who was the true head of the family.
Bai Xiuxiu thanked them politely and invited them to sit down. "Uncle Zhao, please take a seat. Xiao Zhang, you can also sit down. Treat this place like your own home; don't feel constrained."
As for the man surnamed Yu, she wasn't sure what kind of person he was.
She glanced at Wang Qinghe, realizing he seemed to know something.
Bai Xiuxiu poured tea for everyone while Wang Qinghe covered the dishes.
"The food will take a bit longer. Have some tea in the meantime."
Wang Qinghe wasn't overly enthusiastic, but it was clear he was being kind.
Xiao Zhang looked around the room. Compared to when Seventh Aunt lived here, there were many more things, even new chairs.
"Brother Wang, this place looks much better now that you've moved in," Xiao Zhang said with a wistful expression.
"This place is indeed nice and spacious," the man surnamed Yu remarked, still glancing at Wang Qinghe. This Wang fellow certainly had a friendly face, younger than him and not particularly rugged-looking.
Yet, he exuded an aura that made him seem formidable.
Most importantly, those eyes were very familiar.
The man surnamed Yu didn't hide his gaze, and Wang Qinghe returned it without hesitation. "Is there something on my face?"
Wang Qinghe didn't know the other man's name, and it seemed the other man didn't want to interact much either.
The man surnamed Yu quickly apologized. "Sorry, I just find you very familiar. How should I address you?"
"Wang Qinghe. This is my wife, Bai Xiuxiu," Wang Qinghe responded, making sure to include his wife.
"That's a great name, sounds like someone who avoids conflict. I love making friends with people who don't fight over things. My name is Yu Cheng. My father always says I'm good at nothing but causing trouble. You both look younger than me.
Just call me Brother Yu. If we meet again, I'll treat you to dinner."
Yu Cheng suddenly became much friendlier.
Xiao Zhang was taken aback. He had been with Yu Cheng for two days and hadn't seen him be polite or friendly to anyone.
"Xiuxiu and I thank you in advance, Brother Yu," Wang Qinghe replied courteously.
Xiao Zhang was equally bewildered. How did they start chatting so easily?
Nothing significant had happened.
"I can stay here for a few more days until Old Qi returns to the provincial city. To be honest, I'm trying to avoid my family pestering me about marriage. It's annoying. I heard that doing small business privately can be quite profitable.
So I thought I'd check out the black market here.
Maybe I can find some business opportunities. Since you're locals, if you know of any good deals, let me know."
After introducing himself to Wang Qinghe, Yu Cheng became much more relaxed, as if this were his own home, and started talking about his plans freely.
Xiao Zhang remained expressionless. Here we go again.
Over the past two days, he had discovered that this man had endless stories!
He talked non-stop, revealing everything!
Uncle Zhao Liu listened in amazement, feeling a bit scared by the young man's boldness.
Wang Qinghe and Bai Xiuxiu didn't expect him to be such a chatterbox.
Bai Xiuxiu worried about her husband, who wasn't fond of talking.
When Yu Cheng finally paused for a drink, Wang Qinghe spoke up. "The person who suggested you do business probably isn't a close friend, right?"
The black market is getting too hot; it's bound to cause problems eventually.
Yu Cheng's smile faltered. "How could that be? We grew up together."
"Then is he doing business?" Wang Qinghe asked.
Yu Cheng's smile faded. If that guy were doing business, he wouldn't need to look elsewhere.
He could just follow him!
"The black market is booming; everyone is tempted," Wang Qinghe sighed, his tone filled with meaning.
Bai Xiuxiu discovered that her man was truly remarkable.
When she died in her previous life, the black market had already disappeared.
She could foresee future events, but he couldn't. Despite having limited exposure to these matters, he could deduce things from minor details.
Even when she was a Wandering Spirit behind him, he was like this.
He always managed to discern his opponents and spot business opportunities.
Yu Cheng's fiery enthusiasm cooled by half after hearing what Wang Qinghe said.
He still wondered if the old fellow was trying to deceive him.
"What's the point of talking about this? Uncle Zhao Liu, we're here for important business today. Don't let Brother Yu keep going on like this." Xiao Zhang was terrified; had Brother Wang's words really gotten through to Brother Yu?
Should he stop being greedy?
"Xiao Wang, this is a booklet I wrote based on my years of work experience. This one covers some affairs at our factory. It's very important because our factory is well-known in the county and has many people. There are a lot of things you need to know, and if you don't, you might suffer later.
Knowing them will at least help you be prepared."
Uncle Zhao Liu handed the two precious booklets to Wang Qinghe.
Wang Qinghe did not refuse and accepted the booklets: "Thank you, Uncle Zhao Liu."
He took the booklets and also remembered Uncle Zhao Liu's kindness.
Xiao Zhang wanted to talk more with Wang Qinghe, but Yu Cheng kept giving him meaningful glances.
Reluctantly, he stood up awkwardly: "Brother Wang, Uncle Zhao Liu's little grandson is home alone. I'll go back with him and help fix their yard. I'll come back later to chat. Brother Yu will stay here for now. Brother Wang, could you watch over him for a bit?"
Uncle Zhao Liu was puzzled; when did he agree to take care of his little grandson?
His little grandson was already at home, ready to sleep.
"Let's go." Xiao Zhang helped Uncle Zhao Liu out.
"Wait." Bai Xiuxiu quickly called them back, went into the house, and brought out a bag of cookies.
She handed them to Uncle Zhao Liu: "Qinghe and I just moved in and haven't prepared anything yet. We should have visited you and your little grandson today. Thank you for coming tonight. These cookies are a small gift from Qinghe and me for the child.
We'll find a good time in a few days to visit you again."
Bai Xiuxiu gave the cookies to Xiao Wang to ensure that Uncle Zhao Liu would accept them.
Chapter 144
Uncle Zhao Liu was stunned. There were dozens of biscuits in that bag, and he hadn't even seen them for sale at the supply and marketing cooperative. This stuff must be very precious?
"Six Uncle, my sister-in-law told us to take it, so let's just take it. Come on, I'll escort you back first."
After they left through the gate, Xiao Zhang hurriedly apologized: "Six Uncle, I'm sorry. Brother Yu probably wanted to talk privately with Brother Wang, so I had to pull you out.
I'll send you back first. We can meet up another day.
Don't worry; both my Brother Wang and his wife are good people. They seem capable, and they know how to repay kindness. When your little grandson visits Brother Wang's house more often, Brother Wang and I can help look after him over time.
As for those vampire relatives of yours, don't bother with them anymore.
They're not worth it. As soon as you leave, that child won't even have food to eat."
Xiao Zhang couldn't hide his disdain when talking about Uncle Zhao Liu's family.
A whole group of people targeting an old man and a child.
They don't even consider how others live and still insist on causing trouble.
Hearing this, Uncle Zhao Liu's eyes welled up with tears: "Xiao Zhang, you're a good kid. Six Uncle... Six Uncle is suffering. My son and daughter-in-law, how could they have gone like that? Leaving behind such a pitiful little grandson, and I'm already so old, not knowing how much longer I can live.
If something happens to me, what will happen to the child?"
"Six Uncle, it's freezing outside. Let's go back to your place first. Last time I visited, I noticed your door wasn't sturdy. I'll reinforce it today," Xiao Zhang coaxed the old man back home.
The two of them left.
Back at home, Bai Xiuxiu, Wang Qinghe, and Yu Cheng, whom they had just met today, sat in silence.
Yu Cheng felt restless inside.
He wasn't good at speaking, which was why his family didn't favor him and preferred their niece's son instead.
He wouldn't have had to come here to avoid trouble otherwise.
Looking at Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe, Yu Cheng decided to be honest: "I asked Xiao Zhang to leave because I wanted to ask you, Qinghe, do you have parents?"
Suddenly, the room became even more awkward.
Seeing the couple staring at him with a look that suggested he was crazy, Yu Cheng grew even more nervous: "No, that's not what I meant. I just wanted to know if you were born to your parents?"
Silence fell even faster.
Yu Cheng now felt extremely uneasy, wishing he could just jump into the stove.
Wang Qinghe and Bai Xiuxiu understood what Yu Cheng meant but were shocked by his way of speaking.
Doesn't he get beaten up every time he goes out?
Bai Xiuxiu tried hard not to laugh and kept a straight face.
Regarding the provincial city, she and her husband remained cautious. No matter who spoke, they needed to stay alert.
After all, they knew nothing about the people from the provincial city, while those people could easily find out about them.
In Wang's family, they could rely on various means, but once there, everything would be much harder.
"I... well, actually, it's like this. You look a bit like a lost child of my uncle. His child has been missing for many years. At first, they couldn't search due to more important matters.
Later, when they could search, they had a new child and a new job, leaving no time.
Recently, they remembered to search for the child again. I came along with the nephew of the aunt from that family.
He came to look for someone, and I came to avoid trouble.
You look kind-hearted, and your age matches roughly what my uncle's lost child should be now, so I thought I'd ask. Who knows, right?"
Yu Cheng smiled brightly, trying to ease the tension.
Bai Xiuxiu sipped tea from her enamel mug without saying a word.
Wang Qinghe pondered for a moment and then smiled ambiguously: "Judging by Brother Yu, you must be someone of status, and your family must be quite powerful, right? Those who know your family must also be influential. Why didn't they search earlier?
Now that their work is stable, why haven't they searched until now?
Why the sudden urgency?"
He asked casually while checking the pot to see how the cooking was going.
The aroma of braised pork filled the air, making Yu Cheng feel a bit hungry. He took a sip of tea and complained with a grimace: "Who said it wasn't sudden? After all these years, they suddenly want to search. My father is close to them, but I'm not that close.
They prefer other people's children!
I think they might have remembered their lost child because their second and third children are useless, and the fourth is a girl chasing some guy in the courtyard.
So they remembered they had another child out there?
It can't be that unlucky to have four useless children, right?"
Yu Cheng's words were harsh, but he was much older than those children. Normally, he should have been married by now.
But he was rebellious, so he still hung out with the unmarried crowd.
The remark was blunt and disdainful, but Wang Qinghe just smiled and said, "How can it be considered unfortunate? If they haven't raised so many children well, shouldn't they reflect on themselves?"
"Right! That's exactly what I mean! I also think they should reflect on themselves, my old man too, these people, they all prefer other people's children!" When Yu Cheng mentioned that child from another family, his eyes almost blazed with fire.
"My uncle has a younger brother who got married early, and his children are two years younger than me."
In the eyes of the elders... oh no, I mean the older generation, he truly excels in every aspect. During festivals and holidays, he is the one who is always praised.
Yu Cheng spoke with a look of disgust on his face.
Over the years, he has really suffered a great deal because of this person.
"Ah? How did you steer the conversation off course? You haven't answered me yet," Yu Cheng suddenly remembered the important matter.
Wang Qinghe still smiled: "Whether I am the biological child of my parents, that's a question for them. How could I answer that for you? By the way, I heard you're interested in doing business?"
"Right? Didn't you say it's not possible?"
Yu Cheng looked listless.
"To be honest, I've recently been studying Traditional Chinese Medicine and planning to make something that can nourish the body. Once I've mastered it, have the qualifications, and can prescribe medicine, I'll come to you," Wang Qinghe gave him a heads-up.
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners must undergo rigorous study and examination to qualify for prescribing medication.
It will take quite a bit of time, but let's first draw the cake for him.
Provide him with some more valuable medicinal materials to sell, first in small quantities to test the waters. If this person proves to be reliable, then use Yu Cheng's network to distribute them further.
If there's anything, naturally, he has to take responsibility for it. Most importantly, he can get news from the provincial capital through Yu Cheng.
"You've got this skill too? Alright, but how many years did it take you to learn?" Yu Cheng's face was full of frustration. Wasn't this a trip for nothing? The scolding at home would be doubled!
"I have some medicinal herbs, not a lot, which I've bought from others and saved up. Why don't you take them to the provincial capital and see if you can sell them? The prices there are generally higher than here, right? It's better than making a trip for nothing." Wang Qinghe looked at him and spoke slowly.
Chapter 145
Yu Cheng was startled. How could Wang Qinghe be even bolder than him? Was he thinking of reselling herbs? Was he crazy?
Noticing Yu Cheng's hesitation, Wang Qinghe reassured him, "Don't misunderstand. You're just helping a friend deliver herbs he picked in the mountains to a legitimate pharmacy or hospital in the provincial city."
"I know how to hunt, and there are plenty of herbs in the mountains near our village. If we can sell them at a higher price in the city than in our county, I'll split the extra profit with you. This is just a way to thank a friend, not a business transaction.
I'm just a lucky person who got a job in the city. I don't do business.
Brother Yu, please don't take it the wrong way."
Wang Qinghe's explanation left Yu Cheng speechless.
So, was he the only one without a brain?
This still sounded like doing business, but his words made it sound much better.
It wasn't a big deal; he was just helping sell some herbs...
Though it might not bring much money now, things could change in the future.
His family favored his aunt's son and his uncle's son. As for him, neither his father nor mother cared much about him, and the elders found him annoying. He needed to find his own way out.
"Alright, I'll help you. I love helping others!" Yu Cheng agreed.
He thought that if there was any profit, he could come back again. After all, each trip wouldn't cost much.
Saving up for a while before coming would be great!
"I'll go get the herbs. Qinghe, you help me show Brother Yu the herbs later." Bai Xiuxiu got up and went inside, as the herbs were stored in her space. She wasn't sure how many to give Yu Cheng.
If she said to bring a few bags, she didn't want to scare him.
Moreover, it would be less troublesome.
Bai Xiuxiu took out several bags of astragalus from her space, a total of more than ten jute sacks, plus the latest batch, making sixteen sacks in total.
Wang Qinghe left Yu Cheng in the living room and went inside. Seeing so many sacks, he whispered to Bai Xiuxiu, "Xiuxiu, keep these ten aside."
"Okay." Bai Xiuxiu agreed with Wang Qinghe.
After putting away the sacks, Wang Qinghe dragged the other six outside.
Yu Cheng had expected only a few herbs collected from the mountains, not much.
Seeing those sacks, he was stunned.
Who packs herbs in jute sacks?
Wang Qinghe noticed Yu Cheng's shock and let him inspect the quality himself.
"Brother Yu, my wife and I haven't seen much of the world and don't know how business works. However, since we've only met once, I'm not entirely comfortable handing over these herbs to you."
Wang Qinghe looked troubled.
Yu Cheng understood and, emboldened by the sight of the six sacks, spoke up.
"I know you're worried I won't come back. Let's do this: tomorrow, I'll borrow a scale and pay you based on the local price. That way, if I don't return, you won't lose out. If I do, you'll make a profit.
What do you think?"
Wang Qinghe maintained his calm demeanor, leaving Yu Cheng unsure of his thoughts.
Wang Qinghe casually picked up a piece of astragalus. "Brother Yu is a generous person. I trust you to help us. After all, someone as generous as Brother Yu wouldn't do a one-off deal."
Yu Cheng's heart skipped a beat. Did Wang Qinghe know what he was thinking?
Did he know his intentions?
But... did he have more of these?
Yu Cheng was intrigued and realized that a one-off deal wasn't worth it.
Thinking this, he tried to hide his nervousness. "Of course, I knew coming here was the right choice. This small place has its surprises."
Wang Qinghe remained silent, while Bai Xiuxiu watched her husband and then Yu Cheng.
Whenever Wang Qinghe acted this way in the past, it usually meant he was planning something.
There was something familiar about Yu Cheng... where had she heard his name?
Oh!
In the second year after her death, when Wang Qinghe and Xiao Zhang were talking, Xiao Zhang mentioned that a grandson of a prominent figure in the provincial city named Yu Cheng was killed because of a business deal. It was a gruesome death.
That year, Xiao Zhang and his brother barely escaped trouble with their black market stall.
So, it was him?
He really did come here to do business. If he hadn't come today, he might have done business with someone else.
"Brother Qinghe, Sister-in-Law, you two can rest assured. From now on, I'll take care of you." Yu Cheng was feeling elated at this moment, thinking about how he could finally save some money for himself.
He didn't have any grand ambitions; he just wanted to save more money.
Who doesn't want to live a better life? Despite his slick appearance, his meals weren't much better than anyone else's.
He had come out this time to find a way to secure his future.
A way out aside from his current job!
"Then I'll thank Brother Yu in advance." Wang Qinghe didn't hesitate, as he intended to use Yu Cheng.
The two of them were talking very smoothly.
In the village, in the big house of the Wang family.
Zhao Guifen's face was swollen on one side, and she was crying during the meal.
Her crying made the whole family too afraid to speak up.
"Dad, what's wrong with Mom?" Wang Qingqi was worried.
"It's all because of that ungrateful eldest son!" Zhao Guifen felt even more aggrieved. The eldest son's family had moved away, and she feared that those people would miss them and come after her. She hurried to inform them, following the old man's instructions, to check in the county if there were any newly relocated Wangs.
If they found them, they could share more of the spoils afterward.
But those people actually hit her, an old woman, and said she was tricking them.
She had even offended her brother-in-law because of this.
Zhao Guifen felt bitter, but she couldn't tell her son.
If word got out, more people would know, and both she and the old man would be vulnerable.
Zhao Guifen suffered silently, and Wang Shoucheng was also furious.
A good thing had turned into such a mess.
Zhou Jiaojiao looked at her in-laws and guessed something. She had already asked Brother Hu to inquire when she went to the county today.
It would be easier for Zhou Jiaojiao to go to the county since Brother Hu knew many people. He could ask around to see if they had moved to the county, and she would also need to find someone to ask at the commune.
She wouldn't let them off easily!
"Old Fifth's wife, now that the eldest has moved away, she won't be in the village anymore. The work for the Women's Federation should be given to someone else, right?" Wang Shoucheng looked at Zhou Jiaojiao, pondering another matter.
Chapter 146
When Zhou Jiaojiao heard her father-in-law's words, her heart stirred with excitement. These past few days, she had been overwhelmed by various events—first being detained and nearly charged, then returning to find the family splitting up.
Not only did Bai Xiuxiu move out, but she also took a considerable amount of money from the family under the pretense of her situation.
The Wang household was now practically empty.
Furthermore, she was being manipulated by the family, forced to go to the black market and into the mountains.
All these events left her reeling. Now that Bai Xiuxiu was gone, why should she continue working for the Women's Federation in the village?
Zhou Jiaojiao put down her bowl. "Dad, I'll go talk to Aunt Jinhua. If Bai Xiuxiu can do it, there's no reason why I can't."
With that, she ran off.
"Old Fifth, stop eating and go with your wife," urged Wang Shoucheng to his youngest son.
"Old man, if she goes to the Women's Federation, who will handle the black market?" Zhao Guifen was bewildered.
Wang Shoucheng glanced at his wife. "Such an important task shouldn't be entrusted to the young ones; I wouldn't feel reassured. Old woman, you should go. If this works out, let Old Fifth's wife work at the Women's Federation during the day and come back to make those dishes at night.
Then you can sell them the next day.
As long as Old Fifth's wife makes the arrangements, we won't have to worry about anything else."
Wang Shoucheng had his own calculations. With such a lucrative opportunity, he couldn't risk letting Old Fifth's wife keep going to the county alone. Who knew if she might secretly stash some money?
It would be most reassuring to send his wife instead.
Zhao Guifen hadn't expected this responsibility to fall on her, and she felt a surge of joy.
She hoped Old Fifth's wife would succeed.
Zhao Cuihua watched her parents-in-law with disdain. These two old folks had no good intentions whatsoever.
But today, she needed to get the full story. When her sister-in-law returned, she could tell her everything.
Just looking at their neighbors, anyone could deduce that her sister-in-law would definitely come back.
Previously, the head of the Women's Federation wasn't even from this village, yet everything went smoothly.
Her father-in-law was overthinking things!
He might as well dream on.
Zhou Jiaojiao and Wang Qingqi didn't go to the brigade office; they headed straight to Chen Jinhua's house.
At this hour, Chen Jinhua's family had already finished dinner.
The brigade leader was reviewing the harvest records of the three villages he oversaw, feeling enthusiastic. Come spring, their village must start working earliest!
"What's with you? It's so late, why aren't you sleeping?" Chen Jinhua brought in a basin of hot water and saw her husband still engrossed in his work, feeling exasperated.
Was he planning to dedicate himself entirely to these three villages?
Every day, he neglected his meals and sleep.
"Just a moment, just a bit longer. With snow coming soon, I'm thinking of organizing a collective search for medicinal herbs in the mountains. The treasures in our mountains can fetch a good price, which could help the families here."
The brigade leader picked up a medical book he had borrowed from Old Zhang just a few days ago.
The book had illustrations of medicinal herbs.
This idea came from Old Zhang, who thoughtfully marked several common herbs found in the mountains.
Old Zhang, usually quiet, had given a truly insightful suggestion.
Now, he needed to memorize these herbs and prepare multiple copies for everyone.
Winter was approaching, and they needed to act quickly.
Once it snowed, it would be too late.
"Is Aunt Jinhua home?" Outside, Zhou Jiaojiao knocked on the door.
"Who's there this late? What time is it?" Chen Jinhua frowned upon hearing the knock.
"You'd better check. This noise might wake up our mother and son," Chen Zhuangshi urged his wife.
Chen Jinhua looked at her husband, who seemed lost in his book, and rolled her eyes. "Fine, I'll go see. Don't let me interrupt your learning, just keep studying!"
Chen Jinhua came out in a huff.
Upon seeing Zhou Jiaojiao and Wang Qingqi standing outside, her anger intensified: "Why are you two here so late? All the village dogs are asleep. What's the matter?"
Though Chen Jinhua's tone was harsh, her expression remained neutral.
Hearing this, Zhou Jiaojiao offered a small bag of candy to Chen Jinhua. "Aunt Jinhua, I have something to discuss with you. Can we come in and talk?"
Chen Jinhua didn't take the candy and scrutinized Zhou Jiaojiao. "Alright, say what you need to say. No need for these tricks. Let's talk here."
Seeing that she wasn't invited inside, Zhou Jiaojiao's eyes darkened, cursing inwardly.
But she maintained a sweet demeanor and spoke softly, her voice matching her name, gentle and delicate: "Aunt Jinhua, my sister-in-law moved away, right? She used to work for the Women's Federation in our village, but now she's not here anymore.
Shouldn't someone else take her place?"
I've been to school too. If my sister-in-law can do it, so can I.
Can you see if I can take her place?
I don't mean anything by it. I just think that since my sister-in-law left so irresponsibly, as family, I should help her out. When the news gets around, it will prevent anyone from saying anything bad about her.
I'm doing this for her."
Zhou Jiaojiao's few words left Chen Jinhua speechless.
How can someone be like Zhou Jiaojiao?
Why didn't she notice this before?
What kind of twisted logic is this?
Chen Jinhua felt disgusted and got goosebumps from her attitude, stepping back in revulsion: "Enough, stop talking. Who told you that moving away means leaving the Women's Federation? Xiuxiu isn't like that; she's just moving and has taken leave from here.
Even if Xiuxiu were to quit one day, it wouldn't be your turn.
There are plenty of capable people in our village. We chose Xiuxiu not only because she's educated but also because she's physically weak. Her sister is a military family member who's not here now, so we need to look after her. Look at you?
Strong as an ox, what would you come to the Women's Federation for?
To punch everyone else to death?"
"Aunt Jinhua, how can you talk like that? Aren't you bullying us?" Wang Qingqi couldn't hold back any longer upon hearing his wife being scolded.
"Don't like it? If you don't like it, don't come to my doorstep. What kind of people are you! Go home quickly; don't stand there and bring us bad luck. It's late, and you two are truly unlucky!" Aunt Jinhua turned away in disgust.
Zhou Jiaojiao's face turned red as she glared at Chen Jinhua's back.
"Jiaojiao, let's go back first."
After scolding them, Chen Jinhua felt refreshed.
Back in the house, her husband had stopped reading.
Seeing her return, the captain was puzzled: "Why did they come?"
Chapter 147
Chen Zhuangshi couldn't hear clearly what was happening outside, but he saw that it was Old Wang's son, Wang Qingqi, and his daughter-in-law, Zhou Jiaojiao. Weren't these two quite favored in the Wang family? What could they possibly be upset about coming over so late at night?
"Tsk! Don't mention them; just thinking about them brings me bad luck. You know... it's so late."
Chen Jinhua recounted to her husband what had happened outside.
Listening to her, Chen Zhuangshi frowned deeply: "Isn't this just causing trouble? Can't their family be more peaceful? As for the Women's Federation matter, as long as Bai Xiuxiu doesn't neglect her work, she is still one of our villagers, so there's no need to change anything.
If she becomes an urban resident and starts eating commodity grain in the city, then we can make changes later.
Shouldn't there be any issues with Bai Xiuxiu, right?"
"Don't worry. She said it won't affect our village's work." Chen Jinhua always had a soft spot for Bai Xiuxiu, knowing how grateful the girl truly was.
Zhou Jiaojiao, feeling humiliated, returned to the Wang house and ran straight to her room, crying.
Wang Qingqi awkwardly went into the main room.
Seeing her son return, Zhao Guifen quickly asked about the situation.
Wang Qingqi, with a grim face, recounted what had happened, which infuriated Zhao Guifen, making her want to go find someone to argue with.
"Enough, if it doesn't work out, forget it. If she wants to go back to the village, whatever happens in the future will be her own misfortune." Wang Shoucheng's eyes were filled with malice.
Zhao Guifen also remembered something. "Right! How could I forget that?"
"Old Fifth, go back and comfort your wife. She is a great contributor to our family, and you must not let her lose hope in us." Wang Shoucheng instructed his son, knowing the family couldn't do without Old Fifth's wife earning money for them.
Wang Qingqi hurried back to his room.
Zhou Jiaojiao's eyes were red from crying. Seeing her husband return, she stared at him intently.
Wang Qingqi felt uneasy under her gaze: "What's wrong, dear? Why are you staring at me like that? It wasn't me who scolded you."
"If you weren't such a failure, would I be like this? Listen, you must transfer to the county soon, and I want to live there with you. I can't stay in this house anymore. Your parents clearly want me to support all of you. They treated your brother poorly, and now they want to treat me the same way."
The events of the past few days had driven Zhou Jiaojiao to the brink of collapse.
Wang Qingqi sensed something was off: "How can that be? Your brother was much worse off than you. In this family, we are treated well, aren't we?"
"You fool, why did I marry you? If we go to the county, we can live independently. The old folks will have to give us benefits, and we won't have to share our earnings with them." Zhou Jiaojiao began painting a rosy picture.
Wang Qingqi knew about these benefits, but transferring to the county wouldn't be easy.
"Qingqi, trust me. My good luck will bring you fortune. It won't be long before an opportunity arises." Zhou Jiaojiao coaxed her husband, her eyes still unsettlingly deep.
She hadn't told anyone, but she had dreams—visions from many years in the future where Wang Qingqi was a wealthy man, and she lived a life of luxury after marrying him. Compared to now, it was like living in a golden nest versus a straw hut.
After marrying Wang Qingqi, she occasionally had dreams too.
In those dreams, only she and Wang Qingqi were making money and enjoying success.
Recently, she even dreamed that those with academic ability could pursue further education.
To live a better life, she had to be with Wang Qingqi.
Only he could give her that kind of life.
Wang Qingqi didn't know where Zhou Jiaojiao got her confidence from, perhaps it was the natural confidence of a lucky person?
But since she said it, if he didn't agree, she would surely cause a scene tonight.
"Alright, I believe you. Dear, it's late. Let's go to sleep."
Wang Qingqi didn't want to listen to her fanciful dreams anymore and urged her to go to bed.
In the county.
Xiao Zhang arrived at Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe's place around the same time.
Yu Cheng, who had previously acted arrogantly when Xiao Zhang first brought him here, now actively set up the dining table and helped serve the meal.
Xiao Zhang was stunned by the transformation.
How long had it been?
Was this still the Yu Ge from earlier?
Who switched him?
"Xiao Zhang, what are you standing there for? Come help serve the food!" Yu Cheng called out to the stunned Xiao Zhang.
Wang Qinghe carried his daughter and son over. Even Yueyue, seeing the unfamiliar uncle, sat between Wang Qinghe and Bai Xiuxiu, behaving even more quietly than usual.
Yu Cheng stared at the children, envious.
Though he wasn't married, he loved children!
He just hadn't found the right person to marry yet.
After a harmonious dinner, Yu Cheng reluctantly bid farewell to Wang Qinghe and Bai Xiuxiu.
His enthusiasm and clinginess made Xiao Zhang feel he was more excessive than his brother's dog!
"I say, Yu Ge, why do you seem different from before?" Xiao Zhang supported the grinning Yu Cheng.
Yu Cheng glanced at him and scoffed: "You don't understand. How much can you see?"
Xiao Zhang really wanted to kick this person away.
This guy hasn't even had a drink yet, how is he already drunk?
"Xiao Zhang, help me get a scale tomorrow. Remember, don't let the people who came with me know about it." Yu Cheng patted Xiao Zhang's shoulder, his mysterious and serious tone making Xiao Zhang feel even more helpless.
Why was he so unlucky?
To have taken on such a mess from Brother Yu.
"Alright, but Brother Yu, I advise you not to do any business. Don't look at Brother Wang needing my help now, but I think he's no ordinary person. Whatever he says, I listen.
If my brother didn't have so many stalls, we wouldn't be doing this." Xiao Zhang rarely spoke from the heart like this.
Mainly because he couldn't connect with his brother's friend, but he could talk more with Brother Yu.
His brother left Brother Yu with him just to help them get closer, so they would have another way out in the future.
Yu Cheng glanced at Xiao Zhang, thinking of the person who tricked him in the provincial capital.
He found Xiao Zhang more pleasant than those people.
"Don't worry, I'm not that stupid. Just get me a scale, and I have my own plans for the rest." Yu Cheng finished speaking and walked off, humming an out-of-tune tune.
Xiao Zhang resignedly followed behind.
New home.
Wang Qinghe cleaned up the bowls and chopsticks, looking at his wife who was washing up, feeling an indescribable sense of satisfaction.
"Xiuxiu, the tap water outside is cold, leave the clothes for me to wash. Even though the person who pushed you into the water is already in jail, when you return to the village, stay away from dangerous places like the Women's Federation, okay?"
Wang Qinghe put away the dishes and continued with other chores while talking to his wife.
Bai Xiuxiu wiped her face, seeing his worried expression and agreed without hesitation.
After washing up, Bai Xiuxiu went into the room, took out new stationery, and prepared to write letters to her mother and elder sister.
Chapter 148
Moving to a new home made it easier for her mother and elder sister to visit her, and it was also more convenient for her to visit them. When they sent her things or she sent them things, there was no need to hide anymore.
Every time she wrote to them, Bai Xiuxiu felt particularly happy.
Bai Xiuxiu told them about the recent division of the household and that her husband had already secured a job in the county. She also included her new address.
She packed the clothes she had knitted for her elder sister's child and the clothes for her elder sister and brother-in-law's family, preparing to mail them together.
The clothes she knitted for her mother, she decided to keep until her mother came to visit.
Wang Qinghe had cleaned up the living room and returned to the room after washing up. By then, Bai Xiuxiu had almost finished writing her letter.
"Are we only mailing these things?" Wang Qinghe saw what his wife had prepared and thought they could send more.
When he and Xiuxiu lived at the Wangs', if it weren't for the packages from her elder sister and mother, Xiuxiu's life would have been even harder.
Now that they had separated from the Wangs' and their lives were better, it was only right to send more to them.
"We've already mailed New Year's goods to them. These should be enough," Bai Xiuxiu said as she organized the items and the letter.
Wang Qinghe never argued with his wife.
"Then let's mail these things tomorrow and go back to the village."
As he spoke, he closed the door and looked at his wife expectantly. "Xiuxiu, can we rest now?"
Seeing his expression, Bai Xiuxiu understood perfectly well.
She nodded at him and set aside her tasks.
In the morning, Bai Xiuxiu woke up to the smell of rice.
She habitually looked towards where the stove usually stood but found it empty, reminding her that they had moved.
After changing her clothes, Bai Xiuxiu came out of the room and was immediately surrounded by the two children.
"Mom, play with us outside." Yueyue eagerly tugged at her to go out.
Both children had been waiting for a long time. Their father had told them not to disturb their mother while she slept.
The children begged her to play in the courtyard. Bai Xiuxiu glanced at her husband who was cooking: "It's so early. Can I help you?"
Wang Qinghe looked up, his handsome face slightly smudged with soot. He smiled at Bai Xiuxiu: "Xiuxiu, go play with them. I'll call you when the food is ready."
Seeing the eager faces of the children, Bai Xiuxiu knew they had been cooped up for too long, so she went out with them.
Outside in the courtyard, next to the neighbor's house.
Ning Meimei was sorting beans when she saw Bai Xiuxiu come out with the two children. She quickly approached them. "Xiaobai, your kids are so cute."
The two children were digging in the dirt and making little figures. Bai Xiuxiu casually made two small rabbits for them.
Noticing Ning Meimei coming over, she responded: "Kids are all adorable. Sister Ning, you're up so early?"
At this hour, the sky had just begun to brighten.
Hearing this, Ning Meimei glanced at her own home and whispered, "I dare not be late. If I don't get up early, the whole house will be in chaos. My mother-in-law always finds fault with me. By the way, Xiuxiu, where do you work now?"
"I? I work at the Women's Federation in our village," Bai Xiuxiu said, washing the mud off her hands as she chatted with Ning Meimei.
Ning Meimei was quite talkative.
After a short chat, Bai Xiuxiu had learned quite a bit about her neighbors.
The Lin family had three sons and three daughters.
All three sons worked at the local canning factory, and only the youngest son's wife had a job, having taken over the grandmother's position. Ning Meimei and her eldest sister-in-law stayed at home.
Their three daughters had married well and often sent things back home.
Few families in the neighborhood got along with the Lins.
Most of the neighbors worked at the canning factory.
After chatting for a while, Ning Meimei saw her mother-in-law coming out of the house and quickly ran away. "I'll talk to you another day; I'm going back now."
She ran fast, afraid of being seen by her mother-in-law.
"You lazy good-for-nothing! Where did you run off to so early? You never stop slacking off. I serve the whole family and still have to deal with a lazy thing like you!" The commotion from the Lin family was loud enough to be heard through the walls.
Through the door, one could see the Lin grandmother.
She was slightly plump, fair-skinned, and had a fierce look in her eyes, as if they were hooks.
She scolded Ning Meimei harshly.
Ning Meimei listened with her head down, relieved once the scolding ended. "Mother, I have this much work to do anyway. If you can't stand seeing me idle, why don't you let the youngest daughter-in-law give me her job?
There are three daughters-in-law in the family, yet you gave the job to her.
What else can my sister-in-law and I do besides stay at home?"
"Tsk! You dare to talk back? I can give my job to whoever I want. Why can't you find a job yourself? It's because your family is useless. If you had a capable family..."
The grandmother continued to argue and find faults.
Ning Meimei rolled her eyes and went straight into the house.
Soon, the old lady followed her in to scold her, but Bai Xiuxiu couldn't hear it anymore.
It seemed Ning Meimei wasn't having an easy time next door either.
"Xiuxiu, come eat." Wang Qinghe placed the food on the table and called his wife to eat. Seeing that their two children were still playing, he picked them up to wash their hands.
After the family finished eating, Bai Xiuxiu and Wang Qinghe took the two children to the village.
Having just moved to this new place, Bai Xiuxiu wasn't comfortable leaving the children at home yet.
Once she became familiar with the environment, she would settle the children at home.
When the family of four arrived in the village, passersby asked them curiously. The village was small, and news of their move had already spread.
Arriving at the commune office, Wang Qinghe accompanied Bai Xiuxiu inside before turning to find the team leader. He had found work in the county and needed to transfer his household registration, which required the approval of the commune.
Seeing Bai Xiuxiu return, Chen Jinhua looked delighted. "How did the move go? Are your new neighbors nice?"
"That's right, Xiuxiu. You moved without a word, giving us quite a fright." Liu Xiaohui was envious; living far from her mother-in-law sounded like heaven.
If only she could separate from her family, even if not moving far, just separating would be enough.
Miaomiao, though not envious, was curious as well.
Bai Xiuxiu was surrounded by questions while the two children went off to play where they usually did.
"The move happened because my husband found work in the county, so I and the children moved with him," she explained with a smile.
Liu Xiaohui was even more envious. "That's wonderful! Since it's the county, will your household registration also be transferred?"
"How could that be? It's her husband's job; how can Xiuxiu transfer?" Chen Jinhua interrupted the conversation.
Chapter 149
Although Bai Xiuxiu didn't understand why Aunt Jinhua suddenly emphasized it, she quickly figured it out after thinking about it.
If she continued her work with the Women's Federation in the village without being registered as a villager, she wouldn't be able to continue.
"Yes, my husband transferred his household registration. I'm just going to live with him in the county, but I won't neglect any of the work here," Bai Xiuxiu continued along Chen Jinhua's line of thought.
However, she had no intention of continuing this way indefinitely.
"Right, you two should get to work." Chen Jinhua assigned them their mediation tasks and then pulled Bai Xiuxiu outside.
She told Bai Xiuxiu about Zhou Jiaojiao's desire for this job.
"She's just daydreaming. If you don't do this job, there are plenty of others who will. How could it be her turn? She doesn't even look at herself. What a dreamer." Chen Jinhua was furious about this matter all night; it was the first time she had encountered someone so oblivious.
"Auntie, don't be angry. I definitely won't give this job to her." Bai Xiuxiu was also repulsed by the Wang family's persistent meddling.
"That's good. Let's go back. It's getting colder, and it looks like it might snow soon." Chen Jinhua led Bai Xiuxiu back into the house.
On the other side, Wang Qinghe finished his business and returned to the county.
It was still early, and he arrived at the factory right on time.
Xiao Zhang had been waiting at the factory gate for a while. Seeing Wang Qinghe arrive, he hurried over. "Brother Wang, I have something to tell you."
Wang Qinghe looked at him in confusion.
Xiao Zhang continued, "I've confirmed the bicycle for you. It'll be ready in less than three days. However... Brother Wang, a couple of days ago, someone from Hu's gang inquired about your family. That Hu guy has always had issues with my brother.
He hasn't done anything good.
They were asking about whether your family has money and about your children. It seems they were verifying something, which my friend overheard.
I think it's not a good sign, so I wanted to let you know.
However, they probably don't know about your move yet, so don't worry."
Xiao Zhang frowned as he relayed the information.
Wang Qinghe's expression darkened upon hearing this.
The Wang family had been unusually quiet recently, but now it seemed they were targeting his children.
"I understand." Wang Qinghe took note of this information.
"Oh, by the way, Xiao Zhang, my two younger brothers got beaten up at the commune a few days ago." Wang Qinghe's face turned grim.
"Huh? I heard something about that. Brother Wang, do you want me to talk to the people who beat them up and ask them to go easy on your brothers? I heard they took some money from someone, so that person is trying to extort them.
Because they're related to you, I looked into it more."
Xiao Zhang was puzzled. Was Brother Wang being too kind?
Wang Qinghe smiled. "It's better if my brothers get beaten up more. They took someone's money, so those people shouldn't let them off easily."
Wang Qinghe whispered a few instructions to Xiao Zhang.
After listening, Xiao Zhang's eyes lit up. "Sure, I'll handle it for you, Brother Wang. Don't worry, they won't get off easy. By the way, I also found out about the son of the Zhou family who works in the commune and the county.
As it turns out, your villagers are quite skilled at mischief.
The eldest son of the Zhou family in the county is constantly flirting with a woman..."
Xiao Zhang shared all the information Wang Qinghe had asked him to gather. After receiving the news, Wang Qinghe promptly entered the factory.
In the afternoon, Bai Xiuxiu followed Chen Jinhua to two households in the village to mediate a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship. They stayed at the brigade office afterward.
Miaomiao and Liu Xiaohui were far away and hadn't returned yet.
Through the window, Bai Xiuxiu saw Zhao Cuihua looking around, seemingly searching for something.
Bai Xiuxiu stood up. "Aunt Jinhua, I'll be out for a bit."
"Mm, go ahead." Chen Jinhua was drinking tea and didn't ask further when she saw Bai Xiuxiu leaving.
Outside, Zhao Cuihua spotted Bai Xiuxiu immediately and rushed over.
The door to the brigade office was open, and Zhao Cuihua came in, speaking urgently. "Sister-in-law, our parents are planning to harm you. You need to be careful when you come back!"
"Tell me more?" Bai Xiuxiu led her to a corner.
Zhao Cuihua recounted what she overheard early that morning: "This morning, everyone else had left, but I was in the bathroom because of stomach trouble. I overheard the old couple talking about how they must speak to someone today.
That little slut Bai Xiuxiu still needs to come back to the brigade for work. Even if they can't kidnap the kids, kidnapping her would be just as good.
They plan to wait near the brigade and grab her when she's alone. They'll get more money that way.
They're planning to kidnap you or your children.
I'm scared just thinking about it.
Sister-in-law, you need to be careful."
Zhao Cuihua shivered as she recalled the conversation. Her parents had previously tried to kidnap Bai Xiuxiu's children, but now they were targeting her as well.
And they're going to do it right in the village.
Zhao Cuihua thought the more about it, the worse it seemed. If they succeeded, wouldn't those two old things become even more brazen? Who would be safe if they just tied up anyone who didn't listen?
Are they losing their minds?
What era do they think this is? They still want to do such despicable things?
Bai Xiuxiu didn't expect Zhao Cuihua to tell her everything. She glanced at the frightened Zhao Cuihua and said solemnly, "Thank you for telling me this. Rest assured, this isn't over."
Bai Xiuxiu gave Zhao Cuihua five yuan. "Take it. I don't have time to buy you a gift, but you've done me a favor by sharing this information."
Zhao Cuihua didn't hesitate and took the money immediately.
This small transaction between them was understood by both.
"Sister-in-law, please be very careful." Zhao Cuihua still felt uneasy.
Bai Xiuxiu nodded. "Don't worry, I know what to do."
After Zhao Cuihua left, Bai Xiuxiu was furious about Zhao Guifen and Wang Shoucheng...
"Xiuxiu, what's wrong with you?"
When Bai Xiuxiu returned to the house, Chen Jinhua noticed she seemed angry and worried something had happened.
Bai Xiuxiu decided to tell Aunt Jinhua about it.
After hearing the story, Chen Jinhua was also enraged. "How can those two old things be so evil? No, I need to tell your Uncle Chen!"
"Aunt, there's no evidence now. If they deny it, no one can do anything," Bai Xiuxiu stopped her.
"What should we do then?" Chen Jinhua was anxious.
"Aunt, they plan to act within the next couple of days. Find an excuse to keep the children from going out, so those people don't get desperate and kidnap someone. We need to catch them in the act."
Chapter 150
Chen Jinhua had originally planned to confront Old Wang's family immediately. After hearing Bai Xiuxiu's explanation, she calmed down.
She sat back down. "Xiuxiu, you're right. With their thick skin, even if I go to confront them, they won't admit anything. But, if we catch the child traffickers, will they reveal the old couple?"
"They will, Auntie, don't worry." Bai Xiuxiu already had a plan in mind.
Looking at the two children playing happily in the room, her resolve strengthened.
Taking this opportunity, she would send those two old devils away, so they wouldn't keep targeting her Mingming and Yueyue.
"Alright, I'll follow your lead. What should we do?" Chen Jinhua agreed completely.
She trusted Bai Xiuxiu deeply.
Bai Xiuxiu thought for a moment. "Starting tomorrow, we'll set up an ambush around here. I'll have my husband come pick me up at a fixed time every night, and I'll leave the team at a fixed time each day. No matter how cautious they are, once they confirm my schedule a few times, they'll definitely show up. As soon as they appear, we'll catch them in the act."
Bai Xiuxiu was determined. With everyone watching, no one could escape, and she wouldn't be in danger.
Chen Jinhua was a bit worried. "No, it's too risky for you alone. How about we switch clothes and go out every other day?"
"Auntie, if they notice, it might alert them. If those traffickers escape, many more children could suffer." Bai Xiuxiu refused; this couldn't go wrong.
Besides, Auntie Jinhua was a good person, and she couldn't let her take the risk.
"Well... why don't you discuss it with your husband?" Chen Jinhua felt that Wang Qinghe wouldn't easily agree.
They shouldn't let this affect their relationship.
Mentioning Wang Qinghe, Bai Xiuxiu fell silent.
He would probably worry again...
A short while later, Miaomiao and Liu Xiaohui returned.
Their hair was disheveled, and there were handprint marks on their faces.
It was clear something had gone wrong during their mediation.
Seeing their condition, Chen Jinhua quickly pulled them over to ask what happened. "What happened? I remember you went to the Laoji family in Shanghe Village to mediate. Did the mother-in-law still refuse to let her daughter-in-law remarry?"
Thinking of this, Miaomiao almost cried. "Not only did she refuse, but when we arrived, the daughter-in-law was being tortured by her mother-in-law and was skin and bones. She threatened us, saying that even if her daughter-in-law died, she wouldn't let her remarry. She told us to give up. If her daughter-in-law remarried, she'd jump into the river with her grandson. Isn't this ridiculous?
She has four sons, but she despises the third son, who worked himself to death at a young age. Now she's torturing her daughter-in-law and little grandson. The child is seven years old but looks weaker than Mingming. It breaks my heart. Xiaohui and I tried to persuade them, but the old lady and her eldest daughter-in-law attacked us and chased us out."
Miaomiao's eyes were red as she sat down, still angry, and started fixing her hair.
Liu Xiaohui nodded in agreement with every word Miaomiao said.
After Miaomiao sat down, she added angrily, "If we wait any longer, that old lady will drive her daughter-in-law and grandson to their deaths."
Hearing their story, Chen Jinhua was anxious.
"This can't go on. This isn't the old days where people can bully others like this. We need to go together today and make the old lady explain herself." Zhao Guifen was furious and wanted to go immediately.
"Auntie Jinhua, if we all go, won't we just get beaten up? I think we should ask the team leader tomorrow if he can find more people to go with us. They won't listen to us alone."
Liu Xiaohui quickly held Chen Jinhua back.
She knew that family well.
Although Chen Jinhua was anxious, she agreed. "Xiaohui, when you go home tonight, take someone from your family to check on them. Tell the old lady that if her daughter-in-law dies, we'll report it to the authorities. To prevent her from doing something rash tonight, okay?"
"Sure, I'll have my husband accompany me. Don't worry about it," Liu Xiaohui agreed.
"Right, after we handle this tomorrow, why don't you and Miaomiao take a couple of days off? Xiuxiu has been resting due to family matters, but we can't neglect you two either. You haven't had a break since the harvest ended."
Chen Jinhua thought it best not to involve them in the plan, fearing they might slip up or become scared.
Giving them a break would also keep them safe.
"A break?" Both were delighted.
Originally, Bai Xiuxiu had been on leave for the past few days, which left them both feeling a bit uneasy, after all, everyone was supposed to share the workload equally.
With Bai Xiuxiu on leave, they had to take on more work.
Now that the workload was balanced again, their discomfort immediately vanished.
"Yes, I'll give you three days off. You should go home and rest properly," Chen Jinhua reluctantly granted them time off, knowing she would have to pick up the slack.
"Jinhua Auntie, you're such a good person!"
Miaomiao was so excited she wanted to hug Chen Jinhua, and Liu Xiaohui couldn't hide her smile.
"Sister Xiuxiu is also a good person." Miaomiao began praising Bai Xiuxiu again.
As dusk approached, everyone started heading home.
Bai Xiuxiu watched outside until Wang Qinghe appeared, then she left the house.
Seeing her about to leave, Chen Jinhua reminded her, "Be careful on your way back; don't let those people catch you off guard. Shall I have Uncle Chen escort you and your husband back tomorrow?"
"No need, Qinghe will be fine." Although Bai Xiuxiu said this, she was still worried about her husband's safety. Even the most capable person could be overwhelmed by numbers.
She didn't want anything to happen to him!
She considered asking Xiao Zhang for help to pick her up first.
She wouldn't let his efforts go unrewarded.
Filled with these thoughts, Bai Xiuxiu led the two children out.
At the door, Wang Qinghe saw his wife and children coming out and smiled, "Xiuxiu, let's go home. I borrowed Xiao Zhang's bicycle."
They got on the bicycle, with Bai Xiuxiu sitting at the back and the two children in the middle, while she and Wang Qinghe protected them from falling off.
On the way back, the family of four chatted and laughed together.