《After Being Reborn and Regaining Her Identity, the True Heiress Is Spoiled in the Seventies》


 Chapter 1: Back to the Seventies

    <h4>Chapter 1</h4>


    A nauseatingly sour stench rushed into her nostrils, causing the unconscious girl''s eyebrows to wrinkle tightly. There was also a spicy taste in her mouth, apanied by lewdughter.


    The bald old man trembled with excitement as he reached out to the girl, trying to unbutton her top, his flushed red face and thick neck showing his arousal.


    An ZhiXia suddenly opened her eyes to see the man grinning, baring his rotten yellow teeth as he tried to kiss her. The disgust was so extreme that she nearly threw up.


    Seeing that she was awake did not scare the old man at all, it actually excited him more. "Little darling, it''s good that you''re awake. It''s better than being a dead fish with no vigor."


    The old man lunged at An ZhiXia, but she kicked him hard in the chest, knocking him t on his face.


    This familiar scene inevitably reminded her of the tragic scene before her death.


    An ZhiXia, who had just turned eighteen, was sold by her parents to an old widower in the deep mountains for twenty dors.


    Without even consulting her, they had drugged her. When she woke up, she saw an old man groping her.


    Resisting led to An ZhiXia being strangled to death by the old man. After her death, her body was dismembered and buried in the mountains.


    Perhaps because she died such an unjust death, her soul did not dissipate. Instead, it floated back to her original home, only to find out that her death had been premeditated all along.


    She heard her adoptive parents discussing, "Don''t worry, I asked around for that man on purpose. He''s ugly and vicious. His former wife was beaten to death by him. That wretched girl Xiao Cao already has a weak constitution. She definitely won''tst more than a few days before she''s dead. Then no one will know what we did... MeiYun can properly be the precious daughter of the family..."


    An ZhiXia was still called Xiao Cao at the time. It was not until decadester when her fourth brother figured out the truth and came here, that she was given the name An ZhiXia. By then, her body had long decayed with no one knowing where the pieces were scattered. Her brother could only grab a handful of soil from the deep mountains and make a symbolic grave for her, and give her a proper name.


    To understand An ZhiXia''s background, one has to go back eighteen years.


    In 1952, the wife of the Gao family had difficulties giving birth, so she was sent to the next vige over to the midwife''s home to deliver the baby. Coincidentally, the midwife''s daughter had a miscarriage from falling over at her own home. The two women gave birth at the same time - one was from an impoverished rural family, the other had married into a family with public employment in the city, the difference in their circumstances was huge.


    So Mrs. Gao devised a n to switch her newborn daughter for the other family''s newborn twin girls.


    And so, An MeiYun, who should have been a rural girl, became the precious daughter of the city family. Meanwhile, An ZhiXia, who should have had a good life, became the wild grass "Xiao Cao Gao" in this little vige.


    Originally, the Gao couple only favored boys over girls, and did not mistreat her too badly. But two years ago, when they reconnected with An MeiYun, and An ZhiXia grew to resemble her birth mother more over the years, the Gaos became worried their secret would be exposed. So they began abusing An ZhiXia, not allowing her to leave the house, and finally directly sold her off to her death in the deep mountains.


    Because she was unwilling to die, An ZhiXia''s spirit followed An MeiYun for decades after her death, and heard with her own ears An MeiYun saying she was reborn. In her previous life, An ZhiXia''s true identity was exposed so the An family took her back. Burdened by guilt over An ZhiXia, An MeiYun could only lower her status and be oppressed by An ZhiXia for a lifetime.


    In this new life, she wanted An ZhiXia to die, so no one could take away her parents and brother again.


    In the following decades, An MeiYun built her own sessful life by stepping on the An family, leading to their ruin.


    Only her fourth brother eventually uncovered the truth, but it was toote. He erected a tombstone for An ZhiXia at her family''s gravesite, then went to take revenge on An MeiYun but was imprisoned. Heter died in prison.


    Did An ZhiXia hate An MeiYun?


    Of course she did.


    She wished she could y An MeiYun''s skin and dismantle her bones, eat her flesh and drink her blood.


    But as just a wisp of a soul, she was powerless against her.


    She watched as the An family declined into ruin under An MeiYun''s sabotage. She watched An MeiYun build a sessful life by stepping on the An family, marrying and having children - seemingly living a happy and peaceful life.


    After everyone died, An ZhiXia thought her grudges would disappear, but she did not vanish. She could only exist in the world as a wandering ghost, unable to reincarnate.


    For a whole century, she did not encounter any other beings like herself.


    In 2070, one hundred years after her tragic death, there was a meteor shower that had the whole nation watching eagerly.


    At the time, An ZhiXia was following a chef to secretly learn cooking skills. The chef and his girlfriend went to the mountain peak to watch the meteor shower, so she also floated to the peak.


    She heard that making wishes when meteors fall is very effective, so every time one passed, she would make a wish for herself, from originally wishing for An MeiYun to meet a horrible end, toter wishing for the An family members to live well. None of the wishes came true.


    Now, she only hoped that she could forget the past and re-enter the cycle of reincarnation.


    Whether by misfortune or luck, a meteor flew straight at her. No matter how she desperately floated away, it still hit her and knocked her back to the 1970s, the year she turned eighteen.


    "Damn you, you little bitch, how dare you attack me! I will make you know your ce today..." The man cursed as he climbed to his feet, face twisted in anger as he grabbed An ZhiXia''s hair.


    The intense pain nearly tore her scalp off, instantly clearing An ZhiXia''s mind. She reached up to w the man''s eyes.


    After being a ghost for a hundred years, she had seen all kinds of things. She was no longer that timid, helpless victim.


    The old man was caught off guard as An ZhiXia jabbed his eyes. He immediately howled in pain as his hands released her hair to cover his temporarily blinded eyes.


    At this moment, An ZhiXia was filled with the urge to kill the man, but heat surged through her drugged body, making her dizzy and limp.


    "You damn slut, how dare you scratch me. I''ll be waiting for the drugs to kick in, then you''ll be throwing yourself at me begging me to f**k you..."


    The man covered his eyes andughed manically, "You''re lucky I''m willing to sleep with you. Don''t pretend to be shy, just satisfy me well and I may show you some mercy,fort you a bit. If you keep acting coy, I''ll break your legs tomorrow and make youy there like a beast..."


    His vulgar curses were cut off as An ZhiXia grabbed the coarse ceramic bowl from the table and smashed it on his head, instantly splitting his forehead and making blood gush out.


    Taking advantage of the man''s panic, An ZhiXia groped her way to the door, opened it and rushed outside.


    The sound of barking dogs came from behind, but An ZhiXia, who had finally regained a chance at life, absolutely could not give in - she would face the same fate as her previous life if she did.


    She had to live. She had to properly live this life.


    Live to expose An MeiYun and the Gao family''s true natures, and take back the life that belonged to her.

 Chapter 2: In the middle of the Night, probably hit a ghost.

    <h4>Chapter 2</h4>


    The dark and thorny forest was overgrown.


    An ZhiXia did not dare to ck off at all, and ran forward mechanically.


    She was not unexhausted. In fact, she was so tired that her legs were numb. The efficacy of the drug in her body surged to her head from time to time, constantly impacting her nerves.


    She did not know where this was, only that she was surrounded by trees and weeds.


    The sounds chasing her from behind had disappeared. She was still desperately running.


    The vines under her feet tripped her and An ZhiXia fell hard to the ground, but her head bumped into a warm chest.


    The heat flowing from her nose brought her back to her senses momentarily. With tears brimming in her eyes, she opened them to find that she had fallen on top of a man, based on the muffled groan from underneath her.


    With thest of her will thoroughly corroded, she really could not hold back any longer...


    Pei Jing was also unlucky. Chasing a viin to the deep mountains, he was surrounded by a pack of wolves.


    After barely escaping death, he had just copsed here exhausted when a woman came crashing down on him, nearly suffocating him.


    Pei Jing half-opened his eyes and nced over. The woman on top of him was disheveled, her hair a mess like a bird''s nest. Half her face was caked with blood and unrecognizable. She looked just like a female ghost.


    In the dead of night, deep in the mountains, he must be so unlucky to have run into a ghost!


    His chest had been scratched by the wolves and was still bleeding. Using all his willpower, he warily watched the female ghost.


    This female ghost was also a pervert. Her w-like hands groped his chest randomly. She kissed his neck with her bloodied face indiscriminately, no matter how dirty.


    "Get lost!"


    Pei Jing gritted his teeth to spit out these two words.


    The next moment, his eyes widened in disbelief at the wanton actions of the woman on top of him.


    "Let go of me, let go..."


    Pei Jing swore this was the most shameless woman he had ever seen. He could judge she was human based on her body temperature, which felt abnormally hot.


    From this he deduced that the woman''s consciousness was not clear at all right now.


    If not for his severe blood loss and weakness, Pei Jing would not have been so powerless to resist when she grabbed his weakness.


    An ZhiXia currently had no awareness at all, relying solely on her body''s instincts to grope around.


    After a while, she seemed to realize something. She looked up nkly at the man, her eyes uncontrobly showing a hint of contempt. "Are you even a man?"


    And still no reaction despite all this.


    Boom!


    These words were like flipping a switch.


    Pei Jing''s entire being reacted, which in turn awakened An ZhiXia''s instincts.


    An ZhiXia also had no experience, which led to both of them suffering painful awkwardness...


    The night was still dark when An ZhiXia dazedly opened her eyes, looking at the man still pinned unconscious beneath her. A sh of remorse appeared in her eyes.


    She hated that bald old man, but she had also forced herself onto someone else, even if it was not her intention...she still felt quite sorry for him!


    Voices shouting drifted over from afar. An ZhiXia scrambled up and ran, but her sore legs gave out and she tumbled down the slope, rolling over and over in the bushes before finally passing out.


    When she opened her eyes again, the sky was already bright.


    Covered in blood, shey limply on the ground, her empty eyes staring up at the sky.


    For a long, long time, she finally burst intoughter, rolling on the ground until the pain from her injuries made her convulse uncontrobly before she finally stopped.


    She was alive, she really was alive...


    ...


    It was deep night again.


    An ZhiXia had walked and crawled the entire day before arriving here.


    At Granny Zhou Po Zi''s house in Zhou Vige, the door was being knocked loudly.


    "A ghost!"


    Zhou Jianye, Granny Po Zi''s second son, went to open the door but was so frightened he wet himself, crawling back into the yard.


    After a while, An ZhiXia had washed the blood and dirt off her face. She now sat on a bench in the main hall of the Zhou residence.


    Facing her were all the Zhou family members, including her maternal grandmother Zhou Po Zi''s family. The people interrogating her were her two uncles, aunts, and cousins.


    "What evidence do you have to prove your words are true?" her eldest uncle Zhou Dong Lai looked at An ZhiXia withplicated emotions.


    It would shake any family if a girl suddenly barged in iming to be the real daughter of their sister, while the niece they had raised with their sister was not actually blood rted but had been switched at birth. Anyone would have a hard time calming down, just like him.


    The blood and grime on An ZhiXia''s face had been washed clean, but after years of abuse, the 18-year-old girl was petite with sallow skin, looking emaciated.


    However, herrge eyes were bright and piercing as she looked straight at them without the slightest timidity.


    "This face of mine should be the best proof."


    In her previous life drifting beside An Mei Yun, she had seen her birth mother Zhou Nan many times over those years. Her face was not just carved from the same mold as Zhou Nan, there was at least a 70-80% resemnce.


    Otherwise, the Gao family would not have been so afraid of her being recognized and kept her confined within the yard after she came of age, hastily marrying her off to the deep mountains and iming so to others.


    Blood rtion was the best evidence. An Mei Yun''s appearance also had a 30-40% resemnce to her birth mother, but the simrity was too distant for anyone to have noticed before.


    Although the Zhou family all wished she was lying, An ZhiXia knew her words had shaken them.


    They just found it hard to ept for the time being.


    Granny Zhou Po Zi let her stay at the Zhou residence for now. Whether her words were true or false still needed to be verified by people from her parents'' side. Only with their confirmation could it be settled.


    The two Zhou brothers had split households but still lived in the samepound. Granny Zhou Po Zi lived with her eldest son''s family.


    An ZhiXia was arranged to sleep with her cousin Zhou Zhi Zhi, the daughter of Eldest Uncle. Zhou Zhi Zhi stared at An ZhiXia curiously, "Are you really my auntie''s biological daughter? You''re not deceiving us, right?"


    An ZhiXia was utterly calm and simply asked her, "Do you think I look like your aunt?"


    "Yes, so alike, too alike!" Zhou Zhi Zhi resembled her Aunt Zhou Nan, but this resemnce paled inparison to An ZhiXia.


    Moreover, if not for An ZhiXia''s face that was too simr to her aunt''s, Zhou Zhi Zhipletely believed that An ZhiXia would have been driven away by Granny and Father when she first ran over spouting nonsense.


    In the main hall, Granny Zhou Po Zi''s old face was filled withplexity.


    Her younger son Zhou Xi Feng spoke up, "Mother, big brother, do we really have to believe that girl''s words?"


    Everyone knew that even if this was true, 18 years had passed, both children had grown up. Exposing this now would greatly impact both families.

 Chapter 3: Doubtful Point

    <h4>Chapter 3</h4>


    "I don''t want to believe it either, but that face, and the inadvertent expressions...they look too much like Nannan..." Zhou Granny recalled the year when her pregnant daughter, with a belly of seven months, came back to visit her because her father-inw had something to attend to and her son-inw could only go back early.


    Her daughter, who had stayed here for over a month in the winter, slipped and fell in the yard with her eight-month belly, going into prematurebor and giving birth to a pair of twins.


    Because of rural superstitions that a woman in confinement could not stay at her natal family, the delivery and postpartum care were done at the neighboring maternity center, which was the Zhou family''s old house. Granny Zhou was a widely known midwife, and after the family built a new house, they turned the old one into a maternity center.


    Some pregnant women, afraid of soiling the bedding by giving birth at home, would be sent over early to deliver here, and then taken back home after.


    On the day Granny''s daughter gave birth, there was also a pregnant woman surnamed Gao from neighboring Anle Vige who seemed to have also birthed a daughter.


    With the daughter-inw back at her natal family, it was just her and the eldest daughter-inw busy with things. People in the countryside preferred sons over daughters, so even if a switch were to happen, it should have been to switch the son. Who could have imagined someone switching away a baby girl!


    Granny Zhou could hardly imagine that if what the girl said was true, her daughter had doted on the enemy''s child as her own daughter for a whole 18 years, while her own daughter whom she had carried for over 8 months had endured torment in another family. How devastating the blow would be!


    And this had happened right under her nose. How could she still have the face to see her inws?


    "Eldest son, go into the city tomorrow, don''t tell your sister first, I''m afraid she can''t take it. Talk to your brother-inw clearly and have hime to get to the bottom of this. We''ll take it from there," said Granny Zhou.


    "Second son, don''t idle either. Go to Anle Vige tomorrow and ask carefully about the Gao family''s affairs. This is no small matter, you have to find out everything clearly and see just how the child has lived in the Gao family over the years..."


    The fact that Granny Zhou could say this showed that she had actually already believed An ZhiXia''s words.


    It was really that face that looked so much like her daughter''s when she was young. It was too credible.


    She only hoped it wasn''t true, but she really couldn''t deceive herself. This was very likely the truth.


    When one''s heart is full of doubt, there are actually many traces to follow.


    For example, when her daughter woke up andined that she had not taken as much care with the baby girl as with the boy, with the swaddling not straight and the girl''s legs curled up inside.


    But she clearly remembered that she had swaddled both babies herself, and done it very carefully.


    Or when she saw the baby''s face was bigger than right after birth. At the time she had thought it was her own mistake.


    After all, she had delivered two women in the same room. Her own daughter had also had a difficultbor. After the children were born, she had only taken a quick look before going to check on her daughter to make sure she was alright, then hurried to help the other woman deliver.


    By the time she was done, she was exhausted. The eldest daughter-inw was busy boiling water to clean up the postpartum filth, so she went out to wash off the blood on herself.


    If the babies had really been switched, it must have happened during this time.


    The more Granny Zhou thought about it, the more ufortable she felt, resenting herself for not paying more attention back then and at least leaving someone in the room to watch.


    "That''s right, Granny, I suddenly remembered something," Zheng Hong said in astonishment as she looked at Zhou Granny. "I remember our second sister''s baby girl had a red birthmark on her lower back when she was first born. Later when I looked, it was gone. I thought I had just been distracted at the time, so I never mentioned it. This..."


    "What?" Granny Zhou looked at Zheng Hong reproachfully. "You should have spoken up then. What a sin!"


    She knew in her heart, though, that even if it had been mentioned then, they might not have taken it to heart.


    Just as she said, others all treasured sons as the apples of their eyes. Who could have imagined someone switching away a baby girl!


    "I...I didn''t expect something like this to happen either," Zheng Hong also felt guilty, thinking of how good the young aunt had been to the family all these years. If it were confirmed that a baby swap had happened right under her nose and that her sister had raised someone else''s child while her own child endured torment since childhood in another family, she would resent herself to death.


    Seeing his own wife''s self-reproach and his mother''s resentment, Zhou Dong also understood that the me for this matter could not be ced entirely on his wife.


    They had all been home at the time, yet no one in the whole family had noticed anything either. So who were they to resent this person or that? The only ones to me were themselves.


    "Mother, now is not the time to worry about these things. You should hurry to find a way to see whether that girl really has a red birthmark on her lower back. Wouldn''t that make everything clear?"


    Everyone prayed in their hearts, hoping there was no such mark, that this was all a misunderstanding, that the younger sister had not raised someone else''s child by mistake and let her own child suffer torment since a young age.


    ...


    An ZhiXia was discussing with Zhou Zhi Zhi about borrowing a set of clothes from her to wear, so she could also wash herself up a bit.


    She had climbed over the mountain to escape and struggled with the old man, so her clothes were tattered and torn from her scrambling up and tumbling down the mountainside. She had even slept with a stranger midway, so the clothes she had on now were barely decent.


    And her hair was a tangled mess like a bird''s nest, with her skin scraped raw in ces by branches and rocks. She didn''t even have the face to lie on someone else''s clean bed in this state, for fear of soiling it.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi of course also knew An ZhiXia had to get cleaned up before she could sleep. She readily agreed and even brought her to the bathroom to wash her hair.


    But there were too many wounds on An ZhiXia''s body. Most on her arms were scratches from branches when she ran down the mountain. There were also bruised patches all over from her falls. Just looking made one wince.


    Whether or not she was her aunt''s daughter, a girl with so many injuries tugged at one''s heartstrings.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi was a kind girl herself, so she brought water to help An ZhiXia wash the unhurt parts of her body clean.


    An ZhiXia touched her dry, straw-like hair, much of which was matted into knots beyondbing even after washing.


    "Sister, I saw scissors in your room just now. Could I borrow them for a bit?"


    Zhou Zhi Zhi guessed An ZhiXia''s intent. Seeing her hair so tangled it couldn''t bebed smooth, she nodded. "Wait here, I''ll fetch them."


    When she brought the scissors back and saw An ZhiXia indicating she wanted to cut it very short, Zhou Zhi Zhi simply said, "It won''t look good if you cut it that short. Why don''t I trim it for you?"


    "Thank you...sister," An ZhiXia hesitated for a moment over how to address her.


    She didn''t know if she was older or younger than Zhou Zhi Zhi, but the other girl was slightly taller than her. In her malnourished state, she looked more childlike, so she settled for calling her "sister".

 Chapter 4: Space Emerges

    <h4>Chapter 4</h4>


    An ZhiXia''s cut hair reached her neck, originally yellowish and sparse, and after just being washed, it was wet and stuck to her scalp.


    She wore Zhou Zhi Zhi''s obviously oversized clothes, her frail body clearly unable to fill them out, looking somewhat ridiculous, but she no longer had the terrifying ghostly appearance from when she first arrived.


    She followed behind Zhou Zhi Zhi with her head lowered, her obedient appearance pitiful.


    Standing in the doorway watching this scene, Zhou Granny felt another pain in her heart.


    An ZhiXia suddenly turned her head, looking at Zhou Granny standing in the doorway, the girl''s wet eyes shone like stars, though she should have looked very pitiful, she still appeared strangely calm.


    "There is still red medicine at home, let me treat the wounds on your body." Zhou Granny forced herself to calm down, her voice somewhat cold.


    No matter how well this girl spoke, until the truth of the matter was confirmed, her granddaughter was still An MeiYun.


    "Thank you." An ZhiXia expressed her gratitude, also unsure how she should address the other party.


    After all, her identity had not yet been confirmed.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi smiled and took the red medicine from Zhou Granny''s hand, saying: "Granny, let me help her apply the medicine, it''s gettingte, you should go to sleep."


    "You''re just a child, how can you take care of someone, I''ll do it."


    Zhou Granny walked into Zhou Zhi Zhi��s room, watching them from inside the room.


    An ZhiXia walked in unabashedly, and Zhou Zhi Zhi also went in and closed the door.


    Under Zhou Granny''s gaze, An ZhiXia held out her scratched arms.


    The wounds on her arms had been wiped clean and were no longer so hideous, but after applying the red medicine, both arms were covered in crisscrossing red, making the hideous scars visible again.


    After the wounds on her arms were coated, Zhou Granny said, "Take off your clothes too, let me see if there are any other injuries on your body."


    "There are only some bruises on my body, they probably don''t need red medicine." An ZhiXia did not know Zhou Granny''s purpose, and replied.


    But Zhou Granny insisted, "Still, take them off and let me see, just in case there are serious injuries that need timely treatment."


    An ZhiXia hesitated for a moment, feeling that Zhou Granny had ulterior motives.


    But they were all women, she didn''t seem to need to be on guard.


    When she took off her clothes, Zhou Granny stared at the red spot in the middle of her lower back, covering her mouth to choke back tears.


    She stretched out her rough old hands and stroked from that red mole to the bruised area, her face full of distress that she could no longer conceal.


    An ZhiXia hadn''t noticed any movement from her for a while, and when she turned back to look, she heard Zhou Granny say in a muffled, nasal voice: "Okay, you can get dressed now."


    Before An ZhiXia had time to get fully dressed again, Zhou Granny had already hurried out.


    Hearing the door close, An ZhiXia btedly realized something.


    Pulling her clothes back and looking over her shoulder, she couldn''t even see her own back due to her line of sight.


    "Sister, can you help me see if there''s anything on my back?" An ZhiXia asked Zhou Zhi Zhi for help.


    "There''s a red mole, bright red, right here in this spot." Zhou Zhi Zhi took An ZhiXia''s hand and guided it to the location of the red mole on her lower back.


    That spot was right in the middle of her lower back on her spine, no wonder An ZhiXia had never known she had such a birthmark, it had never been noticed or mentioned in the Gao family.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi looked at An ZhiXiaplexly, saying: "Now I...believe a little more that what you said is true."


    She had seen her grandmother''s expression clearly just now, this mole was probably the best evidence.


    If she wasn''t her aunt''s daughter, how could her grandmother show that regretful and guilty expression after seeing this mole?


    An ZhiXia was still feeling the mole on her back, clearly able to feel a slightly raised spot.


    She smiled, it seemed the evidence to prove her identity had increased a bit, originally only able to rely on her face, and now there was also a mole.


    An ZhiXia had a thoughtful look, but as she touched the red mole, she received an earth-shattering realization.


    She was shocked still for a long time before suddenly turning around, "I...I''m going to the toilet."


    An ZhiXia hurriedly tidied her clothes and rushed out in a fluster.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi wondered at her hurrying back, was going to the toilet really that urgent?


    At this moment, An ZhiXia who had rushed into the toilet saw another world sh through her mind.


    The red mole on her back had actually fused with the meteor that chased her and be the carrier for her interspatial ring.


    In those years as a resentful ghost, An ZhiXia had seen far too many incredible things, and read many popr online novels decadester, so she knew what an interspatial ring was.


    Even aftering back, she had never imagined that she would have such good fortune.


    An ZhiXia focused her awareness, only to see blue skies and white clouds within the space, endless fields underfoot, nted with all kinds of crops, and in the distance a medicinal field full of exotic medicines.


    Ahead there was also an orchard, hung year-round with fruits, mountains, oceans, grasnds, rivers, like a small world.


    The only regret was that apart from the creatures in the river, there were no living things onnd, and time flowed very quickly in this world. So An ZhiXia only dared to probe it with her mind, not directly enter.


    From the inherited information she knew that the space was diverse, divided into three thousand major worlds and countless minor worlds, each world different, also in different spaces, but each different space may also have unintentional connections.


    Just as An ZhiXia''s rebirth, perhaps a point in a certain space had been pried open at a certain time, allowing her to return to the past from the future.


    An ZhiXia guessed it was thanks to that meteor.


    This was originally a small world that a powerful cultivator in the cultivation world had refined from a, originally nning to use it to nt spirit nts and raise spirit beasts. Unfortunately, a minor problem urred while refining the space, resulting in no spiritual energy within, so it was deemed useless and tossed into the sea of stars, drifting for who knows how many light years.


    Perhaps she and the small world were fated, and in that meteor shower, her resentful spirit was drawn to the small world, leading it to chase her and fuse into her body, bringing her back to the point before her wretched death.


    But in any case, this was absolutely,pletely beneficial for her, with no downsides.


    An ZhiXia smiled, for the first time feeling that she too was blessed by heaven.


    With a turn of her intent, a peach detached from the peach tree in the orchard and appeared out of thin air in An ZhiXia''s hand.


    After all, it came from the cultivation world, even without spiritual energy, the peach was stillrge and smooth, looking just like a celestial peach, very appetizing.


    She was just about to take a big crunchy bite, but suddenly remembered she was still in the toilet.


    It was the 1970s, the toilets were still squat toilets, and the Zhou family was quite meticulous, cing a pile of pot ash beside the toilet specifically to cover the filth, so the pit didn''t have many creatures inside.

 Chapter 5: Hope and Disappointment Are but a Moment.

    <h4>Chapter 5</h4>


    But the smell was still unpleasant. An ZhiXia looked at the peach in her hand that she almost bit into, and finally put it back into her space. She tidied up her mind and walked calmly out of the bathroom.


    The excessive fatigue of her body made An ZhiXia sleep very deeply. When she woke up, it was already noon the next day.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi was no longer in the room.


    When she walked out of the door, what she saw was Zhou Granny plucking chicken feathers in the yard.


    "You''re up?" Unlike yesterday''s coldness, Zhou Granny''s eyes were obviously full of distress when she looked at her, "You look severely malnourished, so we killed a chicken at home to make chicken soup at noon to nourish you."


    "Okay, thank you granny." An ZhiXia thought, they must have already gone to An Le Vige and inquired about her life over the years, so their attitude changed.


    Indeed, just as An ZhiXia had thought, as soon as Zhou XiFeng arrived in An Le Vige, he headed straight for the Gao Family. When he saw Li Xiu, the ringleader who had swapped the children, he realized that what An ZhiXia said was very likely to be true.


    The child at home looked seven or eight parts simr to his younger sister, while the woman in front of him also looked three or four parts simr to his niece, especially the eyes of the two. Compared alone, they were simply identical. It was unbelievable to say they were not mother and daughter.


    Then he inquired about the Gao Family''s situation and learned that the Gao Family had three children. Apart from the eldest being a son, the second and third were daughters.


    But the difference was that the older pair of children were doted on, while the youngest daughter Gao XiaoCao was indeed like a de of grass, unloved by her parents since she was a child. Especially in the past two years, she had been tortured when she was at home and not allowed to go out.


    It was said that this daughter was married off two days ago, but those with a heart knew that it was not a marriage but a sale.


    Otherwise, how could there be no wind before the people left, and only after they left did the word spread that she was married?


    Also, Gao''s second daughter was not yet married. How could it be the turn of the little daughter even if she married?


    After hearing this, there could be no doubt. They were clearly aware that she was not their own child, so of course she could notpare with the two biological ones upstairs. But to torture her like this and directly sell her was also too cruel.


    Zhou XiFeng felt very upset at that time.


    All the evidence and details told them that the two families had indeed swapped their children.


    Looking at the child''s physique at home, an 18-year-old girl was at the age as delicate as a flower, but this child was thin and small, with yellowed cheeks and no flesh. Her eyes looked bigger, which made people feel distressed.


    Zhou Granny had been crying for half a morning, and her eyes were still red now.


    Jincheng was not far from here either. An ZhiXia thought that her family woulde to pick her up in the afternoon.


    After all, it was about her own child, and they should be very cautious.


    But the reality was unexpected. An ZhiXia waited for three days but did not see the people she was waiting for.


    During these three days, Zhou''s family was very good to her. The elders were full of distress and guilt, while her cousins were also very caring of her.


    Her little cousin took her fishing when he went out.


    They used baskets to catch fish in the water. An ZhiXia squatted by the river and put her hand in the water. The fish in her space were put into the river in this world.


    Perhaps because they had never been caught in the space before, the grown fish were a little silly as well, so they were easy to catch. Her little cousin caught several big fish in a while, and others also caught some. They were discussing that the fish today were big and easy to catch.


    A familiar child came over and called out to them, "Sister Zhi Zhi, your uncle is here..."


    Because An ZhiXia''s biological father An JingZhi was a city man, Zhou Nuan was quite famous for marrying into the city as a rural woman.


    Hearing this call, the little cousin in the river told Zhou Zhi Zhi to take An ZhiXia back first.


    Walking into the Zhou''s house, An ZhiXia caught sight of the man in the hall at first nce.


    He was wearing a Zhongshan suit with a tall and slender figure, gentle and refined. He was her biological father An JingZhi.


    Beside him was a young man, also tall, but a little casual. An ZhiXia recognized him at a nce as her twin brother An ZhiAng.


    At this time, he was still an eighteen-year-old boy who lived under the shelter of his parents and elder brother, with no worries. He had a slightly rebellious temperament. Not like hister dispirited and gloomy look.


    In the moment their eyes met, An ZhiAng immediately felt a sense of intimacy emanating from the stranger girl. Perhaps this was the power of blood ties.


    "Are you really my sister? Hello, I''m your twin brother. My name is An ZhiAng. You can call me Fourth Brother." When An ZhiAng saw An ZhiXia, he subconsciously concealed his rogue temperament and stood upright like his father.


    An JingZhi was also shocked by An ZhiXia''s resemnce to his wife''s appearance. Afraid to frighten the girl in front of him, he softened his stern expression as much as possible, but still seemed a little uneasy, "You are... Little Cao, right? I am your father, An JingZhi."


    An ZhiXia had never introduced herself before, and Zhou''s family had been calling her Little Cao these past few days, probably following the Gao family.


    After all, the name An ZhiXia was given to her by An ZhiAng many yearster. It didn''t exist yet.


    "Do you believe me? Aren''t you afraid that I''m lying?" Although she knew that Zhou''s family would tell the truth, weren''t they too rash to ept it so readily?


    An JingZhi straightened up and saidplicatedly, "I''m very sorry it took three days toe get you. I...Dad has been investigating the dealings between MeiYun and the Gao family these past few days..."


    A few days ago, her uncle came and said that MeiYun had contacted the Gao family two years ago and had been trying to kill his own niece.


    Although these were all said by that child, he still investigated the truth very seriously.


    However, the truth was hard for him to ept. The child he had raised for so many years had indeed been in contact with the Gao family for two years. This result made him feel like aplete failure.


    "Dear, Dad has figured it out clearly. I will definitely make the Gao family pay the price for their actions. Your mother heard about the hardship you''ve suffered these years and she has fallen ill. She also hopes you can go back and give your parents a chance to make up for you. Okay?"


    An JingZhi knew that this might not be reasonable, but after raising her for so many years, the feelings could not disappear just like that, especially his wife''s side, she was truly heartbroken. After discussing it repeatedly, this was the only bad idea they coulde up with...


    An ZhiXia lowered her eyelids, and her pursed lips revealed her dissatisfaction and disappointment, "You can leave. I won''t disturb your family''s life in the future. Just pretend I never appeared."

 Chapter 6: By Blood

    <h4>Chapter 6</h4>


    She and An MeiYun could not possibly get along peacefully.


    After wandering as a lonely ghost for hundreds of years, she no longer cared as much about her initial hopes and longing for her loved ones.


    At the moment of rebirth when she regained life, the joy of having a second chance naturally made her want to reim all that was hers and make An MeiYun pay the price.


    But feelings required mutual effort, and one-sided obsession would only lead to self-harm.


    In this life, An ZhiXia wanted to be more selfish and live well.


    She also wanted to save the An family, after all, from the perspective of her previous life, they were victims like herself.


    But with life reset to a time before everything happened, An MeiYun was the one raised by them since childhood as their beloved daughter, while An ZhiXia did not feel she couldpare to An MeiYun''s position in their hearts.


    Just a few words were enough to make her go from full of anticipation to utterly disappointed.


    Seeing her speak so firmly, An JingZhi''s expression also showed some anxiety. "Little Grass, don''t rush to make a decision. Dad knows no matter what MeiYun''s original intentions were, the harm she caused you is irreversible. If you really cannot ept coexisting with her under one roof, our family can make other arrangements for her. Don''t reject us outright, okay?"


    This was the n An JingZhi had discussed with his wife.


    Although they wanted to keep both girls by their side, ultimately, the girl before them was their own flesh and blood. And due to their mistakes, she had suffered so these past years, so they should love and cherish her more out of both emotion and reason.


    As for MeiYun, they had raised her all these years and doted on her at home, so they had done right by her.


    He would also do his best to arrange things well for her and not let her suffer hardship.


    An ZhiXia understood they had raised An MeiYun for 18 years and invested a lot of feelings and effort that could not disappear in an instant.


    For An JingZhi to choose her and make An MeiYun leave the An family was already the biggestpromise he could make right now.


    An ZhiXia clenched her fists, seemingly deep in thought and struggle.


    An JingZhi did not rush her for an answer but waited patiently, though also feeling somewhat anxious.


    An ZhiXia lowered her head. Suddenly, she felt her wrist grabbed as An ZhiAng pulled her along out the door.


    At the entrance, they happened to run into little cousin carrying half a basket of fish, grinning happily with excitement.


    "ZhiAng you''re here? Are you taking little sister out?"


    An ZhiAng gave a quick reply and continued pulling An ZhiXia along.


    The midwifery next door to the Zhou house was now dpidated. The courtyard wall was propped up with several wooden sticks to prevent copse, andrge cracks ran along the house walls.


    "You brought me here, is it to persuade me topromise?" An ZhiXia looked up bewilderedly at the ruined house, imagining the scene of four babies being born here.


    This was the beginning of her life and tragedy, a scene both joyful and infuriating.


    "Of course not." An ZhiAng looked at An ZhiXia sympathetically. Perhaps due to being twins, from the first moment he saw her, he felt a strange sense of familiarity.


    It was a desire to get close to her yet also fear of frightening her with rashness, making him unconsciously exercise great care.


    An ZhiAng had never experienced this feeling before. Even previously when he thought An MeiYun was his twin, he never had any particr desire to get close to her. His only feeling toward her was that as the only girl in the family, he should indulge her a bit.


    But after meeting An ZhiXia, An ZhiAng finally understood the difference between feeling obligated to cherish someone and sincerely wanting to cherish someone.


    The former would make him feel frustrated while thetter was voluntary and came with a deep sense of happiness.


    "Little sister, when I first found out at home that someone had swapped my sister, I didn''t feel anything. Even on the way with Dad to pick you up, I didn''t think I would have any special feelings for you. After all, we had never met or spent time together. We were total strangers. But can you understand, from the moment I first saw you in the room, I desperately wanted to get close to you and give you the best of everything I have..." An ZhiAng didn''t know how to describe this feeling. He just felt so pleased with his sister no matter how he looked at her. Even her head of withered yellow hair just made his heart ache when he saw it.


    An MeiYun had enjoyed the family''s love and care growing up, with the best food, clothes, and education because she was the only girl. No one, young or old, did not indulge and dote on her.


    Yet the one who should have had all this suffered so much undeserved misery because of their family''s mistake and the Guo family''s sinister plot.


    In that moment, An ZhiAng suddenly felt immense dislike towards An MeiYun.


    "Little sister, I didn''t say all this today to demand anything of you. I just want you to know we are connected by blood and are true family. If you really dislike having An MeiYun in the house, go back and I''ll tell Mom. Eldest brother isn''t home right now, so I''ll get second and third brother toe speak together. We can''t let anyone bully my own sister anyway. If Mom still disagrees, I''ll take you to live with Grandpa and Grandma. Our old madam has never liked An MeiYun, saying she''s too scheming and not like our An family. Turns out she saw right through her. She really isn''t one of us. Old madam will definitely like you when she meets you. Although at first nce your face resembles Mom''s fiercely, do you know, your eyes look exactly like Grandma''s when she was young. I''ve seen Grandma''s old childhood photos..."


    An ZhiAng seemed unusually talkative today, not knowing what he should or shouldn''t say, so he just said everything.


    He could see the sh of disappointment in little sister''s eyes when Father said An MeiYun could stay.


    He was afraid she wouldn''t want toe back with them, afraid his dear sister would refuse to acknowledge him.


    After finishing, An ZhiAng looked to An ZhiXia but saw her gaze on him was wandering and distant.


    Anxiously frowning, he reflexively grabbed her arm. "Little sister, you don''t believe what I said?"


    "No, of course I believe Fourth Brother. It''s just that no one has ever cared about or loved me before in my life. My heart still can''t quite believe I also have family who love me."


    As An ZhiXia spoke, she pulled her arm back because An ZhiAng had grabbed her scarred injury.


    Although the wound had healed, being gripped still caused some pain.

 Chapter 7: Call on some Hands

    <h4>Chapter 7</h4>


    An ZhiAng naturally noticed her evasive movement, his eyes sank, and he pulled her hand over, carefully helped roll up her sleeve, and saw the criss-crossing scars under her sleeves, some were new and some were flesh-colored scars that had already healed but left behind.


    He stretched out his fingers and touched them distressedly, and asked in a low voice, "Does it hurt?"


    He was the most mischievous child in the family. Although he had been beaten many times when he was young, he had never been beaten like this with scars all over his body. It was not difficult to imagine how serious the beatings were at that time.


    "It doesn''t hurt anymore." An ZhiXia calmly retracted her hand and covered her arm with her sleeve again.


    Her soul had wandered for 100 years. When she returned to the age of 18 when she was still alive, apart from those particrly deep memories in her heart, she had actually forgotten many things.


    But she still vaguely remembered that although she had to do a lot of work when she was a child, she was not often beaten. It was only in thest two years, after An MeiYun was reborn, that the Gao couple was afraid of the truth being revealed and hated that they couldn''t kill her every day, so they tortured and humiliated her in every possible way.


    An ZhiXia was immersed in the past events and was unable to recover for a long time. This expression fell in An ZhiAng''s eyes, which made him feel extremely distressed.


    Pulling An ZhiXia out, An ZhiAng gritted his teeth and said, "Little sister, don''t be afraid. Your brother will cherish you in the future. No one will bully you again. Brother will take you to take revenge now and let those bastards see that anyone who bullies my sister An ZhiAng will know today how many eyes Ma Wang has."


    An ZhiAng was very tall. Although they were the same age, born only a few minutes apart, she only reached his chest.


    Especially with this fierce look at the moment, it actually made An ZhiXia feel very safe.


    An ZhiXia still remembered that in her previous life, after the downfall of the An family, he was framed by An MeiYun and sentenced to ten years ofbor reform. When he came out after ten years, although he was only thirty years old, he was as deste as an old man with a flickering life.


    Later, after years of running around, he finally found out the truth about what happened to his family. By then, An MeiYun was already married with children, and her husband''s family was very powerful, while An ZhiAng was just abor camp inmate who had just been released from prison, and had no ability to fight against An MeiYun at all.


    Unsurprisingly, An ZhiAng, the only survivor of the An family, was also destroyed at An MeiYun''s hands, and from then on there was no one left of the An family in this world.


    "Brother Jianwen... Brother Jianye..."


    An ZhiXia, who was immersed in her thoughts, was called back to her senses by An ZhiAng calling her name. She saw Zhou Jianwen and Zhou Jianyeing out from the yard, "ZhiAng, what''s up?"


    Zhou Jianye had just washed up and changed his clothes after catching fish. His hair was still wet and stered to his forehead.


    "You two help me gather some men. I''m going to the Gao house to avenge my sister."


    With just one sentence from An ZhiAng, Zhou Jianwen and Zhou Jianye didn''t try to dissuade him at all, and immediately went to call people.


    They were all teenage boys, and didn''t have as many concerns as the elders. Especially after knowing that the Gao family had actually swapped his cousin, if it wasn''t for the elders saying they should wait for his uncle toe back before making ns, they would have rushed to the door long ago.


    Now with An ZhiAng taking the lead, none of the brothers thought it was asking for trouble.


    The Zhou family was a big family in Zhou Vige, and most of the vigers were surnamed Zhou. With just one shout from the two brothers, all the teenage boys were mobilized. Dozens of them, some carrying hoes, some holding sticks, standing together was an intimidating sight.


    Especially after hearing about the Gao family''s despicable act of swapping babies, even though Zhou Nan had married out, her child was still considered half of their Zhou family''s descendant. To dare to do this right under their nose was undoubtedly courting death.


    An ZhiAng asked Zhou Jianwen if his family had an iron basin. As soon as Zhou Jianwen heard this, he immediately understood his intention. His eyes lit up instantly and he grunted in agreement before running back home.


    When he came back out, he was holding a basin in one hand and a rolling pin in the other. He also experimentally knocked it and it made a bang sound.


    "ZhiAng, what do you think?"


    An ZhiAng was naturally very satisfied. He said, "Brother Jianwen, keep knocking this all the way and shouting. I want everyone to know about the shameful things the Gao family has done. Let''s go take revenge first. Remember everyone, once we get to the Gao house, feel free to beat and smash as you like. As long as no one is killed, I''ll take care of the aftermath. Besides, we already talked to the little generals in town before we came. We have to make this quick. They''lleter to continue the fight. The Gao family dared to touch my sister An ZhiAng. I''m going to make sure their whole family doesn''t get to live in peace for the next half of their lives."


    At this time, although the influence of the little generals was not as great as in previous years due to the sent-down youth policy, it was still enough to intimidate people, especially for thosebeled as bad elements.


    The Gao family had very good family background, werew-abiding citizens for generations, and eight generations of poor farmers. But doing such a shameful thing as baby swapping cannot cover up their ck hearts no matter how red their roots were.


    An ZhiAng walked in front pulling An ZhiXia, followed by Zhou Jianwen banging the basin and shouting, recounting the Gao family''s malicious deeds. Behind them were dozens of teenage boys from the Zhou n in Zhou Vige, holding hoes and sticks, looking very imposing.


    Zhou Vige and An Le Vige were neighboring viges, separated only by two ponds and a bamboo forest.


    Before they even reached An Le Vige, the news had already spread there.


    Gao Dazhuang stood in the yard with a gloomy look on his face, ncing outside from time to time. It was not difficult to see the trace of fear hidden deep in his eyes.


    Li Xiu kept pacing back and forth in front of him, murmuring, "What to do, what to do? How can this be? It''s all because of that dead girl Xiao Cao. How did she know she wasn''t our own? And how did she not get beaten to death? That bald Li couldn''t even keep an eye on a little girl and let her run back here to threaten us... "


    Gao Dazhuang was dizzy from her pacing around. He gently snapped, "Can you stop pacing around? What''s the use of saying all this now? We need to think of a way to get out of this first."


    "As if I don''t know that? But what else can we do?" Li Xiu whimpered, then suddenly her eyes lit up and said, "Master, let''s go find MeiYun!"


    At that time, the reason they swapped babies was to let the child have a better life, and their whole family relied on the child having a better life.


    In recent years, ever since they got in touch with the child, their family life had indeed improved a lot.


    And now, it was time they needed her help more than ever.

 Chapter 8: Do It Right, Leave No Chance.

    <h4>Chapter 8</h4>


    When this matter came out, American Cloud''s days were probably not easy either. We''d better not make things difficult for her if we can help it. There are also Dalin and Ermei, those two children to consider. We have to leave ourselves a way out and can''t put the whole family at stake, right?"


    Gao Dazhuang said, ncing around, then looking at Li Xiu: "Wife, we''ve lived this life, scheming time and again, just for the sake of the children, right?"


    Li Xiu shivered looking into his eyes. Her endless prattle also stopped for a moment as she fell silent.


    After decades together, they understood each other well enough.


    "You''re right. It''s all for the children. Let''s not beat around the bush about what you''re thinking. Just say it directly," Li Xiu said. Somewhat dispirited, she sat down on the doorsill.


    Gao Dazhuang didn''t have the heart to say it inly, but still he said: "The only thing to me is that you and American Cloud look too much alike. That wretched girl also looks just like her birth mother. Anyone with eyes can see it, and we can''t deny it. Things being what they are, we can only own up to it. Otherwise if they really get to the bottom of it, I''m afraid our whole family will..."


    Gao Dazhuang didn''t have the heart to finish that sentence, but his meaning was obvious.


    The two of them, husband and wife, had to have one person take the me. Gao Dazhuang was the pir of the family so it could only be Li Xiu who would own up to it.


    Li Xiu was silent for a long time before Gao Dazhuang calmly waited for her response.


    Until the sound of an iron bucket being struck could be heard in the distance, along with those muffled shouts, did Li Xiu find her voice again, stammering: "For the children, I''ll take the me. But you have to promise me that from now on you won''t go looking for other women anymore. You can''t wrong Dalin and Ermei, and our family''s assets have to be left to Dalin."


    Gao Dalin and Gao Ermei were their eldest son and second daughter, the children Li Xiu treasured most.


    Although she was most proud of An American Cloud in her heart, after all she wasn''t a child raised by her side. Compared to affection, she of course could notpare to these two children.


    Otherwise, her first reaction would not have been to go to An American Cloud for help. If it were Gao Dalin and Gao Ermei, she probably would have only thought of a way for them to get off free.


    Hearing Li Xiu''s demands, Gao Dazhuang breathed a sigh of relief and said, "You''re really worrying over nothing. I''m already so old, a man already in his forties. What do I want another woman for? And Dalin, he''s my Gao Dazhuang''s only son. Who else could I leave our family assets to other than him?"


    "I believe you," Li Xiu sighed, but in her heart she understood that men''s words were the most unreliable thing in the world.


    There was another saying: Once there''s a new wife, there''s a new father.


    Gao Dazhuang made himself sound old, but he was still only in his early forties. For now she could keep him in line, but once she was gone, who knew if he would be seduced away by some young widow!


    By then, with just a whisper in his ear, how could he still remember her, the old yellow-faced woman who had given him children and taken the me for him?


    But now, for the children, she had no choice but to own up to it.


    When An ZhiAng led An ZhiXia and the group of people behind him to the Gao family, the Gao family''s front gate was shut tight, surrounded by a circle of people. Some were even climbing the wall to get a better view.


    Perhaps they also held a grudge against the Gao family. The opportunistic fellow peeking over the wall called out when he saw An ZhiXia and the others: "You all are the ones here to the Gao family for revenge, right? That bastard Gao Dazhuang is beating his wife in the courtyard!"


    An ZhiAng and An ZhiXia exchanged a nce, suddenly unclear about the situation.


    But in an instant, An ZhiXia understood the key point. "Brother, they must have already agreed to have one person take the me so the rest can get off free."


    An ZhiAng was no fool either, and suddenly regretted making such a big fuss just now. On the contrary, it had given them a chance to coordinate their response.


    "Nevermind, we''ll sort it out after beating them up first."


    An ZhiAng gave Zhou Jianye a few instructions, then kicked open the Gao family''s front gate.


    Zhou Jianye already understood and didn''t give Gao Dazhuang a chance to argue. He shouted as he charged inside: "Brothers, beat this shameless bastard to death! Let''s see if his rotten family dares to do shameful things again after this..."


    Before Gao Dazhuang could react, the hoe in Zhou Jianye''s hand had already struck his knee with a loud bang, making the onlookers on the wall shudder involuntarily.


    "Murder! Help!"


    Seeing the situation, Li Xiu screamed even more shrilly than when she had been beaten herself.


    But she didn''t run away either. She was struck by those behind her and scrambled around wildly until she fell to the ground with painful moans.


    The others showed no mercy, rushing into the kitchen and main room. Sounds of smashing and banging followed as bowls were broken, cabs smashed, clothes and quilts torn and strewn across the floor. Even the curtains hanging from the ceiling beams were ripped down.


    After a chaotic rampage of smashing and banging, An ZhiAng watched the entire time withoutying a hand himself. Yet he didn''t give Gao Dazhuang and Li Xiu a moment''s respite.


    Seeing that the two had been beaten enough, An ZhiAng shouted for the others to stop. Carrying the food they had taken from the Gao home, they left, while those with a keen eye ran to the chicken coops to catch chickens. Even the half-grown fat pig in the pigpen wasn''t spared.


    An ZhiAng and An ZhiXia brought up the rear as they left, shouting: "You Gao family sure know how to scheme, switching your own daughter for my little sister in the An family to raise her infort for 18 years, while my sister suffered untold hardships in your home. Consider the things we''re taking today as payment for the food you owe our family after so many years of raising your daughter. Although it''s far from enough, I hope you can conduct yourselves properly from now on under the Great Leader''s guidance and be good people. Don''t be ck-hearted monsters anymore."


    These seemingly well-meaning words even provided a usible justification for taking their things. It left the Gao couple unable to refute them at all.


    Let alone Gao Dazhuang and Li Xiu whose bodies were covered in injuries from the beating and didn''t have a single unharmed ce. Blood bubbled from their mouths so they couldn''t even speak a word.


    It wasn''t until An ZhiAng and An ZhiXia left that Gao Dazhuang had a chance to defend himself at all. Naturally, there was no question of one person taking the me.


    The crowd ahead marched mightily, herding a half-grown fat pig, others carrying chickens and ducks, hauling grain. Clearly stolen goods, yet it made An ZhiXiaugh with delight.


    She didn''t think there was anything wrong about it. When she had been at the Gao family, the Gao couple didn''t allow her to go out, yet there was no shortage of work around the house for her - washing, cooking, feeding chickens and pigs. It could be said the chickens, ducks and pigs were all tended by her alone. The slightest mistake would result in her being beaten and scolded.

 Chapter 9: Won鈥檛 Get Caught

    <h4>Chapter 9</h4>


    Seeing that a smile had finally appeared on her face instead of the cold expression when they first met, An ZhiAng also smiled and said, "Little sister, are you happy now?"


    "Of course I''m happy, brother. You''re so kind." An ZhiXia nodded vigorously, and then looked somewhat sad again. "But is it really okay for us to do this? Won''t we get in trouble?"


    It was still a sensitive time, and even a little carelessness could bring disaster to the whole family.


    But An ZhiAng was very confident. "Don''t worry, when brother takes care of things, no one will be able to catch me by my pigtail. Although we just taught that malicious couple a lesson, we didn''t listen to their exnation. In the future, we can''t keep them from speaking indefinitely. If it really is as we imagined, that they want to push someone out to take the me, I''m afraid they won''t be able to move their whole family."


    Although an individual''s wrongdoing implicated the whole family, as long as outsiders hardened their hearts and cut ties, the policy would not exterminate them.


    The smile on An ZhiXia''s face stiffened for a moment, obviously unwilling.


    But in a sh, she thought of something from her previous life that she had learned with An MeiYun several decadester.


    The sturdy husband and wife who could carry out the baby swap were not simple characters all along. 20 years ago, duringnd reform, Gao Dazhuang had already skimmed off a lot of wealth on the sly, but those things could not see the light of day now and were hidden away.


    Gao Dazhuang was also capable of hiding things. It wasn''t until his old age in An ZhiXia''s previous life that he took out those things and divided the spoils among the three Gao siblings. By then, it was several decadester when those things were valuable. An MeiYun was already wealthy enough by then, so she only took some antiques and collectibles.


    But An ZhiXia did not know where those things were hidden, because the division happened when the Gaos'' mud house had been rebuilt into a three-story townhouse.


    An ZhiXia furrowed her brows, carefully thinking about where Gao Dazhuang would have hidden those things at this time.


    He definitely wouldn''t hide them too far, as that stingy and greedy man wouldn''t feel assured with them too far away.


    The memories from back then were just too distant, and many details had be blurred and unclear. She really could not recall the location at the moment.


    An ZhiAng thought that she was remaining silent because she could not bear for the entire Gao family to suffer the consequences. He hurriedly reassured her, "Little sister, don''t be upset. Even if we let Gao Dazhuang avoid me for now, your fourth brother will make sure he lives a fate worse than death in the second half of his life to atone for you. Do you believe your fourth brother will do that for you?"


    "Yes, thank you, fourth brother." An ZhiXia was naturally moved. Perhaps it was because they were twins, but she felt a special closeness with An ZhiAng to begin with.


    Additionally, there were the memories from her previous life, where he had erected a memorial grave for her, changed her name, and told her that if she had the chance to be reborn as his sister again, he would never lose her and would cherish and protect her well.


    For a moment, the atmosphere was somewhat depressed as An ZhiAng''s mind raced to think of how to retaliate against the Gaos.


    Suddenly, a sh of insight lit up An ZhiXia''s mind, reminding her of an important memory.


    When she was about fifteen or sixteen, while cooking in the kitchen, she had watched a big rat crawl into the hole in the wall behind the stove.


    She had cleared the area around it and lit a fire, trying to smoke the rat out of the hole, but Gao Dazhuang happened to return right then.


    At the time, he had looked flustered. Not only did he stop her actions, but he had also beaten her severely with a willow switch.


    That was the first time she had been beaten so badly for no apparent reason, so the memory was deeply imprinted.


    After that, even if rats crawled at her feet, she didn''t dare catch them.


    That area behind the stove was piled high with firewood all year round, even during the holidays, so it was unlikely anyone would think to look for things there.


    No wonder Gao Dazhuang was able to keep those things hidden for decades without anyone finding them.


    "Brother, I know how we can make the entire Gao family suffer misfortune for generations toe..."


    An ZhiXia''s small face was sallow and emaciated, but her eyes were exceptionallyrge and bright. At this moment, as she spoke, her eyes seemed to glitter like stars.


    After listening to An ZhiXia''s words, An ZhiAng''s brows were tightly knitted. "Little sister, can you be sure?"


    If it was true, Gao Dazhuang really had guts.


    Then again, if hecked guts, how could he have done something as despicable as swapping his own sister?


    An ZhiXia nodded firmly. Just then, a group of over ten people rode up to them on bicycles.


    "Brother An ZhiAng, have you already gone to get revenge?"


    The one leading them was Liu Jun. Because he was under the age limit for being sent down to the countryside, he led a group of simrly undersized rascals to swagger through the streets.


    An ZhiAng had mixed with them for a period of time before and was even one of the top dogs. Butter his father An JingZhi and eldest brother An ZhiQing had hung him from a tree and given him a severe thrashing that nearly shredded his belt. After that lesson, he obediently stayed home.


    Moreover, he was not exactly young anymore. He had already graduated in the first half of the year and was idle at home. His family was recently debating whether to arrange a job for him or send him down to the countryside.


    An ZhiAng had notified Liu Jun beforehand. He never intended to conceal the fact that An MeiYun was not a blood rtion of the An family.


    Seeing Liu Jun bring people over now, he quickly went up to greet them and deftly handed out cigarettes to establish rapport with the influential members of the group.


    Liu Jun''s followers ranged from his age in their mid tote teens down to around twelve or thirteen years old.


    An ZhiAng told him about going to the Gaos for revenge, and also pulled him aside and whispered in his ear. Liu Jun''s eyes shone brightly when he came back, and his mouth was practically split to his earlobes.


    If the matter was genuine, and they uncovered inappropriate items while searching the Gaos'' home, it would be a great achievement.


    Since he was leading this endeavor, he might even make the newspapers as amended figure!


    Liu Jun dreamed about this as he solemnly promised An ZhiAng that he would properly teach the Gao family a lesson and lead them to ideologically transform themselves into good people.


    An ZhiAng expressed his satisfaction and thanked him, even giving Liu Jun two chickens from the spoils. "We''re brothers, so I won''t bother with too many words of gratitude. This is thepensation the Gaos just gave us for raising their daughter all these years. You all came a long way, so have these two chickens for refreshments along the journey."


    Liu Jun did not stand on ceremony and epted the chickens. He took some rope from his pocket and skillfully tied their legs before hanging them from the front rack of the bike.


    In fact, when they were in the city, they were no strangers to stealing chickens and eggs from people''s homes. Due to their notoriety, no one dared to look for trouble as long as they weren''t caught red-handed.


    It was precisely because of this that the young punks were arrogant and unruly. This was why An ZhiAng had been punished so harshly by his family when he was running with them before being forced into disciplinary detention.


    However, he handled things well and didn''t leave anyone disgruntled after leaving the group. On the contrary, he maintained the rtionships quite smoothly, and could still call on them for help when needed.

 Chapter 10: I do not know the heat, But Cherish the summer Long.

    <h4>Chapter 10</h4>


    An ZhiAng returned triumphantly with his men, while Liu Jun led his own group to raid the Gao family.


    They were both straightforward individuals.


    Their methods of operation revealed that Liu Jun had worked alongside An ZhiAng before.


    As soon as they entered, they immediately used the Gao couple, unjustlybeling them. Following An ZhiAng''s instructions, Liu Jun and his men dug up the Gao family''s kitchen and unearthed arge box from beneath the stove.


    Liu Jun was highly experienced and eagerly prepared for a fight, engaging in a fierce confrontation on the spot.


    When An ZhiXia and An ZhiAng returned to the Zhou family, it happened to be mealtime.


    The half-grown pig brought back from the Gao family was ced in the Zhou family''s pigsty, while the chickens and ducks had their legs bound and were ced nearby.


    An ZhiAng graciously thanked the people who had apanied him and generously announced that the small pig from the Gao family would be ughtered in the afternoon and shared among everyone. He didn''t want others to have made the trip in vain.


    There was no room for criticism in terms of interpersonal rtionships.


    After all, it wasn''t their own belongings being distributed, so they didn''t mind sharing.


    Zhou Granny couldn''t help but express her concern, saying it was a pity that the piglet hadn''t fully grown yet, but she didn''t reject An ZhiAng''s words due to her seniority.


    After returning from seeking revenge on the Gao family, An ZhiXia''s mood noticeably improved. It was as if she had forgotten An JingZhi''s suggestion to keep An MeiYun behind. She didn''t refuse when food was served to her at the dinner table, and she even smiled at him.


    An JingZhi also breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that after thismotion, the resentment in the child''s heart had dissipated.


    It wasn''t surprising that An ZhiXia had a forgetful nature. In her previous life, she had quite an appetite for good food. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have followed the young chef to the mountains to watch the meteor shower.


    It was a pity that she could see but not taste back then. In these past few days since her rebirth, she had only managed to ughter a chicken. However, with therge number of people in the Zhou family, there wasn''t much meat from a single chicken, and An ZhiXia didn''t want to eat alone.


    The meals at the Zhou family had been mediocre these past couple of days, with insipid clear soups and little to savor. But today was different, perhaps due to the arrival of An JingZhi and his son, or maybe because Zhou Nan had caught several big fish. Finally, the lunch had some taste and vor.


    Although Aunt Zhou''s culinary skills were nothing special, the deep-fried fish pieces were incredibly fragrant, as was the stir-fried salted pork with chili.


    Even today''s staple food was no longer the coarse ck bread mixed with bran that was hard and scratchy on the throat. Instead, it was delicious threebination steamed buns.


    Of course, they couldn''tpare to the soft and fluffy white steamed buns of the future, but for this era, they were considered fine grains and had a satisfying chewiness.


    After finishing their meal in the Zhou family''s courtyard, Zhou Nan vividly described the process of seeking revenge on the Gao family,bining words with gestures. His eloquence and humorous antics perfectly imitated the cowering appearance of the Gao couple, eliciting a sense of satisfaction from the listeners.


    An ZhiXia sat on a small stool behind him, her face filled withughter. An ZhiAng stood beside her and asionally moved forward to cooperate with Zhou Nan, eliciting heartyughter from everyone.


    An JingZhi watched his daughter with a tender expression and gently touched her hair.


    The marriage between him and Zhou Nan was arranged while the old master was still alive, and it could be considered a marriage of convenience. However, Zhou Nan devoted herself to taking care of the family and their children after marriage, which he appreciated. Over time, their rtionship as husband and wife became harmonious.


    Especially after giving birth to three sons and a pair of twins, Zhou Nan earned the satisfaction and approval of the old master. He would even smile when he visited and expressed that he had no regrets.


    However, it was the year 1952, a period of turmoil. Although the An family wasn''tndowners, their ancestors were from a schrly background, and the family had enjoyed a glorious past.


    During that time, they faced the passing of the old master. After handling the funeral arrangements, in order to prevent any mishaps, they had to temporarily send Zhou Nan back to her family''s home. Unexpectedly, she went into prematurebor and a baby-switching incident urred.


    An JingZhi couldn''t me the Zhou family for not taking better care of her. After all, at that time, the Zhou family hadn''t clearly defined their boundaries with him, so it was already kind of them to ept Zhou Nan.


    Over the years, An JingZhi always remembered this situation. Therefore, he was always willing to help the Zhou family and take care of their needs.


    Recalling that time, An JingZhi was filled with emotion. He hadn''t even heard when Zhou Granny called him.


    It was An ZhiAng who patted his arm and reminded him, "Dad, Granny is calling you."


    An JingZhi hurriedly went to see Zhou Granny. She asked him to bring back two fish because Zhou JianYe had caught severalrge ones, and they couldn''t finish them all at home.


    An JingZhi nodded. He was in a rush and hadn''t brought a gift, so he nned to leave some money for the elderly womanter, as a token of filial piety.


    "Dad, what are you thinking? You''ve been standing there in a daze," An ZhiAng asked him.


    "I was thinking..." An JingZhi lowered his head to look at An ZhiXia. "Xiao Cao, let Dad give you a new name."


    This child was born to him and Zhou Nan after they had hoped for a daughter. After all, they already had three sons, so she should be the precious one in the family. How could she be referred to as "grass"?


    "Okay," An ZhiXia nodded. She also didn''t like the name Xiao Cao, but she didn''t know what name An JingZhi would choose for her.


    Honestly, she quite liked the name her fourth brother had given her.


    Full of energy, not fearing the heat, cherishing the long summer days. This was the best hope and blessing her brother had for her, with the meaning of being cheerful, intelligent, and beautiful.


    "Let''s call her MeiXia, like the beautiful and colorful sunset clouds, full of vitality," An JingZhi exined the meaning of MeiXia, but it still made An ZhiXia''s face turn sour.


    Although An ZhiXia wasn''t included in the family hierarchy, it was obvious that this name was following the naming pattern of An MeiYun.


    An JingZhi also wanted to improve the rtionship between the two daughters as much as possible, but he didn''t expect her to react so poorly. She tightly clenched her fingers, her face turned pale, and her eyes revealed stubbornness and unwillingness.


    An JingZhi immediately noticed her displeasure and was about to change his words when he saw An ZhiAng grabbing An ZhiXia''s hand and retorting, "Why call her MeiXia? It sounds unpleasant and tacky. Little sister, let''s listen to Fourth Brother. Whoever wants to call her can go ahead."


    An ZhiXia took the opportunity and said, "Then, Fourth Brother, please give me a nice name."


    "Alright, Fourth Brother will give you a name. Let''s not listen to Dad. I think he''s getting old and his mind isn''t working well. Whatever name hees up with, it sounds awful," An ZhiAng said.


    An ZhiAng couldn''t help but live up to his reputation as the person who almost had his belt snapped in half. He even dared to disdain his own father, leaving him no face at all.


    As he spoke, An JingZhi only nced at him, signaling him to tone it down and see what profound name this most disobedient son coulde up with.


    "Though unaware of the scorching heat, I cherish the long summer days. How about calling her ZhiXia?" An ZhiAng looked at his obedient little sister like a precious treasure and said, "I hope my sister will be warm, cheerful, intelligent, and beautiful in the future. Do you like it?"


    An ZhiXia hurriedly nodded. "It sounds lovely, and I really like it. Thank you, Fourth Brother."


    An ZhiAng then provocatively nced at An JingZhi, making An JingZhi feel uneasy.


    If he had known earlier, he wouldn''t have brought him along. Knowing well that this child now had a strong aversion to MeiYun, not only did he not help reconcile them, but he also stirred up trouble.

 Chapter 11: Big Boy Gets Carsick.

    <h4>Chapter 11</h4>


    Moreover, An JingZhi realized sensitively that he had never heard his daughter call him "Dad" until now, while that brat, his fourth brother, didn''t hesitate to respond.


    As they were about to leave, An ZhiXia''s heart was pounding, feeling like she had forgotten something.


    But try as she might, she couldn''t remember.


    She impatiently tapped her little head. It had been too long, and she had truly forgotten many things.


    An ZhiAng quickly asked her, "What''s wrong? Do you have a headache?"


    ording to Grandma, on the day when An ZhiXia found her, she was all bruised and even rolled down the mountain.


    An JingZhi also looked at An ZhiXia with concern, and she replied, "It''s nothing. I just feel like I forgot something, but I can''t recall it."


    Finally, An JingZhi found an opportunity to interrupt, saying, "If you can''t remember, don''t dwell on it. When we get home, if there''s anything you need, Mom and Dad will get it for you."


    "Okay," An ZhiXia nodded.


    Zhou Granny tied the two fish and the two chickens and ducks they caught from the Gao family to the carriage shaft. An ZhiXia was closer to An JingZhi, and just as she was about to get on the carriage, An ZhiAng said, "ZhiXia, ride in Fourth Brother''s car. He''ll take you."


    An ZhiXia happily went over, while An JingZhi''s face darkened, displeased as he looked at An ZhiAng.


    But no matter what, he couldn''t bring himself to make a fuss and snatch someone like An ZhiAng did.


    "ZhiXia, hold on tight. Let''s go..."


    An ZhiAng kicked the car wheel hard, and the wheels started spinning fast. An JingZhi quickly bid farewell to the Zhou family and caught up.


    An ZhiAng, being young and strong, rode the carriage quickly. The cool breeze blew on their faces, and An ZhiXia was so scared that she could only hold onto his clothes tightly, but she also felt thrilled and happy.


    It was a feeling she could never experience before, no matter how fast she flew. Back then, she had no sense of touch and couldn''te into contact with things.


    An JingZhi originally wanted to shout at them to slow down, but when he heard An ZhiXia''sughter like silver bells, he kept quiet.


    Forget it, as long as the child is happy, let this brat be unruly for once. He didn''t care anymore.


    An ZhiXia suddenly regained her rity of mind, "Fourth Brother, I remembered what I forgot."


    "What is it?"


    "I still owe ZhiZhi a piece of clothing. My clothes got torn when I rolled down the mountain, so I borrowed ZhiZhi''s clothes to wear." She didn''t have any clothes of her own; she was wearing patched and worn-out ones. She mended them herself as best she could.


    No wonder that day, the man had a look of disbelief when he saw her.


    An ZhiXia often thought of that man and felt quite sorry for him. Although hisplexion was dark, under the moonlight, his features and face shape were quite good.


    And his chest was covered in blood, clearly injured.


    It was just her bad luck to encounter him in that state and be taken advantage of.


    When An ZhiXia rolled down the slope that day, she woke up when it was already bright outside. In her haste to return, she didn''t check if he had been rescued or if he was still alive.


    She hoped he would be safe and sound and not me her for not controlling herself and sleeping with him.


    "Just a piece of clothing, I''ll have Mom make her a new one when we get back." An ZhiAng nced back, finding it hard to imagine the state his sister must have been in when she was chased down the mountain and woke up with the determination to find her way back. How desperate she must have felt.


    If only he hade to pick her up and bring her home instead of waiting to investigate some damn truth.


    Is there any truth better than blood connection?


    She was his own sister, the sister he had spent eight months with in their mother''s womb. The moment heid eyes on her, he felt a sense of closeness that waspletely different from his feelings towards An MeiYun.


    Even though they both had the same expression of grievance, he could only feel impatience towards An MeiYun, while with his sister, it was genuine concern. He wished he could do everything to make her happy.


    Of course, there were differences too. An MeiYun''s grievances were mostly fake, but his sister had truly suffered for so many years.


    "ZhiXia, when we get home, Fourth Brother will take you to buy new clothes, lots and lots of them..." An ZhiAng said these words without realizing that he himself was still relying on the family for support.


    "Okay."


    ZhiXia''s consciousness was brought back by him, and she smiled gently, her lips curling up.


    If possible, she wanted to see that man just once, not because she had any other thoughts, but because she wanted to make sure he was safe. He was already seriously injured, and she didn''t want him to lose his life because of her.


    "Thank you, Fourth Brother, you''re really kind." She had said this many times today, but besides these words, she truly didn''t know how to express her current feelings.


    "ZhiXia, don''t be so polite with Fourth Brother. You should know that you are my sister, the treasure of our family. It was our carelessness that caused us to lose you before, but now that we''ve found you, we should cherish you like a precious gem. Just enjoy the love we have for you."


    If someone else said these words, she might still hesitate, but towards An ZhiAng, it might be the bond of blood from being twins, or perhaps it was the deep memories from their past lives. In any case, she felt that she could trust him.


    They rode their bikes to the town first, then they had to transfer and take a bus for over an hour to reach the city. Of course, they could also ride their bikes the whole way, but they would probably arrive home when it was already dark.


    In the afternoon, there weren''t many people entering the city, so they easily pushed their bikes onto the bus, without the morning''s crowded scene.


    The three of them, An JingZhi gave the ticket collector three cents for the fare, then came over and sat next to An ZhiXia, while An ZhiAng sat on her other side.


    "ZhiXia, since we have some time now, let Dad tell you about our family''s situation, okay?"


    An JingZhi''s words brought An ZhiXia''s attention back, and she nodded. "Okay, I''ve heard a bit from ZhiZhi Sister these past few days, but not too much."


    "Our family consists of me, your mother, and your four older brothers. Your grandparents are in good health, although your grandfather prefers a quiet life and doesn''t live with us. Your eldest brother is married, but he''s in the military, so he can onlye home a couple of times a year. His wife''s name is Liu Ling, and she works at the same school as your father. You also have a little nephew named Wen Qing, who is only two years old. As for your second brother, he is also a teacher at a school, and your third brother started working at a hospitalst year. I won''t mention the fourth brother for now since he just graduated and is still waiting for job cement. That''s about it..."


    Upon hearing this, An ZhiAng became unwilling and said, "If you''re introducing, why do you have to belittle me like that?"


    An JingZhi gave him a sidelong nce but didn''t exin.


    Despite being a young guy, An ZhiAng surprisingly gets motion sickness, so he sat obediently in his seat, closed his eyes, and tried to relieve himself, refraining from moving around.


    When they arrived at the station and stepped off the train, taking in the fresh air, An ZhiAng finally felt as if he hade alive again.

 Chapter 12: The Ownership of Ruby Pendants

    <h4>Chapter 12</h4>


    An JingZhi gave An ZhiXia another sidelong nce, saying, "ZhiXia, seeing your fourth brother like this, he probably can hardly make it home by himself. Why don''t you just take Dad''s car?"


    "Alright." An ZhiXia secretly winked at An ZhiAng.


    An ZhiAng''s originally calm face instantly broke into a smile.


    Oh well, give Teacher An a chance to show off. After all, he was still the one closest to his little sister.


    It would take another ten minutes or so to get home. Getting out of the car, An ZhiXia looked at the An family residence in front of her.


    Even though she had seen this ce countless times in her previous life, the feeling of having a tangible body now was still different.


    "This is our home, go on in, child," An JingZhi said, trying to keep his face calm while endlessly sighing on the inside.


    The An family had once been a prominent household, with ancestors who had held high office. However, the An family preferred a low profile and had never unted their status.


    When Grandpa was still alive, he had great foresight. He spent all the family fortune supporting the revolution and was himself a rather famous red writer. In the year before An ZhiXia and An ZhiAng were born, Grandpa had even donated an airne to the country. There was still a quememorating the airne donation hanging in the An family living room.


    For this reason, Grandpa had sold the ancestral mansion and moved the family into this smallerpound. Though called small, it was still rtively spaciouspared to the cramped quarters other families lived in.


    Even Grandpa''s insistence that his grandson An JingZhi marry a country girl Zhou Nan was a move to make the family background seem less prominent.


    One could say the An family''s ability to remain stable today despite such past glory was all thanks to Grandpa''s good fortune.


    "Mom, sister-inw, we''re back..."


    They could hear An ZhiAng''s voice before even entering the door. It made An JingZhi shake his head.


    This rascal took after him the most in looks, but had the least simr personality.


    Always noisy and rambunctious, yet he was already so old.


    The first person to run out from inside, however, was An MeiYun, followed by Liu Ling dragging along her child.


    Two-year-old Wen Qing let go of his mom''s hand as soon as he was out the door,ughing as he rushed towards An ZhiAng to be carried.


    An ZhiAng quickly took the child and even lifted him yfully, making the little one giggle and shout, "High, high..."


    An MeiYun''s face, bearing three or four parts resemnce to Li Xiu, was full of tears andplex emotions - expectation, apprehension. She walked up to An ZhiXia, "You must be elder sister Cao. Hello, I''m MeiYun. I..."


    Before An MeiYun could finish, An ZhiXia suddenly reached out and yanked off the red string around her neck. Hanging on it was a tear-shaped red jade pendant.


    "Ah..." An MeiYun cried out, covering the back of her neck where the string had cut in. The painful feeling lingered.


    She stared wide-eyed in disbelief. She could guess An ZhiXia must hate her, but didn''t expect her to act so directly, even daring toy hands on her in front of the whole family.


    But this was also her own scheme. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have deliberately worn this pendant today.


    "ZhiXia..."


    An JingZhi also didn''t expect this scene. Afraid she would act again, he quickly grabbed her wrist. An ZhiXia still held the red string in her hand, the pendant sped in her palm.


    "I''m just taking back what belongs to me. Is that really so shocking?" An ZhiXia smiled, finally remembering what she had forgotten - this red jade pendant.


    Once An JingZhi was sure she wouldn''t hit again, he let go. "What do you mean?"


    An ZhiXia opened her hand, revealing the pendant within, red as blood, smooth in texture, clearly high quality jade. But her gaze gradually saddened, "This was given to me by an old master driven out of his vige. Snatched away by elder sister two months ago. What a coincidence it would appear here."


    An ZhiXia''s tone changed as she looked up directly at An MeiYun.


    She hadn''t seen An MeiYun wear a red jade pendant in her previous life either, though it was possible because she had died then, while An MeiYun only found out about her own origins two years ago in this life and made contact with her wretched birth parents. So today, she deliberately chose to wear it to intimidate.


    After all, An MeiYun didn''t know she had also transmigrated back. The old her would likely have endured patiently for the sake of peace.


    An MeiYun''s heart lurched. She was puzzled why this waspletely different from her expectations.


    She really had deliberately worn this jade pendant today.


    After all, it was still a special period in history. Thrift and simplicity were virtues of the time. If she went out wearing such a pendant, she might even be criticized for vanity.


    Wasn''t elder sister Cao the most tolerant?


    Timid and useless, only lucky to have parents and an elder brother propping her up. Without them, she would have lived an even worse life than herself.


    But now elder sister Cao''s personality waspletely different from what she knew in the previous life.


    An MeiYun not only recalled the previous life, but An ZhiXia seemed to have also transmigrated back around the same time. Unlike this life where she took the initiative to find them,st time it happened because An ZhiAng fought with the family, ran away from home in anger and went to the Zhou house. He encountered grass-cutting elder sister Cao with that face so simr to Zhou Nan while wandering the mountains. That''s what raised his suspicions.


    So a few years after she returned, she contacted the Gao family and told them to keep elder sister Cao under control, otherwise neither would end up better off if things blew up. She just didn''t expect it to make elder sister Cao return prematurely, moreover already knowing of her own origins and even finding the Zhou family!


    "MeiYun, give me an exnation for this." An JingZhi''s scolding quickly brought An MeiYun back. Raising her eyes, An JingZhi had already taken An ZhiXia towards the living room.


    Liu Ling took little Wen Qing from An ZhiAng''s arms, found an excuse to hide away in her room.


    She didn''t have a great rtionship with An MeiYun either. In the first few years after marrying in, the young aunt hadn''t bullied her less. She and An Zhiqing were matched by her father-inw, so had no emotional foundation to start with. With her husband often away from home, she could only swallow grievances alone.


    But thest two years, An MeiYun suddenly changed, constantly trying to get close to her. Liu Ling had assumed it was because she bore the An family''s first grandson.


    Not until two days ago, when she found out this young aunt wasn''t even a blood rtion, and had known about her own origins two years prior, even contacting those heartless birth parents, did Liu Ling suddenly understand.


    The newly returned cousin didn''t seem easy to deal with either. Family matters should still be handled by her inws in the end. As a daughter-inw, she shouldn''t get involved. It was better to take her son and hide away, lest they get dragged in and embroiled in the mess.


    In the living room, An JingZhi sat down while everyone else stood.


    With his old arms and legs, he couldn''tpare to the young people. Riding a bike that long made his legs ache.


    He suddenly thought, those heartless Gao couple hadn''t properly taken care of their daughter at all these years. The child looked frail and probably couldn''t take much torment. He should let her sit to talk too.


    An ZhiXia certainly didn''t stand on ceremony. She hadn''t ridden a bike but sitting in the car so long was also ufortable.


    An MeiYun secretly clenched her fingers.


    Saying they were the same, even if elder sister Cao returned, she was still the daughter of this family. It was all lies.


    Elder sister Cao had juste back and was already clearly treated differently.


    An MeiYun felt she did no wrong. Elder sister Cao''s return was snatching away her life. If she didn''t resist, she would be viciously bullied likest time, and even pathetically die in the end.


    "Dad, sister did give me this pendant, but she said it was hers. I really didn''t know it belonged to elder sister Cao, otherwise I wouldn''t have worn it today. After all, in this period..." An MeiYun bit her lip, "Actually, I wore it today intending to give it to elder sister Cao. I just didn''t expect such an unfortunate coincidence that it originally belonged to elder sister Cao to begin with."

 Chapter 13: The Thief Who Took Over the Nest

    <h4>Chapter 13</h4>


    An MeiYun had already been in touch with the Gao Family for two years, so her family was aware of it. It would be unrealistic for her to deny itpletely, so she decided to tell a half-truth to make it harder for them to distinguish fact from fiction.


    An JingZhi still believed in the father-daughter love between them over the past 18 years.


    It was just so contradictory. On one hand, she felt that An ZhiXia''s return had snatched her position in An JingZhi and Zhou Nan''s hearts. On the other hand, she felt that the feelings An JingZhi and Zhou Nan had for raising her for 18 years could not possibly be reced by someone like Gao Little Grass who had only been around for a few days.


    Before An JingZhi could respond, An MeiYun turned to look at An ZhiXia. She kneeled down on the ground without any hesitation.


    From the sound alone, one could tell how painful her knees must have felt.


    But An MeiYun didn''t even change her expression. She looked at An ZhiXia sincerely and anxiously, and said, "Sister Xiaocao, I''m sorry, it was me who wronged you. I knew about our identities being switched two years ago, but I never told the family. I couldn''t bear to leave dad and mom and brother either. I never expected the Gao Family to treat you like that. They kept lying to me that they would treat you well. Fortunately you don''t seem to have suffered too much these past two years. I''ve also been tormented by guilt all this time. I don''t dare ask for your forgiveness. I only hope you can understand me a little, okay? I grew up with dad and mom since I was little. I thought I was their biological daughter for the first 16 years too. But then one day, someone suddenly came and told me I wasn''t, that I was just an imposter who took over someone else''s ce because of my parents'' greed. I would be scared too, I would be afraid too..."


    By the end, An MeiYun was crying so hard that her whole body was curled up on the floor. One could not see her face clearly, but one could hear the fear in her trembling voice.


    "And that jade pendant, the reason I wore it today was because I wanted to give it to Sister Xiaocao to apologize. I thought it was small and pretty, not suitable to wear out, but nice to y with at home. I didn''t expect it to backfire. Otherwise, when has Dad ever seen me wear it before?"


    An MeiYun wiped her tears. Her bloodshot eyes looked at the frowning An JingZhi, putting on a brave face that made people''s hearts ache.


    She looked somewhat simr to Li Xiu, but the two were as different as Heaven and Earth.


    Perhaps this was why people from the countryside always coveted the city so much. With such simr features, Li Xiu''s skin was dark from long days working under the sun. Her face often looked oily and shiny, especially under the sun. She even had dark spots on both sides of her nose, though not very noticeable on her dark skin.


    An MeiYun on the other hand had a slender figure, a slightly fuller chest, and fair smooth skin. Even with average looking features, she had a soft and charming aura when she cried.


    An ZhiXia was different again. Years of malnutrition made her look very undernourished. She was short and skinny, with a t figure. Her hair was dry and yellowish. Herplexion was also sallow and lifeless.


    Zhou Nan was able to marry An JingZhi not just because of the Old Master''s arrangement, but also because she herself was beautiful and capable.


    But An ZhiXia, who looked so much like her, was far from good-looking now after years of hardship.


    Leaving these issues aside, An MeiYun''s tearful plea did make An JingZhi''s heart ache.


    "Let''s treat this incident today as a coincidence. MeiYun, you''re not a child anymore. Just be more careful in the future."


    An MeiYun quickly nodded in agreement.


    An JingZhi understood that when coincidences happen too frequently, it bes intentional.


    But in his heart, it was just a small pendant. Just some petty jealousy between young girls.


    Having said that, An JingZhi turned to look at An ZhiXia, "ZhiXia, dad has agreed to your requests. Let''s just have a peaceful family dinner today, alright?"


    An ZhiXia knew he was referring to sending An MeiYun away from this family.


    Indeed,pared to that matter, the current issue was trivial. An ZhiXia didn''t insist on gaining the upper hand at this moment either.


    Just then, Zhou Nan came back from outside and called out from the yard, "Old An, ZhiAng, are you guys back?"


    "It''s your mom who''s back." An JingZhi replied and stood up.


    An MeiYun was still kneeling on the ground. When Zhou Nan reached the door and saw this scene, she was stunned for a moment.


    "What''s going on here?"


    "Mom, it''s my fault..." An MeiYun quickly got up and walked over to Zhou Nan, pretending to be cheerful as she took the things Zhou Nan was holding. She then exined what had just happened.


    With An JingZhi still here, she was smart enough not to add fuel to the fire.


    After she finished speaking, Zhou Nan sighed.


    "So it was because of that pendant. What a coincidence. MeiYun told me this morning after you left that Gao Second Sister gave her a nice looking pendant. She wanted to give it to..." Zhou Nan paused. It wasn''t that she had forgotten her own daughter''s name. She just simply didn''t want to say "Little Grass".


    A woman''s heart was more sensitive. The Gao couple had swapped her daughter away and fooled her into raising someone else''s child as her own for so many years. Meanwhile her own daughter had be a little grass in the wild, with no one to love or care for her.


    Recalling what her husband saidst night, her daughter had suffered so much, even being sold off to the mountains for just 20 yuan. If she hadn''t run out herself, perhaps she would have been finished for life. Her heart ached.


    An ZhiAng quickly chimed in, "Mom, my little sister is called ZhiXia, An ZhiXia. I gave her that name. Sounds nice right?"


    "Yes, very nice." Zhou Nan quickly wiped the corners of her eyes and continued. But her voice sounded hoarse. "She wanted to give that pendant to ZhiXia as an apology from her and Gao Second Sister. But I felt it wasn''t appropriate. Our family has an irreconcble feud with the Gaos. Even if the children are innocent, I still can''t be unprejudiced towards their children."


    Zhou Nan spoke of Gao Second Sister, but An MeiYun could no longer hold back her change in expression. She couldn''t be unprejudiced against the Gao''s children? What about her? She was also a child of the Gaos!


    No wonder, in her previous life, when she fell to that state, they all turned a blind eye to her, saying it was her own doing.


    So it turns out, from the moment their real daughter returned, she, the adopted daughter, had already be an eyesore.


    All those words about nothing changing for her were just lies to trick her.


    An MeiYun was trapped in her own thoughts and couldn''t break free.


    It wasn''t until An JingZhi called her, "MeiYun, your mom is asking you a question," that her mind cleared up again. She immediately snapped back to her senses and looked up to find everyone looking at her.


    An MeiYun''s scalp tingled. She quickly said, "I must have been too upset just now and felt a little dizzy and ufortable. Mom, I''m sorry, I didn''t hear what you said?"


    "Your mom asked you, didn''t I tell you this morning to not give the pendant Gao Second Sister gave you to ZhiXia because it''s inappropriate? And also told you not to keep it for yourself, and not to get involved with the Gaos in the future. What''s going on with you?" Zhou Nan was a little angry too. After raising her for so many years, seeing An MeiYun''s cried-out appearance still made her heart ache.

 Chapter 14: Only He died for revenge.

    <h4>Chapter 14</h4>


    An MeiYun, since she still dared to do this, must have already thought of excuses to say: "I''m sorry, mom. I was thinking of exchanging gifts, but really couldn''t find anything suitable, so I thought sister Xiaogel might not mind. It was...it was my fault for taking it for granted. I''m sorry to sister Xiaogel."


    In fact, when she deliberately mentioned her second elder sister, she knew Zhou Nan would definitely not agree to her giving the pendant as a gift. She also knew this pendant was said to be very meaningful to her, so she deliberately wore it to provoke the other party.


    She just didn''t expect that in this life, the man who didn''t even dare to resist cheating in his previous life was so tough this time, and directly took action when they first met.


    "Are you deaf? Brother already said my name is An ZhiXia, yet you still keep calling me sister Xiaogel, are you doing that on purpose to remind me or provoke me?" An ZhiXia had been with An MeiYun for many years in her previous life, so she naturally understood her very well.


    She looked gentle and harmless on the surface, but was actually a ck-hearted lotus.


    "Also, I don''t believe my second elder sister didn''t tell you this pendant was originally mine when she gave it to you. And given the greed of my second elder sister, for her to willingly give you the pendant, she must have gotten some benefit from you too, right?"


    "It''s my fault, I just overlooked the name issue. Sister ZhiXia, don''t hold it against me? And I really didn''t know..." An MeiYun was so frightened that she had indeed used the pendant to exchange for two silver dors from her second elder sister.


    An JingZhi saw that the two daughters were unrelenting towards each other. Continuing this would lead nowhere, so he hurriedly interjected, "ZhiXia, your father just told MeiYun too, let''s move past this incident, alright?"


    After saying that, he hurriedly said to Zhou Nan, "ZhiXia just got back, the child is terribly weak. There are chickens, ducks and two fish caught by Jianye hanging outside the bike, see if you can prepare them, and make the child a good supplement. Also, how are the living arrangements?"


    "It''s all arranged. Let..." Zhou Nan saw An JingZhi gesture at her, so she quickly changed her words, "Let ZhiXia stay in brother four''s room. Brother four can first squeeze in with brother three for a few days. The storage room at the back doesn''t get good sunlight. We''ll add a window when we have time, then brother four can move back out."


    "Then let''s do that first. You take ZhiXia to see her room. It''s been an tiring day, let the child rest first." An JingZhi said.


    "Alright, ZhiXia, mum will take you to your room first." Seeing that her arrangements were right, Zhou Nan went to hold An ZhiXia''s hand. Upon touching it, the coarse feeling made her heart ache.


    How much suffering must this child have endured to have hands rougher than hers at just eighteen?


    Zhou Nan took An ZhiXia to An ZhiAng''s room, which had already been cleaned up with the bedsheets and nkets washed, still carrying the smell of sunlight.


    "My child, you''ve really suffered these years. This room originally belonged to your fourth brother. Stay here first. If anything is unsuitable orcking just tell mum, it''ste today, mum will take you to get some clothes and such tomorrow."


    Zhou Nan originally had more to say, but seeing her indifferent expression, she was afraid saying the wrong thing would make the child antipathetic.


    After all, her sons oftenin that she nags too much.


    It was gettingte, she still had to prepare dinner, so after a few more reminders she left.


    Just as she walked back to the living room, she heaved a heavy sigh.


    An MeiYun was still waiting in the living room. She said, "Mum, I know I upset sister again today, but I really didn''t mean to. Even if I''m not your birth daughter, you raised me for eighteen years, you should know me right?"


    "MeiYun, your sister isn''t holding it against you either, let''s not bring up the past alright." Zhou Nan was also mentally exhausted, especially after seeing the misery of her own birth daughter, thenparing her to An MeiYun whom she had spoiled growing up, her heart was filled withplex feelings.


    "But didn''t we agree to let sister live with me? That way I could also get her to ept me sooner."


    "MeiYun, you saw it just now, your sister has suffered too much. Right now she doesn''t have good feelings towards you or even this family. Like you said, mum raised you for eighteen years, you should make concessions for ZhiXia first. We''ll talk about the rest after she epts our family."


    Moreover, they didn''t say ZhiXia must live with her, just that they should try to have the girls live together as much as possible. One was the birth daughter, the other was raised as a birth daughter, it''d be best if they could get along well so the parents wouldn''t be caught in the middle.


    But clearly, ZhiXia was too averse to MeiYun. Adding the jade pendant incident, making her live with MeiYun now would only be counterproductive.


    After finishing, Zhou Nan went out. An JingZhi was in the yard taking down the chickens, ducks and fish. Hearing Zhou Nan''s words made An MeiYun''s heart even colder. An ZhiAng on the side saw her expression and scoffed coldly.


    "An MeiYun, I warn you, you better rein in your scheming thoughts for your own good. Don''t think I don''t know what you''re like. Don''t me me for not warning you, if you dare bully my sister, I won''t let you off."


    "Fourth brother, I''m the sister who grew up with you, and I don''t intend to be at odds with sister ZhiXia either. Why do you guys always think so badly of me?" An MeiYun felt she was going mad. She had been so good to them these past two years, yet the moment An ZhiXia appeared, it was as if all her efforts and contributions were wasted.


    "Whether you''re good or bad, you know clearly in your heart. I''m not dad or mum, I won''t be fooled by you."


    An ZhiAng disliked An MeiYun for a reason. Although she looked very well-behaved these past two years, but two years ago An MeiYun was a devious two-faced viin.


    Because of her deliberately causing trouble, An ZhiAng was punished severely many times.


    He used to bear with her thinking she was his sister, but now...he would not indulge her.


    He had thought she grew up and changed her ways, but it turns out these past two years of obedience was just because she found out she wasn''t a blood rtive, so she was trying to curry favor out of guilt.


    An ZhiAng knocked on the door twice, then entered after An ZhiXia let him in.


    Upon entering, he saw the bed''s covers wereid open. "Are you tired and wanted to nap for a bit? Did brother disturb you?"


    "No, I just wanted to lie down for a while. On the contrary, I took fourth brother''s room, you don''t me me right?" Actually An ZhiXia noticed something off about her pendant just now, but didn''t have the chance to check yet.


    An ZhiAng smiled and said, "Silly girl, what are you saying? Don''t forget, you''re my sister by blood. Not just this room, even if you wanted brother''s life, I''d give it to you. Just don''t stand on ceremony with me, ZhiXia. No matter when, don''t forget that we are blood siblings. Brother will always love you."


    An ZhiXia knew he could really give his life to avenge them, because she had seen it before.


    Compared to how the other An family members were either murdered or angered/worried to death, only An ZhiAng died to take revenge.

 Chapter 15: Convergence of Space and Level Traders

    <h4>Chapter 15</h4>


    Oh, there was also sister-inw Liu Ling. She also died a tragic death.


    After the An family was destroyed, big brother was also forced to leave the army because of the stain on him, and was killed by An Meiyun who conspired with the ck Dragon Mountain bandits who had seemingly reformed.


    Four-year-old Little Wenqing was tricked out by An Meiyun and kidnapped. Liu Ling had just lost her husband and now lost her son too. She became somewhat neurotic, andter was also tricked by An Meiyun to the mountains. When she regained consciousness, she bit off her own tongue and bled to death.


    Every time someone in the An family died, An ZhiXia watched helplessly by the side. But she was powerless to help them.


    She couldn��t save herself or them.


    An ZhiXia opened her eyes, remembering those tragic scenes, and uncontrobly shed tears, frightening An Zhiang who was watching her.


    "Little sister, what''s wrong? Did fourth brother say something wrong?"


    An Zhiang hurriedly used his clothes to wipe away her tears. But An ZhiXia grabbed him in a hug. "Fourth brother, I just want to hug you."


    "Okay, fourth brother will hug you," An Zhiang said, caressing her withered hair, vaguely understanding that she must be remembering some sad things.


    Damn Gao family. If I had known earlier, I should have punished them more severely.


    Outside, Liu Ling called him, "Zhiang, Liu Jun is waiting for you at the door."


    An Zhiang was eager to know the fate of the Gao family. He gently patted An ZhiXia''s shoulder, "Little sister, I''m going to find out how they punished the Gao family."


    An ZhiXia quickly stood properly, "Then go ahead, fourth brother. I''ll take a nap in the room."


    When An Zhiang went out, he even closed the door for her. An ZhiXia sat on the bed and took out the jade pendant that she had hurriedly stuffed into her pocket just now.


    Just now, suddenly, she felt the jade pendant grow hot. An Zhiang happened to knock on the door then, so she pretended nothing was wrong.


    Now when she took it out again, the hot feeling was gone, leaving her unable to figure out what had happened.


    An ZhiXia looked again and found that there seemed to be something inside the jade pendant.


    To see it more clearly, she brought the jade pendant close to her eyes. A sh of white light, and the jade pendant suddenly turned into a tablet, merging with the space in her body.


    An ZhiXia felt she was really lucky. Perhaps in her previous life she had suffered too much, so this life the heavens werepensating her.


    First there was the Meteor Space, and now this jade contained an Interdimensional Trading Device.


    An ZhiXia suppressed her inner excitement and carefully examined it.


    At this time, the jade hadpletely merged with the space. In the open space not far from the river in the space, a very sci-fi looking building appeared out of thin air.


    Previously she had felt the space was so big yet so empty without even a house. Now another wish was fulfilled.


    The interior of the house was also very sci-fi. It had sofas, tables, chairs and everything. At the ce for the work desk was a veryrge electronic screen filled with mysterious cosmic images.


    This was the trading device connected to the interdimensional trading mall.


    An ZhiXia immediately started fiddling with it. She chose to click on one of the stars, and that star instantly lit up.


    A page popped up saying "Large farmer from the modern dimension has added you as a friend."


    The page changed again. She clicked to enter the product showcase of the Large Farmer. There were only two types of products, all pre-cut meat. Clicking further led to product descriptions.


    An ZhiXia had just started browsing when the Large Farmer sent a message, "Hello, my shop is small but we have all kinds of items for eating, drinking, clothing and use. Let me know if you need anything."


    An ZhiXia quickly replied, "Then why do you only have two products in your shop?"


    The other party immediately sent another message, "You must be a neer who just got an Interdimensional Trading Device right? I suggest you read the introduction about the Interdimensional Trading Device first."


    An ZhiXia quickly went to read it, and found out that the product disy slots in the trading device had to be purchased. Also, other than the one friend gifted when first getting the device, opportunities to gain more friends had to be purchased with Star Coins, the currency used in the trading device.


    Of course, An ZhiXia currently had 0 Star Coins. Friends could also choose to barter items between themselves, which was quite humane.


    They could also sell their things to the Interdimensional Trading Device in exchange for Star Coins. But the device was very selective about what it wanted, and the things it wanted were usually very precious or hard to obtain.


    An ZhiXia opened her personal introduction, and found her name was actually Era Rich Girl!


    Fortunately, the trading device came with a free name change card she could use. Further name changes would require purchasing a name change card with Star Coins.


    An ZhiXia decisively changed her name to Era Little Rich Woman, which was also her goal for the future.


    As for the personal description below, she wrote "Mainly agricultural and aquatic products, various Chinese herbs".


    She wrote ording to the items currently in her space. As she obtained other things in the future, she could edit it again.


    An ZhiXia didn''t have any product disy slots yet, so she couldn''t upload pictures either.


    She contacted the Large Farmer again, "Hello, Large Farmer, can I barter items with you?"


    Large Farmer: "That depends on whether your items are what I need. After all, my time period isn''t too far from yours, and is much more advanced. But things like jade, gold, pearls and jewelry from your period should be very cheap. If you have such things."


    As for antiques, forget it. The two were not from the same dimension, just had simr historical development paths. Antiques from that side could not withstand scrutiny on this side.


    An ZhiXia thought about it. She didn''t have jade, gold, pearls or jewelry. But she did have a space, with various seafood in the sea and river, precious medicinal herbs in the fields, and fruits and vegetables in the orchards.


    Having experienced the 21st century, An ZhiXia naturally knew what could arouse the other party''s desire to trade.


    "I don''t have those things you mentioned yet. But I do have hundred-year ginseng, lingzhi mushrooms, gastrodia, dendrobium..."


    Large Farmer: "If you really have hundred-year ginseng and lingzhi, we can certainly trade. What do you need from my side? Should I introduce the types of items I have?"


    Of course the Large Farmer wasn''t afraid the other party was lying, because once a trade was made, the Interdimensional Trading Device would automatically form a contract. And whichever side vited it or falsified things would receive punishment from the device. That was no simple punishment, and could very possibly result in loss of the trading device. No one would be so foolish as to give up such an amazing gold finger for a tiny bit of advantage.


    An ZhiXia didn''t need an introduction at all, and simply asked about prices.

 Chapter 16: Adding the Eschatological Plane

    <h4>Chapter 16</h4>


    Large farmer: "A few years ago, someone here sold me a 150-year-old ginseng that went for 3 million yuan at the time. Of course I need to make some profit, so I can only sell it to you for 2.6 million yuan. But you have to guarantee that the ginseng is of good quality without any defects that could impact its medicinal value."


    "That''s a given." The price offered by therge farmer was a bit higher than An ZhiXia had expected.


    The deal was made, and An ZhiXia directly sent him a list of items she needed.


    What she asked for were all very ordinary things, like pairs of various livestock, and the rest were food and household items. She also asked the farmer to help her procure a batch of supplies appropriate for this time period.


    This money was as good as free money to her, so she didn''t feel bad spending it. Although An ZhiXia could currently enter the space, she could only move freely within this house. Once she stepped out of the house, she would be affected by the elerated time in the space and rapidly age.


    Worried that she might get carried away someday, she had locked the door from the inside as a precaution against identally wandering out.


    Fortunately, she couldpletely control everything in the space with her consciousness, and didn''t need to do anything manually.


    An ZhiXia used her consciousness to dig up some ginseng. She didn''t know much about it either, just going by feel in her selection.


    The trading device had 10 storage slots that could be used to store items, with unlimited stacking of identical items. An ZhiXia first stored the ginseng in a slot, then initiated a trade, sending the ginseng to therge farmer.


    "By the way, do you have anything that can be used to pack stuff?"


    Therge farmer had just received the ginseng in hand and was examining it carefully, although he didn''t know much about it either.


    But he had too many of the things An ZhiXia asked for. Without even replying, he directly sent over 10 foam boxes and a stack of cardboard boxes, along with some rolls of clear tape.


    An ZhiXia picked a few of each type of fruit, and fished out some seafood from the ocean. She filled two foam boxes to send to the other party.


    "These are some of the items I have. I''m sending you some to try. If you need more, you can also initiate a trade!"


    Therge farmer was probably embarrassed by the gift and also sent some things over. "Thank you. These are a pig and a cow I just ughtered from my farm. Although they are not as precious as your emperor crabs, you can still have a taste."


    Wealthydy from the 70s: "Thank you too."


    So much meat, she was overjoyed.


    Large farmer: "You''re wee. But I have a question - it''s still the 1970s over there for you right, before the Reform and Opening Up? I see you asked for the animals in pairs, are you nning to secretly raise them?"


    Wealthydy from the 70s: "I n to secretly raise them in the mountains." Of course she wouldn''t tell others that she had a space besides the trading device.


    Large farmer: "I see, then you''d better be careful. The items you asked for are quite misceneous, so I''ll need some time to prepare them. How about I send you a batch of what I currently have tonight, and the rest that needs sourcing tomorrow afternoon?"


    Wealthydy from the 70s: "That''s fine with me."


    An ZhiXia also asked about how to obtain star coins, but was told it was extremely difficult.


    He heard from another friend that only items containing special energy could be collected by the trading device, and those items could only be found in special nes.


    For ordinary ne merchants like them, obtaining star coins was as difficult as climbing to heaven. The small amount he had was obtained with great effort - how could he possibly use it to buy these ordinary items?


    Therge farmer went to prepare the trade items owed to An ZhiXia. She tinkered by herself for a while, and dug up a thousand-year ginseng from the medicine field to test.


    This was the most valuable item in the entire space. If even this couldn''t meet the trading requirements during the trial period, she was afraid she would be stuck with just this one friend for life.


    Of course, she could also go out to look for mineral deposits with energy, like how therge farmer did it.


    But these things were few and far between, relying entirely on luck, and likely requiring significant sacrifice to obtain.


    Fortunately, while 100-year ginseng didn''t qualify, the thousand-year ginseng did contain some energy.


    When she stored it in a slot, the nar trading device disyed: "Special energy detected in thousand-year ginseng. Can be sold for 1,000 star coins. Does the host wish to sell?"


    An ZhiXia decisively chose to sell, and received 1,000 star coins in her ount.


    But 1,000 star coins could only buy one merchandise disy cab. Adding an ordinary ne friend cost 10,000 star coins, while adding a friend from a ne with special energy cost 100,000 star coins.


    An ZhiXia fellpletely silent.


    This meant adding one ordinary ne friend would require ten thousand-year ginsengs, while adding a special energy ne friend would need a hundred thousand-year ginsengs.


    No matter how elerated the time was in her space, the thousand-year ginsengs were limited in number. While there were many hundred-year ginsengs, there would still be consumption during the growth process, so it was impossible for every seedling to fully mature.


    She''d probably have to sell them all just to afford adding one special energy ne friend!


    As an ordinary ne herself, even if she did manage to add a special ne, they might not even look upon her favorably, and there were huge risks involved.


    Moreover, if she could add someone from a cultivation ne for example, as an ordinary ne human, she wouldn''t be able to cultivate even if she somehow obtained a cultivation technique through affinity.


    So it seemed rather meaningless, though cultivation ne star coins were probably easier to obtain.


    Oh well, she was just an ordinary person. Being able to transmigrate and obtain this space and nar trading device was already heaven-defying enough. As for anything else, she would just let nature take its course.


    An ZhiXia chose to sell ten thousand-year ginsengs. The trading device even disyed merchandise she could purchase with star coins - she could buy merchandise disy cabs, expand her residence, and some items she couldn''t even recognize or understand - those were probably the things containing special energy.


    The more An ZhiXia looked, the poorer she felt. She simply closed the page and chose to add a friend instead.


    This time it was a post-apocalyptic ne, but the avatar was dim, showing they were offline. She heard someone knocking on the door outside, so she hurriedly exited.


    "ZhiXia, dinner is ready." Liu Ling''s voice came from the door, along with a tender, childish voice babbling, "Auntie, eat dinner..." as if calling out to someone, and also muttering to herself.


    "Coming." An ZhiXia responded and opened the door to exit.


    The little one was leaning with both hands on the door. As she opened it, the toddler stumbled forward a step right into her legs.


    Liu Ling was startled and moved to catch her, but saw that An ZhiXia had already picked her up.


    "Little one, were you calling me for dinner?"


    An ZhiXia smiled and pinched her cheek lightly.


    An WenQing became shy and reached out for Liu Ling to hold her.


    Liu Ling took her into her arms, and she immediately nestled against her mother''s shoulder. Then she peeked up at An ZhiXia.


    Finding An ZhiXia was also looking at her, she broke into a beaming smile and kicked her legs excitedly, before burying her face in Liu Ling''s shoulder again to hide.

 Chapter 17: One Hundred and Fifty

    <h4>Chapter 17</h4>


    The joy of little children is so simple.


    Liu Ling was also amused by her son''s shy little look, and exined to An ZhiXia with a smile, "This child is just too shy. ZhiXia, don''t mind him. He''s not familiar with me yet. It''s normal for him not to let me hold him. When he gets used to meter, he definitely won''t be so shy."


    Over Liu Ling''s shoulder, An ZhiXia asked An WenQing, "Isn''t that right, little An WenQing?"


    She hoped An WenQing would be more vignt so he wouldn''t be so easily kidnapped in the future.


    But when she thought back to her previous life, how he was taken away with a hand over his mouth, then drugged along the way until he didn''t survive, An ZhiXia felt the urge to tear An MeiYun apart.


    This was just a child. Although not particrly close to her, he still called her auntie. Yet An MeiYun was so vicious that everyone in the An family died directly or indirectly by her hand.


    An WenQing''sughter pulled An ZhiXia''s wandering thoughts back to reality. Zhou Nan had finished cooking thest dish and told them to hurry up and eat.


    With An WenQing as a topic, An ZhiXia and Liu Lingughed and talked as they walked to the dining room. This gave Liu Ling a very different impression of An ZhiXia.


    At first, An ZhiXia''s sharp appearance made Liu Ling think this young aunt would be very difficult to deal with. She didn''t expect her to be not as unapproachable as she appeared. She even really liked ying with little An WenQing.


    The others were already in the dining room. An MeiYun was helping serve the dishes. In addition to An JingZhi and An ZhiAng, two men in their early twenties were sitting at the table, one of them wearing sses.


    An ZhiXia naturally knew who they were. An JingZhi introduced them, "ZhiXia, these two are also your brothers. The one with sses is your second brother ZhiRen, who teaches at school like Dad. The other is your third brother ZhiXian. He currently works at a hospital as a resident doctor."


    An ZhiRen looked refined and cultivated like An JingZhi, with a schrly air about him. He smiled and stood up to greet An ZhiXia, his attitude very gentle and considerate in his words.


    Compared to An ZhiRen, An ZhiXian was more aloof, simply giving a brief greeting.


    An ZhiAng red at An ZhiXian, then smilingly urged An ZhiXia to hurry and eat, asking her to sit next to him. He had even prepared her bowl and chopsticks, afraid she wouldn''t feelfortable.


    An MeiYun was very unhappy, because that was usually her spot, yet this woman had just returned and now the whole family was doting on her. Plus the family''s resentment towards the Gao couple, she didn''t dare make trouble about it at this time, she could only repress her dissatisfaction and add another spot for herself.


    Because An ZhiXia had just returned, tonight''s dinner at the An family was exceptionally abundant. Zhou Nan had gotten up early to line up for the braised noodles with pork that An JingZhi and Zhou Nan kept piling food in her bowl, even forgetting to eat themselves because they doted on her so much. An ZhiAng also attended to her the entire time, so An ZhiXia ate heartily and contentedly.


    Even the tworge chicken legs went to her and An WenQing, one each, which made An MeiYun sullen the entire time.


    She should know that she used to be the only girl in the family, everything was rationed for her, even little An WenQing couldn''tpare to her status.


    But now, all the attention had been snatched away by An ZhiXia, no one paid her any mind.


    After the meal, to make a show, An MeiYun unusually took the initiative to clean up when everyone else put down their chopsticks.


    Normally Zhou Nan wouldn''t let her do these chores.


    Including Liu Ling, she rarely had her daughter do housework since Liu Ling worked outside and handled the household chores herself.


    But today, she was eager to have a heart-to-heart with her daughter, so when An MeiYun offered to help clean up, she agreed without thinking too much, angering An MeiYun to grit her teeth when no one was looking.


    An ZhiAng pulled his two brothers outside to the entrance and started in on them, "Third brother, do you dislike our little sistering back?"


    An ZhiAng and An ZhiXian were two years apart. Plus the oldest was away in the military and the second was a bookworm, so the two of them were the closest, able to speak without reserve.


    But this time, An ZhiAng''s confrontation left An ZhiXian somewhat baffled. "Are you standing up for her?"


    He didn''t have any particr feelings about An ZhiXia, liking or disliking her. After all, he''d never met her before.


    But wasn''t that just his personality, aloof towards everyone?


    An ZhiAng spoke as if it was a matter of course, "I am standing up for her. Second and third brother, let me tell you, ZhiXia and I are twins. I''m definitely going to protect her. You have to protect her too, don''t let anyone bully her, otherwise don''t me me for not giving you two face."


    The second and third brother exchanged a look, not quite understanding what was going on.


    After all, when they thought MeiYun was the biological child, they didn''t see him protecting her. On the contrary, the two were always fighting over trivial things. It was only in thest two years that MeiYun suddenly became well-behaved and stopped antagonizing him.


    Come to think of it, it was in thest two years that MeiYun started behaving, around the same time she got involved with the Gao family...


    What a coincidence. They had to admit, their little sister was quite calcting and scheming.


    After a while, An ZhiXian puzzledly spoke up, "I heard twins can have a psychic connection. Could it be you and ZhiXia have that too?" So that''s why he was so protective of her.


    "I don''t care about connections or not, in any case I''m definitely going to protect my little sister. What''s more, ZhiXia is so well-behaved and suffered so much in the past, we should all be more considerate of her."


    Speaking of which, at the mention of her suffering, An ZhiRen and An ZhiXian''s hearts went out to An ZhiXia. And feeling sorry for her, they got swindled by that rascal An ZhiAng for their pocket money!


    An ZhiAng had promised to buy An ZhiXia new clothes, and not just one outfit either. He was unemployed without money, but his second and third brothers had money.


    Especially the second brother, who had been working for several years. Aside from contributing to household expenses, he didn''t have much personal spending, only An ZhiAng asionally swiping some from him. He must have at least a few hundred yuan saved up. Asking him for 100 yuan was already very reasonable.


    As for the third brother, although still a medical resident, he''d been working for over half a year. Doctors didn''t have low sries either. Asking him for 50 yuan wasn''t excessive, right?


    Just pooling this together, they had 150 yuan on hand. He nned to take his little sister out shopping tomorrow at the biggest department store.

 Chapter 18: She鈥檚 the beneficiary, she鈥檚 the victim.

    <h4>Chapter 18</h4>


    Seeing the smug look on An ZhiAng''s face, An ZhiRen deliberately asked An ZhiXian, "Youngest brother, since we have to give this money anyway, why don''t we just give it to little sister directly instead of having it go through this brat first when the money is clearly from us? He''s trying to take credit for our generosity!"


    An ZhiXian smiled and said to An ZhiRen, "Then why don''t you be the nice guy and give me the money to pass along?"


    An ZhiRen quickly waved his hands, "Please spare me. It''s only Tuesday and I still have sses. I''ll be upte grading assignments tonight too. Where would I find time to go shopping with little sister?"


    "I''m busy too. We have no choice but to let this brat take advantage." An ZhiXian sighed.


    An ZhiAng knew they would say this. He rushed them, "Stop wasting time and go get the money. I still have to think about where to take little sister after shopping tomorrow."


    The two reluctantly shook their heads but were rushed off to take money anyway.


    After handing the money to An ZhiAng, An ZhiRen couldn''t help but warn him, "This money is for little sister. Don''t you dare pocket it yourself."


    An ZhiAng quickly took it, grinning from ear to ear, "Look at what second brother is saying. What kind of person do you take me for?"


    An MeiYun had just finished cleaning up the kitchen and happened to see this scene on her way back to her room. Her heart instantly soured.


    She of course knew this money was not for her. Even the term "little sister" had been snatched away by An ZhiXia. How could she not feel resentful?


    An ZhiXia had only returned home for a few hours, yet they didn''t seem to consider her feelings at all.


    In another room, An JingZhi and Zhou Nan were discussing taking An ZhiXia shopping tomorrow for some things and to the hospital for a checkup.


    An JingZhi and Zhou Nan were both tall, and all their sons were quite tall too. An ZhiXia looked thin and frail inparison. Considering the child''s difficult past, Zhou Nan worried she might have hidden health issues and wanted her checked out at the hospital for some peace of mind.


    Even if she was healthy, some supplements and treatments would be good.


    An ZhiXia naturally did not refuse something that would benefit her. Looking at Zhou Nan''s appearance and temperament, she guessed Zhou Nan must be quite beautiful herself. An ZhiXia also wanted to take better care of herself and be gorgeous.


    First off were her figure and skin. Her body was too weak and undeveloped. This needed to be addressed through diet. If she tried hard, maybe she could still catch thest train of growth and gain some height. Even if not, having some meat on her bones would make her look less emaciated.


    As for her skin, it wasn''t just dark but yellowish too. Likely from sun exposure, overwork, and malnutrition.


    But now she had dimensional space and the trading device, so she didn''t need to worry about food and drinks. She was confident her condition would improve quickly.


    Hearing them discuss ns for tomorrow, An ZhiXia patiently waited a while longer. When they still hadn''t brought up arrangements for An MeiYun, she couldn''t help but look at An JingZhi and remind him, "I recall when I agreed to return, you also promised me..."


    An JingZhi pursed his lips and looked at An ZhiXia without speaking for a long time.


    It was Zhou Nan who realized something was wrong. She nudged his arm and asked, "Does ZhiXia have other requests?"


    "I promised her I would make MeiYun leave the family." After a long pause, An JingZhi finally sighed and replied. Then he looked at An ZhiXia again, "ZhiXia, I know you must resent MeiYun for taking your ce, but what happened wasn''t something any of us wanted. MeiYun was just a baby then, unable to decide for herself. If you want to me, you can only me that heartless couple. Dad promised you about MeiYun leaving and won''t go back on his word, but you must also give the family some time. After all, we raised MeiYun for so many years now and have feelings for her, even if she were just a kitten or puppy. I hope you can understand this. The Gaos have been arrested, so we can''t just kick her out now to be homeless, right?"


    "So you mean now that I''ve returned, I won''t leave? Or you regret your promise to me because blood rtions win out over adopted ones after all?"


    "That''s not what Dad means, don''t misunderstand." An JingZhi quickly exined, "What I mean is, please give me some time. I will find a way to arrange a job for her. She''s a girl who will need a ce of her own after leaving our family, right?"


    An ZhiXia rubbed her forehead wearily, "I can''t stand living with my enemy under the same roof. Ten days. Either she leaves or I do."


    Zhou Nan was anxious, "ZhiXia, even if you two can''t be sisters, calling her your enemy is too much, isn''t it? MeiYun didn''t know anything back then either. She''s a victim too..."


    Zhou Nan tried to persuade but was interrupted by An ZhiXia, "You''re wrong. She''s not the victim, she''s the beneficiary."


    "Do you know what a victim should be treated like?" An ZhiXia rolled up her sleeves, revealing the old and new scars on her arms. "See this? This is how victims deserve to be treated. Do you know the Gaos never intended to let me live? Li Xiuming had milk but didn''t let me have a single drop. Back then Gao Grandma was kept in the dark, thinking they didn''t like me because I was a girl. Whenever someone in the vige had a baby, Gao Grandma would carry me over to nurse a little, and paste me some flour paste from time to time, I guess I was fated to live because even that didn''t manage to starve me to death. I just lived from famine to feast, getting smarter from experience. Ever since I can remember, washing clothes, cooking, feeding pigs and chickens were all my chores. I''d get beaten and scolded if I was idle for a moment. That kind of life was bearable at first, I was used to it anyway. But starting two years ago, they kept trying to get me killed. When I washed clothes, Gao Second Sister would push me into the river. Just because Gao Dazhuang was in a bad mood after drinking, he took a burning coal stick from under the pot and threw it at me, leaving these burn scars still on my chest today. I should be grateful they didn''t dare directly murder me, so they drugged me and sold me to a bald old man who once beat his wife to death. Do you know how disgusted I felt that day when I regained consciousness?"


    At this moment, An ZhiXia''s words contained resentment, including towards An JingZhi and Zhou Nan who couldn''t bear to part with An MeiYun.


    They didn''t know how tragically An MeiYun caused the An family to suffer in her past life.


    If they knew An MeiYun would falsely use them, causing Grandpa and Grandma to die of anger, and all 4 sons to suffer and die with even the daughter-inws and cute little grandson meeting such tragic ends, would they still be so sympathetic towards An MeiYun?


    Hearing An ZhiXia''s words, Zhou Nan was already crying inconsbly, copsing to the floor. "Stop it, stop talking..."

 Chapter 19: It鈥檚 Decided

    <h4>Chapter 19</h4>


    An ZhiXia''s heart was clenched so tightly, her whole body seemed to be dying.


    She had heard An JingZhi talk about some children''s experiences, but those were all superficial. Private child abuse like this, the Gao family couple would certainly not advertise it. And who could empathize with the victim An ZhiXia?


    Zhou Nan cried pitifully, but she had to finish what she wanted to say today.


    If after hearing all this, they still wanted to keep An MeiYun, then she had nothing more to say. She would just have to reconsider the two people before her.


    An ZhiXia was no longer as agitated as before, instead she had calmed down. She recalled the scene that day, "When I woke up, I saw a disheveled old man who could be my father tearing at my clothes. Of course I didn''t want to be bullied so I fought back. He grabbed my hair and hit me, it hurt a lot, so much I almost died..."


    In her previous life she did die, and it was a terrible death too. Her body was dismembered and discarded in some corner of the mountain, no one knew where.


    "Then I kicked him and barely managed to escape and climb up the mountain, and...I even rolled down from the mountain. It was my determination that allowed me to persist and find the Zhou family, because I was unwilling, unwilling to be bullied for so many years and just die like that in an unknown corner, with even my own parents unaware of my existence, instead treating the ones who harmed me like their own children..."


    An ZhiXia deliberately omitted the part about meeting a man on the mountain. That would remain her deepest secret, one no one would ever know in this life.


    Zhou Nan was supported out of An ZhiXia''s room by An JingZhi, sobbing loudly.


    So when they came out, all three An brothers were already waiting in the hallway, along with Liu Ling holding her child, and An MeiYun looking concerned as she stood to the side. Although they didn''t hear what was said in the room, seeing Zhou Nan''s pitiful sobbing, it probably wasn''t pleasant conversation.


    An MeiYun wasn''t concerned about Zhou Nan''s crying. She only worried whether her position in this family would change because of An ZhiXia.


    She had to get on An JingZhi and Zhou Nan''s good side. With everyone worried about Zhou Nan but not daring to ask, she took the opportunity to perform her concern. She pinched her thigh hard and with red-rimmed eyes, feigned sympathy for Zhou Nan as she went up, "Mom, what''s wrong?"


    An MeiYun wanted to hold Zhou Nan''s arm but she dodged it and said coldly, "It''s good you''re all here. Your father and I have something to say to you. Let''s go to the living room."


    An MeiYun suddenly had a bad premonition. She was very anxious but didn''t dare make any moves under Zhou Nan''s coldness. She could only follow fearfully to the living room.


    Zhou Nan sat in the chair supported by An JingZhi, heart aching.


    An JingZhi then said, "I asked you all toe because your mother and I have something to announce. Now that ZhiXia has returned, the life that was maliciously taken from her should be returned..."


    An MeiYun panicked, "Dad, what do you mean ''returned''? Have you forgotten your promise to me? I''m your daughter too!"


    There was no such scene in their previous life.


    Even when she was sent back to the Gao familyter, it was because the An family was reported for not sending any of their children to the countryside to support national development. Only then did An JingZhi find someone to arrange for her to be sent to the nearby Anle vige to stay with the Gao family.


    But this life, she had just overheard An ZhiAng telling Liu Jun at the door that her biological parents had already beenbeled as bad elements, and a public criticism session was going to be held in town in a few days. At worst, it might even make the newspapers.


    She wasn''t afraid of the Gao couple being publicly criticized, but if it made the newspapers then everyone would know, and even she might be implicated.


    An MeiYun was already worried about this, and hearing An JingZhi''s words made her even more anxious. Were they really not going to give her a way out?


    An JingZhi didn''t dare look at An MeiYun''s eyes, not because he felt guilty, but because he was afraid he couldn''t bear her pleading gaze.


    It was true he had raised MeiYun well and felt distress for her, but he had already doted on An MeiYun for 18 years. Right now the one he should feel most distressed for was his own daughter.


    Thinking of all the suffering she had endured over the years, and the despair in her eyes, An JingZhi felt a stabbing pain in his heart.


    He really regretted not going with An ZhiAng to take revenge on the Gao family, and not personally punishing that vicious couple.


    An MeiYun''s panic made her desperate to find An ZhiXia, "Is it because sister ZhiXia doesn''t agree to let me stay? I''ll go find her and beg her, I''ll kneel before her..."


    "You''re not my daughter, you''re the Gao family''s daughter. If it wasn''t for the Gao couple''s malicious act of switching our daughter, how could I have let my own daughter suffer so much while raising their enemy''s daughter as my own?" At this moment Zhou Nan really hated her. Even when facing the girl she had raised for 18 years, she couldn''t help feeling some resentment.


    Her cold voice also stopped An MeiYun in her tracks.


    "MeiYun, if you still remember the grace your father and I showed raising you, then leave. Don''t make a scene, and don''t say anything to beg us. Out of these years of affection, our family will try our best to find you a job, to fulfill the mother-daughter love between us over the years. As for the future, I also need to take good care of my own daughter. She was born from my womb, and it was my oversight that allowed others to switch her away, causing her to suffer so much over these years. Now that she has finally returned, I can''t possibly make her ufortable facing her enemy''s daughter every day just because I don''t have the heart to do it."


    An MeiYun finally had nothing left to say. She copsed crying to the floor, unable to regain the doting love she once had from the two people who cared for her most in this world.


    The three An brothers looked at each other. Although no one spoke, they could guess their parents must have been shocked by something in ZhiXia''s room.


    Otherwise, just yesterday when ZhiXia''s identity was confirmed, the family decision was still to let An MeiYun stay. They wouldn''t have changed their minds overnight.


    Liu Ling held her child and stood to the side. She had no intention of getting involved in this matter.


    Having been sisters-inw with An MeiYun for a few years, she understood this girl well enough. There was something rotten in her core, obedient and sensible in her inws eyes but not necessarily so to others.


    In the first two years after she married in, the little sister-inw hadn''t bullied her less, almost worse than her mother-inw Zhou Nan. Even though An MeiYun had changed somewhat these past two years, she had still caught her own son being scorned and pushed to sit on the floor.

 Chapter 20: The Trader Who wants Money for Everything.

    <h4>Chapter 20</h4>


    With the idea of maintaining family harmony, and because her inws doted on her, Liu Lingming did not dare to openly me An MeiYun for bullying her child. But that did not mean she was unaware of what was going on.


    From then on, whenever she was around, she would hold on tightly to her son and not let him get close to An MeiYun''s daughter.


    When she was at work, it was her mother-inw who looked after the child. She did not dare to tell her mother-inw not to let the boy go near An MeiYun''s daughter. Fortunately, her son was also reluctant to get close to the girl, and would rather follow Zhou Nan around like a little tail when she was busy, than y with An MeiYun''s daughter.


    It was reassuring that her inws and three younger brothers-inw were all good people. Children have the purest hearts, and can sense who likes them. He would naturally only get close to those who liked him.


    If An MeiYun could really leave this family, Liu Lingming would have less to worry about in the future. She would not have to keep worrying about her child being bullied when she was not around.


    As for the young aunt who had just returned, she seemed to like children too. But Liu Lingming did not know if it was genuine or just an act to get on her good side.


    In any case, as long as she did not bully her son, she was not the nitpicking type.


    At this time, inside An ZhiXia''s room, after An JingZhi and Zhou Nan had left, An ZhiXia had also wiped away her tears and was lying on the bed trying to calm herself down.


    She did not mean to say such sharp words to hurt them intentionally. When she hurt them, she was not feeling good inside either.


    But An MeiYun wanted to step on the whole family to climb up. Leaving her at home was like leaving a ticking time bomb that would explode sooner orter.


    After a long while, An ZhiXia finally calmed down.


    An ZhiAng knocked on the door and called her out to wash up.


    Only then did An ZhiXia get up to open the door. Other than her red-rimmed eyes, she looked quite normal.


    An ZhiAng was still very careful when he spoke to her, "Younger sister, I just went out on my bike to buy you a toothbrush. Go wash up and then sleep."


    "Thank you, fourth brother, for going through the trouble. I''ve just arrived, and don''t know which basin in the house is for washing faces, so I''ll have to trouble fourth brother to show me."


    An ZhiXia smiled sweetly. Only then did An ZhiAng breathe a sigh of relief, "Come, fourth brother will bring you there."


    Although the An Family was notcking, they had not split up the family assets. Things like food, clothing, and supplies were shared by all.


    For example, the basins for washing faces and feet, and the cups for brushing teeth, were formon use.


    Of course, because there were many family members, the quantities could not be just one each.


    Only An ZhiXian, being a medical student, was more fastidious. He had gone to buy a separate cup that he did not allow others to use. As a result, he was often ostracized by his other two brothers.


    Under An ZhiAng''s care, An ZhiXia tidied herself up before returning to her room again, locking the door as she entered.


    She was in no hurry to rest. Instead, she entered her space.


    The farming tycoon had delivered the goods to her. An ZhiXia chose to receive them. The items were automatically stored in the storage grid below. She then extracted the items from the storage grid. 20 identicalrge boxes instantly filled up the room, leaving her with barely any space to stand.


    Fortunately, simr boxes could be stacked endlessly in the storage grid. Otherwise, it would not be suitable forrge transactions without expanding the storage grid.


    An ZhiXia quickly kept half of the boxes back into the storage grid before starting to unpack them.


    The boxes sent by the farming tycoon wererge cardboard boxes. He had even thoughtfullybelled the contents with a pen. An ZhiXia opened a box of snacks, and her eyes instantly lit up.


    Potato chips, puffed snacks...


    They were all things that she could only watch enviously as others ate in her previous life, but was unable to eat herself.


    There was also arge box of various beverages. An ZhiXia took a can of c, opened it and drank a mouthful. The strange taste filled her mouth, but it tasted pretty good.


    But she knew that drinking too much of such things was bad for the body. So she only took a few sips before putting it aside.


    These things packed in boxes were food and supplies, snacks, clothes, toilet paper, and other very ordinary but practical things from the farming tycoon''s era.


    Perhaps noticing that the items sent had been received, the farming tycoon sent a message shortly after, "Ms Tycoon, are you there?"


    Ms Tycoon from the past: "Yes, I''m here. I''ve seen the things you sent. They are all very practical items. Thank you, farming tycoon."


    Farming tycoon: "It''s what I should do. Since you''re here, please receive the remaining items. Living things can''t be stored in the storage grid, otherwise they''ll die fromck of oxygen after being in there for an extended time. So you''ll need to receive them quickly and take them out."


    Ms Tycoon from the past: "No problem."


    Almost as soon as the message was sent, items started transmitting continuously from the other side.


    One pair of pigs, one pair of sheep, one pair of yellow cattle, one pair of dairy cattle, chicken, ducks, geese, rabbits - all ording to An ZhiXia''s requirements, one male and one female, in pairs.


    On An ZhiXia''s side, after receiving them, she immediately used her consciousness to transmit them outside the house. Otherwise, there was no way the house could fit so many animals.


    More supplies were then transmitted over. An ZhiXia directly said she did not need grains. The farming tycoon then sorted out some of the items he normally kept and gave them to her.


    Farming tycoon: "That''s all for now. I''ll give you the rest tomorrow."


    Ms Tycoon from the past: "Okay, see you tomorrow then."


    The two bid their goodbyes and went about their own business.


    Seeing that the icon on the post-apocalyptic side was still dark, An ZhiXia did not linger on the trading system interface. Instead, she started nning for the animals.


    She put the pigs, sheep and 4 cattle into the mountains. The remaining chickens, ducks, geese and rabbits were kept on the grasnds. There was a river not far away, perfect for the ducks and swans to swim in.


    An ZhiXia also used her consciousness to collect all the grains in the paddy fields, stacking them on the ground since there were no bags. She then scattered some of it on the grasnds to feed the chickens.


    The ducks and geese could catch fish in the river. The rabbits could eat the grass. She did not have to worry about feeding them.


    An ZhiXia thought about releasing some bugs to feed the chickens. But she was worried the bugs would multiply too quickly, resulting in a gue in her space.


    While busying herself, she did not know how much time had passed. But she felt exceptionally fulfilled and happy.


    The farming tycoon had even prepared bath buckets for her. The temperature in the room could be adjusted using the trading system interface. She turned up the temperature and prepared hot water for a bath in the house.


    Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel - those things she had been interested in but could only look at and not use in her previous life, she tried them all.


    After her bath, she put on a nightgown and happily applied skin care products.


    She had only worn one set of clothes sinceing from the countryside, and did not bring anything with her. So she would have to wear the clothes Zhou Zhi Zhi lent her again tomorrow morning.


    An ZhiXia washed her clothes clean and hung them to dry in her space. She then took out a wok, wanting to make some food for herself.


    Theplimentary house that came with the trading system only had electric stoves in the kitchen. And electricity had to be purchased with star coins.

 Chapter 21: Wrong Room

    <h4>Chapter 21</h4>


    The virtual trading system required coins for everything, what a scam.


    An ZhiXia eventually gave up on it, rare star coins were precious after all, saving them whenever possible was wise.


    As for hunger, there was an abundance of fruit in her space, enough tost her a month without eating the same thing twice.


    With a quick scan of her consciousness in the space, she saw arge patch of strawberries on the hillside, red and ripe, each as big as a fist.


    After eating three or four, An ZhiXia felt full already.


    Since there was so much fruit that she alone could not finish it all, she picked some to send to the friend she had yet to meet in the post-apocalyptic dimension.


    Hopefully they would see it as soon as they logged in, a way to make a new friend.


    She didn''t send any more to the farming tycoon since she had just given him some yesterday. Sending him more would make her gifts seem cheap.


    It was better to wait until the gifts retained their value.


    After An ZhiXia returned to bed, her freshly washed hair had mostly dried.


    Breathing in the scent of bath gel and shampoo on her skin, she rolled over contentedly and drifted off to sleep.


    When An ZhiXia awoke again, sunlight streamed through the window onto her eyelids, stinging painfully.


    She reflexively raised a hand to shield her eyes, just as she heard a knocking sound.


    The sound was not loud, stopping and starting irregrly, unlike someoneing to wake her up.


    But An ZhiXia got up anyway.


    She took out the clothes she had washed during the night from her space. With the elerated time inside, they were perfectly dry when she put them on.


    The pajamas she had taken off went back into the space, before she slipped on her shoes and went to open the door.


    Sure enough, An WenQing was leaning against the door, asionally tapping the wood with his little hand to make the knocking sound.


    Seemingly surprised to see An ZhiXia open the door, he stared with wide eyes for a moment, then shyly smiled and ran off.


    An ZhiAng had also just gotten up, his bedhead sticking out wildly. As WenQing bumped into his leg while running away, he picked up the child and immediately realized what was happening.


    "WenQing, were you looking for uncle? This is auntie''s room now. Uncle is over there with third uncle. Next time you''re looking for me, go to third uncle''s room, okay?"


    "Okay," WenQing nodded seriously, then looked back at An ZhiXia and suddenly said, "Auntie smells nice."


    An ZhiAngughed and scolded him, "This bratty kid."


    Then he walked over to An ZhiXia and did indeed smell a fragrance.


    He rubbed his nose, silently thinking to himself that it was no wonder his mother always called him a stinky kid.


    Sure enough, his sister was fragrant while he was stinky, especially when sweating.


    Even that annoying An MeiYun gave off a subtle, lingering scent at times, just not as nice as his little sister''s.


    She really was his sister, and An ZhiAng felt somewhat proud again.


    An MeiYun walked over dejectedly, her hoarse voice clearly indicating she had been crying. "Mom said to go eat breakfast."


    She looked so pitiful that even An ZhiAng, who usually poked fun at her, knew better than to say anything.


    An ZhiXia had long lost any sympathy for An MeiYun. She simply had no desire to pay her any attention.


    The rest of the An family had work and ate breakfast early before leaving for their jobs.


    It was just the two of them, unemployedyabouts who had slept inte, even little WenQing was more diligent than them.


    At first An ZhiXia felt rather embarrassed, but seeing that An ZhiAng didn''t feel embarrassed at all, she decided to go along with it.


    She secretly resolved that she could not sleep in sote again tomorrow.


    Although she didn''t grow up in this family, she shouldn''t take their service for granted.


    Zhou Nan may not have a job, but she had to care for the whole family and raise a child. An ZhiXia should help out more by getting up earlier, even if just to y with WenQing and lighten Zhou Nan''s burden.


    Zhou Nan was in the yard hangingundry she had just washed. Seeing theme out, she said, "I left breakfast in the pot for you. ZhiAng, go bring it out. There''s an egg in there for ZhiXia to nourish her health."


    An ZhiAng acknowledged and quickly washed up and went to the kitchen. He came back carrying a te of stir-fried veggies and a basket of tbreads, with a round egg on the edge.


    An ZhiXia had just finished washing up. An ZhiAng called her over to eat.


    He peeled the egg and handed it to An ZhiXia. He took a tbread for himself and started eating heartily.


    An ZhiXia had intended to give the egg to WenQing, but he refused it. Zhou Nan also said he''d had eggs this morning. So An ZhiXia ate it herself.


    The egg was very fragrant. The yolk was smooth and rich. After a few bites of the veggies, she set her chopsticks down.


    "Sis, you''re not eating anymore?" An ZhiAng asked in surprise.


    "I probably ate too muchst night and went to bed too early, so didn''t digest it all night. I''m not hungry now." She had actually been hungryst night, but the strawberries were likely why she wasn''t hungry now.


    An ZhiAng said to her, "Eating so little, how will you get nutrients?"


    Zhou Nan said from the side, "If your sister isn''t hungry, let her be. We''re going outter anyway, she can buy something tasty if hungry again."


    After eating, An ZhiXia took the initiative to clean up the dishes.


    Once she was done, Zhou Nan had finished up too.


    She wiped her hands and took off her apron, going back to her room for a moment beforeing out again saying, "Let''s go, we''ll head out for a stroll."


    An MeiYun also desperately wanted to go, but remembering An JingZhi''s wordsst night, she could only restrain herself.


    He had made it clear that An ZhiXia disliked her, and the An family was set on kicking her out. If she lingered around An ZhiXia and annoyed her, she might even lose the chance at a job. Then she''d truly have no choice but to be sent down to the countryside.


    With the Gao family gone, she couldn''t be sent somewhere close like An Le Vige anymore. If she was sent far away to some unfamiliar ce, her situation could end up even worse than her previous life.


    So she had to stay in the city, relying on An JingZhi to arrange work for her. For now, she couldn''t offend them.


    Once she was stable and the day came for her to turn things around, she swore the entire An family would pay the price for how they were treating her now.


    When they went out, Zhou Nan picked up her little grandson and kissed him, saying "WenQing, we''re going out to buy clothes for your auntie. It''ll be too tiring to hold you the whole way, so stay home and y with Aunt MeiYun, okay? When grandmaes back I''ll bring you something tasty."


    An WenQing was clearly unhappy, clinging to Zhou Nan''s neck and refusing to let go.


    At this time An ZhiXia reached out to him, "WenQing, if you want to go juste. Grandma is tired but auntie isn''t, let auntie hold you, okay?"


    Perhaps wanting toe along, WenQing didn''t reject her for the first time and let her take him into her arms.

 Chapter 22: Save Another Fortune

    <h4>Chapter 22</h4>


    Zhou Nan was unwilling to forbid him from going, but her own waist had been aching these past few days, making it hard for her to hold him. She said to An ZhiXia, "Don''t spoil him too much. The child is heavy. If you can''t carry himter, have your fourth brother piggyback him. But be sure not to force yourself."


    She was getting back pain from carrying the child, more tiring than doing chores. She hadn''t dared to casually hold him these past few days.


    An ZhiXia could only agree.


    They weren''t walking there, but riding bikes.


    Zhou Nan rode alone, with An ZhiXia behind her holding An WenQing in herp. It wasn''t tiring at all.


    The only one left at home was An MeiYun. As the culprit in the previous life who had deliberately kidnapped the child, An ZhiXia certainly wouldn''t let her watch An WenQing.


    Even if she didn''t currently have a n to kidnap the child, An MeiYun hadn''t done few things to secretly bully children in her previous life.


    An ZhiXia suspected that An WenQing''s somewhat timid personality was possibly due to An MeiYun secretly frightening him.


    The shopping center wasn''t very close. They rode for about 40 minutes before arriving.


    On the road, An ZhiAng told An ZhiXia about the fate of the Gao family, learning they would be sent for re-education after undergoing struggle sessions. She felt at ease.


    Although the Gao''s two children hadn''t been implicated, with parents like that, she believed their lives in the future wouldn''t be good either.


    In the 1970s, in addition to collective struggle sessions, there were also self-criticism meetings. As the children of bad elements, they would be frequent targets of criticism meetings in the future, especially ideological education-oriented criticism and self-reflection, enough to break them down.


    An ZhiAng spent one mao to park the bike at the entrance, then passed An WenQing over to ride on his shoulders. Judging by how smooth it looked, he must have done this frequently before.


    An WenQing hurriedly hugged his head with both hands. An ZhiAng held his arms up to grab An WenQing''s arms, and together they entered the department store along with the women.


    They had gotten upte, plus the time wasted on the road. It was now noon, so there weren''t many people in the department store.


    Zhou Nan directly led her to the second floor where clothes and shoes were sold. "ZhiXia, pick out a couple changes of clothes you like for yourself, some extra outfits to change into. Mom is going to the fabric section first to buy some fine cotton to make you some small clothes when we get back."


    The ��small clothes�� Zhou Nan referred to were underwear. An ZhiXia responded, and Zhou Nan went over.


    The fabric area was at the edge of the 2nd floor. Next to it was piled a lot of yarn. It wasn''t far from here, they could hear each other''s shouts.


    An ZhiXia earnestly looked at the clothes in the department store. There were quite a few styles, including some fresh and pretty dresses, as well as in shirts and pants.


    As a girl, An ZhiXia naturally liked dresses, but she also had self-awareness. Her current body simply wouldn''t look good in a dress, so she turned her sights to shirts and pants instead.


    An ZhiXia quickly picked two pairs of ck pants and a workman''s blue shirt, a color more resistant to dirt.


    Then she also took a blue and white striped shirt, matching two outfits, plus a pair of cloth shoes.


    Zhou Nan bought several lengths of fabric, bundling them together under her arm. Coming back to see An ZhiXia had picked out clothes, she looked them over and said, "ZhiXia has good taste. These two outfits look really nice, but they''ll probably be a bit big on you. Mom will tailor them for you when we get back before you wear them."


    In fact, the clothes An ZhiXia picked were quite ordinary. She knew that her current body wouldn��t look good in anything, so she didn''t choose exceptional ones.


    Clothes in the 1970s didn''t have standardized sizing like theter generations. Being too big or small wasmon. If you really liked something but it didn''t fit right, you could only buy it and alter it yourself. After all, hardly any women of this era didn''t know how to sew.


    "Right, go pick a dress too. Girls should look better in dresses. My ZhiXia should dress herself up beautifully. Mom brought all the ration coupons from home today, no need to save."


    An JingZhi was currently a high school principal. The private school originally established by the An family in the Republican era had now be a public school, and had expanded several times over.


    Because it wasn''t run for profit from the start, and was even praised after the founding of the country for this reason, An JingZhi had retained the position of principal all the way until now. His sry and benefits were not low.


    The An family''s eldest son was now achieving modest sess in the army, and his daughter-inw was a student taught by An JingZhi. She currently also taught at an elementary school.


    The second son worked at the same school as An JingZhi. If nothing unexpected happened, he would likely inherit An JingZhi''s position in the future. Although the third son was still an intern doctor, neither of these two sons were married, and their sry and benefits were extremely good. The ration coupons distributed by their work unit each month were basically unused, all handed over to Zhou Nan.


    So the An family''s circumstances were definitely excellent, at least not having to worry about food and clothing.


    However, An ZhiXia refused. "Mom, I wouldn''t look good in a dress in this body either. Let me nurture my health first. For now, just buying two outfits to change into will do. When I''ve gained some weight after a while, we cane back to buy."


    Zhou Nan also understood An ZhiXia''s words made sense, especially hearing that ��Mom.�� It instantly made her eyes turn moist.


    "Alright, alright, we''ll do as you say. I''ll save the rest of the money and coupons for you. When we get back, Mom will make delicious food every day to help you gain weight. Once your health is better after some time, Mom will bring you back here." Zhou Nan felt very gratified. Even though she grew up in the countryside, her daughter didn''t have a petty bourgeois attitude or shallowness.


    As for looks, there were no ugly people in their family. Her daughter''s features were also well-defined. She just needed to gain some weight and improve her skin. With some care, it would just be a matter of time to nurse her back to health.


    An ZhiAng came over from the other side still carrying An WenQing, who was holding a tambourine in one hand, asionally making muffled drumbeats.


    "Did you pick? I''ll pay today, and Mom can use the ration coupons."


    Zhou Nan still didn''t know about An ZhiAng asking his two older brothers for money. She red at him and said, "You''re still asking me for pocket money. Where do you have money to pay?"


    An ZhiAng matter-of-factly said, "Second and Third Bro gave it to me. I''m going out with my little sister, it wouldn''t look right if they didn''t contribute a little money, busy as they are."


    "You and your justifications." Zhou Nanughed. But she didn''t feel the second and third brothers would have given him much money. "The money your second and third brother gave, you can give to your little sister as pocket moneyter. She just got back and doesn''t have umted pocket money like you kids. She doesn''t have many things at home either. It''ll be more convenient if she has some money on hand when she needs to spend it. I''ll pay for the clothes today. Your dad still has his sry. Our family has money to spend."


    "That works too." An ZhiAng''s eyes turned. Wasn''t that saving him some money?


    Although it wasn''t for him, but for his little sister, he was still very happy.

 Chapter 23: Grandma and Grandpa Are Coming

    <h4>Chapter 23</h4>


    Zhou Nan picked up the cloth shoes An ZhiXia had chosen and nced at the size, saying, "ZhiXia, your shoe size is the same as your sister-inw''s. You might as well not buy cloth shoes. Go pick a pair of small leather shoes. Mom remembers your sister-inw made several new pairs of shoes recently that she hasn''t worn yet. When you get home, have her give you a pair to wear first."


    Although the family was not short on money to spend, Zhou Nan was a practical person who believed in thrift where thrift was due.


    An ZhiXia didn''t have any objections, just worried, "Wouldn''t that be too much trouble for my sister-inw?"


    "It''s no trouble. Your sister-inw isn''t a busybody either. Mom still has some old worn-out clothes at home. In a few days we''ll paste them up to make new shoes and then return them to her. It''ll be fine," Zhou Nan said casually, which showed she and her daughter-inw got along well in daily life.


    Of course, Liu Ling was a daughter-inw handpicked by An JingZhi for his precious son, so she wouldn''t have brought back someone fussy or petty to be the wife of his eldest son who held an important position in the family.


    And Zhou Nan was someone Old Master An had noticed first and brought back for his grandson.


    An ZhiXia picked out a pair of ck leather shoes size 37. Zhou Nan took them to checkout, then bought some ordinary household items. After paying, they left the department store.


    At the entrance, Zhou Nan told An ZhiAng to take An ZhiXia to buy some fried crullers while she went to the meat and vegetable stands across the way to buy ingredients.


    There were also supply and marketing cooperatives and meat and vegetable stands near their home, but the selections weren''t as plentiful as at the department store here. Plus they''d have to take a detour on the way home, so they might as well buy everything here before heading back.


    An ZhiXia ate a 7-fen sesame seed fried cruller, breaking off a piece to give to An WenQing.


    The little guy held a tambourine in one hand and ate the cruller in the other. An ZhiAng could only hold him with both hands to make sure he didn''t fall off.


    But then he ended up with a forehead full of white sesame seeds, annoying him into taking An WenQing off and deliberately smacking his little bottom.


    Zhou Nan came back carrying a pork belly, also holding green onions and bok choy in her hands. Seeing them, she said, "Anything else you need to buy? If not, let''s head home. When your dad gets back tonight, he can take you to see your paternal grandparents. You should let them know you''re back."


    "I don''t need anything else," An ZhiXia said.


    Only then did Zhou Nan say, "Then let''s go home."


    Zhou Nan put all the purchased items into bags, leaving the fabrics and clothes loose. An ZhiXia still held An WenQing as she sat on the back of An ZhiAng''s bike.


    As soon as they entered the yard, they saw two bicycles still parked there.


    An MeiYun walked out of the house looking unhappy. "Mom, Grandpa and Grandma came over, and JianGuo gege came too."


    Old Madam An had never liked her granddaughter An MeiYun much. As a child she thought her unruly and mischievous; in recent years she disapproved of her improper fawning over certain people.


    These certain people referred to those An MeiYun knew from her previous life would be more sessful.


    An JingZhi hadn''t returned yet. When Zhou Nan heard the old master and madam hade, she panicked in an instant.


    She was the granddaughter-inw chosen by the old master for his grandson, but the old master and madam had looked down on her lowly background from the start. They were neither warm nor cool to her.


    Later, after the founding of PRC, the An family donated their assets and declined greatlypared to before. Plus her own three generations of peasant background yed a role, along with the birth of several children, so the old madam finally warmed up to her a bit.


    But even now, she was still somewhat apprehensive about seeing the old madam.


    "Auntie and ZhiAng are back?" Pei JianGuo also walked out from inside the house, greeting them with a smile. His gaze suddenlynded on An ZhiXia and his expression didn''t change. "This must be the newly found ZhiXia sister they mentioned. She really does resemble Auntie."


    Seeing Pei JianGuo there too, Zhou Nan rxed somewhat.


    Although strange things were happening in the family, with an outsider present, the old master and madam shouldn''t scold her, right?


    She just had to get through this moment. When the children''s father got back, he could handle everything.


    So Zhou Nan weed Pei JianGuo very warmly.


    An ZhiXia didn''t speak. She recognized this Pei JianGuo. As a soul following An MeiYun those years, she had heard An MeiYun mention him more than once. In the life where neither of them had reincarnated yet, Pei JianGuo would be her husbandter on.


    Unlike the An family, the Pei family was grassroots. Old Pei relied on military achievements to establish a foothold in Jin City. Back when they were still fighting wars, he frequently went to the An family for grain and money.


    Old Master An greatly admired Old Pei at the time, and the two addressed each other as nephews.


    Thus the two families had been acquainted for generations.


    Nowadays, Old Pei had retired and lived next door to Old Master An.


    Come to think of it, when Old Master An first joined the army, Old Pei was the one who rmended him. The two were battlepanions and great friends.


    From An MeiYun''s mouth, An ZhiXia knew Pei JianGuo himself had no great prospects. As the only grandson of his generation in the Pei family, he was doted on to the point of spoiling. Currently he just relied on his family connections to get an office job as a secretary.


    But Pei JianGuo also had a young uncle, not many years older than him. When Old Pei took his two sons off to the revolution, he left his wife alone to serve the elders. So this youngest son was born muchter after the couple reunited, and had a big age gap with the older two.


    This young uncle of Pei JianGuo''s was truly outstanding, having reached a high position in the army at a young age. Later he was discharged due to injury and became a factory director at a steel nt. When the reform and opening up came, he rose with the tide and became a prominent figure in economics.


    Unfortunately, due to health reasons, he never married or had children his whole life. He passed away before fifty, leaving arge inheritance to his nephew Pei JianGuo.


    Pei JianGuo had lived in obscurity his whole life, but suddenly inherited a fortune in his forties and became rich overnight. That kind of sudden wealth easily goes to one''s head. Add in the openness of the times, and he kept several mistresses outside.


    But he was too stupid to hold onto the wealth and ended up conned badly.


    In An MeiYun''s eyes, An ZhiXia was lucky because she had a good son who took over Pei JianGuo''s businesses and turned the situation around when the opportunity arose.


    After taking such a huge fall, Pei JianGuo also settled down and continued the obscure life he''d lived in the first half of his days, relying on his uncle in the early years and his son inter years.


    An MeiYun thought An ZhiXia was weak because even after Pei JianGuo did such a thing, she could still tolerate staying married to him.


    Indeed, it was weak of her; even An ZhiXia herself felt so.


    But to be fair, as soon as An MeiYun reincarnated, she used her foreknowledge to bring about An ZhiXia''s death, then strung Pei JianGuo along to be one of the fish in her pond, clearly envious of the wealthy madam life she''d had in her previous life.

 Chapter 24: Watch out the Machine Failed Again

    <h4>Chapter 24</h4>


    An MeiYun was still hesitating about stringing along Pei JianGuo only because Pei JianGuo became sessfulter on, and even then it was thanks to someone else. Plus, she had other good options at hand.


    She actually wanted to lead Pei Jing on more, but unfortunately Pei Jing didn''t care for her.


    An ZhiXia, who already knew Pei JianGuo was no good, naturally wanted to keep her distance from him.


    But An MeiYun seemed determined to convince her that she would be interested in Pei JianGuo. She deliberately unted her position in front of An ZhiXia, looking at Pei JianGuo coyly, bashfully. Pei JianGuo also had some good feelings towards An MeiYun because of her changes in this life, so the flirting nces between them made outsiders think they were exchanging loving looks.


    Zhou Nan didn''t care to watch any of this. She took the things and hurried into the room.


    The Old Master and Old Madam were sitting in the main hall on the grandmaster chairs, their faces somber.


    Zhou Nan ingratiated herself and called out, "Dad, Mom, howe you came over without any notice?"


    The An Family elders lived alone, with maids and security guards at home. They almost never came to this side, it was always the younger generation who went to visit them.


    After all, she was his daughter-inw, so Old Master rarely lost his temper with Zhou Nan, but this time he was frustrated to the point of anger. "If we hadn''te over, when were you nning on telling us about this?"


    Old Master looked at her, his sharp gaze made Zhou Nan dare not even raise her head.


    An ZhiAng hugged An WenQing and walked in, deliberately putting An WenQing into Old Master''s arms, saying, "Grandpa, don''t me my mom for this either. No one wanted this to happen, my mom is a victim too. If you want to me someone, you can only me the malicious Gao Family, or me our own family. If my mom hadn''t been pregnant with my sibling and me while no one in the family was around, how could they have had the opportunity to switch my sister?"


    Pei JianGuo also advised, "Yes, Grandpa An, don''t me Auntie. No one wants their child to be switched by others. Auntie is also a victim here. If we want to me someone, we should me those people who harmed others."


    At this point, Old Master also sighed and put away his stern expression.


    Although the An Family had some issues that led to Zhou Nan being sent back to her maiden home to recuperate during her pregnancy, ultimately, they were still negligent in taking care of their pregnant daughter-inw, so the An Family bore some responsibility.


    Seeing that Old Master''s anger had subsided, Old Madam finally stood up and looked at An ZhiXia who had just entered. "This is ZhiXia who was just found? She really looks like your mom. Come here and let Grandma take a look..."


    Old Madam held out her hand. An ZhiXia hurried over and ced her little hand in hers.


    Old Madam surreptitiously looked it over, but gripped her hand with some force, then smiled again. "Good girl. How are you adjusting to being back home? Do you want toe stay with Grandma for a few days?"


    An MeiYun was furious. When she was little, she hated going to those two old fogies. She always felt they reeked of old people smell, it was revolting.


    After being reborn thesest two years, she had deliberately tried to curry favor with them, but this old hag wouldn''t even give her a kind look. Yet she extended an invitation as soon as newly-returned An ZhiXia arrived.


    But she didn''t dare say anything now. She could only try to minimize her presence as much as possible.


    An ZhiXia would never disdain her own grandmother. She smiled and said maybe in a few days, after all, having just returned, she was still unfamiliar with her own home.


    Old Madam didn''t insist, just said she coulde anytime she wanted, and to have her fourth brother take her.


    With Pei JianGuo still here, Old Master and Old Madam didn''t want to lose face in front of an outsider, fortunately there was still An WenQing, this little mood-lifter.


    Zhou Nan said she was going to cook, her husband and second son, along with daughter-inw, were alling back to eat at noon. Only third son was too busy at the hospital toe back for lunch.


    Pei JianGuo also hurriedly took his leave. He still had things on his mind. Old Master didn''t keep him.


    An MeiYun had deliberately asked Pei JianGuo toe so he could see An ZhiXia. She refused to believe Pei JianGuo would still be attracted to the now thin and sallow An ZhiXia.


    In their previous lives, the two families had arranged for them to meet after An ZhiXia had recovered her health and undergone great changes in both appearance and temperament.


    In this life, she wasn''t even giving An ZhiXia time to change. Even if she herself looked down on An ZhiXia, she still didn''t want Pei JianGuo to marry An ZhiXia again.


    Originally, she had nned to act intimate with Pei JianGuo to make An ZhiXia feel hopeless and give up, but she hadn''t expected these two old fogies to show up too, preventing her from making an appearance.


    Old Madam asked some questions and An ZhiXia answered them all. Seeing the two elders ying with An WenQing, An ZhiXia said she was going to the kitchen to help Zhou Nan cook.


    An ZhiXia knew Zhou Nan had bought meat, and also a fish that had been salted since yesterday.


    The two chickens and duck were stillying eggs in the morning, so Zhou Nan said it would be a pity to kill them now. She had made a cage for them in the corner of the yard to raise for now.


    After all, Zhou Nan had never formally studied cooking. She could only make some home-style dishes. They weren''t bad tasting, but they weren''t delicious either. An ZhiXia had realized thisst night at dinner.


    An ZhiXia had followed a young chef for several years before her rebirth. She had wanted to try cooking herself for a long time.


    Of course, she wanted to eat good food even more, but that meant she had to make it first.


    Walking into the kitchen, she saw Zhou Nan had just finished washing the pork belly.


    "Mom, what are you nning to make with it?" An ZhiXia asked.


    "I''ll slice the meat. I''ll stir-fry it with some green pepperster. There''s also the fish left over from yesterday that was salted for a day so it''s not fresh anymore. I''ll braise it in sauceter. Your grandpa and grandma are here today too, so I''ll stir-fry a big te of greens, and make some hand-made noodles. Your grandpa loves those, but your grandma doesn''t know how to make them. She came from a prestigious family back then. After all the family chefs and servants were dismissedter, your grandma really struggled to adjust for quite some time."


    Recalling the past, Zhou Nan was filled withplex emotions.


    When she had first married into the family, the An''s still had stewards and maids. She didn''t have to do anything all day long, just waited for people to serve her.


    But the good days onlysted a few years. After the founding of the nation, that way of life was no longer encouraged. Equality for all was promoted, so Old Master dismissed all the servants and donated away all the family fortune. He even sold the old family estate when donating airnes to the country back then.


    Although it was somewhat heartbreaking to think back on it now, Old Master had shown great foresight.


    Otherwise, the family might have been branded capitalists by now, who knows where they would be undergoing reform.


    So despite living more simply nowpared to before, at least the family was safe and stable. Compared to most families, theirs was still much better off.


    "Mom, it''s too much work for you to cook alone. Why don''t I make the meat dish, and you can make the noodles?" An ZhiXia suggested. As for An MeiYun, in order to minimize her presence, she had already quietly snuck back to her own room.


    Even two years ago when she was still reckless and bold, not knowing her true origins, she had still feared Old Master and Old Madam. After all, the elders had never indulged her. An JingZhi could tolerate her willfulness, but would not tolerate her disrespect towards elders.

 Chapter 25: A Good Misunderstanding

    <h4>Chapter 25</h4>


    "Can you?" Zhou Nan was very aware of the conditions in the countryside. Her natal family, the Zhou family, was already considered to be quite well-off. And with her asional financial assistance, they could afford to cut two slices of meat into small pieces and mix it with vegetables to impart some meaty vor.


    Let alone the Gao family. Neither of those two were diligent workers. Zhou Nan did not believe they could even afford to eat meat.


    An ZhiXia directly proved it with action. "Let me make some braised pork for you all. If mom is worried that I''m wasting the meat, she can keep an eye on me."


    She took the meat and knife, and sliced the meat into finger-width strips.


    Initially she was not very skilled at it. After all, this was her first time actually preparing it, despite miming it before.


    But soon, she handled the knife more smoothly.


    She had intended to cut square pieces, but there was not enough time to simmer it thoroughly before mealtime. Slicing it enabled faster stewing.


    Usually cooking for arge household made Zhou Nan rushed and frenzied no matter the task. Between housework and childcare, she did everything in a hurry to save time.


    Naturally, this meant she was not very meticulous, and her cooking was just passable.


    Like now, when it was time to start cooking, there was no green onion or ginger.


    Fortunately there was white sugar in the house. She caramelized it for color.


    She had wanted to show off her culinary skills, but had made assumptions. There was only salt and soy sauce for seasoning, not even chili or spices.


    Even the Shaoxing wine for removing fishy smells was reced by the Baijiu liquor An JingZhi had leftover.


    Watching An ZhiXia grow increasingly adept, Zhou Nan sank into thought.


    She firmly believed the impoverished Gao family could not afford meat. But this girl clearly had more experience handling meat than even herself. She must have cooked it many times before.


    She had only returned for two days, five including her time at the Zhou house.


    Where had she cooked it if not at the Gao house?


    How did the Gao family even have meat?


    An MeiYun had known about her background two years prior and reconnected with the Gao family...


    Some things really could not withstand scrutiny.


    Zhou Nan could never have imagined her daughter was someone who had died and drifted for a whole century. A hundred years was plenty of time to learn far too much.


    Some things, An ZhiXia herself had forgotten. Perhaps one day when she reencountered them, she would suddenly remember that she knew how to do this before.


    Zhou Nan assumed An MeiYun must have provided for the Gao family these past two years. She had nevercked excuses to ask her for money in the past.


    In truth, while An MeiYun was of a higher ss than the Gao family, she was far from what Zhou Nan imagined.


    The only reason she helped the Gao family was to get them to deal with An ZhiXia. Plus grooming some capable subordinates.


    And she kept some for herself too. When she returned after rebirth, she made contingencies, like eliminating An ZhiXia and stashing away money for herself.


    If her earlier ns failed, the money would be her biggest safety.


    The meaty aromas were already being coaxed out. An ZhiXia added ample water and started simmering it.


    Turning back, Zhou Nan was still standing there motionless.


    "Mom, didn''t you say you were going to make hand-pulled noodles?"


    "Oh, right, I''ll make them now." Zhou Nan hurriedly went to find a basin to mix flour and make noodles, but her mind was still preupied with An MeiYun and the Gao family, and she felt awful.


    An ZhiXia could tell her mother was distracted, assuming it was worry over being scolded by the elders.


    More than half an hourter, An JingZhi and the others returned. All three were teachers, though Liu Ling taught elementary school, so their dismissal times were simr.


    An JingZhi could smell it as soon as he entered. "What a nice aroma...smells like braised pork?"


    He was puzzled. After so many years together, he knew his wife''s cooking ability best. He had even tried learning himself for a period, but the meals always turned out much the same.


    Pork was only ever sliced and stir-fried with chili peppers, or sometimes stir-fried garlic sprouts. Chicken and fish were only stewed for soup, which she said suited arge household and prevented shortage.


    There were many chores at home. She had looked after their son before, now their grandson. Everything relied on her, and she was already exhausted enough. An JingZhi could not make too many demands of her.


    Nowadays, being able to eat their fill was considered a good life.


    But today''s meaty aroma reminded him of the fine cuisine the family chefs had made when he was still young master.


    "Trust your nose." Zhou Nan happened to emerge from the kitchen then. "Go wash your hands and get ready for dinner. The food will be done soon."


    After speaking, she deliberately approached and exchanged looks with An JingZhi. "Dad and mom are in the room. They already know about ZhiXia''s return."


    An JingZhi''s previously rxed expression immediately tensed up. He asked her, "Did dad and mom give you and ZhiXia a hard time?"


    "Dad was a bit angry that we hid such a big thing from them, but I think mom actually quite likes ZhiXia." Zhou Nan said.


    "That''s good then. You go prepare the food, I''ll go see how dad and mom are first." The old master was reasonable when angry. As a grown man, as long as old madam was not upset, it would not be a big issue.


    His mother was ady from a wealthy family. She had looked down on his wife from the start. Though he had not been fond of her initially either. But after so many years and children, what needed reconciling had long been reconciled.


    Zhou Nan was of poor origins, but capable and uining. With the dismissal of the servants years prior, and old madam''s distaste for menial work, Zhou Nan was kept plenty busy.


    As men grew older, they understood more. Finding a wife able to keep a household was crucial.


    He had not understood the old master''s wisdom initially. But after the family''s decline, the merger of public and private enterprises into full public ownership, An JingZhi finally grasped his grandfather''s wisdom and foresight.


    Someone like old madam, pleasant on the surface with elegant speech and conduct, to be blunt, without the old master''s status and the guards and maid to care for them after retirement, the old couple likely could not even eat a hot meal.


    An JingZhi did not resent his own mother, he judged the situation impartially.


    The food was quickly set on the table. The whole family was present. Old master and madam sat in the principal seats, not saying anything.


    Zhou Nan took a bowl and set some side dishes for An WenQing, then went to feed him. An MeiYun also emerged from her room and silently sat in the lowest seat.


    Knowing old madam''s age and adherence to etiquette, An JingZhi used the public chopsticks to ce meat in her bowl. "Dad, mom, this meat today was made by ZhiXia. Try it and see how the taste is."


    Old master loved hand-pulled noodles, but old madam disliked them. At home, it was inconvenient to make two meals lest it get out they were adhering to the old ways and exploiting themon people.


    Zhou Nan had long ced the noodles before him, paired with the other dishes on the table, clearly made specially for him.


    He did not vocalize it, but was satisfied with his daughter-inw''s filial consideration. And regretted his own cold reception initially, and re of temper.


    He had only just heard about this switched child situation at home. It seemed too preposterous.


    To raise someone else''s child unknowingly, while one''s own flesh and blood suffered hardships in the countryside, he had been incensed upon first hearing about it.

 Chapter 26: Have a Plan

    <h4>Chapter 26</h4>


    Old Master slurped his noodles and savored the meat his son had picked for him.


    "This child''s cooking skills are quite good."


    Old Master had a discerning pte, having lived afortable life in the past. After all these years, Zhou Nan''s handmade noodles were the only thing that impressed Old Master.


    However, calling it excellent would be an overstatement.


    Compared to the noodles he had enjoyed in his youth, the broth back then was made from specially simmered chicken stock, cooked for several hours.


    The current conditions couldn''tpare, so having a tasty and satisfying meal was already considered good enough. One must learn to be content.


    "Grandfather, as long as you like it." An ZhiXia knew very well that Old Master was praising her out of courtesy.


    After all, her status was there for everyone to see. She had seen plenty of good things in her life. Moreover, due to theck of seasonings at home, even if she was skilled, the taste would still becking.


    Liu Ling finished eating the quickest and hurriedly went to see the children, allowing Zhou Nan to join for the meal.


    An WenQing was still young, and Old Madam was quite particr, afraid that she would behave improperly at the table.


    The rule of not speaking during meals and bedtime was not strictly enforced on normal asions, but with Old Master and Old Madam present, no one dared to speak except for Old Master himself.


    After finishing the meal, An MeiYun took the initiative to clean up the dishes and utensils.


    In her heart, she cursed the two old people, but she was still afraid of them.


    When she was cooking, she hid in her room and didn''t dare toe out. An ZhiXia, on the other hand, would find opportunities to show off. An MeiYun hadn''t seen her in the kitchen before, but she coincidentally helped with cooking when the two old people arrived. It was a deliberate act to make herself appear diligent inparison.


    An MeiYun was afraid that if she acted as the boss and left after finishing the meal, Old Madam mighte up with some scheme against her.


    In the past, Old Madam always found fault with her. She didn''t know what she had done to offend her. She had tried her best to please her in these years, but she still couldn''t win Old Madam''s heart.


    An MeiYun didn''t know that Old Madam had lived a whole lifetime and had seen all kinds of people during the heyday of the Gao Family. She thought she was pretending well, but her little schemes were still transparent to Old Madam.


    Old Master looked at An JingZhi and said, "Go to the study. I have something to ask you."


    An JingZhi nodded, and Old Madam followed him.


    Liu Ling nced at Zhou Nan secretly and felt somewhat puzzled. Even though the Gao Family had been prestigious in the past, now everyone was equal. The era ofndlords and wealthy people had long passed.


    Moreover, after so many years of being married into the family, with several children having grown up, Old Master and Old Madam still looked down on her, never consulting her on important matters.


    On the other hand, Zhou Nan seemed relieved that she wasn''t called.


    Dealing with her mother-inw was always a headache, especially her elegant and noble demeanor despite her old age, which always made her feel immense pressure.


    The study in the An family wasn''trge because there were many people in the household, and the rooms were barely enough. The study was the smallest one avable.


    An JingZhi knew what Old Master wanted to discuss, so he closed the study door as soon as he entered.


    There were only two chairs in the study, and Old Master and Old Madam took their seats, leaving him to stand.


    "How do you n to handle the situation between Mei Yun and Zhi Xia?" Old Master asked directly.


    "The Gao family has already dealt with it. The couple will never have a chance to make aeback in their lifetime. We bought the person who was involved with Zhi Xia from the Gao couple. To protect Zhi Xia''s reputation, we can''t let this matter be exposed. We can only make him pay through other means. I found out that this man had previously killed a wife, so I n to use that as leverage..." An JingZhi, who had been the principal for many years, had taught numerous students and had umted a significantwork of connections. Sometimes, the oue of a situation depended on the words of those in power.


    Old Master patiently listened and nodded. "You handled that well. But what about the two children? What are your thoughts on that?"


    An JingZhi didn''t hide anything from his biological father. "Originally, I nned to raise both children. After all, our family can afford it. However, Zhi Xia disagreed. She has suffered a great deal over the years, and we can''t ignore her wishes. I thought of finding a job for Mei Yun so she could live outside temporarily, and then..."


    "Nonsense!" Before he could finish, Old Master interrupted him.


    Old Madam nced at him lightly. "The idea of keeping both children at home, was that your wife''s idea?"


    An JingZhi quickly took the responsibility upon himself. "It was also my idea. Mei Yun has called me ''Dad'' for so many years, and she was just a child back then. I couldn''t bear to do it, so I came up with this n."


    "It''s a terrible idea." Old Master didn''t give him any face. "Your raised daughter isn''t someone without her own ideas. She''s resolute in wanting to drive Mei Yun away. And my granddaughter, she doesn''t seem easy to deceive either. If she had no backbone, it would mean she was truly ruined by the Gao family. It''s not so easy to change someone who is weak-willed."


    An JingZhi sighed and exined, "It was just a thought I had before. Zhi Xia disagreed, so I nned to let Mei Yun live outside by arranging a job for her. After all, Zhi Xia is the one who has suffered the most."


    "That''s why I said you were being foolish." Old Master looked at him disapprovingly. "Even if you arrange a job for her and have her live nearby in Jin Cheng, she''ll still be close. After raising her for so many years, can you bear to drive her away? If you continue like this in the long run, both girls will feel ufortable, and problems will arise. Both of your children will be displeased, and it won''t end well. Jing Zhi, you''ve been teaching students for so many years, but you don''t understand the thoughts of young girls?"


    "He''s not clueless. He''s just caught in a dilemma now and taking it step by step," Old Madam thought to herself. This was amon w among parents. Whoever could bear it more would bear a little more. As long as things didn''t escte, it would be fine.


    Otherwise, An Jingzhi wouldn''t have agreed to let An Meiyun move out when he saw that An Zhixia didn''t agree to have her stay at home. It was clear that he had already prepared for both possibilities and was testing Zhixia''s reaction.


    It''s evident that this child is not someone who readily submits to others.


    An Jingzhi felt his thoughts being urately described and felt helpless. "Mom, Dad, please don''t make fun of me. Just say what you think." These past two days had been difficult enough for him.


    "In this world, there''s never a perfect solution. In crucial moments, you must make choices; otherwise, you''ll risk getting caught in a dilemma," Old Master said, looking at him with a serious tone.


    "So, Dad''s implying..." An Jingzhi also understood. It seems that Old Master had already made some ns, both spoken and unspoken.

 Chapter 27: The Speed of Face Change is a shame not to act.

    <h4>Chapter 27</h4>


    "The recent situation is not very good. In order to move up, those ideological people are making trouble all the time, holding chicken feathers as arrows everywhere, pulling everyone''s pigtails. I thought that our several children all have jobs, and none of them have gone to the countryside. It''s too conspicuous."


    An JingZhi was clever enough. As soon as Old Master said this, he immediately understood, "Dad means to let An MeiYun go to the countryside as an educated youth?"


    Old Master''s gaze was deep. "Has An ZhiXia''s household registration been transferred back yet?"


    "No, I just picked her up yesterday. It takes time to go through the process, and both Gao Family were arrested, so I need to go to their production team to get a certificate to transfer the rural household registration to an urban one."


    Although it wasn''t too far away, it wasn''t easy to change a rural household registration to an urban one.


    "Then don''t transfer the household registration for the time being. Just get by for a while before we talk about it. Although our family doesn''t need to send our children to the countryside given our circumstances, being an educated youth is more honorable. Many young children have volunteered to go to the countryside. Our family can''t show no support at all."


    Old Master''s intention was very clear. Educated youths going to the countryside needed to first change their urban household registration to a rural one.


    An ZhiXia currently still had a rural household registration, so of course she didn''t need to go to the countryside again.


    So this educated youth quota could only be between An MeiYun and An ZhiAng. And An ZhiAng was his own son.


    It had to be said, Old Master was very calcting.


    After a while, he could transfer An ZhiXia��s household registration back. Her job would also be taken care of. By then there would be someone in the family who had gone to the countryside, so no one could pick on them.


    Old Madam came out first, just as An ZhiXia was ying with An WenQing, while Zhou Nan and Liu Ling were also on the side.


    She walked over with a benevolent smile. "ZhiXia, go stay at Granny''s for a few days in a couple days. My granddaughter is so pretty, she''s just too thin. Granny will feed you well and make you beautiful and plump."


    "Okay, I''ll really go in a few days. Granny don''t dislike me." Old Madam liked delicate little girls. It was just that An MeiYun had never been favored since she was little. She had changed a bit these two years, but her deliberate ingratiation still made people feel it was too fake, so Old Madam still didn��t really like her.


    On the other hand, those girls from the Pei family made her quite envious, but after all they weren''t her own blood, so there was ayer of separation. And their own grandmother was still around, so Old Madam couldn��t cross that line.


    This newly found little granddaughter looked pretty good. She just needed some good nurturing.


    Especially her brows and eyes. They were so beautiful.


    Old Madam held An ZhiXia��s hand. Anyone could see her satisfaction.


    Old Master and An JingZhi finished their conversation in the study and came out. Old Master didn''t show anything, but An JingZhi had a somber face. No one knew if he had been scolded or not.


    Old Master and Old Madam left, and Zhou Nan whispered to An ZhiXia, "Your granny had another young daughter before, who was born during the warlord era and didn''t survive. I heard your aunt looks a lot like your granny. Your brows and eyes are also like your granny��s, so they probably look like your aunt too. But don��t mention any of this in front of your granny, lest you upset her."


    She was giving her a heads up in advance, so the girl wouldn''t make the same mistake An MeiYun did before.


    She still remembered when she first brought the child back, Old Madam had also liked An MeiYun. But the girl was unruly since she was little, and she loved to keep things to herself. She would throw tantrums if she didn''t get what she wanted.


    Old Madam still had some belongings left by her young sister. When An MeiYun was little, she had rummaged through Old Madam''s wardrobe and found a very beautiful dress. She fussed until she got to wear it herself. It took a lot of coaxing to get her to take it off.


    But then the girl, she went and cut up the dress. She also ripped up a photo tucked in a book. That photo was one Old Madam would look at every night before going to bed.


    It was from that point on that Old Madam never held An MeiYun again, and didn''t want her toe over either.


    At that time, An MeiYun was only three or four years old. She probably doesn''t even remember what she did when she was little. Of course, Zhou Nan and An JingZhi wouldn''t deliberately bring it up to her.


    So all the way until now, she still didn''t understand why Old Madam didn''t like her.


    An JingZhi called Zhou Nan back to their room, probably to discuss things.


    Liu Ling left for work after giving An ZhiXia two pairs of shoes and two jars of Hallyu oil. "ZhiXia, these are the shoes Mom told me to bring you, and this Hallyu oil I bought passing by the supply and marketing cooperative. Sister-inw sent it for you to use to wipe your hands and face."


    She saw the girl''s hands were rougher than her mother-inw''s, so she bought this.


    "Thank you, sister-inw. I''ll ept them." An ZhiXia naturally wouldn''t reject them, and would remember this kindness.


    After Liu Ling left, An ZhiAng took An WenQing out to y.


    Sitting in the living room, she could vaguely hear Zhou Nan''s muffled sobsing from the master bedroom. Very suppressed.


    An MeiYun came out after tidying up the kitchen. She saw An ZhiXia gazing into the distance, seemingly lost in thought.


    She sat across from An ZhiXia. Listening to Zhou Nan''s crying, she sneered and asked An ZhiXia, "Mom and Dad don''t feel good about kicking me out either, even if they don''t say it. They can''t just forget their feelings for me over so many years. Sister ZhiXia, the past is in the past. Let''s live well in this family, enjoying Dad, Mom, and brothers'' love and care. Isn''t it good to be obedient daughters to our parents, and gentle sisters to our brothers? Why must we make things so ugly? Making everyone feel bad, and gaining nothing for ourselves. Is this really what you want?"


    "You say the past is in the past because in this matter, you were the beneficiary from the start. So what right do you have to say everything is in the past? On the contrary, for me, some things can never be in the past." An ZhiXia''s mind did not stir up any ripples from her words. On the contrary, she remained calm and collected as she said, "Also, it''s not me making things so shameful, but the matter itself is already shameful."


    As for why it was shameful, of course it was because they were too greedy.


    Perhaps knowing she could no longer gain An ZhiXia''s affection, and there was no one else around, she simply dropped the act.


    An MeiYun raised her brows, seeming intrigued. "Since Sister ZhiXia has this mindset, then we really can''t peacefully coexist."


    The sound of the door opening could be heard. An MeiYun''s words also began to change. "I really wanted to honor our parents together with Sister ZhiXia. I know you don''t like me. I can also leave. I just hope that after I leave, Sister ZhiXia can let go of her prejudices, and not keep immersing herself in hatred. Hatred will only amplify the evil in our hearts. After all, we still have a long life ahead. Living our own lives well is the most important. I also hope sister can live well in the future."


    Her ability to switch faces, if she didn''t be an actress in herter life, it would really be a waste.

 Chapter 28: Sell the poor

    <h4>Chapter 28</h4>


    Zhou Nan and An JingZhi happened toe out and heard this part. An MeiYun''s evasive attitude really made people misunderstand.


    In addition, having just learned that the Old Master was preparing to send An MeiYun to the countryside, the guilt towards An ZhiXia at this time was all pressed at the bottom of her heart, and she felt more and more distressed about An MeiYun.


    An ZhiXia also didn''t expect that Zhou Nan, who had taken good care of her at noon, would turn around and stand on the opposite side with An MeiYun, "ZhiXia, mother knows you''ve been wronged. Everyone in the family is trying their best topensate you. MeiYun is also being forced away by you. Isn''t that enough? What more do you want? Why don''t you say it all at once and parents will try their best to satisfy you?"


    An ZhiXia was stunned and lowered her eyes.


    She had known for a long time that the affection of 18 years of upbringing and living together every day could not bepletely offset just because she was the biological one.


    But when it really came to this point, she still couldn''t control the disappointment that welled up in her heart.


    Looking up, she saw An MeiYun wink yfully at her from behind Zhou Nan.


    How ironic.


    An ZhiXia felt calmer in an instant.


    Perhaps realizing that she was too agitated, Zhou Nan added dejectedly, "ZhiXia, one can''t be too greedy or too selfish. MeiYun only has a few days left at home. Mom only hopes that you two can get along peacefully from now on, okay?"


    An ZhiXia''s mouth curved slightly. "Mom said I was greedy and selfish, but how are you not greedy and selfish?


    "The people who got hurt are not you, so you can casually dismiss everything with ��it''s over'', never mind, you don''t want to think about it so you don''t have to, but what right do you have to ask me to be like you?


    "I can''t do it, nor do I want to.


    "You pushed the responsibility of driving An MeiYun away onto me, just because you don''t want to admit your own ruthlessness.


    "You feel guilty for losing me and want topensate me, but you can''t bear to give up the 18 years of mother-daughter affection between you and An MeiYun. How are you not greedy?


    "In fact, you are the greediest. I just made you make a choice, but you want everything without taking any responsibility, ming it all on me forcing you to make a choice. How are you not selfish?"


    Zhou Nan was speechless for a long time, staring nkly at An ZhiXia.


    She seemed not to have expected that her daughter, who had been silent and introverted since she came back, would be so articte and leave her with no rebuttal.


    Or perhaps it was because she was struck by the truth, so she felt ashamed.


    Even An JingZhi''s old face reddened.


    What the Old Master said was right. Wanting everything often ends up with nothing. Making necessary sacrifices is the only way to minimize losses.


    These two daughters can only keep one. Otherwise there will be no peace in this family.


    "The Old Master wants MeiYun to be sent down to the countryside. Do you know what being sent down to the countryside means? It means running to the rural areas thousands of miles away to farm thend, not knowing when you cane back." Zhou Nan said woodenly.


    "So what?" An ZhiXia asked. "Are you telling me that he is pitiful and needs my sympathy? But it seems you have forgotten that I grew up in the countryside since I was little. I know what life is like in the countryside. Moreover,pared to other people''s simple lives, I had to endure an extra torment that did not originally belong to me, yet I still lived like this for so many years, didn''t I?"


    How could she possibly pity An MeiYun?


    Zhou Nan was at aplete loss for words. An MeiYun, however, was very flustered. "Mom, what are you talking about? What going down to the countryside? Dad said he would arrange a job for me to stay in Jincheng, didn''t he?"


    Afraid that Zhou Nan would not speak, An JingZhi hurriedly said, "Your mother doesn''t know what she''s talking about. It wasn''t your grandfather who wanted to send you to the countryside. It''s just that the current situation is such that many children from high-ranking officials'' families have also voluntarily signed up to go down to the countryside to support national construction. Our family doesn''t have any children who have gone down yet. The leadership at the Thought Reform Committee has been working very tightly recently. Our family can''t be too exceptional either, so someone has to go down to countryside."


    An MeiYun couldn''t help but think of her previous life. Her family had not been greatly affected then either. So after some connections were pulled, she was sent down to the nearby Anle Vige.


    Therefore, she did not feel it was a pity that An ZhiXia had failed and the Gao Family had also copsed in this life.


    Now that the Gao Family was gone, they certainly could not let her go down nearby. It seemed that things were even worse this time, that they wanted to send her far away.


    In her previous life, even when she was under the Gao Family''s nose, she could still be mistreated. This time, being sent far away, wouldn''t she be even more isted and helpless?


    After scheming so much and making preparations two years in advance, she still failed at every step. How could An MeiYun possibly be willing to ept this?


    "Dad, you promised to find me a job. You can''t go back on it. I don''t want to go down to the countryside. I''m scared, Dad..." An MeiYun was really afraid, because the experience from her previous life had left her with deep shadows.


    An JingZhi felt bad too, but the Old Master was a man who valued lineage.


    MeiYun had upied 18 years of ZhiXia''s life. Now letting her go down to the countryside using the An family''s quota was a responsibility she should bear.


    Life was not perfect. There must be gains and losses.


    At the beginning, the Gao Family only thought of turning their daughter into a city dweller to enjoy riches and glory. They probably didn''t expect that, after so many years, the country woulde up with a policy to send city folks down to the countryside to support national construction.


    An JingZhi said, "MeiYun, you''re not the only one who has to go down to the countryside. Your parents won''t neglect you either. Compared to other families, you will at least have advantages in food, clothing, and treatment. What are you afraid of?"


    "The An family doesn''t have just me as a child. You make it sound so nice only because I''m not your birth daughter!" So the past pampering had all disappeared. On the contrary, they were trying every means to get rid of her and push her into the fiery pit. "If it''s really as you said, then Fourth Brother and ZhiXia are also the An family''s children, aren''t they?"


    So why should she shoulder this responsibility alone?


    "Your Fourth Brother has already prepared to join the army. Joining the army and going down to the countryside to support construction are the same, both contributing to our country. As for ZhiXia..." An JingZhi nced at An ZhiXia, "ZhiXia''s household registration is still in Anle Vige. She was originally from the countryside, so of course she doesn''t need to go down again."


    "Then can I go down nearby, to Anle Vige or Grandma''s ce? Dad, don''t send me to such a faraway ce alone. I''ll really be scared." An MeiYun started begging pitifully.


    Although going down nearby was not what she wanted either, it seemed to be the only way now.


    As for the person who had insulted her in her previous life, she had already figured out a way to send him for reform early on after her rebirth.


    She believed in herself that she would absolutely not be humiliated by anyone this life. Plus with the memories from her previous life and the An family''s asional help, it was only a matter of time before she came back.

 Chapter 29: Sweet Brother

    <h4>Chapter 29</h4>


    An JingZhi was also very helpless. "MeiYun, going down to the countryside is to support the country''s construction. This is a good thing. Don''t think it''s so terrible!"


    An MeiYun put away her pitiful look, and her eyes gradually became deep.


    It''s easy to say, but the pain she suffered in her previous life made it difficult for her not to think about it.


    An ZhiXia had not expected this oue either.


    No wonder Zhou Nan was so excited just now.


    However, she was even more grateful to the old man and olddy.


    No matter what their purpose was, the result was the best for her anyway.


    An JingZhi was in a hurry to go to work, and did not have too much time to dy.


    Zhou Nan had originally wanted to take An ZhiXia to the hospital for an examination in the afternoon, but now he didn''t have the heart to do it.


    An ZhiXia was also very confused. The things she had let go of in her previous life, when she experienced them again, seemed to trap her again.


    In a daze, she returned to her room, abandoning these troublesome thoughts. She was about to go into her space to take a look, but there was another knock on her door.


    An ZhiAng came in from outside. Seeing An ZhiXia''s silent appearance, he asked her, "Are you unhappy?"


    "Not really." She wasn''t unhappy, she just felt that her thoughts were restricted by these things, which seemed a bit backwards. What was left in her mind was nothing but hatred and longing.


    She should be looking forward in life. The meaning of rebirth was to live her life well and make up for past regrets, not to seek those unattainable things, such as parental love.


    She just wanted to be a little selfish. She would only love those who loved her, and she didn''t want to give too much unnecessary emotion to those who didn''t love her, because that would hurt her.


    Although she hadn''t personally experienced the 100 years, she had seen too much.


    Her feelings had long since faded.


    If they hadn''t shown her care and affection first, she wouldn''t have had more expectations of them either.


    It would actually be best to be like her second and third brother, keeping a distance. As long as they didn''t hurt her, it was already enough.


    "Fourth brother, are you really going to join the army?" Although An ZhiXia was able to let go, it was different for An ZhiAng. Perhaps it was because they were twins, or perhaps it was because of his attitude towards her.


    "I mentioned it twice before, but Mom didn''t agree. She said it would be like Eldest Brother, rarelying home even once a year. But if I could really join the army, I would be very willing."


    The main reason was that it was too dangerous, so Zhou Nan was worried.


    Boys and girls are different after all. To defend the country is his most ambitious dream.


    However, thinking that his sister had juste back, and seeing his parents'' attitude fluctuating between her and MeiYun, while his second and third brothers were clearly neutral, if he left at this time, who would protect his sister?


    An ZhiAng, who had lived freely for 18 years, was troubled for the first time.


    An ZhiXia had heard from An MeiYun that in their previous life without rebirth, An ZhiAng had also joined the army. Later, he was even rmended by the army to go to military school, and his aplishments were not low.


    But in the previous life, after An ZhiXia''s death, An MeiYun often told Zhou Nan about the dangers of being a soldier, who could note home often. This led Zhou Nan to oppose An ZhiAng joining the army.


    Later An ZhiAng went to the countryside as an educated youth, while An MeiYun stayed in the city to work and get married and have children.


    This led to An ZhiAng already being in the countryside when the An family was framed, so he escaped the disaster. By the time he found out about the changes at home and tried toe back, it was toote. At that time, he didn''t know it was An MeiYun who had harmed the family, which gave her the opportunity to frame him and imprison him, and he eventually died at her hands.


    Thinking of those memories that only she knew, An ZhiXia was filled with emotion.


    But in this life, she hoped that An ZhiAng could continue on the path he took in their life without rebirth. That was the purest path without others'' interference.


    As for the rest of the An family, even if they didn''t love her that much, she didn''t want them to die tragically by being framed either.


    "Fourth brother, since you want to, then go. Others'' thoughts are not your opinion. Don''t let other people''s reasons leave you with regrets in life. My handsome fourth brother would definitely look amazing in a military uniform."


    "Really? Little sister, do you also think fourth brother should join the army?" She was the first person in the family to support him, and An ZhiAng felt very happy.


    "A good man should have ideals. Either put on a doctor''s coat to save lives, or put on a military uniform to defend the country. Now is the time to live freely for your dreams while our parents are healthy and we are young. When our parents are old and you have a wife and children to take care of, it would be difficult to leave. By then, others may have seeded while you are still eating dirt. Won''t that be sad to look back on?" An ZhiXia jokingly said, "And if you really have to eat dirt in the future, I can eat with you. Isn''t that loyalty?"


    "Yes, very loyal," An ZhiAng pinched her nose, feeling warm inside.


    His friends used to praise how nice, well-behaved and obedient his sister at home was, and showed off the clothes and shoes she made for him. But he didn''t feel that way.


    It turned out it wasn''t that his sister wasn''t nice, obedient or well-behaved, just not the right person.


    Seeing his own sister, he felt that no matter how she acted up in front of him, it would still be cute.


    An ZhiAng said he wanted to take An ZhiXia out for a walk. He had decided to join the army, regardless of what his parents thought. If it came down to it, he would just run away.


    While he was still at home, he wanted to familiarize her with the surrounding environment first.


    That way, when he was gone, at least she would have someone to talk to and ask for directions when she went out.


    Along the way, when someone asked An ZhiAng who was with him, he told the truth. After all, the family didn''t intend to hide the fact that she had been switched. Otherwise, how could they exin his sudden extra sister?


    Making up another excuse would be very unfair to An ZhiXia!


    He also thoughtfully told An ZhiXia in private which elders were kindhearted and which aunties were gossipy.


    The two walked a long, long way before chatting with a group of elders under a big tree in front of someone else''s house on the way back.


    Normally An ZhiAng would definitely not have so much patience, but now he desperately wanted An ZhiXia to be familiar with this area. When he wasn''t home, she could feel a sense of belonging and at least find someone to talk to and ask for directions when she went out.

 Chapter 30: Always stick to your side first.

    <h4>Chapter 30</h4>


    The daylight was fading, and An Zhiren came back passing this way. Only then did they stand up together and head home.


    Perhaps she was not in the mood. Zhou Nan made this meal quite casually.


    An MeiYun did not evene back for dinner. When An JingZhi asked, Zhou Nan said she was in a bad mood and went out, then never came back.


    An JingZhi also felt that she was probably throwing a little tantrum, after all, she often did this before, so he did not take it too seriously.


    After the meal, An ZhiXia voluntarily went to tidy up the bowls and chopsticks. She did not feel that she should not do this, after all, she also ate the meals at home.


    But doing housework just the second day aftering back, Zhou Nan did not even have a polite remark. An ZhiXia knew she still resented her in her heart.


    Seeing the wrong atmosphere at home, Liu Ling did not dare to speak up either, just when helping to tidy up the bowls and chopsticks into the kitchen, she told An ZhiXia to go out, and she would tidy up the rest.


    But An ZhiXia did not do so, but cleaned the chopping board while she was washing the dishes.


    "ZhiXia, your mother is just in a bad mood these two days. When she gets over it, it will be fine. Don''t take it to heart." Liu Ling thought for a while and still persuaded her.


    "I know. Thank you for your concern, sister-inw." But there were some things she could understand but not ept.


    An ZhiAng gave her the 150 dors and told her to keep it safe, saying he often lost his pocket money when he was a child.


    An ZhiXia knew about this. When An MeiYun was a child, she stole his hard-earned pocket money and bought a lot of candy for the children in the neighborhood, making the others all listen to her.


    When An ZhiAng confronted her, she still denied it. Then the two had a fight.


    The parents were biased, which made An ZhiAng so angry that he lived at his grandfather''s for half a month withouting back. It was An JingZhi who made up his pocket money before coaxing him back.


    But ever since then, he hated his sister An MeiYun, especially the more his parents favored her, the more he hated her.


    Seeing his still resentful expression when telling her to keep the money safe, An ZhiXia felt warm-hearted.


    Her brothers were all very generous to her.


    Although she had a whole space and an Interdimensional Trading Device for shopping, she really did not have a penny to use in the real world.


    An ZhiXia took a shower in the bathroom, changed into the new clothes she bought today, washed her dirty clothes and hung them to dry in the yard before going back to her room.


    After locking the door, she entered the space.


    On the trading device interface, there was actually a message from the post-apocalyptic ne.


    "I''m Not a Zombie": "Thank you, little richdy, for the seafood. But besides seafood, I need more grains and canned meat products. I look forward to trading with you. I''ve also given you a gift to meet you and hope you''ll like it."


    An ZhiXia received the other party''s gift, which turned out to be arge gold bracelet!


    She understood it immediately.


    In her previous life, she had also read many post-apocalyptic novels. From the other party''s name, she could judge that the post-apocalyptic world she was in was probably zombie-themed.


    In the zombie-infested post-apocalyptic world, everyone was in danger, and all kinds of industrial and agricultural production had long ceased. Even the grains they ate could only be produced with superpowers by nt-based superhumans.


    Under these circumstances, food was scarce, while impractical items like this were worthless instead.


    The other party''s avatar lit up, meaning she was online.


    In just a moment, another message came: "Hello, I need a lot of food. Can we trade? I can provide you with gold, silver, machinery, appliances, clothing, fabrics, etc., except for food..."


    "I''m Not a Zombie" said a lot at once and showed her urgent need for food.


    Maybe it was her first time doing business, or maybe she really needed it too badly.


    "Little Rich Lady of the Times": "Hello, I can provide you with a lot of food supplies. I can exchange them for what you mentioned, and if you collect anything you don''t need outside, you can also give it to me."


    An ZhiXia packaged all the food the aquaculture tycoon gave her yesterday and sent it to "I''m Not a Zombie". She also gave her some of the grains harvested yesterday to show her sincerity.


    "Little Rich Lady of the Times": "This is all I have for now. Do you have any requirements for the instant food you want? I need time to purchase it back before I can give it to you."


    At noon in the post-apocalyptic world, the weather was extremely hot.


    After emptying all the edible items behind the shelves of the department store, the girl had not eaten anything for a whole day.


    She got a jade pendant two days ago. After being stained with blood, it activated the Interdimensional Trading Device.


    Maybe because there was a crack in the jade pendant, the trading device was also iplete. Not only did it not have any friends, but adding friends was also impossible.


    Fortunately, the trading device itself came with housing to rest and ten storage slots to store things, which was still very useful.


    Just as she entered the trading device again, she suddenly discovered that she had an additional friend who gave her a lot of seafood.


    Ever since the apocalypse came, some humans turned into zombies while asleep, some awakened superpowers, and all nts and animals mutated too. Some mutated monsters also came ashore from the oceans.


    Humans had to face not only these, but also the extremely adverse weather changes. For example, right now, it was still 30-40 degrees hot enough to kill people, but at night, it would turn into extremely cold air.


    Under such weather changes, ordinary crops simply could not grow. Mutated crops were also toxic. Human survival had be extremely difficult.


    Having just been through fierce battles, she was already starving and almost exhausted. She hurriedly used her fire abilities to roast two big shrimps, which at least relieved her hunger a little.


    After eating, she hurried to reply: "No requirements. Anything edible is fine. The more the better. I hope it can be delivered as soon as possible. Or you can deliver in batches, that works too."


    She had just replied when the other party sent her a lot of food supplies.


    An ZhiXia was also startled here, and then several items were sent in session.


    She epted them all. Many gold and silver jewelry, watches, bags, and even several ss cabs containing gold and silver jewelry were packed and sent over, as well as arge number of clothes, various appliances, and daily necessities...


    An ZhiXia had reason to suspect that the other party was currently conducting a major raid, because she could not store them on her side, so she had moved everything to her side.


    Sure enough, "I''m Not a Zombie" messaged afterwards: "I''m currently in a mall with many of these supplies. I can give you all of them if you need them. The food can be deliveredter. Just let me know the quantity."


    These things werepletely useless to "I''m Not a Zombie". Her space was not big. She just wanted to store some useful items. Now the city center had been upied byrge numbers of zombies and monsters. If she did not take these items, they would be destroyed anyway, so she might as well give them to the other party to gain favor.


    She didn''t believe that with so many supplies sent over, the other party would still be stingy with her.


    An ZhiXia was naturally more than happy to take them. "Of course you can. In the future, anything you don''t need over there, you can collect and give to me. Let''s not talk about how much supplies to exchange. Just tell me how much food you need directly. My food will always be reserved for your side first."


    An ZhiXia had a whole space, and the space was not small at all. Also, the time flow was very fast, equivalent to many days outside.


    She was fully confident that her space''s output could keep up with "I''m Not a Zombie"''s needs. Besides, she still had the aquaculture tycoon as her backup. She was not worried at all.

 Chapter 31: A lot of supplies are useless.

    <h4>Chapter 31</h4>


    Therge amount of supplies was the best glue between the two people. Although they didn''t chat much, they felt even closer than biological sisters.


    An ZhiXia had received so many supplies that her fingers were numb from all the sorting, yet I''m Not a Zombie kept sending more to her side.


    She didn''t have time to organize everything. With only ten storage spaces, there was no way to fit it all. She could only take the items out and pile them onto the emptynd outside.


    Soon the entire area was filled, looking messy and disorganized, before I''m Not a Zombie finally stopped sending things over.


    I''m Not a Zombie said, "This is all I have for now. I''ll get you more stuff from other ces next time."


    From their brief conversation, she had already learned that the rich young miss had a fully functioning interspatial trader, and also had friends other than her.


    So An ZhiXia wanted to get even closer to her. After all, the other party had an endless supply of bargaining chips, while all she had were these useless items to her.


    In a few years, even these things would be less and less as time wore them down and destroyed them.


    She could only take advantage of the goodwill she had now with the rich girl, hoping thatter on, the other party would provide her with a period of food in return for all the items she had given.


    Although psychics could also grow food, it was still limited and took up a lot of psychic power.


    An ZhiXia also sent back a reply, then gave all of her own food to the other party.


    Although she had only harvested once yesterday, therge area meant the yield was plentiful, with many varieties.


    An ZhiXia also picked many fruits, filling up ten whole crates and using up all her paper boxes before stopping.


    Fortunately these things wouldn''t spoil in storage spaces without taking them out, otherwise it would have been difficult to deal with.


    After both sides finished sending items, the two chatted for a while longer.


    Only then did An ZhiXia find out that the other party was actually just a few years older than her, and was the young miss and psychic of a base. She was out on a mission this time and got separated from herpanions, currently trapped in an enclosed shopping mall. The leftover supplies were what others didn''t take.


    Therge farmer also messaged to say he had exchanged all his money for supplies.


    More items were sent over, but therge farmer packed everything neatly intorge crates. Items of the same type in storage spaces could be infinitely stacked, so this way only one space was needed.


    An ZhiXia checked the supplies and found many ovepping with I''m Not a Zombie''s, but she couldn''t me him either. She was the one who told him to buy whatever yesterday.


    Plus at that time when she traded with therge farmer, she didn''t know I''m Not a Zombie yet.


    An ZhiXia then asked if he wanted seafood. She had a whole ocean after all, it would be too wasteful not to use it.


    Therge farmer replied, "If it''s premium seafood like yesterday, then of course I want it."


    An ZhiXia quickly used her mind to haul over a batch of seafood to him. She didn''t bother checking for varieties, randomly scooping up a school of fish. Judging by sight, there were several species.


    It scared therge farmer badly. "Little rich girl, no wonder you''re called little rich girl. Don''t tell me you''re a deep sea mermaid whose family owns an entire ocean?"


    He didn''t recognize most of the fish, but the one on top wasn''t even the biggest. A friend''s gathering he went to recently bought a 100-plus pound fish that was the most expensive he''d eaten in his life, called the Pacific bluefin tuna, costing tens of thousands for just one.


    "You''re mistaken," the rich young miss said. "I didn''t take over an ocean, but a whole. So anything you want to eat from the mountains or seas in the future, you cane to me for it."


    Therge farmerughed. "If you can take over a, then I might as well take over the universe!"


    An ZhiXia: "..."


    No one believed her after all, so she couldn''t me them.


    An ZhiXia hauled over several more boxes of shrimp and crab for him, easily worth tens of thousands, plus those fish, at least hundreds of thousands for starters.


    In the process, she actually discovered oysters that produced pearls.


    An ZhiXia''s eyes lit up.


    Pearls, the holy grail of skin whitening!


    And she obtained them with her own hands, absolutely genuine.


    An ZhiXia quickly ended her chat with therge farmer to focus on hauling up oysters.


    The extracted pearls were categorized as well, with the big round ones put aside for trading or making essories, while ones with defects went into a pile to be ground up into powder for facials once she had enough.


    But for now, she had to organize the huge pile of items first before anything else, rather than leaving them strewn across the opennd.


    Surprisingly, therge farmer had bought her a small electric generator, finally solving the issue of electricity in her space.


    The kitchen wasn''t small, so she started by taking out pots and pans to furnish it, plus arge oven that perfectly suited her.


    After organizing the kitchen, An ZhiXia began sorting the items outside.


    All the gold and silver jewelry went into boxes sorted by type, watches stored away, bags packed into crates.


    Clothes, shoes, hats, appliances, bedding sets, kitchenware, sundries...so many, it made her scalp tingle just looking at them.


    By the end, there was even a crate of mini umbres!!!


    An ZhiXia felt her brain go numb.


    After everything was organized, she didn''t know how much time had passed.


    But her mind remained excited through it all, not feeling tired at all.


    She thought, I''m Not a Zombie''s identity was the young miss of a base, so she must have many people relying on her. The food neededter on wouldn''t be insignificant.


    Although there were many fields in her space, at a nce they were mostly uncultivated grasnds, forests, and mountains and seas.


    She should reim morend to nt food, in case it became insufficientter when needed.


    After all, her space was massive. Even reiming double the current fields wouldn''t impact the overallyout.


    When choosing suitablend to reim, An ZhiXia also nced at the animals she put in yesterday.


    One pregnant sow had actually given birth to 10 piglets.


    The chickens and ducks hadid 6-7 eggs each, which would surely hatch into flocks of chicks and ducklings soon.


    Everything was moving in a good direction.


    The newly reimed fields were all nted with wheat, while the rice paddies fully nted with rice. Only then did An ZhiXia feel her eyes grow sore and mind dizzy.

 Chapter 32: What do you think of the little sister who just got back

    <h4>Chapter 32</h4>


    An ZhiXia came out of her space, ready to rest, but found that it was already bright outside.


    Sunshine streamed in through the window and warmly illuminated her.


    "ZhiXia, are you up? Have you had breakfast?" Zhou Nan''s voice came from outside. She had left food for her yesterday morning, but that couldn''t go on every day sote.


    An ZhiXia, who had just wanted to go to sleep, had to force herself to open the door alertly, "I''m up now."


    "Hurry up and wash up to eat breakfast," Zhou Nan urged her, "Just right, your third brother is working at the hospital today,ter we''ll have him take us to the hospital and get you checked out."


    An ZhiXia was stunned for a moment, "I''m fine, I don''t need to get checked." If she could, she didn''t even want to eat now, she just wanted to hurry up and sleep.


    Zhou Nan also didn''t expect her to say this, because they had already talked about going to the hospital yesterday, and at that time she didn''t object.


    While hurriedly eating breakfast, An JingZhi said, "If she doesn''t want to go, then don''t force her. It just means her body doesn''t have any difort, that''s good."


    An ZhiXian also chimed in, "If you are really uneasy about little sister''s health, wait until I get back tonight and I''ll check her pulse. Although I''m still just an intern doctor, I''ve started seeing patients at the hospital."


    "That works too, do as you like," Zhou Nan also felt uneasy in her heart, she really didn''t have the extra heart to deal with anything else.


    After An ZhiXia washed her face and came back, she couldn''t help but yawn.


    An ZhiXian was the first to notice, "Little sister, did you not sleep wellst night? Your eyes are so dark!"


    An ZhiAng hurriedly looked up, "Yes, was it too hot in the room?"


    He was also unbearably hotst night and hadn''t fallen asleep untilte at night. His third brother who he shared the bed with was extremely annoyed with him. In the end, he simply took a mat and went to sleep in the yard.


    Whether it was hot or not, An ZhiXia hadn''t noticed at all. As soon as she returned to the room, she went into her space. The temperature in her space was just right, not hot or cold. By the time she came back out, it was already bright outside.


    But she really was tired.


    "It was a little hot, but it was okay. It''s just that fourth brother''s bed is too soft. I''ve never slept on such a soft bed before. Lying on it was like a dream, I was afraid that if I fell asleep, I would really be dreaming." She knew how to act pitiful. She was capable of it just like An MeiYun.


    Sure enough, as soon as she said this, the look in Zhou Nan''s eyes instantly became guilty again.


    "We were negligent before, letting you suffer so much alone, but not anymore. Your brothers will cherish you from now on," An ZhiAngfortingly patted her on the shoulder, not hiding the distress in his eyes at all.


    Then he turned to ask An Zhiren and An ZhiXian, "Right, second and third brothers?"


    As An ZhiAng spoke, he signaled them with his eyes to hurry up and agree.


    An ZhiXian red at him, simply murmuring in agreement, "Yes."


    An Zhiren also smiled and nodded.


    Among the four sons of the An family, only the fourth was the most short-sighted, wearing all of his likes and dislikes on his face. He was also often taken advantage of because of this, but it was a pity he just couldn''t change this bad habit.


    Fortunately, his older brothers who doted on their younger brother always protected him. Who could let the silly little brother be the most lovablepared to the rest of the crafty brothers?


    Therefore, regarding the sister he wholeheartedly wanted to protect, An Zhiren and An ZhiXian also held an attitude of cherishing and yielding to her.


    Of course, for now it was just that.


    To say that as soon as she returned they had deep feelings for her, although they were of the same mother, they weren''t twins. They truly couldn''t understand An ZhiAng''s unconditional bias.


    After eating breakfast, An ZhiXia went back to sleep until noon.


    In the afternoon, Zhou Nan went out and An MeiYun still hadn''t returned. An WenQing went next door to the neighbor''s house to y with the kids. An ZhiXia then returned to her room again.


    The wheat she had nted in her space yesterday had sprouted, and the rice seedlings had also emerged.


    As for the field she had previously harvested, there was no need for renting at all. The seeds that had identally fallen in the field had already sprouted and were growing quickly.


    Even the grains she had scattered on the grass to feed the chickens and ducks that they didn''t finish eating had sprouted.


    She didn''t deal with them, just leaving them on the grass as feed.


    The kitchen she had just tidied up still hadn''t been used yet, so she had to try it out first.


    Especially thatrge oven, these were all her family''s property after all, just looking at it made her happy.


    You never know until you see. What a shock!


    The post-apocalyptic ne seemed to be even more advanced than the modern ne, because the items were clearly more user-friendly.


    A seemingly simple oven had automatic power storage functions listed in the user manual.


    The oven didn''t even have an electrical plug to plug in, because when not in use, it could automatically absorb ambient heat and store it in an internal battery. The battery capacity was also very powerful. It only needed one night to fully charge, but could be used continuously for several days.


    Other kitchen appliances like the rice cooker and blender also had this feature. Only the frying pan still required fire, but there was also an electromaic stove with the same functionality.


    Using them was so convenient. Even the generator the animal husbandry tycoon had gotten for her was temporarily useless.


    An ZhiXia used the flour and eggs given to her by the animal husbandry tycoon. The chickens she raised were collecting eggs to incubate chicks, so she didn''t dare eat the eggs gathered by the mother hens now in order to quickly expand her animal husbandry business.


    The oven was veryrge. She baked several loaves of bread at once, but there was still a lot of empty space at the bottom.


    She also caught arge shrimp as long as half her arm from the sea, processed it, and ced it at the very bottom of the oven before starting the preheat timer.


    While she had time, she took the low-grade pearls she had made yesterday and crushed them in a grinder.


    She also picked a lot of herbs that could whiten skin, along with rose petals, and dried everything in the food dehydrator. Then she ground them into powder together.


    By the time she finished this, the bread was baked.


    As soon as she opened the oven, a sweet fragrant scent wafted out, making her empty stomach that hadn''t eaten much growl hungrily.


    An ZhiXia didn''t dare eat too much, only eating half of a small loaf. Then she put the rest in a box and into her storage space. That way, the next time she took it out it would still be freshly baked and piping hot.


    As for the shrimp as long as her arm, she didn''t hold back at all, eating most of it. Her stomach was so full she couldn''t eat any more, so she threw the rest on the grass to feed the geese.

 Chapter 33: She Chose to get Married.

    <h4>Chapter 33</h4>


    After changing into pajamas and lying on the big bed in the bedroom, her face was covered with a face mask that she had just made. The memory foam mattress here was much morefortable than the one outside, and the temperature was just right without mosquitoes.


    She didn''t take off the solidified face mask until the time was up, and then she selected a set of skin care products for skin care. The skin that had just been masked didn''t show much effect yet, but it felt obviously smoother than before when touched by hand.


    Mei Mei took another nap, and when she woke up, she heard the sound of someone knocking on the door.


    The sounds she made in the space could not be heard outside, but as long as the distance was not too far, she could still perceive the sounds made outside.


    Opening the door, it was time to eat dinner again, and this day went by so fast.


    "Why did you lock the door as soon as you entered the room when there are no outsiders at home?" Zhou Nan muttered.


    An ZhiXia certainly could not tell the truth, she could only say, "I was born with ack of security, I always feel uneasy without locking the door."


    Zhou Nan only thought it was the aftereffect left in her when she was in the Gao family before, so she didn''t say anything more, she just felt upset in her heart.


    She didn''t know what kind of karma she had created that she came across such things.


    The daughter she had raised for so many years was not her own, and when her own daughter was found, she also made the family discordant.


    It wasn''t that she didn''t understand that it wasn''t ZhiXia''s fault, but the adopted daughter had also been raised as her own for so many years. To say that there was no feeling at all and to sever ties just like that, how could that be possible?


    As time went by little by little, in the blink of an eye, more than half a month had passed.


    At breakfast, Liu Ling looked at An ZhiXia''s face that was clearly a little fatter, and asked, "ZhiXia, have you be fairer? And you look much prettier than when you first came back now."


    An ZhiXia: "Maybe because I didn''t go out much at home during this time and was kept warm, I also feel that I am fairer than before, and my skin is more delicate too."


    She put on a face mask every day. If she didn''t be fairer, she would really fail to live up to those pearls she had wasted, as well as the Chinese herbal medicines that had a whitening effect.


    It was only then that Zhou Nan suddenly realized that the changes in this daughter were quite big recently. She had gained some weight, herplexion had be whiter, and she looked more like her.


    The soft spot in her heart was inadvertently touched.


    "Make two more warm clothes for you when I have time in a few days. Girls should dress better to look good." The fabric she boughtst time was used to make two pants for her. It was almost September, and the weather would turn cold soon. It would be toote to make thick clothes after it got cold.


    An ZhiXia expressed her gratitude.


    After finishing his meal, An JingZhi put down his bowl and saw that there was still some time before going to work. He said, "The literacy ss has beenunched in our neighborhood. You can also go to ss when you have nothing to do at home. If you don''t understand, you can ask me or your brothers when youe back."


    Although she was past the school age, learning more words was always good.


    An MeiYun''s work did not need to be arranged, but recently An JingZhi was also worried about letting An ZhiXia do something.


    She was eighteen and not that young anymore. She had to attend a ss anyway, he didn''t expect her to earn much, at least she had something to do.


    "My fourth brother has already told me about this. I have been going to ss every day these days." Her own knowledge was no worse than anyone else''s, but of course she couldn''t tell them that she had attended school when she was a ghost, so she had to find a suitable reason to learn words.


    An JingZhi didn''t expect her to be so enlightened either, he was clearly very gratified, and urged her to study hard.


    The registration for educated youth was before enlisting in the army. No matter how An MeiYun made trouble these days, or came home early andte to confront the family, Old Master An''s decision was not something An JingZhi dared to go against.


    On that day, An JingZhi specifically took a day off to take An MeiYun to the neighborhoodmittee to voluntarily register as a sent-down youth.


    However, he was stunned by a sentence from An MeiYun, "I can''t go to the countryside anymore, I''m already married."


    In order to get married, An MeiYun had also shamelessly gone all out.


    But she didn''t care about so much anymore. In 1977, the college entrance examination was restored, and educated youth began to return to the city gradually. Some people did not return until the 1980s.


    An MeiYun''s studies had always been poor since childhood, and she was the only one of the An family''s children who had not even attended high school. Even if she took the college entrance exam, she certainly wouldn''t pass.


    It could be said that she knew her own limits. Some things simply could not be changed even if she was reborn, such as going to school.


    But this sentence stunned both An JingZhi and Zhou Nan.


    "Married? MeiYun, what are you talking about?" Zhou Nan stared in disbelief.


    "I''m not kidding, I got married. I got a marriage certificate with Lin Hao the day before yesterday." On the contrary, An MeiYun was very calm, looking at An JingZhi sarcastically, "Dad must feel very distressed now, right? You said the An family needed someone to go to the countryside, but now there is only your biological daughter left. I don''t know if you can bear to let her go or not?"


    An JingZhi didn''t speak, but the way he looked at An MeiYun was very disappointed.


    This was the daughter he had raised for eighteen years!


    Old Master was right, he was really blinded by affection, so he couldn''t see clearly and almost harmed the family.


    The unwillingness and resentment in MeiYun''s eyes, even if it only appeared asionally, was too obvious.


    Keeping her at home would likely cause chaos.


    An JingZhi tried to stay calm, to make himself look less concerned. "Whether to get married or not is your own choice. Your mother and I have done our best for you. Since you''d rather marry casually than go to the countryside, move out and live by yourself as soon as possible."


    "Old An, what are you talking about? The child got married so casually without us even knowing who the other person is, and you didn''t even ask before..."


    "No matter if it''s good or bad, it was her own choice!"


    An JingZhi shouted angrily, which even scared Zhou Nan who rarely lost his temper.


    After An JingZhi left, Zhou Nan was still stunned for a long time, but An MeiYun slumped dejectedly in the chair with a look of sarcasm in her eyes.


    Zhou Nan came over to pull her. "MeiYun, tell mom quickly, what exactly is going on?"


    An MeiYun dodged expressionlessly, "Anyway, now that your biological daughter is back, I, the adopted daughter, am no longer important. Does anyone care what the situation is?"


    Zhou Nan wanted to say something more, but An MeiYun didn''t give her a chance. She got up and left, mming the door and isting Zhou Nan outside.


    An ZhiAngforted Zhou Nan, "Mom, don''t cry. It''s not worth it for An MeiYun. Can''t you see what kind of choice she has made? She is a selfish person who does everything for herself, when has she ever thought about others?"


    If the family really needed someone to be sent down, her messing things up like this would disrupt all ns.


    In the crucial juncture between life and death, her reckless behavior could kill the whole family.


    Unfortunately, Zhou Nan was in no mood to listen to such words at all. "Shut up! It''s all because you all side with ZhiXia! If you had paid a little more attention to MeiYun, she wouldn''t have been forced to this point!"

 Chapter 34: Inquiring in Disguise

    <h4>Chapter 34</h4>


    In Zhou Nan''s heart, since An MeiYun was desperate enough to get married, how much more desperate must she feel now? Yet An ZhiXia, who had not uttered a word from beginning to end, was wrongly med for An MeiYun''s decision.


    Disappointment welled up in her heart again.


    An ZhiXia returned to her room and packed a small bundle, preparing to leave.


    Zhou Nan said anxiously, "An ZhiXia, I''m your mother. I didn''t say anything, did I? And you''re leaving home just like that? Isn''t that going overboard?"


    "Mom misunderstood. Didn''t Grandma sayst time that she wanted me to stay with her for a few days? It''s been a long time since then and I should keep my promise."


    She knew they med her existence for hurting An MeiYun. If she couldn''t handle them, shouldn''t she avoid them?


    Without waiting for Zhou Nan''s consent, An ZhiXia left. She still remembered where Grandma lived, because An ZhiAng had taken her there before.


    Besides, when Grandma asked her to stay, it wasn''t just a casual remark. She had prepared a room for her. Except for the main bedroom, which was the brightest, the room was no worse than the one here.


    An ZhiAng hurried to catch up. "Little sister, wait for me. I''ll go with you."


    Zhou Nan felt exhausted standing there. If not for An WenQing still being there, she would have cried loudly in anger.


    What was happening? All kinds of troublesome things kept happening to her.


    Just outside the door, after greeting a grandma neighbor, An ZhiXia walked past a tall, handsome man.


    Following closely behind was An ZhiAng, who was grabbed by the man. "Little Four, where are you going?"


    The person who stopped An ZhiAng was none other than Pei Jing, the third son of the Pei family.


    "Little Uncle, I heard you were injured. Are you better now?" An ZhiAng was quite happy to see someone he was familiar with and admired. "My little sister is going to stay with Grandpa and Grandma for a few days. I''m going after her to see her off."


    The Pei and An families had some connections. Although the older generation were not blood brothers, they were as close as brothers. Although Pei Jing was not his little uncle by blood, he still had quite some prestige among their generation.


    He was a little older and often yed with his big brother when they were young. An ZhiAng also followed behind them.


    "Your little sister...is the one who just came back?" The matter of the An family''s little daughter being swapped was already well known outside, especially to the close Pei family. Naturally it was no secret.


    Old Master An had alreadyined about it to Old Pei when he first got the news.


    "Yes." An ZhiXia was no longer visible up ahead, so An ZhiAng replied somewhat absentmindedly, "Little Uncle, I won''t chat anymore. I''m going after my little sister. She just arrived so she''s not familiar here. I''m afraid she won''t be able to find the way herself."


    An ZhiAng walked briskly, unaware that after he answered, Pei Jing''s eyes darkened.


    "Little Four, don''t hurry. I''ll go with you." His objective ining here had already left, so he naturally had no need to make another trip to the An house.


    Carrying a small bundle, An ZhiXia walked not too quickly.


    She knew that Fourth Brother would definitely catch up.


    But after turning the corner, still not seeing anyone behind, she couldn''t help feeling she had overestimated her status.


    Of course she wasn''t really leaving the An family. With An MeiYun still here, if she left now, wouldn''t the An family still follow the same old path as the previous life?


    She just wanted to take this chance to let them know her attitude. She and An MeiYun could not live together. It wasn''t only An MeiYun who would throw tantrums.


    Just aftering back those first two days, relying on An JingZhi and Zhou Nan''s guilt, she clearly had the upper hand.


    But in the time since, just because An MeiYun knew how to act out, Zhou Nan''s attitude had gradually started to change.


    Typical case of the crying child getting the candy. She understood.


    She no longer had high hopes for maternal love, but she couldn''t let An MeiYun take advantage either.


    The two elders truly cared for her. Last time at Grandma''s, Grandma even gave her some pocket money and bought two dresses for her, with matching shoes.


    Branige dresses were not cheap in this era. One dress was nearly half a month''s wages for an average person, yet the olddy bought two sets in one go. This showed her generosity.


    Even Zhou Nan said An MeiYun had only gotten two Branige dresses in the past two years since she grew up.


    At that time An ZhiXia didn''t respond. No matter how one''s own flesh and blood, feelings that had been absent for 18 years could not be made up for in an instant. What could she say?


    Just then, An ZhiAng''s voice came from behind. "Little sister, don''t walk so fast. Wait for us."


    The word "us" attracted An ZhiXia''s attention. She stopped and looked back to see An ZhiAnging with Pei Jing.


    She had noticed the man in passing just now. After all, someone so tall and rather good looking would catch anyone''s eye at a nce.


    But they passed so closely and quickly before that she hadn''t realized anything.


    Now as they walked towards her from afar, Pei Jing''s features became clearer in her vision, and An ZhiXia could see his face more clearly.


    From initial puzzlement toter unease, she felt an urge to hide herself immediately.


    And that was exactly what she did.


    Head lowered, she began to move, slowly turning her back, and suddenly broke into a dash.


    "Little sister..."


    An ZhiAng''s delighted expression as An ZhiXia stopped to wait for him gradually turned to shock and disbelief as he watched her sprinting away up ahead.


    Didn''t little sister stop to wait for him?


    Why did she suddenly...run so fast?


    "L-little...little uncle, my sister probably doesn''t recognize you, so she''s a little scared and running so fast...hehe..." Faced with Pei Jing, An ZhiAng gave an helpless, awkward exnation for An ZhiXia.


    Pei Jing also watched the figure up ahead running swiftly, feeling somewhatplicated for a moment.


    "Little Four, I''m going to ask you a question. Answer me properly." Pei Jing looked seriously at An ZhiAng, making his heart thump rapidly, wondering if he had gotten into some kind of trouble recently?


    Ever since little sister came back, he had obediently stayed home to apany her. He had even gone out less these days, let alone caused any trouble.


    "Go ahead and ask." Pei Jing''s solemnness also made An ZhiAng rein in his expression.


    "I heard your little sister was first found at your grandma''s ce before your dad went to get her, right?"


    "Oh, so you wanted to ask about that!" An ZhiAng heaved a big sigh of relief. "Of course! Speaking of which, An ZhiXia has really terrible luck. That Gao couple are really despicable people..."


    An ZhiAng was naturally talkative. With someone taking the initiative to ask, he chattered away without Pei Jing needing to say anything more, telling the whole story.


    But when speaking of An ZhiXia being sold off, he suddenly stopped.


    Dad had specifically instructed them not to mention An ZhiXia being sold before, otherwise it would affect her reputation.


    That was how this world worked. Even if An ZhiXia had already escaped and nothing had actually happened, if outsiders knew she had such an experience, she would definitely still be gossiped about and spoken ill of.

 Chapter 35: Meet Pei Lao

    <h4>Chapter 35</h4>


    An ZhiAng was just about to hear what Pei Jing had to say when he suddenly stopped mid-sentence. Considering his mention of An ZhiXia growing up, Pei Jing could guess a little of what had happened.


    "You and your dad went to pick up your little sister 22 days ago on August 19th, right?" Pei Jing asked again.


    "Yes, that''s right, it was that day. My dad said we had to thoroughly investigate before going to get her, and as a result foolishly dyed for several days. If we had just gone to pick her up as soon as we got the notice from my uncle, we could have brought my little sister back 3 days sooner," An ZhiAng started chattering again.


    But Pei Jing didn''t say anything.


    It matched up, matching his own investigationpletely.


    On August 15th, Mid-Autumn Festival day, Mr. and Mrs. Gao, An ZhiXia''s birth parents at the time, had drugged the young An ZhiXia and sold her into the mountains.


    He had just returned from the army that day, originally wanting to hurry home to spend Mid-Autumn festival with his family. But as soon as he got off the train he encountered human traffickers working together as a gang.


    He followed them all the way back to theirir, but on his way back to report he encountered a wolf pack in the mountains. After a fierce battle he was victorious but severely injured, and eventually passed out on the mountain from exhaustion.


    An ZhiXia had found the Zhou family to stay with on the evening of August 16th. On August 15th when she was sold, she had woken up in the night and escaped into the mountains, just happening toe across him while he was critically injured.


    In addition, her condition at that time was clearly very abnormal, so...


    What confused Pei Jing was that when hisrades found him, they said there was no one else there.


    Also, although his clothes were disheveled, his pants were still on him.


    That meant that after sleeping with him, An ZhiXia had woken up and helped him put his pants back on before running off,pletely disregarding that he was still unconscious at the time.


    Tsk tsk, what a heartless woman!


    He had never doubted that it was a dream, because when he woke up the stickiness down there, and the lingering pain of being injured, felt distinctly different.


    His first time in life was not beautiful at all.


    He was severely injured and unable to move, while she had no experience at all but still forcibly prated him. He didn''t know how she felt, but for him it was truly agonizing, yet also faintly stimted in a different way.


    That face covered in blood also gave him recurring nightmares for several days after he woke up, even leaving him with some trauma.


    That feeling of psychological rejection yet physical stimtion made him feel for a time like something was wrong with him.


    So after he recovered a little, he started investigating what had happened that day.


    Even more unexpectedly, this investigation led back to An ZhiXia, the little daughter the An family had just gotten back.


    The time, ce, and people all matched up perfectly, it was undoubtedly her.


    Fortunately at first nce she didn''t look too ugly, which gave him somefort at least.


    It was just that their difference in seniority...really gave him a headache.


    He didn''t know if the old man would find out about this and be so angry he''d directly break Pei Jing''s legs.


    After An ZhiAng talked for a long time, he saw Pei Jing wasn''t responding anymore. "Little uncle, I''m going to find my sister, feel free to make yourself at home."


    "Then I''ll go with you," Pei Jing said.


    An ZhiAng hesitated before replying, "But I think my sister is scared of you."


    "What, am I going to eat her? Or are our two families'' rtionships so bad now we can''t even see each other?" Pei Jing raised his eyebrows and said, it was normal for her to be scared, it would be strange if she wasn''t scared.


    This showed that the girl also recognized him.


    Pei Jing gritted his teeth, "Let''s go, don''t forget, my family is not far from your grandfather''s, just a few houses away."


    There were only a few households between the two families, and the house Pei Jing lived in was even given by Old Master An in the first ce.


    Old Man Pei had originally refused to ept it, but Old Master An said he was giving him the house because he regarded Pei Jing as a son.


    And it was true, when Old Man Pei was fighting in wars back then, he had gotten no small amount of money from Old Master An, except he used it all on the battlefield rather than enjoying it himself.


    This house was different. Over these years of interaction, their rtionship had gone from Old Master An getting a headache just seeing Pei Jing, to regarding him almost like a son.


    Old Man Pei''s parents had died early, and he hade out to make a living on his own at a young age. When Old Master An said this, he also truly regarded Old Master An as his elder.


    Although they were not allowed to worship gods and burn incense on festivals, ancestral worship was a custom that everyone still upheld. If they couldn''t do it openly, they would do it secretly.


    Even now, every year Old Man Pei would still burn spirit money for Old Master An.


    In fact, even if he didn''t want the house, he wouldn''t have been able to keep it. ording to the country''s policies, it would have been taken back and given to someone else. It was better for it to be given to the Pei family - at least they took good care of it, so Old Master An''s intentions were not wasted.


    Later on, Old Master An''s predictions did indeede true.


    Although the An family had already dealt with the old estate, they still had several smaller courtyards and shops left. Other than where they lived now, those had all been handed over too.


    Old Master An was also an old revolutionary who had made contributions to the country, and was now over 70 years old and retired at home. He and Old Madam had caregivers to look after them daily, so their lives were quitefortable.


    When An ZhiXia came over, Old Master An was ying chess in the yard with Old Man Pei. The two old men were chattering away like children, not as dignified as when they were in front of An JingZhi.


    Seeing An ZhiXiae over, Old Master An didn''t even lift his head to greet her and told her toe stand next to him to meet the guest.


    Old Man Pei was a few years older than Old Master An, his hair was all white, and after making a move on the chessboard he nced up at An ZhiXia. "This is An ZhiXia right? What a clever looking little girl, very much like her mother."


    "That''s right, but her eyes are like her grandmother''s. This girl got the best traits from both of them." Old Master An then said to An ZhiXia, "An ZhiXia, this is your Pei Grandpa. Our two families have a deep rtionship - when your grandfather was still alive he treated your Pei Grandpa better than he treated me, his own son!"


    Mentioning Old Master made Old Master An feelplicated emotions.


    Ever since Old Master passed away, he had be the oldest in the family, and no one managed him anymore.


    The independence he had longed for most now instead seemed somewhat bleak.


    "Hello Grandpa Pei," An ZhiXia sweetly called out, "In this time I''ve already heard my fourth brother mention you countless times. Although this is the first time meeting you in person, I feel like I know you well from all I''ve heard!"


    "Oh? What bad things does that brat say about me?" An ZhiAng was the most mischievous of the young generation in the family. Over the years he had not only been disciplined by Old Master An and An JingZhi, but also gotten no small amount of instruction from Old Man Pei.


    "Fourth brother would never dare say bad things about you. He only talked about the glorious deeds of you and Grandpa in your youth." An ZhiAng had said a lot, but An ZhiXia had guided much of what he talked about.


    Given the rtionship between the An and Pei families, they would definitely have a lot of contact in the future. It was better for her to hear more from An ZhiAng''s mouth ahead of time, to avoid exposing gaps in her knowledge elsewhere.


    Speaking of the decline of the An family in her previous life, it was such an urgent and thoughtless matter. At that time Old Man Pei had done a lot of mediation, even almost losing himself in the process. He had given his all in good faith.

 Chapter 36: Who Is That Man

    <h4>Chapter 36</h4>


    An MeiYun was too decisive in her actions. Since it involved secret agents, the policy at that time was better to wrongly kill than to let go.


    The evidence was immediately found when An Family''s home was searched on the scene, and there was simply no room for maneuver.


    Old Pei was also depressed for not being much helpful, and he passed away not long after.


    As the older generation passed away, the rtionship of the younger generation was also precarious, and it was difficult for An Family to survive in such stormy times as they moved step by step towards destruction.


    At that time, Pei''s young son Pei Jing had actually done a lot, but he was in the army when An Family got into trouble. By the time he came back, things had be fait apli.


    Although An Family''s case waster redressed, with some family members dead and some fled, the only one alive, An Zhiang, was also imprisoned for hooliganism.


    Thepensation after An Family''s redress, however, all fell into An MeiYun''s hands, adding bricks and tiles to the splendor of her life journey.


    "This kid is really sensible, he actually bears no grudge against me for beating him in the past." Old Pei praised An Zhiang with a smile, and then chatted with the old master about An Zhiang''s childhood anecdotes.


    "Grandpa, where is my grandma? Didn''t you two always look forward to meing to live here? I specially brought clothes, nning to stay with you for a few days. Don''t dislike me, okay?" ZhiXia raised the package in her hand, and said some coy words.


    Of course the old master would not dislike her. "You are always wee here. The room has been tidied up for you, just waiting for you toe and live. She must be busy making clothes for you in the room now. Go find her inside."


    Then the old master called Mrs. Zhou, "Mrs. Zhou, do we have meat at home? Let''s make dumplings for lunch, with pork and spring onion stuffing, and prepare two side dishes to go with the wine. Ask Old Pei to stay and have a few drinks with me."


    "Yes, yes, we do have meat. You asked me to line up early in the morning to buy it." Mrs. Zhou was in her 30s and had been taking care of the old master for over 10 years. Even the man she married was introduced by the old master.


    ZhiAng had just arrived with Pei Jing shortly after ZhiXia went inside.


    When entering the door, ZhiAng was still asking him, "Young uncle, aren''t you going home?"


    He was about to answer that he just dropped by to see the old master when he saw his own father apanying Old An to y chess in the yard. So he changed his words, "My dad is here, so I''m here to see him too."


    ZhiAng happened to see Old Pei and his grandfather ying chess, thinking Pei Jing already knew about it.


    Hearing the old master asking Mrs. Zhou to make dumplings, he hurried to add, "Mrs. Zhou, make more dumplings. I''m here to freeload a meal too."


    "This kid is so greedy, like a little mouse, can''t resist anything delicious." Hearing his voice, the old master looked up andined to Old Pei on purpose. But seeing Pei Jing was also there, he asked "Little Jing is here too. How is your health recovering? Much better?"


    "It''s much better now. Just some internal injuries left. After recuperating for a while longer I can return to the army." Pei Jing replied while secretly looking around, not seeing the person he was looking for.


    "Grandpa is so biased. As soon as he saw young uncle he forgot I exist, right?" ZhiAng deliberately acted like a spoiled child. "By the way grandpa, did ZhiXiae?"


    "She did, went inside to find your grandma." The old master looked at him with disdain. "If you want grandpa to not be biased, in the future you should be at least half as decent as your big brother and Pei young uncle. At least don''t get into trouble all the time."


    ZhiAng dissatisfiedly snorted, "Just you wait and see. Sooner orter I will make you look at me with new eyes, so you won''t always think I just fool around."


    "This old man looks forward to that..." The old masterughed.


    ZhiAng immediately ran into the house, just in time to see the old madam sewing clothes for ZhiXia.


    The old madam''s sewing skills were quite good in her youth. But now that she was older, she hadn''t sewn for many years and was a bit rusty.


    Mrs. Zhou was supposed to do the sewing. There was a sewing machine at home and Mrs. Zhou knew how to use it. With the fabrics cut and prepared, two pieces of clothing could be finished in less than an hour.


    But the old madam insisted on doing it herself. On top of her poor eyesight, her hands were also not as agile. Mrs. Zhou let her sew one piece herself, and used the sewing machine for the other.


    ZhiXia believed what Zhou Nan said, that the old madam wanted to make up for her regrets towards her young aunt through her.


    But she didn''t mind. The old madam treating her well sincerely was already enough.


    Zhou Nan had just thought of making two thick clothes for her, yet the old madam was already one step ahead, having started working on them.


    Feeling someone caring about her so much warmed ZhiXia''s heart, but also made her somewhat sour.


    ZhiAng shouted ZhiXia''s name before even entering the room, earning disdain from the old madam for his rashness.


    ZhiAng was unhappy, saying he was disliked wherever he went, making the old madamugh.


    In fact, seeing ZhiXia''s calm expression, showing no sign of anger, ZhiAng finally felt relieved.


    He had chased here all the way from home. On the surface he looked carefree and artless, but was actually quite worried.


    As long as little sister is not angry, everything will be fine.


    Knowing they were having dumplings for lunch, ZhiXia took the initiative to offer help with the wrapping.


    Otherwise Mrs. Zhou would be busy until who knows when by herself?


    She didn''t expect Pei Jing toe along as well, so was startled when she went out to the yard. She quickly hid in the kitchen, hoping the people outside would leave soon.


    She didn''t know who he was or his rtion with the family. But since he was here, it meant he was an acquaintance.


    But it was almost meal time, surely he wouldn''t stay for lunch?


    Unfortunately, ZhiXia guessed right again. Pei Jing did intend to stay.


    ZhiAng also followed her into the kitchen, anxiously asking "Little sister, mom was indiscreet today. Don''t be mad at her, okay? Don''t get so angry that it hurts yourself."


    "I''m not angry." At the moment, ZhiXia''s mind was preupied with Pei Jing outside. She basically ignored what ZhiAng was saying, simply agreeing "By the way, fourth brother, who is that person who came with you? He looks rather fierce. Is he staying for lunch too?"


    She had seen him sitting on a stool next to the old master, watching their game of chess. It looked like he had no intention of leaving anytime soon.


    "You mean him? That''s Pei Jing, Old Pei''s youngest son. We have to call him young uncle." ZhiAng was quite happy to hear her say Pei Jing looked fierce.


    Since young, Pei Jing had been the leader of their neighborhood kids, and the model child praised by the parents, good-looking, good at studying, and exceptionally capable at fighting.


    Inparison, ZhiAng was the counter-example.


    What he heard most often growing up was An JingZhi saying, "Can you make something of yourself? You don''t have to be as outstanding as your big brother and Pei young uncle, at least don''t get into trouble all the time."


    ZhiAng''s feelings towards Pei Jing were admiration mixed with some resentment. But due to Pei Jing''s seniority, whenever they met he still had to greet him cheerfully, or else he would be lectured by both families'' parents.

 Chapter 37: Can be Responsible

    <h4>Chapter 37</h4>


    "Who is he?" Zhi Xia asked in surprise, unconsciously raising her voice to ask again.


    "Pei Jing. Why are you reacting so strongly? Don''t tell me you knew him before?" An Zhiang was startled by Zhi Xia''s reaction.


    But he figured they shouldn''t know each other. His little sister had been confined at home by the Gao family before, and the Pei family was in Anle vige, so they didn''t have any rtives inmon and shouldn''t have had a chance to meet.


    Zhi Xia said, "I don''t know him, I don''t know him. I''m just surprised to hear he''s your little uncle when he''s so young."


    The Pei Jing that Auntie An MeiYun said became a business legend after leaving the military and left a billion-dor inheritance for Pei Jianguo - that''s the Pei Jing she was talking about.


    How could she not know him!


    She had also seen Pei Jing in her previous life, when he came back once after the An family incident.


    But it had been too long ago, she didn''t remember what he looked like at all.


    Plus she had only seen him once. The Pei Jing of her previous life didn''t survive, but was betrayed by his teammates on a mission and sacrificed. An MeiYun had a hand in that too.


    To be precise, it was An MeiYun''s husband''s doing.


    After marrying, An MeiYun had always harbored feelings for her unrequited love Pei Jing, and her husband was jealous.


    Or perhaps that was just an excuse. They simply wanted Pei Jing dead.


    Because in the world An MeiYun said they hadn''t been reborn in, Zhi Xia and Pei Jianguo stood at the pinnacle relying on Pei Jing''s assets.


    Mrs. Zhou came in with the washed meat and saw them. "What are you two doing in here? Go out and y for now. I''ll call you when it''s time to wrap dumplings."


    Zhi Xia took the meat from Mrs. Zhou and said, "I''d just be bored outside, so why don''t I help chop the meat and Mrs. Zhou can make the dough. We can divide up the work and get it done faster together."


    "No need, no need. I can handle it myself. If you''re really bored, go with Zhiang to the supply and marketing co-op and get some more wine. We''re running low, and Old Pei is here today too. Those two old men will probably drink a lot, and I''m worried we won''t have enough for them."


    Mrs. Zhou was used to doing everything herself.


    Plus the people she served were retirees, not rushed to get to work. Whether meals were early orte didn''t matter much, and the old master wasn''t very demanding.


    "Then Zhiang can go buy wine. It''s too hot outside. I just got a bit pale and don''t want to get sunburned dark again." Zhi Xia said, already picking up a knife to start chopping meat.


    Pei Jing didn''t leave. She was determined not to go out, so avoiding him a while longer suited her.


    Even if she was staying for the meal, she wanted to minimize being alone with him. She didn''t believe that with so many people around, he could bring up what happened that night.


    Of course, Zhi Xia hoped even more that he didn''t recognize her at all. Then she wouldn''t have to worry about him making trouble.


    Old Pei nced disapprovingly at his idle son. "Zhiang''s gone to buy wine. If you''ve got nothing to do, go to the kitchen and help chop meat. Don''t let the little girl wear herself out with those tiny arms and legs."


    "Alright, I''ll go help." Pei Jing had just been thinking of an excuse to go over.


    Old Pei was taken aback by his prompt agreement. "This boy is still so mature. Not a hint of a lively youngster. I''m worried he won''t be able to find a wife in the future."


    His son hadn''t been around when he was born, leaving just him and his mother alone. Plus he was the oldest grandchild, so he had been sober since childhood.


    The old master nced at him disdainfully. "You old geezer should be content. With such an outstanding boy, whichever girl in town doesn''t have her eye on him if he would just show interest?"


    "You''re right about that." Old Pei instantly felt his mood lift and bantered back, "But don''t be jealous. Your eldest grandson isn''t much worse than little Jing. The second and third sons have their own businesses now too. The fourth is still young. I''m sure in a few years he won''t fall behind either..."


    He deted again thinking about it. Pei Jing and An Zhiqing were the same age, and thetter already had a two-year-old. Meanwhile his son was still a bachelor.


    Zhi Xia had just finished chopping the meat and turned to look for a bowl when she suddenly saw Pei Jinge in, frightening her.


    She instinctively turned her head away anxiously.


    "Zhi Xia, right?" His maic, slightly low voice sounded from behind, making Zhi Xia clench her fingers.


    And Pei Jing saw it all. "You seem very nervous. Are you avoiding me?"


    "Uncle Pei must be joking. I don''t know you and haven''t offended you, so why would I avoid you?" Zhi Xia adjusted her expression and calmly turned around. "I''m just timid and afraid of strangers. Please forgive my rudeness, Uncle Pei."


    Pei Jing looked at her seriously and puzzled. "You really don''t recognize me?"


    Zhi Xia shook her head, but thought to herself: This is bad.


    From his manner, it seemed he must have already investigated her.


    Zhi Xia didn''t feel he would fail to uncover the truth. If he didn''t even have that capability, Pei Jing wouldn''t have be someone An MeiYun admired yet feared.


    But she was determined not to admit it.


    It would be one thing with someone else, but given the current rtions between their families, their statuses, and the circumstances of their meeting that night - it was too awkward and embarrassing.


    A huge social death scene!


    "Humph!" Zhi Xia''s denials amused Pei Jing. "You might not admit it, but we''re both clear about what happened that night."


    After a moment''s hesitation, Pei Jing added, "If you need it...I can take responsibility."


    If it had been another woman, Pei Jing probably would have...


    But no point thinking about what-ifs. He didn''t know what he would have done.


    That night, although he was the one vited, he had gotten aroused too. Otherwise at most some minor advantage could have been taken, not providing the opportunity.


    He had heard many stories before of heroes falling at a beauty''s hands, always scoffing at them.


    If one''s heart was unwilling, how could the body react?


    Yet the reality was, physical stimtion waspletely beyond the brain''s control.


    Zhi Xia was frightened by Pei Jing''s words, staring at him in disbelief. "Take...responsibility? Uncle Pei, what a strange thing to say. I don''t even know you, and there''s nothing I need you to take responsibility for."

 Chapter 38: Recognize it, Destroy It.

    <h4>Chapter 38</h4>


    Oh my god, please let her be destroyed.


    He actually recognized her.


    In novels and TV dramas, misunderstandings lead to eventual truth, yet for her this trope is useless.


    Is it because she doesn''t live in fiction but in reality?


    This is so awkward it''s cringe worthy. The awkwardness is off the charts.


    If only she hadn''te to grandpa''s in a huff, she wouldn''t have run into Pei Jing.


    Xia had no idea that the reason Pei Jing was there was to look for her.


    It also meant that even if she wanted to hide, there was no escape.


    The chopped meat on the cutting board was ready. Pei Jing looked deeply at Xia again.


    He wanted to say more but Mrs. Zhou came in with washed vegetables so he had to abandon the thought.


    The awkwardness wasn''t only for Xia but for Pei Jing too.


    After all the generational divide between them was a big issue.


    Although they weren''t rted by blood, the two families had been close for decades, since the days when grandfather An was still alive.


    Once the two of them got together, it would mean the hierarchy of the two families would be disrupted.


    Old Pei and An had addressed each other as brothers for decades. Their hierarchy would suddenly be elevated. How would they address each other going forward? Truly a headache.


    But Pei Jing felt that because of the bond between the families and what happened between him and Xia, he should take responsibility.


    If he avoided it, never mind if that was unmanly, could he face the care Grandpa An had shown the Pei family over the years?


    When Mrs. Zhou came in, Xia was already mixing the filling.


    Making dumpling filling is key, the same ingredients can taste different based on technique, mixing time and steps. It decides the ultimate vor.


    Xia first added water soaked with spices into the meat filling, then added seasonings and mixed thoroughly to let the filling absorb the moisture and seasonings to be sticky and vorful.


    Chopping meat was tiring already, mixing the filling was even more tiring for her arms.


    She''d mix for a bit then rest, Pei Jing took over the bowl of filling from her. "Let me mix, just tell me when it''s ready."


    With Xia squeezed aside watching, she simply told him she''d sneak out for a break, Mrs. Zhou could add vegetables when the filling was ready.


    Sensing Xia was actively avoiding him, Pei Jing just smiled amusedly.


    He was used to being chased since childhood, this was the first time someone ran away from him.


    Mrs. Zhou didn''t know what he found funny but smiled too. "Xia is a nice girl, though she''s only been here twice. I can tell she''s gentle, thoughtful and hardworking. It''s just a pity..."


    With her background, though she''s found her birth parents now, they have a daughter they''ve raised over ten years who is still theirs by birth. The difference between a daughter by your side from birth and not is still there after all.


    Pei Jing, "She is good, but let''s not speak of pity..."


    Only then did Mrs. Zhou realize her mistake and hurried to correct herself. "Pardon my loose tongue. Xia is the old master''s granddaughter and a good girl, with the old master and madam caring for her, she''ll surely have a good future."


    Pei Jing didn''t fuss over a domestic helper''s words. He mixed the filling to the consistency Xia specified and handed it to Mrs. Zhou. "This should be good, please add the vegetables, Mrs. Zhou."


    "Alright, you go rest too. I''ll take it from here." Then she remembered, "Oh yes, please call Xia toe help with the dumpling wrapping, she said earlier it''d be faster with two people."


    Worried Pei Jing would misunderstand her getting Xia to work, Mrs. Zhou exined.


    Pei Jing nodded and went out calling.


    But he didn''t leave, intending to help too. Wrapping with one person rolling skins and two packing would be even faster.


    With Pei Jing calling her so loudly, Xia couldn''t not go in.


    But when she entered the kitchen, she saw he hadn''t left.


    "I''ll help with the wrapping, it''ll be even faster this way." Pei Jing saw her questioning look and exined, raising a brow.


    Now the girl knew to avoid him. Back then when she threw herself at him...


    Sensing his thoughts growing improper, Pei Jing hurriedly steadied his attitude.


    Despite an intimate encounter, their current rtionship didn''t permit disrespect even in thought.


    "I don''t think you can help." Xia said directly.


    Mrs. Zhou started rolling out skins. She had just finished one when Xia took it, added filling, and with thumbs and index fingers on both hands, pinched out a plump dumpling.


    Mrs. Zhou rolled one, Xia wrapped one. Only then did Pei Jing understand what Xia meant about him not helping.


    Indeed, Xia was very fast. It wasn''t traditional wrapping with inner and outer pleats. There was no room for him to cut in.


    Realizing Xia was intent on avoiding him, Pei Jing helplessly left the kitchen.


    An ZhiAng rode in on his bike carrying wine, chattering nonstop as soon as he entered.


    Xia and Mrs. Zhou worked efficiently together. In just over half an hour, all dumplings were wrapped.


    Mrs. Zhou busied herself preparing snacks while the two old masters put away the chess set outside.


    In the dining room, the two old masters sat together. Xia sat beside Old Madam. After Old Master poured wine for Old Pei, An ZhiAng enthusiastically brought out two bottles of beer from the cab. "Uncle, Uncle, forget the white wine with the old masters. Too harsh on the throat. Let''s crack open some beer?"


    Seeing the bottles, Old Master smiled at Old Madam. "This rascal''s done his research again. I bet he used up our beer ration tickets again?"


    An ZhiAng was shameless. "You and Pei drink white wine. The tickets would just expire unused. I''m helping grandfather out here."


    "Glib tongue!" Old Madamughed at him, then said to Xia, "Have some beer too, Xia. The alcohol content is low, a bit won''t get you drunk."


    Xia nodded and nudged her ss forward for An ZhiAng to pour her some.


    Amon saying she''d heard about in the future, barbecue, beer and crawfish. No barbecue or crawfish here but beer was still good.


    Xia took a small sip. The vor was strong but tasty.


    Mrs. Zhou served the dishes, all vegetarian since there was already meat in the dumplings.


    Peanuts and snap peas, the drinking snacks, were ced before the two old masters. Xia hadughed when grandma said the two could drink a whole afternoon with one te of peanuts.

 Chapter 39: Old Lady鈥檚 Heart

    <h4>Chapter 39</h4>


    "Mrs. Zhou, the filling for these dumplings today is cooked very well. When I take a bite, juicees flowing out. It''s much more juicy and tender than the dumplings we''ve had before. Delicious," Old Master said after taking a bite of a dumpling, his eyes lighting up as he immediately sang praises.


    Mrs. Zhou was just bringing some dishes to the table. She said, "Oh, I certainly don''t dare take credit for that. The filling for today''s dumplings was all made by ZhiXia. Her young uncle helped mix it. I just rolled out the dumpling wrappers. I waszy about it."


    "Then it seems these dumplings weren''t wrapped by you either. The technique ispletely different," Old Pei chimed in.


    Mrs. Zhou justughed amiably. "You have a keen eye, Old Master."


    "Alright, stop working. Come over and eat," Old Madam called out.


    Nowadays, things weren''t as formal as they used to be. Worried about gossip, Mrs. Zhou usually ate at the table with them.


    Only when it was just family and there were too many people to fit at the table, and she was busy cooking, would Mrs. Zhou just quickly grab a bite. But Old Madam would alwayspensate her afterwards, giving her meat, vegetables, and other things to bring back.


    Mrs. Zhou had served them for many years and wasn''t one to grumble. Everyone got along harmoniously, which made things even better.


    ZhiAng An had bought three bottles of beer, and ZhiXia drank about half a bottle.


    She wasn''t drunk, just too full, and kept burping, the scent of alcohol emanating from her nose.


    Embarrassed about beingughed at, she hurriedly made an excuse to retreat back to her room.


    The two old masters drank more and more vigorously. It looked like they wouldn''t finish for a while, and ZhiAng and Pei Jing were still keeping thempany.


    She had only gotten up because Old Madam had.


    The room Old Madam had prepared for ZhiXia wasn''t right next to theirs, because the two elders were light sleepers. They worried any tossing and turning from ZhiXia would also disturb them.


    You had to admit, Old Madam had put a lot of thought into ZhiXia''s amodations.


    ZhiXia entered the room. On the big bed, which showed no signs of previous use, a quilt had first beenid out and then a cool mat on top of that, covered by a thin nket.


    She felt it with her hand. Whether it was the light nket or the quilt underneath, everything was soft and obviously brand new.


    Mrs. Zhou came in from outside holding two pomegranates. "The quilt and nket on this bed were prepared by Madam after yourst visit. There are two thicker ones in the wardrobe she said were for when youe stay in the future, so you''d have everything you need. It''s all new cotton from this year. She used up all her cotton ration tickets for those quilts, and even got some more from Old Pei. Pei Jing happened to be there too, so he also gave his cotton ration tickets to Madam. She made quilts and still had lots of cotton left over. She said in a few days she''ll make you two thick padded jackets too."


    As for the two outfits Old Madam was making now, those were for autumn.


    By rights, Mrs. Zhou wasn''t that old. Based on how she addressed others, she should be the same generation as ZhiXia. But Pei Jing was of a younger generation, so she didn''t fuss over such details and just called him directly by his name.


    As for Pei Jing''s two older brothers, she still respectfully addressed them as Comrade Pei, because of the age difference. Mrs. Zhou wasn''t that close with them.


    On the other hand, Pei Jing had run over frequently since he was small, whether brought by Old Pei or on his own, so Mrs. Zhou was very familiar with him. She interacted with him more casually.


    "I''ve caused Grandmother to go to so much trouble," ZhiXia said, very touched.


    Perhaps it was because her own daughter had died young, but Old Madam had always been fond of girls. Even the few girls from the Pei family often came over to y, and Old Madam never stinted on giving them any nice things she had.


    She treated outsiders this way, let alone An MeiYun, who she had once regarded as her own granddaughter.


    It was just that An MeiYun''s personality as a child had been very unappealing. Especially after she dashed Old Madam''s hopes, Old Madam''s feelings for her inevitably cooled.


    As an adult, An MeiYun oftenined that Old Madam didn''t like her, which was indeed true.


    But now that Old Madam knew ZhiXia was her real granddaughter, she transferred all her grandmotherly affection onto ZhiXia, wanting to treat her as well as possible.


    "It''s not really going to any trouble. Madam is getting on in years, ZhiQing rarelyes back even once a year, and though ZhiRen and the others oftene visit, they''re busy with work too and can never stay long. ZhiAng doese by frequently to keep herpany. Old folks that age just long for their grandchildren to be around. If you can give her more things to fuss over, she''ll be very happy," said Mrs. Zhou. She handed the pomegranates to ZhiXia. "Old Pei''s tree ripened these pomegranates. He brought over half a basket today. Try them and see if you like the vor. I put the rest in the storeroom if you want moreter."


    The storeroom was for odds and ends not in immediate use.


    "Thank you, Mrs. Zhou." ZhiXia epted the pomegranates. They had already been cut open, and she easily twisted one apart.


    Mrs. Zhou brought over a te for her to put them on. "Rest the rinds here for now. I''lle get themter."


    "You don''t need to get them. I''ll bring them out after I finish eating."


    "That works too." Mrs. Zhou didn''t stand on ceremony. But as she was leaving, she added, "ZhiXia, if you have time in the future, stay for a few days. Even if she''s busy, it would make Madam happy in her heart."


    Like the past few days, even though Mrs. Zhou was upied, her whole spirit was clearly different.


    The pomegranates didn''t actually taste that greatpared to ones from her space.


    But ZhiXia still ate half of one.


    Some things, you didn''t eat for the vor, but for the sentiment.


    She wasn''t heartless. She knew clearly who had treated her well.


    Compared to Zhou Nuan, who was nice to her out of guilt, Old Madam''s care came from genuine kindness.


    If she treated outsiders this way, let alone someone she had once thought of as her granddaughter.


    ZhiXia put the remaining half pomegranate on the table and started looking over the room.


    The An family did have some foundation.


    The carved wooden bed and wardrobe were quality wood, evencquered. A full length mirror was inset into the middle of the wardrobe. Standing in front she could see most of herself.


    ZhiXia walked up to the wardrobe and opened the doors. On the top shelf were two brand new quilts, while below hung a few empty wooden hangers.


    ZhiXia opened her bundle of belongings. Inside were four outfits, one she had bought with Zhou Nuan at the department store, another she was currently wearing. She hadn''t had the heart to throw away the one from Zhou ZhiZhi either. Old Madam had bought her two tops she hadn''t worn yet.


    She hung the clothes in the wardrobe. It looked better with some things inside.


    Going to the vanity, she opened the drawers.


    The drawers held two keys, probably for the vanity drawers. There was also a watch inside.

 Chapter 40: The Gears of Destiny Have Changed

    <h4>Chapter 40</h4>


    ZhiXia took out her watch and saw that it was brand new.


    The old madam knocked on the open wooden door twice. When ZhiXia looked back, she asked her, "How do you feel? Are you satisfied with this room?"


    "I''m very satisfied, thank you Granny." ZhiXia held the watch in her hand. Although she knew well in her heart, she still asked, "Is this for me?"


    "I don''t know what you young people like. I just had the salesman get me thetest style. Wearing it on your wrist to check the time and such is also more convenient." The old madam walked in, looking around the room with a reminiscent gaze. "The furniture in this room is still made of that sour jujube wood that the old master prepared for your young aunt back then. It was originally intended as her dowry, but unfortunately that child passed away early and didn''t get to use it. In thest two years before the old master passed away, he personally had someone make this furniture, saying that he was getting old and afraid he wouldn''t live to see his great granddaughter''s wedding..."


    In the blink of an eye, another ten years had passed.


    In those years, the old master went with Old Pei to make revolution,ing back home only once every few years. She raised two children at home relying on the old master.


    The old master really loved children, caring for them inside and out, and didn''t have those conservative ideas of favoring sons over daughters that other families had.


    Just as the war was won and good days were about toe, her daughter was killed by bandits.


    Thinking of those events, the old madam couldn''t help feeling distressed in her heart.


    Forcing down that suffocating feeling, the old madam calmed herself for a good while before speaking again. "ZhiXia, don''t look down on this wood in your heart. Although the old master didn''t know of your existence when making this furniture, if the old master had known, he would have loved you even more. As for An MeiYun, the old master said more than once that even as a child she was too utilitarian and sharp, and that it would be trouble if she wasn''t raised well. But after all she is of our family''s bloodline, and as long as she didn''t make big mistakes, she still couldn''t be mistreated. It''s just unexpected that the old master''s words really came true. If it weren''t for my lucky granddaughter, she really could have harmed me. If the old master knew she wasn''t our family''s own and that his dear great granddaughter was wandering outside, who knows how heartbroken he would have been."


    Being sold into the mountains, even if she could keep her life, what kind of days would she spend?


    Whenever the old madam thought of this, her teeth itched with anger.


    There was also Zhou Nan. Back then she didn''t like her, feeling she was too petty.


    But the old master said, after the victory of the war the times would probably change greatly, and their family was already quite wealthy, marrying a rich daughter-inw might cause trouble.


    Although Zhou Nan didn''t have much experience, she was kind and good looking, and her natal family were all amiable. Marrying into the family she wouldn''t cause trouble, so the old master couldn''t harm his own grandson, and she conceded to epting this daughter-inw.


    Afterwards, everything happened just as the old master said, and she didn''t have any objections to Zhou Nan, instead feeling quite fortunate.


    Of course, it would be even better if she didn''t currently clearly favor An MeiYun.


    In her opinion, An MeiYun should have been sent back to the Gao family as soon as ZhiXia returned. She wouldn''t even have given her the chance to go to the countryside under the guise of being an An family child.


    As for whether the Gao family was still there and how An MeiYun would live after returning, the old madam wouldn''t consider these things at all.


    The child of someone who had harmed her own flesh and blood, she could already show mercy by letting her leave intact.


    But as people got older they had to resign themselves to old age, and she was no longer the matriarch with the final say.


    Forcibly making that girl leave miserably, then causing estrangement between mother and son, really wouldn''t be worth it.


    She had already urged ZhiYang to go back and get to the bottom of things.


    If that girl could really use even her own marriage, and cause estrangement between mother and son, then she could no longer let An MeiYun bear the An family name.


    If this marriage was fake, she would still have to obediently go to the countryside, and wouldn''t be able to escape.


    ZhiXia also wanted to know if An MeiYun''s marriage was real or fake!


    Although the jujube wood furniture had been made for over ten years, it was still well preserved.


    ZhiXia certainly wouldn''t look down on the furniture for being originally made not for her. To be urate, it wasn''t made for An MeiYun either, but for her young aunt who passed away early.


    She was more willing to believe that after making that assessment of An MeiYun, the old master making her this furniture was actually hoping to find her young aunt''s shadow in her, after all that was the child the old master had raised.


    It was just a pity that she was a fake to begin with, and naturally didn''t have the An family bloodline, nor any resemnce to her young aunt.


    Taking a ruler from her space, she measured herself and found that she had indeed grown a little, just 1 centimeter, but it made her happy for a long time.


    Her hair had also grown some, currently reaching below her shoulders, and although still somewhat yellowish wasn''t as dry and brittle.


    After a little while, the voices outside stopped.


    ZhiYang said Old Pei had been supported back by Pei Jing, and ZhiXia felt truly relieved in her heart.


    She was somewhat afraid he woulde looking for her again.


    Although she didn''t n on never marrying in this life, at the very least she didn''t have any thoughts of marriage recently.


    Especially since she hadn''tpletely resolved the crisis in the family yet.


    An JingZhi came by that evening, bringing wee news.


    An MeiYun had indeed married, and the groom was the Lin Hao she had mentioned.


    Although the Lin family was ordinary, Lin Hao was promising and talented. Relying on his own research abilities and the family connections, he currently worked in an agency.


    An JingZhi wanted to advise ZhiXia to return, but was refused.


    She had chosen to leave the An family after An MeiYun''s marriage, and of course wouldn''t change her mind in a moment''s temper.


    She had long known An MeiYun wouldn''t obediently go to the countryside. Her original n was to drive An MeiYun out before making a move, but the old master and madam''s intervention had elerated the timeline.


    Lin Hao was still An MeiYun''s husband from her previous life. It''s just that in this life they had gotten together a full two years earlier than the previous life.


    The gears of fate had already changed, it''s just that this time, the initiative was in her hands.


    An MeiYun, revenge, was only truly beginning now.

 Chapter 41: Going to Sycamore Lane to find someone.

    <h4>Chapter 41</h4>


    The gentle breeze blew softly as the rays of the sunset radiated across thend. It was truly a lovely day.


    ZhiXia had just opened the door when her grandfather called out, "ZhiXia, are you going out?"


    "Yes, I''m going to the literacy ss. Dad said I should try to learn as many words as I can," ZhiXia gently replied.


    "Your dad just wants the best for you. Go on then, but remember toe home early. It doesn''t matter if you can''t learn everything - when you get back, grandpa will teach you," the old man affectionately reminded her.


    The literacy ss was held in a fixed location, with one session after lunch and two after dinner every day. Attendance was optional and no one kept track.


    However, ever since ZhiXia started going, she hadn''t missed a single session, attending twice daily without fail.


    Today was no different.


    But after leaving the literacy ss, she didn''t hurry home. Instead, she walked further and further in the opposite direction.


    "ZhiXia, are you going home?" Zhao Jingyun, the literacy teacher, called out to her. She was in her 30s and in poor health, forcing her to quit her job. But staying home all day was boring, so she volunteered to teach at the literacy ss, working without pay. The teachers took turns, so she only came asionally, just enough to relieve her boredom without taxing her health.


    Hearing someone call her name, ZhiXia looked back to see Zhao Jingyun sitting on the back of a bicycle, her husband braking to a stop beside her.


    "No, I''m going to Locust Alley to take care of something," ZhiXia replied. "Teacher Zhao, are you going home?"


    Zhao nodded. "Yes, my husband came to pick me up. What a coincidence - we also live near Locust Alley. Shall we give you a ride? It''s quite far, who knows how long it would take you to walk there alone."


    "Wouldn''t that be too much trouble?" ZhiXia regretted not knowing how to ride a bike. She had poor bnce - whenever An ZhiAng let go, she felt like she would fall.


    Luckily, she didn''t usually go far. An ZhiAng apanied her when she needed to travel.


    "No trouble at all. You can sit on the back," Zhao said, pinching her husband''s waist as if to scold him for hesitating.


    "Thank you, Teacher Zhao. Please excuse the imposition, sir," ZhiXia finally sat on the bike''s rear rack, gripping it tightly without touching the people in front.


    Luckily the road was t and the ride smooth without incident.


    "ZhiXia, what business could you possibly have in Locust Alley sote, alone without family?" Zhao''s petite figure was hunched over the handlebars, tilting her head down without obscuring her vision.


    ZhiXia''s eyes flickered nervously, but no one noticed. "I''m going to see Supervisor Liang about something."


    The silent man suddenly braked, nting a foot on the ground to stop the bike.


    ZhiXia quickly jumped off, looking confused and innocent, as if unsure what she had done wrong.


    Zhao dismounted as well, standing perplexedly before ZhiXia. "Why are you looking for Supervisor Liang? The Supervisor Liang from the Thought Committee?"


    ZhiXia nodded timidly. "I... Can I not say?"


    The man scoffed at her mouse-like cowardice. "Which family are you from? Who told you toe looking for me?"


    "You''re Supervisor Liang?" ZhiXia looked shocked.


    Under her astounded gaze, the Liangs nced at each other, both finding the girl quite amusing.


    After ZhiXia nodded, she became even more flustered. "I... I heard that Supervisor Liang''s wife is ill and needs ginseng to nourish her health. I happen to have some, so I thought... I thought..."


    She ducked her head, swallowing nervously, unable to get the words out as she shrank back timidly.


    "You have ginseng? What year?" A hint of excitement shed through Liang Zhiwei''s eyes before he became guarded again. "Also, who told you I needed ginseng?"


    "My third brother, a doctor at the hospital on Peace Road - An ZhiXian. He was helping someone look for ginseng," ZhiXia looked at them beseechingly. "Teacher Zhao, are you the one who needs ginseng to recover your health? Please don''t tell my brother about this. I snuck out without telling my family."


    The Liangs exchanged another look, both with disbelief in their eyes.


    "Little girl, you snuck ginseng from your family to give to us. Are you sure you won''t get beaten when you go back? Also, if An ZhiXian is your brother, why keep it from him? You''re not plotting something, are you?" As Supervisor Liang, he couldn''t let anyone try to deceive him. That would just be handing him an achievement.


    "I''m not plotting anything, really!" ZhiXia widened her eyes. To convince them, she revealed her entire background, including how An MeiYun had mistreated her, forcing her to move out.


    Of course she embellished parts to give apletely different impression.


    "I''m really not plotting anything, believe me. I dug up that ginseng myself when I lived in the countryside. It''s mine - I haven''t told anyone. I... I don''t want to go back to the countryside. I heard from the alley aunties that I could trade ginseng for a job, so when I heard my brother was looking for ginseng, I... I kept it in mind..."


    She left the rest for them to imagine.


    As for how she knew about this couple''s circumstances, that was thanks to her memories from her past life.


    Recently, she had thoroughly sorted through those deep memories, rifying many nearly forgotten events - including those about Zhao Jingyun and Liang Zhiwei.


    "Do you want it? If not, I''ll take it to the purchaser." ZhiXia mumbled, "I just don''t know how much money the purchaser will pay - will it be enough to get a job?"


    Liang Zhiwei had also heard thingstely, about the An family''s circumstances already spreading through their social circle.


    Some ridiculed An JingZhi and his wife for being so stupid they didn''t realize their child had been switched. Others angrily condemned the Gao couple for their cruel hearts.


    But most were more concerned with what would be of the adopted daughter now that the biological one had returned.


    Preupied with his wife''s illness, Liang Zhiwei hadn''t paid it much attention. But he had heard things, and secretly cursed An JingZhi forcking human decency towards his wife.


    At the same time, he envied the world''s unfairness.


    Some people with many children didn''t care at all, while he and his wife had spent years taking medicines and seeing doctors just to have one child, only damaging his wife''s health with nothing to show for it.

 Chapter 42: Trying to Find a seam to get down.

    <h4>Chapter 42</h4>


    "Did you bring the ginseng?" Liang Zhiwei was now convinced of An ZhiXia''s story, of course, this was on the premise that he would have to see the ginseng first before saying anything.


    "I brought it." ZhiXia acted like aplete novice, immediately reaching to rummage through her bag after hearing this.


    Liang Zhiwei quickly stopped her, "Don''t move yet, let''s go over there to talk about it."


    Liang Zhiwei took Zhao Jingyun''s arm with one hand, and led the way to the quiet ce behind them. ZhiXia hurried to follow.


    The thick trees cast shadows down, blocking out the moonlight and starlight.


    ZhiXia carefully took out the wrapped ginseng from her bag with both hands, and passed it over gingerly.


    Liang Zhiwei brought it around to the slightly brighter area in front to inspect it carefully after unwrapping the red cloth around the ginseng.


    Zhao Jingyun''s illness was caused byplications from a previous miscarriage. She often felt physically weak, and part of it was also caused by psychological issues. She would feel unwell over the slightest upset, sometimes even too unwell to get out of bed, so she could only rest well to recuperate.


    Although Zhao Jingyun came from a well-off family background, she had resolutely followed him when Liang Zhiwei had nothing. Their rtionship had always been very good even until today.


    Even after knowing Zhao Jingyun could no longer conceive after the miscarriage, Liang Zhiwei still treated her the same as before. He had tired every effort to find ginseng to nourish her.


    But this stuff was rare to begin with, and older ones were even harder to find.


    Despite looking closely, Liang Zhiwei actually had no clue at all.


    "Did you get someone to look at this ginseng? How old is it?"


    ZhiXia: "No, I just dried it at home and put it away. I didn''t dare let anyone see it."


    Liang Zhiwei said: "Little girl, why don''t we do this - leave the ginseng with me for now. I''ll get someone to authenticate it tomorrow. If it''s real, don''t sell it anymore. You wanted a job right? I''ll give you a job in exchange for the ginseng, what do you think?"


    Zhao Jingyun walked over to touch his arm, clearly disapproving of how he was bullying others.


    "Really? You won''t lie to me right?" ZhiXia did not seem to notice at all, and asked innocently.


    Liang Zhiweiughed, "Since you already found out about my family, what else would I lie to you for?"


    "Then I''ll trust you. But don''t forget, if the ginseng is real, you must arrange a job for me. Otherwise I heard people without jobs can''t stay in the city." ZhiXia''s acquiescent manner made Liang Zhiwei even more certain that she would not dare lie to him.


    People tended to be arrogant, especially considering his current status and position. Although not a very high office, his power was quite extensive.


    Even those with higher positions, with the right pretext, could be brought down if he wanted.


    Zhao Jingyun felt he was bullying others too much. Or perhaps she also felt ZhiXia was too pitiful, so she spoke up, "ZhiXia, what kind of job do you want? Do you have something in mind?"


    "I didn''t go to school so I don''t know what I can do. But I''m very good at cooking, and I like cooking too." ZhiXia looked expectant, "I heard there''s a state-run restaurant near where my third brother works at the hospital. I''d be so happy if I could have the chance to learn cooking skills there."


    Liang Zhiwei looked at her and said, "You''re pretending to be silly, but you''re actually quite shrewd, even daring to think of a job at a state-run restaurant. You have great ambition!"


    But the Ans were a family of schrs, the eldest son was even a military man, yet the daughter wanted to be a cooking apprentice.


    Although others thought working at a restaurant was a good job with food and lodging secured, An JingZhi might not see it that way.


    After all, the Ans were notcking food. Back in the days, even famous chefs in Jin City worked for them!


    How things have changed.


    This was truly interesting, very interesting indeed.


    Seeing his smug manner, Zhao Jingyun secretly pinched his waist again, "Since ZhiXia wants to work at the state-run restaurant, do you have connections there? This child has had it rough too. Let''s help if we can."


    "I do have connections, but I still need to confirm if the ginseng works first." Liang Zhiwei thought for a moment, "Let''s do this -e to the state-run restaurant on Peace Road at noon tomorrow and wait for me there. As long as I confirm the ginseng works, I''ll help settle the job issue for you while I''m there."


    "Thank you so much Director Liang, and Teacher Zhao. You are both good people." ZhiXia bowed 90 degrees in gratitude.


    Liang Zhiweiughed out loud, "It''ste, unsafe for a girl to walk alone at night. Go home early, An. I truly hope we can continue this harmonious chat tomorrow."


    That would mean the ginseng was real.


    People always said he was crafty and scheming. No one had called him a good man in a long time.


    On the way back, Zhao Jingyun reminded Liang Zhiwei again, "This girl seems pretty decent to me, and pitiful too. After you settle the job for her tomorrow, give her 200 yuan too. We can''t bully her just because she''s young."


    "Alright, I''ll listen to you on family matters. As long as it can nourish you back to health, 200 yuan is nothing. I''d even give my life for you." Liang Zhiwei added, "Don''t think we''re taking huge advantage either. This is a mutually beneficial thing. Didn''t you hear her say she didn''t even dare let the Ans know about the ginseng? That shows her situation at the Ans isn''t good. By arranging a job for her, I''d be helping her big time. Otherwise if I just gave her money and she had to figure out work herself as a girl, she might get tricked and end up with nothing."


    The more Liang Zhiwei thought about it, the more he felt her real objective was probably the job all along. Otherwise how could she have decided where she wanted to work already.


    But Liang Zhiwei did not feel anything was amiss. It was only normal for her to have demands. It would be weird if she readily gave him the ginseng and asked for nothing in return.


    "She''s a pitiful child too. Let''s help if we can, it''ll be blessing ourselves too."


    After finishing up, ZhiXia headed back the way she came. She was walking steadily at first, then started hopping and skipping happily.


    The first task went very smoothly. Next was to see how An MeiYun''s progress went.


    She truly hoped An MeiYun and Lin Hao''s rtionship would develop quickly, and they would fall in love and be together forever.


    After all, their marriage this life was two years earlier than thest. Without enough feelings, how could the radish be pulled out with the mud?


    But waiting two years for them to develop feelings was really too long. She would run out of patience.


    Pei Jing was riding out on his bicycle to look for someone, and saw this scene from afar.


    The girl was skipping and jumping ahead excitedly, her round eyes filled withughter, asionally cheering and iling about.


    It looked...a little abnormal, silly and not too clever.


    Pei Jing rode up to ZhiXia and stopped in front of her, "You seem very happy?"


    ZhiXia froze instantly, recalling the embarrassing actions she made thinking no one was around. She really felt like finding a crack to burrow into right now.

 Chapter 43: What Is Understanding

    <h4>Chapter 43</h4>


    "Not bad," she thought. It would have been an even better mood if she hadn''t seen him.


    Zhi Xia straightened her body, holding onto the front pockets of the military green shoulder bag that her grandmother had made for her. "What a coincidence, Uncle Pei. What are you doing out sote?"


    "I came out specifically to look for you, to talk?" Pei Jing deliberately emphasized the word "specifically" and raised his eyebrows at Zhi Xia.


    "I don''t think we have anything to talk about. You''ve got the wrong person, Uncle Pei. I''m not the person you''re looking for," said Zhi Xia, the corners of her lips turning up into a perfunctory smile.


    It was deliberately dismissive.


    Pei Jing looked at her very seriously, but he couldn''t discern anything from her eyes.


    This also meant that she was telling the truth and had no intention of taking responsibility.


    However, he still said, "I, Pei Jing, 26 years old, currently serving in the military with decent benefits, deputy regimental level, with a monthly allowance of fifty-six yuan, not including various other subsidies. Although you don''t admit it, this concerns the rest of your life. I hope you''ll carefully consider it. I can give you time."


    The world wasn''t that open-minded yet.


    It wasn''t that Pei Jing was pestering her, but he had his own concerns too.


    No matter what the situation was at the time, the marital deed between Zhi Xia and him could not be changed.


    Society judged men and women differently.


    This meant that if he didn''t take responsibility for her, even if she found a partner in the future, this would be like a time bomb.


    If her partner found out she had already done that before marriage, he would likely look down on her, potentially leading to tragic consequences.


    After careful consideration, marrying her was the best oue for both of them.


    "I''ll say it again, you''ve got the wrong person," Zhi Xia said firmly.


    Pei Jing was also very helpless. "My offer remains valid until I decide to find a wife in the future. You cane to me anytime during this period. For now, no matter if I''ve got the wrong person or not, pleasee with me. I''ll take you home."


    This time, Zhi Xia didn''t refuse.


    After getting off her bike, she simply said "Thank you" and tried to go inside.


    Pei Jing called out to stop her. "Are you free tomorrow? Let me teach you how to ride a bike. It''ll definitely be more convenient once you''ve learned. Your fourth brother is leaving soon too, and he can''t always take you around."


    "I''m not free tomorrow, but I will learn how to ride a bike properly. Thank you for the kind offer, Uncle Pei. Goodbye." Zhi Xia waved and closed the door.


    Tomorrow, she had to first sort out work matters, then build a friendly rtionship with Liang Zhiwei''s wife, before taking the next steps ording to n.


    She wanted revenge, but she also needed to make ns for her career. She absolutely could not be the kind of woman who could only rely on others and be a wallflower, like An Meiyun had said.


    She had to work hard and strive towards a wonderful future. She absolutely could not fall because of a man.


    Once she survived the next seven years, the country would open up reforms. She would only be in her early twenties then. With money and a career, what was there to fear about not having a good man?


    By then, she wanted to raise a few pet boys - one to sing for her, one to dance for her, one to cook for her, one to cheer her up...


    Just thinking about those days filled her with anticipation.


    Work hard! Persevere for your dreams!


    ...


    Zhi Xia''s life at grandma''s ce was very fulfilling.


    However, early in the morning, she saw Zhou Nan bringing An Meiyun over, while little Wen Qing was already sitting on grandpa''sp.


    Zhi Xia walked over with a smile and reached out her hands to Wen Qing, "Little Wen Qing, can you give Auntie a hug?"


    After just one day apart, Wen Qing naturally remembered this auntie who had yed with him for many days. He reached out his hands to let her pick him up, and asked why she wasn''t going home.


    Zhi Xia held him in her arms and gave him an excuse. Only then did grandpa have time to ask Zhou Nan, "Why are you all here so early in the morning?"


    "Dad, I just brought Meiyun over to see you all, and also to ask Zhi Xia when she ns to go back home," said Zhou Nan, no longer as sharp as yesterday. His tone was a little ingratiating as he looked at Zhi Xia, "Meiyun and her partner have registered their marriage, and they n to have the wedding in a few days. After that, she''ll move to her inws'' ce..."


    The implication was that with An Meiyun leaving, Zhi Xia should go back.


    An Meiyun also chimed in, "Sister Zhi Xia, I know you don''t like me. Now I''ve done as you wished and will no longer live at home. At most, I''lle back during holidays to see mom and dad. Surely you can''t still disagree with even this tiny request?"


    "With what standing are you saying these things to me?" Zhi Xia asked her. "What right do you have to demand that I must agree to your requests? The rtionship between my parents and I is our business and has nothing to do with you. What''s the point of you pretending to be kind here? Do you think it makes you sound considerate? To me, it just sounds obnoxious."


    "Zhi Xia!" Zhou Nan shouted, "Mom doesn''t ask you to be very considerate, but don''t you think your aggressive attitude makes you look like a shrew?"


    Old Madam walked out of the room with a calm yet terrifying face. "Zhi Qing, have you forgotten who is the child that Ibored to conceive and give birth to?"


    As soon as Old Madam said this, An Meiyun''s face instantly turned ghastly pale.


    Zhou Nan was also very ufortable. "Mom, of course I remember. But I raised Meiyun since she was just a little baby. I only hope they can get along harmoniously. I hope we can have peace as a family, is that so wrong?"


    Old Madam said, "You''re hoping for too much. How can everything in this world go ording to your wishes?"


    "Mom, I really didn''t mean it that way." Zhou Nan had always felt a lot of pressure in front of Old Madam. Now that she was targeting him, he didn''t even know how to exin anymore. It felt like everything he said was wrong.


    "Perhaps your heart didn''t mean it that way, but your actions don''t allow for any other interpretation," Old Madam tore off thest veil covering Zhou Nan''s heart. "Human hearts are fickle. It''s not only those who pretend to be pitiful and speak softly that are sincere. Zhi Xia''s words may be blunt, but every sentence is the truth. Zhi Qing, I believe you''re not a brainless person either. Go back and think carefully about how to treat your child. When you''ve figured it out,e fetch Zhi Xia back. If you can''t think it through, your father and I can tough it out in our old age and let Zhi Xia live here from now on. We won''t starve to death."

 Chapter 44: Not to be Fooled

    <h4>Chapter 44</h4>


    Old Mrs. Zhou''s voice was neither hurried nor slow, but as a formerdy of the household, each of her words hit Zhou Nan''s heart, making it flutter.


    Yet An MeiYun''s pretentious words were like a joke, inescapable.


    After leaving the front gate, An MeiYun carefully nced at Zhou Nan''s expression and heard her say, "MeiYun, tell your mother the truth, were you deliberately saying those things just now?"


    Perhaps she hadn''t realized it at the time, but after the olddy''s reminder, she suddenly became aware that it was because of MeiYun''s words that Zhao JingYun had properly raised questions.


    And she also felt that Zhao JingYun was too insensitive. Things were already going as she wished, MeiYun had already used marriage as the price to leave home, yet she was still pestering.


    Clearly, when she first came, she intended to advise Zhao JingYun well so that she would return home, but in that instant just now, she hadpletely forgotten.


    "Mother, do you think so poorly of me too? Is it true that I have be a redundant existence in this family?" An MeiYun looked aggrieved.


    But Zhou Nan sighed, also feeling very embarrassed internally.


    The biological child and the one raised by hand, how should she make a choice between them? Why did this kind of thing have to happen to her?


    Her life had gone well for most of her years, but at the happiest time she was being strangled by the neck, which was how she felt now.


    "Let''s go home first, we''ll talk more there." Zhou Nan thought that if Zhao JingYun didn''t want toe back, she wouldn''te back for now. In a few days when MeiYun got married, everything would be fine.


    After they left, Zhao JingYun was still holding Little WenQing in her arms.


    Blinking at the olddy, Zhao JingYun said, "Granny, did they forget WenQing here?"


    "Your mother''s mind really gets more muddled as she gets older. It didn''t use to show before. Let him stay here for now. They''ll naturallye to pick him up when they remember," said the olddy, ying with WenQing.


    In fact, it didn''t take long before Zhou Nan, already halfway riding her bike home, suddenly realized she hadn''t brought the child back and turned around again to get him.


    With WenQing gone, Zhao JingYun, having nothing to do, locked herself in her room again.


    At the entrance of the Ping''an State-run Hotel, Zhao JingYun was carrying a package of six mung bean cakes she had made by hand in her space at noon, wrapped in oiled paper.


    Liang Zhiwei rode over smiling, stopped in front of Zhao JingYun, and said, "Get on first."


    Zhao JingYun, as if unguarded, got on the back seat of the bike without even asking.


    Liang Zhiwei didn''t go far, but stopped in a secluded ce nearby.


    "I''ve had someone look at the ginseng. It''s from the 1960s or 1970s, but there''s one thing I have to ask you. Apprentices in the state-run hotel kitchen have to umte seniority. The first year''s sry is 18.5 yuan. It goes up by 2 yuan for the first 3 years. After 3 years ofpleting apprenticeship, you can be a master chef with a sry of 36 yuan. But if you choose to be a formal server, you start at 24.6 yuan. You decide."


    Zhao JingYun still looked at him gently, "Director Liang, can I be an apprentice?"


    Liang Zhiwei nodded, "You can."


    After speaking, he took out 200 yuan from his pocket that he had prepared long ago, "Girl, don''t say I took advantage of you. Aside from getting you the job, I''m giving you 200 yuan for that ginseng."


    "Director Liang, you''ve already helped me tremendously by finding me a job. I can''t take the money."


    Zhao JingYun refused, but Liang Zhiwei directly put it in her palm, "Take what I give you. I''m a grown man. I can''t have people say I bullied a child behind my back. "


    In fact, if Zhao JingYun hadn''t urged him, he wouldn''t have felt the money burning his hand.


    No matter what, he was taking advantage.


    If he took out the ginseng to sell, it would definitely fetch over 1000 yuan. If used for connections, it would be even more worthwhile.


    But he was keeping it for his wife to use. If it could really improve his wife''s health, it would be priceless to him.


    Speaking of which, Liang Zhiwei muttered again.


    If it were anything else, he wouldn''t blink an eye cheating others. But something for his wife to use, her health was already poor. Would it damage his virtue?


    In recent years, for Zhao JingYun''s health, Liang Zhiwei had visited all the big and small hospitals in Jincheng, and done all kinds of begging gods and buddhas in secret.


    When it came to Zhao JingYun, he cared 100 times over.


    In recent years, although his work had been difficult, and he did everything to get promoted, he never got involved with doctors, even if they werebeled one of the "Four Olds" of traditional Chinese medicine. He would never touch them.


    You never know when you might need their help one day.


    After some demurring, Zhao JingYun epted the money, but handed the mung bean cakes to Liang Zhiwei, "Director Liang, I''m really so grateful to you. You really are a good person. I don''t have anything worthwhile, so I made these mung bean cakes specially to give you and Teacher Zhao a taste. Please don''t look down on them."


    Liang Zhiwei found it very interesting internally.


    No matter if she was truly naive or pretending to be naive, this was still the first time someone had praised him as a good person since bing Director Liang over the years.


    "Alright, I won''t stand on ceremony with this." Liang Zhiwei took the mung bean cakes and hung them on his bike.


    Liang Zhiwei didn''t suspect at all that Zhao JingYun was approaching him with ill intentions. A girl who had juste from the countryside, at best she was calcting for her own future, what great skills could she have?


    Moreover, he hadn''t offended anyone either.


    Speaking of which, he thought of something. "You''ve had it pretty rough. Uncle doesn''t mind helping you a bit more. I heard the Gao family who switched with you still have a pair of children. They bullied you a lot before. Do you need me to avenge you?"


    His work had been difficult these past few years. The bunch in the city were crafty, hard to catch wrongdoing.


    Criticizing a couple people didn''t count as an achievement, but it was just a sentence for him. The underlings scrambled to do it.


    He was also in a good mood today. And seeing the girl''s silly look of being sold without realizing it, he rarely felt charitable.


    Usually, Director Liang wouldn''t do such thankless things.


    "Forget it. They bullied me before also because someone directed them to. After all, we were siblings for a period. Now without their parents'' backing, their lives are already hard. I don''t want to..." Zhao JingYun smiled self-deprecatingly, "Let bygones be bygones. I don''t want to bring up the past again. But still, thank you for Director Liang''s kindness. Well...although I can''t help Director Liang with big things, I''m especially knowledgeable about little snacks like mung bean cakes and chestnut cakes. If you like them, I''ll make them for you to eat next time."


    Liang Zhiwei looked at the mung bean cakes on the bike. He didn''t know what was inside the oiled paper package, but the thought was already touching.


    Unfortunately, he never believed anyone would be foolish enough to give without asking for something in return.

 Chapter 45: Ann Mei Yun object鈥檚 father, dear

    <h4>Chapter 45</h4>


    "Come on, let''s talk as we walk," Liang Zhiwei said, pushing his bicycle to gesture for Zhi Xia to walk ahead. "Youngdy, seeing that you have this intention, your teacher Zhao''s efforts in speaking well for youst night were not in vain."


    In the past few days, Zhi Xia had been going to the literacy sses every day. Although she had never taken the initiative to interact with Zhao Jingyun, she had portrayed a bullied little white rabbit to perfection.


    Seeing Liang Zhiwei''s manner of speaking, she felt her efforts had not been wasted either.


    "It''s only right, I don''t know much or understand right and wrong. I just feel that whoever is good to me, I should be good to them too. Teacher Zhao is a gentle person. I don''t know why, I just really like her, like her soft tone when she speaks to me. I always feel that a mother''s demeanor should be like hers..."


    These were not Zhi Xia''s feelings, but Liang Zhiwei''s. She was just borrowing the confession Liang Zhiwei had made in his previous life about Zhao Jingyun.


    Liang Zhiwei was also an orphan back then. Having endured the coldness of the world since childhood, he was attracted by Zhao Jingyun''s temperament when he met her by chance.


    It was fate that brought the two together, but it was an ill-fated bond.


    Although the Zhao family had declined after the founding of the People''s Republic of China, they still had a good foundation. During the period of public-private partnership, Zhao''s father was still a shareholder of the silk shop. Naturally, he looked down on Liang Zhiwei, a mere orphan.


    But Zhao Jingyun insisted, and as the only daughter of the family, Zhao''s father had no choice but to reluctantly agree to the marriage, with Liang Zhiwei entering the Zhao household in a semi-dependent marital rtionship.


    Later, the Zhao family was reported for hoarding arge amount of gold, silver, and antiques. Zhao''s father was also sent to abor camp. Zhao Jingyun was forced to sever ties with her father to protect herself. It was during that time that she had a miscarriage that ruined her health, leaving an irremovable heartache.


    Meanwhile, Liang Zhiwei managed to reverse his fortunes and climbed up the ideologicalmittee, bing the prestigious Director Liang after years of hard work.


    Zhao''s father was the old master who gave Zhi Xia the red jade pendant when he was sent to An Le Vige. He had picked up the pendant in thepost pile after being sent away. Zhao''s father had an eye for valuables and recognized that the pendant was no ordinary piece, so he hid it away. Later, on his deathbed, he gave it to Zhi Xia. At that time, Zhi Xia had not been detained by the Gao family yet. Zhao''s father probably took pity on her.


    Unfortunately, she did not know to hide it at the time, and it was snatched away by Gao Erniang.


    Zhao''s father died without ever knowing that the person who reported him was none other than Liang Zhiwei. He was grateful to have found such a good son-inw who did not abandon his daughter despite his downfall.


    Whenever Zhi Xia thought about that period and heard Old Master Zhao talk about his daughter, her heart ached.


    Perhaps ignorance was bliss. At least Old Master Zhao left this world rtively at peace.


    Sure enough, Zhi Xia''s words struck a chord with Liang Zhiwei.


    He still remembered the feeling when he first saw Zhao Jingyun hand him a sesame cake back when he was still begging on the streets.


    Initially, he just wanted to look at her. Later, she was so kind to him, and even found him odd jobs at a store after learning of his background, thus giving him a chance to get to know her.


    Perhaps reminded of his past wrongdoings, Liang Zhiwei suddenly lost the smile on his face and fell silent.


    It was not until they entered the state-run restaurant that he put on his fake face again, smiling so widely that wrinkles appeared. "Old Lin, busy?"


    A man wearing a chef''s hat and apron came out from the back. "Director Liang! You sure know how to pick your time. It''s almost meal time, we''re rushed off our feet back there."


    "It''s on my way, so I brought her over." Liang Zhiwei walked forward a few steps and whispered something to Lin Zheng that Zhi Xia did not hear.


    But after he finished speaking, Lin Zheng looked Zhi Xia up and down and called to her, "You''re Zhi Xia, right?"


    Liang Zhiwei reminded her from the side, "Zhi Xia, this is the head chef of our state-run restaurant, Chef Lin. Go on, greet him."


    "Hello Chef." Zhi Xia hurriedly greeted him and bowed.


    Lin Zheng nodded, acknowledging her.


    Liang Zhiwei patted Lin Zheng''s shoulder twice. "I''ll leave my niece to you, you''d better teach her well, no cking!"


    "With our rtionship, your niece is my niece. We''re all family." Lin Zheng thought to himself, if this old fox was sending the girl here in exchange for money, he wouldn''t exhort so meticulously.


    It seemed he had to pay special attention to thisss.


    Zhi Xia''s words must have struck a chord with Liang Zhiwei.


    He felt not only love for Zhao Jingyun, but also unspoken guilt.


    She had saved him and favored him, yet because of some verbal disagreement, he harmed the Zhao family and also...harmed their marriage.


    At that time, he did not know she was already pregnant.


    Thinking of that unborn child, Liang Zhiwei felt a pang of distress.


    It was no wonder Zhao Jingyun was fond of Zhi Xia, after all Zhi Xia''s background was pitiful enough, especially for someone who had been a mother before. Zhao Jingyun too, had once had the chance to be a mother.


    After Liang Zhiwei left, Lin Zheng called Zhi Xia into the kitchen. "Have you cooked before? Can you chop vegetables?"


    Zhi Xia: "I''ve cooked at home before, I can chop vegetables."


    Lin Zheng asked Zhi Xia several more questions, to which she responded.


    Suddenly, he asked again, "Lass, now that you''vee under me, do you know who I am?"


    For a moment, Zhi Xia was stumped, then answered, "The head chef of the state-run restaurant, Chef Lin, and also my new master from now on."


    "Not a bad answer, but I have another identity - I''m An Meiyun''s father, her biological one." Lin Zheng observed Zhi Xia''s expression after he said this. Seeing her bow her head and fall silent after his words,


    heughed and continued, "Still want to learn cooking from me now? It''s fine if you''re unwilling, I''ll have Director Liang arrange another family for you. With his connections, it won''t be difficult to do this small favor."


    Although he did not know how Zhi Xia became Liang Zhiwei''s niece, in his eyes, whether it was Zhi Xia or An Meiyun, it was just childish pettiness.


    Even knowing about their rtionship, when Liang Zhiwei told him he was sending a special person to be his apprentice, he did not refuse.


    Perhaps he had been dissatisfied with Lin Hao''s decision to marry An Meiyun from the start, but agreed for some reason.


    After a while, Zhi Xia looked up and asked somewhat uneasily, "Master, I just want to properly learn cooking skills. I never went to school, and can''t learn much from literacy sses either, so I can''t do jobs that need education. But I like cooking, and want to have a skill that can at least support myself. If I stay, will you teach me well?"


    "I''m just a cook. One''s children have their own fortune. Other matters are none of my concern. But now that you''ve acknowledged me as your master, there are things I won''t go easy on just because of others. You have to be prepared for that. If you can''t take the hardship and goin..."


    "I won''t, I can endure hardship," Zhi Xia resolutely replied. "As long as Master is willing to teach me well, I will ept any punishment for my mistakes in the future, no matter how much you scold or beat me."


    "Good, you have ambition," Lin Zheng looked at Zhi Xia with some more approval.

 Chapter 46: Primary Zombie Core

    <h4>Chapter 46</h4>


    She had thought that growing up in that kind of rural environment, she should have a timid personality. But now it looks like although she has been suppressed and has some airs of a small family, she still has a tough character at heart.


    He liked people who could resist oppression, because he was that kind of person himself, which was why he was able to reverse his fortunes with sheer determination.


    Whether it was Lin Zheng or Liang Zhiwei, Xiayue understood them thoroughly, and was not afraid they wouldn''t notice her.


    Xiayue''s household registration was still in the countryside. Lin Zheng gave her an employment certificate, then asked her to go back to the vige to transfer her registration back. She woulde back after getting her registration sorted out first.


    She had originally nned not to trouble anyone else, but now it seemed there was no chance of that.


    Her registration would definitely have to be moved to the An family, so it was impossible not to rm An Jingzhi as the head of household. So before doing this, she still had to exin clearly to him that she was going to work at the state-run restaurant.


    Customers had starteding into the restaurant and Lin Zheng was getting busy too, so Xiayue left with her employment certificate.


    Not wanting Zhou Nan and An Meiyun to get involved, she nned to go directly to An Jingzhi''s school in the afternoon.


    For now, she had to go back and eat, otherwise her grandmother would worry.


    This made Xiayue determined once again that she had to learn how to ride a bicycle. Relying solely on her legs, going back and forth was not only tiring, but also too time consuming.


    After lunch, Xiayue did not go to the literacy ss for the first time, but returned to her room instead.


    The crops in the space had matured again. She didn''tck sacks this time, so she harvested everything and put it into sacks, then rented.


    She had never collected eggs from the chickens, ducks and geese wandering around the grass, and now they had multiplied into arge group, with even more little chicks scurrying around in groups.


    The ten little piglets born as soon as she entered the space were now half grown, and the old sow''s belly was big again. Xiayue believed she would give birth again soon.


    Only the sheep was still pregnant, but it probably wouldn''t be long either.


    Xiayue roughly calcted that about a month outside was around four months of time in the space. It was just that there were no seasons in the space, so nts grew very quickly when it was hot.


    Looking further out, there were still many ces Xiayue hadn''t had a chance to explore yet. The space was simply too big for her to take care of everything.


    For example, the coconut she was holding in her hand was picked from a ce very very far away.


    Sucking coconut water through a straw, she opened the trading interface.


    Perhaps because she had arge amount of food now, I''m Not A Zombie hadn''te out since then. There was no trading information during this period.


    She would asionally make some food and share it with others. After all, she had taken so many of their supplies.


    The aquaculture tycoon had asked her for seafood twice, saying the seafood from her side was more delicious than what he bought at the market, and so was the fruit.


    Xiayue also found that although the products from the space didn''t have all the magical effects described in novels, the taste was superb. Long-term consumption was also good for the body.


    I''m Not A Zombie: "Is Little Rich Girl there? I found something good, do you want to try exchanging it for star coins on the trading device?"


    Vintage Little Rich Girl: "???"


    Along with the item transfer message, she chose to receive it.


    The trading device immediately disyed: Primary Zombie Crystal Nucleus x1, exchangeable for 20 star coins. Confirm exchange?


    Xiayue''s eyes lit up instantly. She chose No, then took out the zombie crystal nucleus from her storage space.


    Fortunately, items transmitted through dimensional travel would undergo automatic sterilization, so as not to endanger the current dimension. So there was no need to worry about infection.


    A fingernail-sized transparent crystal appeared in front of the trading interface, with a clear, bright, and glossy texture. It was hard to believe it was taken from the brains of such ugly creatures like zombies.


    I''m Not A Zombie: "This is a crystal nucleus I just discovered in a zombie''s brain. I don''t know its exact function yet, but we found zombies that have evolved these crystal nuclei have started developing superpowers. So I thought, there must be some kind of energy in the zombie crystal nuclei."


    I''m Not A Zombie sent a depressed emoji. Xiayue could only mourn silently for her for a few seconds.


    Then she sent her a coconut to cheer her up.


    I''m Not A Zombie quickly became energetic again, and took a big sip of coconut juice. "Zombies will probably keep evolving, just like human espers. The higher the level, the more refined the crystal nucleus energy. You wait for me to stock up on crystal nuclei for you. But don''t forget me when you contact other dimensions and get good stuff in the future."


    Vintage Little Rich Girl: "Of course, with our rtionship, you''re like my sister. I''ll make sure you get whatever I have in the future."


    Xiayue suddenly thought, with therge number of upgradable crystal nuclei now avable in the post-apocalyptic dimension, couldn''t it be considered to have evolved into an advanced dimension?


    After all, when she first added it, there were no crystal nuclei there yet. It seemed low-level dimensions also had a chance to evolve into advanced dimensions, only the probability was very low. And the process of evolution...


    Thinking of the terror and dangers of having to go through the post-apocalyptic zombie world, Xiayue couldn''t help but shiver.


    She was also lucky that the dimensional trading device I''m Not A Zombie got was intact and undamaged. Otherwise she wouldn''t have gotten the crystal nucleus so easily.


    To put it bluntly, she needed her own trading device to connect to other dimensions to get better items, while she needed the crystal nuclei from I''m Not A Zombie to search for dimensions. The two were mutually beneficial.


    After chatting for a while longer, when Xiayue came out of the space, it was already past 2 o''clock.


    An Zhiang was in the yard and smiled when he saw here out. "Little sister, you''re awake? Grandma said you were sleeping so I didn''t go call you."


    Xiayue was very happy. Speak of the devil. "Fourth brother, are you free this afternoon?"


    An Zhiang: "Not busy at all. I went to sign up for the army recruitment quota at noon. I''ll be leaving in a few days. Little sister, are you going out? Where do you want to go, fourth brother will take you there."


    So Xiayue told An Zhiang about finding a job at the restaurant. She asked him to take her to see An Jingzhi.


    When An Zhiang suddenly heard that Xiayue was going to be an apprentice at a restaurant, his first reaction was, "Little sister, are you short on money? If you need money, fourth brother will find a way to help you. Being an apprentice at a restaurant is too tiring. After fourth brother joins the army, I''ll have an allowance. I''ll support you in the future."


    "Fourth brother, you can''t support me for the rest of my life." Xiayueughed. Her heart still felt warm though. "I don''tck money. I just want to find something to do for myself. After all, I''m grown up now. I can''t just stay home all the time, right?"


    "But you don''t have to be an apprentice at a restaurant! Being someone''s apprentice is so tiring, with smoke and fire everywhere." Apprenticeships were not easy in this era. You really had to treat your master like your own father, do all the dirty and tiring work, and give your master filial gifts of money. And even then you might not necessarily learn the skills.


    After all, the saying "teaching an apprentice only to starve the master" was no joke.

 Chapter 47: Back to An Lok Village

    <h4>Chapter 47</h4>


    ��An ZhiAng, I��m different from you all. I never went to school. It��s already good fortune if I can find a job. I like cooking. Life is so long, I have to find something I like doing, plus I don��t know what else I can do.��


    Knowing Xia''s calm tone made An ZhiAng very ufortable.


    His sister should have been doted on at home, not knowing the meaning of worries every day.


    But now, she hadn''t even been to school, only able to go to literacy sses to learn words.


    "If you want to work, then go work. But remember Know Xia, you are my An ZhiAng''s sister. No matter what time, you have people to rely on. If you get tired and don''t want to work anymore, or if you''ve been wronged, be sure to tell your brother. I''ll protect you forever."


    "Fourth brother, you��re so nice." Know Xia never knew she could be so emotional.


    The speed of the bicycle was several times that of her legs. Soon they arrived at the school.


    An ZhiAng had just graduated at the end ofst year. As soon as he got to the gate, there were still friends he recognized.


    He took Know Xia in and smoothly found the principal''s office.


    An JingZhi was drinking tea inside. Seeing theme in, he hurriedly put down the big teapot in his hand. "Why are you two here?"


    "Know Xia has something to discuss with you," An ZhiAng said, and repeated Know Xia''s intention to work.


    An JingZhi was not as simple as An ZhiAng. Although it was just an apprentice at a restaurant, it wouldn��t be easy to find the job without connections and money.


    There were also questions about the restaurant''s exact location, and who her master would be. He asked them one by one.


    Know Xia knew she couldn''t hide it, so she told the truth.


    She only said that Teacher Zhao from the literacy ss knew she was looking for a job and introduced it to her, regarding how she got the job.


    An JingZhi didn''t know Zhao JingYun, but as soon as Zhao JingYun��s Liang ZhiWei was mentioned, he knew.


    But for people like Liang ZhiWei, they had always kept their distance. Now his daughter was involved with him, and he felt a little ufortable.


    But it seemed he couldn''t find the words to me Know Xia either.


    He already felt guilty about this daughter in the first ce, plus the fact that she moved out.


    He had originally thought that when he had time in a few days, he would go to help her with the household registration issue, and solve the work problem together. But he didn''t expect the girl to be so impatient to figure it out herself.


    An JingZhi couldn''t help but wonder, what was Liang ZhiWei''s purpose in arranging work for Know Xia?


    A person like him would never do something for nothing. Simply giving someone a job because his wife liked her, he didn''t think it credible no matter how he thought about it.


    An JingZhi had also seen Lin Haozhi in the past two days, and asked him some questions about the family. Then he knew his father Lin Zheng was the chef at the state-run Ping''an Road Restaurant.


    Know Xia happened to worship Lin Zheng as her master. Wasn''t all this a bit too coincidental?


    An JingZhi frowned tightly, silent for a long time.


    Know Xia was uneasy, waiting patiently with a guilty conscience. An ZhiAng was impatient. "Dad, what are you thinking? Know Xia needs to transfer her household registration now. Can it be done or not?"


    Only then was An JingZhi called back to his senses by him. He hurriedly nodded, "Of course it can be done, but about Lin Zheng being Lin Haozhi��s father, and MeiYun already married Lin Haozhi, do you know, Know Xia?"


    Know Xia had originally wanted to say she didn''t know, but after thinking about it, the two families were inws. If Lin Zheng happened to discuss this matter with An JingZhi in the future, wouldn''t she be exposed?


    After deliberating, she said, "I know. But I��m only there to learn culinary skills. Master said he won''t interfere in the affairs of the younger generation. I won''t deny everyone around An MeiYun just because I don''t like her."


    "That''s fine then." An JingZhi didn''t have time to spare in the afternoon, but he also wanted to train An ZhiAng��s ability to handle matters. So he let An ZhiAng take Know Xia to Anle Vige.


    When leaving, An ZhiAng insisted on taking five dors.


    She still owed Zhou ZhiZhi a dress. Although Zhou Nan had bought onest time, she didn''t want to make a special trip back to exin why she went to the countryside.


    Know Xia picked a rtively vintage long-sleeved floral shirt from her space, and selected a suitable pair of ck pants. She secretly put them in the sling bag she carried.


    On the way to the station, An ZhiAng was still imparting experience to Know Xia. "Anyway, Dad must have no shortage of money. Grandpa and Grandma also have money. Know Xia is a girl and the youngest in our family. Don''t be like second brother and care about face. If youck money, just ask them. Never be too shy."


    He wanted to say An MeiYun would never stand on ceremony with the family. Especially this time, with the marriage, she certainly didn''tck help from mother to prepare things.


    But he was afraid to mention her and ruin Know Xia''s good mood, so he didn''t say it.


    Know Xia just nodded calmly, but she would never ask them for money.


    That she didn''tck money was one reason. Although she had returned to the An family, calling them father and mother, she could feel that the affection between them was still separated by ayer of obstacles, not as intimate as they showed.


    Maybe because she didn''t grow up with them since childhood, she couldn''t let loose in front of them either.


    She guessed this was because the older generation valued blood ties more, and also part was on that young aunt who passed away prematurely.


    The olddy made up for her daughter''s regret on her. So in all aspects, she had always taken very thoughtful care of her.


    But no matter who this feeling was directed at, there was no denying that the beneficiary was Know Xia. She also enjoyed and cherished this affection she had never received from anyone else.


    The same journey asst time, taking the bus and buying tickets, getting off and riding for a long time.


    Because it was alreadyte, they didn''t go to Zhou Vige first, but directly to Anle Vige.


    The vige chief of Anle Vige happened to be home. Seeing Know Xia again, the vige chief, who already knew the truth, was full ofment.


    The Gao family were people of Anle Vige after all. Even if he wasn''t involved in the baby swap, it happening in the vige under his jurisdiction, he couldn''t shirk responsibility.


    During this time, just the self-criticism meetings, he had been the main character several times. He didn''t want to enjoy the honor for the rest of his life.


    There was no trouble at all. The vige chief simply gave her a certificate and personally took her to get the team''s stamp.


    Know Xia also asked the vige chief about the recent situation of the Gao siblings. She learned that although they had temporarily lost their parents and were still often criticized and educated in the vige, and Gao Dalin��s marriage had fallen through, the siblings didn��t seem to have suffered any substantial harm, at most bearing the impact of some rumors.

 Chapter 48: The Way It Is

    <h4>Chapter 48</h4>


    Standing on the small road not far from the Gao family, Zhixia thought back to her past miseriespared to the present, and she was filled withplex emotions.


    "Fourth Brother, I want to go to the Gao house to take a look. Wait for me here at the doorter, okay?"


    "What is there to see in that ce?" An ZhiAng didn''t understand why Zhixia wanted to go, and clearly didn''t agree with her request.


    But seeing the mncholy look in Zhixia''s eyes, he thought that they should go take a look after all, so that the people who had abused his sister could see that his Zhixia was no longer the little Gao Cao whom they could bully, but An Zhixia whom they could no longer reach.


    "If you want to go see, then go see. But I have to go with you. With your little arms and legs, what if someone bullies you when I''m not there?" This was the most he would concede. If someone dared to beat his sister with him by her side, An ZhiAng would have lived all these years in vain.


    Zhixia could only smile helplessly at this. "Alright, alright, everything as Fourth Brother says."


    Zhixia walked towards the Gao house, with An ZhiAng following behind her.


    In fact, soon after Zhixia had returned, the busybodies in the vige had already gone to inform Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister.


    Thinking back on their past bullying of Zhixia, they knew very well, and didn''t dare to arrogantly walk up relying on their status as older siblings. Instead, they obediently locked themselves inside the house.


    Gao Second Sister still remembered the words of the group who hade to smash up their housest time as they left, telling them to behave themselves in the future, or they would end up like their parents.


    Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister didn''t dare to leave the yard, afraid that Zhixia woulde to make trouble.


    At this moment, the front gate was knocked on loudly.


    Gao Second Sister''s heart instantly tensed up.


    Among them all, she had bullied Zhixia the most viciously, especially after finding out that Zhixia was not a blood rtive, and looked just like her birth mother.


    She didn''t dare to openly make a move, afraid of causing a scandal that would ruin her own reputation. And her covert attempts had failed several times. After hearing that Mother wanted to sell Zhixia off to get money for Big Brother to take a wife, she reluctantly gave up.


    "Who is it?" Gao Dalin asked in a trembling voice.


    Compared to Gao Second Sister''s deliberate persecution of Zhixia, he wasn''t much better himself.


    Unlike Gao Second Sister, he had grown into an adult man, and understood many more things, especially after finding out that Zhixia was not a blood rtive. This gave rise to some unsavory ideas.


    It wasn''t pure affection, just a man''s curiosity and desire towards a woman.


    Unfortunately, whenever he made a move, the girl screamed and shouted. Even threats and beatings didn''t work. After finding outter that she was to be sold off, he still felt regret that he hadn''t seeded.


    "It''s me, Big Brother, Second Sister. I''vee to see you," Zhixia''s voice was still steady. No one could detect that this was a girl who had once suffered persecution at their hands.


    "Father and Mother have already been arrested. We don''t owe you anything. Why have youe back? Hurry and leave! This isn''t your home anymore. Haven''t you already found your birth parents?" Gao Second Sister''s voice trembled as if she would cry at any moment. All the arrogance from before was gone, leaving only fear.


    She would never forget the day Li Xiu had her pubic hair shaved off, and Gao Dazhuang had been pped dozens of times, his face swollen beyond recognition, the skin ready to split open.


    That day, their whole family had been put on disy like monkeys, bing theughingstock of dozens of viges around.


    Even now, the siblings didn''t dare to leave the house, and even when going out to work, they couldn''t avoid being surrounded and pointed at.


    She was afraid, truly afraid.


    She didn''t want to go tobor reform like her parents.


    It was too horrifying!


    Facing Gao Second Sister''s voice that trembled with fear,pared to her ferocious beatings in the past, Zhixia only felt that things really change every thirty years.


    One should not go too far, or they would block their own way back.


    "I''ll give you two choices. Either open the door and let me in, or I''ll break the door down to get in." Zhixia helpfully reminded them, "Don''t doubt my words. If the door really is smashed open, you probably won''t even have a ce to live anymore, with the wind blowing through."


    After all, with the shameful things her parents had done, there were people in the vige who could make doors, but they might not be willing to make one for them.


    What Gao''s parents had done was not just exchanging her, but also taking advantage of their position to secretly hoard gold and silver back then.


    It was said that during thend reform campaigns, Gao Dazhuang had shouted the loudest.


    And now...the Gao family probably couldn''t even afford to pay for a new door.


    Gao Dalin weighed things up, and pushed Gao Second Sister, "Second sister, go open the door. Otherwise if she really smashes the door, our family won''t even have a front gate in the future. We''ll probably be bullied even more."


    "You''re my older brother, why don''t you go?" Gao Second Sisterined unwillingly.


    Gao Dalin was so angry he raised his hand, "It''s because I''m your older brother that you have to listen to me. Are you going or not?"


    "Fine, fine, I''m going, is that ok?" Gao Second Sister stamped her foot in anger. She really didn''t understand why every mess got dumped on her.


    It wasn''t her that her parents had swapped their child for. She hadn''t gained any benefits either. If you really wanted to count it out, it should be her good little sister An MeiYun who came back to suffer this misfortune. After all, it was for her happiness that her parents had made the switch in the first ce. So now they had ended up in this state.


    Yet the other girl was living a carefree life,pletely unaffected. While look at her - people were shouting for a beating if she so much as stepped out the door.


    In just one month since her parents had been taken away, all the gold and silver that had been found and taken away along with the things hidden by her parents, people kepting to the house pretending to search, taking away anything decent left. Now all that was left in the kitchen were a few chipped bowls that no one wanted.


    Gao Second Sister first opened the door a crack. Because she already knew that An Zhixia had note back alone, but had brought her own elder brother too.


    After looking through the crack and seeing that the people outside didn''t look fierce, seeming to have no intention of harming her, she finally pushed the door wide open. She gave an awkwardugh, "Little Cao, you...you''vee back? Come in, quick."


    But Zhixia was in no hurry to go inside. Instead, she looked back at An ZhiAng, "Fourth Brother, I just have a few words I want to say to them. With you here watching the door, I believe they won''t dare bully me. Just wait here for me for a bit, okay?"


    An ZhiAng didn''t understand why Zhixia insisted on not letting him go with her. It would clearly be safest with him by her side, and she could also take the chance to show off her power in front of him.


    But he didn''t realize that it was precisely because she cared that Zhixia didn''t want to reveal her sinister side in front of him.

 Chapter 49: Blatant provocations

    <h4>Chapter 49</h4>


    "An ZhiAng..."


    Seeing that An ZhiAng was not speaking, ZhiXia called out to him again, her tone containing a hint of coquetry.


    An ZhiAng helplessly sighed, "Alright, I''ll do as you say. I''ll just stay here and won''t go anywhere. If they dare bully you, just yell loudly and your fourth brother wille crashing in immediately. Your fourth brother has trained for this and can easily handle three to five burly men..."


    Although there was some exaggeration in these words, An ZhiAng spoke forcefully, not letting anyone see through his boastful words.


    An ZhiAng also nced threateningly at Gao Second Sister, causing her heart to tremble.


    "I won''t bully little Grass," she now only yearned that as long as she didn''t bully herself, everything would be fine.


    Of course, after hearing that An ZhiAng would not being in, she also secretly breathed a sigh of relief.


    Little Grass had always been timid since she was young. Even with someone backing her up, she probably wouldn''t dare do anything to them alone.


    Gao Second Sister could also clearly see the situation. Things had reached this point, she would not foolishly continue to bully ZhiXia, as that would only draw more resentment.


    "What little Grass, my sister is now called ZhiXia, An ZhiXia, got it?" Hearing the two words ''little grass'', An ZhiAng thought of the grievances his little sister had suffered and felt upset.


    "I understand, it''s ZhiXia, ZhiXia." Finding herself at a disadvantage, Gao Second Sister naturally did not dare to refute.


    As her footsteps entered the door, ZhiXia nced indifferently at Gao Second Sister, "Second sister, close the door first. I have a few words I want to say to you and big brother."


    Hearing ZhiXia was still willing to call her second sister, Gao Second Sister''s gaze flickered. She closed the door,pletely blocking An ZhiAng''s line of sight.


    After walking into the room, Gao Second Sister asked, "ZhiXia, you came back this time to..."


    "I came back to take care of some things. You should all know that my household registration has been moved to the city. From now on I''m considered a city person too." ZhiXia smiled, her burning gaze fixed on Gao Second Sister, "Big brother and second sister...how have you been recently?"


    The gloating in her eyes made Gao Dalin both ashamed and angry. "How we''ve been, don''t you know better than anyone? High little Grass, mom and dad raised you for so many years. Even if they didn''t give you a life of luxury, at least they didn''t let you starve to death right? And now you''ve brought our family to this state. Has your conscience been eaten by dogs?"


    Gao Second Sister angrily tugged on him. She apologized to ZhiXia, "Don''t listen to big brother''s nonsense ZhiXia. He''s just in a bad mood after calling off his engagement. Please don''t me us!"


    This idiot, can''t he see what the situation is? Is now the time to lecture about conscience?


    If it were her, and someone had swapped her excellent background and made her suffer before selling her off, she would have wished ruin upon that person''s family too.


    It had to be said, Gao Second Sister was smarter than Gao Dalin.


    "Big brother''s words are unreasonable. It''s not my fault the Gao family has be like this. After all, I''m still the victim here, aren''t I?" ZhiXia asked them, "If you want to me someone, shouldn''t you me the person who gained benefits but did not care about you at all? After all, the reason you''ve fallen to this state is so that someone else could live a good life."


    This aligned perfectly with what Gao Second Sister was thinking. She knew ZhiXia''s purpose, but still shamedly felt moved.


    That''s right, they didn''t dare cling to An ZhiXia because they knew An''s family would definitely not let them off. They wished they could be as inconspicuous as possible under the An family''s watch.


    But An MeiYun was different.


    She was responsible for arge part of the family''s current state. And Gao Second Sister still held her weaknesses in hand, so she wouldn''t dare not obediently submit.


    To tell the truth, if An MeiYun hadn''t taken the initiative to contact the family, dad and mom wouldn''t have thought to find her so early. Although An ZhiXia was unpopr at home two years ago, her situation was still far from as miserable as the past two years, even reaching the point of wanting her dead.


    All of this was clearly An MeiYun''s idea for An ZhiXia to suffer misfortune.


    Yet now the family was in dire straits while she remained unscathed, still enjoying the An family''s doting. It was truly too unfair.


    Seeing through ZhiXia''s aim, Gao Second Sister also understood she wanted to incite her to fight against An MeiYun, and so she temporarily didn''t fear retaliation from her.


    Moreover, she seemed to have ideas for negotiating terms.


    "Little sister, I never knew you were this clever before." Gao Second Sister smiled gently, the corners of her lips curving up, "Using us to deal with An MeiYun is not out of the question, but to make a horse run, you still have to feed it some grass first, right?"


    ZhiXia would not fall for her tricks. "I didn''t say to use you to deal with An MeiYun. I just reminded you to find the right person if you want to obtain actual benefits. I''ve said my piece, whether you go or not is your business."


    She nced around the bare Gao house. Even the tables, chairs, benches, and boards were gone. The only thing left in the room was the three-legged stool with a broken leg.


    "Tsk, it seems big brother''s and second sister''s days have been rather difficult. But this way...I can rest assured!"


    ZhiXia had a leisurely expression,zily showing her schadenfreude.


    In the past, if Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister were even a little unhappy, they would haveid hands on her already. But now they could only resent her in their hearts, not even daring to show dissatisfaction on their faces before ZhiXia.


    In just over a month, the gaunt sallow girl had blossomed. The simple shirt and pants could not conceal her transcendent temperament. Her curved brows and eyes added some soft charm.


    Yet her words remained so annoying. Brazenly provocative, yet leaving them helpless.


    The moment ZhiXia opened the door, An ZhiAng who was eavesdropping outside stumbled and nearly fell to the ground.


    Looking up to see his little sister''s teasing expression, even someone with skin as thick as An ZhiAng''s face reddened a little.


    He smacked his hands and chuckled twice, concealing his embarrassment. "Little sister, you''re done talking to them? Can we leave now?"


    He had wanted to listen in on their conversation but not only did he not hear a word, he got caught red-handed. How embarrassing!


    ZhiXia knew he must be very awkward but did not expose him. "We''re done. Let''s go to grandma''s house now."


    Inside the house, Gao Second Sister watched that merciless back view withplicated emotions.


    She was all too familiar with the past High little Grass, yet now it was truly hard to believe that the once inconspicuous little Grass could be so dazzling after just a short month.


    Not only her looks, even the temperament of her entire being had undergone an earth-shattering change.

 Chapter 50: What I Think is wrong

    <h4>Chapter 50</h4>


    "She really came up with a good idea, pitting us against each other with just a few words," Gao Dalin said indignantly as he red at Gao Second Sister. "Second sister, you can''t be falling for her trap, can you?"


    Gao Second Sister looked up with a gaze filled with resentment and unwillingness. "Our family has already fallen to this point. An MeiYun is still livingfortably as a young miss. I don''t believe she doesn''t know about our situation now. Big brother, can you really just ept this?"


    "Of course I''m not willing to ept it, but now that it''se out that San is not a biological child, she''s probably struggling to protect herself. How could she have the ability to help us?" Gao Dalin''s brows furrowed as he spoke dejectedly.


    He didn''t feel sorry for An MeiYun at all. He was just afraid that if An MeiYun was also abandoned by the An family, they would truly have no one left to rely on.


    "That''s not necessarily true," Gao Second Sister, who had inherited some wit from their father Gao Dazhuang, refuted. "If she was really struggling, this wretch wouldn''t havee looking for us. The fact that she wants us to be a burden on An MeiYun can only mean one thing��in the struggle between those two, An MeiYun definitely has the upper hand."


    "What''s more, it''s not necessarily harmful to her if we go. We could ask her to find us jobs and get urban residency permits in the city. We''re blood siblings after all. Now that our parents have suffered misfortune, at least the three of us together can help each other out."


    When it came down to it, she was still selfish.


    She knew full well that going would only cause trouble for An MeiYun, but for her own benefit, what did someone else''s troubles matter?


    Not to mention, the family had fallen to this point precisely because of trying to give An MeiYun a good life.


    She had achieved sess by stepping on her parents'' backs, so helping out her siblings now was only right.


    Gao Dalin seemed to be persuading her, but in truth, how much real feeling could he have for a sister he hadn''t even seen a few times? He was just afraid of bringing trouble on himself.


    But when real benefits wereid out before him, what were sibling bonds or parental bondspared to one''s own interests?


    All along the road into Zhou Vige people kept greeting An ZhiAng, clearly showing what a big shot he was in the vige.


    But when they saw Zhou Zhi Zhi, they couldn''t help whispering about her origins, mostly saying she had a bitter fate, but fortunately in the end the unscrupulous Gaos got their retribution.


    The vige children were mostly enthusiastic. Those who recognized them had already gone to report to the Zhou family.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi came out to meet them from far away, holding her 4-year-old niece Xiangxiang and 1-year-old nephew Huzi. "ZhiAng, Zhi Zhi, why are youing over sote in the afternoon?" She looked up at the darkening sky.


    "We''vee to transfer Zhi Zhi''s residency registration. We''re also dropping by to see Granny. Is everyone home?" An ZhiAng asked while taking the little tiger Huzi into his arms to y with.


    "They''re all working in the fields. I had Yuanyuan go let them know." Zhou Zhi Zhi said as she weed them in. "Let''s go wait at home first."


    It was just after the autumn harvest, and they were busy tidying up the fields to nt again next season, so they were very busy this time of year.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi and Zhou Yuanyuan weren''t working in the fields because girls had to be well cared for when they got older in order to find a good family to marry into. But household chores were still left to the two of them.


    When they arrived at the Zhou home, Zhou Zhi Zhi busied herself pouring water for them, adding some white sugar that they didn''t usually indulge in, clearly indicating the level of wee.


    It was only natural. Ever since Zhou Nan had married into the city, she had been ssified as an enviable city person, and whenever her children came back to the Zhou home they were warmly received by the whole family.


    Even the two aunts in the family felt this was only right.


    Xiangxiang and Huzi were the children of oldest cousin Zhou Jianwen. The one-year-old boy had just started learning to walk, and kept wanting to get down despite his unsteadiness, which made him quite a handful.


    With An ZhiAng ying with him now, Zhou Zhi Zhi felt more rxed.


    Zhi Zhi still felt very kindly toward this cousin, and pulled Zhou Zhi Zhi along to go see her room.


    The few days she had stayed here she wasn''t too familiar with the ce, and Zhou Zhi Zhi had taken care of her, so she felt the closest to this cousin emotionally.


    As soon as they entered the room, Zhou Zhi Zhi looked Zhi Zhi up and down with amazement and delight. "Zhi Zhi, you''ve changed so much in this time, I wouldn''t have recognized you if you hadn''te with ZhiAng! Just think, when you first found our home a month ago, your hair was a tangled mess and your face was covered in blood. The clothes on your body could barely be called clothes��you looked no different from a wandering beggar! But in this short time you''ve be so pretty, and your face has filled out. You''re not just skin and bones anymore."


    "Now that I can eat my fill at home, I''ve put on some weight," Zhi Zhi said as she opened up her shoulder bag and took out the clothes, handing them to Zhou Zhi Zhi. "Sister Zhi Zhi, I kept wearing the clothes you gave me. These are new clothes I bought for you. Try them quickly and see if they fit."


    Zhou Zhi Zhi was first surprised, then moved. Touching the soft fabric of the clothes in her hands, she could tell they were quality material, clearly factory-made goods. And judging by the workmanship, they were bought, not homemade!


    "Zhi Zhi, those clothes of mine were already half worn out to start with, just something I made myself from not such good material. These clothes can''t have been cheap! I can''t ept them. You should take them back and wear them yourself. And Granny already said she''d make me a new cotton-padded jacket for winter, so I won''t becking either." Zhou Zhi Zhi refused, not daring to ept.


    In the past when Aunt Zhou Nan came back she would bring hand-me-down old clothes to share with them, and it was rare to get new clothes. In all these years she could remember Granny making two new outfits for herself at most.


    No girl''s heart failed to be moved by new clothes, but to just take them for herself, she also felt uneasy.


    "Sister Zhi Zhi, I bought these clothes in your size originally. Even if you don''t want them, they won''t look good on me if I try to wear them." Zhi Zhi said.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi wanted to refuse further, but Zhi Zhi firmly stuffed them into the closet, leaving no room for further rejection, as that would hurt their rtionship.


    "Zhi Zhi, Granny already said she''d make me a padded jacket for winter. If I take all the new clothes for myself, I''ll feel bad for my sister-inw and Yuanyuan. Their sizes are about the same as mine. Why don''t we split this outfit between the two of them? What do you think?" After all, they were a gift from Zhi Zhi, so Zhou Zhi Zhi didn''t feel right deciding on her own.


    But to monopolize all the new clothes herself, she was also worried it would make her sister-inw and cousin unhappy.


    Only then did Zhi Zhi realize she had been inconsiderate.


    It wasn''t that she was petty. It was just natural for women''s minds to be more sensitive. Even though Zhou Zhi Zhi had given her clothes, sister-inw Lin Caixia and cousin Zhou Yuanyuan had treated her well during those days at the Zhou home.


    Yet she had only given new clothes to her cousin. While her intention had been to repay her, the other two would likely feel slights.


    After all, this one outfit was worth more than the several Zhou Zhi Zhi had given herbined.

 Chapter 51: The result of too much greed is that nothing falls.

    <h4>Chapter 51</h4>


    "Zhi Zhi sister, I also prepared gifts for sister-inw and Yuan Yuan. I was originally thinking of giving it to them after they came back, you''re too impatient." Zhi Xia said while simultaneously looking for the clothes in her space.


    Fortunately, she remembered which box had the vintage clothes when she took clothes for Zhou Zhi Zhi earlier, so it was easy to find them.


    Unlike the mall clothes sent by the zombies that were mostly fashion styles, the supplies worth millions specially prepared by the breeding tycoons were more characteristic of this era.


    The pants were all straight ck pants. Since it was a bit cool in the morning now, she chose long-sleeved tops, just right to wear now.


    Taking advantage of the concealment of the sling bag, she took out two sets of clothes. "I watched as they were bought, I don''t know if they will like them."


    As for the size issue, women of this era can almost all do some sewing work. Even if they buy it themselves from the mall, it is impossible to buy a perfectly suitable size. It ismon to buy something not quite right and then alter it themselves, so there is no need to worry about that.


    Three sets of clothes at once, it must have cost a lot, making Zhou Zhi Zhi feel it was too extravagant.


    "Zhi Xia, you...you are too polite, how can we ept this?"


    "Zhi Zhi sister, I didn''t feel bad at all when I came to trouble you guys. And now you are so polite with me, could it be you don''t want me as a little sister?" Zhi Xia deliberately pouted, "And if you really feel bad, then be extra nice to me in the future. You also know I just got home. Although my brothers are very good, after all boys and girls are different. You are my cousins, how is that any different from real sisters?"


    This was Zhi Xia''s true thoughts.


    She would resent Zhou Nan and An Jing Zhi for not being affectionate enough, because they were her biological parents. Between parents and children, there is an inseparable responsibility, no matter if it is from parents to children or children to parents.


    The Zhou family was different. There was no responsibility between them.


    People rely on each other. When the other party was willing to show kindness to her, she did not want to push that kindness away either.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi was very touched. "Zhi Xia, as long as you are willing, from now on I will be your sister, and you will also be my sister, the same as Yuan Yuan."


    Zhou Yuan Yuan was the daughter of the young master''s family, one year younger than them, also 17 this year.


    There were sounds of talkinging from the yard, it was Granny Zhouing back.


    The others had note back because it was collective work. It was not possible for the whole family to take time off just because they had guests at home.


    When Zhi Xia went out, Granny Zhou was saying to An Zhi Ang, "Don''t go back tonight, eat here and sleep one night, y for a day tomorrow then go back?"


    An Zhi Ang quickly declined, "Granny, normally I would definitely agree, but not today. Zhi Xia''s matter cannot be dyed. We have to hurry back and get things done, so that we can rest assured. Otherwise it''s easy to have nightmares."


    Granny Zhou nodded in agreement, "That makes sense too. Since this is the case, granny won''t keep you for dinner. Don''t me granny for not letting you eat. With just you siblings walking at night, you''d better leave early rather thante."


    An Zhi Ang joked, "Don''t worry about old age. I didn''t n on eating anyway. I just felt that since I came all this way, I should at leaste see you right? Otherwise if you hear from others tomorrow that I came but didn''t even enter your house, who knows, you might even me me for it."


    "Just you and your sweet talk, when has granny ever med you?" Granny Zhou scolded him jokingly, then turned and went into the room, "Wait here for now. There''s nothing good at home. I dried some vegetables these days, and also pickled some salted vegetables. Granny made an extra pot of fermented beans for you to bring back this year. Tell your mom not to forget to sun them in the yard. They were just made a few days ago and not fully dried yet."


    An Zhi Ang grinned, "How can I ept that? I didn''t even bring anything this trip, yet I''m taking back so much, wouldn''t that be taking too much advantage?"


    "You just be smug about it." Granny Zhou was busy packing things, while An Zhi Ang was ying with the kids in the yard.


    Zhou Xiangxiang and Zhou Huzi were both eating candy, probably given by An Zhi Ang. Especially Huzi, with sticky candy all over his chin.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi went to Granny Zhou and they whispered to each other very closely, probably telling Granny Zhou about the clothes Zhi Xia gave them.


    Zhi Xia saw that Granny Zhou had taken out the dried vegetable bags to pack up, but then opened them again and took out a few more handfuls of dried green beans.


    The Zhou and An families had a huge gap between them over the years, but were able to get along so harmoniously because the Zhou family understood the boundaries in their hearts.


    There was nothing good in the countryside, but they nevercked giving dried and pickled vegetables to Zhou Nan each year. And even though they knew the An family was better off, they never took the initiative to ask for anything.


    Zhi Xia felt that both her grandmother and granny were very wise women.


    That''s why Zhou Nan lived such a happy life.


    Probably the only misfortune in her life was having her child switched at birth. Even now that the truth was revealed, they could not return the children to their original families. Instead, she wavered between her biological and adopted daughter.


    Just as the elders said, life is never perfect. If one is too greedy, the oue is that nothing can be obtained.


    Zhi Xia''s feelings for her biological mother went from expectation at the beginning to disappointment now. And if An Mei Yun had a shred of gratitude for their upbringing, she would not have killed off the entire An family in the previous life, after Zhi Xia had already died.


    She still remembered An Mei Yun''s original words when Zhou Nan was on her deathbed. She said your love for me was only because An Mei Xia had already died, died without even a body left, eaten clean by wild beasts in the mountains. If she were alive, you would only abandon me over and over again, watching me die tragically, and only saying in the end that it was self-inflicted.


    Because in that life where An Mei Yun did not transmigrate, due to her own misdeeds, everyone became disappointed in her, and she eventually died miserably and alone in a rented room.


    So after rebirth, she hated everyone, feeling that it was others turning a blind eye and being ruthless that led to her miserable death.


    She didn''t know much about things in that life, but asionally heard An Mei Yun mention it.


    She would not judge right or wrong, but looking at this life, the protection An Jing Zhi and Zhou Nan gave her was enough to show that even after knowing she was not their biological child, An Jing Zhi and Zhou Nan did not immediately be disappointed in her.


    On the contrary, in their initial interactions, their hearts still unconsciously leaned towards her.


    In that life, she was called An Mei Xia. Even after finding her parents, the personality she was raised to have doomed her to a life of obedience and resignation.


    And in An Mei Yun''s eyes, this became her pretense of gentleness and weakness, and her inability to stand up for herself.


    While An Mei Yun looked down on her, she also envied her ability to live a smooth life, and even when encountering misfortune, she could still turn danger into safety.

 Chapter 52: Shame is the mockery of charity.

    <h4>Chapter 52</h4>


    After Granny Zhou had tidied everything up, she filled up a whole bag and ced it on the front rack of her bicycle. The quality of a 28-inch rack was no joke, a bicycle could bear the weight of two to three hundred jin, and it was the main means of transportation at that time.


    An ZhiAng also took out a package of green bean cakes from her satchel and put it on the table inside the house. She went out and said to Granny Zhou, ��Granny, I don��t know what you like to eat either, so I brought you some green bean cakes.��


    She didn''t say that she had made them herself, because the green bean cakes looked very nice, and they definitely didn''t have any at home. Even someone as carefree as An ZhiAng would have realized this.


    Granny Zhou''s health was not as well maintained as the olddy in their house. When she smiled, you could see that most of her teeth were already missing. "You silly girl, why spend so much effort on me? Granny''s teeth are not good now, I can only drink thin congee. Don''t bring these things next time, listen to me. If you have money, buy some tasty food for yourself and take care of your health."


    An ZhiAng quickly smoothed things over and said, "Granny, don''t worry. ZhiXia is notcking money now, she''s even richer than me. My second brother contributed 100 yuan and my third brother 50 yuan for ZhiXia''s pocket money. My mom probably subsidized quite a bit behind the scenes too..."


    An ZhiAng raised his eyebrows at ZhiXia, "Little sister, am I right?"


    ZhiXia just smiled. Zhou ZhiZhi, who was standing next to her, had her mouth half open in surprise.


    She had known since she was little that her aunt''s family was wealthy, but she didn''t expect them to be this wealthy.


    Her cousins weren''t even married yet but could give their little sister tens or hundreds of yuan as pocket money. One could imagine that what they had in hand was even more.


    Both she and her eldest brother were already so old, yet after decades of hard work from her parents, she had overheard them discussing that the family had saved only a dozen or so yuan.


    But it was also normal. Apart from the yields from the fields, the countryside didn''t have any other ie, so it was not easy to earn money. After receiving rations for the year��sbor and deducting the annual expenses, many families did not have enough to cover their costs and still owed money to the vige.


    Even Granny Zhou was shocked by the An family''s wealth.


    But after thinking about it, she felt at peace. There''s a saying that even a rotten boat has three catties worth of nails. The An family was once a prominent rich family in Jincheng, and her son-inw was a high school principal with a good monthly sry. With several children who were all working and not yet married, it was normal for them to have saved up some money.


    She just didn''t expect that they would give so much pocket money to ZhiXia. It seemed that they were quite fond of this girl.


    When leaving, An ZhiAng suddenly remembered, "Oh yes Granny, my dad told me to let you know that An MeiYun is getting married in three days. Come over if you can make time.��


    "Oh, I see." Granny Zhou wondered again, since she hadn''t heard anything about her dating, how did she suddenly decide to get married?


    Perhaps they didn''t have deep feelings from not being together often. After finding out An MeiYun was not her real granddaughter, Granny Zhou''s remaining feelings for her had also faded.


    Plus, whenever An MeiYun came to their house before, she always had a disgusted attitude, and was very arrogant towards Zhou''s children. Granny Zhou didn''t get angry back then for her daughter��s sake, but now, she just felt more and more annoyed thinking about it.


    "The persimmons on the mountain have also ripened. I was just regretting earlier that time was too tight and I didn''t get to go pick them. It happens that I can go in a couple days and bring back some for you guys..." Granny Zhou chattered on, repeatedly urging them to be careful on the road. She watched their figures disappear before turning back into the house.


    Zhou ZhiZhi took out Zhou Yuanyuan��s clothes from the house and handed them to her. She suddenly remembered, "Granny, could these clothes have been bought by ZhiXia? I felt the fabric, it seems quite nice. With the pocket money her cousins gave her, could she have spent it all on buying clothes?"


    It wasn''t surprising that Zhou ZhiZhi would think this way. Although she had always known her aunt��s family was well-off, her Aunt Zhou was rtively frugal with her own children. For her cousins on the maternal side, it could only be said she treated them decently. But she did subsidize Granny Zhou quite a bit.


    Even so, in the eyes of others, it was still extremely generous.


    Zhou Yuanyuan stroked her new clothes lovingly and pouted, "Do you even need to ask? Of course ZhiXia bought them for me. When has Aunt ever bought us new clothes? At most she would bring back An MeiYun��s hand-me-downs and distribute them to us."


    For them, even An MeiYun''s hand-me-downs were very good. Zhou Yuanyuan had been happy to get hand-me-down clothes in the past, even if the sizes didn''t quite fit she could alter them.


    But An MeiYun''s words were hurtful to their self-esteem, saying that they were rag pickers and only deserved to wear her old clothes.


    Young girls cared a lot about face too. Hearing these words, she didn''t dare tell the adults at home, but remembered it in her heart.


    After that, when Aunt Zhou brought back clothes, she was reluctant to take them, and was criticized by her mother for it.


    Because for them, making a new piece of clothing not only required money, but also fabric tickets. It was not easy to make a new one every three to five years, most were handed down from older to younger siblings until they really couldn''t be worn before ripping them up to patch shoes.


    Granny Zhou didn''t understand the situation. She tapped Zhou Yuanyuan on the forehead, "You silly girl, don''t be too arrogant. Look at the other girls in our vige, whose clothes aren''t covered in patches?"


    "That''s different." What Zhou Yuanyuan cared about was not whether the clothes were new or old, but the contempt from An MeiYun. "Ah, I already told you you wouldn''t understand. I won''t exin it to you. I''m going back to try on my new clothes."


    At the moment she first learned An MeiYun was not a blood rtive, Zhou Yuanyuan admitted she did feel a bit of schadenfreude. Who made her look down on them before?


    Moreover, there was no harm without contrast. Compared to An MeiYun''s arrogance and sharpness, ZhiXia was gentle and generous, and people naturally liked those who were gentle and nice to them. Who would like someone who looked down on them all the time?


    Zhou Yuanyuan thought that even if ZhiXia gave her used clothes in the future, she would definitely not dislike them, because unlike An MeiYun, ZhiXia would not say such contemptuous words.


    Besides, in the countryside, not to mention picking up used clothes, even children''s diapers were reused by others. It was nothing unusual or shameful at all.


    What was shameful was the derisive charity from others.


    It was veryte when An ZhiAng and ZhiXia got off their bikes.


    The early autumn night was chilly. Fortunately, ZhiXia was wearing long sleeves.


    An ZhiAng was wearing short sleeves, but boys had more vigorous internal heat. Coupled with the exercise from biking, he was not cold at all, and his back was even sweating so much that you could see the wet outline of his shirt.


    "Fourth brother, when are you leaving?" Although she knew that once An ZhiAng left this time, he would be embarking on the bright future he deserved, ZhiXia still felt reluctant to part.

 Chapter 53: No Choice

    <h4>Chapter 53</h4>


    The day after An MeiYun''s wedding. An ZhiAng spoke in a muffled voice. It wasn''t because he had any other concerns, but facing this sister whom he had just acknowledged, he truly had many reluctances in his heart. He also worried for her.


    Although his personality was carefree, he was not silly. He could see ZhiXia''s existence at home.


    He did not need to worry about his grandparents, but his parents'' hearts were still half upied by An MeiYun. Plus ZhiXia''s inability to get along with An MeiYun and his two older brothers'' indifferent attitudes. After he left, he was really afraid his sister would have no one to rely on at home.


    But he could not stay either.


    Life at home was too smooth. His father''s and second brother''s jobs were also somewhat sensitive. In the past year, there had been countless disturbances at school, with many students who joined the Red Guards not even attending sses anymore, following others east and west every day, smashing this and crashing that.


    Being at the forefront of this storm, after An MeiYun''s matter of being sent down to the countryside was done, even if her family did not interfere, her inws would surely arrange a job for her.


    But she was still using the An family woman''s name. ZhiXia also had to start working. If he stayed in the city, it would be too conspicuous. This was also why his grandparents insisted that An MeiYun be sent down to the countryside.


    Unexpectedly, she came up with this move before leaving, directly breaking away from the family''s control.


    Compared to being a "sent-down youth" in the countryside, An ZhiAng still preferred going to the army. Which man didn''t harbor a dream of protecting their country?


    "ZhiXia, your fourth brother is about to leave soon. Can you promise me one thing?"


    ZhiXia: "Does fourth brother want me to go back home?"


    "You and I are truly twins. You even know what I''m thinking." An ZhiAngughed in surprise and exined, "Since you want to stay in the city, you''ll inevitably have to interact with our family. Actually Dad and Mom don''t not care about you either, it''s just that after raising An MeiYun for so many years, they still can''t let go, which is also very normal. Let''s give them another chance okay? And second and third brother, those two are the emotionally aloof kind. So if you want to get along with them, you have to be thick-skinned like fourth brother. Go to them when somethinges up, don''t hide things. They will also help."


    If he wasn''t leaving in such a hurry, he wouldn''t urge ZhiXia to return home to bond with their rtives. After all, with him there, he could help shield his sister.


    But he was leaving soon, far from oversight. Unlike big brother who had authority and amanding presence.


    "Fourth brother, don''t worry. Even without you, I won''t let others bully me arbitrarily. Or there''s still grandpa and grandma." ZhiXia didn''t mention going back, but she knew she would eventually return anyway.


    She just didn''t want to go back these few days to see Zhou Nan preparing dowries for An MeiYun. She was afraid she would feel even more upset.


    After An MeiYun married Lin Hao, she would still have to go back and watch, lest An MeiYun make a preemptive move that caught her off guard. That would really be a waste of her rebirth.


    "That''s true. With grandpa and grandma who dote on you, I really shouldn''t worry." An ZhiAng was finally much relieved.


    ZhiXia leaned her cheek against his back and gently said, "Fourth brother isn''t worrying for nothing. I know how nice fourth brother is to me. I really really like fourth brother the most."


    He left the deepest impression in both her lifetimes of memories.


    Even after she died prematurely in her previous life, he still remembered her during that period of time after learning of her existence.


    He said his sister should not have been buried in the deep mountains. If there was an afterlife, he would definitely not let bad people bully her again, and would be a good elder brother to protect her properly.


    An ZhiAng was so happy he forgot his tiredness, and pedaled the bike faster.


    After sending ZhiXia back to grandma''s ce, he exined he woulde over tomorrow to apany her to register her household registration, before leaving.


    Grandma was sitting in the living room, clearly waiting for her.


    There was food left in the pot for her. Aunt Zhou went home at night. Grandma hadn''t learned to cook at her age, yet still clumsily tried to heat up food for her.


    ZhiXia certainly didn''t dare let her do it, quickly telling her to go rest while she handled it herself.


    After eating, she also washed the pots and bowls clean before going to wash up and rest.


    The sky had just brightened when An ZhiAng came over, even having breakfast here.


    After the meal, they bid grandpa and grandma goodbye, then went to register her household registration first, followed by handling the job at the state-owned restaurant, settling the start date for tomorrow.


    When leaving, ZhiXia saw An ZhiAng go to the kitchen and give Chef Lin two packs of top grade cigarettes.


    Although the times were changing and apprenticing was no longer as cumbersome as before, gifts made people happy. Without paying some tuition, how could the master wholeheartedly teach?


    After leaving the state-owned restaurant, An ZhiAng said, "There''s still time. Why don''t I take you to find third brother? He''s at the hospital not far ahead. You can also go learn the way, so it''ll be convenient to find him in the future."


    "Let''s not disturb third brother. He must be very busy at work now. Going over would only interrupt him. And since I''m living so close to him now, maybe he''lle to the restaurant for a meal one day and get a nice surprise when he sees me." ZhiXia said, "I want to quickly learn to ride a bike, or I''ll have to walk to work every day in the future."


    "Alright, let''s go back to grandpa and grandma''s ce. The road in that alley has few people, I can hold the bike steady for you to practice."


    ...


    ZhiXia felt she had always been quite smart. She didn''t have the opportunity to learn things at first. Later during those years as a ghost, she also picked up a lot following others.


    But when it came to riding a bike, it looked so easy when others hopped on and pedaled away, yet she always wobbled left and right uncontrobly.


    An entire half day passed with An ZhiAng panting heavily from exhaustion. He must be resenting in his heart how silly his sister was, unable to even learn this small bicycle.


    ZhiXia also felt rather embarrassed, awkwardly smiling without even daring to look at him.


    An ZhiAng could only pretend to be calm andfort her, "It''s fine. Fourth brother was even clumsier than you when learning back then. It took me several months before finally managing it. Don''t be discouraged. Let''s try again. You''ll definitely get it."


    ZhiXia could only stiffly nod.


    An ZhiAng held the bike seat behind her and signaled for her to pedal forward, "I won''t let go this time. I''ll hold it and run with you. Let''s try cycling ap like this first, see if it works."


    Because An ZhiAng discovered that every time she was about to fall, it happened when he said he was letting go.


    Clearly he wasn''t using much strength to hold it when she rode fine.


    ZhiXia nodded and started concentrating with all her might, thinking to herself that she must not fall down this time.


    Or else she would tire her fourth brother out learning to bike.


    Like before, knowing someone was holding it behind her, ZhiXia rode very steadily.


    An ZhiAng ran behind reminding her, "Ride forward, don''t look back. Fourth brother is holding it for you. Don''t be afraid."


    However, he secretly let go of his hands and watched the figure ahead continue riding smoothly. Only then did he smile.


    Sure enough, it wasn''t that she couldn''t learn it, but rather she was too afraid of falling. So every time he said to let go, she would lose control.

 Chapter 54: Spoiled

    <h4>Chapter 54</h4>


    Zhi Xia rode ahead alone, her nerves highly strung, never looking back.


    Only when she noticed theck of sound behind did she tentatively ask, "Fourth brother, are you tired?"


    Zhi Xia called out several times, but there was no response. Only then did she btedly realize what was happening.


    Her nerves tensed up again, but luckily she did not fall this time, managing to ride steadily.


    But as she turned a corner, some figures suddenly appeared.


    "Be careful..." Zhi Xia cried out in fright, but it was toote to dodge and she collided with them.


    Pei Jing was also surprised. He was walking here with Second Uncle''s family when Zhi Xia suddenly came riding towards them on her bike.


    Zhi Xia quickly tried to brace the falling bike with her feet, but being too short, her foot twisted as it touched the ground, sending piercing pain through her. She felt sure she was about to take a tumble.


    But the next moment, she fell into a warm embrace.


    Zhi Xia''s body fell into Pei Jing''s arms as he caught her. Her bike crashed to the ground with a tter.


    An Zhi Ang rushed over to help Zhi Xia out of Pei Jing''s arms, "Little sister, are you alright? Did you get hurt from the fall?"


    Feeling embarrassed by her own clumsiness, Zhi Xia said, "I''m fine, I just twisted my ankle a bit."


    "Let me take a look," said Pei Jing. Spotting a stone step by a nearby house''s door, he called An Zhi Ang, "Carry her over there to sit down first, I''ll see how badly she''s injured."


    "Alright," An Zhi Ang readily obliged.


    Pei Jing''s Second Uncle Pei Sheng and his wife were there with their eldest daughter Pei Meng. An Zhi Ang asked them, "This is Zhi Xia right?"


    Although their homes were not far apart, Zhi Xia had not yet visited the Pei family, so had not met Pei Sheng and the others.


    An Zhi Ang nodded, "Second Uncle, yes this is Zhi Xia. I was teaching her to ride a bike, she''s not good at it yet, that''s why she bumped into you all. Don''t take offense."


    "That''s fine, we were on our way to see your grandfather anyway," Pei Sheng replied.


    With all eyes on her, Pei Jing held Zhi Xia''s foot in his hand. Given their prior rtionship, she felt a peculiar sensation, both shy and embarrassed.


    "It''s sprained, bear with it for now, I''ll help you back," said Pei Jing.


    No sooner had he finished speaking than he suddenly exerted force on her foot.


    Snap! Searing pain shot up from Zhi Xia''s ankle and she recoiled, a stifled moan escaping her throat.


    "Try moving it, does it feel better?" Pei Jing said, seeing her pained expression.


    The intense pain slowly subsided, leaving just a mild ache. Zhi Xia gingerly moved her ankle and found it much improved.


    "It''s a lot better already, thank you," she smiled gratefully at Pei Jing.


    Pei Jing stood up and told An Zhi Ang, "I remember Uncle An has medicinal wine. Take her back and massage it firmly with the wine. It shouldn''t affect walking tomorrow, but best to rest it today."


    "Got it. Thanks Uncle Pei, please help me get Zhi Xia over, I''ll take her back first." An Zhi Ang righted the fallen bike and straddled it. His long legs allowed him to brace himself on the ground.


    Jiang Su, Pei Sheng''s wife, felt it was inappropriate for the young uncle to be supporting a grown girl, despite the close ties between their families. Though not blood-rted, it still seemed improper.


    She took the initiative to step in, calling her daughter over too. "Let me help Zhi Xia, Meng Meng, don''t just stand there,e help."


    Together they assisted Zhi Xia onto the bike. After Zhi Xia''s thanks, An Zhi Ang took her away.


    Watching their retreating figures, Jiang Su remarked, "She takes after her mother, quite pretty and gentle, good temper too. My nephew from my maternal side is decent enough, I''ll have a chat with her mother another day."


    With a frown, Pei Jing said, "They''re still young, I''m afraid it''s not appropriate."


    Missing his implication, Jiang Su said, "My nephew''s not much older, a nice match for the youngsters. Let them get acquainted first, if suitable they can settle downter, that''s good too."


    Pei Jing''s gaze at Jiang Su made her feel oddly wrong-footed.


    "What is it? My family is poorer than the Ans I know, but not that bad right?" She genuinely liked Zhi Xia and was well-meaning in her intention, unlike if it was An Mei Yun.


    Pei Jing began, "That''s not what I meant, I meant that..."


    But Pei Sheng cut him off, "Now that you mention it, I think my nephew Jian Guo would be quite suitable too. Our families are so close, if the kids got together, we''d be family twice over."


    It was this kind of thinking, along with pressure from Eldest Uncle''s family, that led to his daughter Pei Meng being sent down to the countryside instead of his nephew Pei Jian Guo, as originally nned.


    No wonder his wife and daughter resented him, giving him the cold shoulder.


    Pei Jing smiled mirthlessly, "Even Second Uncle thinks this way, no wonder Eldest Aunt holds that view. But Second Uncle, have you forgotten, it''s exactly because Jian Guo is the sole boy of the third Pei generation that he should take on his responsibilities and protect his younger sisters. Not hide behind them and let them shield him. A man raised this way, how can he uphold the Pei family line?"


    Pei Jing realized on this visit home that the biggest issue was how spoiled Pei Jian Guo was by the family.


    Not quite spoiled rotten, butcking grit as a man.


    Amid heated arguments about being sent down, Pei Jian Guo just stood by watching his parents battle it out, not saying a word.


    Finally, he used his status as the only boy of the young generation to shirk the duty originally meant for him.


    In the early 1970s, while people mouthed slogans about women holding up half the sky and gender equality, the mindset of men superior, women inferior still lingered.


    Pei Sheng and Jiang Su had only daughters. Jiang Su was willing to swallow minor slights, but this concerned their daughter''s future, so she was furious.


    Especially when Eldest Uncle pompously dered that a family''s lineage depends on its sons, implying she was inferior for not having a son, and they would have to rely on nephews in old age.

 Chapter 55: There鈥檚 Nothing to Think About

    <h4>Chapter 55</h4>


    In fact, Pei Sheng was not the kind of man who valued men over women. Otherwise, he would not have only two daughters. Over the years, he and Jiang Su have been fine. The two had never quarreled because of not having a son.


    It was just that some words were hard to ignore when people kept mentioning them. When they were mentioned a lot, even unreasonable things would start to seem reasonable.


    He had thought that not having a son was no big deal. After all, he was not an only child. Even if his family line ended with him, it would only end with him. The Pei family lineage would not be broken.


    But in recent years, his sister-inw''s constant reminders had gradually made him feel inferior. He had naturally taken the path of protecting his nephew, just because the boy was the only male among the younger generation.


    Pei Sheng suddenly realized something. He hurried after Jiang Su without caring about Pei Jing who was walking with him.


    Pei Meng was very tactful and stood still, leaving time for her parents to be alone.


    Pei Sheng nodded approvingly at Pei Meng, then turned to Jiang Su to apologize, "Don''t be angry anymore. Even little Jing has started to reprimand me. I promise you this is thest time. When we get back, let''s move out and live on our own. Can''t we live our own lives from now on?"


    Anyway, there was the eldest brother above, and the third brother below. He was sandwiched in between as the second son. There was nothing he could do anyway.


    Besides, the old master had a caretaker.


    The couple had been harmonious for so many years of marriage. Now that things were said so inly, Jiang Su was no longer angry at him. She just sighed and said, "I know what you''re thinking too, but aren''t you overlooking one issue?"


    "What issue?" Pei Sheng asked somewhat uneasily.


    "It''s true that eldest brother and sister-inw have a son. Given our age, it''s unrealistic to expect another child. But haven''t you forgotten that third brother is still young? He hasn''t even married yet. Yet you keep saying that Jian Guo is the only male child among the younger generation. Isn''t that wishing that third brother won''t be able to have a son in the future either?"


    Jiang Su''s slightly louder words made Pei Sheng suddenly realize.


    That''s right, Pei Jing wasn''t married yet. He would definitely want children in the future.


    He had really been brainwashed by his sister-inw. After listening to her say over and over that Jian Guo was the only boy among the younger generation, he had actually started to believe it was true over time.


    Zhi Xia sat in the living room supported by An Zhi Ang. Sister-inw Zhou made a big fuss, startling Granny Pei and Old Master Pei.


    Soon, Pei Sheng and Pei Jing had all arrived as well.


    Pei Sheng was carrying cans and a can of tea leaves. Granny Pei took them from him and handed them to Sister-inw Zhou.


    Upon learning that Pei Meng was leaving tomorrow, Granny Pei was still surprised and asked, "What is your family thinking? Why let a girl go?"


    The mentality of valuing men over women did not work for Granny Pei.


    Jiang Su was aggrieved, but also understood the principle of not airing dirtyundry. She exined, "Her young uncle in the army introduced her to someone. They''ve been writing letters for half a year and have seen each other''s photos. She''s going this time to see if it''s a good match. If so, they''ll get married and then Meng Meng can follow him into the army."


    Even at a disadvantage, Jiang Su would not take all mistreatment lying down.


    Without a way out, even if the truth was exposed, she would never agree to letting her daughter be sent down to the countryside.


    Fortunately, except for getting rural residency, everything else was arranged. The ce she was being sent down was not far from Pei Jing''s troop, so she could still be looked after.


    Plus she would get married soon, and to a soldier at that. She could get military dependent status and the local authorities wouldn''t refuse to release her.


    Her daughter had at least graduated from high school and would have military family status. With some help from the family after marriage, it wouldn''t be too difficult to transfer her residency back.


    "I see, so that''s how it is." Granny Pei nodded understandingly, then went back into the room and took out twenty dors and some vouchers. "I didn''t get the news beforehand either. Meng Meng is leaving again tomorrow, and with these old arms and legs of mine, I can''t prepare anything in time. Take this money and vouchers and get everything you need yourself. Don''t try to save on things. What if you get there and find you''recking everything? Things will be hard to buy then."


    Pei Meng declined and said there was no need to worry with Pei Jing taking care of her there.


    It was Pei Sheng who said she should take it before Pei Meng epted the money and vouchers.


    Pei Meng hade as a courtesy visit before leaving. With time tight, she didn''t stay long before leaving with her parents.


    Pei Jing was in no hurry to leave. He asked Zhi Xia, "Did you rub medicinal wine on your foot?"


    Granny Pei also said to her, "How could you be so careless? You haven''t learned to ride a bike but still sprained your foot?"


    An Zhi Ang exined at the side, "Actually she learned a long time ago. It''s just that she doesn''t dare ride alone. So every time I let go, she tilts. This time I let go without telling her and she rode quite far without falling."


    "I said I would hold on to help you, but suddenly found no one behind me. Of course I would fall if you suddenly weren''t there when you said you would be." Zhi Xia tattled to Granny Pei.


    Granny Pei was no longer angry. She justughed and teased the young couple.


    An Zhi Ang took the medicinal wine from the shelf to rub on Zhi Xia''s foot.


    But Pei Jing said, "Go to the room to apply it. After rubbing in the wine, lie down and rest directly. It saves moving around."


    Granny Pei said, "Go on then. I''ll leave Zhi Xia to you two. Take good care of her. Little Jing, you''ll eat hereter, right?"


    Surprisingly, Pei Jing did not decline. "Then I''ll impose today."


    "Impose? With all of you here, lively and fun, it makes us happy." Granny Pei said as she went out.


    An Zhi Ang helped Zhi Xia into the room. Pei Jing suddenly added, "I think the bike chain outside seems to have fallen off. Do you want to go put it back on first, so we don''t get dyed using it?"


    "It didn''t fall off. It was fine when I rode back." An Zhi Ang said very certainly.


    Pei Jing just smiled. "It really fell off. Go take a look if you don''t believe me."


    "That would be strange." An Zhi Ang wondered as he went outside. And sure enough, the chain had fallen off.


    In the room, Pei Jing crouched to apply medicine for Zhi Xia, but she dodged him.


    "I can apply it myselfter, no need to trouble Little Uncle Pei." Zhi Xia was clear what had happened between them, but still had to address him as little uncle due to their rtion. She felt rather awkward. "You purposely sent my fourth brother away, right?"


    "Let me help you. If the force is too light, it won''t prate well and the effect will be greatly reduced." Pei Jing took Zhi Xia''s foot in his hand again and carefully started massaging in the wine.


    Zhi Xia could not resist too much either. She asked again, "It''s just applying medicinal wine. There''s no need to purposely send my fourth brother away, right?"


    "I''ll be leaving in a few days." Pei Jing paused his movements for a bit before continuing. "Have you considered it?"


    "Since Little Uncle Pei is leaving, let me wish you a smooth journey in advance. As for me, there''s nothing to consider." Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Jing didn''t speak again. Zhi Xia also gradually rxed. The pain in her foot became more pronounced, mixed with the warmth from the rubbing.


    When An Zhi Ang came back, Pei Jing also put the wine away.


    At dinner, An Zhi Ang talked the most. Zhi Xia was silent with things on her mind. Old Master Pei would ask Pei Jing some questions asionally, which Pei Jing patiently answered.


    It was clear that Old Master Pei was genuinely very satisfied with this younger generation member Pei Jing.

 Chapter 56: The Old Lady Teaches her Daughter-in-law

    <h4>Chapter 56</h4>


    The An family came after dinner, with both An Zhiren and An ZhiXian present, only An MeiYun did note.


    Perhaps after seeing through the dislike of the old master and old madam towards her pretentious attitude, she knew she would not be able to fool them.


    ZhiXia woke up from a nap, her sprained foot was also much better, and she could walk without support.


    An ZhiAng came in with An Zhiren and An ZhiXian. Seeing ZhiXia lying in bed, he first expressed concern, and then brought up the purpose of this trip.


    Naturally it was to persuade her to go back. ZhiXia had already guessed it, so there was nothing surprising.


    Her answer was ambiguous. Everyone in the An family was smart except for the easygoing An ZhiAng. An Zhiren and An ZhiXian understood at once that what ZhiXia wanted was a guarantee, and this guarantee could only be given by her parents.


    However, they had guessed wrong this time. When she first returned, she still had a glimmer of hope for that family, but after some things happened, she saw through it and stopped hoping for it.


    Zhou Nan came in after they left.


    As soon as she entered, seeing ZhiXia''s face that was increasingly simr to hers, Zhou Nan had a moment of disorientation.


    The 18 years of upbringing were certainly important, but the blood ties were not so easy to sever, so Zhou Nan was always so conflicted.


    Sitting by the bed, Zhou Nan sighed, "Mom knows her actions have hurt you, but ZhiXia, she''s getting married the day after tomorrow, and will only be home for less than two days. Your dad and I have already talked to MeiYun beforeing here, she will try toe home as little as possible in the future. Mom is not forcing you, just standing from a mother''s perspective to ask you, let''s go home, okay? Mom and dad will definitely cherish you in the future, you should also...give us a chance!"


    Looking at Zhou Nan''s loving gaze, she also wanted to believe that at this moment, she really meant what she said.


    Unfortunately, people''s minds are inherentlyplicated and fickle. She would feel sorry for herself when seeing her pitiful state, and simrly, if An MeiYun stood in front of her pitifully, she would also feel bad.


    The tragedy of her previous life was ultimately her own experience, while in their eyes, An MeiYun had always been the child who had been with them for eighteen years. Although a little willful, she was by no means a bad child.


    Smiling, ZhiXia did not refuse this time, "Okay, I also hope that mom can remember her promise this time."


    And not likest time, when it was agreed to be 10 days, it was dyed again and again, and now it has already been more than a month.


    "I will, I will." Zhou Nan nodded approvingly, "Then do you have anything to pack up? Let me help you."


    "No need, just a few clothes, just take them out." In recent times, the old madam had added a lot of clothes for her, as well as two winter cotton coats.


    Although ZhiXia said it was unnecessary, Zhou Nan still took action.


    Seeing the clothes in the closet and the brand new thick quilts, Zhou Nan realized that she was indeed a very ipetent mother.


    She had also prepared some at home, but because she had to be busy preparing An MeiYun��s dowry these days, what she prepared for ZhiXia was far from asplete as what the old madam had prepared here.


    At that moment, she felt a little guilty in her heart, and at the same time thought that it was no wonder the child felt ufortable, and they really didn��t do enough.


    She secretly wiped the corners of her eyes and folded all the clothes in the closet neatly.


    The old madam came in from outside with a box and looked at ZhiXia with a smile, "Have the mother and daughter reconciled?"


    "Grandma..." ZhiXia was still thinking about how to tell the old madam that she was going back, after all she was the one who came, and now she was the one leaving, troubling the old madam for so long for no reason.


    Before she could feel embarrassed, the old madam said, "It''s good that you''ve made up, there are no overnight feuds between mother and daughter, it''s fine as long as you talk it out."


    Then, the old madam exhorted Zhou Nan again, "Zhiqing''s mom, I''m also a mother, I know what you''re thinking. In fact, if someonees to tell me now that Jingzhi is not my own, I wouldn''t be able to ept it either. But things are already like this, you still have to make a principle in your heart and distinguish between the important and the trivial. I''m not speaking ill of MeiYun either, you raised her up, so you know best what kind of person she is. She has improved somewhat in the past two years, but think carefully, when did she start to change? Did she really change, or was she just putting on a show for you? You''re already old enough to be a grandmother, there are some things that can''t just be seen with the eyes, you have to feel with your heart..."


    In the past, the old madam would not have said so much to her, in case she annoyed her.


    And this era was different from before. She was no longer the matriarch of a prestigious family. As long as she took good care of the family and the children, it was not so important whether she learned certain things or not.


    But the old madam couldn''t bear to see her own granddaughter being wronged, so she had to give Zhou Nan more advice.


    She was old now and didn''t know how many more years she could live. ZhiXia was still young and had a long life ahead of her, and would still need the care of her parents and brothers in the future.


    She didn''t need to exhort ZhiAng, the twins had an extraordinary bond. That child regarded ZhiXia even more importantly than himself.


    ZhiQing was the most steady, with the demeanor of an eldest brother since childhood. As for Zhiren and ZhiXian, she had also exhorted them earlier.


    After all, they didn''t grow up together, so you couldn''t demand too much affection between them right away. But blood ties couldn''t be severed. When the younger sister was wronged, the brothers shouldn''t pretend not to see it.


    As long as someone was there to gently remind them, the siblings would gradually be close, so she didn''t have to worry too much.


    "Mom is right, I also understand, I will definitely not wrong ZhiXia again in the future." Zhou Nan said awkwardly.


    In fact, after returning from herest time, she had thought about it for a long time and realized that many of the conflicts did seem to be deliberately provoked by MeiYun.


    Her husband also said that no matter who was right or wrong in the past, there was no point in keeping score anymore.


    The two of them could be said to have been kind to MeiYun, and in the future they should indeed take good care of ZhiXia.


    As for whether MeiYun will live well or poorly, it was her own choice, and they couldn''t watch over her for a lifetime either.


    Whether it was their son or daughter, when they grew up and married, their mission would be aplished.


    When it came to dealing with children''s rtionships, even if they couldn''t bepletely fair and just, they shouldn''t always meddle randomly, lest pleasing neither side.


    "It''s good that you can understand. After all, ZhiXia is still young. As her mother, you should still point out and teach her when she does something wrong."


    It had to be said that the old madam knew how to handle things well, scolding with one hand and giving a sweet date with the other, disciplining and still giving Zhou Nan face.


    "Pack the clothes in the box, it will be more convenient to carry." The old madam handed the box to Zhou Nan and said to ZhiXia, "This is the rattan box your dad used when he was young. Don''t look at its age, it''s still in good condition. Come back and stay whenever you miss grandma in the future."


    This was also to remind Zhou Nan not to always make the child ufortable. It wasn''t like ZhiXia had nowhere to go without her.


    "You can figure it out yourself, that''s good. But after all, ZhiXia is still young. As her mother, you should still speak up and teach her when something is done wrongly."


    It had to be said that the old madam knew how to handle things well, scolding with one hand and giving a sweet date with the other, disciplining and still giving Zhou Nan face.


    "Pack the clothes in the box, it will be more convenient to carry." The old madam handed the box to Zhou Nan and said to ZhiXia, "This is the rattan box your dad used when he was young. Don''t look at its age, it''s still in good condition. Come back and stay whenever you miss grandma in the future."


    This was also to remind Zhou Nan not to always make the child ufortable. It wasn''t like ZhiXia had nowhere to go without her.

 Chapter 57: Not So Many ifs Exist

    <h4>Chapter 57</h4>


    When they left, Zhou Nan originally wanted to support Zhi Xia, but she refused.


    Seeing that Zhi Xia was walking steadily, she didn''t insist and just followed behind carrying the suitcase.


    This had topliment Pei Jing - his skills were indeed good. After a night''s sleep, Zhi Xia''s ankle was almostpletely better, and the slight pain when walking could be ignored.


    They had brought some dried vegetables, mushrooms and the like when they came. These were all things Zhou Granny had taken back for them. When they left, the olddy also gave them quite a lot, mostly food and drink.


    An ZhiAng originally wanted to give Zhi Xia a ride, but was robbed by An Zhiren, perhaps influenced by the olddy''s words.


    On the road, Zhou Nan sat in the back and asked An JingZhi, "MeiYun is going out the day after tomorrow. Are mom and dad going?"


    An JingZhi sighed, "I talked to dad about it, but he said he wasn''t feeling well recently, meaning he probably doesn''t want to go. You can''t really me mom and dad for this. After all, their intention was for MeiYun to go to the countryside. As a result, MeiYun secretly went ahead and got a marriage certificate without even discussing it with her family. "


    It was only after knowing An MeiYun had gotten a marriage certificate that An JingZhi found out about this man Lin Hao. He hadn''t heard anything beforehand.


    Speaking of Lin Hao, he didn''t know much about him, but from inquiring around, he was already doing well for his age, working in government institutions at just over 20 years old. His future prospects were limitless.


    "Although MeiYun was somewhat in the wrong, aren''t mom and dad''s opinions of her too extreme? Their own daughter is getting married and they don''t even want to go. How will this make Lin''s family see MeiYun?" Zhou Nan worriedly said, "Mom didn''t even say she wanted to add to MeiYun''s makeup or gifts. I heard from ZhiAng that the Pei Meng girl went over at noon and mom stuffed 20 yuan in her pocket."


    "Don''t make randomparisons," An JingZhi said. "Although Pei Meng doesn''t have our surname, those two sisters have always liked crowding around Old Madam since they were young. Naturally, the feelings are different. As for MeiYun..." Of course An JingZhi knew why the olddy didn''t like MeiYun, but this knot could not be untied by anyone.


    Thinking of his own younger sister who died young, she was only 17 or 18 when she left, the same blossoming age. She loved following behind him like a little duckling.


    Unfortunately, those years could nevere back.


    When he thought about it carefully, Zhi Xia really resembled her aunt.


    Those distinctly ck and white eyes, the asional naivety revealed in her thinking, and the quiet temperament about her, it gave An JingZhi an extra sense of reminiscence.


    Zhou Nan had never seen that little sister. Although she had known of her existence all these years, there was little feeling without having seen her.


    An Zhiren deliberately kept some distance from them. Zhi Xia sat properly in the back, holding tightly onto the back seat, without any physical contact with the front.


    "Did little sister agree toe back so readily because she wants to ruin An MeiYun''s wedding?" This was the question An Zhiren had wanted to ask earlier. Otherwise, apart from this, he couldn''t think of any other reason.


    ording to his original thinking, Zhi Xia should have chosen toe back after An MeiYun''s wedding. So when their parents told the brothers to persuade her, he had only made a perfunctory effort.


    Zhi Xia was baffled by his words, thenughed, "Second brother really has an imagination. What good would it do me to ruin her wedding? Keep her at home to continue making myself unhappy?"


    An Zhiren was a little embarrassed and smacked his lips, "Second brother is narrow-minded."


    But he kept feeling that from the first moment he saw Zhi Xia, he felt this sister didn''t seem as innocent on the surface as she appeared.


    Or perhaps he was overthinking it. How deep could the heart be for a girl raised in that kind of environment?


    "I also have a question I want to ask second brother," Zhi Xia looked at An Zhiren''s back thoughtfully.


    An Zhiren was not surprised. "What does little sister want to ask?"


    "When you ask me this, are you worried I will ruin An MeiYun''s wedding? Or do you and dad and mom have the same idea that your own is not as good as one you raised?" Zhi Xia''s eyes narrowed as she waited for his answer.


    An Zhiren paused. After understanding the meaning of her words, he shook his head helplessly, "Actually, third brother and I are more in favor of grandfather and grandmother''s thinking, but some things often don''t go ording to people''s wishes. Little sister shouldn''t underestimate yourself either. It''s not necessarily that dad and mom feel what they raised is better than their own. After all, people have feelings even for dogs they raise, let alone after raising MeiYun for 18 years."


    Comparing An MeiYun to a dog, Zhi Xia, who knew everything from her previous life, felt thisparison was unfair to dogs. After all, dogs still knew to wag their tails at their owners.


    "Second and third brother grew up together with An MeiYun. Don''t you have feelings between you?" Recalling their interactions these past days, the two of them hadn''t shown much intimacy towards her, but seemed even more distant from An MeiYun.


    An Zhiren said, "Fourth brother didn''t tell you about what happened between us in the past?"


    Zhi Xia was confused for a moment, "What happened?"


    An Zhiren nced back, not really seeing anything. But when he spoke, his tone carried indistinct feelings of sighing reminiscence. "In most families, sons are favored over daughters, but ours was especially different. Mom and dad treated us all the same, but back then An MeiYun was the only girl at home, so she was inevitably doted on a bit more. Plus, An MeiYun was very naughty as a child, full of tricks. Other than big brother who had more authority, we three had all suffered at her hands. And every time, we''d get scolded for being older brothers who should know better. Third brother once got so angry he ran away from home for several days and stayed at a ssmate''s before being found and brought back. After that, we three discussed and decided that no matter who suffered a loss, the three of us would gang up and beat her together. At worst we''d just get a beating together. It was around then that mom and dad started paying attention to the contradictions between us and also strengthened An MeiYun''s upbringing. After getting beaten a few times, she didn''t dare bully us anymore."


    So their rtionship with An MeiYun wasn''t good. On the contrary, the bonds between the three brothers were very strong after sharing the childhood experience of ganging up against one person.


    Adults always feel children''s fights and tussles are normal and don''t take these little contradictions to heart. They feel children are forgetful and can still be loving siblings after fights and tussles.


    But in reality, not every fight can be simply glossed over.


    What An Zhiren was also telling Zhi Xia was that no matter how they felt towards this new sister, they would definitely not take An MeiYun''s side.


    Moreover, although he and third brother hadn''t shown much intimacy towards Zhi Xia, objectively speaking, their impressions of this blood-rted younger sister were still pretty good.


    He sometimes even thought that if Zhi Xia hadn''t been swapped away as a child and grew up with them, perhaps she would also have been the cute and well-behaved little sister like those in other families.


    Unfortunately, there were no such ifs.


    Now, they were all adults. He and third brother also couldn''t behave as shamelessly clingy as fourth brother. Their sister seemed indifferent towards her family, and they were also at a loss for how to get along with her.


    The living room was still bright. An JingZhi and Zhou Nan walked in but found only An MeiYun sitting alone in the living room.


    Her hair was tangled messily, there was a palm print on her face, and half the cor of her shirt was torn off. She looked somewhat miserable.

 Chapter 58: Changes

    <h4>Chapter 58</h4>


    "What''s going on here? Meiyun, what''s happening?" Zhou Nan stared in disbelief at the scene before him, and hurriedly went to look at her injured face.


    Although An Jingzhi was not as flustered as she appeared, he also had a bad feeling in his heart, "Where are your sister-inw and Wenqing?"


    Upon hearing An Jingzhi''s question, An Meiyun''s expression instantly became panicked.


    Knowing that summer had just walked to the door, she heard An Meiyun say, "Dad, mom, I''m sorry, I think... I''ve caused trouble again."


    With her head lowered to the side facing Zhou Nan, the pped half of her face was just exposed to Zhou Nan. It was hard for anyone to believe this was not deliberate.


    "What exactly happened? Tell me quickly, where are your sister-inw and Wenqing?" Zhou Nan was stunned for a moment, then seemed to realize something and anxiously asked.


    "It was just after you left, Wenqing kept teasing me in front of me, I... I didn''t mean to push him down, I didn''t expect it to be so coincidental either. I just lightly moved my arm when he hugged me, and he just happened to fall on the corner of the table..."


    Zhou Nan felt the world spinning around her. Looking around, fortunately there were no traces of blood. She was so angry that she pped An Meiyun on the shoulder, "You idiot, aren''t you looking for trouble? You''re getting married the day after tomorrow and you''re still causing such an incident. Wenqing is just a two year old child, not to mention his mother is still at home. Even if he teased you, you could have just called your sister-inw over, why did you have to push him?"


    "I really didn''t mean it..." An Meiyun''s voice carried a sob, and she also looked frightened.


    However, she was not lying about this sentence.


    In fact, ever since Knowing Summer returned, her situation at home has not been good. Reborn once, how could she possibly repeat the mistakes of her previous life and offend everyone in the family, eventually ending up isted and helpless?


    In this life, she has been trying her best to please them.


    But this matter could not be med on her, it could only be med on An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan, this pair of ipetent parents.


    She was getting married the day after tomorrow, and the chances ofing back would be few in the future. Yet they still came to her room to tell her toe back less in the future.


    And they kept saying how hard it was for Knowing Summer, and told her to treat her well in the future.


    It was really a joke. What difficulties did Knowing Summer have?


    She had 18 years ofpanionship, but as soon as Knowing Summer returned, she took away everything that belonged to her. There was no existence of An Meiyun in their hearts and eyes.


    And to what extent was she eventually forced? She was humiliated and rejected on her wedding night when she came back to get engaged. She got a divorce as soon as she got married, and eventually died alone in a rented room.


    In contrast, although Knowing Summer''s life was a little bumpy, she had parents, an elder brother, and even Elder Pei''s favor. When she grew old, she still had a son who could support her.


    She upied all the benefits, yet they still said that An Meiyun owed Knowing Summer. On what grounds?


    Having her identity changed was not her wish either. She had lived in this family as their daughter for 18 years since she could remember, but was suddenly told that she was not their biological daughter and was to lose everything. How could she not hate this?


    She hated everyone, the An family, and even the Gao siblings.


    And funny enough, the Gao siblings even had the nerve toe and threaten her, demanding that she arrange jobs and give them money. If it weren''t for fear that they would interfere with her wedding, she wouldn''t even bother to say a word more to them.


    All the unhappy things piled up together, she was already very annoyed. But the little brat was stillughing gleefully in front of her, clearly mocking her.


    An Meiyun didn''t even think about it, or it was deliberate. A two year old child could hardly even speak properly, how could he understand anything?


    "Now is not the time to talk about these things. Meiyun, I''m asking you, where are your sister-inw and Wenqing?" An Jingzhi suppressed his anger and asked again.


    "Wenqing''s forehead was cut and bleeding. My sister-inw didn''t even give me a chance to exin before hitting me. I didn''t dare resist either, then she took Wenqing and left..."


    It was unclear whether An Meiyun''s words were true or false, but the neighbors came over to inform them after seeing the An family return, saying that Liu Ling took the child to seek help from them, then helped bring him to the hospital.


    After An Jingzhi asked clearly which hospital it was, he called An Zhixian and went out. Before leaving, he also asked An Zhiren to get to the bottom of what really happened.


    Although An Zhiren looked refined, he actually did not have much affection for An Meiyun. But he would not ignore her crying appearance.


    However, Wenqing getting injured still made him quite upset.


    Seemingly calm as he walked over, An Zhiren looked down condescendingly and questioned, "What exactly is the situation? I advise you to tell the truth, otherwise when your sister-inwes back and your parents find out what really happened, things will not bode well for you."


    Having lived together for several years, everyone had some understanding of each other''s personalities.


    Sister-inw was not the kind of person who would cause trouble for no reason. Usually when taking care of Wenqing, she tried to keep her distance from An Meiyun.


    It was hard to believe that Wenqing had hugged An Meiyun''s arm to tease her. He was more inclined to believe that An Meiyun disliked seeing Wenqing.


    It had to be said that An Zhiren still understood An Meiyun quite well.??readtest ch??pters at n/??v(e)lbi??(.)co/m


    "I''m not lying. It really happened." An Meiyun pleaded for help from Zhou Nan, "Mom, I know I can''t shirk responsibility for this matter, but you have to believe me, I really didn''t mean it. I don''t even know what happened. The Gao siblings suddenly came to find me today, insisting that I arrange jobs for them and give them money. I don''t have that ability! But they said they would keep harassing me if I didn''t agree, and wouldn''t let me off easily. I didn''t dare tell you and dad about this either. I was already feeling upset about this matter, then you and dad said those things to me. I know I shouldn''t ask for too much, but I really can''t help but see you as my parents. I was so heartbroken, I really only pulled my arm back from Wenqing''s grasp. I didn''t even see clearly how he fell. Then my sister-inw rushed over to hit me..."


    An Meiyun''s flustered tone was somewhat incoherent. Coupled with her innocent eyes and overflowing tears, she really had a somewhat pitiful demeanor.


    Unfortunately, this act could only fool Zhou Nan.


    And now, Zhou Nan, who was worried about her grandson, felt heartache for her. She couldn''t possibly say that she did nothing wrong.


    "Let''s wait until your sister-inw and Wenqinge back before we talk about it. I don''t know if Wenqing is badly injured or not. I pray to the heavens that nothing bad happens!" Zhou Nan anxiously prayed with sped hands, and then instructed An Meiyun, "Later when theye back, you must apologize sincerely to your sister-inw. No matter what really happened, you shouldn''t have taken it out on a child."


    "I understand, mom. You must also help me plead with my sister-inw." An Meiyun said softly with her head lowered.


    Zhou Nan sighed irritably, and didn''t forget to have An Zhiang take Knowing Summer back to her room.


    And today''s incident also made Knowing Summer reflect deeply on herself.

 Chapter 59: There is a Plan

    <h4>Chapter 59</h4>


    She had been thinking about being able to hit An MeiYun hard and make herpletely fall into an abyss, so she endured without taking action.


    After all, An MeiYun had been reborn for two years and must have made a lot of ns, while she had just returned. If she was careless, it might startle the snake in the grass.


    With her watching, at least the An family would not be harmed for the time being. Giving An MeiYun more time would allow her to be more deeply tied to Lin Hao. Then, when Lin Hao''s collusion with the enemy came to light, neither of them could escape.


    But she had miscalcted.


    An MeiYun had returned with hatred, she was a ticking time bomb from the start.


    She had not died ording to An MeiYun''s n in this life, and everything was changing. An MeiYun might not be able to wait until the same period in her previous life to make a move against the An family, shifting the crimes that should have belonged to the Lin family onto the An family.


    Moreover, during this process, every confrontation could possibly push An MeiYun to act against the An family.


    Even if it was not a blow thatpletely ruined the An family like in her previous life, minor shes were unavoidable. Among them, little An Wenqing, who was still a child, was most likely to be easily hurt.


    Returning to the room, it looked exactly the same as when she had left over the past few days.


    It was evident that the fourth brother had not been back to sleep either.


    Knowing that An MeiYun had acted against the An family two yearster, after she had married Lin Hao for over a year and the affection between them had grown, Xia still recalled the scene from her previous life.


    At that time, rumors circted in Jin City that there was an enemy spy passing on information, and this spy was rted to Lin Hao.


    Lin Hao''s father, Lin Zheng, had been a bandit on Heilong Mountain before the founding of the country. After the country was established, there was a major crackdown on bandits. Lin Zheng had the foresight to hide in Jin City with several brothers. Then they picked up their old profession as cooks before bing bandits and worked in state-run restaurants.


    Who would have thought that a cook had once been a bandit!


    A year ago, Lin Hao met Huang Cui and they had a one-night stand, after which Huang Cui gave birth to his son. From then on, there was a bond between the two. In fact, the one-night stand was deliberately nned by Huang Cui. After all, Lin Hao worked in government agencies and, although his position was not very high, he still had ess to a lot of information.


    Lin Hao slowly fell into Huang Cui''s trap, taking step after step guided by her to pass on information to her, from unintentionally at first, to being unable to extricate himself when he finally realized what was happening, and could only sink deeper and deeper.


    Plus there was a child between them that he had to consider more.


    It was after their marriage that An MeiYun identally overheard a conversation between Lin Hao and Huang Cui. She had almost been silenced on the spot. In desperation she came up with the idea to help Lin Hao clear any suspicion by shifting the me onto the An family.


    Huang Cui had a sister who worked at An ZhiXian''s hospital, and there had been some contact between the two sisters over the years. An MeiYun took advantage of this and hid a damaged telegraph machine in the An family''s study before reporting them.


    It had to be said, this move of hers was very clever, shifting all of Lin Hao''s guilt onto An ZhiXian, and getting rid of Huang Cui in the process.


    When An ZhiXian and An JingZhi were arrested, they still did not know what was going on. An Zhiqing''s status was special, so he was alsobeled as suspicious.


    The policy at that time was better to wrongly kill a thousand than let one slip by. Moreover, to get Lin Hao to take good care of the child, Huang Cui and her sister had colluded early on to bite An ZhiXian to death in exchange, providing the testimony and evidence.


    Unfortunately, Huang Cui did not know An MeiYun would never allow her child to live, nor would she allow the intelligence to be delivered as Huang Cui wished.


    It was not that An MeiYun was exceptionally righteous, she simply knew too much about what would happen in the future, and preferred to stay here using her foreknowledge to change the present situation, rather than take an unknown path in a ce she did not understand well.


    In the end, all three of the An family men were executed, An''s elderly parents died of anger, and the rest were exiled.


    At that time, in order to protect Liu Ling and the child, An Zhiqing had voluntarily proposed divorce earlier, but still could not escape the scheme that destroyed the family.


    At that time, An ZhiAng had not gone to join the army but was sent down to the countryside under An MeiYun''s scheme. When he hurried back after hearing the news, he still did not know all this was An MeiYun''s doing.


    At that time, he could only trust An MeiYun, but also fell into her trap and wasbelled as a hooligan.


    Exhausted from work, An Zhiren died from illness, and An MeiYun went to see Zhou Nan before she died, telling her the truth and angering her to death. Only An ZhiAng endured for many years before returning to uncover the truth, but by then he did not have the power to fight against An MeiYun who had be rich and influential.


    Lin Hao was undoubtedly the biggest beneficiary in this matter. Although his son died, he preserved himself and got rid of the threat from Huang Cui.


    Many yearster, he resigned from his job, and at An MeiYun''s urging went into business and became a famous tycoon in Jin City. He and An MeiYun loved each other for life and enjoyed a happy marriage.


    In fact, before marrying Lin Hao, An MeiYun did not know he was connected to the enemy, otherwise she would not have given up Pei JianGuo who also had feelings for her.


    It was also because in the previous life, Lin Hao was equally high-ranking and had a beautiful family life. But unexpectedly, that was just a facade, and before gaining those trappings, not only was his backgroundplicated, but he was also imprisoned.


    And now, this was a full two years earlier. Huang Cui had just given birth to a son and was still entangled with Lin Hao. But in order to stay in the city and marry Lin Hao, An MeiYun had gotten married ahead of time.


    Xia did not even know if Lin Hao had been seduced by Huang Cui to defect at this point, which was why she had not dared to make a move.


    As for her approaching Lin Zheng, she was actually just trying to find an opportunity to go to the Lin family.


    She even knew precisely where Lin Hao hid things, and where Lin Zheng had hidden the money he had plundered during his years as a bandit. But that was two yearster, not now.


    As for Lin Zheng, he was very shrewd. The ces where he hid his wealth were not in the Lin family home, so even if they were found, he couldpletely deny it.


    Therefore, before making a move, she first had to determine whether Lin Hao was currently being used by Huang Cui.


    Apart from this matter, everything else was just small disturbances that would have no real effect.


    But now Xia had changed her mind. She should act as soon as possible and not give An MeiYun another chance to return, otherwise who knew if anyone else would get caught up in An MeiYun''s schemes in the process, just like innocent little Wenqing today.


    Going to the hospital was definitely not as simple as a small cut. She didn''t know the extent of his injuries and couldn''t help but worry.


    Opening the trading device, Xia looked for the aquaculture magnate and luckily he was online.


    Ms. Era: "Do you have an electric bike?"


    Aquaculture Magnate: "If you need it, I''ll go buy one for you tomorrow."


    Ms. Era: "It''s toote, I need it now."


    The aquaculture magnate instantly realized something must have happened on her end and said, "I only have old electric bikes from workers here. If you need it, I''ll lend it to you first. Has something happened over there? Let me know if you need anything, or I can prepare it for you overnight."


    He himself usually drove a sports car. He did have several motorcycles, but they were too noisy to run, and he didn''t think the young miss would be able to use them.


    After two minutes, a half-new electric bike was sent over.


    Knowing Xia clicked to receive it.


    Ms. Era: "Thank you for your kindness, but I don''t need anything else for now. When I do, I won''t stand on ceremony with you. Do as you please, I have to go now."


    Knowing that her foot injury was not serious, Xia stuffed a pillow into the quilt to fake it. Then she quietly opened the door.


    The light in An Zhiren''s room was still on, and she could vaguely hear people talking, probably An ZhiAng discussing things with him.


    The light was also on in An MeiYun''s room, and sobbing could be heard from time to time, though she didn''t know how much of it was genuine.


    Knowing Xia guessed that Zhou Nan was probably also in her room.


    Luckily no one was in the living room. Knowing Xia hurried out the door.

 Chapter 60: A Place to Hide Your Money

    <h4>Chapter 60</h4>


    The big door was still open, so she got out very smoothly without making a sound.


    After jogging forward for a while and seeing no one around, ZhiXia took out a small bicycle from her space and got on it. Her feet could just reach the ground to support her.


    Although she had thought about secretly practicing with a small bike before, she had never dared to actually do it for fear of being discovered.


    Today was an emergency, so she could only take the risk this once. She only hoped luck would be on her side and no one would see her.


    Sitting on the bicycle seat, ZhiXia recalled that she had already ridden so far alone at noon. What she needed to ovee was not that she couldn''t ride, but her own courage.


    The feeling of her feet on the ground gave her some confidence back. From the initial slow start, realizing she hadplete control, she finally dared to go faster.


    Where she was going now was where Lin Zheng hid his treasures.


    She had followed Lin Zheng there many times in her previous life, and was as familiar with that ce as Lin Zheng himself. Moreover, she knew that in addition to the gold and silver treasures, there were also a batch of matchlock guns stored there.


    What she was going to do now was to get hold of those guns, and then try to make a trip to the Lin family. If Lin Hao was not yet an informant for Huang Cui at this time, she could only use these guns to bring down the Lin family.


    As for Huang Cui herself, she would have to think of other ways to expose her identity. An MeiYun couldpletely use the excuse of being deceived by Lin Hao to get away. This matter probably wouldn''t affect her too much.


    However, there was a downside - after the Lin family''s downfall, An MeiYun would lose her support again. If An JingZhi and Zhou Nan gave in to her again...


    ZhiXia smiled wryly with a hint of disappointment.


    So in order to be fully prepared, she had to make good use of WenQing''s injury.


    The best scenario would be if Lin Hao was already persuaded by Huang Cui at this point to get involved with the special agents. Even if An MeiYun was deceived, she and Lin Hao were in a free love rtionship, so she would still be implicated in some gossip.


    With someone else keeping an eye on An MeiYun, there was no need to worry about her causing more trouble.


    Riding the bike all the way, ZhiXia was lost in thought the entire time, seemingly oblivious to fatigue.


    So many thoughts appeared in her mind, yet each was sorted out clearly.


    She didn''t know how long it took her to get out of Jin City. The moment she was outside the city, she switched to an electric scooter.


    It had taken Lin Zheng half a day every time he went there in her previous life. She hoped that with the electric scooter, she could be faster.


    Leaving home after eight, she didn''t arrive at her destination until half past ten.


    It was a deste hillside covered in weeds, with several lone graves standing among them.


    But ZhiXia knew these lone graves were fake - just mounds of earth Lin Zheng had buried to conceal things.


    ZhiXia put away the electric scooter into her space and walked in alone.


    The howling wind in the pitch dark night did bring an eerie atmosphere.


    If it were anyone else in this environment, they probably would have been scared stiff. But ZhiXia was different - having been a wandering ghost for a hundred years, even real ghosts wouldn''t faze her. Humans were actually more frightening.


    Going further in, there was a small opening in the rock wall among the bumps and hollows on the hillside. It could barely fit one person crawling through. It could only be seen after brushing away the weeds.


    At this time, the weeds at the cave entrance were lush without any signs of being trampled. ZhiXia guessed Lin Zheng probably hadn''t been here for a long time.


    That made sense. This man was meticulous in his actions. Otherwise he could not have led the Heilong Mountain bandits to settle down in Jin City.


    He didn''te here often in her previous life either. It was only when this ce was going to be developed into a factoryter that Lin Zheng hastily moved things away, and she had followed him here a few times.


    ZhiXia changed into lighter sports shoes at the cave entrance. With her petite and slender figure, it was actually easier for her to get in than Lin Zheng.


    However, this clearly left signs of the weeds being damaged at the entrance.


    The space inside the cave was not big either, but the ground had been ttened so she could walk straight ahead without worrying about tripping.


    While walking further in, ZhiXia left a message for I''m Not A Zombie.


    Rich Little Wife of This Era: "Sis, do you have a way to revitalize the weeds here?"


    After sending this message, she began to carefully examine this secret passage.


    The passage was not long, just a two minute walk, and she arrived under those lone graves - the ce where the gold and silver treasures were hidden.


    The space opened up abruptly. The chamber before her eyes was not big, but filled with over a dozenrge locked boxes.


    ZhiXia naturally knew what was inside since she had seen it before.


    She was not interested in the other items, going straight to the box containing the long matchlock guns. She picked the lock open with a wire.


    Opening the box, inside was straw, and concealed beneath the straw were four or five long guns.


    Just as ZhiXia was about to take the guns away, she noticed an additional box that didn''t exist in her memories.


    Inside this box were two small, exquisite pistols.


    No wonder the notoriously evil Heilong Mountain bandits had such a bad reputation. This little underling Lin Zheng who escaped the raid had hidden so many treasures and weapons. The boss back then must have been even more ruthless!


    ZhiXia re-locked the opened boxes, then stored everything into her space.


    She also knew there was a secret chamber in the house where the Lin family currently lived. Back then, Lin Zheng was the point man in Jin City for Heilong Mountain. He had lived in Jin City for many years providing information to Heilong Mountain. The loot they stole sometimes could not be taken out of the city, so it would be temporarily hidden in the secret chamber.


    After the Heilong Mountain bandits were wiped out, it was actually Lin Zheng''s family that escaped control and gainedplete freedom.


    Lin Zheng was quite crafty, so he didn''t dare keep the treasures at home. Instead he hid them here. Even if they were identally discovered, suspicions wouldn''t lead back to him.


    Compared to Lin Zheng, Lin Hao was far less capable in this regard.


    If not for hiding evidence of his collusion with Huang Cui at home in his previous life, he would not have been discovered by An MeiYun either.


    Of course, if An MeiYun had not gotten involved and pinned all the me on the An family, perhaps Lin Hao would not have had the chance to get away either.


    What ZhiXia wanted to do was take these weapons into the Lin house and hide them in the secret chamber, so they could reap what they sow.


    On her way back, ZhiXia received a zombie nucleus sent by I''m Not A Zombie.


    I''m Not A Zombie: "This is a new function we just developed. The zombie nucleus can store the corresponding superpowers. This one contains wood elemental powers. Bury it next to the nt you want to stimte growth in. Dig it up when the nt reaches your desired state."


    ZhiXia herself did not have any superpowers and could not control the power in the nucleus, so she could not use this forbat.


    But this function was sufficient for her needs.

 Chapter 61: On the Wall

    <h4>Chapter 61</h4>


    After cleaning up all traces of herself, Zhi Xia took out her electric scooter and headed back. It was alreadyte into the night when she got home.


    Zhi Xia looked at the front door that was locked from the inside and felt hopeless. She had overlooked this when leaving earlier, and now she couldn''t get back in. What should she do?


    Possibly because she didn''t have to think much when she was a ghost in her previous life, her mind had be a little dull after being reborn.


    Fortunately, she still had her space, otherwise she would have been destined to be a sacrificialmb.


    Zhi Xia found adder in her space and was d that walls in this era weren''t built too tall, just a bit higher than an adult man.


    She sat on top of the wall and put thedder back into her space, intending to turn around and take it out again to climb down. But when she turned her head, she saw her fourth brother An ZhiAng standing at the door, staring at her intensely from not too far away.


    "There''s a thief! Second brother, third brother..."


    An ZhiAng had gotten up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom and was shocked when he opened the door and saw a shadow on top of the wall. He immediately started shouting.


    Zhi Xia was scared half to death by his shout. Sheid t against the wall to steady herself, barely avoiding falling down. "Fourth brother, stop shouting, it''s me..."


    Now she really felt hopeless. Everything had gone smoothly until she encountered the brother who treated her best when she got home.


    Why?


    How could he havee out at this exact moment, instead of two minutes earlier orter after she had gotten down? It wouldn''t have been so awkward.


    Especially when the other family members came out very quickly after hearing his shouts. And An ZhiAng happened to walk over at this time and called out to her, "Little sister? Why are you on top of the wall?"


    "Zhi Xia?" Zhou Nan didn''t even have time to grab a coat. He was surprised to see Zhi Xia on the wall.


    Zhi Xia looked left and right, then calmly said, "I couldn''t sleep so I came out for some fresh air. The room was too stuffy."


    Zhou Nan looked down at the goosebumps on his exposed arms from the cold and found it hard to believe.


    The weather wasn''t too cold yet, but it definitely wasn''t hot either.


    An ZhiXian suddenly felt his sister was rather interesting. "Little sister, it''s alreadyte autumn, the night air is damp. It''s not good to be in the cold wind for too long. Are you ready toe down?"


    Zhi Xia also felt for the first time that this gloating brother seemed a bit hateful.


    Trying to stabilize her mood, she calmly replied, "I was about toe down, but I realized it was easy to climb up and hard to climb down. I''ll need third brother to help bring a chair over."


    The height wasn''t a problem for her to jump down directly, but she was worried about twisting her ankle again. That wouldn''t be great.


    Zhou Nan urged him, "What are you standing there for? Didn''t you hear your sister? Hurry up and go!"


    An ZhiXian resigned himself to getting a chair from inside. But as soon as he brought it out, An ZhiAng took it from him and ced it right below where Zhi Xia was on the wall. He climbed up first himself and said, "Little sister, let me carry you down. You''re a girl and shouldn''t be doing such dangerous things in the future. It''s easy to fall."


    Zhi Xia didn''t stand on ceremony and reached out for An ZhiAng to catch her.


    She had to admit, she might have been eating too welltely and started somete development, even gaining some weight.


    After her feet touched the ground, Zhi Xia finally rxed.


    She brushed the dirt off herself and heard An MeiYun ask, "Elder sister Zhi Xia, what were you doing on top of the wall sote at night? It can''t be something you don''t want us to know about, right?"


    Her voice sounded a little hoarse, probably from crying too much.


    "I''ve heard it said, only when you''re a piece of shit do you see everyone else as shit too." Zhi Xia lightly replied to her, then asked Zhou Nan, "Sister-inw and Wen Qing are back right? How is Wen Qing?"


    Upon the mention of this matter, An MeiYun was instantly speechless and looked to Zhou Nan in confusion.


    But Zhou Nan didn''t give her any response this time. He only sadly said, "They''re back. Wen Qing got some stitches on his forehead. The doctor said it will scar."


    An JingZhi also spoke up, "Your sister-inw has been in a bad mood these past few days. You should all keep your voices down and go back to sleep."


    Then he looked at Zhi Xia, "Go through the front door next time if you need to go out, or let us know to leave the door open. If that doesn''t work, knock on the door. Climbing the wall is too dangerous."


    He could tell Zhi Xia didn''t want to say where she had gone. He was worried of course, but she didn''t grow up with them after all, so he didn''t dare be too strict.


    As for Mei Yun, he would also need to re-examine things.


    Out of his doting on Mei Yun, he and his wife had always overlooked some details. But hearing Mei Yun''s questioning of Zhi Xia just now, he felt there was some provocation in it.


    Although they hadn''t guessed wrong - Mei Yun did think that way, wanting to use Zhi Xia''s secrette night outing to cover up her pushing Wen Qing. But she didn''t expect An JingZhi and Zhou Nan to not take the bait.


    An JingZhi and Zhou Nan were the first to return to their room. The couple had been up most of the night discussing Wen Qing being pushed. They understood in their hearts that if they didn''t give Liu Ling an exnation for this matter, it would probably be indefensible.


    Moreover, Wen Qing was their first grandson, so their heartache was not small.


    Yet Mei Yun was still oblivious. At this time, the more she said, the more mistakes she would make. Even a sneeze could make people dislike her.


    Giving Zhi Xia a look of disgust, Mei Yun could only hold in her resentment and go back to her room.


    The three An brothers didn''t hurry to leave. An ZhiAng quietly asked Zhi Xia in a small voice, "Little sister, tell me the truth, where did you run off to just now?"


    In order to get the answer to this question, An ZhiAng steeled himself to reveal his own misdeeds. "Don''t worry, even if you tell me I won''t say anything to mom and dad. Let me tell you, when we were young, dad watched us very strictly and set some kind of curfew. But it couldn''t stop any of us. We often climbed over the wall to sneak out. Though the getting stuck going up and unable to get down has never happened to us before. So I''m curious, how did you get up there if you didn''t even dare climb down?"


    Sinceing back, this was the first time Zhi Xia felt her fourth brother talked a lot, asking things she didn''t know how to answer.


    "Fourth brother, what are mom and dad saying about Mei Yun''s matter? They can''t just let it slide easily right?" She wanted to change the subject, but also truly wanted to know the oue.


    If Mei Yun could get through this unscathed, Zhi Xia felt perhaps there was no need for An JingZhi and Zhou Nan to try saving her at all.


    Because they probably wouldn''t be able to believe or unwilling to believe Mei Yun was a bad person until she harmed them to death.


    An ZhiAng sighed and the atmosphere instantly turned heavy.


    It was An Zhiren who finally answered the question. "This matter won''t pass so easily. Although sister-inw has seemed very amiable and docile since marrying into our family these years, once she loses her temper even eldest brother can''t handle her. Let alone this matter where she''s totally in the wrong. There''s no way around giving sister-inw an exnation."


    An ZhiXian still remembered that a few years ago, for some unknown reason the couple had a fight in the middle of the night. Eldest brother had been kicked out in just his underwear to sit outside their bedroom door for half the night until mother spoke up before he could go back in.


    And normally the rtionship between eldest brother and sister-inw appeared to be him as the head of household.

 Chapter 62: The Mother鈥檚 Family Comes to settle the Score.

    <h4>Chapter 62</h4>


    Zhi Xia did not say anything more, just said that she was tired and went back to rest first.


    Looking at her closed door, An ZhiAng was shocked and looked at his two elder brothers, "Second elder brother and third elder brother, is my younger sister changing the subject? She still hasn''t answered my question until now, saying what she went out to do!"


    An Zhiren patted An ZhiAng on the shoulder and sighed helplessly, "It''s really hard for you to still be able to see it."


    "What is this, I''m not stupid either." He retorted dissatisfiedly.


    However, An Zhiren walked away decisively, leaving the two brothers standing behind.


    An ZhiXian looked at An ZhiAng with a half-smile, reminding him, "Hurry back to sleep, the family will be restless tomorrow, my second elder brother and I can still go to work to hide... " He paused, then continued, "Don''t go out these two days, elder sister-inw can''t take too much time off either, when mom is busy, help take care of Wenqing, after getting through these two days and marrying that woman off, that''s it, there won''t be so many worries in the family."


    After returning to the room, Zhi Xia did not hurry to sleep, but first went to the space to clean herself up. After going through the hole and the underground passage, she had to admit that it was dark and unclear, otherwise it would have aroused more suspicion.


    Therge bathtub in the bathroom was filled with water at a suitable temperature. After afortable warm bath, Zhi Xia got up, dried her body, and put on soft pajamas.


    She was really tired and didn''t want to cook anymore, so she took out a ready meal that the aquaculture tycoon had prepared for her from the storage box. It was still steaming hot.


    After eating and drinking enough, she went to check the trading board.


    The aquaculture tycoon only had one message asking her to report her safety after finishing her business.


    Zhi Xia smiled. Suddenly she felt a trace offort in her heart.


    Of those who cared about her the most, it was still friends from another world.


    After all, there was a rtionship of interest exchange between them. If she died or suddenly disappeared, the other party would lose a friend and lose a trading channel.


    Vice versa, it was the same for her side.


    After sending the safety message, Zhi Xia began to reply to I''m Not a Zombie.


    I''m Not a Zombie: "Sister, have you finished your business?"


    Ancient Times Little Rich Woman: "I have finished it, thank you sister for your help."


    It was alreadyte at night, they must have rested already, and there was no reply.


    What Zhi Xia actually wanted to ask I''m Not a Zombie was if she had any good medicine for healing wounds and removing scars.


    In her post-apocalyptic world, injuries and bleeding should be moremon, and technology was inherently advanced, so such medicines should not be considered rare.


    After leaving her a message, Zhi Xia was about to close the trading board and go to rest as well.


    Suddenly, a few big words lit up on the board.


    You have been searched by the interster ne, do you agree to add the Zerg Queen as a friend?


    Zhi Xia instantly showed a delighted expression and chose to add without hesitation.


    The Zerg Queen''s avatar was a strange creature with eight legs, purple all over, thick shells, a big mouth that took up half the face, and the exposed teeth were all serrated, looking a bit scary and fierce.


    Zhi Xia''s avatar was a random space picture she had taken, with a very aesthetic and beautiful artistic conception full of fruits.


    The avatars of the aquaculture tycoon and I''m Not a Zombie were alsondscape pictures, so she wasn''t sure if the Zerg Queen''s avatar was her true self.


    Don''t me Zhi Xia for being so suspicious. Because the background wall of the avatar was the room wall that came with the trading device, which was no different from hers.


    This was the first non-human creature she had added, and she was still a little nervous.


    Fortunately, the trading device can automatically convertnguages, so there was no need to worry aboutmunication barriers.


    Zerg Queen: "I heard that nts were very rich in ancient times. I need a lot of nts, edible leaves and fruits. I can buy them with star coins."


    Zhi Xia''s eyes lit up instantly. A customer who can buy with star coins is a big customer!


    Ancient Times Little Rich Woman: "Hello, how many do you need?"


    Then she sent all the fruit pictures of more than a dozen fruits in her space to the other party for selection.


    Zerg Queen: "Why don''t you buy a merchandise disy cab? That way, as long as the inventory is sufficient, I can ce orders myself."


    Zhi Xia didn''t want to tell the other party that she was scarce on star coins, for fear that the other party would raise the price. So she exined, "There are too many types of nts on my side. A merchandise disy cab can only disy one type of item. Opening too few is not enough, and opening too many wastes star coins."


    Zhi Xia didn''t know if the Zerg Queen believed her, but the reply came back very quickly, "Send me a thousand catties of each of these fruits first, one star coin per catty, okay?"


    It was totally okay. With this she could earn more than 10,000 star coins at once. Zhi Xia was excited but desperately restrained herself to stay calm, "Okay."


    14 kinds of fruits totaled more than 14,000 catties. Zhi Xia generously gave a lot more, because for such arge amount of fruits, it was inevitable that there would be some bumps and damage. After all, she was facing a big customer, she couldn''t let people pick faults, could she?


    After sending the goods, the other party immediately transferred 14,000 star coins, and then there was no message.


    1,000 star coins could add another low-level ne, but Zhi Xia wanted to hoard more.


    Zhi Xia took a look at the Zerg Queen''s merchandise disy. Many of the goods on disy showed this queen''s wealth, at least notcking star coins.


    However, the goods were a bit strange.


    Many male Zergs were priced very expensively, with a note below that this item may affect the stability of the foreign world and the system does not rmend purchase.


    Below were also some strange crystals, many of which were duplicates of those in the system mall, as well as high-tech products, not only expensive, but also rmended not to buy.


    Zhi Xia was a little disappointed. It seemed that the trading device was not omnipotent after all. At least these products that were far beyond the technology of this world were not allowed to use. Even if purchased, they could not be taken out of the space.


    In order to maintain the stability of the ne, as soon as these things were taken out of the space, the items would be immediately damaged.


    Zhi Xia suddenly thought that in addition to bringing her more star coins, high-level nes didn''t seem to have much greater use. On the contrary, many items could only be coveted with the eyes but not used.


    So she immediately changed her mind and continued to use the star coins she had originally wanted to hoard to search for new nes.


    The 14,000 star coins were instantly left with only 4,000.


    In the vast universe, another star was lit up. This time, Zhi Xia had actually searched the martial arts ne.


    After choosing to add, she could only wait for the other party''s response.


    She returned to the real world. It was already light outside, and she had just gotten the chance to sleep.


    Zhi Xia was awakened by a burst of scolding. The voice sounded a bit unfamiliar. She hurriedly got out of bed, changed her clothes and opened the door, just wanting to go out and see what was going on.


    An ZhiAng hurriedly pulled her into his and An ZhiXian''s room across the hall, and said in a low voice, "Sister-inw, your family hase to settle ounts with An MeiYun, let''s hide first and not go out."

 Chapter 63: No Deal

    <h4>Chapter 63</h4>


    An ZhiAng and An ZhiXian were so calm and didn''t show up at all, so An Zhi was even calmer.


    At An''s house, the Liu family had alle. Liu Ling''s parents and two elder brothers respectively stopped An JingZhi and Zhou Nan. The two sisters-inw had alsoe out in full force, dragging An MeiYun out. They beat and scolded her, while also telling the incident of An MeiYun beating the child in detail.


    Liu Ling held An WenQing, whose forehead had been stitched with several needles, and just stood there. Her crying red eyes and forbearing expression made her look both aggrieved and strong. Little Wen Qing was even more pitiful, lying on his mother''s shoulder with his stitched forehead exposed. Anyone who saw this would say An MeiYun deserved the beating.


    There were also people yelling outside, "Teacher An, you two don''t have to feel so bad. She wasn''t your own flesh and blood after all. Raising her to adulthood was already doing right by her. A girl who doesn''t understand propriety like this, even harming a child like Wen Qing, I see this is just her nature. People all say a rat''s child will bore holes. She''s just a bad seed that can''t be taught..."


    The speaker wasn''t too far from their house and normally had a decent rtionship with them. His family had a daughter about the same age as An MeiYun.


    The difference was that An MeiYun had acted out since she was little, while his daughter had always been obedient and often bullied.


    As children''s quarrels went one or two times he could still ask An JingZhi about it, but An MeiYun never learned and even acted worse after being disciplined, forming a little clique in the neighborhood to iste others.


    When adults wanted to intervene, they couldn''t exactly go to someone''s house and tell their child not to y with their own daughter!


    Over time, his obedient daughter didn''t even want to go out now, and she looked spiritless when seeing people.


    Now he finally had a chance to vent!


    The loud chaos in the house soon attracted people from the streetmittee.


    The two Liu sisters-inw quickly let go with smiling faces, exining to the cadre about the cause of the matter. They didn''t cause trouble for no reason, just protecting their younger sister and nephew who had suffered humiliation in their marital home, as older sisters ought to do.


    These were family matters, even an upright official found domestic affairs hard to judge. The street cadre most hated dealing with things like this. He only told them to speak properly and not use violence again.


    But with this spread, An MeiYun''s already meager reputation was thoroughly ruined.


    An MeiYun stilly curled up on the ground. Unfortunately, her past conduct had been so poor that few spoke up for her. The only two were local young men who got dragged away by their parents pulling their ears.


    Liu father also released his grip on An JingZhi and smiled, "Young people are hotheaded. Good conversations can''t be had when things aren''t phrased right and hands fly at a single disagreement. But they didn''t have ill intent either. This just shows my daughter was well-behaved and obedient since she was little, otherwise her two sisters-inw wouldn''t have been so furious to hear she was bullied that they hit so hard. Father-inw, don''t be angry. Let''s sit down and talk things through properly..."


    An JingZhi was definitely angry, both at An MeiYun and Liu family''sck of face. But he understood even more clearly that he really couldn''t justify his family''s actions this time.


    In fact, the Liu family wasn''t unreasonable. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have seen Liu Ling as a suitable daughter-inw for his son back then.


    Just as he was properly exining his intention for An MeiYun to leave home tomorrow, since what was done couldn''t be undone, and having her kneel for a few hours could count as punishment, while they would alsopensate Liu Ling and Wen Qing, as nothing else could be done.


    They certainly couldn''t sh An MeiYun''s forehead too, right?


    But Liu father''s expression changed. No one expected the two Liu sisters-inw to drag people outside.


    The Liu family wasrge, yet his sons were all hiding inside without oneing out.


    This attitude, along with his disappointment, was also the first time An JingZhi gained awareness.


    If An MeiYun''s matter wasn''t handled well this time, it could really drive a wedge between the hearts of all his children.


    Liu father earnestly pulled An JingZhi to sit in the living room, and had just opened his mouth. "Father-inw, no matter how the children are, we two can get along like one person after all these years. If not for my ties with you, I wouldn''t have felt assured marrying my daughter to your family. I had hoped you would look after her more originally. But this matter... I''m not saying you and mother-inw aren''t good people, I definitely trust both your characters and actions, just that when ites to children..."


    Liu father paused and sighed softly, "Don''t me me for ounting too clearly, but as your father-inw I still have to tell you, you don''t know how outsiders talk about your An family. But your good reputation built up over the years has nearly been ruined by An MeiYun. People all talk about how you two think by letting your own daughter suffer so much while still doting on the daughter of your exchanged child''s enemy. To be honest, I also can''t understand your thoughts. Anyway, I feel that no matter how deep the affinity, it should have a limit. Don''t hurt your own children''s hearts for another''s child, otherwise you''ll have nowhere to look for regrets when it''s toote."


    He had asked the child''s mother earlier. If his daughter wantedpensation, then this matter could be glossed over simply. But his daughter had her own career these years and didn''tck her husband''s allowance either, so she wasn''tcking money or that bit ofpensation.


    What shecked was an outlet for the grievance in her heart.


    Since this was so, he could take off the gloves.


    An JingZhi wouldn''t dare make further demands of his daughter anyway, or the Liu family wasn''t just eating in rice. Even if it meant mutual destruction, An ZhiQing wouldn''t be better off either.


    One who couldn''t protect his own wife and children was useless to him.


    His daughter''s maternal attitude was Liu Ling''s greatest backbone, otherwise she wouldn''t have been so stubborn.


    Zhou Nan was still in the yard, pulled aside by Liu mother to speak.


    Beforeing, Liu father had instructed that the children still had to live their days together, so the juniors should handle the beatings and scoldings, while the elders as parents had to steady the situation and couldn''t lose face even if angry.


    In this aspect, Zhou Nan couldn''tpare to Liu mother. Instead, Liu family''sck of propriety made her even more upset and stiff-faced without speaking.


    After much fruitless persuasion without concession from the other party, Liu mother also tired of ttering them.


    She protected her daughter, so Zhou Nan could frown like a donkey with no use. They still had to avenge the proper grievances.


    This situation continued until the old master and madam came over after hearing of An family''s news not long ago, hurrying over anxiously.


    Liu mother quickly went up to warmly grab old madam''s arm, "Mother-inw, it''s just the childishness of the children causing you elders such worry at your age."


    Old madam patted Liu mother''s arm. She didn''t even nce at Zhou Nan.


    Considering Liu father and mother''s temperaments and the dissatisfaction likely simmering from not resolving the children''s matter to their satisfaction, she and old master immediately realized they had to fiercely protect their youngest generation, the heart of their hearts.


    The old master and madam were extremely seasoned at their age. What was more heart-stabbing than their great-grandchild being harmed?


    Old madam first went to see her great-grandson, very distressed for a time, before arranging her expression and going with the old master to the living room.

 Chapter 64: Decision (Gift Plus More)

    <h4>Chapter 64</h4>


    After another round of pleasantries, the Old Master finally learned about the punishment An Jingzhi had prepared for An Meiyun. He didn''t say anything, just said to Liu Father, "If Grandpa Wen Qing still believes in this old man, let me take care of this matter, what do you think?"


    "If Elder An is willing to stand up for Wen Qing, then I can rest assured as her grandfather." Without a second thought, Liu Father immediately stood up, "It''s not our ce to meddle in the An family affairs, so we''ll take our leave first."


    After saying that, he signaled to his family and also instructed Liu Ling, "My daughter, take Wen Qing back to your room to rest, don''t go to work these next few days, just keep the childpany as much as possible."


    Liu Ling nodded. Then the Old Master said, "Wen Qing''s mother should stay too. You are our An family''s eldest grandson''s wife, you have the right to participate in family affairs, not to mention this matter concerns Wen Qing, you have more right to speak than anyone."


    The Old Master''s obvious show of support put Liu Father and Liu Mother''s minds further at ease. Even Liu Brother and Sister-inw had nothing more to say.


    After the Liu family left, An Zhiren and An ZhiXian came out, "Grandpa, Grandma, Mom and Dad, we''re going to work now."


    "Wait a moment, it won''t make a difference." The Old Master said, then added, "Have ZhiAng, ZhiXia and Meiyune in too. With the family in this state, we''re more of a spectacle than when your grandfather decided to sell our ancestral home to the country to donate an airne."


    Thest sentence was addressed to An Jingzhi, and made An Jingzhi feel deeply ashamed.


    The Old Master was advanced in years and rarely involved himself in matters anymore. As the head of household, he had failed to run the family properly, resulting in the current circumstances.


    Only at this moment did he realize how right the Old Master had been to insist that Meiyun leave the family.


    Whereas his own indecision had led to the current consequences. Compared to the Old Master and the previous Master, he was truly unworthy of being the An family patriarch.


    When everyone had gathered, An Meiyun also appeared before their eyes.


    At this time, her clothes were torn and disheveled, much of her hair pulled out, her cheeks badly swollen.


    But in front of the Old Master and Old Madam, not even Zhou Nan dared show concern for her, let alone the rest of the family.


    An Meiyun knelt with a thud, a sincere, solemn kowtow, "Grandpa, Granny, I really didn''t mean to push Wen Qing, please give me another chance!"


    The Old Master remainedposed, never casting his gaze upon her. Rather, he scanned the room and said, "Our family raised Meiyun for 18 years. It''s said that adoptive love is not as great as birth love, but setting aside anything else, our family can be said to have been benevolent and righteous to her these 18 years. I don''t expect she remembers any kindness from the family. Since she is dissatisfied with my arrangements and married in secret, the family will also respect her actions. The wedding will proceed tomorrow, Jingzhi and wife will see her properly out of our An family door..."


    An Meiyun was overjoyed, thinking the old geezer finally showed some humanity, but then the Old Master continued, "After sending her out, you two should have no more worries, right? When transferring her household registration, have her change back to her own surname. Now that ZhiXia has returned, you two should focus more on your own daughter rather than always treating someone else''s daughter as a treasure. No matter how excessive the Gao couple was, they did no wrong by her, on the contrary, to enable her to live well, they both sacrificed themselves. After all, they gave birth to her and gave her life. Letting her change back to her birth surname now is right, so she can fulfill her filial duty to her birth parents."


    "Dad..."


    Zhou Nan looked pleadingly, but didn''t get so much as a nce from the Old Master.


    The Old Madam still took the other children into consideration, leaving Meiyun some face, "The Zhou Vige side will send someone over too, right? Tonight I''lle over again, it''s been so many years since I''ve seen your mother-inw, so we can take this chance to have a good long chat."


    After all, times had changed. As a mother-inw, there were some things she could not say directly, but Zhou Granny as the birth mother could properly teach her daughter, lest she keep doing inappropriate things.


    Zhou Nan understood the implication, and dared say no more.


    In the years since her marriage, apart from being sent back to the Zhou family for a period of time at the beginning when the An family situation was turbulent, to protect her and the child in her belly, these years she had lived too smoothly, to the point of forgetting how formidable this mother-inw could be.


    When the An family had still been a prestigious household, the Old Madam''s mother-inw had passed early, and she was the mistress of the household, overseeing over a hundred people, plus the An family''s vast household and business.


    Her remark about chatting with Zhou Granny was of course not a real chat, but seeing that she could not condone Zhou Nan''s actions, she would have the birth mother properly discipline her daughter, lest she keep doing inappropriate things.


    An Meiyun was frightened out of her wits, begging and pleading for mercy.


    She knew better than anyone that although Lin Hao had some affection for her, if she really became Gao Meiyun and had no ties to the An family, there was no way he would marry her.


    The current circumstances were only achieved by her using some tricks to force his hand. This had already displeased him somewhat. If he further found out she had severed ties with the An family, her future days...


    An Meiyun dared not imagine further, and at the same time regretted losing her temper earlier.


    She had only identally injured the little whelp a bit, but it had brought the An family together against her instead. Recalling Zhou Nan''s ims of feeling sorry for her these past few days, it was truly ironic.


    Unfortunately, once the Old Master and Old Madam made a decision, it was unquestionable by the family.


    The Old Master and Old Madam were in no hurry, waiting until An Meiyun had cried enough and copsed in despair on the ground before speaking again, "Does anyone still have objections to my decision?"


    "I don''t," An ZhiAng was the first to speak.


    An ZhiRen and An ZhiXian exchanged nces, "We defer to Grandpa."


    Liu Ling''s stand was even more obvious, hugging her child as she bowed to the Old Master and Old Madam, "Thank you Grandpa and Granny for standing up for us mother and child."


    ZhiXia smiled, "I''m even more... eager for it to happen."


    The Old Master''s gaze fixed unwaveringly on An Jingzhi, leaving him no choice but to nod, "We husband and wife have no objections."


    Zhou Nan didn''t even have a chance to express her opinion before An Jingzhi spoke for her. Of course, her opinion was unimportant to the Old Master and Old Madam anyway.


    After everyone had stated their stances, those who had work to do left for work. Liu Ling had An ZhiQing help ask a colleague to cover her ss when he passed by the elementary school on his way.


    It was a simple, hardworking era wherebor was honored, and taking leave was not so easy, especially as a teacher, her taking leave would dy the students'' sses.


    No one saw the sh of resentment in An Meiyun''s eyes as she still knelt in the living room, ring fiercely at their retreating backs.


    When ZhiXia looked over, she hid her resentment again, pitifully begging, "Sister ZhiXia, I know you don''t like me, but I never meant to harm you. Please help plead for me, Grandpa and Granny dote on you, they will definitely listen to you..."

 Chapter 65: Contrast

    <h4>Chapter 65</h4>


    Looking at An MeiYun''s pitiful hands hugging her own pants legs, Zhi Xia grabbed the fabric of her pants with one hand, and suddenly yanked her leg out, even kicking her in passing.


    Looking at her lying on the ground in a sorry state, Zhi Xia mockinglyughed, "I''m so sorry, I didn''t mean it either."


    Liu Ling held the child without even ncing at them, said a word to the Old Master and Old Madam, then turned and left.


    Zhou Nan hesitated for a moment, but in the end didn''t say anything. Instead, she hid away in the kitchen.


    The Old Madam got up, took Zhi Xia''s hand, and said, "You just hurt your ankle yesterday, and you''re still so reckless today. You don''t even know to be more careful. I��ll have your fourth brother go and say somethingter so you can take a couple days off work."


    Zhi Xia wanted to find an opportunity to go to the Lin Family. Naturally, she couldn''t miss this opportunity from Lin Zheng. But she hadn''t told the Old Madam about it, and An Zhiang was uncooperative, so he ran off to ask for leave for her.


    In fact, the Old Master and Old Madam were not happy for Zhi Xia to take this job in their hearts.


    Their An family��s granddaughter, even if she didn��t have much education, the family could still support her.


    Things like cooking, just knowing some simple home-cooked meals to feed herself and take care of the family would be enough, for her future life��s sake.


    Unfortunately, the Old Madam didn''t know what was on Zhi Xia''s mind, but An Zhiang had already run off, so she couldn''t stop her either. She could only think of other ways afterwards.


    The Old Master and Old Madam had just arrived in a huff to deal with things, and they didn''t have time to feel heartache over their great-grandson.


    Now that everything was settled, they naturally wanted to go see the child, while alsoforting Liu Ling.


    After making a fuss all morning until now, they still hadn''t made breakfast. The Old Master and Old Madam also stayed to eat before leaving, but the time was already nearing noon.


    Zhou Nan tidied up the kitchen and came out. Seeing Wen Qing, she wanted to reach out and hug him, but was dodged by Liu Ling.


    The smile on her face instantly froze.


    In the few years since Liu Ling married, this was the first time she didn''t give face to her mother-inw like this.


    "A mother cherishes her daughter above all else, and although she looks after her grandson every day, it still can''tpare to the daughter she raised with her own hands." Liu Ling''s words had hidden thorns, and after saying them she directly hugged the child and left, without even going back to the room, but going out the front door instead.


    Zhou Nan''s face went from green to white, first filled with anger, then half a dayter, like a deted balloon, she sat on the stool in despair without saying a word.


    Liu Ling went out holding the child to call An Zhiqing, since the child had this happen, the child''s father had to know, lest ite out wrong from someone else''s mouth and end up twisted in the telling, med on her in the end.


    After finishing the call anding back, Liu Ling began to feel sad again.


    In the two years since the child was born, other than when she was home, most of the time the child was looked after by his grandmother. Usually, she was grateful and respectful towards her mother-inw.


    But this time, it really made her feel awful.


    If it was just an idental bump or scrape, she wouldn''t be so petty about it. After all, her mother-inw was busy with housework, it wasn''t possible to keep an eye on the child every minute.


    But that day when she came in the door, she clearly saw An MeiYun impatiently push the child, and the child''s forehead happened to hit the corner of the table, causing the current consequences.


    Liu Ling felt conflicted again.


    She still had to work, the child still couldn''t do without his grandmother caring for him. She didn''t worry about leaving him with Zhou Nan, but An MeiYun could absolutely nevere in this house again in the future, even just asionally.


    She had always known An MeiYun had a strong vengeful heart. With the child still in the house, she tried her best not to oppose her.


    This time, she really couldn''t let it slide.


    After finishing the call, Liu Ling walked back carrying the child. Returning to the living room, Zhou Nan was still sitting there. She didn''t know if she was angry too, but seeing theme back she didn''t say anything more.


    An MeiYun tidied herself up a bit and came out. Seeing Liu Ling, her expression unconsciously dodged a little. Then she said to Zhou Nan, "Mom, my face is injured. I''m afraid it won''t look too good going out tomorrow. Can you go with me to the hospital?"


    Zhou Nan sighed, took two dors out of her pocket and handed them to her, "The hospital isn''t too far, just go yourself. Mom has some things to deal with and can''t get away."


    An MeiYun''s heart chilled again, but under these circumstances didn''t dare ask for more or show her grievance in front of Liu Ling.


    She couldn''t rely on the An family anymore. Now the only one she could grasp was Lin Hao.


    Her looks weren''t outstanding to begin with. Usually she could be praised as delicate, mostly thanks to her well-kept hair covering her forehead and cheekbones, making her face look small and delicate.


    Now with an injury on her face, she was bound to be pointed at and talked about tomorrow when going out. Plus hearing about today''s mess, Lin Hao would probably be unhappy too when he found out.


    Zhou Nan and An MeiYun left one after the other, just An MeiYun wore arge sun hat that could hide her whole face when she bent her head down a little. Zhou Nan ran off to make a phone call.


    An Zhiqing had just returned after finishing the call with his wife, when he was notified of another call.


    As soon as he picked up the phone, he heard his mother''s sobbing voice.


    "Zhiqing, Mom knows she shouldn''t be protecting MeiYun, but after all she''s the child Mom raised with her own hands, and she''s getting married tomorrow. Your dad and I told her toe home less in the future, isn''t that enough? Why does the whole family have to insist on cutting ties with her? Mom''s heart aches, it was clearly the Gao family''s wrongdoing, why should we have to pay for their crimes..."


    An Zhiqing already knew what really happened from Liu Ling.


    Faced with Zhou Nan''s cryingints, he didn''t even say a word, just calmly waited for her to finish crying.


    Hearing the sobbing stop on the other end, and Zhou Nan not speaking anymore, only then did An Zhiqing ask her, "Liu Ling already called me earlier, and told me what happened at home recently. I heard it from her."


    Zhou Nan was not surprised. "Mom can see that your wife mes me. It really is MeiYun''s fault that caused Wen Qing to suffer..."


    "Mom, listen to me," seeing Zhou Nan about to start babbling again, An Zhiqing interrupted her and said, "When you and Dad protected MeiYun time and time again, did you ever think that the person hurt in this matter isn''t MeiYun or you and Dad, but Zhi Xia. She should have grown up carefree and enjoying everything you once gave to MeiYun in our home. But because of these things, not only did she not enjoy any of that, she suffered a great deal, was wronged a lot, and even ended up being sold. And have you thought, if Zhi Xia didn''t find out about her own origins and desperately run to her grandmother''s home for help, what would have be of Zhi Xia?"


    An Zhiqing spoke slowly and clearly, leaving enough time for Zhou Nan to think. Then he continued, "Our team has rescued some abducted or tricked women from the mountains before. I''ve seen those kinds of situations. They weren''t even regarded as human. So in this matter, I don''t feel sorry for MeiYun. She grew up carefree in our home, never worried about food or clothing, doted on by you and Dad. Even if you have to cut ties with her now, she has the ability to survive and a way out. I also don''t feel sorry for you and Dad, because Grandpa already made the decision for you long ago. It''s just that you always harbored wishful thinking, imagining that Zhi Xia and MeiYun could get along. The only one I feel heartache for is my sister I never met, who suffered so much that she never should have from a young age, and desperately found her way back to her parents through thousands of hardships, thinking she had found the way to survive, but instead faced bias at every turn, with no one to protect her. And when you shielded her enemy''s daughter in front of her time and time again, did you ever think about whether your own daughter had someone to protect her, whether she would feel sad..."

 Chapter 66: Make Another Demand

    <h4>Chapter 66</h4>


    Regarding Wen Qing��s injury, An Zhiqing was definitely worried. But he knew clearly that the root of the problem stilly with An MeiYun. He had to resolve her issues first before the family could regain its past tranquility.


    Or Wen Qing could leave. However, it was obvious that even without ever meeting his own younger sister, just based on An MeiYun��s past conduct, An Zhiqing already favored his biological sister. Since he was not home and had not seen Wen Qing, Liu Ling had seen her. Liu Ling said she was a beautiful and gentle girl. Although when she first returned home, her injuries and emaciated body made her look somewhat miserable. After this period of recuperation, she was much better now.


    When Zhou Nan hung up the phone, she only felt cold all over, a chill that seeped from between her bones.


    An Zhiqing was also silent for a long time after the call, but he did not leave in a hurry. After thinking for half a day, he still dialed An JingZhi��s office number.


    An JingZhi had never expected that the son whom he had strictly demanded when young, would now be lecturing him.


    Furthermore, every word he said was irrefutable.


    After An Zhiqing finished speaking to An JingZhi, he asked him to call An Zhiren over.


    When An Zhiren knew his elder brother wanted him on the phone, he was quite happy at first. But the result was not great.


    Since An Zhiqing was not home, An Zhiren was the oldest child at home. He should have assumed the responsibilities of a son and older brother, instead of seeing his parents�� bias and only caring about his own leisure. Also seeing the internal strife in the family yet turning a blind eye and deaf ear.


    An Zhiren listened with cold sweat dripping down his forehead. After hanging up the phone and turning to look at An JingZhi, he said, "Dad, you heard everything elder brother said right? You don''t want him to call and lecture you again right? I don''t want that either. So can you and mom behave yourselves from now on? If you have all that loving care with nowhere to put it, put it on us few biological children. Don''t just dote on an adopted daughter..."


    In the past, An JingZhi would have scolded him. But having just listened to An Zhiqing''s words, he suddenly realized how foolishly he had been acting these days.


    That''s right, their minds had always been on MeiYun, afraid she would not cope alone after leaving the family.


    But they had clearly neglected the people who should have received their love, who were once again hurt by their decision.


    An JingZhi understood a decision had to be made. He had been dragging his feet on the promise to Wen Qing. And now so many incidents had urred. If he did not make a stand on MeiYun''s matter, even Liu''s family would find it hard to speak up.


    Liu Ling took the initiative to find Wen Qing, "Little sister, may I ask a favor?"


    "Sister-inw, just say it directly. No need to stand on ceremony with me." Wen Qing said with a smile.


    "MeiYun has always been the resentful type. I have work this afternoon and can''t stay home with Wen Qing. Can you help look after him and not let him go to MeiYun alone?"


    Of course Liu Ling knew An MeiYun definitely would not dare harm Wen Qing at this juncture. But in dealing with a child, violence was not the only method. Covert ridicule and threats would not leave any traces, yet could still hurt him. Besides, he was young and got nervous easily, rendering him even more inarticte.


    "Of course, grandma made me take leave these two days so I have nothing to do at home. Having Wen Qing''spany will liven things up." Wen Qing said, stretching out her hand towards Wen Qing with a smile like a big grey wolf coaxing a little white bunny. "Wen Qing, want to stay home and y with auntie? Let auntie hug you, okay?"


    Wen Qing first looked at Liu Ling. Seeing her nod, he said, "Mummy is going to work this afternoon, to earn money to buy Wen Qing cake. Wen Qing stays home to y with auntie, okay?"


    "Wen Qing wants cake..." Wen Qing nodded very seriously, then obediently let Wen Qing carry him. "Mummy go work, Wen Qing be good. Mummy bye bye."


    "Alright, bye bye." Liu Ling''s eyes brimmed with reluctance, but she had to leave. "Little sister, I''ll leave Wen Qing to you. His pants are on my bed, please help change him if he wets himself. Or let mum change him. If he''s hungry, soak some steamed bun in hot water for him..."


    "I understand, sister-inw. Go to work with peace of mind. I will take good care of him." Wen Qing said.


    Wen Qing in her previous life just had bad luck. After being kidnapped, to keep him from crying out, the human traffickers hadced his food with drugs. He had quietly died along the journey.


    She could only watch on helplessly, anguished that she could not save him. Now that she had the chance, she would definitely be the best auntie in the world.


    Seeing Liu Ling leave and shut the door, Wen Qing sucked his finger as he looked on and softly said, "Mummy left."


    "Yes, mummy went to work." Wen Qing teased him. "Let''s go too, go y in the yard!"


    Wen Qing''s status in the family could be seen from his toys. A tin frog, a spinning top, a tambourine, bamboo dragonfly, there was a small wooden box in the living room specially for his toys.


    But what he liked best was still the pile of little wooden blocks big brother had gotten for him from the furniture factory during summer holidays. He had brought them home and carefully sanded them again to ensure no splinters would prick his fingers, keeping them in a small cloth bag.


    These were the primordial version of building blocks, a manifestation of the most sincere love from his father.


    Wen Qing knew to grab his little wooden blocks and totter over when Wen Qing moved the little wooden table in the yard beneath the tree. He happily stacked them to y.


    The auntie from next door was leading her little grandson past the door. Seeing them, she came in.


    "Wen Qing, your mum''s not in?"


    The two children were simr ages and often yed together. Without anyone urging, they scampered over.


    Wen Qing did not mind and generously shared his blocks.


    "She went out, not back yet." Wen Qing called out to her. "Auntie,e sit."


    She gave up the stool she had been sitting on for the other party, and went back into the house to take out another one.


    The other party clearly wanted to fish for details about the morning''s incident. Not that she had ill intent, just human nature to gossip.


    Wen Qing was tight-lipped and had no inclination to embarrass others. She just quietly listened to the auntie, only responding when asked, and even then only inconsequential things.


    Very soon, Zhou Nan returned.


    The other party conspicuously avoided mentioning the earlier incident, only making small talk with Zhou Nan.


    When An MeiYun came back with ointment over the swelling on her face, the auntie next door who had been chatting amiably took her grandson and hastily left, clearly very repulsed.


    Of course, the morning''s fracas was because An MeiYun had harmed Wen Qing and caused his forehead to be stitched with 4 stitches, still slightly red and swollen.


    An MeiYun went before Zhou Nan, her gaze pleading, "Mum, grandpa wants to sever ties with me. And I can''t bear to see you caught in the middle so awkwardly. Let me ask one thing of you all, okay?"


    "Speak." Zhou Nan''s mind was still clear after her son''s lecture earlier.


    "Tomorrow I want sister Wen Qing to be my matchmaker. What do you think?" An MeiYun quickly exined, afraid she would disagree, "News of this morning will surely spread like wildfire. It won''t be long before the Lin family knows. And you all will be severing ties with me. I''m afraid Lin Hao will look down on me. Please let sister Wen Qing be my matchmaker, at least temporarily hiding it from the Lin family so they don''t know you all have disowned me, alright?"

 Chapter 67: Ann Miyun鈥檚 Ladder Through the Wall

    <h4>Chapter 67</h4>


    Zhou Nan was pleading pitifully once again. If it were the Zhou Nan of the past, she certainly would have thought it was no big deal. But having just heard what her eldest son said, she had been doing a lot of soul-searching on the way back.


    Her eldest son was right. Behind this matter, the one to be pitied was not An MeiYun, nor was it them, but Zhi Xia!


    Yet she had been putting the cart before the horse, and as a result, her daughter who should have been able to happily grow up after returning home did not get to enjoy the doting love she deserved. Instead, she suffered harm again from her own mother.


    And knowing full well that Zhi Xia disliked her greatly, An MeiYun could still make such a request. Were her intentions really so simple?


    If she just wanted the Lin family to think she had a good rtionship with her own family, wouldn''t it be better to have her brother deliver the dowry?


    Some things really could not stand up to deeper thought. Now that she thought back carefully, there had been many dubious points in An MeiYun''s exnation about their family circumstances from the very beginning. It was because she could not bear to let go of the mother-daughter bond that she had believed An MeiYun''s words without even thinking of questioning them.


    After realizing all this, Zhou Nan felt a momentary hatred for herself. She had gotten the prioritiespletely reversed, and as a result, her daughter who should have been happy and carefree when she returned home did not get to enjoy the doting love she deserved from her own mother when she returned home. Instead, she suffered harm again from her.


    And knowing full well that Zhi Xia disliked her greatly, An MeiYun could still make such a request. Were her intentions really so simple?


    Zhou Nan''s face flushed red with embarrassment and shame. She scolded An MeiYun, "MeiYun, I do not agree with this matter. Do not force Zhi Xia any further."


    She had felt from the beginning that this request was not normal. An MeiYun''s aggressive insistence made her even more impatient.


    Seeing that her goal was not aplished, An MeiYun let tears fall again. "Mother, I don''t want to force you either, but on the way to the hospital earlier I ran into Lin Hao. He already knows about what happened this morning, and his father has great objections to our marriage. If none of you want me either, I''m so afraid that even after we get married, they will still look down on me. Mother, Sister Zhi Xia, please help me, just this once more, okay...?"


    Wen Qing was frightened by An MeiYun''s crying and reflexively threw away the block of wood in her hand. She ran into Zhou Nan''s arms and cried, "Wen Qing is a good girl, head doesn''t hurt anymore, granny shush..."


    Hearing this instantly made Zhou Nan''s heart ache. She hurried tofort Wen Qing.


    She was even more impatient with An MeiYun. "You child, you are getting more and more disobedient. You even frightened Wen Qing."


    "Your grandfather has already said for you to change your surname. Even if Zhi Xia goes to deliver you to the wedding, do you think you can hide it when you transfer your household registration? It would be better to be upfront from the start. That might even make others look upon you more favorably."


    An MeiYun clenched her fists, utterly unwilling to ept this.


    Why did her life turn out this way? How unfair that An Zhi Xia could live so well!


    It was too unfair.


    Even though she had been reborn, did she still have to let others control her destiny?


    She felt so indignant.


    Even if she could not live well herself, An Zhi Xia should have to suffer with her.


    When she raised her head, she concealed the hatred in her eyes. "Sister Zhi Xia, I''m begging you, is that still not possible?"


    She thought that by lowering herself to such an extent, she had satisfied An Zhi Xia''s vain heart.


    And that was true, in fact.


    Zhi Xia had been worrying about how to go to the Lin family. Now An MeiYun had conveniently brought her adder to climb over the wall. And she was even begging her to go. If Zhi Xia refused now, wouldn''t she be letting An MeiYun down after she had gone through such great lengths?


    Of course, she wasn''t silly enough topletely believe An MeiYun''s exnation. She had gone through so much trouble to make Zhi Xia go to the Lin house, so she must have plotted something bad to harm her afterwards.


    But where there was a policy from above, there was a countermeasure from below. She was unafraid. It could not be worse than her previous life.


    "Alright, if you''re not afraid that I''ll ruin your wedding, why should I be afraid? I''ll go."


    Zhi Xia smiled gently, but it made An MeiYun''s heart skip a beat. A bad premonition instantly surged up.


    But she quickly spoke loudly to thank Zhi Xia. "Thank you, Sister Zhi Xia. I knew you were just being stubborn but soft-hearted. Thank you."


    When Zhou Nan came back carrying Wen Qing and heard this expression of thanks, she hurried over in disbelief. "You agreed?"


    An MeiYun was afraid she would change her mind, so she quickly made up an excuse to go back to her room.


    Zhi Xia nodded. "I thought Mother would be happy."


    Zhou Nan felt veryplicated inside. "Zhi Xia, it was your father and I who were in the wrong before. We''re sorry we failed you. From now on, just follow your own heart. Your father and I will make it up to you properly. But as for sending An MeiYun off for her wedding, forget about it. I''ll go and talk to her in a bit."


    "Mother, although I never received a proper education, I still know that when you make a promise to someone, you should keep it."


    Sheughed to herself. How could she let someone take away thisdder that had fallen from the heavens?


    Her mother''s words should have moved her, but hearing the same thing said so many times without it being fulfilled, the initial feeling of being moved had beughable.


    Zhou Nan looked at Zhi Xia before her. She always had a gentle smile, giving off an impression of being well-behaved and obedient.


    And that was indeed true. But when it came to certain matters, she could also be exceptionally stubborn.


    Zhou Nan didn''t even dare to face her directly. She put Wen Qing down and fled, saying, "Zhi Xia, watch Wen Qing for now. I''m going to make some food for her."


    An ZhiAng had taken time off toe backter than An MeiYun who was supposedly seeing a doctor. Recalling Second Brother''s urging for him to stay home more, he felt a bit guilty.


    Sitting next to Zhi Xia, he yed with Wen Qing while exining, "Little sister, I just ran into Liu Jun on the road earlier. Thinking that I''m leaving the day after tomorrow and won''t know when I cane back, I chatted with him for a while. I already told him that after I leave Jin City, if you need any help with anything, go find him. He used to follow me around as a little brother. He has to listen to what I say."


    Zhi Xia felt that today was exceptionally smooth sailing. She had just been thinking about how to get Liu Jun''s group to go to the Lin house tomorrow as well.


    People who thought too morally would falter when it came to actual confrontations. For such battles, it was still these little generals who were best.


    Besides, they would not bother talking about any reason or morality. Young people tended to be more rash and hot-blooded. Even a small disturbance could re up into a big incident, let alone the fact of the Lin family''s connections to the bandits of Heilong Mountain.


    "Fourth Brother, I happened to have a small matter that I want to ask Brother Liu''s help with," Zhi Xia said softly into An ZhiAng''s ear. She then told him about what had just happened, and added, "I''m afraid An MeiYun asking me to deliver her to the wedding is fake, and her intention to harm me is real. I don''t want Brother Liu and the others to go through too much trouble either. Just have them hang around the Lin house tomorrow to y. That way, if anything bad happens, they can hurry over to save me."

 Chapter 68: Let Everyone Know

    <h4>Chapter 68</h4>


    When An ZhiAng saw Know Xia''s carefree attitude, he looked at her solemnly and disapprovingly, "Since you already guessed she has ulterior motives, why don''t you just reject her outright? Why go through so much trouble and put yourself in danger?"


    Know Xia sighed, "If I don''t agree, she may not fare well in the future and bring this up to pick fights again. My parents would feel bad for her and regretful. I figured this would alleviate their sadness and self-reproach."


    Speaking of Zhou Nan and An JingZhi''s attitudes, even their own son An ZhiAng felt disappointed. Hefortingly patted Know Xia''s head, "They don''t care about you, so don''t bother how they feel. If they act muddleheaded again, just move in with granny. I''ll give you all my military stipend to spend however you want when I start getting it. We don''t need them."


    That must be the so-called money brings confidence. Although the money hasn''t arrived yet, at least the confidence is there.


    Yet to be seen is how An JingZhi and Zhou Nan would feel when they hear these words.


    "Big brother, just listen to me okay? I''m not stupid so I won''t let them bully me recklessly," Know Xia hugged An ZhiAng''s arm and pleaded, not knowing if it would work since this was her first time acting coquettishly.


    But the effect emerged quickly. An ZhiAng was clearly very receptive. "Alright, I''ll do as you say. I''ll go find Liu Jun now. I remember another buddy whose family is close with the Lins. I''ll have him prepare a gift tomorrow and attend the Lin wedding banquet."


    "Oh right, there''s another thing," Know Xia held back the leaving An ZhiAng, "Didn''t grandpa and granny say they''d sever ties with her? Big brother, you should also go to the newspaper office and confirm this so it''s finalized early."


    An MeiYun and Lin Hao already registered their marriage. She couldn''t get away from the Lin family matters now. But An MeiYun still carried the An surname. It would be bad if this implicated the An family.


    Publishing the announcement was to absolve the An family of rtions and force An JingZhi to make a choice.


    Tomorrow, An JingZhi must sever ties with An MeiYun. Know Xia believed he wouldn''t be stupid enough to implicate the entire An family for An MeiYun''s sake.


    "You''re right, I didn''t think of publicizing it. Once it''s in print, dad can''t deny it even if he wants to." An ZhiAng''s eyes lit up at once, then hesitated, "But cing an announcement costs money. Little sister, you haven''t spent all your money, right?"


    An ZhiAng''s face turned red. Just earlier he haughtily said he''d give her money, but now he had to take back his words and ask for money instead.


    After all, second and third brother weren''t here, so he couldn''t take money from the Zhou family without Nan Zhou knowing. He also had no justification to take money from home.


    Having lived extravagantly himself, not much was left on him either.


    Know Xia took out the money from her pocket. She hadn''t touched the 150 dors at all and handed it all to An ZhiAng, "Is this enough?"


    An ZhiAng only took 50, saying, "Enough, enough. I won''t even use it all up. I''ll return the remainder when I get back."


    Know Xia forcibly gave him the 100 as well. "Take it all, big brother. Granny gave me pocket money so I''m notcking. Don''t feel bad. Make the announcement big with more words to draw attention. I want everyone to know An MeiYun is no longer a daughter of the An family. Also, Liu Ge and them used to be your followers, but now we''re asking them for help. We can''t skimp on proper etiquette. Use any remaining money to treat them to a meal and renew your ties. After all, once you''re gone, I may really need their help."


    "Alright. I''ll go to the news office first, then find Liu Jun." An ZhiAng didn''t decline again. After all, he grew up well-off and wasn''t that stingy despite sometimes being tight on cash.


    Know Xia was in great spirits. Zhou Nan made egg drop soup and she volunteered to feed Wen Qing.


    In the afternoon, Zhou Granny brought her two sons over, carrying lots of stuff in bags.


    Zhou Nan figured since her mother-inw said she wasing, it probably wasn''t to joke around and would point out her mistakes again. So she gave Zhou Granny a heads up and exined in advance.


    Not only did Zhou Granny scold Zhou Nan, but she also took the initiative to visit the olddy.


    As a midwife, she was looked down on as a busybody back then.


    But she gained status by marrying into the wealthy and prestigious An family. The old master even had military merits, donating money before the PRC founding and nes after. The ne donation certificate was framed in the living room. The family still boasted social standing today.


    Zhou Granny valued this inw family greatly. Vanity was one reason. But the family was also beyond her own social reach, so she admired them. Every time Zhou Nan returned, Zhou Granny would berate her.


    Yet she still didn''t expect the girl to be so muddleheaded this time.


    Seeing Know Xia return enthusiasticallyst time, Zhou Granny thought the young couple doted on their daughter-inw. But instead, they hurt their own daughter for an adopted daughter, even upsetting the olddy.


    This was the daughter-inw''s mistake indeed, so even through gritted teeth, Zhou Granny couldn''t me the inws for not giving face.


    At night, the family gathered.


    No one understood Know Xia''s decision to deliver An MeiYun for marriage, especially given An MeiYun''s urgent attitude aroused more suspicion.


    Oddly, Know Xia, who never got along with An MeiYun, agreed this time.


    The Zhou family''s two uncles sat silently. The An family''s matters weren''t their ce toment, but they thought that when attending tomorrow, they couldn''t just eat, drink and be merry. They had to watch over Know Xia as well.


    From their discussion, it almost seemed like An MeiYun wanted to harm Know Xia.


    Everyone had their own thoughts, but things were decided this way.


    At daybreak, the An family bustled about even without hosting a banquet.


    Know Xia helped peel and boil eggs to treat the groomter. Another girl was also going to deliver An MeiYun. She was An MeiYun''s ssmate, a prima donna at 17. She was also very friendly to Know Xia.


    Know Xia knew her. Also a pitiable girl.


    Last life, An MeiYun got her drunk and pushed her into fourth brother''s room. Fourth brother had just rushed back from the countryside then. With family members dead or gone, he let his guard down with An MeiYun and was schemed against.


    Later her family, afraid of the An family''s implications, locked her in and imed she killed herself in fourth brother''s room. Mutual affection could''ve meant light punishment, but rape was a major crime.


    An MeiYun''s viciousnessbined with her family''s selfishness led to fourth brother being sentenced to 10 years ofbor reform. She also grew increasingly silent amidst rumors, eventuallymitting suicide by drowning.


    Know Xia looked outside. The yellowing tree leaves split the sunlight into speckles. Nice weather.


    Firecrackers sounded loudly when the groom came to fetch the bride.


    After the groom Lin Hao finished egg and tea, he brought An MeiYun out of her room.


    Know Xia and Wang Li followed behind the bride and groom in the bridesmaids'' car, while the Zhou uncles would be going too. An ZhiAng volunteered to deliver the dowry and had already gone ahead.


    At the Lin house, Know Xia and Wang Li were led into a room to be entertained while the bride was taken to the bridal chamber.


    Bridesmaids had no other duties in theter process.


    Know Xia peeked outside. The bridal chamber was very lively, with frequent loudughter. The yard had very few people now.


    The person entertaining them perfunctorily let them sit before leaving. Then a sweetly smiling girl came in with two cups of tea for them, asking them to drink up.

 Chapter 69: Each has His Own Plan

    <h4>Chapter 69</h4>


    But Zhi Xia knew that An Mei Yun''s intentions were not pure today, so she didn''t dare drink it. Instead, she pretended to drink but sent it directly into her space where she gave it to a rabbit.


    Only Zhi Xia and Wang Li were left in the room. Wang Li was quite happy eating peanuts and melons, chatting with Zhi Xia from time to time.


    Zhi Xia chatted with her and stood up saying she was going to the bathroom.


    The room with the secret chamber was next door. She could only take action during this time before the meal started. Otherwise, once the meal started and there were many people around, it would be very inconvenient to find an opportunity.


    The big cooking pot was set up in the yard, with two people busily preparing. Another person was squatting next to them helping pick vegetables.


    Zhi Xia stood at the door and nced at the room next door. The door was not locked.


    This really showed Lin Zheng''s cleverness. In this day and age, the best policy was to keep your doors unlocked at night and not pick up things on the road. The other doors were wide open to receive guests. If only this one room was locked, it would really make people suspicious that there was something improper inside.


    But it also reassured her that she had made preparations in advance. As long as she put those things from her space inside, it would be fine.


    Zhi Xia watched for an opportunity when no one was paying attention to her, then quickly walked forward a few steps and slipped into the room.


    The room was filled with so many things, somewhat messy, as if it had just been moved in to deliberately create the mess.


    Behind the table hung a portrait of a great man. Zhi Xia calmly put on gloves, walked over and flipped open the portrait. Behind the portrait was apartment, and inside thepartment was an empty incense burner. After turning the incense burner three times, the 3rd floorboard from the door popped open.


    This was an old house. In the past, wealthy families wouldy wooden floors in their homes. The yard was not very big because a wall had been erected in the middle to divide one yard into two households.


    After all, many families still lived squeezed together in one room across generations. Lin Zheng only had one son, Lin Hao, so he didn''t dare upy too much space either.


    Moreover, he was a man with secrets, so he had to keep a low profile.


    Zhi Xia had adder in her space. In the fastest possible time, she put everything into the secret chamber, then put the floorboard back to restore it to its original state.


    The difference was that she didn''t restore the incense burner properly. This section of floor was still slightly raisedpared to the others.


    Fortunately, it was not obvious unless you looked closely. With just the weight of one person stepping on it, the floorboard would sink down,pletely exposing the secret chamber below.


    Zhi Xia also left a contingency n. She opened the box containing the gold bars. With the dark lighting in the secret chamber, as soon as the floor sank, the bright golden light would be very conspicuous from outside.


    After doing all this, she didn''t daree out until she was sure no one was outside.


    Returning to the room, Wang Li asked her, "Why were you gone for so long? Did you find the toilet?"


    Zhi Xia nodded, "I found it. It''s in that corner. Just now there was someone inside so I waited for a while."


    Wang Li said gratefully, "Okay, thank you for that. I should have gone to stand guard for you earlier."


    Zhi Xia said, "At first I didn''t think so, but when I was squatting I kept worrying. It was so ufortable."


    Seeing how harmonious the two of them were, who could have guessed that Zhi Xia was still guarding against the other person?


    Standing at the toilet door, Zhi Xia saw Lin Zheng more than once.


    At over 50 years old, he had a figure full of professionalism, and didn''t seem to have the joy of marrying off a daughter-inw. asionally there was a sh of dissatisfaction and sharpness in his eyes.


    Their eyes met and Zhi Xia nodded in greeting.


    Seeing her standing at the toilet door, Lin Zheng knew what it meant, and didn''t mind that she hadn''te over.


    With the sound ofughter and frolickinging from the new house, it was almost time to start eating.


    Zhi Xia and Wang Li were invited into the main room and sat next to the bride. Except for them, this table was all men, including Lin Hao''s colleagues.


    An ZhiAng walked in, frowned when he saw this scene, and deliberately spoke sternly to Zhi Xia, "You''re still young, you can''t drink alcohol."


    Having said that, he immediately switched to a smiling expression, put his hand on a man''s shoulder and said, "Brothers, my two younger sisters are underage. If you want to drink, go to the other room to find me. Don''t bully the girls."


    The man jokingly went along with it. An MeiYun then spoke up, "Fourth brother, don''t worry. These are Ah Hao''s friends, not undisciplined people."


    With everyone watching, An ZhiAng could only nod and tell An MeiYun not to drink too much either, since she still had to make toastster.


    After An ZhiAng left, Wang Li whispered tremblingly to Zhi Xia, "Zhi Xia, are you scared? I''m afraid of what to do if they insist on making us drinkter?"


    One task for the female escorts in the wedding entourage was to block drinks for the bride.


    Zhi Xia certainly wouldn''t voluntarily help An MeiYun, but she was afraid their goal wasn''t An MeiYun but herself.


    She had already noticed that the eyes of the men opposite had nced at her more than once.


    After all, Zhi Xia was not as vicious as An MeiYun. She secretly passed a sobering pill to Wang Li under the table and whispered, "Sobering pill. Look for a chance to take it secretly. Later just pretend to faint, ory your head on the table. They can''t just pour alcohol directly into you."


    Wang Li really had no defenses at all. Fortunately, Zhi Xia didn''t intend to harm her, otherwise the consequences of swallowing this pill would be unimaginable.


    Today was An MeiYun''s wedding. She wasn''t stupid enough to openly drug someone when the situation was like this. If Zhi Xia acted too brazenly, even a fool could see something was wrong.


    Among the people at this table, two were especially skilled at forcing others to drink. When the conversation reached a certain point, refusing to drink was seen as disrespect.


    Sure enough, several men used a wheel tactic to force the two girls to drink. Even with the sobering pill, Wang Li couldn''t handle it.


    After just two drinks, she started feeling dizzy.


    Zhi Xia readily epted every toast. No matter who raised their cup, she would immediately tilt her head back and drink without saying a word. Yet not a single drop of alcohol actually entered her mouth, as it all flowed into her space.


    The meal was only half finished when Wang Li couldn''t take it anymore. She tugged on the corner of Zhi Xia''s clothes under the table.


    She had already asked An MeiYun for help earlier, and An MeiYun had only said something perfunctory that she could tell was just for show.


    She now regretteding. If it wasn''t for An MeiYun saying she was also innocent, and just based on the rumor about the An family''s real and fake daughters, she really wouldn''t have wanted toe. But she had fallen for An MeiYun''s trap.


    A table full of men getting her and another girl drunk, what were they trying to do?


    When someone toasted her again, Zhi Xia blocked her mouth to signal Wang Li to duck under the table.


    Wang Li red at her, giving her a "you asked for this" look, and obedientlyid her head down on the table.


    She finally realized that Zhi Xia could handle the drinking and wasn''t afraid. She had been drinking steadily for half a day without even a change in expression. Wang Li decided she should just take care of herself first.

 Chapter 70: It Made It

    <h4>Chapter 70</h4>


    Watching An MeiYun keep drinking without any issues, Zhi Xia was anxious.


    The people outside were almost gone, and she had barely convinced Lin Hao to help stall Zhou Family Uncle and An ZhiAng. If it took too long, they would definitely get suspicious.


    Zhi Xia was anxious too, but she couldn''t be the only one getting drunk if they wanted to cause a scene.


    After all, it''s more interesting when men get drunk, especially since there were some people here who were particrly prone to drunk tantrums.


    From being steady as a rock at first to swaying tipsily at the end, Zhi Xia was clearly exhibiting the behavior of a drunk as she actively went around with a cup to get people to drink with her.


    Her behavior clearly relieved An MeiYun and Lin Hao.


    Zhi Xia had originally wanted to use getting drunk as an excuse to throw a tantrum and expose the Lin Family''s secret room, but when she happened to see Huang Cui sitting outside eating, she changed her mind.


    Using the excuse of needing the bathroom, Zhi Xia took a walk around outside and came back slurring, "There''s someone called Huang Cui outside asking me to help call Lin Hao to the storage room. Who''s Lin Hao? I don''t know."


    The name Huang Cui made Lin Hao panic. He hurriedly stood up, "Auntie, my mom probably needs me for something. You guys keep drinking, I''ll go take a look."


    An MeiYun was still smiling. Clearly at this point, she still didn''t know about the existence of Huang Cui.


    When Lin Hao went outside, he saw Huang Cui sitting at the banquet giving him a flirtatious look when he came out.


    Lin Hao had been extremely annoyed by Huang Cui''s clinginess recently. He had warned her yesterday not toe to the wedding, but she still showed up and even dared to look for him at this critical juncture.


    Lin Hao signaled her to go to the storage room.


    Huang Cui furrowed her brows, truly unable to understand Lin Hao''s thoughts.


    Hadn''t he been trying to distance himself from her? She was only here for the banquet to remind him not to forget about her and their child just because he had a new wife. She hadn''t taken the initiative to look for him, yet he wasn''t afraid of exposing their rtionship and called her out first.


    Huang Cui was not a timid woman, otherwise she wouldn''t have made it this far.


    She smiled coquettishly and gave Lin Hao an ambiguous look before getting up to follow him to the storage room.


    But very soon, not even two seconds after they went upstairs, screams could be heard from Lin Hao in the storage room.


    "I think I heard someone screaming, did something happen?" Zhi Xia immediately sobered up and walked towards the door.


    Lin Hao''s screams were pretty loud, so many people noticed and got up to go take a look since the tables today were all Lin Family''s friends and colleagues. They naturally wanted to see what was going on.


    Then they saw the golden glow emitting from the secret passage in the Lin Family storage room. Anyone peeking in would be blinded by the golden hue.


    In the main room, only An MeiYun and the two men she had conspired with remained, while the pretend drunk Wang Li resisted her curiosity and stayed face down on the table.


    The men were a little impatient and asked An MeiYun, "Sister, didn''t we agree that you would get my brother a wife? Otherwise we wouldn''t havee today either. That Zhi Xia is clearly hard to deal with. None of us at the table could take her down. My brother is not picky, this one will do. "


    He was clearly referring to Wang Li, who just happened to overhear them while pretending to be drunk. She instantly disregarded her act, stood up and smashed her cup on the man''s head before questioning An MeiYun, "You''re so shameless. Don''t forget what you told me when you came looking for me the other day. My mom didn''t even want me toe at first. I only helped because I felt bad for you. Turns out you had this filthy idea all along. Do you deserve the care you received from the An Family? Do you deserve my friendship?"


    No one expected Wang Li to be pretending.


    Seeing their n exposed, the man moved to attack her and looked to An MeiYun, "What are you staring nkly for? Come help. We can''t let today''s raw rice remain uncooked. We can''t let this girl side with them. If she exposes your ns, do you think you''ll still be safe?"


    Only then did Wang Li realize that the silent man who had been sitting and eating next to the other man was an idiot!


    This was just too infuriating.


    An MeiYun was also resentful that Wang Li''s act had ruined her ns, so she figured she might as well go all in, "Knock her out and take her to the bed. Let your brother go too. Then we''ll go out. It''s chaotic out there right now so we''ll just say she got drunk and threw herself at him. After all your brother is not very smart."


    Since who would me an idiot anyway if something happened?


    "Help...!" Wang Li was not stupid. She flipped the table and took the chance to push the man away while yelling, "Help, they want to rape me!"


    She didn''t know if An MeiYun was too anxious and slipped up by revealing her n in front of her.


    Although most people outside were drawn to themotion from Lin Hao, some still heard Wang Li''s cries for help and came over.


    "What are you doing?"


    "The girl is drunk and speaking nonsense. I was getting someone to help bring her to the bed to rest, but she flipped the table instead." An MeiYun exined.


    How could Wang Li let her gloss over it like this? She shook off the man''s hand and shouted, "Save me quick! They want to rape me!"


    Wang Li found a chance to push away and run outside. The man didn''t know who was telling the truth either, so he said, "You guys should still go out and take a look. Something big seems to have happened to your Lin Family!"


    An MeiYun was still confused, thinking she needed to hurry out and find Wang Li to prevent her from speaking recklessly.


    However, as soon as she stepped outside, she saw everyone gathered at the storage room door, pointing and murmuring strange things.


    Even Liang Zhiwei was there. He had gained his promotion relying on this case, so although he was somewhat acquainted with Lin Zheng, those connections were nothingpared to his own interests.


    Moreover, for his own interests, he was even capable of harming his father-inw, so how could one expect any conscience from him?


    Zhi Xia was not among these people. She had slipped away in the chaos.


    An ZhiAng hadn''t drunk a single drop today. No matter what others said, he kept his attention on the movements from the room Zhi Xia was in.


    Seeing Zhi Xia slip away, he also went out after her.


    Then he saw Zhi Xia secretly pull Liu Jun aside to speak privately.


    The people around Liu Jun all recognized An ZhiAng, so he went over without anyone stopping him.


    Then he heard his sister drunkenly say to Liu Jun, "Brother Liu, something big has happened to the Lin Family. You must seize this great contribution, I won''t say anything more. Go take a look and you''ll know. Oh right, I must remind you, regarding that Huang Cui woman with Lin Hao, I think I overheard them mention something about special agents. I don''t know if I misheard, but just to be safe, I suggest you don''t mention it for now to avoid alerting them. You should send a couple brothers to quickly search Huang Cui''s ce, who knows, you may be able to find something..."


    There was no need for the Lin Family to panic yet, since too many people had seen it. With so much money and guns, there had to be a source right? They wouldn''t be able to conceal the Heilong Mountain bandit case this time even if Lin Zheng wanted to hide it.


    Special agents were a big deal. If they really caught her, promotions and fortunes awaited.


    Liu Jun mingled amongst themon folk all day, so naturally he was unwilling to remain just a low-level leader.


    "Little sister, do you know where Huang Cui lives?"


    "I know. I actually found out about the affair between Lin Hao and Huang Cui a while ago. They even have a child. Last time after I saw Lin Hao leave Huang Cui''s ce I asked around. I was too scared to say anything then. Don''t tell anyone it was me who told you this. Huang Cui lives at..."

 Chapter 71: Choosing the Lesser of Two Evils

    <h4>Chapter 71</h4>


    ZhiXia seemed dizzy, but she was very clear and exined everything in great detail. She even gave suggestions to Liu Jun.


    Liu Jun was eager to earn merit so he did not notice, but An ZhiAng who was on the side had aplicated expression.


    Only after Liu Jun left with people to cooperate did ZhiXia pay attention to An ZhiAng.


    "Fourth brother..." ZhiXia lowered her eyelids, not knowing how long An ZhiAng had been here listening, especially to what she said about HuangCui.


    An ZhiAng was always impatient, but this time, unexpectedly, he did not think of getting to the bottom of it. Instead, he pulled ZhiXia and said, "Let''s go home first."


    Some things were not for them to get involved in.


    Especially now, with An MeiYun added to the mix, it was possible their An family would be fully investigated. He had to go back and discuss with his family first.


    ZhiXia looked at his expression and nodded, "Call uncle too."


    "You wait here, I''ll go," said An ZhiAng and walked back into the Lin house. But now, the lively Lin house for the wedding had be a different kind of lively.


    ZhiXia knew clearly that as long as Liu Jun found evidence at HuangCui''s ce, An MeiYun could not easily get away even if she decisively divorced Lin Hao.


    But this was not the end, it was a repositioning of her rtionship with the An family.


    But it didn''t matter anymore.


    She was just an ordinary person, she could not save anyone for a lifetime,


    She had done her part, removing most of the threat from An MeiYun. Without the Lin family''s backing, she was just an ordinary person.


    Even if she had intended to harm the An family, the time, location, people were all not right.


    Unless An JingZhi and Zhou Nan reconciled again and epted her, with the An family''s help, she might be able to prop up another Lin Hao.


    If that really happened...


    Ha!


    ZhiXia sighed.


    The most difficult people to save in this world are those who insist on courting death.


    When An ZhiAng came out, he was dragging one hand each of two half-drunk uncles, with the frightened Wang Li following behind.


    Perhaps because they were victims, as soon as Wang Li saw ZhiXia, she dropped thest pretenses of strength and ran over to hug ZhiXia, crying, "ZhiXia, An MeiYun is such a terrible person, do you know, they desperately got us drunk today, trying to get you to consummate with an idiot, seemingly to exchange for some benefit. After you left, they saw no hope in harming you, so they turned their attention to me. Fortunately you told me to pretend to pass out, if I really got drunk, I would not havee back today, wuwu..."


    Hearing this, ZhiXia was not surprised at all. An ZhiAng also did not say a word, just unconsciously used more strength holding his two uncles'' arms.


    The big uncle yelped in pain, "What do we do now? I saw many soldiers rush in, the Lin house must be finished now. Not only did they hoard a lot of gold and silver, I saw them move out guns too!"


    "Go home," said An ZhiAng. Then to Wang Li he said, "Comrade, you should go back too. Let me advise you, don''t get involved in today''s matters. No matter your rtionship with An MeiYun, for your own good, keep your distance from now on."


    "Okay, I understand," Wang Li nodded furiously. Without being told, she had seen An MeiYun''s true colors today.


    She was just an ordinary person, she would naturally avoid such a person.


    The bicycle wheels spun madly as An ZhiAng carried ZhiXia, leaving the two uncles far behind.


    Things had calmed down at home, only An JingZhi, Zhou Nan and mother-inw Zhou were sitting in the yard talking, WenQing nestled obediently in Zhou Nan''s arms.


    After parking the bicycle against the wall, An ZhiAng went up to An JingZhi, "Dad, something happened."


    An JingZhi''s heart tightened, "What''s the matter? Where are your two uncles?"


    Zhou JianWen and Zhou JianYe stumbled in together, panting heavily.


    An ZhiAng ryed what happened at the Lin house as fast as he could. Zhou Nan listened with great fear, reflexively asking, "With such things happening at the Lin house, why didn''t you bring MeiYun back?"


    When asking this, Zhou Nan looked at ZhiXia reflexively. Although ZhiXia''s expression was still calm, she felt somewhat guilty in her heart.


    An ZhiAng was even more angry, for the first time yelling at Zhou Nan, "An MeiYun, An MeiYun, she''s all you care about. Do you know what An MeiYun did today?"


    "Their table of men wanted to get ZhiXia and the other bride Wang Li drunk and take advantage of them. Fortunately the matter with the Lin house happened in between. Wang Li pretended to pass out halfway, and heard from An MeiYun''s own mouth discussing this with the other men." As An ZhiAng spoke, his eyes welled up.


    An JingZhi was very shocked, "ZhiAng, you''re speaking the truth?"


    It seemed everything was clear, An MeiYun''s insistence for ZhiXia to be married came to mind repeatedly.


    "If you don''t believe me go ask Wang Li. She is An MeiYun''s ssmate, we only met today. She wouldn''t lie for me and ZhiXia," said An ZhiAng. "The most serious thing now isn''t this matter, but the things found when searching the Lin house. The gold, silver, jewels could be exined as ancestral heirlooms, but those guns aren''t something ordinary families can get. As the Lin family''s rtive, dad should hurry and think of how to protect our own family!"


    An ZhiAng had heard from grandma that they were a rich family before liberation, but it took a lot of effort for them to get two old rifles to protect the house.


    What was the Lin family''s background? If not for An MeiYun''s marriage, they wouldn''t even know the Lin family existed, how could they get so many guns?


    It was still normal for ordinary families to have old rifles and hunting guns now, butrge quantities were clearly abnormal.


    "That''s right, their family might...also have special agent connections," said An ZhiAng, giving ZhiXia aplicated look. He didn''t know if ZhiXia was speaking the truth or just fabricating things to frame the Lin family, but it couldn''t hurt to say it now.


    If only they''d known earlier to be wary.


    Even someone as experienced as An JingZhi couldn''t help being frightened, swallowing and saying without hesitation, "ZhiAng, go to your grandpa immediately and exin everything clearly and in detail, not a single word less. I''ll go to the news office to post an announcement right away..."


    After so many years, An JingZhi still felt some heartache saying these words, "We have to make our stand clear. With the Lin family done for, put her registration in the Gao family. "


    Choose the lesser of two harms. He couldn''t put the whole family at risk for An MeiYun''s sake.


    Moreover, they had already decided to sever ties.

 Chapter 72: Did You Miscalculate

    <h4>Chapter 72</h4>


    An ZhiAng hurriedly said, "Didn''t I go to the newspaper office yesterday afternoon to announce the severing of ties? Why wasn''t today''s newspaper delivered?"


    An JingZhi ran to the door without saying a word to fetch the newspaper. Their family had subscribed to the newspaper for years, but today had been so busy that the newspaper delivered this morning was still sitting in the mailbox.


    An JingZhi took out the newspaper and immediately saw the biggest headline on the front page, very eye-catching.


    Also, after all, extra money had been spent to make it bigger than the usual headlines.


    First it gave a detailed ount of the Gao family��s baby swap, then exined that the An family��s benevolence and righteousness had prevailed, and they would only sever ties with Gao MeiYun until she got married, in consideration of their years of raising her.


    That��s right, she would be Gao MeiYun from now on, and have nothing more to do with the An family.


    An JingZhi heaved a long sigh, newspaper in hand, and walked into the yard, feeling a bit calmer. "ZhiAng,e with me to see your grandfather."


    This time, he truly admitted that he was no match for his father, nor for his own father, and in the future, he might even be no match for his son.


    The more he thought about it, the older gentleman and his sons had all advised him to let go of what he should let go. It was just him and his wife who kept trying to have it both ways.


    After everyone had left, ZhiXi went to her room.


    Old Madam Zhou pinched Zhou Nan��s arm in frustration, "Didn''t you hear what ZhiAng said? ZhiXi was wronged today. You''re her mother, shouldn''t you gofort her?"


    Zhou Nan sighed, "Mom, I know."


    She got up and walked inside, but her mind kept reying ZhiXi''s expression just now.


    It made her feel empty inside.


    To be honest, she had never known how to face this biological daughter.


    After all, ZhiXi had already been this old when she came back, seldom talked, and never made any demands even when shecked something.


    She didn''t dare ask about her previous life either, afraid to hurt her again.


    She wanted to get close to her, but always failed to find a way.


    On top of that, there was MeiYun''s involvement, and their mother-daughter rtionship now seemed less intimate than when ZhiXi first came back.


    This time ZhiXi hadn''t locked the door, but Zhou Nan still knocked before entering.


    As soon as she entered, she saw ZhiXi tidying up her clothes.


    Her heart skipped a beat. "ZhiXi, your father has decided to sever ties with MeiYun, you heard it too, right?"


    ZhiXi nodded with a smile. "I''m starting work tomorrow, and I still need to go to the literacy ss. After walking so much today, my ankles are a little sore again, so I want to stay with Grandpa and Grandma for a few days. It''s closer there, convenient for me, and I can keep thempany too."


    Zhou Nan''s face looked a little better then. "Alright, go wherever you want. Things have been uneasy at home recently, take care of yourself."


    Zhou Nan thought ZhiXi was only going to stay with her grandparents for a couple of days. After all, it was highly unlikely that MeiYun would being back now that ZhiXi had achieved her goal, so there was no need for her to throw more tantrums.


    But she didn''t know ZhiXi wouldn''t being back.


    She never returned topete with Gao MeiYun for parental love.


    She only wanted to prevent the An family from copsing again.


    Perhaps when she first came back, she did harbor fantasies about her parents'' love, but repeated disappointments had long worn those fantasies away.


    Adrift for 100 years, she had seen far too much. Other than her obsession with Gao MeiYun, she didn''t seem to have anything else worth clinging to.


    On careful thought, she and An MeiYun were probably the ones who understood each other best.


    The difference was that An MeiYun understood her as she used to be, long gone, which was why she had missed the mark and ruined everything.


    In her previous life, she too had known nothing, only to be murdered and mutted.


    ZhiXi walked out the door, not lugging therge suitcase as it felt cumbersome.


    The winter clothes were all in her space, and the bundle on her back was just token packing of a couple items.


    By the time she arrived, the front gate of the house was shut tight.


    She called for Madam Zhou to open the door, but out came Old Madam instead.


    "Your grandpa is discussing things with them, and just gave Xiaozhou time off to go back first. Why did youe too?" Old Madam opened the door and saw the bundle ZhiXi was holding. "Did your mom get muddled again?"


    ZhiXi burst outughing, "No, I just missed Granny so I came to see you, and want to stay with you for a couple days. Granny wouldn''t chase me away, would she?"


    "Listen to you, Granny wishes you would live here all the time!" Old Madam red at her, then said worriedly, "They''re all talking in the study, things I can''t make heads or tails of either. Us womenfolk won''t go bother them. You must be tired running around half the day, no?"


    "I know, I''ll go put my stuff away." ZhiXi headed inside.


    An JingZhi and An ZhiAng didn''t stay long, because after settling everything, they still had other arrangements to make.


    On their way out, they learned from Old Madam that ZhiXi hade over. An ZhiAng said, "ZhiXi had some wine at lunch. Please keep an eye on her, Granny. I''lle by after I finish up."


    Old Madam thought back and felt ZhiXi had seemed perfectly normal when she left, unlike someone who''d been drinking. But An ZhiAng was already gone, so she had no chance to ask more.


    Turning around, she asked Old Master, "Old man, what do you make of it?"


    "This matter, hmmm, half good half bad. Just happened to provide an opportunity for JingZhi and his wife to give up their fondness for the girl." Old Master said, "Don''t you worry either. Our family has weathered winds and rains over the years, this little thing is nothing. The airne donation voucher is still on the living room disy for all to see. Anyone looking to make trouble will get theireuppance."


    "I''m not worried at all. I''ve lived a full life at my age. If worsees to worst, I''ll just go all in."


    Old Madam had barely finished speaking when they were visited by some people.


    Since Old Master was a meritorious veteran, the visitors were rtively courteous, only saying they wanted them to review some matters, and even sent a car.


    Before leaving, Old Madam was still reassuring ZhiXi, "ZhiXi, don''t be scared, they just want to ask some questions. We''ll be back before long. Go find your Grandpa Pei and tell him what''s happening. He''ll understand."


    ZhiXi scrambled in a panic all the way to the Pei residence. She worried the whole way whether she had been too reckless.


    Old Master and Old Madam were so advanced in years. If anything went wrong because of her, she would never forgive herself even in death.


    ZhiXi had run so quickly that when she got to the door, she bumped right into Pei Jing.


    Gasping for breath, she was steadied by him before standing firm again. She immediately said, "I''vee to find Grandpa Pei. My grandparents have been taken away."

 Chapter 73: A disgrace

    <h4>Chapter 73</h4>


    "Don''t worry, I''ll go find out the situation right away. It will be alright. How are you feeling?" Pei Jing looked at Zhi Xia''s pale face worriedly and asked.


    "I''m fine." Zhi Xia looked at him pleadingly, "I''ll have to trouble you with my grandparents'' matter. Thank you."


    Pei Jing nodded. He was still somewhat worried about her, since her condition was far from good. "I''ll ask Xiang Xiang to help you rest in her room first. When Ie back, you can immediately know the news."


    Afraid that she would disagree, Pei Jing said that.


    Sure enough, Zhi Xia was most concerned about the old master and old madam. "Okay, Uncle Pei please go quickly. I''ll go find Xiang Xiang myself."


    Pei Xiang was the younger daughter of the second branch of the Pei family, one year younger than Zhi Xia. The two had met several times before.


    Afraid that she would feel embarrasseding to the house, Pei Jing had called out Pei Xiang to instruct her to take care of Zhi Xia before leaving.


    After greeting Old Pei, Pei Xiang supported Zhi Xia back to the room and even poured her a ss of water.


    "Thank you." She was quite ufortable at this time, so she didn''t reject Pei Xiang''s care.


    "You''re wee, are you alright? Do you want me to take you to the hospital?" Pei Xiang asked.


    Zhi Xia shook her head. "No need, I was probably too anxious. I''ll be fine after resting for a while."


    Pei Xiang didn''t force her either, she just exhorted her, "Then lie down and sleep on my bed for a while. If you really feel ufortable, call me. But don''t force yourself to endure it."


    Pei Xiang''s kindness made the turmoil in Zhi Xia''s heart fade a little. She smiled and responded.


    Lying on the soft bed, Zhi Xia actually fell asleep.


    In a daze, it seemed that someone was talking to her. She opened her eyes and saw two little dumplings rushing over to call her mother.


    Zhi Xia was just about to reach out to pick up the little dumplings when they turned into nothingness the moment they fell into her arms.


    Zhi Xia shook and woke uppletely.


    Opening her eyes, she saw her grandmother sitting by the bed looking at her.


    Touching her cheek, the olddy asked, "Did you have a nightmare?"


    "No." Zhi Xia shook her head, sat up from the bed, and said joyfully, "Grandma, you''re back. Where''s Grandpa?"


    "He''s outside talking to your Grandpa Pei." The olddy knew that today''s events must have frightened Zhi Xia, so she quickly exined, "Zhi Xia, our family is fine. Don''t worry either. Your grandpa and I went to im some things, not to be called over for an interrogation."


    Seeing the olddy''s tearful eyes, Zhi Xia suddenly realized something.


    What she had known in her previous life��not long before the founding of the country, when the An family still lived in the old house, a group of bandits broke into the An house to rob them, killing her aunt whom she had never met.


    This incident had always been an unforgettable wound in the olddy''s heart.


    Later, she only heard that the group of bandits had been wiped out, and some of the An family''s lost property had been recovered, but not all.


    It seemed now that the missing ones must have been rted to the Lin family, after all their notorious "ck Dragon Mountain" name was known to all back then.


    Afraid of poking at the olddy''s heart, Zhi Xia didn''t dare to ask in detail.


    Hearing Old Pei and Grandpa talking, Zhi Xia knew she had guessed right.


    They had been invited over today to im those properties.


    The old master had been meticulous at the time, and had marked all the An family''s gold bars. This waster imitated by many wealthy families in Jin City.


    Lin Zheng must not have done any processing when he obtained these assets back then, afraid of being found out. And because of this, even though those things had been lost for over 20 years, they could still be recognized as the An family''s belongings.


    Grandpa patted the olddy''s hand and said to Old Pei, "Those properties have been lost for so many years. We didn''t expect to be able to find them back to begin with. Although it is a pleasant surprise, with the current situation, money in hand may not be a good thing. I think it''s better to donate it, at least it can leave us a good name."


    When millions worth of family wealth had all been donated years ago, he didn''t care about this little bit either.


    The olddy chimed in, "Yes, just donate it. Money stirs people''s hearts. Keeping it in hand will only cause trouble. Our family being safe and sound is the most important."


    Her eyes were red, possibly because she was thinking of the past events. She seemed to have aged a lot in that instant.


    "Donating it all? Isn''t that too wasteful?" The speaker was Wang Yue, Pei JianGuo''s mother and the eldest daughter-inw of the Pei family.


    As soon as she spoke, she was red at by her husband Pei Yong and embarrassedly lowered her head, "I''m just thinking for Zhi Xia. This child has suffered so much since she was little. It''s hard for her to finallye back. Don''t Uncle and Aunt n to leave some dowry for the child?"


    Old Pei nced at his daughter-inw imperceptibly and admonished, "Whether to leave it or not is the An family''s own business. You and I are on good terms with Uncle An, so I don''t mind bringing this up. But as a person, you still need to know your ce."


    Wang Yue broke out in a cold sweat. "Dad, why are you talking as if I''m coveting that money? I can''t even covet it! Forget it, I shouldn''t have said that. I won''t say anything more."


    The nice conversation between the three elders was ruined by Wang Yue''s blunder. No one spoke much more, only ate quietly.


    After the meal, everyone left.


    Pei Yong called Wang Yue into the room and questioned her, "What were you randomly interfering for at the dinner table just now? How the An family deals with their property is their own business and has nothing to do with you."


    Facing her own man, Wang Yue was no longer so timid. "What''s wrong with me? I just casually said a sentence because I felt it was too wasteful. I didn''t say much. Do you have to make a big fuss out of it and yell at me?"


    "In any case, you shouldn''t have said that." Pei Yong stared at Wang Yue and exhorted her once more, "Our family''s rtionship with the An family, you know very well. Dad sees Uncle An as even more important than himself. If you want to live a peaceful life, don''t have any improper thoughts."


    Pei Yong''s exhortation was well-intentioned, but he didn''t know that Wang Yue went and praised Zhi Xia to her son afterwards.


    As for her motive, it was obvious.


    She didn''t believe the An family was really so selfless as to donate all their millions of family wealth and not leave themselves a back road.


    There''s a saying that goes a broken ship still has three catties of nails. It was said before that just sweeping the cracks of those wealthy households would be enough for an ordinary family to spend a lifetime.


    So when Pei JianGuo took a liking to An MeiYun, Wang Yue didn''t object at all even though she didn''t think highly of An MeiYun. Now seeing this Zhi Xia who seemed softer and easier to manipte, she had another idea.


    When Jiang Su from the second branch returned home, she chuckled and pulled her daughter''s hand to advise her, "Xiang Xiang, you must not learn from your eldest aunt in the future. That petty look of hers is reallyughable."

 Chapter 74: All Told

    <h4>Chapter 74</h4>


    Pei Sheng nced at her and said, ��Of course big brother will speak for his wife��s matters. We shouldn��t gossip behind her back either, lest we set a bad example for the children.��


    Jiang Su was unafraid of him. ��I��m deliberately teaching my daughter this way. That saves her from being unable to tell people from ghosts like her father in the future.��


    Because of the matter with his eldest daughter going to the countryside, Pei Sheng hadpletely lost face at home. Hearing this, he could only stroke his nose and didn��t dare touch on that sore spot again.


    Pei Xiangughed aloud and asked Jiang Su, ��Mom, I just discovered earlier that Zhi Xia was sleeping in my bed and had put her quilt on top of mine. It smelled really nice. If I asked her what made it so fragrant, would others think I was coveting her things?��


    She hadn��t thought of this point earlier. But now with the matter of her aunt-inw, she instantly felt it wasn��t right. After all, she and Zhi Xia weren��t very familiar with each other yet.


    Jiang Su was very satisfied that her daughter had this line of thinking. It showed that this child didn��t like taking advantage of others. ��There��s nothing wrong with coveting another��s things. The main thing is that you can��t be stingy yourself. Reciprocal exchange between friends is called mutual benefit. As long as you grasp this degree, it��s fine.��


    Later, Jiang Su sighed with some mncholy as she asked Pei Sheng, ��Earlier I had been thinking of introducing Zhi Xia to my nephew on my mother��s side. If I had brought it up, would Dad and Uncle An think that I was also coveting their family��s wealth like my sister-inw?��


    Pei Sheng said, ��Uncle An��s family has had a lot going on recently. Zhi Xia is also still young. If you brought it up now, they might not have the mindset for it at present. This matter can only follow its own course. Talk about it again after some time has passed and this storm blows over. If you sincerely like him, first test the waters with Auntie and listen to see if they have any intention before saying anything.��


    Old Pei hade with them and was still telling the old master along the way to not take offense at his words.


    With many mouths present at home, it really wasn��t a suitable ce to talk.


    Pei Jing followed behind them. The old master had called him over.


    After entering the room and turning on the lights, they discussed matters in the living room. Zhi Xia couldn��t sit still and went back to her room.


    Her body still felt somewhat weak and her head was faintly dizzy too. Her heartbeat was also clearly somewhat elerated.


    She constantly felt as if something was about to happen, leaving her heart flustered and upset.


    She thought back to the dream from the afternoon when she had entered the system space and used five test strips all at once.


    The waiting time was long. Just a few dozen seconds, yet Zhi Xia felt as if it had been a whole century.


    Her eyes remained fixed tightly on them, watching as they went from one line to two lines. Her heart, which had originally been chaotic and uneasy, instantly calmed down.


    She couldn��t exin her current emotions, nor did she know if their arrival would make her happy.


    It was as if her brain had gonepletely nk all of a sudden, unable to think anything through.


    She calmly threw the test strips into the trash can. Taking a long breath, she discovered that the post-apocalyptic ne had sent over the scar removal ointment she wanted.


    Clicking to receive it and take it out, she finally exited the system space.


    The door was knocked and she hurriedly opened it to see the old madam standing outside.


    ��Why did you lock the door?��


    ��I was about to change clothes just now.�� Zhi Xia gave an excuse in response. ��Oh right, did you finish talking? Did Father Pei and Uncle Pei leave?��


    ��Not yet. They��re drinking tea in the living room. Granny was worried about you so came to see how you were doing. Are you still feeling unwell? Do you need to go to the hospital for a look?��


    Zhi Xia said, ��No need to go to the hospital. I was just too timid today and frightened. Now that you and Grandfather have returned, I''m naturally fine too.��


    ��That��s good as long as you��re alright. If you feel ufortable at all, hurry and call for me.�� The old madam said worriedly, ��Tomorrow your fourth brother will leave. I had been thinking of getting some things for him this afternoon, but in the end nothing was aplished today.��


    Seeing that Zhi Xia was fine, the old madam stopped worrying. But it left Zhi Xia full of worries.


    Having an illegitimate child was definitely unrealistic in this era.


    Yet she had already rejected him twice. How could she now open her mouth again to ask him to take responsibility?


    What''s more, the party at fault in this matter was her. This really was a vexing issue!


    In the living room, the old master saw the old madam return and asked her, ��How is Zhi Xia?��


    ��She said she��s fine. I told her to go to the hospital but she refused. She also doesn��t look ufortable anymore, just somewhat pale still.�� The old madam said, ��The child was frightened today, but she��s also alright now. You keep talking, I won��t interrupt.��


    Pei Jing looked in the direction of Zhi Xia��s room. The room was in the back so he couldn��t actually see anything.


    Yet coincidentally, Zhi Xia happened toe out holding a washbasin, her bright eyes staring straight at him unflinchingly.


    In the instant their eyes met, Pei Jing knew she had something to say to him.


    ��I��m going to the restroom.�� Pei Jing said as he stood up and walked outside.


    By the sink, Zhi Xia didn��t know if Pei Jing had understood her meaning. She had pumped the well full of water but he still hadn��t reacted.


    Pei Jing walked up to her, looking at her somewhat puzzled. ��Did you have something to tell me?��


    Only then did Zhi Xia stop what she was doing. Hesitating a bit, she nodded.


    Pei Jing raised a brow, signaling for her to continue speaking.


    But Zhi Xia was very hesitant. She simply asked him directly, ��Um...do you still stand by what you said about marrying me?��


    Pei Jing instantly grasped that something was off from her words. ��Of course I stand by it. What��s...wrong?��


    Upon hearing that he stood by it, Zhi Xia still felt relieved inside.


    ��I��m pregnant.�� Zhi Xia looked up, her eyes fixed tightly on his expression.


    It was like a bolt from the blue. Even someone mentally strong like Pei Jing was quite shocked for a long time before reacting.


    He turned his head to nce inside the room. No one had noticed them. The two people who were supposed to be going to the restroom and washing up were currently talking in the yard.


    Pei Jing looked at Zhi Xia again. ��Are you feeling alright physically? Has it affected you at all?��


    What he actually wanted to ask more was how Zhi Xia knew she was pregnant. But before the words left his mouth, he realized how stupid it would sound to ask that.


    ��No impact so far.�� Zhi Xia was also keeping an eye on the movement in the living room. She said to Pei Jing, ��Let��s go talk in the kitchen.��


    The yard was also unsafe. No one knew if the three elders might suddenlye out.


    After Zhi Xia spoke, she headed to the kitchen. Pei Jing followed along without objection.


    After entering the unlit kitchen, it was even darker than outside. They couldn''t make out each other''s expressions.


    Zhi Xia said, ��I��m telling you this matter not to coerce you into anything. Our situation was an ident to begin with. If we really investigate culpability, the mistake lies with me. If it��s inconvenient for you, you don��t need to be responsible for me either. I can figure it out myself.��


    Figure it out how? Get an abortion?


    Other than that, Pei Jing really couldn��t think of any other solution she had.


    A surge of anger suddenly welled up in his heart, but considering Zhi Xia��s circumstances, he forcibly suppressed it. ��Zhi Xia, I said I would take responsibility. I currently have no partner or any other obligations. Don��t act rashly either. Getting an abortion is very dangerous and also greatly damages the body. It��s not something you can aplish unnoticed either. Listen to me, let me handle this properly, okay?��

 Chapter 75: Mayday

    <h4>Chapter 75</h4>


    Pei Jing had always had a steady temperament, but now his voice carried a rare urgency.


    This urgency, when it fell on Zhi Xia''s heart, gave her an added sense of reassurance.


    At the very least, it meant he cared, and that was a good start.


    "I''ll listen to you," Zhi Xia nodded.


    At the same time, Pei Jing also breathed a sigh of relief, "The elders in both families will inevitably find out about this, and I only have five more days of leave, so time is tight. The wedding will have to be simple."


    "It''s fine, I understand," Zhi Xia was not too concerned with formalities. Having seen much, she knew that even the grandest wedding did not guarantee marital bliss thereafter.


    Besides, she was already a month and a half along, so getting married as soon as possible was definitely best, otherwise people would talk if she had the baby before the wedding.


    "As for the pregnancy, just me it on me if the family asks," Pei Jing also considered Zhi Xia''s feelings. Although she had been wronged at the time, girls had thin skin, and he could hardly say he had nearly died on the mountain and she had pounced on him!


    Besides, talking about this would reflect badly on both of them, better to take the me himself.


    But he could not hide Zhi Xia''s taking the medicine.


    Having heard that after she returned, An''s parents had neglected Zhi Xia in favor of An MeiYun, making her suffer, it was best to let them know of their daughter''s hardship.


    Pei Jing swiftly made arrangements in his mind, not noticing that Zhi Xia was staring at him intently, "It''s my fault, is it really okay to me it all on you?"


    "I''m a man, it''s no big deal, and only our families will know, it won''t spread." Pei Jing still had great trust in the elders of both families.


    Having said this, he hesitated, then added: "If you have no objections, let''s register the marriage tomorrow?"


    Not only was Zhi Xia worried about the pregnancy, Pei Jing was too.


    Getting it settled early, even if the birth was a month or two premature, it could still be fudged, but leaving it toote would be problematic.


    Since she was so sincere, Zhi Xia naturally had no objections.


    Pei Jing added: "I''lle get you when I''ve got it sorted out tomorrow."


    He didn''t set a specific time, because as a military marriage he would normally need to file a report first and go throughyers of approval.


    But it was urgent now, no more dys could be borne, he could only go back first to discuss with Grandfather, and get Grandfather to pull some strings to hurry up the formalities.


    The three elders were still talking about the troubles An MeiYun had brought,pletely unaware that no sooner had one storm passed than another was brewing.


    At this critical juncture, Zhi Xia''s side had also run into trouble.


    But this matter could be seen as a good or bad thing, depending on perspective. It was happy news, after all.


    Old Pei was about to leave when he realized Pei Jing still hadn''t returned from the bathroom.


    Standing in the living room doorway, Old Pei called out loudly, "Pei Jing, are you done yet?"


    What was taking this grown man so long in the bathroom, he couldn''t help grumbling inwardly.


    "I''ll go out first, youe outter," Pei Jing lowered his voice and said to Zhi Xia, then promptly turned and left the kitchen.


    Once outside, Old Pei still wondered, "Why did you go to their kitchen to use the bathroom?"


    Although the two families were very close, running off to someone else''s kitchente at night when it wasn''t mealtime was still inappropriate, people might think he was up to no good.


    Pei Jing looked at Old Pei''s expression and evaded the question, "Dad, I want to get married."


    "Oh, wonderful news! Which family''s daughter? What''s her name? How long have you been seeing each other?" After all, Pei Jing was not young, and Old Pei had urged him to marry again and again over the years. It was his ownck of interest that had put a stop to it.


    Now that Pei Jing had brought it up himself, Old Pei could only be delighted, "You''re always so aloof, suddenly wanting to get married, and didn''t even give the family a heads up about dating someone. And here I was, racking my brains trying to find a match for you!"


    "It''s the girl you just met, Zhi Xia," Pei Jing stopped in front of Old Pei, watching as his smiling face grew somber.


    Indeed, when Pei Jing uttered Zhi Xia''s name, Old Pei''s heart lurched as if a string had snapped, "Pei Jing, she''s a nice girl, but don''t forget, she should call you uncle."


    That his own son was interested in a junior gave Old Pei a burning shame.


    "She''s pregnant, the child is mine."


    Old Pei stumbled, nearly falling over.


    pping away Pei Jing''s supporting hand, his voice even trembled a little, "Come inside, we''ll talk in the room."


    Though they were right outside their front door, walls have ears. They both understood this reasoning.


    Pei Jing was also afraid of shocking the old man, which was why he had chosen to break the news gradually.


    ......


    It took Pei Jing a long time to return, and Zhi Xia finally emerged from the kitchen.


    Entering the living room, the old master and mistress had already finished their discussion, and the old mistress smiled and chatted with her when she came in.


    Seeing her obvious fatigue yet still caring about them, Zhi Xia suddenly felt very guilty.


    Since her return, she had received the most care and concern from Fourth Brother and the two elders, yet when something happened she didn''t dare confide in them immediately, which was rather improper.


    Zhi Xia couldn''t say whether it was worry or fear.


    Afraid they would see her as frivolous and withdraw their hard-earned care and affection after learning the truth.


    She opened her mouth but still didn''t know where to start.


    So she backed down again.


    Pei Jing said he would handle it, so...she would wait and see.


    Maybe he had a better solution, if she interfered recklessly she might disrupt his ns.


    Back in her room, Zhi Xia was filled with unease.


    Good friends from the martial arts world messaged her, but she was in no mood to respond, declining their overtures for the first time.


    Fourth Brother was leaving tomorrow, and she had prepared some things to give him, but had forgotten to mention it to Pei Jing earlier.


    But on second thought, registering their marriage probably wouldn''t take a whole day.


    As she took out the things for An ZhiAng, she heard an urgent voice from outside, "Grandpa An, Grandma An, my grandpa is beating my uncle at home, please go take a look!"


    Pei Xiang had been sent by her parents to plead for help.


    Having grown up alone with his mother since his father and brothers were not around, Pei Jing had a steady, mature personality that required no worry from others, so Old Pei felt a trace of guilt towards this younger son and doted on him very much.


    This was the first time he had beaten someone so severely that no one could persuade him to stop.


    "Oh dear, they were fine just now when I went home, how did these two suddenlye to blows?" the old mistress eximed, and quickly called for the old master, "Men and their pride, I won''t go, you hurry over to see what''s going on, calm Old Pei down. The child is returning to his troop soon, his wounds haven''t fully healed yet, don''t let him get beat up badly!"

 Chapter 76: Saving Her Face

    <h4>Chapter 76</h4>


    When Zhi Xia heard these words in the room, she saw Old Master had already hurriedly followed Pei Xiang out the door.


    Worried, she wanted to follow them outside, but was grabbed by Old Madam, ��Zhi Xia, you��re not well, don��t go. Anyway, there is no hatred between father and son overnight. Your grandpa will go persuade them for a bit, and your Pei Grandpa will calm down soon."


    Zhi Xia couldn''t find a reason she had to go either, but she guessed in her heart that Pei Jing was probably beaten because of her.


    She looked at Old Madam and finally felt she should confess.


    Even if Pei Jing was willing to take responsibility, this was still both of their fault, and he shouldn''t take it alone.


    "Granny, if I did something wrong, would you not want me anymore?" Zhi Xia asked.


    "You silly girl, what nonsense are you talking about? You''re granny''s darling, no matter what time, granny will never not want you." Although the child hadn''t been back for long, she had already seen clearly what kind of temperament she had.


    In Old Madam''s eyes, even if she did something wrong by ident, it might not necessarily be her fault. Even if it was her fault, it might not be unforgivable.


    No one can live a lifetime without making a single mistake. As long as one can admit their wrongs and change, it''s not a big deal.


    Zhi Xia told Old Madam about being drugged and running away the day she was sold, and meeting Pei Jing in the mountains.


    After she finished speaking, she finally felt calm in her heart, and was no longer anxiously ufortable.


    Old Madam was silent for a long time before suddenly standing up and saying, "Zhi Xia, even if things were like this, it''s not appropriate for you to go over now. Listen, go back and rest first. Granny is going to the Pei''s. Knowing your Pei Grandpa''s temper, I''m afraid he didn''t go easy. I have to hurry and persuade him."


    As Zhi Xia watched her turn away, she couldn''t see the already red rims of her eyes.


    Zhi Xia sat in the living room waiting for a long time until Old Master and Old Madam finally came back together.


    Seeing Zhi Xia still waiting for them with a worried look, Old Madam came over and hugged her distressingly, "My child, you''ve suffered these years. Our family let you down. If we had been more careful back then, we wouldn''t have lost you..."


    "Granny, as long as I have you and grandpa caring for me, I''m not suffering." Zhi Xia''s throat went dry. She asked, "Pei Jing...is he okay? Was Pei Grandpa very angry?"


    "No, no, don''t think too much. Granny already exined everything clearly to them. Neither of you are to me for this." Old Madam sniffled, "Your Pei Grandpa hit him because he misunderstood that he took advantage of you. Now that it''s rified, it''s fine. We should be d, d that the person you met that day was him - at least he''s someone we''re familiar with. Pei Jing is a good boy, reliable. If you had met someone with ulterior motives..."


    Old Madam covered her mouth in horror, just the thought was frightening.


    Old Master also felt distressed about Zhi Xia''s experience, but unlike his sentimental wife, he couldn''t say warm, caring words. He could only sit and listen to the mother and daughter chat.


    Old Madam chatted on and on. Since Zhi Xia''s pregnancy couldn''t be dyed, and remembering her worryingly pale face this morning, she was also afraid something might happen, so she told her to go back and rest immediately.


    The lights in the living room stayed on untilte into the night. In her room, Zhi Xia still hadn''t fallen asleep.


    In the middle of the night, Old Madam pushed open Zhi Xia''s door and walked in. Seeing she still had her eyes open, she said, "Zhi Xia, granny will sleep with you tonight, okay?"


    Knowing she probably had something to discuss, Zhi Xia nodded, "Okay."


    She moved inward to make room for Old Madam to sleep on the outside.


    Once in bed, the mother and daughter together had a special warmth.


    "Zhi Xia, granny wants to ask you something. Tell granny the truth."


    Zhi Xia guessed she was asking about her and Pei Jing. "Granny, go ahead and ask."


    "If...granny means if...you hadn''t discovered you were pregnant, and it was just about Pei Jing alone, would you have liked him?"


    She was also worried that if the two children married for the sake of the child, but their feelings weren''t deep in the future, their days would be miserable.


    Pei Jing''s aloof personality had been like that since he was little. That kind of temperament was fine for simply living life, but he probably wouldn''t be good at pampering a wife.


    And considering all Zhi Xia had suffered, it was very normal for her to be psychologically sensitive. She was afraid that in the future, one would be cold and the other sensitive, and they wouldn''t get along. What would they do?


    "To be honest, I don''t know." Zhi Xia guessed Old Madam''s concerns that she wouldn''t have a good future. She wanted to simply lie that she liked Pei Jing''s type, but she thought that Old Madam had lived a lifetime, how could she not see through her little attempt. It would be morefortable to be truthful. "Granny, before this, Pei Jing and I didn''t have much contact. He did look for me twice insisting to take responsibility, but it was my fault to begin with and I didn''t want to implicate others, so I refused him. If I told you I liked him, I don''t think you''d believe me. But since I agreed to marry him, I will hold the intention to spend my days well with him. I believe he''s not the fickle type either, right?"


    "Granny does still believe in him about this." Old Madam asked Zhi Xia, "Do you know what he said?"


    Zhi Xia widened her eyes looking at Old Madam. She really didn''t know.


    "He said that day on the mountain, when he came across you gathering medicine, he couldn''t help his desires..." Old Madam smiled and said, "That child is pretty responsible. But we''re quite familiar with his personality. That day when he was saved and brought back, he was injured very severely and was unconscious for days before waking up. In that kind of condition, even if he had desires, I reckon he was powerless, no?"


    Zhi Xia''s face turned beet red as she smiled awkwardly.


    Thinking back on their first meeting that day, whether he had desires or not she didn''t know, but being powerless was certainly true.


    Theter powerfulness was probably incited by her goading.


    It was quite surprising that a casual detoxification unexpectedly scored a direct hit.


    Recalling the pregnancy dream she had that afternoon, it was still twins. She didn''t know if it was real or fake.


    With the current undeveloped medicine, people''s views on male-female rtions weren''t so open yet. She didn''t dare go to the hospital for confirmation either.


    "Your Pei Grandpa isn''t stupid. In his fluster earlier, he didn''t think through this point. Now that he has, he deliberately put on that act for me and your grandpa!" Old Madam thought about how remorseful Old Pei looked after she went, and said, "Old Pei and your grandpa''s rtionship isn''t that of blood brothers, but it exceeds blood brothers. Especially when your grandfather was alive, he came to our home no small number of times to raise military funds. Half of our family''s property was tricked away by him. Afterwards, this rtionship was established. Although Pei Jing is young in years, his seniority is a generation above you. Yet now, he''s let you get pregnant before marriage. No matter whose fault it is, he''s still taking the me onto himself for old times'' sake, to protect our face. So in the future when you''re in their home, you don''t need to worry about being bullied. As long as your grandparents are still around, no one will dare!"


    Old Madam talked a lot, a lot that night. These premarital teachings were originally Zhou Nan''s job, but Old Madam wasn''t assured leaving it to her. She could only take it onto herself.

 Chapter 77: Farewell

    <h4>Chapter 77</h4>


    In the dark of night, ZhiXiay in her grandmother''s arms, really feeling she was happy enough already.


    Look, there are still people who truly love and care for her.


    As for parental love, which life is ever perfect?


    Perhaps they are just that one imperfection in her life.


    Knowing contentment leads to happiness, people should be satisfied, sheforted herself in her heart.


    Before dawn had broken, the olddy was already busy getting up.


    ZhiXia had just opened her eyes when the olddy said, "Your fourth brother is leaving at noon today. I told Mrs. Zhoust night toe early to help prepare some food. Your mother has been so busy these days she probably won''t have time to make food for him."


    Going into the army, these first couple years away from home were going to be tough, new recruits couldn''te home for two years, and there was intense training too. Thinking about it made the olddy''s heart ache unbearably.


    But unlike Zhou Nan, the olddy was broad-minded, and understood that she couldn''t selfishly dy her child''s future.


    "Thesest few days I also prepared some snacks and things to eat for fourth brother," ZhiXia also got up with her, "Don''t worry grandmother, I''ll go help Mrs. Zhou make food. You were up sotest night you didn''t rest much, you should sleep a little longer."


    "ZhiXia, if anyone needs more rest it''s you. And your belly..." the olddy anxiously and carefully asked her, "You''re really alright? Don''t force yourself child. Remember, your third brother is a doctor. Our family might not have much, but we do have some connections at the hospital."


    "I''m really fine. And more than anyone, I cherish my own life. If anything happens I definitely won''t hide it from you all," ZhiXia said.


    The olddy also couldn''t fall back asleep, so the two of them just got up.


    ZhiXia knew her grandmother had never once set foot in a kitchen, she didn''t n on making her work at all.


    The olddy knew her ownck of cooking skills, she didn''t want to torture her grandson''s stomach either. She just watched from the side, telling ZhiXia, "There''s fine wheat flour in the cab, use as much as you need, no need to save it. Your fourth brother has a big appetite, make more for him to bring."


    "Okay." ZhiXia certainly wouldn''t stand on ceremony, she reached in and took out the small amount of wheat flour from the cab.


    The An Family''s life was a little better off, everyone had pretty good sries and benefits, but their daily staple was still steamed buns made from coarse wheat flour. Only once in awhile did they use fine flour to improve their meals.


    In this era, no one was well off, even those who were well off didn''t dare spend money openly, mostly they hid away their assets afraid of others finding out.


    And buying grain wasn''t so easy either. Because of the shortage of goods, each person only had a small ration every month. To buy more you not only needed money but ration tickets, and a grain registration card and side dish registration card. Trying to buy more through official channels wasn''t realistic.


    She''d heard her fourth brother would spend two or three days on the train. She had to make food that was not just enough to eat, but could keep.


    ZhiXia nned to make two kinds of tbread, pan-fried buns and longsting dried crackers that were a staple travel food at this time, and didn''t spoil easily.


    She also had pickled cucumbers and spiced beef sauce prepared in her room. Rolled up with some vegetables in the tbread, there was enough for one day''s portions. The next two days he would just have to make do with the dried crackers and beef sauce.


    Actually, she had also made some crispy biscuits in her room too. But without an oven in the house, she didn''t dare let the olddy know.


    As for her fourth brother, when he got on the train and discovered these things, he would probably just assume ZhiXia had bought them.


    The olddy watched ZhiXia knead the dough, using hot water, then cold water, and adding oil. She realized this was quite an eye-opener.


    Even back when they had the big kitchen and chef, he didn''t make suchplex dishes did he?


    "ZhiXia, who taught you these cooking skills?" the olddy asked her.


    "No one really taught me. I just figured it out myself over time," ZhiXia could only lie to her grandmother. "I was often hungry in the past, and when I was hungry I would think of all kinds of delicious foods, and figure out in my mind how to make them taste good."


    The olddy''s eyes flickered slightly, "Oh."


    Actually, deep down she didn''t quite believe it.


    Seeing how skilled ZhiXia was, it didn''t seem like her first time making these foods.


    And she knew what conditions were like in the countryside. Their staple foods were mostly coarse wheat noodles. The Gaos weren''t a wealthy family either. Seeing the Gaos were willing to make the child swap, their personal characters meant the family food was unlikely to be that good.


    Some people had talent in certain areas, that she believed. But no matter how good someone''s talent, it was impossible to be born already knowing foods she had never even seen before.


    This was also why ZhiXia had a trove of knowledge, yet never revealed anything different in front of her family.


    Like how many books wrote of female leads getting things from the ck market, or buying things from shops, much of it wasn''t realistic.


    The An family''s circumstances weren''t so dire that the children needed to take risks going to the ck market. Such ces did exist, but mostly only people in utter desperation would go take that risk.


    In the age of ration tickets, you needed tickets to buy anything. Like that time Zhou Nan used up the whole family''s fabric ration tickets to buy ZhiXia two sets of clothes.


    As for preparing a dowry for Gao Meiyunter, she probably went to trade with others for those tickets.


    But she still didn''t expect the olddy''s thoughts to be so astute. She was able to guess something was different just from ZhiXia''s cooking methods.


    ZhiXia pped the tbreads out just as Mrs. Zhou arrived, still holding the vegetables and meat she had rushed to buy from the veggie stand and meat counter early that morning. "Whew, good thing I went early today. So many people buying vegetables and meat, I stood in line forever it felt like, I rushed over worried I wouldn''t make it in time to prepare for ZhiAng."


    "You came at just the right time. ZhiXia got up early this morning and has been baking tbread. Now that you bought meat, we can make some spiced shredded pork rolls," said the olddy.


    Mrs. Zhou usually just stir-fried the shredded lean meat, but ZhiXia had her marinate it first.


    Sure enough, the marinated shredded meat tasted even more fragrant and tender when stir-fried, with a nice slippery mouthfeel. After the patriarch got up he ate two pork rolls in one go before stopping.


    After breakfast, they hurriedly went out.


    Zhou Nan was still at home gathering things for ZhiAng, packing things left and right. Heined she was packing too much.


    ZhiXia and her grandparents came in from the entrance and immediately saw ZhiAng''s even more upright figure in his military uniform.


    "Fourth brother, you look so handsome in uniform!" ZhiXia said happily as she entered, "This morning grandmother and I made some food for you to eat on the way."


    Zhou Nan came over helplessly, "Perfect timing then. I finished taking care of the elders and children this morning, just in time to make him a day''s worth of food. I was worried he wouldn''t have enough to eat on the way and would have to buy food himself. He''s so picky,ter when he gets there he might find he''s missing things and it''ll be hard to buy. "


    The olddy also advised, "Your mother is right. Better safe on a long road, no harm in bringing more."


    "But I do have to be able to carry it all! You''re trying to exhaust me to death on the road with all these big and little packages," ZhiAng groaned, taking the package from ZhiXia''s hands and immediately grinning, "But I definitely have to bring what my little sister made for me, even if it kills me I can''t throw it away."


    The olddyughed at him, and stuffed some money and ration tickets into his hands. She repeatedly told him to write home often once he arrived, and to send telegrams or call if anything urgent came up.


    Seeing it was almost time, the whole family finally prepared to set out for the meeting point luggingrge and small packages.

 Chapter 78: Cultivate the Relationship First.

    <h4>Chapter 78</h4>


    The square was crowded with people seeing them off, with drums beating and gongs sounding on the other side of the street to tie big red flowers on the young men going to enlist.


    An ZhiAng had a ssmate going with him, who shamelessly dumped all his luggage onto the other, angering him and making him re with bulging eyes, saying he was too righteous!


    The elders of both families watched them bicker andughed at the side.


    Zhou Nan and Old Madam kept nagging and instructing An ZhiAng, but he just frowned impatiently.


    Seizing the chance, he pulled Zhi Xia and said, "Little sister, eldest brother is leaving now. When I get there, I''ll write you letters. Don''t forget to write back. If you have anything, tell eldest brother. With me gone, go find second and third elder brother if you need help. I talked to them for two hours yesterday and they agreed to take good care of you, so don''t be polite with them. Also, I spoke to Liu Jun, but it''s best you don''t get involved there. Dad always said they weren''t doing proper business and I feel it''s too dangerous..."


    He didn''t feel that way when he used to hang out with them, but it was different for his little sister. A girl shouldn''t be mingling with the boys, that''s like tossing meat buns into the mouth of wolves!


    But he still had to mention it, just in case his sister had some problem she couldn''t solve. Liu Jun could be a backup n.


    He thought Old Madam and Zhou Nan were too naggy with useless words, not realizing he was even more long-winded when facing Zhi Xia.


    But Zhi Xia didn''t feel impatient. Instead, she felt warm inside.


    This was the difference between growing up surrounded by love, and growing up without. But now Zhi Xia had people who loved her too. She was no longer the pitiful nobody who would die without anyone knowing.


    "Eldest brother, have I told you you''re the best, kindest big brother in the whole world?"


    Zhi Xia hugged An ZhiAng emotionally, delighting him immensely.


    "Remember what you just said forever! You must always think I''m the best big brother, and never change your mind!" An ZhiAng patted her back affectionately, feeling like he still hadn''t done enough.


    His wonderful little sister deserved to be spoiled and treasured as she grew up.


    The feelings of youth were always the most sincere. Sometimes just a sentence could be etched into the heart.


    The assembly call sounded from the front. Zhou Nan''s eyes were red as she hung things on him, telling him to hurry over there.


    An ZhiAng kept looking back as he left. Zhi Xia''s gaze remained fixed on his retreating figure.


    They wouldn''t see each other again for at least two years.


    Zhi Xia had tucked a photo of herself into his bundle. She had taken and edited it herself on the tablet, deliberately making it ck and white pixted, then printing it out.


    On the orderly tform, An ZhiAng found his seat and embarked on his own life journey.


    Only Zhi Xia knew this was the path he should have taken, without anyone interfering, sessfully getting his life back on track. The future was boundless and bright.


    All his things were stowed in the luggage area, only the bundle from Zhi Xia remained clutched in his arms.


    It still emanated residual warmth - this was food lovingly prepared by his sister. Though there was also something hard like a stick, puzzling him.


    Curious, he opened the bundle. The first thing he saw was the photo.


    An ZhiAng smiled, stowing it against his chest. His whole body felt warm and cozy.


    There were also two small jars of meat sauce and pickled cucumber, and two aluminum tiffins still hot. The stick-like oblongs turned out to be beef jerky when he took a bite.


    An ZhiAng''s eyes lit up. This was a real treat!


    But then he wondered, where did little sister get this beef jerky?


    It must be thanks to Old Master. Little sister wouldn''t have ess.


    They probably kept none for themselves, giving it all to him!


    An ZhiAng felt pained and touched. He closed the bundle and nced out the window. The train had been moving for some time, their figures long vanished, just rows of trees shing by.


    At the station, only when they werepletely out of sight did Old Madam say, "Let''s head back too. We''re tired after all that yesterday. Go home and do what you need to do."


    Then she looked at Old Master holding his great-grandson and asked, "Wen Qing can stay with granny for a couple days, okay? After you finish up in the next few days, he can go back."


    Wen Qing turned his head and hugged Zhou Nan''s neck. Zhou Nan quickly said, "I''ve nothing much to do at home now. If Mom wants the kid, let his mom take him over when she''s back this afternoon. The cut on his head still hasn''t healed. He keeps trying to scratch it these days, quite fussy."


    "It doesn''t matter if I see him or not. I just miss him and will go over myself. But you must watch him closely these few days - the itch means it''s healing, he absolutely must not scratch it." Old Madam sighed worriedly.


    Zhou Nan quickly agreed.


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment, then gave the ointment to Zhou Nan. "This is a rural folk remedy I used for injuries before. It stops itching and scarring. Apply twice a day, you can try it on Wen Qing."


    She had decanted the ointment into an unmarked bottle, originally nning to give it to Liu Ling in a couple days. She didn''t want others knowing about it, because it could still be used after the wound healed.


    But Wen Qing''s wound was itchy, and a child wouldn''t know restraint. Scratching could aggravate it, so it was best to use the ointment now.


    "Okay, I''ll try it when I get back." Zhou Nan didn''t think too much and just pocketed the medicine.


    By the time they got home, it was already noon.


    Old Madam looked at Old Master and asked, "Aren''t you going to discuss the child''s marriage with Old Pei? What about Jing Zhi''s side - how do we tell him Zhi Xia is marrying Xiao Jing?"


    "I''ll go ask Old Pei. Just get the dowry ready for the child. Focus on clothes for her to get married in first, time is tight. Discuss with Zhi Xia if she ns to follow the army or stay home. If going, then don''t prepare big items, just give the child some pocket money." Old Master hurriedly arranged, thenined, "As for Jing Zhi, what is there to say? I don''t need to report to him. That useless father,pletely useless!"


    If those two had paid a little more attention, Zhi Xia had been back a month already, so much had happened, yet they were still keptpletely in the dark!


    On reflection, if not for the pregnancy, she probably wouldn''t have told them at all!


    At this point, Old Master was irritated with Pei Jing too.


    Zhi Xia was shy as a girl, yet after recognizing her, that boy still kept silent. How intolerable!


    Old Master couldn''t bear to me his granddaughter, so could only push all me onto others. After all, when a matter came to light, someone had to take responsibility.


    Seeing his disgruntled figure, Old Madam called out, "You old fart, saying you''ll go then going, bring Zhi Xia along too! Xiao Jing is injured, isn''t he? Let Zhi Xia go see him, it''ll be good for the children to talk."


    Her main consideration was this aspect. If purely to discuss the wedding, that should be done at home with the Pei familying over.


    Men''s and women''s thoughts were different after all. Men felt marriage was just living together, with each fulfilling their own duties and responsibilities. But women were more sensitive, understanding that feelings were most important between a couple.


    The situation for these two was already awkward. And it wasn''t simply a matter of being together because of affection. As elders, they naturally had to help, to first allow the pair to nurture their feelings.

 Chapter 79: Names are a Big Problem.

    <h4>Chapter 79</h4>


    The olddy finished speaking and gestured for Zhi Xia to hurry up and follow her.


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment. The other party had been beaten because of her, and was already injured. She should go see them out of both personal affection and social propriety.


    The Pei family gate was open. The old man was a familiar face here, so he brought Zhi Xia directly inside.


    Before they even arrived, the old man''s shouts could already be heard from the gate.


    Pei JianGuo came out from the living room andughed, "Uncle An, my grandfather is waiting for you inside."


    The old man made a sound of acknowledgement. Remembering his wife''s instructions, he looked at Zhi Xia and said, "JianGuo, I have some things to discuss with your grandfather. Why don''t you take Zhi Xia to see your uncle?"


    "Alright, don''t worry sir, I will take good care of sister Zhi Xia," Pei JianGuo replied.


    The old man wanted to say they shouldn''t be calling each other brother and sister anymore, but then he thought about how convoluted the rtionships between these young ones were. The marriage discussions had only startedst night, and it was unclear if the young ones even knew yet.


    Oh well, let old Pei exin it himself, the old man thought.


    After the old man went inside, Pei JianGuo moved closer to Zhi Xia with a smile. But suddenly, the smile disappeared and was reced with a sneer. "I''m surprised, sister Zhi Xia hasn''t been back long but already knows how to seduce men."


    Zhi Xia immediately sensed the maliceing from him and took two steps back to keep her distance. Her eyes turned cold. "I''m also surprised that someone as kind as grandfather Pei could raise such an ill-mannered grandson with vicious words."


    She could guess what happened. At theirst meeting, he didn''t harbor this much malice and his words of looking out for her carried sincerity. But now, in just a short time, he had changed. Gao Meiyun must have had a hand in this.


    It was just as well. In herst life, she had learned some things from Gao Meiyun, so she never intended to get too close with Pei''s main family anyway.


    Even if she married Pei Jing in the future, they would have nothing more than courtesy between inws at most.


    She didn''t expect that before even reaching that point, the other side would already bare their malice.


    "Am I wrong?" Pei JianGuo said coldly. "First auntie wanted to introduce you to a cousin, and my mom kept telling me to get closer to you. But now you''re going to marry my uncle who''s a whole 8 years older than you and one generation above. Aren''t you ashamed? In just one month, your ambition is really something."


    Meiyun was right. This Zhi Xia went through a lot of trouble toe back from the countryside. Her intentions are clearly not pure.


    It turned out to be true. After she came back, Meiyun was first sent down to the countryside. Then she was forced to marry Lin Hao. I just didn''t expect the Lin family to have this kind of incident.


    In hindsight, Pei JianGuo regretted that if he had known earlier how miserably Zhi Xia had forced Meiyun, he would not have let her end up marrying someone like Lin Hao even if his mother disagreed to him marrying Meiyun.


    What an unpredictable world, he thought. Just today, he broke his leg over Meiyun''s matter but didn''t even get to see the enemy, so it''s no wonder he felt so annoyed.


    Unfortunately, he took out his anger on the wrong person.


    Zhi Xia raised her hand and pped him across the face.


    "An Zhi Xia!" Pei JianGuo''s expression grew increasingly livid as he clenched his fist in anger.


    Zhi Xia knew she was no match for him and had no intention of fighting back. After pping him, she turned and ran into the Pei''s living room.


    "Grandpa,e quick and save me!"


    Zhi Xia''s panicked voice shocked the two old men. They hurriedly got up.


    By now, Zhi Xia had run over to them. "Grandpa, hurry and save me. Pei JianGuo wants to hit me."


    Now that she had elders on her side, she was no longer the helpless victim who silently endured bullying. How could she just let herself be bullied again? She felt no guilt about tattling whatsoever.


    Outside in the living room, when Pei JianGuo heard Zhi Xia''s words, his already furious face darkened even more. He strode in angrily, "An Zhi Xia, do you have no shame? Who hit who exactly?"


    The p mark on his face was still distinct. Luckily his skin was good, so the evidence was clear.


    Of course, the old man also saw the p mark on Pei JianGuo''s face, but he didn''t rush to me Zhi Xia. Instead, he asked her, "Zhi Xia, what happened?"


    "Just now, he told me to go find Pei Jing...but when you went inside, he immediately said I was seducing people and something about his mom telling him to get close to me, things I don''t even know about since we''ve barely talked. Isn''t that deliberately insulting me? And also, he said Pei Jing is a whole generation above me and that I''m shameless."


    Zhi Xia blinked, looking more and more wronged.


    "Did you say that?"


    With just one line from the old man Pei, Pei JianGuo''s face instantly paled.


    Of course he had said those words. He wasn''t some wimp who didn''t dare admit what came out of his mouth.


    "It''s true I wanted to marry Meiyun but my mom didn''t agree. If you didn''t deliberately act in front of my mom, how could she have possibly said to get close to you?"


    Pei JianGuo had just nodded when the old man Pei scolded, "Pei JianGuo, I had you read books and write since you were little. Did it all go to the dog''s stomach? What your mom told you to do, what does it have to do with Zhi Xia? Did Zhi Xia deliberately run in front of you to show off?"


    Pei JianGuo had feared old man Pei since he was little. Now seeing his anger re up, he was instantly frightened. "Grandpa, I was wrong."


    He just wanted to vent about things behind their backs. He never thought it would escte to the two old men. Now he had lost all face.


    "Get out!" Old man Pei waved his hand. His mind was already decided.


    Just a few days ago, second uncle had suggested moving out. The children had all grown up now. Having so many people with different thoughts all together everyday really wasn''t good. Might as well have them move out and get some peace and quiet.


    Pei JianGuo didn''t expect that he just wanted to boast some empty threats to get revenge for Meiyun, but it ended up causing old man Pei to consider splitting up the family.


    Old man Pei didn''t even have the face to look at the other old man''s expression. Just a moment ago, he had guaranteed that Zhi Xia would absolutely not be bullied once she joined their family. Yet the very next second, his face was pped.


    Seeing old man Pei''s distressed appearance, Zhi Xia did not regret tattling.


    If Pei JianGuo dared to cause trouble, why shouldn''t she protect herself?


    "Zhi Xia, today''s matter is all JianGuo''s fault. I will teach him a lesson when his parents get back. Don''t worry, in the future when you join our family, I definitely won''t let anyone bully you," old man Pei suddenly felt that the issue of how to address her was a huge problem.


    He called for the housekeeper and had her take Zhi Xia to find Pei Jing.


    Zhi Xia had just left the living room when she saw Pei Jing and Pei JianGuo talking by the side door. She didn''t know what they were discussing.


    Pei Jing stood tall and straight, looking very dignified and authoritative, while Pei JianGuo seemed much inferior inparison.


    If they weren''t side by side, Pei JianGuo would still seem quite handsome. Butpared to Pei Jing''s outstanding looks and bearing, he didn''t seem to have any advantages besides slightly fairer skin.

 Chapter 80: Obtaining the License

    <h4>Chapter 80</h4>


    Pei Jing also saw Zhi Xia and waved to her toe over.


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment. With Pei Jing around, Pei JianGuo probably wouldn''t dare hit her, so she slowly walked over.


    She cunningly stood a step behind Pei Jing to be able to quickly hide behind him if the other party tried to attack her.


    But as soon as she got into position, she heard Pei Jing say to Pei JianGuo, "What are you still standing there for? Have you forgotten what I just told you? From now on, she is your auntie. Don''t you know to respect your elders?"


    Upon hearing this, Zhi Xia instantly became excited. Her eyes shone as she nced at Pei Jing before settling on Pei JianGuo, eagerly anticipating his response.


    She couldn''t deny that she was relishing in her newfound power.


    Under Pei Jing''s gaze, Pei JianGuo was furious yet helpless. In a very low voice he responded, "Yes, I do."


    "You know but still don''t call her?" Pei Jing continued.


    "Auntie, I''m going to work now," Pei JianGuo called out before quickly turning to leave. From his voice it was apparent he was both indignant yet didn''t dare make a scene in front of Pei Jing.


    "Have a good day, nephew," Zhi Xia added fuel to the fire, waving to show her friendliness.


    Pei JianGuo walked even faster. If it wasn''t for maintaining his adultposure, he probably would have sprinted away.


    There''s a saying, too much joy leads to sorrow.


    Zhi Xia was grinning from ear to ear but when she turned to Pei Jing, her smile instantly froze and she awkwardly hid her smug expression.


    "Happy?" Pei Jing raised an eyebrow at her.


    Zhi Xiaughed awkwardly a couple times before exining, "I didn''t mean it like that. It''s just that he bullied me first, so I couldn''t help but relish seeing him get hiseuppance."


    It wasn''t that Zhi Xia cared about appearances. In the end Pei JianGuo was Pei Jing''s nephew. She had heard that in her previous life, he had left all his assets to Pei JianGuo, showing how much he treasured this nephew.


    Mocking him in front of Pei Jing when she was only able to do so thanks to his power probably wasn''t appropriate. She didn''t know if he would get angry.


    Zhi Xia had no idea how adorable she was being. Pei Jing only sighed thinking about what had transpired between them.


    This girl was still a child at heart, yet was already pregnant. Now the pregnancy didn''t show, butter, who knew what would happen.


    His profession meant he couldn''t always be by her side. Could she manage on her own?


    They weren''t even married yet but Pei Jing was already worrying about their future life.


    "Right, I heard that yesterday Pei''s Grandpa hit you. Are you okay?" Zhi Xia didn''t know if she was truly concerned about him or just changing the topic. In any case, it was because of her that he got hurt.


    "I''m fine, don''t worry about me. He was just angry at the time and it looked worse than it was. He didn''t actually hit hard." Just as the olddy had guessed, it was all for show.


    Regardless of who was at fault, as the groom''s side and with a life-and-death friendship with the An family, the Pei family had to take the me to save Zhi Xia''s reputation.


    "What about you? Is your body okay? Why are you running around outside instead of resting at home?"


    Pei Jing rapid-fired several questions at Zhi Xia, leaving her confused. "I''m fine. Granny said toe see you."


    "That works out well, saves me a trip toe get you," Pei Jing said. "Did you bring your household registration? I''ll take you to the neighborhood office first for an introduction letter, then we can get our marriage certificate."


    "It''s still at home," Zhi Xia said, annoyed. She had been preupied with sending off Fourth Brother today and forgot she needed her registration to get married.


    "You said you had to file a report here. Is that done?"


    Pei Jing nodded and nced at Zhi Xia''s stomach. "Then let''s go back and get your registration first. If you feel unwell at all, tell me right away, don''t endure it."


    Zhi Xia''s paleplexion yesterday had been somewhat frightening. Knowing she was already pregnant, Pei Jing couldn''t help but suck in a breath, ming himself for not looking after her better during the day.


    As Zhi Xia sat behind him on the bike, she thought for a moment then grabbed his clothes.


    They were going to get married. Barring idents, they would spend their whole lives together.


    So being overly distant would be difficult for both of them.


    An ZhiAng had left, so the only ones home were Zhou Nan and Wen Qing.


    At the door, Zhi Xia said, "I''ll go in by myself. Wait out here for me."


    Pei Jing immediately understood her meaning and advised, "There''s still the wedding banquet. You can''t get married without letting them know. If you don''t want to tell them, shall I go in and apologize?"


    Although the two families'' elders had reconciled, sneaking off to elope without telling the bride''s parents still felt inappropriate to Pei Jing. This was also his first marriage so hecked experience. He should have properly visited them first and obtained consent before applying for the certificate.


    Startled by Zhi Xia''s pregnancy, outwardly he was calm but the prospect of suddenly bing a father had him on tenterhooks.


    "I didn''t say not to let them know. I just want to try sneaking off to get married, see what it feels like. Isn''t it exciting?" Zhi Xia blinked mischievously. "Just wait out here for me, don''te in."


    Zhi Xia was very clear that since in their eyes she couldn''tpare to An MeiYun, she didn''t need them anymore either.


    If not for her registration still being there, she wouldn''t havee back at all.


    When Zhi Xia went in, Wen Qing was napping and Zhou Nan was inside. She directly said, "I''m back to get my registration, I need it for something."


    "Oh, I''ll get it for you." With An ZhiAng gone, the house felt different to Zhou Nan. Seeing Zhi Xia return, she didn''t think much of it and assumed it was for work matters.


    Household registrations in the 1970s were still paper-based and handwritten. Zhi Xia took out her page and returned the rest to Zhou Nan. "I''ll hold onto this page myself, it''ll be more convenient if I need itter."


    "That''s fine, just keep it safe and don''t lose it," Zhou Nan told her and asked, "Zhi Xia, Fourth Brother is also gone and MeiYun''s engagement is called off. When are youing home?"


    Being home alone taking care of a child, the house no longer had its former liveliness. She felt like something was missing.


    Zhi Xia was silent for a moment. "Let''s talk about itter."


    She was about to get married and might leave Jincheng after.


    She had no intention ofing back here. She would need to make that clearter.


    "Okay okay, go take care of your work matters first, that''s most important." Zhou Nan said happily.


    When Zhi Xia walked out the front door, her previously cheerful expression was gone.


    They went to the neighborhood office for a certification first before applying for their marriage certificate.


    At that time, the one yuan marriage certificate was still exorbitantly priced, so most weremonw marriages with few having actual certificates.


    Zhi Xia gave Pei Jing her household registration page since they needed to update the information. His special status also made things slightly moreplicated.


    Worried being out too long would strain Zhi Xia physically, and also concerned about Pei Jing''s injuries, they returned immediately after finishing their errand rather than lingering outside.

 Chapter 81: Not Close, Not Far Away

    <h4>Chapter 81</h4>


    Suddenly she got married, and Zhi Xia was still very happy. She felt the kind of feeling when a child suddenly grows up.


    After returning to the room, she happily locked the door and went into the space.


    Opening the trading interface, she realized that she hadn''t replied to the messages about the martial arts world.


    The other party just said hello simply, but from the name it could be seen that the other party was also a genius doctor. The name was quite opportunistic, called Genius Doctor Sister.


    She smiled and wrapped a pack of candy in red paper, and picked some fruits and scooped some seafood to give to the other party.


    Of course, the gift was definitely not just for her alone. She had also prepared a share for her other friends.


    For the Queen of Insect n, considering that she was a vegetarian Insect n, Zhi Xia only gave her fruits, but added some vegetables.


    Of course, when Zhi Xia gave gifts, she left a little trick. Although she gave many types, the quantities were very small.


    These were just for them to try, and also to let them know about the products here, leaving room for future transactions.


    Soon, those who received gifts sent their wedding congrattions one after another, plus a wedding gift.


    Especially the aquaculture tycoon. This rascal actually gave her a box of condoms and sex toys!!!


    At this moment, Pei Jing''s serious face suddenly shed in Zhi Xia''s mind, and her face turned red instantly.


    They were already married. Would they have that kind of intimate activity in the future?


    Although she was in an 18-year-old body, she could not ignore the fact that her soul had wandered for hundreds of years. In these hundreds of years, she had seen too much. It was not too much to say that she was shameless.


    Of course, Zhi Xia felt that she was still quite tender, because she had died when she was only 18 years old in her previous life, so her thinking remained at this age.


    She just knew more, but she didn''t be the kind of old people''s mentality as time went by.


    She hurriedly shook her head to shake off these messy thoughts. Zhi Xia began to continue unpacking gifts.


    The Queen of Insect n was the most straightforward. She directly gave a red envelope of 10,000 Star Coins, which made Zhi Xia extremely happy.


    There was no news from the zombie side, it showed that he was not online at the moment.


    Genius Doctor Sister, a new friend she just met, actually also had a gift. It was a small sachet. She told her to take it out and hang it on the head of the bed on her wedding night to promote the feelings between husband and wife without harming the body.


    Zhi Xia suppressed herugh while covering her face.


    How could this sister be so shameless like the aquaculture tycoon!


    Modern Little Rich Woman: "Sister, I''m still pregnant."


    Genius Doctor Sister: "Wow, you people in the future are really bold, you actually have premarital pregnancy, I''m so envious!!!"


    Zhi Xia waspletely speechless, what''s there to be envious about?


    Modern Little Rich Woman: "Sister, stop teasing me, I''m young and have thin skin. If you keep doing this, I won''t talk to you anymore."


    Genius Doctor Sister: "Don''t, I still want to learn about the future world from you..."


    Throughmunication, it was found that the other party was a very talkative little sister.


    Oh no, it should be big sister.


    Because the other party had been married for a long time and had two children. Her partner was a prince, and she was aplete winner in life.


    And because of the drawback of the trading interface requiring Star Coins to search for friends, she had the trading interface for several years, and except for an initial free friend, she only had her, who actively searched for the other party, as a friend.


    In just a few words, the other party purchased another batch of seafood. She said it was a rare item there, so she prepared it to give as gifts. She also wanted a lot of fruits. The fruits produced in the space naturally tasted better than those in the outside world, so it was not surprising that she would like them.


    What Zhi Xia got in return was a box of jewelry. It was rtively old-fashioned and certainly unrealistic to wear out.


    It could be seen that Genius Doctor Sister had money and was generous. Knowing that she was newly married, she also gave her several fairy-like ancient costumes that she had never worn before, all new clothes.


    Considering they might not fit her size, she also sent her several bolts of cloth.


    Inparison, Zhi Xia felt that she was too petty, and felt embarrassed.


    After thinking about it, since the other party was a married woman, she hurriedly found a cardboard box, took out half of the things the aquaculture tycoon gave her, and then gave them to the other party.


    After all, she had been married for several years. She was not shy at all. She was excited to apologize to her, and said that she really liked it.


    On Genius Doctor Sister''s side, she was indeed obsessed with those things. She was looking forward to using them when her husband came home at night to make sure he couldn''t get out of bed!


    There was a knock on the door outside. Zhi Xia hurried back to the real world.


    Opening the door, she saw Granny standing at the door.


    "Zhi Xia,e out and eat quickly. After eating, Granny has something to tell you." The olddy also noticed that whenever Zhi Xia was alone in the room, she often locked the door and didn''t know what she was doing.


    But she didn''t ask much. After all, the child had aplicated growing environment. She thought that it was probably due to ack of sense of security.


    If she asked suddenly, she was afraid the child would feel ufortable. She could only be more patient and slowly persuade her. After a long time, she would slowly feel the love of her family and open up.


    "Okay, I''ming out now."


    When Zhi Xia came out, she just saw Sister-inw Zhou taking the lunch box out the door, and guessed that Granny had let her leave early.


    During the meal, the old master said to her, "Today you and Pei Jing got your marriage certificate. From now on, when you see Old Pei, you have to change your mouth and call him Dad. You also have to change how you address Pei''s family. Don''t feel awkward and unable to call them. A person''s face can be thin when it should be thin, and thick when it should be thick. After a period of time you will naturally get used to calling them."


    "I know, Grandpa." Zhi Xia would not feel awkward at all. She just felt sorry for the old master. "Grandpa, I don''t have any problem myself. It''s just that your rtionship with Pei...my dad, I feel sorry for you."


    After being brothers for so many years, suddenly, the old master became the elder of his brother''s family. Zhi Xia knew it would be very awkward to think about it.


    But the old master looked at it with great openness. He waved his hand and said, "Don''t worry about our business. Don''t feel anything in your heart either. Old Pei and I have discussed it. You have your own dealings, we two have ours. From now on, just do what needs to be done. You just think about living your own good life, and don''t take us two old guys into consideration."


    At his age, with one foot already in the coffin, what else could he not let go of?


    If someone said they couldn''t let go, they were simply making things difficult for themselves and deserved it.


    "Today is a good day. In principle, the two families should have eaten together, and Old Pei also mentioned this matter. But considering your health, we didn''t mess with it. Just know it in your heart."


    Zhi Xia nodded. She didn''t have any opinion.


    The old master also asked, "By the way, did you tell your mother about getting the marriage certificate when you went back to get your household registration book today?"


    "I didn''t say anything. I don''t know how to bring it up." In the short time Zhi Xia had been back, she felt closer to Grandpa and Granny.


    As for An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan''s side, with so many things happening, she really couldn''t get close to them.


    Of course, she would not push away their kindness either, given that Gao Meiyun was still eyeing them covetously. Her attitude towards them was not to get close, nor to reject.


    This approach seemed a bit scummy, but it was still better than pushing them to Gao Meiyun''s side.

 Chapter 82: Dowry

    <h4>Chapter 82</h4>


    When Old Master heard this, he did not say anything either. He probably could guess what was on her mind and very understandingly took the matter onto himself to exin.


    Knowing summer instantly felt relieved.


    If she had to exin it herself, there would inevitably be another round of exnations.


    She could be frank with grandpa and grandma, but she could not open up to them no matter what.


    Some opportunities, once missed, are gone forever, and no matter how much you doter, you can never make up for them.


    When she first returned to this family, Knowing Summer was also full of longing for them, and was confident that they would choose her.


    But reality gave her a harsh p in the face.


    A 10-month pregnancy ultimately could notpare to 18 years of nurturing, and she also saw through it and did not force it.


    They did not love her, and she did not love them either. After all, she was no longer the pitiful child craving parental affection.


    After the meal, without letting Old Madam do it, Knowing Summer went to clean up the bowls and chopsticks.


    Zhou Nan had already cleaned up the kitchen before leaving, and there were only a few bowls that needed to be rinsed, so it was quick.


    Old Master locked the door and returned to the living room. Knowing Summer saw a wooden box ced on the table in front of them.


    Old Madam beckoned to her, and Knowing Summer went over and sat down beside her.


    Old Madam opened the wooden box, revealing the jewels inside.


    Knowing Summer looked at Old Madam in shock, and heard her say, "This is the dowry prepared by grandpa and grandma for you. Although the quantity is not much, they are all good things. Take a look and see if you like them?"


    The An family''s public statement was that they had donated all their family property, and they had even sold their old house back then in order to donate an airne to the country.


    This was also Old Master''s intention at the time, to dispose of all the things that were known to outsiders, difficult to hide, too conspicuous or toorge to collect and store, and not to worry about them. Being able to keep the family safe was the best thing, and they had also made a contribution to the country.


    In fact, the An family had been prosperous in Jin City for hundreds of years, and had gone through several generations of family patriarchs. How could they not leave something for themselves?


    It was just that these things could not see the light of day at the moment, so they could only be hidden, waiting for the day when the times became more open, and then take them out to leave for future generations.


    What Old Madam gave Knowing Summer today did not touch the An family''s possessions at all, but was picked out from her own dowry, and it was only a tiny part of it. There was more that she was not reluctant to give, but did not dare take out. If taken out, it would only lead to disaster.


    When Old Madam was young, her natal family was also very prominent. Butter her natal family fled the country, leaving her those things they did not take with them. So Old Madam was by no means poorer than Old Master.


    Apart from Old Master and Old Madam, only An Jingzhi and eldest grandson An Zhiqing knew about these family assets, even Zhou Nan did not know.


    The old couple were also very vignt, even if An Meiyun was reborn, she would not know about the things the An family had hidden.


    In that life, when the family property was divided, it was also when Old Master was terminally ill. The children of the An family were not fools either. The family property they divided up was also hidden very well by themselves. After all, the family''s public statement was that they had donated all their property to gain their present honor. Even if the times became more openter and it was exposed, they would be pping themselves in the face.


    So in Gao Meiyun''s eyes, the children of the An family were all well off, but she did not know that they had capital to begin with, plus the protection of their elders.


    As for her, originally out of emotional considerations, even if she did not like her, they would not let her fall to that extent. It was a pity that she was so nasty, and unlike this life where she knew to pretend to be pitiful, in that life she was tantly evil, so it was no wonder the family''s patience with her was quickly worn thin!


    Knowing Summer looked at the things in the box. At the very bottom was a row of sixrge yellow croakers, two handkerchiefs wrapped around two gold bangles and two red agate bangles respectively, two pearl nes, onerge and one small, four pairs of earrings, and several pendants.


    Old Master said at the side, "Some of these things are not worth much now, but keep them well. They will be worth something in the future. There is also a saying to remember, wealth should not be unted, as long as you know it in your heart, don''t let it out. On your wedding day there will be many people around, so these can��t be brought along with the dowry to the Pei family. They should be kept at home first until after you finish the wedding ceremony before taking them."


    After all, the bride''s dowry should not be brought out and seen.


    Old Master also gave Knowing Summer five hundred dors, saying, "Grandpa can''t let others look down on my granddaughter just because we don''t have time to preparerge dowry items. This is the dowry your grandma gave you, and this is what grandpa gives you. The Pei family will also give a bride price, but there are two daughters-inw above you, so the amount can''t be too much. Let''s not nitpick about this. Our family doesn''tck money either, it doesn''t matter. As long as you two can have a good life in the future, that''s fine. But Old Pei also said that Pei Jing has been keeping his sry to himself over the years, and after the wedding he will hand it over to you to manage. At that time, whatever you want to buy, you make the decisions yourself, and he will handle the receipts."


    Old Master and Old Pei had already discussed this, and Knowing Summer naturally had no opinion.


    Old Madam secretly rolled her eyes, still feeling somewhat wronged for her granddaughter, and whispered in Knowing Summer''s ear, "Knowing Summer, no matter what those two old men discussed, your grandma''s dowry is hidden away, and I will leave it all to you in the future. Your dad and brothers will have no share!"


    In their old generation, the bride price and dowry were the bride��s private property. When the dowry was brought over before the wedding, it was registered and catalogued, divided into several copies and kept separately. Plus her natal family left her quite a bit when they fled. Old Madam was a bona fide richdy.


    When donating the family property back then, Old Master never intended to take his daughters-inw''s dowries. So Old Madam''s things were all kept.


    It could be said that in this family, Old Madam was the wealthiest.


    Hearing Old Madam''s words, Old Master just nced at her without speaking. After all, he had no say over his wife''s dowry.


    Carrying the jewelry box, Knowing Summer went back and after careful consideration, still put it into her space.


    There would inevitably be peopleing to her room on her wedding day, and it would not be good if it was exposed. The space was the safest ce.


    Today''s meal time was very early. After the meal, it was still not dark outside.


    Old Master took Old Madam to An Jingzhi''s ce, probably to tell them about her wedding.


    Knowing Summer went to bed very early, almost falling asleep as soon as she hit the bed, and did not know when they came back.


    The next morning, An Jingzhi came over with Zhou Nan.


    Knowing Summer was quite afraid they hade to question her, but fortunately they didn''t say anything. An Jingzhi also took out five hundred dors for her, saying it was for her dowry.


    Zhou Nan seemed to want to express something. She said to Knowing Summer, "Knowing Summer, when Meiyun got married, mom only gave her two hundred. There''s not enough time for you, and we can''t preparerge items either. If you need anythingter, dad and mom can add to your dowry."


    "Thank you dad and mom, I''m fine for now." Knowing Summer politely thanked them.


    After leaving Knowing Summer''s room, An Jingzhiined to Zhou Nan, "Didn''t we agree not to mention Meiyun again? Why did you bring her up in front of Knowing Summer again?"


    "The child always feels we don''t dote on her. I have to say it to let her know!" Zhou Nan wiped the corner of her eye and said, "It''s my own daughter I gave birth to after ten months. How could I not dote on her? But as soon as this child came back, she was already so grown up. Seeing her so opinionated, I also don''t know how to show concern for her."

 Chapter 83: Inquire about Things

    <h4>Chapter 83</h4>


    The few little monkeys at home could speak up whenever they had issues. Boys didn''t obsess over details the way girls did. Even though An JingZhi looked quiet on the surface, she was actually quite hard to get close to.


    This left An JingZhi at a loss for words.


    It wasn''t that An JingZhi didn''t have any requests. Long before she returned home, she had already made requests.


    It was them who had agreed but failed to follow through, dying again and again instead.


    Perhaps they still didn''t understand clearly that affection could never bepensated by money.


    From the moment they chose Gao Meiyun over and over, An JingZhi and them were destined to grow apart.


    Looking at the 500 yuan in hand, a nice thick stack, it was still quite impressive.


    An JingZhi put the money together with what grandpa gave her, and only then was she able to regain herposure.


    An JingZhi''s parents were in no hurry to leave. Although time was tight, they still had to be prudent about etiquette.


    The Pei family had invited a matchmaker, while the An family had brought over Liu Ling''s father. Pei Lao told others that Pei Jing was eager to return to his troop, so the simple wedding was rushed.


    Pei Jing had been home for over a month, and was marrying a girl a generation younger. Those present were old foxes who understood something else must be going on.


    But those invited were all close rtions, so no one would pry.


    An JingZhi stayed in her room the whole time. Though they were discussing her marriage, propriety dictated that an unmarried girl remain modest and not show her face.


    She had cooked the dishes herself. Luckily Mrs. Zhou had washed and chopped all the ingredients beforehand, so An JingZhi only needed to cook them.


    Such were the rules - the groom''s side had made overtures, so the bride''s side had to disy her cooking skills.


    After ving away the whole day, those who should leave had left. Granny told An JingZhi to hurry back and rest, leaving the cleanup to Mrs. Zhou and Zhou Nan.


    Zhou Nan felt Granny spoiled An JingZhi too much, but held his tongue.


    Once back in her room, Granny told An JingZhi, "Your parents don''t know about your pregnancy. Watch what you say so it doesn''t slip out."


    After careful thought, Granny decided it best not to tell Zhou Nan''s side, to avoidplications.


    When the child was born, even if it was a little early, no one would dare say anything.


    An JingZhi naturally agreed.


    Meanwhile, she still didn''t know what was happening with Gao Meiyun. And there was her job, which she was supposed to start yesterday but hadn''t shown up for at all.


    An JingZhi felt she still needed to go out for a bit - first, there was her restaurant job. Even if she didn''t n to continue, she could at least sell the job she had traded for ginseng and make some money.


    Although she had many things in her space, in reality other than the new dowry from her elders, she really had no money.


    There was also Liu Jun''s side - she wanted to find out about the Lin Family and Gao Meiyun''s aftermath.


    She never dared underestimate Gao Meiyun. In her past life, relying solely on herself, Gao Meiyun had brought the An family to ruin. Other than them being unguarded against her, one couldn''t deny her means and schemes.


    Speaking of which, this made her think of Liang Zhiwei. He was a ruthless man, and was likely behind Gao Meiyun as her backup.


    After finally getting granny''s permission, An JingZhi went out.


    An JingZhi felt she should still be able to ride a bike right now, but granny had never seen her do so. Worried about her pregnancy, she absolutely refused to let An JingZhi ride alone, insisting Mrs. Zhou take her wherever she needed to go.


    How could An JingZhi let them know she was going to do bad things? She hastily declined and slipped away.


    Once outside, she heaved a long sigh, looking sadly at her legs. She could only resign herself to walking forward.


    What a coincidence - in the open space up ahead, Liu Jun happened to be holding a big meeting with a group of people.


    An JingZhi blended into the crowd and watched for a while. She noticed two familiar faces that seemed to be Lin Zheng''s disciples from the restaurant.


    This made An JingZhi shudder, and be d she hadn''t started work yet.


    She had been extremely careful in this matter, but there were still some unavoidable associated branches.


    It was Liu Jun who clung stubbornly and wouldn''t let go. Since the Lin family members were arrested, plus there was Huang Cui''s involvement leading to a long chain of events, these small fries didn''t have ess to all that.


    Eager to build his credentials, and having actually unearthed many secrets while searching Huang Cui''s home, Liu Jun had been praised these past two days. Without ess to the key figures, he could only assert his presence among these unimportant underlings - holding meetings, educating people, whether reasonable or not, no one was managing him now.


    After watching a while, An JingZhi couldn''t bear to keep looking. She suddenly understood why Fourth Bro said to minimize contact with Liu Jun. She simply waited off to the side for them to finish.


    She wondered if someone like Liu Jun, already so vicious now, would be domestically abusive when he found a partner in future?


    An JingZhi didn''t n on meddling. Perhaps some here were innocent, but there were too many innocent people in this world for her to help them all, let alone people close to the Lin Family.


    When the An family fell in her previous life, that too entailed bringing down associated parties. Many innocent people suffered the crackdown then as well.


    Compared to these unrted people, she felt even more heartache for those close to her.


    After Liu Jun finished, he was about to leave with his men, when An JingZhi called out to him, "Brother Liu, are you done with your things?"


    "Yo, if it isn''t little sister An JingZhi! Come,e, brother was just saying he wants to properly thank you." Liu Jun had just been handed a bottle of Beibingyang soda by his buddies when An JingZhi called him. He hadn''t even opened it yet when he handed it to An JingZhi and said, "Here, drink this and quench your thirst."


    The things Liu Jun unearthed from Huang Cui''s home were no small matter. His superiors had already sent word that after this incident passed, he would no longer be a mere small boss, but would gain an official position.


    And all this was thanks to An JingZhi, so Liu Jun was naturally grateful to her.


    An JingZhi didn''t stand on ceremony and epted the soda. She quickly spoke softly, "Brother Liu, you should speak softer. I was drunk that day and don''t remember what I said. Anyway this has nothing to do with me. I''m timid and afraid of getting involved. Don''t pin this on me. Your achievements are due to your own capabilities, and have nothing to do with me."


    Seeing An JingZhi did seem cowardly, Liu Junughed and lowered his voice. "Alright, I won''t give you up. But brother owes you a favor for this. If you ever need anything in future, juste find brother. From now on I, Liu Jun, am your real brother. Don''t say anything else - if anyone in this area dares bully you, just say my name Liu Jun. I''ll break their legs."


    There''s a saying, don''t provoke the local snake. Liu Jun was the biggest snake in this area.


    "I do have something I''d like to ask brother Liu about." An JingZhi had been waiting for this chance. She quickly spoke, "I''m just a girl and don''t understand other matters, so I won''t ask more. I just want to know, what happened to Gao Meiyun and the Lin Family? Brother Liu knows about my family circumstances so I won''t hide it from you. Ever since I returned, Gao Meiyun has been against me. My parents also favor her. If not for Fourth Bro protecting me, I don''t know how much grievance I''d have suffered. Now Fourth Bro isn''t home either, and I''m afraid if shees back I won''t have a ce in that home."

 Chapter 84: An Jingzhi is on the Move

    <h4>Chapter 84</h4>


    After listening, Liu Jun sneered and his posture became casual, "Miss Xia, don''t worry. Looking at the Lin Family''s matter alone, Gao Meiyun only needs to make up her mind to divorce Lin Hao, then this matter would not really hurt her. However, the Lin Family is also quite unlucky. It is self-inflicted for Lin Hao to have an affair with Huang Cui and even secretly had a child with her..."


    Liu Jun felt it was increasingly funny and could not help smiling. "The things I found at Huang Cui''s ce were enough to ruin Huang Cui and Lin Haopletely. See, Miss Xia, recently many people around here are wearing red armbands. Lin Hao is now implicated with the enemy spies, and has passed on quite some messages before. He now cannot clear himself of the stains even if he jumps into the Yellow River. He is now associated with the enemy spies. Once involved in this matter, she cannot separate herself even if she wants to, unless someone helps her, at best she still has to go to the farms and be guarded. "


    This is different from educated youths. Educated youths were at least free and honorable.


    But with this step Gao Meiyun took, not only was she unable to stay in the city, she also smeared herself with shit. Now leaving the city she could not go to a good ce either. Her reputation and treatment would not improve.


    "Thank you Brother Liu for telling me these. Anyway I don''t understand. As long as she won''te to bully me I''ll just feel assured. Brother Liu must be busy, I''ll go back first." Xia Zhia smiled and really could not feel assured.


    After separating from Liu Jun, she went to find Liang Zhiwei at the Ideological Committee.


    Liang Zhiwei had been busy these days and did not even have time to go home. Knowing that Xia Zhia came looking for him, he was not happy at all.


    "You came at this time. It must be about work, right?" Liang Zhiwei did not intend to chit chat and said, "Lin Zheng got into trouble. The restaurant closed these few days because we have not found a suitable chef yet. After the higher ups make an appointment in a few days we''ll open for business. Don''t worry, just stay home safely these few days and wait for notice."


    Xia Zhia did not know the restaurant had closed. But after hearing what Liang Zhiwei said, she understood.


    "Chief Liang misunderstood. I did note because of my own work, but to..." Xia Zhia smiled and lowered her voice, "bring Chief Liang money."


    Liang Zhiwei''s expression instantly became cautious as he looked warily at Xia Zhia. "Comrade An, we can eat carelessly but cannot speak carelessly. What do you take me, Liang Zhiwei, as? And what do you take our Ideological Committee as? This is a proper organization."


    It was because she did not find the right opportunity. Usually there were gifts to give but these few days, probably no one dared to receive them.


    The whole city was vignt against the enemy spies. At this point, the slightest mistake would be fatal. Who would dare make a mistake at such a critical moment?


    "Chief Liang must have misunderstood. What I mean is, as you know, although our An family has published in the news to sever ties with Gao Meiyun, after all my parents had raised her for so many years. She got implicated in this incident for no reason, it was quite a big blow to our family." Xia Zhia helplessly said, "Also because it has been chaotic recently, my family is worried about me going out to work. So I came to tell Chief Liang that I cannot work anymore, and can only let you down."


    "These are all small matters, it''s nothing, don''t mention it." To Liang Zhiwei, Xia Zhia''s unwillingness to work just happened to free up a spot. He could think of ways to fish some benefits.


    Moreover, he had just given Xia Zhia moneyst time, and had put in quite some effort to arrange work for her. Adding to that was his wife''s expensive medical treatment and medication, he was not well off now.


    "Let''s do this. After all it was a job, it''s a pity to give it up. I''ll arrange for you and find someone to buy the job. In a couple of days after the restaurant opens, just go and cooperate to handle the procedures."


    "There is another thing I hope Chief Liang can help with." Xia Zhia said.


    Liang Zhiwei was still calcting how much money he could fish from reselling the job. He was in a good mood. "Tell me."


    "I don''t need the money from selling the job. I can cooperate to handle the procedures. I only want...to make it so Gao Meiyun has no chance of turning over a new leaf."


    As Xia Zhia''s voice fell, her fair little hand held a ginseng on the table. "This should be myst time looking for Chief Liang. Thank you for taking care of me all this while. Consider this my gift to thank you. Also please thank Teacher Zhao for helping me a lot."


    Xia Zhia knew Liang Zhiwei would definitely be moved.


    Zhao Jingyun''s illness was an expensive and precious one that could only be maintained through long-term medication and could not get angry or tired.


    And Liang Zhiwei, just a small director, could not support this expensive wife without relying on other ie sources.


    People are sometimes hard to tell if they are evil or good.


    Liang Zhiwei directed all his malice at others, and was even cruel enough to make Older Zhao suffer so tragically. Yet he directed his only kindness at his wife, not abandoning her despite her being a huge burden.


    In the previous life, right until Zhao Jingyun''s oil dried up and hermp went out, Liang Zhiwei also turned white-haired overnight, unable to find a goal to strive for anymore.


    Older Zhao said before he died that he had nothing left to miss except for his silly daughter.


    Xia Zhia had originally wanted Liang Zhiwei to get involved with the Lin Family, but decided it was too rushed to make a move right away, and did not manage to move Liang Zhiwei in.


    But it was also good to spare his life, and let him dedicate the rest of his life to taking good care of Zhao Jingyun. That would fulfill Older Zhao''s wishes. This was what Liang Zhiwei owed the Zhao family, what he owed Older Zhao, and also what he owed Zhao Jingyun.


    Having obtained Liang Zhiwei''s guarantee, Xia Zhia left satisfied.


    She had thought this matter was absolutely foolproof, but the next day, Liang Zhiwei came looking for her.


    Xia Zhia was watering the flowers in the yard. A child ran in from outside and told her someone surnamed Liang was looking for her. Xia Zhia knew it must be because something had changed with what Liang Zhiwei agreed to do yesterday.


    When she went out, she immediately saw Liang Zhiwei standing not far away pushing his bicycle.


    She walked over and calmly asked, "Chief Liang, why are you here?"


    "I came to tell you, I didn''t say I wouldn''t help you with what I promised yesterday. I had originally nned to convict Gao Meiyun together with Lin Hao. But your father went to see Gao Meiyun yesterday and helped process the divorce between Gao Meiyun and Lin Hao. If no one asked about her I could still convict her, but since someone is asking about her matters, if I forcibly convict her I can''t get rid of ties myself either. Do you understand?" Liang Zhiwei had after all obtained benefits from Xia Zhia, but the matter was not handled. He was anxious too, otherwise he would not have specially made a trip here to exin.


    Xia Zhia smiled stiffly. "I see. Chief Liang must preserve himself first of course. Gao Meiyun naturally cannotpare with you."


    Only then did Liang Zhiwei''s expression look better. He sighed and said, "But rest assured, I won''t take your things for nothing. Although I can''t take her life, I can still find her a good ce to go. The great northwest deserts have been mobilizing people to go nt trees these few years. Even men cannot take it when they go there. If she is unlucky or her mind is not firm, she might not be able toe back either. Anyway she won''t be able to trouble you in front of you again for a very long time."


    To ask him to spit out something he already obtained in his mouth was like taking his life. Moreover, the ginseng was beneficial for his wife''s illness. Liang Zhiwei tried his utmost and could only do this much.


    "Chief Liang can decide." Xia Zhia nced at the package in his hand and said, "My grandparents are still waiting for me at home. I''ll go back first."


    Liang Zhiwei knew she had agreed. He nodded, stepped on the pedal, and rode away on his bicycle.

 Chapter 85: Is There a Way

    <h4>Chapter 85</h4>


    Xia Zhi almost couldn''t maintain herposure.


    She wanted to tell herself not to get angry, it wasn''t worth it.


    She wasn''t really angry either, she just felt a deep sense of powerlessness.


    It was as if you were standing on the shore, watching a child drown, and you tried your best to pull them out, but they refused toe up, and were secretlypeting with you.


    You want to give up, but that child is still connected to your loved ones.


    Sometimes Xia Zhi really wanted to stop caring about everything in a fit of anger, but then she thought, this family didn''t just have An JingZhi and Zhou Nan, there was also grandfather and grandmother who doted on her, gentle elder sister-inw Wen Qing and cute Wen Qing, plus her other two brothers who, although not as indulgent of her as fourth brother, didn''t shun her either.


    If she really stopped caring, the An family would copse, and all these people who loved her would also be implicated, repeating the tragic fate of the previous life.


    Xia Zhi stiffly turned her head to go home, but saw Pei Jing standing not far away across the street, gazing at her with a deep look in his eyes.


    He didn''te over, but Xia Zhi walked towards him. Ultimately her destination wasn''t him though, she just took a detour on the way home, not saying a word from start to finish.


    Grandmother saw Xia Zhi''s unusually gloomy expression for the first time, and intuitively felt that something bad had happened.


    Looking back, she also saw Pei Jinging in from the door, his face equally unpleasant.


    "Little Jing, did you and Xia Zhi have a disagreement?" grandmother asked him.


    Pei Jing shook his head. He didn''t actually understand what was going on himself. "Nothing happened, Granny don''t worry about it, I''ll go see how she''s doing first."


    Calling her Granny just came out, it felt awkward at first, but once he said it it was fine.


    Grandmother was still worried and urged him, "Then you two need to talk it through, Xia Zhi isn''t an unreasonable child, don''t get impatient with her, and she''s different now, you need to yield to her more."


    Grandmother said it lightly with a smile on her face, but as soon as Pei Jing was out of sight, she immediately went to discuss things with Grandfather.


    These two children really were troublesome, it was so vexing, and they were arguing before even getting married, how would things go in the future?


    When Xia Zhi got back to her room, she sat down heavily on the bed, her mind full of all kinds of messy thoughts that she couldn''t calm down.


    Pei Jing came in and pushed open the door. Xia Zhi turned her head and happened to meet his gaze.


    As ifpeting, neither of them looked away.


    In the end Pei Jing gave in and walked over to stand in front of her and asked, "How do you know Director Liang?"


    He didn''t have a good reputation, so Pei Jing was worried that Xia Zhi would suffer a loss.


    But Xia Zhi was in a terrible mood and really didn''t want to be hypocritical with him. She blurted out, "Are you interrogating me?"


    "I was just casually asking." Pei Jing had already noticed that something was off with her, and thinking she was still young, spoke gently, "What''s wrong? What did he say to you to put you in such a bad mood?"


    When Pei Jing softened, Xia Zhi also realized she shouldn''t take her anger out on others. She lowered her voice and said, "He''s Teacher Zhao''s man. He just came today to pass on a message for Teacher Zhao. I''m not angry, just a little ufortable."


    Pei Jing: "What''s making you ufortable?"


    "I haven''t rested thesest few days and I''m irritable. I want to take a nap." Xia Zhi looked at him, the hint for him to leave was obvious.


    Pei Jing was taken aback, he had probably been hurt in his pride. He didn''t say anything more before turning around to leave.


    After going out, he stared at the door for a long time, unable to figure out how he had offended her.


    The footsteps outside gradually faded away. Xia Zhi closed her eyes and sank into darkness for a long time before opening them again.


    She locked the door and went into the space, heading straight for the insect queen with purpose.


    Little Rich Woman of the Times: "Sister Queen, I want to silently kill someone, is there a way?"


    She thought about it again and again, and the interster side still had the most hope.


    But the ne trading device had too many restrictions to stabilize the ne, so she didn''t know if it would work.


    Insect Queen: "There is a way, but you have to provide me with free food for a year, and prepare what I need, in veryrge quantities."


    Little Rich Woman of the Times: "What you want is too much, I can only do half a year. Too long and I can''t afford it, you know I''m very poor here."


    She could provide, but she couldn''t increase the other''s appetite.


    Insect Queen: "Deal."


    Finding arge source of food, it could mass produce offspring in the next period of time.


    The insects had a unique sense of territory, with one colony consisting of only one queen and countless drones, and the size of the colony depended on the queen''s reproductive capacity.


    Its reproductive capacity was fine, but the colony it ruled wasn''t big, and the food source was a huge problem.


    Now the food source was solved, as long as it kept eating, it could keep breeding offspring.


    The Insect Queen had also considered using star coins to purchase, but it was still distressed byrge amounts. Xia Zhi also didn''t sell however much it wanted just to string it along.


    Its star coins were also limited, not as abundant as Xia Zhi thought, and there were constant wars between the interster insects, they also had to guard against humans, and weapons consumption was huge.


    Looking at it this way, Xia Zhi was at a loss, but she didn''t care.


    She wanted Gao Meiyun to die, she just had to die, no one could save her.


    Before today, Xia Zhi also wanted Gao Meiyun to die, but had never thought of doing it herself.


    She was afraid of being immersed in hatred, afraid she would be ruthless like Gao Meiyun because of hatred.


    But An JingZhi''s actions today were too infuriating, she couldn''t care about that anymore.


    The more he wanted to protect Gao Meiyun, the more she wanted her dead.


    Coming out again, Xia Zhi''s mood was much better. She went to the yard and shouted, "Granny, I''m going out for a bit."


    "Where are you going? Let Little Jing go with you." Pei Jing was still chatting with Grandfather in the living room, discussing wedding ns, he hadn''t gone back.


    Xia Zhi: "No need for that. I want to go see Wen Qing, still don''t know when she''ll be back."


    "Then wait a moment, let me get some things for you." Grandmother hurriedly packed up and went out, still carrying two packs of things, "These are the snacks the Pei family brought yesterday. You can''t finish them anyway, take two packs for Wen Qing, it can count as a gesture from her sister-inw."


    It was Xia Zhi''s stuff to begin with. Grandmother also wanted Xia Zhi to go over and show some attention, to bring her and sister-inw closer together.


    It should have gone over yesterday, but when she asked the girl didn''t want to, and grandmother knew she had reservations, and wanted to give her son and daughter-inw a warning, so she just let it go.


    "Okay, I''m going now." Xia Zhi took the things and went out.


    When she lived there, she also secretly gave Wen Qing some things to eat. After all the child was little, she only knew she ate something, and couldn''t say exactly what she ate, so there was no risk of exposure.


    But on the surface, she really hadn''t given Wen Qing anything.


    Xia Zhi thought, this was indeed her mistake. She hade back and devoted her thoughts to Gao Meiyun instead, and she was still wearing the shoes big sister-inw made.


    Although Zhou Nan said she re-made them and gave them backter, they weren''t made by Xia Zhi.

 Chapter 86: This man will never exist again.

    <h4>Chapter 86</h4>


    Living room, old gentleman asked olddy, ��You just said she was upset, but listening to Xia��s voice, isn��t she quite lively?��


    ��When this child first came back she had a long face which gave me a fright, but now she seems strangely cheerful, she really does think of one thing then another.�� Olddy was afraid Pei Jing might be thinking something, so added: ��But she��s not the same now, at this time she really is prone to mood swings, that��s the price of being a woman, we can��t share her physical difort, all we can do is indulge her and let her take things easy.��


    Everyone knew, this difference referred to the fact that Xia was pregnant.


    Pei Jing had also heard from armyrades that when wives are pregnant they think of one thing then another, sometimes craving a certain food and dwelling on it if they can��t get it, and also tending to be more delicate, hearing olddy say this now, he understood instantly.


    Xia went all the way to An��s house, at this time of day the family were all out, only Zhou Nan was at home with Wen Qing.


    Seeing Xiae back, Zhou Nan was quite happy, ��Xia, you��re back?��


    Xia nodded, ��Granny told me to bring Wen Qing a couple of packets of snacks, I just happened toe back for a few things.��


    ��Fine, no one has touched anything in your room, go ahead.�� Zhou Nan thought for a moment, then asked, ��Xia, you have to leave the house for the wedding after tomorrow, right?��


    She had wanted to say this for a while, butcked the nerve.


    Now seeing Xiae back herself, she felt it was alright to talk to the child a little.


    Xia��s footsteps faltered as she was walking inside, she tugged the corner of her mouth, ��Does it matter where I leave from? You don��t care anyway, do you?��


    ��What��s this you��re saying child?�� Zhou Nan frowned in rebuttal, but Xia had already gone inside.


    Zhou Nan wanted to follow her, just at that moment, Wen Qing happened to fall over, so she could only go over first to help Wen Qing up andfort him.


    Taking advantage of this window, Xia went straight into Gao Meiyun��s room.


    This was the first time Xia had entered her room sinceing back, yet it was still very familiar.


    The wardrobe still had two unwanted old clothes left in it, she didn��t know if Gao Meiyun had worn them recently.


    Just in case, she took out a box the Queen of Bugs had given her from her space, opened it and released the bugs inside into the wardrobe.


    The bugs flew around inside for a while, then flew back into the box, only then did Xia retrieve them back into her space, this was to collect Gao Meiyun��s scent so the bugs could lock onto her.


    When she left, Zhou Nan wasn��t there fortunately.


    She returned to her own room, thought for a moment, then took out the 500 yuan and left it on the table.


    She was willing to ept their dowry money, at least she had originally still wanted to keep a distance from them, but now, she didn��t want to.


    Once Gao Meiyun��s matter was over, she would also leave here, and draw a line under this affair.


    She would live her own life in future, she wouldn��t allow herself to be mired in hatred and lose herself like Gao Meiyun, nor want to trap herself in these family ties and be unable to break free, only by leaving them could she start her own life afresh.


    Xia opened the door and went out, Zhou Nan was washing clothes in the yard, Wen Qing ran over and hugged her leg, calling softly ��Auntie��.


    Xia picked him up and yed with him for a while, then put him down to leave.


    Zhou Nan had already dried her hands and came over, sighing, ��Xia, mum knows what you��re thinking, it��s hard as flesh is flesh, you��re flesh torn from mum��s body, how could mum and dad not hurt for you? What��s more Meiyun won��te back again anyway, can��t you let go of this issue now okay? Mum and dad promise to cherish you properly in future, even if everything in the past was mine and dad��s fault, for the sake of us giving birth to you, give us another chance alright?��


    Zhou Nan lowered herself greatly, though in her heart she was also conflicted.


    Just as she��d said herself, flesh was flesh, no matter where it was hurt it pained them.


    But for Xia it was always different.


    Even if it was the difference between palm and back of hand, often when there was danger, people would instinctively expose the back of their hand to block it, while the palm was clenched tightly inside.


    Between her and Gao Meiyun, she was always the back of the hand.


    ��I heard dad went to help Gao Meiyun process her divorce, thinking carefully about it, in the past I was too obsessed with family ties, so kept putting myself in awkward situations, but not any more, you can help An Meiyun if you want, I won��t be angry or stop you any more, let it be like this from now on, I��m getting married, I believe I will have a very good life in future, you should too.��


    This way, it wouldn��t be in vain that she had done so much, though it still looked so hateful in their eyes.


    As for An Meiyun, she had to die.


    Perhaps at the moment of rebirth, destiny had already been set, it was a fight to the death between them, if she spared her, An Meiyun might not spare her once she came to her senses.


    Who then could mediate for her?


    ��What are you talking about? Child, what do you mean...let it be?�� Zhou Nan��s expression was flustered, she hurried to exin, ��Are you angry your dad is helping Meiyun process her divorce? Mum can exin this to you, Meiyun was implicated by Lin Hao too, she didn��t know Lin Hao had ties with secret agents either, if we don��t help her divorce now, she��ll be implicated and lose her life, and your dad is only helping her divorce, not doing anything else, nor saying she cane back, the best oue for her in future is to go to a farm for reformation, she won��te back to this family again or get in your way.


    Looking at Zhou Nan��s agitated expression, Xia suddenly smiled.


    She didn��t know if she was smiling at the other��s naivety, or her own foolishness.


    She didn��t say any more, saying too much made her seem so pathetic.


    Leaving An��s house, Xia went close to where An Meiyun was being held.


    She took out the box again and opened it, the fingernail sized bugs flew out once more, wings buzzing as they drifted into the distance.


    The bugs flew over the distant wall she could no longer see, only then did Xia retract her gaze.


    She didn��t pause, but kept walking forward releasing bugs, as if she really was just passing by.


    Xia looked down at the box in her hand, inside were a few drops of green liquid, secretions from the Queen of Bugs.


    Only this liquid could summon the released bugs back.


    When the bugs flew back, Xia closed the box again, seemingly putting it in her pocket when actually it went into her space.


    Without a moment��s dy Xia contacted the Queen of Bugs, then returned the box to her.


    This was agreed beforehand in their deal, as it already vited the rules of the internar traders, no one knew what consequences it might cause if the bugs stayed in this world.


    It was all over, in this world, Gao Meiyun would no longer exist.

 Chapter 87: To Stay or to Go

    <h4>Chapter 87</h4>


    On her way home, Zhi Xia ran into Wang Li.


    Wang Li told her thatst night, her parents had taken her to Zhi Xia''s house specially to thank her, because that day Zhi Xia had pretended to be drunk and identally saved her.


    Originally, Wang''s family was still very angry. Although it was Zhi Xia who saved Wang Li, in their eyes, the one who harmed their daughter was from Zhi Xia''s family. Their daughter was dragged into the infighting between the two families.


    Butter after reading the newspaper, they realized that Zhi Xia''s family had severed ties with that vicious woman.


    Additionally, these past two days, their daughter had been saying nice things about Zhi Xia. After thinking it over, they decided to go thank Zhi Xia in person.


    At the same time, they wanted Zhi Xia''s family to know that they could distinguish their own children''s good and bad deeds. They wouldn''t mention the one who did bad things, but they couldn''t let the one who did good things feel disappointed.


    Listening to Wang Li''s words, Zhi Xia could only feel irony.


    It turned out that after hearing about what happened at the wedding from Wang Li herself, they still went ahead to help Gao Meiyun get a divorce.


    And they kept saying they wouldpensate Zhi Xia and treat her well. How could they say such hypocritical words?


    After saying goodbye to Wang Li, Zhi Xia went home while the sky was still bright.


    She stood at the front gate for a long time before walking next door.


    It was very quiet in the Pei family''s yard. Zhi Xia followed the path to Pei Jing''s room and knocked twice on the door.


    "The door''s not locked,e in," Pei Jing''s low, rich voice came from inside the room.


    Zhi Xia opened the door and went in. She saw Pei Jing lying on the desk writing.


    At this time, he had taken off his military uniform. His upper body was only wearing a vest, revealing the wheat-colored nape of his neck and his strong, muscr arms.


    The half-revealed shoulders still carried traces of faint red marks.


    Pei Jing didn''t expect it to be Zhi Xiaing in. He looked up at her, put down his pen, and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    The brief encounter at noon made him re-examine Zhi Xia.


    From their previous meetings, Pei Jing knew that she probably didn''t like him. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have refused to acknowledge what happened between them, and even avoided him deliberately.


    Although he was willing to take responsibility, it was more out of consideration for the rtionship between their two families. What happened that day was an ident, and both of them were victims, but she as a girl suffered more.


    But with Zhi Xia''s repeated rejections, he didn''t insist on it either.


    Her pregnancy was truly unexpected, and it also made her change her attitude towards him.


    Pei Jing thought that even if it was a marriage to legitimize the child, with each of them fulfilling their marital duties, their days would still go by well. But Zhi Xia''s attitude at noon struck him hard.


    She was still disgusted by him, and only agreed to the marriage out of desperation. This made him reconsider what their married life would be like.


    With her harboring disgust towards him, how could they live well together?


    Zhi Xia didn''t answer him. Instead, she walked up and reached to pull up Pei Jing''s shirt, wanting to see how badly he was injured.


    No matter what, it was because of her that he was beaten.


    But Pei Jing was startled by her bold move. He dodged hurriedly, pulled back his chair and stood up, reaching to put on a jacket.


    "Sorry, I just saw the red marks on your shoulders and wanted to see how bad your injuries were." Zhi Xia realized her actions were too intrusive and felt a little embarrassed. She quickly exined.


    "It''s fine, not serious," he said. With his tough skin and flesh, the old man''s cane on his body only left a few red marks.


    Other than some slight pain when moving vigorously, it was negligible and didn''t affect anything.


    Since he said it was fine, she didn''t insist on looking. Zhi Xia spoke again apologetically, "I''m also very sorry about what happened at noon. I wasn''t yelling at you, I was just feeling unwell and took it out on you. But it won''t happen again next time, so don''t be angry with me, okay?"


    When it came to this, Pei Jing sighed and said to her, "Sit down and talk, don''t tire yourself out."


    Zhi Xia obediently sat down and listened to Pei Jing continue, "The wedding is the day after tomorrow. Since you came, let''s discuss our ns after getting married. You don''t have a problem with that, right?"


    Zhi Xia nodded. "What are your ns?"


    "I was thinking, your condition is special right now. I have to leave the day after the wedding, which is quite rushed. I haven''t had the chance to prepare and arrange housing over there yet. Also, after I return to the troops, I might be sent on missions and often have to leave you at home alone. So why don''t you wait before joining the army, since there are many people at home who can take care of you? What do you think?" Pei Jing made the arrangements based on various considerations. Also, Zhi Xia''s attitude towards him was very unstable. Bringing her along might not necessarily be good for her.


    He thought the olddy''s words made sense. She was still young and some willfulness was unavoidable. He could tolerate it.


    After the child was born and she became a mother, and grew a little older, she would get better.


    But his job was special, and there were indeed some things he couldn''t attend to. If he went on a mission for ten days or half a month, leaving her alone at home, it would be hard to feel reassured.


    Just a moment ago Zhi Xia was thinking of leaving this ce. But now she heard that he was unwilling to take her away.


    "Then what''s the point of us getting married?" Zhi Xia asked him, "You don''t even want to take me away. I''ll give birth to the child and raise it myself. Why do we need to get married? Just to give the child a legitimate reason to be born?"


    She hade wanting to apologize to him, but now she didn''t like what he was saying.


    "Who was it that told me just a while ago that his position had reached the level to bring along family, and now you''re going back on it? Also, if you don''t want to bring me along, fine, you don''t need to make up other excuses to fool me. I''m not insisting on following you."


    Zhi Xia stood up to leave, feeling a bit hurt.


    "Zhi Xia," seeing her get angry, Pei Jing frowned, got up and stopped her, "I said we were discussing this, not making decisions. If you''re not satisfied, you can voice it and we can discuss properly."


    Zhi Xia wasn''tpletely ignorant, and could understand that from Pei Jing''s perspective, his arrangements made sense.


    Just like with her elder brother and sister-inw. Wen Qing was already two years old, yet her sister-inw was still at home. Apart from her reluctance to give up her job, surely there were reasons on her brother''s side too?


    After calming down and thinking it through, Zhi Xia also becameposed again and replied rationally, "Actually I know there''s nothing wrong with your arrangements. It''s just that I don''t want to stay here anymore, and I don''t want to say why."


    Pei Jing could probably guess some of the reasons. When discussing the wedding with the old master, he had said Zhi Xia would be married out of the ancestral home. Clearly this went againstmon sense.


    After thinking it over, Pei Jing suddenly made a decision. "Since you think this way, thene with me. But the environment there may not be too good, transportation is inconvenient, and the housing is quite shabby..."


    This was giving advance notice, in case she regretted it after going and wanted toe back, which wouldn''t be so easy then.

 Chapter 88: The Dead Are Big

    <h4>Chapter 88</h4>


    In Pei Jing''s eyes, the conditions that looked rather difficult for Zhi Xia were not a problem for her at all. She still had her own space, and he was often not at home, which was the best for her.


    Before leaving, Zhi Xia asked him again, "Pei Jing, do you feel I''m troublesome?"


    Pei Jing was stunned by her question again, and said, "No, I just feel that if you have any problems in the future, you can discuss them directly with me. If you have any opinions, you can also let me know. I will try my best to satisfy you."


    He felt that Zhi Xia''s mind was still hard to guess, unlike his several nieces at home, whose thoughts could be seen at a nce.


    "I won''t be like this anymore. It''s not really your fault, it''s my own fault, but I''m fine now. After we get married, let''s live well, okay?" Zhi Xia smiled beautifully, her voice gentle and sweet, her skin fair and translucent. Compared to a month ago, it was a world of difference.


    Pei Jing was distracted. He nodded, "Okay."


    "Then I''ll go back first." Zhi Xia was obviously happier after getting an answer. She turned around and walked outside.


    Watching her cheerful back, Pei Jing shook his head with a smile.


    Sure enough, she was still a child. She acted on impulse. Her joy and sadness could change in an instant.


    When Zhi Xia went out, she happened to meet Pei Xiang who had just returned from outside. "Auntie, you came to see my uncle..."


    The girl''s sweet smile made Zhi Xia''s already good mood even sweeter. "Yes, did you juste back from outside?" She greeted her affectionately, and then heard Pei Xiang say, "Yes, I went out for a walk, and I happened to have something I wanted to ask you, I don''t know if it would be convenient."


    "Of course it''s convenient. What do you want to ask me?" Zhi Xia wondered.


    Pei Xiang thought of her mother''s words and said, "Are you going home now? I''lle to find youter, and then we can talk."


    "Okay, I''ll wait for you at home." Zhi Xia said.


    The old master was taking a nap in a recliner in the yard. Mrs. Zhou and the old madam were nowhere to be seen, so Zhi Xia went back to her room alone.


    She spent a long time in her personal space selecting several colorful skeins of yarn. She nned to use bright red as the base color and other colors to make patterns, to knit a sweater for Wen Qing.


    With the current weather, it would be suitable to wear morning and night soon.


    It didn''t take long to knit something for a two-year-old child. If she kept working, she could finish it in a day or two, so she could give it to Wen Qing before she left.


    She started knitting as soon as she made up her mind.


    After knitting two rounds, Pei Xiang came over.


    Knowing that she wasing over, Zhi Xia didn''t close the door. But Pei Xiang still knocked first to let Zhi Xia know she had arrived beforeing in.


    A polite girl was naturally likable.


    Pei Xiang came in and sat down in front of Zhi Xia. "Auntie, you''re knitting a sweater? It''s so small, it must be for Wen Qing, right?"


    "Yes." Zhi Xia looked up at her and smiled, but her hands kept moving without stopping at all. "Didn''t you say you wanted to ask me something? What is it?"


    "It''s nothing much. I just feel that you have a nice fragrant smell on you. Could you tell me what it is? I want to buy some to use too, or I could trade something with you for some." Pei Xiang said shyly with a smile.


    Zhi Xia stopped knitting for a moment. She carefully put the things aside first, stood up and smiled, "What''s this for? No need to buy it. You won''t be able to buy it anyway, because I made this little thing myself when I was free. Since you like it, I''ll give you a bottle."


    Taking advantage of opening the drawer, Zhi Xia took out a bottle of fragrant oil from her personal space. The white porcin bottle had an iron lid. After removing all the packaging to make sure there were no ws, she handed it to Pei Xiang, "It''s this. Just dab a little bit with your finger and apply it behind your ears to give off the fragrance. This is jasmine. Try it."


    Pei Xiang took it happily. She firstplimented how nice the bottle looked before opening it to smell it. She nodded satisfactorily right away, "It smells so nice. Auntie, you are so capable."


    "These are just little gadgets. I picked up this bottle when I was a child at thendlord''s house. Back then, many things were thrown all over the ce. I brought back anything I thought was nice looking." Zhi Xia exined, giving the bottle a backstory too. Of course, it was just a bottle of solid fragrance balm.


    Pei Xiang took out the gift she had prepared early - a white handkerchief printed with plum blossoms. "Auntie, I don''t know how to make anything. My ssmate''s parents went to Haicheng. I asked him to help me bring this back. Don''t look down on it."


    "Then you should keep it for yourself." Zhi Xia didn''t dare ept it. It may be a small thing, but being brought back from Haicheng meant it must be precious.


    "I have more at home. I got this specially for auntie. Don''t push it back to me. I''m going back first and wille to y with you another day." Pei Xiang refused to take it back and ran off after saying that.


    Zhi Xia was left standing there holding the handkerchief. After a while, she suddenlyughed.


    She really was a good girl who didn''t like to take advantage of others. She was much better than the two siblings of the eldest branch.


    Pei Jianguo also had a younger sister. Zhi Xia didn''t have much contact with her in this life, and they didn''t have any conflicts either. But from asional observations in her previous life, the little daughter of the eldest branch was not a fuel-efficientmp.


    She was not that smart, but she did have her own set of ways to be willful and stubborn.


    But that was none of her business. Zhi Xia folded the handkerchief neatly and put it away in the drawer before continuing to knit the sweater.


    After an afternoon, a considerable length of the sweater was knitted.


    Hearing voices outside, Zhi Xia got up and went out.


    An Jingzhi was pushing a bicycle in the yard and said to the old master: "Dad, Meiyun is dead!"


    His expression was veryplicated, mostly disbelief. The person who was still lively and jumping in front of him a few days ago lost her life in just a few days.


    But people from the monastery specially came to inform him. Meiyun was bitten by a venomous bug in broad daylight and could not be saved. He saw the corpse with his own eyes, so he had no choice but to believe it.


    No matter how much he disliked this granddaughter, a living person''s life was gone. The old master still had to ask about it.


    Learning that she was bitten by a venomous bug, the old master also hadplicated feelings.


    After a while, he said, "After all, we raised her for a period. Now that her life is gone, we won''t dwell on the past. The Gao family still has rtives in Anle Vige. Doesn''t she still have two siblings? Notify them to take the corpse back."


    An Jingzhi hesitated for a moment, and said, "Dad, as you said, Meiyun is gone, and the past is over. When she was alive, she hated the Gao family the most. Shouldn''t we at least..."


    "Foolish." Before he could finish speaking, the old master scolded him in a low voice, "Jingzhi, you''re already forty to fifty years old. You can''t be more muddleheaded as you get older, can you? Zhi Xia is getting married the day after tomorrow. What would it mean to have a corpse in the house? Or are you saying that even in this situation now, you still want Zhi Xia to yield to her? Don''t forget that she just tried to harm Zhi Xia a few days ago. How would that make your own daughter feel if you act like this?"


    In principle, the dead deserve the most respect from the living.


    But Zhi Xia''s situation was special, and Gao Meiyun was too vicious and lost the hearts of others, so even the old master could not agree to let Zhi Xia yield.

 Chapter 89: Better offend a gentleman than a villain.

    <h4>Chapter 89</h4>


    An Jingzhi also understand the reason behind this, sighed helplessly: "I also know this matter is sorry to ZhiXia, and I have severed all the rtionships that should be severed, but after all that is a child we raised with our own hands..."


    After speaking, he added: "Forget it, just do as Dad said."


    The dead are dead, but the living still have to live.


    An Jingzhi has always been good at weighing the pros and cons.


    Just didn''t expect that after he finished speaking, he turned his head and saw ZhiXia standing at the door.


    He was instantly a little panicked in his heart, and exined: "ZhiXia, don''t think too much about it. After all, you are still Dad and Mom''s own daughter. Our family must prioritize your matters first before ZhiYun. We are just considering the past feelings for her..."


    ZhiXia was not angry at all, really not angry at all.


    Probably because she was disappointed too many times, she didn''t even feel surprised.


    "I don''t care, your things have nothing to do with me, just do whatever makes you happy." ZhiXia said calmly and went back. She happened toe out at the wrong time.


    An Jingzhi walked towards her, wanting to exin a few more sentences.


    "Stand there." The old man scolded him and asked, "What are you going to do now? Aren''t you making the child feel worse? Look at what you said! You consider the past feelings for that person, then have you ever had any feelings for your own daughter?"


    An Jingzhi only felt dizzy and ufortable in his head, especially when ZhiXia said it had nothing to do with them. After thinking about it, he still turned back, took out an envelope from his arms and handed it to the old man, "Dad, this is the dowry money we originally prepared for ZhiXia. She went home at noon today, and probably left it on the table. Her mother and I thought about it and added some more. Please give it to her."


    He was thinking that she must feel it was too little.


    It wasn''t that An Jingzhi was unwilling to give it, he just wasn''t that wealthy himself.


    He knew about the assets here with the old man, but those things couldn''t be used for now. His children all had jobs, but their family was more open-minded, and the children also handed in some living expenses every month, keeping the rest themselves.


    Zhou Nan didn''t work, and with An Jingzhi''s sry alone, in addition to expenses he would asionally subsidize the children''s food and clothing expenses. And apart from the eldest, none of them were married yet, so it was impossible for him to take out all his money.


    In fact, the original 500 yuan he prepared for ZhiXia already contained an element ofpensation. Even when his eldest son got married, he only gave 50 yuan for the bride price, and spent about 200 yuan to buy some other things.


    His and Zhou Nan''s original n was that all their children''s weddings would follow this amount. The extra amount, they could pay for themselves. After all, they had their own sries saved up, so they had money.


    In this regard, he was still quite fair.


    But he didn''t know that ZhiXia never cared about money. There were some things that no amount of money couldpensate for.


    The old man looked at the envelope in his hand, and was so angry that he couldn''t catch his breath and coughed violently.


    An Jingzhi hurried to help him pat his back and help him breathe smoothly, but was pushed away by the old man as soon as he caught his breath.


    "An Jingzhi, 500 yuan can be left on the table. You''ve been a teacher for decades, don''t tell me you don''t know what that means!" The old man knew clearly that ZhiXia must have been thoroughly disappointed in these parents.


    Of course An Jingzhi could guess what it meant, but at this time, he could only pretend to be ignorant.


    The 1,000 yuan was left in the end, but even when the old man gave it to ZhiXia, she didn''t ept it.


    It wasn''t that she didn''t give Grandpa face, it was just that she really couldn''t ept thispensation.


    The family she had longed to return to so much had now be a quagmire that trapped her feet deeply.


    The only thing she looked forward to now was the wedding the day after tomorrow, which would eliminate the crisis posed by the An family. After the wedding she would leave this ce and restart her own life.


    This was not avoidance, it was just thoroughly discarding something that never belonged to her in the first ce.


    She called this... cutting losses in time.


    Before she had time to invest any feelings.


    Perhaps she should thank them for showing her where she stood in this family as soon as she returned, so she wouldn''t have too high expectations and it would be easier for her to break away.


    Things of the past are like yesterday''s death; things of the future are like today''s life.


    She should focus her mind on her own marriage and family, manage them well, and live a happy life.


    And her cute little one in her belly, ZhiXia thought, she would definitely be a good mother in the future, and protect her child well and shelter it to grow up safely.


    ZhiXia smiled calmly, and continued knitting the sweater.


    Grandma must have known about what happened just now. She came over and said a lot to ZhiXia.


    Even at this time, she didn''t ask ZhiXia to forgive An Jingzhi no matter what, so ZhiXia really really liked this grandma.


    Grandpa, grandma, and fourth brother were the only pirs she didn''t regreting back to this family for.


    The next morning, An Zhiren and An Zhixian came over together before breakfast.


    ZhiXia had just gotten up not long ago. An Zhiren handed her a long box, "My third brother and I got this for you as a gift for the wedding preparations. I heard you''ve been learning to read, this is a fountain pen. I hope you study well in the future, if you have anything you don''t understand you cane ask me. As your second brother I''m a teacher, so I have more experience in teaching students."


    "Oh please, that''s how you act at school, but you''re still like this at home. She''s your sister, not your student." An Zhixian rolled his eyes, and also handed something to ZhiXia, "This is a radio from third brother. See if you like it, we don''t know what you like either, just tell us if you need anything, don''t be shy."


    ZhiXia thought for a moment, and epted the gifts, sweetly saying: "Then thank you second and third brother."


    "You''re wee, it''s only right." An Zhixian nudged An Zhiren''s arm, "Didn''t sister-inw tell you to bring money too? Hurry and take it out!"


    An Zhiren was so immersed in ZhiXia''s smile he really almost forgot about that. Flustered, he took out 20 yuan from his pocket, "This is from sister-inw. She said since we got you gifts, she won''t buy anything, so this money is for you to buy whatever you need."


    Actually, she had originally wanted to give fabric, but didn''t have ration tickets.


    Recently all the fabric ration tickets at home had been taken by Zhou Nan, she couldn''t even borrow any. She could only give money to show intent for now, nning to make it up to ZhiXia with fabricter when she had a chance.


    "Then please thank sister-inw for me." Big brother and fourth brother weren''t here, but big sister-inw and the other two brothers were very generous.


    ZhiXia remembered their thoughtfulness in her heart.


    The two of them were rushing to work, and had specially asked for leave tomorrow for the wedding, so they hurriedly ate some breakfast and rushed off.


    ZhiXia didn''t go anywhere else this day except at noon when Liang Zhiwei asked her to go to the restaurant to handle the handover work.


    Liang Zhiwei gave her 500 yuan. ZhiXia knew he must have sold it for more than that price, but didn''t say it outright.


    Liang Zhiwei was the director of the Ideological Work Department. Although this position didn''t have much real power, there was a lot of room for maneuvering. No one dared to look down on him.


    Better to offend gentlemen than viins, Liang Zhiwei was a thorough viin.


    Keeping this move against him coulde in handy someday.

 Chapter 90: Just Bury It

    <h4>Chapter 90</h4>


    Early in the morning, Zhi Xia was already up.


    She wore borrowed military uniform, with not so long hair coiled at the back of her head. After putting on the cap and pinning a big red flower on her chest, her gentle eyebrows and eyes showed a dashing spirit.


    Although borrowed, in this era being able to wear a military uniform for the wedding was a great honor.


    An Zhiren carried Zhi Xia out of the door. Because the two families were quite close, Pei Jing led Zhi Xia to take a detour on two more streets nearby before going back, with two groomsmen following behind. They were Pei Jing''s buddies. Along the way, they asionally threw candies, arousing scramble of nearby children.


    Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister hid among the crowd watching the scene. Especially Gao Dalin, his eyes were burning with anger.


    "This cheap slut is really lucky to marry into riches and honor from now on. We''ll live a good life. How can we let her go so easily?" Gao Dalin cursed and said, "That An MeiYun is also a useless thing. I was still hoping to get her to arrange jobs for us by pestering her. Now, she died herself in such a miserable way."


    Being detained and stung to death by poisonous insects in broad daylight, it would be a joke to say it out.


    Gao Dalin even suspected someone had done it on purpose. Otherwise how could the poisonous insects sting her alone and ignore others?


    What kind of poisonous insects could kill her with one sting? He heard that she died instantly without time for rescue.


    The An family was even more excessive. A living person was gone, they just notified him to collect the corpse and only gave 20 yuan for funeral expenses.


    Bah!


    They were a dignified family, yet so stingy.


    20 yuan and they still wanted her properly buried. An JingZhi and Zhou Nan definitely didn''t expect that after Gao MeiYun''s corpse was taken back by them, she was not even buried in their family cemetery. She was directly buried in a hole dug in the wild hills, without even a tombstone, just covered evenly as if she was trash.


    Gao Second Sister was also jealous, but she hadpletely inherited Gao Dazhuang''s deep and sinister heart. She knew that just the two siblings were absolutely unable to cause any harm to the current Zhi Xia.


    People should know their limits. When powerless, they had to be honest, otherwise they would end up like Gao MeiYun.


    She didn''t want to die yet, so she forcibly persuaded the furious Gao Dalin to go back first and talkter.


    When they went to collect MeiYun''s corpse from the An family yesterday, she took the opportunity to visit her room and found something nice.


    With this stuff, she didn''t have to worry about hard days in the future.


    What she needed to do now was wait, wait patiently.


    With the sound of firecrackers crackling, Zhi Xia was weed through the door of the Pei house.


    The wedding banquet held by the Pei family was not sumptuous at all, with only three tables in total. One table was upied by the bride''s family, one table was for the bride, and there was only one table left for their close rtives and friends.


    However, many neighbors came to join the fun. Afraid someone might make troubles, Old Pei had made preparations early and asked Wen Qing toe along too. Zhi Xia held him in her arms all the time.


    Zhi Xia didn''t have many girl friends either. Old Pei had asked the Zhou family to bring Zhou Zhi Zhi and Zhou Yuanyuan along. Plus Pei Xiang who took up the task, the three girls surrounded Zhi Xia all the time and protected her well.


    At the toast, her cup was also filled with tea.


    Although not grand, the wedding proceeded very smoothly.


    It was over in half a day. Other people also left.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi and Zhou Yuanyuan worked together to add two pillowcases for Zhi Xia, which was the most expensive gift they could offer.


    When the Zhou family people left, the two girls reluctantly followed to leave.


    Zhi Xia thought perhaps she should be grateful that Gao MeiYun''s unpleasantness in the past left no one in the family missing her after she returned, except her biological parents who couldn''t bear to part with Gao MeiYun.


    While Zhi Xia was gentle and likeable, she obtained the love of all family members except her parents.


    Although her second and third brother were a little indifferent, they were also very generous to her and never opposed her.


    Zhi Xia could avoid drinking, but Pei Jing really couldn''t escape and was tricked by the groomsmen to drink quite some.


    Fortunately everyone was appropriate and didn''t really let him get drunk, just a slightly flushed face.


    Seeing everyone leaving, Pei Jing also breathed a sigh of relief.


    Old Pei went up to him and said, "Today''s wedding was a bit shabby. I discussed it with Grandpa An beforehand that with the raging chaos recently caused by the special agents, it would be inappropriate for us to celebrate extravagantly. So we could only do it this way. Go back and exin more to Zhi Xia. Although it is understandable, she was still wronged. And you, getting married makes you an adult. Zhi Xia is still young. As a man, you should take on more responsibility for the family. Be nicer to her in daily life instead of frowning all the time. Even an old man like me feels upset seeing that, let alone a youngdy. Understand?"


    Pei Jing looked at the old man and nodded.


    But he sighed helplessly in his heart.


    He had long known marriage would be troublesome and never thought about it. Even urged by superiors in the army and elders at home, he remained unaffected.


    But in the end, he still couldn''t escape this hurdle.


    He was also confused about the future.


    As a man, he would naturally not neglect his due responsibilities. But due to his profession, he also deeply understood his own ws.


    Zhi Xia was still young. He could indulge and dote on her when with her, but he would also have times away from her, having to face household trifles and childcare alone.


    Also, he didn''t know if he could satisfy her. Facing the harsh environment over there after going to the army, could she still stick to her ce?


    The future had not happened yet but he had to consider it in advance.


    Inside the new room, many melon seed shells were thrown around and children ran around making the table very messy.


    Pei Xiang came over with a broom to sweep the floor. Zhi Xia tidied up the table. The two chatted andughed harmoniously.


    Pei Xiang had just finished sweeping and put away the broom. Pei Shuangshuang came in frowning, "We are so busy outside and you get to rx here?"


    The bowls, chopsticks and tables borrowed from neighbors for the wedding had to be washed clean and returned, without extra help hired for the simple wedding. So currently no one in the Pei family was free.


    "How am I rxing, I was about to go out after sweeping the floor." Pei Xiang said and then told Zhi Xia: "Sister-inw, you don''t have to go out. I''ll go help."


    She wasn''tzy. Grandpa had asked her to stay with sister-inw today.


    As for Pei Shuangshuang, Old Pei knew her reckless personality was simply unsuitable for this task.


    Pei Shuangshuang was still dissatisfied and wanted to provoke her more, but Pei Jing came in so she didn''t dare say anything else, only turning around to leave.


    She was somewhat dissatisfied with Zhi Xia. Just shortly before, she had heard her mother urging her elder brother to please Zhi Xia, saying a skinny camel was still bigger than a horse, who knew how many good stuff the An family hid in secret, plus the guilt of An''s elder couple towards Zhi Xia. Marrying this daughter-inw back would definitely be worthwhile.


    But then, she heard Zhi Xia didn''t be her sister-inw, but instead became her auntie.


    Pei Shuangshuang had originally nned that if Zhi Xia really married her elder brother, she would certainly try to get on Zhi Xia''s good side if there were any treasures in her hands. But now all ns fell through.

 Chapter 91: That gorgeous look almost made him blink.

    <h4>Chapter 91</h4>


    Pei Shuangshuang''s beloved sister-inw had be her aunt, so she didn''t dare make trouble for her little uncle!


    These were all the thoughts in Pei Shuangshuang''s mind. Zhi Xia really didn''t know. Even if she did know, she would probably justugh at her for her wild fantasies.


    They didn''t even dare touch the An family''s things when it was their own family. As outsiders, they were the first to covet those things.


    Zhi Xia had just finished arranging the things on the table when she heard Pei Xiang call out "Little uncle!" She then noticed that Pei Jing hade in.


    Turning to look, he stood in the doorway. The nting sunshine shone on him,plementing his military uniform and adding a hint of sacred radiance to his slightly intoxicated appearance.


    Zhi Xia walked over and grabbed his arm, trying to make her actions seem as natural as possible. But in reality, her heart was still nervous.


    Adding up her two lifetimes, apart from that one time she was controlled by drugs, this was still the first time she had taken the initiative to get close to a man.


    "How are you, did you drink too much?" Zhi Xia saw him be coerced by his two friends into drinking several cups. Not knowing his alcohol tolerance, she asked, "Do you feel unwell? Do you need toe in and rest first?"


    The moment Zhi Xia''s hand touched his arm, the muscles in Pei Jing''s body also reflexively tensed up.


    But remembering Old Pei''s recent admonitions, afraid of frightening the youngdy with too extreme a reaction, he could only force himself to calm down.


    His adam''s apple rolled as he didn''t make a sound, following Zhi Xia into the room.


    His usually tidy room looked a little messy now. The tofu on the bed had also been reced with new bedding printed with mandarin ducks ying in the water. Double happiness papercuts were pasted to the headboard, and two pillows were neatly ced side by side against the headboard and draped with red pillowcases, everything exuding an air of joy.


    Pei Jing wasn''t drunk at all. Upon entering the room, he stopped Zhi Xia from supporting him and said, "Don''t worry, I''m not drunk."


    He wasn''t a talkative person to begin with, and had no idea what else to say.


    After a brief silence, he remembered Old Pei''s instructions and said, "These past few days the authorities have been searching everywhere for spies, so the wedding reception is very simple. Don''t take offense."


    "I''m not offended. I know," Zhi Xia said with a smile. "I''m not an unreasonable child. Pei Jing, from now on I''m your wife."


    Although she was young in years, getting married made her an adult. He couldn''t keep treating her like a fragile doll.


    Zhi Xia''s earnest appearance made Pei Jing''s heart stir. He nodded and said, "Mm, then you rest in the room. I''ll go out and help first. If there''s anything you don''t understand, call for me, or call Pei Xiang too."


    "Should I go out and help too?" Zhi Xia asked.


    "No need, you rest. It''s all trifling matters, no need for you to get involved." Pei Jing said.


    Zhi Xia hadn''t intended on going out to help anyway. As the new bride, it was unreasonable for her to start working as soon as she entered the household. But it was still necessary to make a polite offer.


    If Pei Jing had really agreed to let her go out, it could only mean one of two things - either he was aplete blockhead, or he didn''t care one bit about her.


    Clearly neither of those were the case, so Zhi Xia was very satisfied.


    It was just that he always had such a stern expression, making Zhi Xia somewhat apprehensive. She was afraid too much enthusiasm would annoy him, while too much aloofness wouldn''t be conducive to developing their rtionship.


    Now that they were married, Zhi Xia still wanted to have a good life together. She didn''t like living in cold formality. If they were only together purely for the sake of having a child, that would be quite disappointing.


    The courtyard was being swept outside. Although water had been sprinkled, it still stirred up a lot of dust.


    Zhi Xia hurriedly went to close the door. This time she didn''t physically enter her space, but manipted it with her consciousness.


    She, who had absolutely zero experience with romance, nned to ask someone for advice and research how she could win over the cold and aloof soldier brother before her.


    When asking others for help, one should show sincerity by giving the other party a little sweetener first.


    Unexpectedly, she received another wedding gift, two books. The genius doctor mysteriously told her they were good stuff and for her to read them together with her husband at night.


    Zhi Xia wasn''t some clueless child. She immediately guessed what kinds of books they were.


    Completely disobedient, she took them out and opened them up. Sure enough, the content was somewhat embarrassing to bring up.


    Knowing Zhi Xia was pregnant, the sex manual the genius doctor gave wasn''t depicted in normal positions, but illustrated other methods that could be used during pregnancy to satisfy normal physiological needs.


    Zhi Xia pped the book shut and didn''t dare sneak another peek.


    Heavens! She hadn''t even asked her question yet, and it was already so outrageously forward. If she did ask, the genius doctor would surely teach her to be quite a character!


    Zhi Xia''s mind shed with a streak of ck lines.


    Weren''t ancient people supposed to be very modest?


    Why did she not detect a hint of restraint at all? On the contrary, the other party was even more uninhibited than herself!


    It really made her break out in a sweat!


    The Genius Doctor: "What''s wrong? Why aren''t you speaking? Don''t tell me you snuck a peek and got frightened?"


    That shouldn''t be the case. Although she was from the modern era, a girl who dared to conceive before marriage probably wouldn''t be so conservative.


    Young Miss from the Modern Era: "No no, thank you for your kind intentions. Sister, you''re truly too good to me, I don''t even know how to repay you."


    She didn''t dare ask her remaining questions.


    The Genius Doctor: "You''re wee. I have many more good things here. Wait until you''ve given birth, then I''ll give them to you. I guarantee your future married life will be happy and perfect. If you really want to thank me, take a look over there for anything rare and just send me some at random."


    Zhi Xia!!!


    Thank you, but she didn''t dare ept.


    Crying woefully, Zhi Xia fished a big fish out of the sea and gave it to her, then silently bid her farewell.


    As for improving their marital rtions, she would slowly figure it out on her own. There was no rush anyway.


    Feeling bored cooped up in the room, Zhi Xia continued knitting the sweater. She was almost done, just needing to finish the edging and two pockets. If she made an effort this afternoon, she should be able toplete it.


    Zhi Xia was a very quick knitter, moving the needles and yarn so fast it was just a blur.


    When she was done with everything, Zhi Xia looked satisfiedly at the finished product in her hands.


    The clothes she was wearing were borrowed. She took them off and changed into a long-sleeved red dress that reached her calves. A sash was tied at her slender waist, and a short outer jacket on top, both the style and fabric exceptional, setting off her originally fair skin to appear even more luminous.


    Zhi Xia let down her pinned up hair and tied it into a loose, messy fish tail braid stopping at the nape of her neck, securing it there with a hair tie. The front fringe was fixed neatly in ce with a hair clip, only letting a few strands hang loosely in a casual style.


    Looking at herself in the mirror, she looked quite good.


    She put the military uniform she''d changed out of into the space washing machine to wash, not rushing to take it out and hang dry, because she still needed to put on a show of hanging it outside to dry tonight.


    Time always flew fastest when one was busy. Pei Jing knocked on the door to call her out for dinner.


    When Zhi Xia opened the door, her alluring appearance nearly made Pei Jing''s eyes sh.

 Chapter 92: Is it impossible

    <h4>Chapter 92</h4>


    Her softly arched willow leaf eyebrows were lightly touched up, making her eyes appear even more gentle.


    Seeing the astonishment in his eyes, Zhi Xia was very satisfied. She deliberately asked in a mischievous way, "Do I look good?"


    "Yeah, let''s go eat." Pei Jing lightly coughed unnaturally and said before turning around and leaving.


    Zhi Xia frowned, seemingly dissatisfied with his perfunctory attitude, but she still followed his footsteps.


    The Pei family had not yet divided up, and apart from the eldest son Pei Yong who was not there, the rest were all present, filling up arge table.


    After greeting everyone, Zhi Xia sat next to Pei Jing. Old Pei started eating first before everyone else began.


    The Pei family had no rules about not speaking during meals or sleep. Everyone chimed in, and it was very lively, mostly teasing Zhi Xia and Pei Jing. She could only smile shyly without saying anything.


    After the meal, Zhi Xia hung the washed clothes out to dry outside.


    In the autumn breeze, they would probably be dry overnight.


    Seeing her return to the room, Pei Jing helplessly sighed and went to the front gate instead.


    Old Pei had been observing his youngest son''s actions all along while eating. Seeing him like this now, he was even more worried.


    After waiting for a while without seeing anyonee back, he was both angry and helpless.


    He asked the maid to call Pei Sheng from the second room over and said to Old Pei, "Pei Jing went out. Go find him. Today is the big wedding day. Leaving the new bride alone in the room, what is this about!"


    Old Pei had originally intended for his grandson Pei JianGuo to propose to Zhi Xia, but he also knew that the silly boy had some feelings for a girl raised by the An family, so he had hesitated all along.


    Fortunately he had never joked about it before, otherwise it would have been awkward.


    But Old Pei always believed that no matter who Zhi Xia married, with Uncle An''s rtionship, she would be like his own child, and no one could bully her.


    Pei Sheng rubbed his hands and still couldn''t help it. "Dad, I''ve always been quite puzzled and didn''t dare ask. How did you and Uncle An think of marrying Little Jing and Zhi Xia together?"


    He definitely didn''t believe the two had fallen for each other, especially with their difference in seniority. And looking at his brother''s attitude, he didn''t seem to like her that much either, seeming more troubled instead.


    "If you don''t dare to ask then don''t ask," Old Pei red at him. "Just do as you''re told. And, Pei Jing has never interacted with girls before either. You... give him more pointers, instead of wandering around not knowing what to do."


    This marriage had worried Old Pei to death, and in just a few days, more white hair had grown on his head.


    This child Pei Jing had always been awkward. Growing up like this, he had never heard of him getting close to any girl. He was afraid he would just leave her be purely out of responsibility, having married her back.


    And Zhi Xia was still young, certainly not knowing how to handle men either.


    Over time, how could problems not arise?


    Sure enough, it was only the first day and it was already so worrying.


    Pei Sheng, full of doubts, went out, and Pei Jing was smoking at the door, with many cigarette butts already on the ground.


    "Dad asked me toe find you. Why are you doing this? On your big happy day, not going back to apany your new bride, hiding alone at the door to smoke, what''s going on? Not satisfied with your sister-inw?" Pei Sheng patted his arm and took a cigarette to light up with a match. Exhaling smoke, he said, "I really can''t figure out you and Dad''s thoughts, randomly saying you''re getting married, bringing her back, and now you''re like this."


    If he wasn''t so familiar with his younger brother''s personality, he would have even thought that he had secretly gotten the girl pregnant, so he still married her despite the awkward rtionship.


    Pei Jing nced at his second brother. He fiercely sucked on the cigarette again before flicking away the butt. "It''s not that I''m dissatisfied. I just don''t know...how to get along with her."


    He looked intently at Pei Sheng, actually wanting to ask for advice.


    Usually when he was alone in the room, he didn''t really do anything, just reading books and organizing some things at times.


    But suddenly there was another person in the room, and he always felt awkward, as if there was no ce for him to step, also not knowing what to do.


    Busy with his own things yet afraid of neglecting the other, but with her...he really didn''t know what to say.


    Pei Jing''s worries made Pei Sheng snicker.


    "My silly little brother, on the night of the nuptials, you''re telling me you don''t know how to get along with your new bride?" Pei Sheng finally stoppedughing with difficulty, cleared his throat, and solemnly looked at Pei Jing, sizing him up with puzzlement. Suddenly he had a bad premonition. "Little Jing, tell your second brother the truth, you can''t be...not functional right?"


    He vaguely remembered that night long ago when it was his turn, after getting rid of the rowdy people, he had...


    Ahem!


    Sensing his thoughts bing indecent, Pei Sheng''s old face turned red.


    "You''re overthinking." Pei Jing really regretted telling him about this, but he also didn''t expect his second brother to think in that direction.


    He stubbed out the cigarette with his foot and turned to go back in.


    Pei Sheng''s cigarette was only half-smoked. Not knowing whether to throw it or keep it, he fiercely sucked onest breath before putting it out and stuffing the rest in his pocket.


    When Pei Jing returned, he saw Zhi Xia picking melon seeds and red dates out of the bedding. She had already washed up, with some dampness still on the hair by her forehead. She had also changed into another set of clothes. The red strappy nightgown still revealed arge area of fair skin on her chest despite the outeryer of a light coat, as well as her slender neck and legs.


    "You''re back. Where did you go just now? I waited and didn''t see you for half a day. Xiang Xiang had to bring me to wash up." Zhi Xia didn''t bring up him deliberately slipping away at all, pretending not to know.


    She knew he felt awkward inside but there was no solution for it. It wasn''t his fault either.


    She was the perpetrator, even if it wasn''t her intention.


    She had just finished speaking when she saw Pei Jing suddenly turn around, his body also stiffening.


    "Do you want to...change clothes first?" This time Pei Jing really wasn''t avoiding her, just not daring to look.


    He was clearer than anyone that he was a normal man.


    He just felt that Zhi Xia was supposed to be his junior, yet through a twist of fate had be his wife. So he didn''t know how to face her.


    Actually there was nothing wrong with Zhi Xia''s clothes. It was just normal sleepwear in modern times. For this era it was a little revealing, but fine to wear at home.


    Zhi Xia looked down at her clothes. She wasn''t stupid, on the contrary she understood what she should.


    From the decision to marry, she had worried that Pei Jing only felt responsible and wouldter treat her as a junior to take care of.


    Once this mindset became fixed, it would be hard to change, as it would induce guilt.


    So she wanted him to have this awareness from the start - that she was his wife, not a niece who needed his care.

 Chapter 93: Back Door to Where We鈥檙e Going

    <h4>Chapter 93</h4>


    Pei Jing deliberately walked around to stand in front of her. Pretending not to know, she asked, "Why do you want to change? These are my pajamas, it will be morefortable to sleep in them."


    Looking at the innocent-looking Zhi Xia, Pei Jing let out a long sigh. His gaze also shifted left and right as he said, "Do as you wish. I just feel it''s not convenient to go out like this. Go to sleep first, I''ll go out and wash up."


    He didn''t know if Zhi Xia really didn''t understand or was just pretending, but now that she was pregnant, she shouldn''t be so ignorant of the ways of the world.


    Dressed like that, how could she not know how tempting it would be for a man?


    But he really couldn''t argue, because at the moment, they were already married.


    Perhaps his mindset hadn''t changed yet, so he still felt very awkward.


    Anyway, they were leaving tomorrow, he would just have to get through tonight.


    Pei Jing usually slept wearing a vest and long pants. Maybe because he was afraid of offending Zhi Xia, today he deliberately wore short sleeves and autumn pants.


    After all his dilly-dallying, by the time he came back, Zhi Xia was already lying in bed.


    He hesitated for a moment, then lifted the quilt andy on the outside.


    Although they were sleeping in the same quilt, there was still a gap between them and no contact at all.


    Pei Jing turned off the light and heard Zhi Xia ask him in the darkness, "Do you dislike me?"


    Pei Jing was taken aback and frowned. "No, why would you think that?"


    "Because you''ve been avoiding me all day," Zhi Xia said sadly. "Actually I also know that I''ve wronged you a lot. For you, this must all be very confusing. Getting injured and then running into such misfortune. At first I didn''t admit it because I didn''t want to disturb you, so my attitude towards you wasn''t very good either. But then I got pregnant and needed you to take responsibility. So I''m also very sorry. But I feel that since things have be like this, we have to face life with hope in order to be happy. I''m trying to get close to you, so please don''t keep pushing me away, okay?"


    Pei Jing sighed. "I''m not rejecting you, don''t overthink it. I just haven''t adapted to married life yet, I should be the one apologizing."


    "So you don''t dislike me?" There was a hint of slyness in Zhi Xia''s eyes.


    "I don''t dislike you. I got a beautiful wife for free, I should be happy." Pei Jing couldn''t help butugh as he remembered when hispanion had found him afterwards and he told him what happened, but hispanion had justughed at him.


    Zhi Xia turned her body and pushed her luck. "Then hug me."


    In the darkness of the night, Pei Jing''s face turned red as he said, "Zhi Xia, you''re still pregnant, it''s not appropriate."


    "I just want you to hug me, not do anything else. No one has hugged me before, so how is it inappropriate?" Zhi Xia nudged his arm. "You''re not thinking something naughty, are you?"


    After she finished speaking, she deliberately moved closer and reached for his hands folded over his stomach.


    Pei Jing''s body was noticeably stiff, she could feel how tense his muscles were, but he endured without jerking away.


    Zhi Xia ced his hand on her small belly and asked him, "Our baby is in here, don''t you want to touch him? Hey, would you favor boys over girls? Do you want a son or a daughter? If I give birth to a girl, will you dislike her?"


    For a long time, Zhi Xia kept making small talk.


    From Pei Jing''s initial tension to eventual rxation, he also started imagining what it would be like when the child was born.


    As a first time dad, it was impossible not to be curious. He didn''t touch her belly because he didn''t dare, and was restraining himself from giving in to the urge.


    But Zhi Xia''s enthusiasm still put him at ease. At the very least, he could feel that she was being genuine and didn''t dislike his touch.


    Pei Jing''s hands were big, just the right size resting on her small belly. The warm feeling also made Zhi Xia feel warm and a littlefortable.


    Pei Jing wiggled his fingers, also finding it hard to imagine that a child was actually living inside here.


    With the child as a topic, both of them rxed and Pei Jing also turned on his side, which was a good position to touch her belly.


    "I don''t favor boys over girls. Whether it''s a son or daughter doesn''t matter, but I do hope it will be a boy, because it''s very tough being the oldest daughter in the family." Pei Jing''s mother was the eldest daughter in her family. When he was little, it was just the two of them relying on each other. He often heard her talk about her childhood.


    Because she was the eldest daughter and not doted on, plus having to take care of her younger siblings, she was always busy since she was young.


    Of the siblings, she did the most work, had the roughest hands, and was scolded the most. She was also married offst. His father''s reason for marrying his mother was that the family was poor and wanted to marry a capable daughter-inw.


    Pei Jing''s mother really suffered her whole life. Even when things got better, her health couldn''t keep up and she passed away, still saying on her deathbed that she was never fated for a good life.


    If Pei Jing had a daughter, he would definitely not let her be like his mother. He would cherish and love her well.


    But still, as he said, he would often not be home. Whether it was the eldest son or daughter, they would share the responsibility of helping to take care of the family, rather than leaving everything to Zhi Xia alone.


    Pei Jing thought it would be best to have a son first, then have a daughterter when the son is older. That way it wouldn''t be too tiring to take care of them.


    But in their current state where they weren''t too familiar with each other yet, it wasn''t appropriate for him to discuss his inner thoughts with Zhi Xia.


    "Don''t think too much about it. Go to sleep, we have to get up early tomorrow to leave," Pei Jing patted Zhi Xia''s shoulder and straightened his own body to sleep.


    The faint fragrance emanating from her side kept wafting into his nose. He felt an unrestrained urge threatening to erupt.


    When Zhi Xia woke up, she reflexively reached out beside her, only to find that the warmth was gone and he was no longer by her side.


    She sat up, got dressed and got out of bed. Pei Jing was indeed no longer in the room.


    Opening the door, she saw Wang Yue washing up in the yard. Zhi Xia called out, "Sister-inw."


    Wang Yue nodded slightly, but was clearly not enthusiastic towards her.


    Second sister-inw Jiang Su walked over tofort her, "Sister-inw is just like that. After giving birth to a son she acts high and mighty, looking down on everyone. Let''s not bother with her."


    Zhi Xia smiled. "I know, thanks Second Sister-inw."


    Jiang Su was clearly worried that she would feel bad and said, "Hurry and wash up, breakfast will be ready soon. You and Third Brother are taking the afternoon train, you should go back and see your parents before you leave right? That ce you''re going is a bit remote, make sure you prepare everything you need, in case you can''t buy it when you get there."


    Zhi Xia thanked her again before Jiang Su left to get busy.


    Pei JianGuo''s room was next to hers. Maybe he had learned his lesson after being scolded by Pei Jingst time. When he saw Zhi Xia, he politely called her Auntie.


    Zhi Xia didn''t make things difficult for him and readily acknowledged him.


    After breakfast, Grandpa had the maid prepare things for them to bring back. They were originally going to stay for three more days, but now could only leave early.


    Pei Jing asked her, "Are we going to maternal Grandpa and Grandma''s ce or your parents'' ce first?"


    Logically, they should go to her parents'' home after getting married, and Grandpa and Grandma should also go there today to receive them. But since her parents lived right next door, Pei Jing really wasn''t sure what Zhi Xia was thinking.

 Chapter 94: The Return Door

    <h4>Chapter 94</h4>


    "Let''s go to grandpa and grandma''s ce," Zhi Xia said.


    Gao Meiyun was already dead, and everyone had returned to their own life trajectories. She didn''t want to continue struggling with the An Family and calcte who had a more important ce in their hearts than Gao Meiyun.


    She was content that Zhi Xia had lived another life, and for the rest of this life she just wanted to be good to herself and live well.


    Pei Jing just nodded, choosing to respect her ideas without asking more.


    The two of them carried their big and small packages next door. The olddy was happy on the surface, but worried in her heart. She hurriedly ordered Mrs. Zhou to go buy groceries.


    Pei Jing was talking to the old man in the yard. Zhi Xia was pulled into the room by the olddy.


    "How are things in their home? Are you used to it yet?" the olddy asked Zhi Xia.


    Zhi Xia hugged the olddy''s arm and nodded with a satisfied smile. "It''s great. Pei Jing is very good to me. My sister-inw and Xiang Xiang are also very considerate of me. Don''t worry, grandma. I will definitely get better and better in the future."


    "That''s good, that''s good," the olddy said.


    Last night the old man had said he saw Pei Jing standing alone at the front gate smoking. His granddaughter had married into another family, and he was afraid of seeming overly dramatic, so he didn''t dare go up and ask.


    Only after he came back and said this, she had felt uneasy all night and barely slept.


    Now, hearing this from Zhi Xia and seeing the smile on the girl''s face, she seemed reassured atst.


    The olddy took another package out of the cab and gave it to Zhi Xia. "This package contains the cotton jackets I made for you. I heard it''s very cold over there. Don''t think that just because it''s started getting cold here, you might need the cotton jackets as soon as you arrive. There are also two pieces of thin cotton cloth. Your belly can''t be exposed right now, so I was worried that making small clothes would lead others to specte, so I could only prepare cloth for you. After you get there and a few months have passed, you can share your pregnancy. Then make clothes for the child yourself. Who knows when you''ll be able toe back after this trip. The baby can''t be born without clothes to wear. Your mother-inw left early, and you''re still young yourself. Your mother is unreliable. Never mind, I won''t mention her. When you give birth next year, if my health is still good, I wille to help you through the month after childbirth..."


    The olddy''s rambling words sounded warm and touching to Zhi Xia. Her nose felt sour, and tears wanted to well up even though she tried to hold them back.


    She wasn''t sad, but felt distressed and satisfied at the same time.


    But at this moment, no more words could fully convey her inner feelings. She could only hug the olddy tightly and murmur: "Grandma, you''re so good to me that I don''t even want to leave. I want to stay by your side forever."


    "You''re my granddaughter. Of course I should treat you well!" The olddy also held Zhi Xia tightly, distressed. "After you get there, don''t forget to write grandma often, and don''t forget to take care of yourself. Read more books and gain knowledge when you have time. It''s always good. If you don''t understand, ask Little Jing. He''s been outstanding since he was little and is a responsible man. Your grandpa and I feel quite reassured about this. You should also be good and don''t quarrel with him over trivial things. Discuss properly together..."


    The olddy talked heart to heart with Zhi Xia for a while. Before leaving, she still said: "Zhi Xia, grandma knows why you came here today. Grandpa and grandma don''t dislike you. We''re only happy that you came. Grandma is also angry at how muddled your parents are, and understands that this situation isn''t your fault. It''s because they couldn''t handle their own positions that they hurt you. Don''t me grandma for being long-winded. Standing in grandma''s position, of course I hope that you and your dad don''t be estranged. But I also don''t want my granddaughter to alwayspromise herself. Your paternal grandparents will also scold him. You should...give him another chance, okay?"


    The olddy kept watching Zhi Xia''s expression. Just now when Zhi Xia came back, she was both happy and angry.


    She was happy that her granddaughter and grandson-inw had returned, but angry that her son and daughter-inw had acted so foolishly that they had hurt this child in the end, and she didn''t know if there was still room to reconcile.


    Zhi Xia understood the olddy''s meaning and didn''t want to make it hard for her to be caught in the middle, so she nodded right away. "Don''t worry, grandma. I''m not an unreasonable person. I still respect the monk though I can''t respect the temple. You''ll always be my good grandma."


    But that didn''t mean they would still be her good parents.


    Zhi Xia could say these words only tofort the olddy''s heart. Actually, she was leaving this afternoon and wouldn''t be back for a long time. She wouldn''t have much connection with the An Family anymore.


    But even for the sake of the olddy and master, she couldn''t sever this rtionshippletely.


    Zhi Xia didn''t have the heart to let them worry about the rtionship between her and her family at such an old age.


    The olddy didn''t actually feelforted by Zhi Xia''s understanding. On the contrary, she felt full of guilt.


    Because she understood clearly that Zhi Xia wasn''t willing to forgive An Jingzhi at all. She was only not taking offense for the sake of the olddy.


    And she, under the guise of loving concern, had said these words to her, when in essence she also hoped Zhi Xia would forgive her father for her own face.


    "Go back to your room and rest for now. Grandma will go see if Mrs. Zhou is back yet." The olddy left after speaking.


    Zhi Xia also took the package full of love back to her room.


    She took out the dowry box the olddy had given her from her space ring. She had to take it openly.


    Pei Jing came in from outside and said to Zhi Xia: "I''ll go back and pack our luggage first. Do you need help organizing things here?"


    Yesterday when Zhi Xia came over she had brought two changes of clothes. Since it was close by and they were leaving this afternoon anyway, she just left them to pack today.


    Hearing Pei Jing, she replied: "You go back and pack. I can organize things here myself. Oh right, I stuffed my pajamas in the cab this morning. Help me bring those, and the military uniform hanging by the door. Bring that too when youe back. I still have to return it to someone."


    Pei Jing agreed to everything and then left.


    Zhi Xia was still wearing that red cheongsam dress. The bright red color was very vibrant and festive. But thinking that she would take the train this afternoon, she had left a change of clothes while packing, nning to switch after eating.


    Boarding the train in this bright red outfit would be too eye-catching. She didn''t want that kind of attention.


    As for luggage, it was better if she packed it herself so she''d have room to cheat. Pei Jing didn''t know what she had, so there would be room to maneuver when she took things out after arriving.


    Zhi Xia really didn''tck for things. Just the clothes the olddy had recently made for her, thick and thin together, were considerable.


    The olddy had finally found something to do recently, using up the fabric ration stamps she had umted over a long time all at once. She had also exchanged a lot with others, and used it all on clothes and bedding for Zhi Xia.


    Thinking of this, Zhi Xia felt even more reluctant to leave them.

 Chapter 95: When the disappointment is enough, there is no nostalgia.

    <h4>Chapter 95</h4>


    Zhixia was lost in thought in her room, while Old Master and Old Madam were wearing worried looks on their faces in the courtyard.


    "I told Zhixia to give her dad another chance for my sake, and though she agreed, I still feel uneasy about it - in the end we have wronged the child," said Old Madam with a tinge of regret, also resenting herself for mentioning those things.


    Old Master sighed, also feeling bad inside.


    It was already annoying enough that their son and daughter-inw were muddleheaded and wouldn''t listen to advice, but their granddaughter''s excessive thoughtfulness made one''s heart ache even more - they were really caught in a dilemma.


    "What''s said is said, don''t think too much about it. Children have their own blessings, let them deal with their own father-daughter issues themselves. Whether the oue is good or bad, others can''t be med for it. We''re old now, let''s not get too involved. Zhixia is a child one feels for already, so don''t bring up anything that puts her in a difficult position," said Old Master.


    When noon approached and An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan were still unable to see Zhixia at home, they realized she wouldn''t be going over there, so they came over here instead.


    Sure enough, Zhou Nan''s wife was busy cooking in the kitchen when they arrived.


    Zhixia had also finished packing her things and came out. Zhou Nan''s face was pale and lifeless. An Jingzhi said she had been sick with a high feverst night, which had just subsided before they came over.


    He said this for Zhixia to hear, but their issues no longer stirred the slightest ripple in her heart.


    Zhixia called Wen Qing to take him out to the yard to y.


    Seeing Zhixia''s indifferent expression when she heard Zhou Nan was sick, as well as her cheerful back view, Zhou Nan suddenly felt as if she had lost something.


    No, she should say she never had it to begin with.


    Old Madam watched her expression from the side and reminded her, "Feelings are mutual. Even the best rapport cannot withstand erosion. Some people aren''t temperamental, they''re just waiting - waiting until disappointment umtes enough that there are no lingering feelings left."


    An Jingzhi knew what Old Madam meant. He helplessly reminded her from the side, "Mom, Zhou Nan is still sick, she already feels bad."


    "s!" Old Madam sighed. "Forget it, forget it, I won''t interfere anymore either, you husband and wife can do as you please."


    She suddenly felt somewhat relieved that Zhixia was perceptive, otherwise with such muddled parents, who knows what would have be of her.


    She also regretted speaking those words in the room earlier - she shouldn''t have said them. Looking closely at her son and daughter-inw, they really weren''t worth Zhixia investing real feelings into.


    It was better this way, with nothing in her heart so she wouldn''t get hurt. It was just a pity for the child.


    An Jingzhi looked at Pei Jing, who was pondering beside him, and thought it still felt strange that the man who had always called him brother had suddenly be his son-inw.


    "Pei Jing, you also understand Zhixia''s background. These past days, it was us who were indecisive and hurt Zhixia''s feelings. Since she has married you, it must have been fate. Zhixia still feels somewhat reluctant, so if you get the chance, you should advise her more. Her mother and I don''t intend to neglect her, and will definitely make up for it in the future." An Jingzhi took out the envelope he had prepared and handed it to Pei Jing. "This is her dowry from us. The child was upset with us these past couple days and refused to ept it, so please keep it for her."


    Pei Jing had grown up under An Jingzhi''s oversight. Back when Pei Jing was in school, it was An Jingzhi who had personally brought him out into the world, so he had always respected him greatly.


    But at this moment, he seemed to understand why Zhixia was willing to abandon the good life here and follow him to join the army instead.


    At the same time, thepassion he already held for Zhixia also increased.


    His gaze turned to the courtyard. Zhixia had just helped Wen Qing change into the colorful sweater she knitted. The bright color delighted the little guy and sent him running wildly around the yard.


    Pei Jing''s eyes darkened as he said, "Since she is unwilling to ept it, we should respect her choice. What''s more, some things can''t bepensated for with only money. Dad has been teaching and nurturing people for so many years, so he should understand what the word sincerity means."


    An Jingzhi''s fingers tightened around the envelope, turning white at the joints. It seemed he hadn''t expected Pei Jing to not give him face like this.


    At the same time, he truly hadn''t imagined there woulde a day when he held money in his hand that he couldn''t give away.


    Zhou Nan supported An Jingzhi''s arm and smiled bitterly. "What Xiao Jing said makes sense. It was our mistake for neglecting Zhixia and hurting her. Mom and Dad were right that Zhixia has been well taken care of by Grandma here, and we really can''t think of how to make up for the child. We just wanted to give her more pocket money to show our feelings, and since she''ll be going with the army, she won''t be by our side often in the future either, so we just wanted to do our part."


    No matter how sensibly they exined themselves, Pei Jing still could not ept the money on Zhixia''s behalf.


    Old Master saw the two of them embarrassing themselves and angrily harrumphed before getting up and leaving.


    When noon arrived, everyone else got off work and came over here as well, since they knew Zhixia was leaving in the afternoon. Even An Zhi Xian, who normally didn''te home for lunch, deliberately returned.


    As soon as Liu Ling came in, she saw her son wearing a watermelon red sweater with aplex knitting technique that was clearly visible. On the chest was an adorably silly looking kitten, and even the two pockets were thoughtfully made.


    "Oh my, who knit this nice looking sweater? It must have taken a lot of effort!"


    Wen Qing excitedly pointed to the kitty on his chest to show Liu Ling. "Kitty is cute, auntie gave..."


    "Zhixia knit it? What skillful hands." Liu Ling generously praised her, feeling that blood ties really were a wondrous thing.


    Wen Qing was already two, and had called that woman auntie countless times, yet had never received the slightest good from her. Instead, she would secretly bully the child. As expected, those not of your own blood don''t cherish you.


    This blood-rted young auntie was different. Although she hadn''t been back long, the innate delight she showed toward Wen Qing was clearly genuine. Liu Ling could tell.


    Knitting a sweater for Wen Qing now, Liu Ling wasn''t resentful over such a petty thing. She was purely happy that her son was well-liked.


    All mothers were like this - those good to their children, even if they suffered a little loss themselves, would feel sweet inside.


    This harmonious scene finally improved Old Madam''s mood somewhat.


    An Zhi Ren and An Zhi Xian sat next to Pei Jing, exchanging nces.


    Their nephew had suddenly be their elder brother-inw, which gave them a kind of rousing feeling of joy. They wanted to poke some fun, but didn''t dare due to his usual sternness.


    Pei Jing held a newspaper from the table, but wasn''t actually reading it. Instead, he was paying attention to the two people beside him.


    Seeing them monkeying around with their eyes, Pei Jing raised the corners of his lips but didn''t respond.


    An Zhi Ren suddenly spoke up. "Fourth brother still doesn''t know little sister is married right? He protected her like the apple of his eye when he was home. If he knew about this, who knows if he''d vite discipline and sneak back?"


    "You''re right, that''s not impossible," said An Zhi Xian. He suddenly asked Pei Jing, "Brother-inw, what do you think?"


    Pei Jing looked at the two, who wanted to take a jab but didn''t dare, and said, "Then we won''t tell him."


    An Zhi Xian was rendered speechless for a moment and rubbed his nose sheepishly.


    Pei Jing put down the newspaper and went out to the courtyard. An Zhi Ren scornfully looked at his brother and said, "Look at you, still called him brother-inw? He is one, after all. Would he dare object?"


    An Zhi Xian nced at him. "You make it sound so easy, howe you don''t call him that?"


    An Zhi Ren was instantly silenced.

 Chapter 96: Talk away

    <h4>Chapter 96</h4>


    During dinner, it was rtively quiet. Old Master and Old Madam said more words of exhortation for them to have a good married life. Zhou Nan and Pei Jing obediently agreed. It was harmonious.


    After dinner, Pei Jing went into the room to help Zhou Nan get her luggage. Old Madam even said to have them take the quilts too. Pei Jing''s mother was no longer alive. Old Pei was just an old man and not attentive enough. No one would prepare these things for them.


    Pei Jing said there were too many things that could not all be brought over. Old Madam then said to have them take the essentials first and leave. Whatever they couldn''t take now could be mailed to themter.


    Pei Jing thought it was still cold there and they might really need them, so he didn''t object anymore.


    An Jingzhi supported Zhou Nan in. Zhou Nan had just experienced the death of her adopted daughter. Her own daughter was also about to leave her side. She couldn''t withstand the blow and fell ill. Her sicklyplexion was barely holding up as she came in.


    "Xiao Jing, we want to talk to Zhou Nan alone. Is that okay?" Facing Zhou Nan''s impending departure seemed to evoke some pity in her. Zhou Nan''s tone was pleading.


    Pei Jing looked at Zhou Nan. Seeing Zhou Nan nod at him, he went out.


    An Jingzhi turned around and closed the door. Then he heard Zhou Nan say, "Zhou Nan, do you hate your parents that much? You don''t even want to ept our money?"


    "You''re thinking too much. Grandpa and Grandma have given me a dowry. Eldest sister-inw and my brothers have all given me wedding gifts. The Pei family has also given a bride price. Pei Jing himself has also saved quite a bit of money. I don''tck money now. My three brothers are not yet married. You should keep the money for their use." Zhou Nan had no more expectations of them, but she didn''t intend topletely fall out with them either.


    "You say we''re thinking too much, but you''re actually resentful in your heart. Otherwise, why would you ept the dowry from Grandpa and Grandma, and the wedding gifts from your brothers, yet you can''t ept what your parents give you?" Zhou Nan painfully twitched her nose. "Zhou Nan, no matter what, let''s just say it was Mom and Dad''s fault in the past. Now Meiyun is gone too. Zhou Nan, from now on Mom will only have you as a daughter. There is no question of favoritism anymore. Can you really not give us another chance?"


    An Jingzhi looked at Zhou Nanplicatedly. Probably because Zhou Nan had guessed right.


    What they had insisted on giving was mostly just to reassure themselves, and to show both families that they did care about Zhou Nan, but were in a difficult position between two daughters.


    But now, Zhou Nan had asked so bluntly, as if tearing off the fig leaf, thoroughly exposing their thoughts.


    An Jingzhi seemed to want to regain some confidence. "Your mother and I have to admit that when it came to you and Meiyun, we did unconsciously favor her. But Zhou Nan, you have to understand our position too. One was raised by us, one was our biological child. How do you think we should have acted to be most reasonable? In this child swap incident, your mother and I were the biggest victims!"


    What they said was undeniable to Zhou Nan.


    Indeed, they had invested so many years of feelings into Gao Meiyun. It was impossible for them to sever ties immediately.


    Perhaps she was very selfish, so she understood, but did not ept.


    Zhou Nan painfully twitched her nose again. "No matter what, let''s just say it was Mom and Dad''s mistake in the past. Meiyun is gone now too. Zhou Nan, from now on Mom will only have you as her daughter. There is no question of favoritism or no favoritism. Can you really not give us another chance?"


    "So, it''s precisely because I want to smooth things over from the past that I''m determined to leave here?" Zhou Nan said sarcastically, also with some relief. "I admit I lost, but I didn''t lose to her. I lost to you, I lost to the position she had in your hearts."


    What Zhou Nan said was undeniable to them.


    Indeed, for them, those few words could easily smooth over the past. But for her, it would never pass.


    "Mom, were you also a child from the countryside? Have you experienced washing clothes in icy water in the dead of winter? When your hands were covered in chilins that bled and festered, but you still had to keep working, because you''d get beaten and scolded if you rested for even a moment.


    "Oh, it was actually quite normal for families to wash clothes in the river to save firewood.


    "But among those people, how many were children only a few years old?


    "Do you know that they pushed me into the river from behind and watched me struggle like a dog,ughing loudly on the shore? Then I was sick for days. I barely recovered, yet was still scolded for having a worthless life, that even this couldn''t kill me!


    "Have you experienced not eating for days? When your stomach churns so badly from hunger, even chewing on some wild grass by the roadside tastes sweet.


    "Have you been dragged by the hair and pped?


    "Have you been beaten with a burning fire stick?


    "Have you had boiling water deliberately poured on you?


    "Have you woken up to be humiliated and abused by a strange old man?


    "...


    "You haven''t experienced any of this, yet you ask me to forgive with just a few words?"


    Zhou Nan''s barrage of questions mmed into their hearts like knives twisting them.


    "Zhou Nan, Mom didn''t know, Mom really didn''t know any of this..." Zhou Nan cried inconsbly and looked back at An Jingzhi. "Didn''t you investigate? Why didn''t you find any of this? Why didn''t you tell me? My child suffered so much all these years, and I waspletely unaware..."


    "I did ask around, but Meiyun said the Gao family people had looked for her, but she didn''t believe them. She thought the Gao family was lying to her. She firmly believed she was our biological child, and was afraid, so she never dared tell us the Gao family was looking for her. I also asked around the vige. They said you didn''t have it very good, but no one told me you went through this..." An Jingzhi suddenly felt his throat go dry. He simply couldn''t believe his daughter had been treated this way before. "No one told me. When the doors close in a powerful and shrewd family, how much can outsiders really know about what goes on inside?"


    "But you really didn''t know? Dad, how could a high school principal''s intelligence be so low? You didn''t not know, you just didn''t want to know, so you deceived yourself, and arrogantly glossed things over. It''s trulyughable." Zhou Nan continued, "Oh, perhaps you''re still thinking that even if you didn''t ask me, why didn''t I say it myself?"


    Zhou Nan scoffed at herself, "Because I knew clearly that you didn''t care about me. Even if I said anything, it would only humiliate myself. And the people who cared about me never needed me to talk about these things. They wouldn''t want me to open my old wounds for sympathy."


    Just like Grandpa and Grandma. They never asked about her past, yet always loved her warmly, making her feel that all her efforts over the years were not in vain.


    You all know, ever since I was little I''ve wondered why my parents don''t like me. They clearly don''t treat my older brother and sister the same way. It wasn''t until I learned about my background that I finally understood. I was secretly happy at one point, thinking it wasn''t because of me they didn''t like me, but because they had ghosts in their hearts. The day I found the Zhou family, I was full of hope. But after waiting for three whole days, I realized that perhaps my hopeful heart was merely my own wishful thinking. I held the joy of finding my biological parents in my heart, yet my biological parents did not look forward to my arrival, because my arrival disrupted your peaceful, beautiful lives. From when you said I should go back and live peacefully with Gao Meiyun, to when you gave me the name An Mexia, to when you''d agreed with Fourth Brother to let me stay in his room yet still tried to make me live with Gao Meiyun first - I realized you were constantly testing my attitude. If I had obediently gone along with your arrangements, meek and timid, then both I and Gao Meiyun could have stayed in this family. To you, that oue would have been a win-win for everyone. But that''s not who I am, so I moved into Fourth Brother''s room. You understood my attitude then, yet kept trying to test me in order to achieve your own goals. You never loved me; you were just suddenly struck with guilt at having lost a daughter. But sadly, even that guilt was only temporary. So when I started to show a rebellious attitude, you felt I was ungrateful and immature. In truth I was indeed like that - I hadpromised for 18 years in the Gao family, only to end up being sold. If I had to keeppromising even after returning to my own family, what meaning would there have been in mying back?


    Seeing them gradually fall apart under my words, Xia suddenly didn''t understand - what was the point of all this?


    She had thought the best way for them to get along would be to deal with it all indifferently - she would no longer expect parental love from them, and they wouldn''t expect her to be a good daughter. They could maintain a superficial family bond, and that would be enough.


    But they were determined to disrupt that peace, yet seemed unable to bear the tidal wave that came after breaking it.


    Perhaps in this moment, they were still ming her in their hearts - why couldn''t she be more sensible? More willing to turn a blind eye?


    Gao Meiyun was already dead. As long as she was willing to continue pretending nothing had happened, everything could go on as before, and she could enjoy her parents'' love alone.


    But she didn''t want that.


    She didn''t want a love that could only fall upon her after Gao Meiyun''s death.


    It made her feel like a beggar, as if she only deserved everyone else''s hand-me-downs.

 Chapter 97: Make it Clear

    <h4>Chapter 97</h4>


    Zhou Nan had cried until she was sobbing uncontrobly. An JingZhi stood by her side wanting tofort her, but felt utterly powerless.


    Possibly really too heartbroken, and in addition to her existing illness, she cried until she was gasping for breath.


    "Zhou Nan..." Seeing Zhou Nan faint on the ground, An JingZhi anxiously called out and hurriedly took her into his arms.


    Knowing summer also noticed this scene. Although she said she would no longer treat them as her parents, she had no intention of taking Zhou Nan''s life. Seeing the situation, she hurriedly opened the door, only to find unexpectedly that grandfather and grandmother as well as her brothers were all outside, looking at her withplicated expressions.


    Knowing summer then became alert, having just spoken too freely, she had actually forgotten to control her voice.


    An JingZhi carried Zhou Nan out, and the two brothers hurried over to help. The group hastily departed halfway.


    There was a glint of tears in the olddy''s eyes. She had long guessed that her granddaughter did not have a good time when she was young, but she did not expect that she would be abused to such an extent.


    The old gentleman was also angrily shaking, but did not know how to start tofort her.


    What had happened was now a fact. No matter how much more was said, it would seem to only reopen old healed scars and rub salt in her wounds again.


    Knowing summer went over and hugged the olddy, taking the initiative tofort her, "Granny, I''m fine, don''t worry about me either. It''s said that life itself is bitter, sour, sweet and spicy. I believe the bitter parts of my life are over, and the rest will be sweet."


    "Well said, granny is here to love you." The olddy''s voice trembled as she patted Knowing Summer''s arm. She had to use great patience to keep herself from crying. "Alright, don''t worry about your mother''s side, your father and brothers are taking care of her. You and Little Jing hurry up and pack up to leave. Remember to write home often in the future."


    Liu Ling hugged Wen Qing and saw the grandparents leaving. She also smiled at Knowing Summer reassuringly before following to the living room.


    Just as they reached the living room, the olddy said to the old gentleman again, "Let''s give the young couple some time. Little Jing also heard all that just now, I wonder what he is thinking..."


    Especially that part about being abused by an old man.


    The olddy had never asked Knowing Summer about her past, not because she didn''t care, but because she cared too much, afraid the child would be upset again remembering those times.


    She had quietly asked Granny Zhou about Knowing Summer''s state when she was found by the family, and had already guessed what her granddaughter had gone through beforeing home. So she used her greatest patience to make up for the child.


    At this moment, she truly felt distressed for the girl, but also worried that Knowing Summer had been taken advantage of by someone before Pei Jing, and it would affect the feelings between the young couple.


    The olddy had the ability to take care of Knowing Summer. Although she was old, she had money, and could ensure Knowing Summer would not live too poorly even if she raised a child alone. But she still hoped that her granddaughter, who had already suffered so much, could live happily for the rest of her life.


    She left Knowing Summer and Pei Jing space to talk also to test them��if Pei Jing really minded and argued with Knowing Summer, then she would have to re-evaluate their marriage and make early preparations for her granddaughter.


    Liu Ling still had to hurry to work, so she could only leave her child here first.


    Inside the room, Knowing Summer watched as Pei Jing came in.


    For the first time, he took the initiative to approach her, and patted her back with his long,rge hand,forting her, "Don''t be afraid, I''ll be here from now on."


    "Mm." Knowing Summer nodded, taking advantage of the situation to wrap her arms around his slender waist, and buried her face in his embrace.


    Pei Jing was visibly startled for a moment, but did not push her away.


    After a long while, Knowing Summer asked him, "Did you hear what I just said?"


    Pei Jing nodded, "I heard it."


    "So don''t you have anything you want to ask me?" Knowing Summer looked up at him, happening to see the stubble growing on his chin, already beginning to emerge.


    "Things of the past are over, we won''t mention them again in the future. Knowing Summer, I will take good care of you." Pei Jing was still calm, but felt extremely moved inside.


    He had originally thought that he should take good care of her, but after knowing her past, it was really hard not to be touched.


    Knowing Summer''s past was too bitter, and it made his heart feel sour.


    "That''s not it," Knowing Summer said. "Won''t you ask if I was really taken advantage of by another man?"


    Pei Jing frowned, "That''s unimportant. Since I have married you, I will be responsible for you. Don''t worry too much either. I, Pei Jing, am not such a conservative person."


    He only thought that even if it was true, it could not be med on her, only those who had harmed her.


    This girl was pitiful enough already. If he made a big deal about these things, how could he still call himself a person?


    Although she knew he did not have much feelings for her at the moment, Pei Jing''s words still moved Knowing Summer very much.


    Not everyone in this world could be so rational.


    In her previous life, Knowing Summer knew that the most disgusting thing was that some people actually felt the victim-ming mentality made sense.


    When a girl suffered abuse, they did not me the abuser, but med the girl for being too provocative and seducing others. It was simply bizarre.


    If this principle was really followed, then there would be no bad people in the world, because bad deeds were onlymitted when bad people were seduced into it.


    Touched by Pei Jing''s understanding, but Knowing Summer still had to exin clearly, "Pei Jing, no matter how conservative you are, I still have to make it clear to you. I''m sure you remember the circumstances when we first met. What I said refers to that day��I was secretly drugged and sold off. When I woke up, I saw an old man touching me inappropriately. But I was not taken advantage of. I took the chance to injure him when he was not paying attention, then ran up the mountain. Afterwards I met you. You are my first man, and my only one. I''m not saying this to emphasize anything, just that I don''t want to pin things that didn''t happen to me onto myself."


    "I know, I believe you. Don''t think too much about it. Let''s hurry and pack up to go, or we''ll miss the train." Pei Jing did not doubt Knowing Summer''s words. Recalling carefully, the awkwardness between them that day, if either had any experience at all, things would not have turned out that way.


    Also, there was blood on his stick when he woke up. He just hadn''t made the connection at the time.


    "Do you need to exin these things to Granny? She probably misunderstood too. I''m afraid she might overthink things in her mind."


    Pei Jing''s words made Knowing Summer agree as well. After packing up their things, she told him to carry them while she went out first.


    After exining everything to the olddy, the olddy''s spirit clearly improved. She finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    As long as the child was not taken advantage of, that was good. As long as her granddaughter was well, even if she had to live a few less years, she would be happy.


    After all, she had lived to this great age already, and got her money''s worth out of life.


    Taking Knowing Summer''s things, they still had to stop by next door first.


    Inside the room, Pei Jing saw the box Knowing Summer refused to let go of, and asked her, "Is that stuff really important?"


    Knowing Summer opened it in front of him, revealing the pearls and jewels inside, "The dowry Granny gave me, she said for me to keep it myself."


    Considering the previous status of the An family, Pei Jing was not too surprised. He only urged, "The wooden box is too conspicuous. Take the stuff out and put it in with the luggage. There will be a lot of people on the train, we have to watch our belongings carefully."


    The olddy had considered it would be difficult to store, so she did not give Knowing Summer too much. But a dowry was a matter of face for a woman, she could not go without one, and had no intention to make her hide it from Pei Jing.


    Knowing Summer responded with an "Mm," and took the chance while he went to speak with the old gentleman to stow the box into her space.


    She only needed to maintain appearances by showing him the items. It would make it easy to exin if she needed them someday in the future.

 Chapter 98: Found the Treasure

    <h4>Chapter 98</h4>


    After bidding farewell to Old Pei, Second Uncle Pei Sheng and Pei JianGuo sent them out the door.


    With three grown men present, none of them let Zhou Nan carry anything the entire way.


    Pei Jing chatted with Second Uncle along the way. Pei JianGuo was in very low spirits, seeming somewhat decadentpared to when they first met him, no longer like that cheerful and gentle young man.


    Pei Sheng suddenly turned back and pped Pei JianGuo heavily on the shoulder, saying, "JianGuo, don''t keep such a long face. There is love to be found everywhere, a real man can focus on his career first before settling down. When you''ve seeded, who says you still can''t find a good wife?"


    Pei Sheng was also quite puzzled, and didn''t know what his nephew was thinking.


    Although Gao Meiyun wasn''t ugly, she wasn''t very pretty either. Just had fair skin. She was notorious for being bad when she was little, though she had improved somewhat these past two years. But when she talked, it still felt pretentious.


    When they spoke of this matter, everyone found it bizarre. A living person dying in broad daylight from some bug''s sting, yet they couldn''t even find what had stung her.


    The detention center had been busy fumigating and killing insects these past few days because someone had died. Zhou Nan heard they even got criticized by their superiors over it.


    Pei JianGuo dodged away, mumbled something, and maintained his sullen silence.


    Pei Sheng thought to himself that he would have to call Big Brother another day. Big Brother was rarely home, and his mother had spoiled this boy rotten.


    Compared to his siblings settled at home, JianGuo was much more useless. He relied on the family to arrange his job, and hadn''t aplished anything substantial after working for so long. Now he had also stumbled over a woman, moping around feeling sorry for himself daily like Sister Lin from storytelling performances.


    Pei Jing didn''t know what he was thinking either, and gave Pei JianGuo a nce but said nothing.


    Zhou Nan thought about how her first life''s self had left Pei JianGuo billions in inheritance, so she quietly asked, "Aren''t you going to discipline your nephew?"


    She just wanted to see what status Pei JianGuo currently held in Pei Jing''s heart.


    But the result was beyond her expectations.


    "It''s his parents'' responsibility to discipline him, what does it have to do with me?" Pei Jing said. Perhaps feeling his words were too harsh, his tone softened as he continued, "What''s more, he''s already a grown adult and should take responsibility for his own actions."


    He was only a few years older than Pei JianGuo anyway, just a higher generation.


    Pei Jing also looked down on Pei JianGuo somewhat. A man in his early 20s should be building his career and achievements, but two years ago the family had wanted to send him into the military. He couldn''t endure the hardships though, and his mother couldn''t bear to part with him either, so they could only abandon that n and find him a job in the government instead.


    He hadn''t asked in detail, but Pei Jing had heard the elders sighing, saying the boy was distracted and never focused on his work even at such a young age.


    Zhou Nan imperceptibly raised the corners of her lips. "I thought he was the only boy of the younger generation in your family, so he should be the most valued at home."


    Pei Jing felt Zhou Nan''s words were very strange.


    It was true JianGuo was the only boy among the younger generation, but their Pei family wasn''t biased towards males to that extent right?


    Of course, JianGuo''s mother did get a bit conceited over the years for giving birth to the only son, but that was just in their main branch.


    Moreover, Zhou Nan was still young herself, and the gender of the child in her belly was still unknown. It was too extreme to call Pei JianGuo the only boy of the younger generation.


    Recalling how Zhou Nan had asked before whether he looked down on daughters, Pei Jing felt she was probably worried about not being loved if she gave birth to a girl.


    "Don''t overthink it. The country now advocates women can hold up half the sky. Favoring sons over daughters is outdated thinking, not to be emted. Sons and daughters are the same, so don''t have thoughts like that." Pei Jing said earnestly.


    "I understand, I won''t." Zhou Nan responded. She felt even happier inside.


    But she was also puzzled. ording to Gao Meiyun, Pei Jing would leave his entire billion-dor inheritance solely to Pei JianGuo in her first life.


    Yet judging by his current attitude, he didn''t seem the type to do that. Even if he ended up with no children of his own and could only leave it to his nephew, surely he would still leave some for his nieces too?


    Oh well, no point fretting about it, Zhou Nan felt she was borrowing trouble unnecessarily again.


    In any case, Pei Jing wouldn''t die alone this life. He had her and the child in her belly. There was no chance of Pei JianGuo bing his heir anymore.


    Moreover, with her by his side, Pei Jing''s fate had already changed. It wasn''t certain he would still get that injury and be discharged from the army as in her first life either.


    At the train station, Pei Sheng took the referral letter to get tickets, so they could only wait there.


    They had timed it well, and the train arrived not long after.


    Pei Sheng and Pei JianGuo helped them board the train. With so much luggage, Zhou Nan couldn''t lend a hand anymore.


    The train was crammed. Fortunately they had bunk beds, so it was slightly better.


    Pei Jing found their beds and had Zhou Nan sit down before stowing their luggage underneath.


    Zhou Nan suddenly felt she had struck gold finding this man.


    He didn''t look like a gentle man, yet every action was thoughtful, like shielding her from the crush of people while carrying luggage when boarding, and now, making sure she was seatedfortably first before dealing with everything else.


    After Pei Jing finished putting away the luggage, he sat on the lower bunk and heaved a long sigh.


    "I''m on the top bunk. Are you tired? Do you want to lie down first? I''ll keep watch over you." Considering this was Zhou Nan''s first train ride, Pei Jing thoughtfully offered.


    "No need to watch me. Go rest too. I''ll just sleep by myself if I''m tired." Zhou Nan bent down to retrieve a small nket from her backpack under the bed. She nned to cover herself with it when sleeping.


    All sorts of people took the train, so standards weren''t high in this era. She would feel more secure under her own nket.


    Seeing this, Pei Jing suddenly thought Zhou Nan resembled the old madame of the An family. Even growing up in that environment, she was quite fastidious.


    Since Zhou Nan insisted she wasn''t afraid, Pei Jing climbed up to rest as well.


    The train rumbled into motion, the scenery outside gradually receding as it slowly picked up speed.


    Meanwhile, Zhou Nan had just woken up in the hospital, much to An JingZhi and brothers An Zhiren and An ZhiXian''s relief.


    "Where is Zhou Nan?" were her first words upon regaining consciousness.


    The An brothers exchanged a nce,plex emotions shing through both their eyes. An ZhiXian replied, "Our little sister should be on the train with Pei Jing by now."


    The brothers had originally nned to see her off, but Zhou Nan losing consciousness threw their ns into disarray.


    Zhou Nan started feeling confused. "She just left like that without saying anything?"


    She had been unconscious after all.


    Zhou Nan suddenly realized Zhou Nan was serious. She really was thoroughly disappointed in them as parents, so indifferent even when Zhou Nan fell ill.

 Chapter 99: A Train Encounter

    <h4>Chapter 99</h4>


    An Zhiren and An ZhiXian also did not know how tofort her, because ZhiXia did not show any worried look at all.


    Looking back at this matter from the beginning, it seemed that there was no way to me ZhiXia for being ruthless, because it was the parents'' inaction first. Carefully recalling, what the eldest brother scolded them was very right, they these two elder brothers also did not fulfill the responsibility as the elder brother, but even not as good as the fourth younger brother.


    "Mom, you are still sick now, don''t think too much, don''t resent little sister in your heart. After all, she is the one who has been hurt the most in this matter, and we family not only did not defend her at the first time, but also had our own thoughts, stabbing the knife in her heart time and time again. Little sister does not hate us, it is already her generosity. In the future..." An Zhiren looked at An ZhiXian, "In the future, whatever we think or want to do, we should first stand in the position of our little sister and think about it. If we change positions with her and suffer the grievances she has suffered, we may not be able to be as calm as her and still maintain our original intention in this state."


    Zhou Nan could only use crying to relieve her distress in her heart. An Zhiren and An ZhiXian could not persuade her and could only helplessly leave first.


    Sitting in front of her sickbedplicatedly, An JingZhi said, "It''s our fault. Think carefully, when the child first returned home, she was also well-behaved and obedient. It is us who broke her heart time and time again by making promises but failing to fulfill them, and it is also what we deserve to fall to this point. Don''t cry anymore. In the future, we have to think carefully about how to make up to the child..." An JingZhi didn''t even know whether he wasforting the other party orforting himself.


    Obviously, the old master had already made up his mind for him early in the beginning of the incident. He only needed to follow the instructions to do it, and he would be able to get out of it safely without offending both sides.


    He was too greedy, wanting both but ending up with neither.


    Zhou Nan really couldn''t figure out how to make up to ZhiXia. She didn''t even want money. Now they were thousands of miles apart. How could she make this daughter change her mind?


    Of course, no matter how they struggled, ZhiXia did not know or want to ask.


    As the sky gradually darkened, Pei Jing came down from the upper berth, and ZhiXia had not fallen asleep either, sitting up to look at him.


    "Let''s eat first while we can still see. I''ll go buy some food for you." Pei Jing said.


    ZhiXia stopped him and said, "Don''t go buy it, I brought some food."


    She sewed arge backpack for herself, which contained not only nkets and clothes, but also several oil paper packages wrapped in clothes.


    She took the oil paper package out of the inside, opened it, and revealed two hand-grabbed pancakes, golden and crispy, wrapped with potato shreds and shredded meat, still warm. At first nce, it was very appetizing.


    The man in the lower berth opposite smelled the aroma and unconsciously swallowed his saliva. He had originally wanted to eatter, but he really couldn''t stand it anymore.


    He took out his own lunch box, looked at the ordinary rice and dishes in it, and really had no appetite.


    Pei Jing was puzzled. "When did you make this?"


    The family had prepared some meals for him, but considering ZhiXia''s stomach, he only let them prepare his own portion, intending to buy her something hot on the train.


    "I didn''t make it. I made this pancake for my fourth brother the day before yesterday. My sister-inw Zhou was afraid we wouldn''t eat well on the way, so she specially prepared it." In fact, ZhiXia took it out of her space.


    Grandma and Sister-inw Zhou said they would prepare for her, but she used the excuse that the Pei family had prepared.


    There were not many delicacies at home in the first ce. She had already used a lotst time for her fourth brother. If she used more again this time, grandfather and grandma would not be able to eat delicacies this month.


    Anyway, she had plenty of food in her space, so she hid it from both ends like this. Pei Jing would not specifically ask Sister-inw Zhou about these things either.


    "Then you eat this pancake, I''ll eat the big pancake with pickled cucumber." Pei Jing said and went to take it.


    ZhiXia stopped his actions and motioned for him to look at her backpack, "There are still several of them, enough for both of us for a day. This stuff won''t keep for long either, it will go bad if you don''t eat it." ZhiXia said, "There are vegetables in this, it''s better to put the big pancake forter. Let''s eat this first, then eat the big pancake after finishing it."


    They would be on the train for two or three days. This food could be kept at most until tomorrow. After that, it would go bad. Pei Jing also understood this reason, so he no longer refused.


    The man opposite turned his eyes and leaned over, "Brother, sister, do you have any extra of that pancake to exchange for one of mine? I''ll give you money and a ticket."


    Pei Jing was about to refuse, when he saw ZhiXia had already taken one out and said, "Okay, anyway sister-inw Zhou made a lot."


    People who could take sleeper cars in this era were not ordinary people. Without some ability, they couldn''t even buy tickets.


    ZhiXia had noticed the man opposite as soon as she came and saw that he was wearing an 80% new Zhongshan suit with a briefcase in his hand, taking out paper and pen from time to time to study something.


    Exchanging a pancake for an acquaintance, even if there was no chance to meet again in the future, it wouldn''t cost much.


    On the contrary, more friends meant more options.


    ZhiXia only intended to sell the other party a favor, but she didn''t make it too obvious either, so when the other party took out money and a ticket, she didn''t refuse.


    On the contrary, because of this pancake, it opened up the conversation, and the three of them chatted.


    The other party''s surname was Wu, named Lei, in his thirties, and was the head of the development department of Lingjiang Food Factory. This time he went out to specifically study new varieties.


    Also because he saw Pei Jing wearing a military uniform, the other party was very relieved and chatted with them without any guard.


    After eating the pancake in his hand satisfyingly, feeling not full yet, but also not wanting to ask for more, Wu Lei could only take out his own lunch box, but it tasted more and more vorless as he ate.


    "Sister, this pancake you made is great, it''s just a pity that it can''t be stored for a long time, otherwise I would definitely buy the recipe from you. This texture would definitely sell well." Wu Lei said, taking two bites, then put away his tasteless meal.


    Forget it, after just tasting something good, he couldn''t eat this rubbish anymore. He''d just wait till he was starving again to eat it.


    It was a bit unfortunate. ZhiXia and Pei Jing were also going to the military area on the Lingjiang City side.


    After hearing Wu Lei''s words, ZhiXia took out another oil paper package from her backpack, opened it and handed it over, "Brother Wu, try this."


    Wu Lei looked at the steamed bun-sized pastry in front of him, and unceremoniously pinched a piece into his mouth, biting off half in one bite.


    Immediately, his eyes lit up as he looked at the half-bitten pastry in his hand. The thin and soft crust wrapped red bean paste. It was sweet and soft when eaten, without any greasiness, and with the natural aroma of red beans.


    Recalling what he had just casually said about buying the recipe, Wu Lei probably understood ZhiXia''s meaning.


    However, if he could really get this recipe, it might really be an opportunity for their Lingjiang Food Factory.


    "Sister, this red bean pastry is not bad. If mass-produced, it will definitely be liked by many people, especially the elderly. Brother happens to be from the R&D department of the food factory. Do you n to sell this recipe?"

 Chapter 100: Arrival

    <h4>Chapter 100</h4>


    Wu Lei thought Zhi Xia would be overjoyed, but unexpectedly, Zhi Xia shook her head.


    Wu Lei''s smile on his face instantly froze.


    Could it be that he had guessed the other party''s meaning wrong?


    Just as he was thinking this, he heard Zhi Xia say: "I won''t hide it from Brother Wu, since I was little I''ve had a particr knack for tinkering with these kinds of things. Just now I also heard that Brother Wu works at a food factory, so I wanted you to taste the mung bean cakes I just made and see what you think of the vor. Getting your praise would be enough for me, I didn''t intend to sell the recipe."


    Pei Jing looked at Zhi Xia in confusion, he had the same thought as Wu Lei just now.


    But now it seems that he was narrow-minded, she really just likes cooking.


    Thinking back to the chef at home when he was young, who also particrly liked researching dishes, and would be overjoyed whenever he researched a new dish and asked people to try it, getting praised made him extremely happy. Zhi Xia was probably like this too.


    Wu Lei was just a little disappointed, but since the other party had said it like that, he didn''t insist further.


    However, he still tentatively asked for the specific address where Zhi Xia was going, thinking that he would leave a friendly gesture, in case he really needed the other party someday.


    And looking at the clothes of the brother opposite, he should also have some position in the army. Based on the thinking of having more friends for more options, he wouldn''t lose out either.


    People are often like this, so-called feelings are mostly maintained by interests. Even without interests, people are still willing to get along well with others when they don''t lose out, just in case they can really use the other party someday!


    Of course, there are also a small number of stupid and malicious people who only do things that harm others without benefiting themselves.


    Zhi Xia handed over the remaining mung bean cakes and the oil paper to him, "It''s fateful to meet like this. I can see that Brother Wu is also someone who loves delicious food. I''ll give this to Brother Wu. I hope you won''t look down on it."


    In this era when everyone could barely eat their fill, even coarse grains were in high demand, let alone delicacies made from fine grains like these.


    To be able to share food with others, they must either be one''s own rtives, or there is something to gain.


    Wu Lei didn''t dare ept it for a moment.


    Zhi Xia probably sensed his hesitation, and smiled again, "Brother, don''t think too much. I''m also a foodie. I heard Brother Wu works at a food factory, so you muste into contact with all kinds of cakes and pastries often. I just wanted to use the mung bean cakes as an icebreaker to establish a good connection."


    Pei Jing nced at Zhi Xia inconspicuously. Being able to portray her love of eating so purely and unconventionally, this was the first time he had seen it.


    Wu Lei only felt reassured to ept the food. He really couldn''t think of anything the other party could gain from him. It must be as she said, they shared amon hobby and wanted to establish a good connection.


    As a grown man, he couldn''t take advantage of a woman either, let alone that those who could afford sleepers were all people of some status, if not, they had connections at home.


    Although reluctant, he still took out the White Rabbit milk candy he had brought back for his child from his bag, "Miss, I don''t have any good stuff on me now, this is for you to sweeten your mouth."


    Zhi Xia knew that since she had given out her food, it would be improper not to ept something from the other party. But a grown man bringing White Rabbit candy should not be something he would bring for her.


    She thought for a moment, grabbed a few, and jokingly said, "Brother Wu, this candy shouldn''t be for you to eat, right? And I don''t dare take too much of this precious stuff, I''ll just take a few, you should put away the rest."


    Seeing that the other party was a girl who knew moderation and didn''t take advantage, Wu Lei truly felt that he had good judgement and didn''t befriend the wrong person.


    Although reluctant, he still said, "Don''t hide from you, miss, I got this on my way back from the south to bring home for my kids. Today I took advantage of you, if you and Brother Pei Jing get a chance toe to the city in the future,e to the food factory and ask for me by name. I will definitely do my utmost as a host."


    Zhi Xia took out another pack of mung bean cakes from her bag and gave it to Pei Jing to eat, while she ate two herself.


    Wu Lei got up and went towards the bathroom. Pei Jing then said, "Just now I also thought you wanted to sell the recipe. But you can''t do this kind of thing again in the future when going out. You have to keep a low profile. Fortunately this Wu Lei is not a bad person, otherwise you doing this would be very dangerous, especially on trains, there are all kinds of people, you never know who is good and who is bad."


    "I know, I''m not an idiot either. If not for you being here, I wouldn''t dare talk casually with others." What Zhi Xia said was true. She was clearer than anyone how chaotic trains were in the 1970s and 80s.


    With underdeveloped technology and no surveince, it was the heyday for thieves and kidnappers. If you really got kidnapped, it would be difficult to even find you.


    But thieves and kidnappers weren''t blind. Obviously there was someone in military uniform next to her, who would dare pluck the tiger''s whiskers?


    "Then what were you trying to gain from befriending him? Were you thinking of working at the food factory?" Pei Jing frowned. "It''s not that I don''t agree with you going out to work, it''s just that you don''t understand the situation there. The army is still some distance from Lingjiang City, the country roads are difficult to traverse to begin with, and when it rains on cloudy days, they get all muddy. You''re currently pregnant, it''s really not suitable for you to go to work."


    From when she found a job at a restaurant not long after returning home,bining with this matter, Pei Jing guessed that the youngdy probably wanted to go out to work.


    Having ambition was a good thing, but reality really didn''t allow it.


    "I didn''t think that much, I really just wanted him to taste my cooking." Zhi Xia smiled and asked him, "Do you think my behavior of giving away food to others when everyone in their own homes can barely eat their fill is foolish?"


    For Zhi Xia, who didn''tck food, this was normal, but it did look hard to understand in the eyes of outsiders.


    Pei Jing did think this way, but he was considerate and didn''t want to hurt the youngdy''s feelings, so he tactfully said, "No, don''t overthink."


    What he was distressed about was not the lost food, it was her.


    It''s not necessarily a good thing to connect with others so easily. Thinking about the environment she grew up in, her inner heart must have craved the approval of others right?


    Those whock love can only use love to warm others. Pei Jing felt that his future task was a bit heavy.


    Pregnant people were naturally prone to sleepiness. Although she had slept for half the afternoon, when darkness came, she was still very drowsy.


    More people had also boarded the train, and the big man on the other side was snoring loud enough to shake the heavens, while the person whose berth was close to Zhi Xia''s had smelly feet. Going to the other side meant knocking heads with another person when sleeping, also not resting well.


    Zhi Xia sat up supporting herself for most of the night, and was extremely sleepy. She had no choice but to curl herself up into a ball and cover her head with the quilt, before she could finally dilute the stench of the smelly feet.


    After a night, her whole being was visibly wilted.


    In the morning, Pei Jing climbed down from the upper berth and saw her dejected appearance.


    "What''s wrong? Are you ufortable somewhere?" Pei Jing asked with concern.


    Zhi Xia shook her head, "I just didn''t sleep well, I''ll sleep for a bitter and I''ll be fine."


    Pei Jing thought of the earth-shaking snoresst night, and could probably guess some of it, but he couldn''t tell people not to snore, after all it was uncontroble.


    He went to pour hot water for Zhi Xia, and originally wanted her to eat something, but she had no appetite, so he could only let her drink some water.


    When sleeping again, Zhi Xia switched ces with Pei Jing and went to the upper berth before she could finally rest well.


    She had also tried immersing her consciousness in the space, but that was just her consciousness controlling the space, and could not block her five senses.


    On the second day of the train ride in the afternoon, the weather grew colder and colder, fortunately they had brought clothes, and Zhi Xia had also put on the cotton-padded jacket made by the olddy.


    After two days and three nights on the train, they finally arrived at Lingjiang City. They hadn''t even gotten off yet but could already feel the chill, and once off the train, the wisps of cool breeze froze her to shudder violently.

 Chapter 101: At a loss

    <h4>Chapter 101</h4>


    Pei Jing carried most of the luggage, with both arms full. Zhi Xia only took on a small portion.


    Wu Lei got off at the same stop as them. He only had a small bag and briefcase in hand. Seeing they had a lot of luggage, he took the initiative to help carry some.


    At the train station, An Zhiqing had already waited over two hours. He finally heard the iing train and hurried to find them in the disembarking crowd.


    "Pei Jing, over here..." An Zhiqing jumped up, waving his hands. Both were in military uniforms, so they were still easy to identify.


    Pei Jing also saw An Zhiqing and called to Zhi Xia and Wu Lei, "Let''s go this way. My big brother is here to pick us up."


    "The car is parked outside," An Zhiqing said, then looked at Zhi Xia and enthusiastically asked, "You must be Zhi Xia right? I''m your big brother An Zhiqing."


    Zhi Xia was freezing, with her chin tucked into her cor. Hearing him, she poked out a little and shyly said, "Hello big brother, I''m Zhi Xia."


    "Give your luggage to big brother," An Zhiqing hurried to take Zhi Xia''s bags from her. He asked her, "The weather here is dry and cold, not as mild as Jin City. Suddenly getting off the train must make you really ufortable right?"


    "It''s alright, but it is quite cold," An Zhiqing was very warm, which also put Zhi Xia at ease.


    "Let''s go quickly. You''ll feel better once we get home," An Zhiqing said as he led the way.


    Pei Jing introduced Wu Lei to him, and An Zhiqing greeted Wu Lei enthusiastically too.


    An Zhiqing had driven an army procurement vehicle. He also towed a truck full of cabbages. Luckily the front was a two-seater, so Zhi Xia sat in the passenger seat while Pei Jing could only lie on the cabbages in the back.


    "Comrade Wu, where are you headed? Should we give you a ride?" Lingjiang City wasn''t well-off either. Going out was difficult these days, so Pei Jing only asked because Wu Lei seemed decent.


    Wu Lei smiled. "Lingjiang Food Factory. Is it on the way? If not I''ll see if there''s an oxcart going that directionter."


    "Just a small detour," An Zhiqing said when he overheard their conversation.


    So Wu Lei didn''t decline further. He and Pei Jing bothy on top of the cabbages in the back.


    After dropping Wu Lei off at the food factory, they continued on their way.


    Once out of the city, the road ahead was even harder to traverse, very bumpy with gravel and clumps of earth.


    Zhi Xia was already feeling sick on the train, and now she felt even worse.


    From the corner of his eye, An Zhiqing saw her paleplexion. He consciously slowed down and said, "Little sister, are you carsick?"


    "A little, but I''m fine," Zhi Xia replied.


    An Zhiqing said, "Then I''ll drive slowly. Open your window a bit, close your eyes and lie down to feel better."


    "Okay, thank you big brother," Zhi Xia tilted her head to one side and dabbed some menthol ointment at her temples, instantly feeling much improved.


    The car slowly rumbled along. She didn''t pay attention to how long they drove before finally entering the military district.


    An Zhiqing stopped the car and waited for Pei Jing to get out. He threw down the keys from the window, "I have to deliver the cabbages to the mess hall first. Go ahead and take Zhi Xia over, leave the luggage still in the car. I''ll bring it overter."


    "Sounds good, thanks," Pei Jing wouldn''t stand on ceremony with him. Supporting Zhi Xia, and seeing she was still alright, he carried the luggage and had her follow behind.


    The family housing area was all old red brick buildings, already having seen the weather here, looking at the housing conditions now, Zhi Xia finally understood what Pei Jing meant by harsh conditions.


    The houses were uniform, each with two bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, no yard walls, but space at the doorways not taken up by the central path could be used for growing vegetables, which most families did.


    Along the way, Pei Jing greeted people he knew, introducing Zhi Xia''s identity too.


    Ever since Zhi Xia decided to follow the military, Pei Jing had notified An Zhiqing to help apply for housing, so news of Pei Jing getting married had already spread before they even arrived.


    Pei Jing found his house and unlocked the door with his key.


    The inside had already been cleaned, justpletely empty without anything.


    Entering the master bedroom, there was just a bed pushed against the wall.


    Pei Jing had already put down their things. He said, "Let me make the bed for you to rest a while. We have nothing now, after I report back to my unit, I''ll take time tomorrow to get some furniture from town and tidy up."


    After getting off the car just now, Zhi Xia was feeling much better already. She said, "You go take care of things first. I can make the bed, it''s no problem."


    "Alright, take care of yourself. If you don''t feel well then don''t push yourself. Wait until I get back," Pei Jing said as he took out the bedding from the sack, then left.


    Zhi Xia had just finished making the bed when she heard voices outside, "Deputy Commander Pei, are you home?"


    Zhi Xia hurried out, "He''s not home, he just stepped out. May I ask who''s calling?"


    "I''m from Commander Wu''s family next door. Just call me Sister Feng Xia. We''re neighbors from now on right? I just came over to get acquainted, it''s good for us all to know each other." Sister Feng Xia was a middle-aged woman with a round, kindly face. Sheughed amiably, very down-to-earth. "I heard a few days ago that Deputy Commander Pei went home to marry. Didn''t expect he found such a pretty wife. You''re as lovely as a fairy."


    Faced with Sister Feng Xia''spliments, Zhi Xia smiled generously, "Sister Feng Xia, nice to meet you. Just call me Zhi Xia. I just arrived so I''m not familiar with anyone yet. I''ll have to depend on you to take care of me."


    "Of course, once you''re settled, I''ll bring some others over to visit. We can all chat and get acquainted," Sister Feng Xia said.


    Just then, another woman came in, eximing in surprise, "I only darede because I saw Sister Feng Xia here. Don''t mind me imposing on you, Deputy Commander Pei''s family."


    "Sister you joke too much. I should have made time to visit you all first. I''m delighted you coulde over, I couldn''t be happier," Zhi Xia said politely.


    "Oh heavens, Deputy Commander Pei has struck real fortune, marrying such a sweet and pretty young wife. So beautiful, and such a honeyed tongue," the woman exaggeratedically, then introduced herself, "I''m your neighbor on the right, just call me Sister Hong Xing. I''m stationed with Sister Feng Xia, watching your nks. We''re the closest of neighbors now!"


    After chatting a while, they knew Zhi Xia must be busy having just arrived, so the women took their leave.


    Only then could Zhi Xia breathe easy again. She returned to the room to rest a while.


    In the 100 years as a ghost, she could only watch others live, drifting about alone.


    After rebirth, she only interacted with her own family, people she knew from her past life.


    Being thrust all of a sudden among strangers, especially facing such warm enthusiasm, she really was at a loss how to handle it.

 Chapter 102: Don鈥檛 make trouble, But don鈥檛 worry.

    <h4>Chapter 102</h4>


    The house was empty, and Shen Hongxing had cleaned everything up. There was nothing left to tidy.


    She had slept in the car for a few days, and wasn''t tired at all.


    Thinking that Pei Jing woulde over soon, she didn''t go into her room. Instead, she stood at the door taking in her small yard.


    The kitchen and main room were separate, built on the left. This perfectly blocked the view on that side.


    The neighbor''s house on the right had the same style, which ensuredplete privacy in their daily lives. This way, they wouldn''t see everything their neighbor cooked.


    However, walking past the kitchen, there was nothing blocking the view on either side or in the front.


    The kitchen had a simple stove. The mud on it seemed new, probably just stered. Other than that, there was nothing else.


    Just as Zhi Xia was looking over her home, Shen Hongxing next door had already gone out.


    Not far from her front door by the roadside, several women were gathered, with children running around. They started gossiping about Zhi Xia who had just moved in.


    Shen Hongxing spat out a melon seed shell, gesturing dramatically as she described Zhi Xia to everyone. "You wouldn''t have guessed it, but Deputy Pei Jing actually has this kind of taste. You didn''t see his young wife - she looks gentle and weak, clearly useless. She''s skin and bones without an ounce of meat. Who knows if she can even have kids? She looks so young, like a little girl, but she does have nice skin. When she smiles, her eyes curve charmingly. She even tempted me, a woman..."


    In this era, this was not a ttering description at all.


    A fashionable woman in a wool coat and leather shoes happened to walk by. Hearing these words, she asked Shen Hongxing, "Sister Hongxing, who doesn''t know your sister was chasing after Deputy Pei just a couple months ago? He ignored you, so why would he owe you an exnation?"


    Shen Hongxing was left speechless. She angrily put away her melon seeds, wanting to go over but was held back and appeased by the woman next to her.


    Yang Li raised her eyebrows with a smile and continued on her way.


    Seeing the woman was gone, Shen Hongxing threw up her hands andined, "That Yang Li is so arrogant just because she''s from the city. You see how she dresses, so showy. What''s so great about her? Yet she dares speak to us country folk like that..."


    An Zhiqing happened to walk by just then, carryingrge bags. He had witnessed quite a show today.


    He strode over with a mocking smile and said, "Sister Hongxing, seems you didn''t get criticized enoughst time. You''re still gossiping away so happily?"


    These people weren''t too bad, but they often had nothing to do and would gossip when together.


    And of course, no one liked to lose face. Last time, Hongxing had picked a fight and got criticized. The other woman who acted first also got in trouble. Neither came out looking good.


    Seeing An Zhiqing, although Shen Hongxing felt she did nothing wrong, being caught by a man still made her look a bit unpleasant.


    "Commander An, I didn''t say anything about you!" she said.


    An Zhiqing smiled. "Zhi Xia, Pei Jing''s wife. Me, An Zhiqing!" he stated, then pointed at himself.


    His smile instantly turned cold as he continued, "Sister Hongxing, I won''t bully a woman, but I will be having a nice chat with your husband about this."


    He picked up his things and strode past them. Shen Hongxing''s expression changed.


    Just then, Zhi Xia came out from the kitchen and saw An Zhiqinging over with things. She smiled brightly, "Brother, you''re here."


    An Zhiqing nodded and went inside to put down the items. He asked her, "Conditions here are harsh, but there''s no helping it. We''re all in the same boat. Pei Jing was in a hurry so I could only tidy up a bit. Furniture and such hasn''t been taken care of yet. When I have time, Pei Jing and I will go into town to get supplies."


    "Mm, that''s what he said too." Zhi Xia nodded. yfully she added, "Since there''s nothing in the house right now, we''ll have to wait until you get it sorted before I can serve you a hot cup of water."


    An Zhiqing''s loudughter filled the room. He asked about things around the house.


    He was considerate, having already heard from his sister-inw about Zhi Xia''s experiences returning home and argument with her parents. His heart ached for this younger sister of his.


    The conversation revolved around their grandfather, grandmother, and Wenqing. No one else was mentioned.


    An Zhiqing was witty and humorous, and very amodating of Zhi Xia''s feelings. The siblings quickly grew closer as they chatted happily.


    By the time Pei Jing returned, the two who just met clearly felt much closer.


    An Zhiqing walked over and lightly punched Pei Jing''s chest, joking, "You''ve taken away the best treasure of our family. Treat my sister well from now on, or this new uncle of yours isn''t one to mess with."


    "As if you need to tell me," Pei Jing brushed his hand away in annoyance. "Thanks for the house."


    "No need to thank me. I did it for my sister, not you." An Zhiqing was the same age as Pei Jing. They grew up together and joined the army together. Now stationed in the same ce, they had always been on good terms. At this point, there was no need to stand on ceremony. He joked, "But our Zhi Xia is impressive. She single-handedly raised all our seniority with one move."


    He raised his eyebrows at Pei Jing. Since they were the same age, An Zhiqing had always called him by name, never able to call him Uncle.


    Now that had changed. If they were being formal, Pei Jing would have to call him Brother.


    Pei Jing had always felt their rtionship was awkward. Hearing An Zhiqing''s joke made his ears turn red. He hinted for An Zhiqing to stop. "Don''t say things like that from now on. It''s not good for me or Zhi Xia."


    At that moment, he was quite d An Zhiqing never called him Uncle. No one at the base knew of their rtions, otherwise the situation for him and Zhi Xia would be ufortable.


    Even if he didn''t mind, others would still talk.


    Recalling the gossipy people he just ran into, An Zhiqing''s expression instantly darkened. "Right, Zhi Xia. Be cautious around that Shen Hongxing next door. I just passed by her and some others badmouthing you. Avoid deep ties with these kinds of people. Watch out for yourself, and tell Brother if anyone bullies you. I won''t start trouble but I don''t fear it either."

 Chapter 103: The Famous gossiper and the Famous Good Man.

    <h4>Chapter 103</h4>


    Xia knew in her heart that she was deeply moved, nodded heavily, "Well, thank you, big brother, I will pay attention."


    But this Hongxing sister-inw is also, just came over at first seemed enthusiastic, she also felt that the other person was quite good, I didn''t expect her to be a long-tongued woman who talks behind people''s backs.


    Seeing the well-behaved and obedient younger sister, An Zhiqing suddenly found the expectations he had for his younger sister when he was young.


    At that time, I just wanted to have a soft and cute younger sister who was also obedient and sensible, but Gao Meiyun was more mischievous than ordinary boys, and I didn''t like her at all, which broke his fantasy of a well-behaved and cute younger sister.


    After many years, he found this feeling again in his own sister.


    Suddenly he wanted to go up and touch her head, and he did just that.


    Pei Jing looked at him, "I wanted to ask you, how did you get the house in this ce?"


    Although he had always lived in the dormitory before, he had also heard of the reputation of Hongxing sister-inw, the famous long-tongued woman.


    Because of this, the couple had a lot of conflicts and was called for talks by the leadership many times, but they never changed.


    An Zhiqing nced at him, "Do you think it''s so easy to apply for a house? There are many people in the army waiting for houses to apany the army. Do you think you can apply for a house just because you just got married? That''s a joke. You''re using my quota now, and you''re so anxious about it. It''s already good to be able to apply for it, let alone pick and choose?"


    Pei Jing had never paid attention to this matter before, and really didn''t know, "You gave me the quota to apply for a house. What if you need it yourself in the future? Isn''t Wen Qing two years old? Aren''t you nning to let your wifee with the army?"


    "I''m considering it, but I haven''t decided yet. She is hesitant over there and worries too much. Plus the environment here is not good. She is also afraid that the child will not be able to stand it when hees." An Zhiqing sighed, "But you still have to hurry up and apply for a house. In case my wife decides toe over, the two sisters-inw can keep each otherpany."


    The two talked for a while, and then talked about going to town tomorrow.


    Before leaving, An Zhiqing also said to Xia, "When you are free and bored, you can go next door to find Feng Xia sister-inw. She is known as a good old man in our vicinity, and she is also enthusiastic."


    "I know, big brother." Xia obediently said.


    An Zhiqing called Pei Jing again, "Go for a walk?"


    When Pei Jing heard this, he understood that he had something to say to him alone.


    "Let''s go." He nodded and followed him out.


    Neither of them spoke after they went out. After walking away, An Zhiqing stopped and turned to Pei Jing solemnly, "Tell me, little uncle, what exactly is going on between you and Xia?"


    In 26 years, this was the first time An Zhiqing took the initiative to call him that, except for being coaxed to call him a few times when he was a child, and it was after their rtionship was broken.


    "Don''t make excuses to me, I''m not a fool." An Zhiqing believed that the people in his family were not fools either.


    The elders decided that Pei Jing was reliable, and the two were not rted by blood and liked each other, so they decided to let them get married.


    This reason was just enough to fool outsiders.


    The rest of the family didn''t ask, maybe because they didn''t dare to ask, or maybe because they didn''t care.


    But An Zhiqing could not think so.


    He was the eldest son of the family and had been educated since childhood to assume the responsibilities of the family, including taking care of the elderly and educating his younger siblings.


    So from a young age, An Zhiqing was very conscious at home, and was also entrusted with important tasks by the elders. His several younger brothers looked up to him, and even An Meiyun did not dare to be presumptuous in front of him.


    Pei Jing smiled and knew that he could not fool the other party, so he told the truth, including how he met Xia, what kind of situation she was facing at the time, and some things heter investigated, and the attitude of all the An family towards Xia.


    Before asking, An Zhiqing thought that after knowing how the other party deceived his sister, he would definitely make Pei Jing pay.


    But after listening, he felt that his heart was aching.


    He already knew some things from Liu Ling, but it was far from asprehensive as what Pei Jing said, and all the grievances Xia had suffered.


    Especially when he learned that Gao Meiyun was still calcting against Xia on her wedding day, he suddenly felt that she deserved to die, and his parents'' inaction also made him angry and helpless.


    An Zhiqing''s hand trembled as he lit a cigarette for himself. He patted Pei Jing on the shoulder and said, "Treat her well," then walked away.


    But that back, no matter how you look at it, seemed a little lonely.


    Dinner was taken by Pei Jing from the canteen. Right after eating, Yang Jun came over.


    Yang Jun was Shen Hongxing''s husband. His smile was unusually awkward, and he was a little ashamed. He came to apologize for Shen Hongxing scolding Xia in the afternoon.


    However, Shen Hongxing did note. Pei Jing and Xia both understood that he could not control Shen Hongxing, so he could onlye over himself thick-skinned.


    It''s a pitiful man to marry such a wife, having to apologize to people three days and two days, and being criticized by leaders for not a few times.


    Xia didn''t make it too hard for him either. She just decided to follow her brother''s words and ignore Shen Hongxing in the future. If the other party dared to gossip about her again, she would not be polite to her.


    There were only two wells in the whole family yard. They could only go to fetch water back for use. The toilet was also a public toilet, although not very far away, but also somewhat inconvenient.


    After staying on the train for two days, she always felt a little smelly, and wanted to take a bath in the space but was afraid that Pei Jing would find out. Xia took a box of pastries and went to sister Feng Xia''s house next door to borrow her family''s stove to boil two bottles of hot water for herself.


    She was reluctant to ept it at first, but Xia said it was for the child. Her several children looked at it eagerly. She felt sorry for the children, so she thickened her face to take it.


    But she also told Xia to feel free to use their stove and pots these days to help them settle down as soon as possible.


    It''s really a rare good old man, as my brother said.


    In less than a day aftering here, she had figured out the character of two neighbors, which was not without some gains.


    After Xia left, Lin Fengxia also said to her husband, "Although the Pei deputy regiment''s wife looks a little younger, she seems to be quite capable, and is also very polite. She is a good girl. Pei deputy regiment is also lucky."


    Wu Shengli, who had not shown his face just now, had also heard Xia''s voice in the room, soft andpliant, really like a little girl who hadn''t grown up. "Since they are polite, we can''t be petty. They just came here without any rtives. The house is not ready yet. When you have time, go over and help tidy up and let them settle down as soon as possible."


    "You don''t need to tell me that," Lin Fengxia said with a smile.


    Pei Jing brought back a bucket of water he had borrowed. Xia poured water into the room with a basin, took off her clothes and wiped her body.


    Fortunately, the hot water bottles and basins bought at the wedding were new, and they were all brought along, so they came in handy now.


    Pei Jing finished washing up outside and came in to find that the door was locked.


    When Xia heard the movement, she hurriedly said, "Wait a minute, I''ll be done soon."


    "It''s okay, take your time, I''ll wait outside," Pei Jing roughly knew what Xia was doing inside. In fact, he felt it was awkward for them to live together, but there was only one bed in the house. He couldn''t sleep on the floor on such a cold day.


    Just as he finished speaking, the door opened, Xia was wearing very little, "It''s so cold,e in quickly."

 Chapter 104: Finding the Wound

    <h4>Chapter 104</h4>


    Pei Jing felt his vision go white for a moment, his nose itched as if something was about to gush out, making him unconsciously stare nkly ahead.


    Knowing summer saw him noting in, she reached out and grabbed his arm, "Come in, what are you staring nkly for?"


    Pei Jing only reacted at this time, following her pulling force into the room.


    The water in the basin was still steaming, and the snow-white towel was still in the basin.


    Knowing summer asked him, "Do you want to wipe it too?"


    "I''ll go wipe it outside, are you done?" Pei Jing''s voice suddenly became dark, with a touch of hoarseness.


    "I...can''t reach my back." Knowing summer still stood in front of him, looking up slightly, her wet eyes gleaming with a hint of coquetry.


    Pei Jing''s Adam''s apple moved slightly, the confusion in his eyes grew heavier, "Knowing summer, do you know what you''re doing?"


    "I know, I just want you to help me wipe my back!" Knowing summer sighed helplessly, "Is this not okay either?"


    Pei Jing unnaturally averted his gaze, reminding her, "Don''t forget about your body, and I''m a normal man."


    Knowing summer suddenly knew what he was awkward about, deliberatelyughed and said, "Then what? I''m just out of reach wiping my back now, and in a few more months when my belly gets bigger, I might even have trouble taking care of myself. Are you going to ignore me then too?"


    Pei Jing deliberately frowned slightly, resigned, "Turn your back to me."


    Seeing him look at the washbasin wanting to go over, Knowing summer opened her arms and threw herself into his arms, hugging his waist, "Okay, okay, I don''t have to wipe it, I just want you to get used to my existence, we are married, and you still always avoid me, how can we get along well in the future like this?"


    The girl''s voice was soft and coaxing, coquettish enough to kill.


    Pei Jing looked at her bare shoulders, and her straight legs that would appear before his eyes with just a slight lowering of her head, and didn''t even dare to move.


    Knowing summer did wear clothes, but the thin nightgown simply could not conceal her body shape, and the top was only two straps hanging on her shoulders, with the tender flesh on her body exposed in full view.


    Pei Jing tried his best to stay calm, secretly pinching his palm to make himself sober, bent down to pick up Knowing summer and took a few steps to the bedside, then wrapped her in the quilt.


    "Didn''t you just say you were cold? Don''t catch a cold." Pei Jing said, then added, "Lie on your stomach, I''ll wipe your back for you."


    What Knowing summer said made sense. When her belly got bigger, it would be normal for her to have trouble moving around. She might need his help in many aspects of life. If he kept being so awkward, it wouldn''t do.


    Thinking carefully, he, a grown man, was actually less straightforward than a girl, which was rather shameful.


    However, what Pei Jing said was also true. As a hot-blooded young man who had just lost his virginity like that once, in the deep of the night, lying next to hiswful wife, whose body exuded a faint fragrance, how could he restrain himself?


    Seeing him wring out the towel, Knowing summer hurriedlyy down there, somewhat shyly burying her head in the crook of her arm.


    Pei Jing lifted the quilt, then lifted her top, originally wanting to wipe her back quickly and cover her, but when he saw the old scars hidden under her clothes, the tension in his heart dissipated all at once.


    Pei Jing''s fingers gently rubbed the scars on her back, and the itchy sensation made Knowing summer curl up.


    "It must have hurt a lot back then, right?" Pei Jing asked her distressedly.


    "What?" Knowing summer didn''t understand what he meant.


    Pei Jing was afraid she was cold, so he pulled the quilt up to cover her body before saying, "The scars on your back..." He suddenly remembered that he had brought up her sad past again, and quickly changed his words, "Forget it, things of the past are over, there''s no need to mention them again. We will be fine from now on." He swore to himself that he would never let her be beaten again.


    Knowing summer really didn''t know about the scars left on her back. After all, she had only been back for less than two months, and she didn''t remember much from her past life 100 years ago aftering back, let alone looking at her own back since then.


    There were a few old scars left on her arms, but just a shallow line was nothing serious. She simply didn''t know how many crisscrossing scars were on her back that could be seen at a nce how pitifully she had been beaten at the time.


    Apart from these, she also had a burn scar on the inside of her thigh. Fortunately, the scar was not big or conspicuous. She had originally wanted to apply ointment to remove it, but considering that she was still pregnant, she did not dare to use the ointment.


    Knowing summer reached back to feel her own back, only asionally feeling a little unevenness.


    This was also thanks to the fact that she was not prone to scarring, so the scars left were not very noticeable, just a little heartbreaking to look at.


    Pei Jing had been beaten a few days ago and left bruises on his back, but those purple bruises went away in a few days.


    Looking at Knowing summer''s wounds, it was obvious that she had been beaten bloody at the time, so scars that would not fade were left behind.


    Knowing summer suddenly retracted her hand, turned over and hugged herself tightly in the quilt, her voice involuntarily carrying some grievance, "Is it very ugly?"


    "Not ugly. Knowing summer is the most beautiful, and it''s on your back anyway, so you can''t see it." Pei Jingforted her.


    Knowing summer smiled faintly, seemingly tired, and lost the heart to tease him.


    "Hurry up and wipe yourself and go to sleep, aren''t we still going to town tomorrow?"


    "Okay, you sleep first." Pei Jing opened the door with the washbasin in his hands and went out.


    When he came back, Knowing summer had already gone into the space to look at herself in the mirror and saw the scars on her back clearly.


    He slipped under the quilt, his body still a little cold. Knowing summer turned around and snuggled into his arms, only to find that he was actually wearing autumn clothes and trousers.


    Knowing summer was really helpless, why did she feel like he was on guard against her?


    ...


    In an abandoned manor in Jincheng, Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister gnawed on freshly stewed dog meat.


    Gao Dalin angrily threw the bone aside and questioned Gao Second Sister, "I''ll ask you, can you be counted on or not? An MeiYun is dead, and An ZhiXia is gone too. What else are we staying here for? We don''t even have anything to eat every day. We can''t keep stealing people''s dogs to eat, right?"


    These past few days, he had been ordered around by Gao Second Sister to stalk people, and he was already very unhappy. Adding to that, with nothing to eat or wear and no money in hand, Gao Second Sister still refused to let him go back, making him even more unhappy.


    "What''s the hurry? With our family''s reputation, what future would we have after going back? Still have to watch people''s faces, do the most tiring work for the lowest rations?" Gao Second Sister viciously took a bite of meat, a calcting look shing across her face, "I haven''t asked you yet, how''s it going with what I told you to do?"


    Although Gao Dalin looked fierce, he actually knew himself that he was not as smart as Gao Second Sister. Although this pair of Gao siblings were vicious, selfish and ruthless, at least they knew themselves well, so between the two, the brains was still Gao Second Sister.


    Thinking of what Gao Second Sister had told him to do, Gao Dalin said sullenly, "I''ve been following her, for three days now. I know when she goes out every day, where she goes, and when shees back."


    "Since you''re clear about it, it''s time for us to take action and close the." Gao Second Sister said, "As long as this n seeds, we siblings will have the capital to gain a foothold in Jincheng. But remember, stay away from the An family in the future. Don''t let them find out about you and me, otherwise no matter how good our ns are, they can kick us out of Jincheng with one word."

 Chapter 105: The Mantis catches the Cicada, the Yellow Sparrow is behind.

    <h4>Chapter 105</h4>


    "I know, I know," Gao Dalin said impatiently.


    It is said that on that day, Gao Second Sister went to An''s house to fetch Gao Meiyun''s corpse. When no one was paying attention, she sneaked into Gao Meiyun''s room and did find some nice things as expected.


    Under Gao Meiyun��s bed was a box, containing two to three hundred dors, and a diary.


    The money itself was a nice surprise, but the diary gave her an even bigger one, including an earth-shattering secret.


    Afraid of forgetting the things from her previous life due to poor memory, Gao Meiyun had recorded all the big and small events she could remember clearly in her diary.


    The wedding day was quite chaotic. She thought the important stuff was not suitable to take away that day, so she hid it under the bed, nning toe back and take it a couple dayster.


    Unexpectedly, something happened on the wedding day, and she never had a chance toe back. She ended up dying outside, which worked out nicely for Gao Second Sister.


    Gao Second Sister had never been a kind person. After learning this secret, she made a series of ns ording to the records in the diary, starting with her and Gao Dalin''s future.


    From the diary, she learned that there were human traffickers near the train station who had been active for many years. They had trafficked countless women and children, with details of the gang''s hideouts recorded precisely.


    These were things An Zhiqing did not know, because during the period when the An family got into trouble in her previous life, she left with them. By the time she came back, An Wenqing had been trafficked. She only managed to catch up but was unable to rescue him, still ending up with a bleak oue and dying in the end.


    An Zhiqing only knew the face of the trafficker who took An Wenqing away. She had gone to the train station to look for him several times in recent days, but it was like finding a needle in the ocean and she found nothing.


    No one would have imagined that Gao Second Sister would actually set her sights on the human traffickers.


    It had to be said, if the malignancy was excluded, the Gao family''s genes were quite outstanding. It was a pity that none of them used their brains for good causes.


    Eighteen years ago, Gao Dazhuang exchanged someone else''s child for his own daughter to have a good life. Two years ago, Gao Meiyun wanted An Zhiqing to die in order to secure her own position. Today, Gao Second Sister dared to take on human traffickers for her future prospects. One really didn''t know whether to praise her for being gutsy.


    Unfortunately, Gao Second Sister didn''t know that before leaving Jincheng, An Zhiqing learned that she hadn''t left and asked Liu Jun to keep an eye on her.


    Of course, An Zhiqing also gave Liu Jun proper payment. She couldn''t expect others to help for free.


    And Liu Jun was willing to help not just because of the money, but also because of An Zhiqing. Furthermore,st time at the Lin family''s ce, it was because of An Zhiqing that he was the first to find out Huang Cui was a spy and arrested Huang Cui''s family members, thus obtaining huge benefits.


    Moreover, with An Zhiqing''s request, Liu Jun specifically ordered one of his subordinates to pay attention to Gao Second Sister and brother''s actions.


    As a result, as soon as Gao Second Sister made a move, Liu Jun received the news on his end and followed them.


    What a coincidence, Gao Second Sister nned everything carefully but gained nothing. On the contrary, Liu Jun snatched the advantage and made another contribution.


    This time, Liu Jun gained a profound realization - ever since getting to know An Zhiqing, he had made one contribution after another, and every time it was because of her. She was simply his lucky star.


    Hence, Liu Jun watched Gao Second Sister and her brother even more attentively.


    In a few days, the man who was guarding Gao Second Sister saved a drowning girl and found himself a wife.


    Liu Jun had an intuition that Gao Second Sister might bring him even bigger surprisester, so he decided to stake out himself. As a result, he happened to save a senior official again...


    After several urrences like this, Gao Second Sister finally realized that Gao Meiyun��s diary could not necessarily bring her good fortune.


    She nned ording to the events recorded in the diary, but the well-nned scheme to catch the human traffickers was ruined by a group of minions.


    That day, a girl from a decent family was going to fall into the river. She let Gao Dalin go save her. Although Gao Dalin did not look good, as long as he tore the girl''s clothes off in the water, she would have to marry him even if unwilling. But in the end, Gao Dalin still failed to snatch her.


    She herself staked out the ce where the senior official would fall, but the lead minion got there first again, sending the official to the hospital and taking credit for it. From start to finish, she didn''t even get to show her face.


    One really didn''t know whether to feel frustrated!


    Mentally devastated, Gao Second Sister decided to return to An Le Vige, because she realized that group of elusive minions was simply her nemesis.


    She didn''t dare take out the money from Gao Meiyun, and had no food tickets or ration book to buy meals in the city. When Gao Dalin tried to steal someone''s dog again, he got bitten by the dog. If they stayed any longer, the two siblings would only starve to death.


    Moreover, they didn''t have an introduction letter. If caught by the neighborhoodmittee, they would only be sent back and criticized.


    It was different for Liu Jun. After getting a taste of benefits for several times, just when he was excited to follow Gao Second Sister, she suddenly returned to An Le Vige.


    Unwilling to give up, he had people keep watch over them for a period of time. Finding that there really was nothing to gain, he finally gave up continuing to watch them.


    Also, Gao Meiyun didn''t have much knowledge in that lifetime. Most of the things she knew about were just casual mentions she overheard from others. She had used some herself after rebirth for two years, and Gao Second Sister plotted unsessfully for several times. There really wasn''t much left.


    As for theter records, they were things that would happen many yearster, and no one knew what they would look like by then.


    ...


    Lingjiang City Food Factory was the only food factory in the city. However, as the region was rtively poor, the food produced was too monotonous and unptable - it couldn''t be sold externally, and locals couldn''t afford it either.


    This time Wu Lei was sent south to learn about new food varieties, but he spent a lot of money and didn''t learn much.


    Food forms were the most core technology for every food factory. Others were also guarding them closely, unwilling to teach if not for an exchange, simply letting him make a wasted trip to make things difficult for him.


    Eating the mung bean cakes An Zhiqing gave him, Wu Lei felt more and more upset as he thought about it.


    If things carried on this way, the factory probably wouldn''tst much longer.


    ...


    Early in the morning, An Zhiqing came over and brought them breakfast. After breakfast, he took Pei Jing out.


    An Zhiqing didn''t idle away either. She went to ask Aunt Fengxia for information, such as the river outside the military district where local women washed their beddings and clothes. With only two wells among dozens of households here, washing queue could get long when it got busy, let alone going to wash beddings and clothes.


    After chatting for a good half day, the roar of a truck sounded and stopped at the door. Pei Jing and An Zhiqing jumped off the truck, and some helpers were with them too. An Zhiqing also got up to take her leave.


    Opening the door, everyone carried things into the house.


    The wardrobe was moved into the room, and also a bedside table. There were two dining tables, one big and one small, both ced outside. The small one could just be pushed under the big one. There were also several chairs and small stools, all looking half old and iplete, some missing arms or legs.


    The kitchen utensils, pots and pans, stove and coal balls...


    The two of them had really gotten a lot of stuff this morning.


    After everything was moved into the house and arranged nicely, Pei Jing thanked the helpers, and An Zhiqing busied herself pouring water for them too.


    An Zhiqing said, "The furniture is a bit dirty. You two clean and tidy them up yourselves. Fix anything that''s not too good. I still have things to do in the afternoon, so I won''t help you guys."

 Chapter 106: He鈥檚 Not Here

    <h4>Chapter 106</h4>


    "Big brother, go ahead and attend to your business. We can handle the rest ourselves," Zhi Xia said, expressing her gratitude to the others as well.


    After they all left, Zhi Xia went to fetch water and clean the table.


    Pei Jing took his tools and repaired any ws in the table and stools.


    "Where did you get these from? You came back so quickly," Zhi Xia asked them in surprise. Although the table and cab seemed a bit old, the wood was in good condition, made of authentic yellow rosewood.


    "We bought them from a junkyard. They may be a bit worn out, but with some repairs, they can still be used. Besides, they are affordable. Customizing new ones would be expensive, and it would take some time to make them," Pei Jing exined, without pausing his actions. "By the way, I also brought some old newspapers and books. We can make some pasteter and wallpaper the wall near the window to prevent dust from falling."


    Unlike thetex paint of the future, the lime used for wallpapering now easily rubbed off, leaving a dusty residue when touched.


    "Alright, I''ll clean the table first and then prepare the paste," Zhi Xia said. Just as she finished speaking, Sister Fengxia approached and immediately joined in, helping with the work. Zhi Xia felt a bit embarrassed by her generosity.


    But she was genuinely a good person, cheerful and generous, and Zhi Xia was grateful to have met such a person.


    After wiping the table and cab, and upon learning that Zhi Xia would be preparing the paste, Sister Fengxia insisted on taking over and asked Zhi Xia to pack their belongings instead.


    The cab that Pei Jing brought back was not small, and she managed to ce both their belongings inside, only taking up a quarter of the space.


    Of course, it was also because they didn''t have many possessions.


    They worked tirelessly until evening, and Zhi Xia looked at Lin Fengxia gratefully. "Thank you so much for today, Sister. Once we''re done with everything in a couple of days, we must invite you and Wu Tuan over for a celebratory drink. You have to show up for that."


    "Sure, I can''t refuse that," Lin Fengxia chuckled. "It''s gettingte, and I need to go back and cook. You two should eat and rest as well."


    After Lin Fengxia left, Zhi Xia let out a sigh and sat on the bed.


    Pei Jing came in from outside and heard her asking, "Are you tired? How are you feeling?"


    "I''m fine, just a bit sore in the waist. Resting for a while will make it better," Zhi Xia replied and asked, "What should we have for dinner tonight?"


    "The kitchen isn''t fully organized yet. I''ll go to the canteen and get some food for us to make do," Pei Jing suggested. "And you, if you''re tired, don''t worry about it. I''ll take care of the rest."


    Zhi Xia smiled and said, "Don''t worry, I''m not that delicate."


    "It''s not about being delicate. It''s just that your health is different now, and you need to take extra care," Pei Jing reminded her.


    When they arrived, both of their grandfathers had repeatedly emphasized this, and even without their reminders, he should take good care of her and not let her tire herself out.


    After spending two or three days, they finally managed to tidy up the house properly.


    Originally, she had nned to host a gathering for herrades and neighbors, but Pei Jing received a sudden mission and left in the afternoon. With the house all tidied up, Zhi Xia finally found herself with some free time.


    Being alone at home, she suddenly felt an overwhelming silence.


    For the past few days, she had been avoiding going into the space for fear of Pei Jing discovering it. So as soon as he left, she entered the space through the hidden door.


    Inside, she found a package of crystal cores, worth a whopping 5,000 Star Coins.


    "Sister, you mentioned having a friend from the interster realm. Can you help me obtain some information about humans venturing into space? Our situation here is quite dire. The has been ravaged by various mutated species and is no longer suitable for human habitation. We have already detected others that could be suitable for resettlement, but our technology is stillcking. Please, I''m begging for your help."


    The affluent woman from a different era replied, "I do have an interster friend, but she belongs to the Insect n. I''m not sure if she can assist you. Wait a moment, let me ask."


    Zhi Xia turned and asked the Queen of the Insect n, only to be questioned in return about what she could offer in exchange.


    There was a moment of silence from Zhi Xia.


    Indeed, for the Queen of the Insect n, the only valuable thing she could provide was nts. However, she had already promised to provide enough food to sustain her throughout the breeding period.


    After a while, a sudden thought struck her. "Do you need mutated nts? Although the quantity may not be significant."


    The Queen of the Insect n responded, "What kind of mutated nts? Show me first."


    Zhi Xia asked "I''m Not a Zombie" to obtain mutated nts and sent them to the Queen of the Insect n.


    After a moment, the Queen of the Insect n replied, "We can trade. How many mutated nts can you provide?"


    She had discovered that mutated nts contained a kind of energy that could enhance her reproductive speed, allowing her colony to grow rapidly.


    The affluent woman from a different era said, "I can''t give you an exact number because these nts are of no use to me, and they are dangerous to harvest due to their destructive nature. I can only tell you that I can provide as many as I can harvest within a month."


    The Queen of the Insect n said, "Deal, but I need them as soon as possible."


    Along with her response came a wristwatch.


    "This is the development trajectory of the interster realm from our side. It contains a wealth of information that might be useful to you."


    Zhi Xia took the watch and studied it herself, discovering that it contained the history of various species'' journey from their homes to the interster realm. There were also many other things she couldn''t understand or exin based on her existing knowledge.


    But to her surprise, she realized that the interster realm was not only inhabited by humans and the Insect n but also by many other species, such as zombies and vampires. There were even beastmen. These species had their own strengths and weaknesses and were distributed across different star systems based on their living conditions. Typically, they didn''t bother each other, although asional conflicts between certain groups could not be entirely ruled out.


    Among them, the Insect n is the weakest, but they possess the strongest reproductive ability. The Queen of the Insect n belongs to the herbivorous insect species, and Zhi Xia knows this well. After all, it has always relied on nts for food.


    Zombies and Vampires are the longest-lived, but theyck the ability to reproduce on their own. They can only propagate through blood transmission, which leads to their rejection and hunting by humans. Beastmen have the strongest physical strength but lower intelligence, and their reproductive ability is average. Humans, although seemingly weaker, are intelligent beings with strong reproductive capabilities, hence they dominate the interster realm.


    After sending the requirements of the Queen of the Insect n and the Artificial Intelligence to me, Zhi Xia, who is not a zombie, received her agreement and a pleasantly surprised response.


    "I''m Not a Zombie: Sister, I really love you so much. You''ve helped me a lot."


    This AI contains a vast amount of knowledge. As long as their researchers can fullyprehend it, it would bring immeasurable benefits to the entire human race.


    Zhi Xia spent 1000 Star Coins to activate the item disy cab. She set it up so that the nts sent from "I''m Not a Zombie" would automatically be converted and disyed in the cab. She also set the selling price to zero so that the Queen of the Insect n could ce orders herself, with Zhi Xia acting as an intermediary.


    Of course, she could also set it up so that others couldn''t ce orders. This interdimensional trading device is truly extraordinary. It seems like there''s nothing it can''t do as long as you have Star Coins.


    Once this was settled, Zhi Xia went to ask the Divine Doctor Sister, "Sister, do you have any scar removal cream that can be used during pregnancy?"


    The scars on her back and legs were somewhat unsightly. Although they couldn''t be seen now because of the cold weather and her clothes, there would be times when she needed to undress at night.


    The Divine Doctor Sister replied, "How severe is it? I need to see it before I can make a conclusion, and you''re in the pregnancy period, so we need to be cautious about medication."


    Zhi Xia used her phone to take pictures of the scars on her back and sent them to the Divine Doctor Sister. After seeing them, the Divine Doctor Sister came to a conclusion, "The ones on your back are not too severe and can be treated with medication. It should take about half a month to remove them. However, the ones on your legs are slightly more severe, and it will probably take a little over a month."


    The Divine Doctor Sister said she would prepare the medicine first and then give it to her.

 Chapter 107: Big Brother is here to check up.

    <h4>Chapter 107</h4>


    Zhi Xia was naturally extremely grateful.


    Considering that the other person was a divine physician, she thought they must have a preference for herbs.


    Although she didn''t have much else, she had plenty of medicinal herbs in her space. If necessary, she could even grow them herself.


    She couldn''t bear to part with the thousand-year-old ginseng, but there were countless hundred-year-old ginseng roots, and there were even many that were only several decades old. They grew not only in the medicinal field but also on the mountainside.


    With this in mind, Zhi Xia suddenly realized that her grandparents were not young anymore, and she also wanted to leave some ginseng for them. However, she didn''t dare to let them consume it indiscriminately, and she couldn''t exin where she got these things from.


    After much deliberation, she decided not to reveal this bottom line.


    Zhi Xia quickly plucked several decades-old ginseng roots and two hundred-year-old ones, and sent them all over.


    Rich Lady Nian: "Sister, can I ask you for another favor? There are several elderly people in my family, probably in their sixties or seventies. Is there any suitable medicine for them to improve their health?"


    The ginseng roots showed that the message was received, but there was no response from the other side.


    Taking advantage of this time, Zhi Xia prepared some stored food and ate while waiting.


    A few minutester, the divine physician sister replied, "I can make some ginseng nourishing pills for you. Can you be more specific about how many elderly people there are and their physical conditions?"


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment. Elder Pei was about the same age as her grandparents. Grandma''s health was rtively good, but Grandpa and Elder Pei had suffered many hidden injuries from their days in the war and would feel ufortable when it was cloudy or rainy.


    After exining these conditions, she asked, "Is that enough? I have some other medicinal ingredients here. Do we need tobine them?"


    The divine physician sister asked, "Sister, what else do you have?"


    The reason she hadn''t replied for such a long time was that she was examining those ginseng roots. They looked freshly dug up, with the soil still slightly moist, but their quality was excellent. She had studied medicine since childhood and learned from the Valley of the King of Medicine, but she had never seen such high-quality medicinal herbs before.


    Rich Lady Nian: "I have many. I have arge medicinal field filled with various herbs. Just let me know what you need."


    The divine physician sister listed more than ten types all at once. Fortunately, Zhi Xia hadplete control over her space and could quickly identify any herb within a certain range just by thinking about it.


    The divine physician sister was extremely excited. As a healer, nothing made her happier than having good-quality medicinal herbs.


    The divine physician sister said, "Sister, have you ever considered selling herbs? I can buy them from you with gold, silver, and precious gems."


    She had the entire backing of the Valley of the King of Medicine, so if she wanted to purchase medicinal herbs, she would definitely need arge quantity.


    Rich Lady Nian: "Of course, if you need them, you cane to me. If the quantity is toorge, you can let me know in advance, and I can help you grow them."


    After all, her space had a fast growth rate. What could be grown in a year would probably mature in less than a month.


    After ending the conversation, Zhi Xia received two boxes of gold and silver as additional rewards.


    After quickly finishing her meal, she began managing her own space.


    The once vast fertilend has now been divided into several parts. One part continues to grow grains, which are meant for the post-apocalyptic era. Another part is dedicated to growing vegetables for the insect race, and now there is a need to allocate a portion for cultivating medicinal herbs.


    Zhi Xia hadn''t entered the space for several days, but she didn''t find it tiring to tend to it. She resumed developing the fields using her consciousness.


    Suddenly, a knocking sound came from outside, and Zhi Xia startled and exited the space.


    The sky had already turnedpletely dark, especially her eyes, which went from bright to pitch ck, leaving her unable to see anything.


    Standing there, waiting for her eyes to adjust to the darkness, Zhi Xia could vaguely make out the interior of the room under the moonlight. She walked over and turned on the light.


    The dim yellow light illuminated the room as she opened the door. The knocking sound from outside continued, and the voice of An Zhiqing came from outside, "Zhi Xia, are you asleep?"


    "I''m here." Zhi Xia opened the door and looked at An Zhiqing, whose hair was dampened by dew. "Big brother, why did youe at this hour?"


    "I just ran into Feng Xia and she said you haven''t had dinner. What''s going on?" An Zhiqing expressed his concern. "Are you not in the mood to cook alone? Did you not go to the canteen either? If that''s the case, I can bring you some food tomorrow. With Pei Jing away, it''s worrisome to leave you alone."


    Zhi Xia frowned, "No, I''ve already eaten. Feng Xia must have made a mistake. I ate a long time ago and was just about to go to bed after closing the door."


    She could only apologize to Feng Xia. If she imed that she hadn''t eaten, her big brother would be even more worried. Besides, she indeed had a meal. "I ate in my room. Maybe Feng Xia didn''t see it and thought I hadn''t eaten."


    "That''s not right. Feng Xia said you locked yourself in the room as soon as Pei Jing left and didn''t open the door or go to the canteen. There was no smokeing from the house either." An Zhiqing was afraid that Zhi Xia might be lying out ofziness, but he couldn''t let this youngdy out of his sight. After all, she had two bodies, and there couldn''t be any mishaps.


    "I really ate. If you don''t believe me, wait for me." Zhi Xia returned to her room and quickly took out the bowl and chopsticks she used for dinner from the space. Fortunately, she had been busy and hadn''t had time to wash them yet.


    An Zhiqing''s face looked somewhat embarrassed. "Then maybe I misheard. By the way, are you afraid of sleeping alone at home?"


    Zhi Xia truly wasn''t afraid. She particrly enjoyed being alone at home.


    After all, when Pei Jing was around, she didn''t dare to enter the space. But when he was gone, she could stay in thefortable space with a suitable temperature, chat with people, explore every corner of the space using her consciousness, and even when she was hungry, she didn''t need to cook as there was food and drink in the space. Not to mention the various fruits in the space; it couldn''t be morefortable.


    After finally sending An Zhiqing away, Zhi Xia closed the door and suddenly burst intoughter.


    It''s really nice to be cared for by someone.


    It turned out that she was also someone who received care.


    But her big brother sure was talkative, endlessly chattering without end.


    Zhi Xia suddenly thought, it would be great if Fourth Brother was here too. He would definitely be even more talkative than her big brother.


    And when he joined the army, surely he would send letters home, and he would definitely write to her. But she was no longer in Jin City, so she wouldn''t receive his letters.


    No, she had to go tomorrow to send a letter to her family. If she received Fourth Brother''s letter and had Third Brother help forward it to her, because she didn''t have Fourth Brother''s specific address yet, she could only receive his letter first to confirm the address before she could send him a letter.


    Also, if he knew that she had married shortly after he left, would he me her for not telling him? Would he be angry with her?

 Chapter 108: Big Brother Care

    <h4>Chapter 108</h4>


    Under the cover of night, Zhi Xia had written a letter which she temporarily stored in her space. On the first night without Pei Jing at home, she lived veryfortably, just like the life she had imagined before.


    The temperature in the space was just right. She could watch dramas, y games, read books, listen to music... However, considering that she was still pregnant, she didn''t dare to stay up toote. When her eyes felt a little strained, she went to bed.


    In the morning, she woke up on the soft big bed in her own space. After washing up, she had originally wanted to make some food first, but remembering what An Zhiqing had saidst night, she decided to start a fire outside instead.


    Coming out of the space wearing cotton-padded jacket and trousers, she was instantly assaulted by the cold all over her body, shivering directly.


    This was the only downside - the huge temperature difference between the inside and outside. She was really afraid that going in and out of the space like this would make her more prone to catch a cold.


    When she was inside the house it was still alright. But after walking out of the door, the weather outside was even colder, mixed with gusts of cold wind blowing by from time to time.


    The coal stove at home hadn''t been lit yet. Because in the past few days, they were busy tidying up the house, and the three meals were all brought back from the canteen by Pei Jing.


    Before leaving, he had wanted to light the coal stove, but Zhi Xia said she could go get meals by herself, so Pei Jing didn''t insist.


    In addition, unlike other families, they didn''t have cabbage, radish stored or vegetables dried that they could use. To buy would require food tickets, and it was inconvenient to run back and forth to town. Also, the cer at home hadn''t been dug yet, so there was no ce to store things. These could only wait until he came back to slowly deal with.


    But before leaving, he had bought this month''s ration of grains, and told her that if she didn''t want to go get meals because it was too cold, she could go to sister-inw Feng Xia''s house to borrow two cabbages, and pay her back after he returned.


    After all, with An Zhiqing around, he was not worried that Zhi Xia would go hungry.


    She took out the brand new coal stove from the kitchen, and put in three lumps of coal.


    Lin Fengxia had many children at home. She had to take care of the older and younger ones early in the morning. Fortunately, the school-aged children could go to school by themselves now without the adults sending them, so the older ones took the younger ones and ran off in a streak, leaving only one preschooler at home to bother her.


    Hearing her talking in the yard, Zhi Xia looked up and called out, "Sister-inw Fengxia, can you help light up the coal for me?"


    "Oh, I just put a new piece in and lit it up this morning. Come over and get it yourself." Lin Fengxia said enthusiastically.


    Zhi Xia took one of her new coal lumps, and went next door to exchange it with the top one that sister-inw Fengxia had just lit.


    However, these words didn''t sit well with Shen Hongxing when she overheard them.


    Looking at Yang Jun who was still eating breakfast in the room, she chattered, "It''s always Sister Fengxia this, Sister Fengxia that. This little daughter-inw of Pei Jing is obviously a silly girl. Giving pastries the day before yesterday and exchanging coal today, who knows what else she has been tricked into giving in ces we can''t see. "


    Hearing this, Yang Jun instantly lost his appetite. Throwing down his chopsticks, he asked her, "Enough. Don''t be a sour grape. Take a look at your own virtue before talking about others. She just moved in and you''re already badmouthing her behind her back, yet you still expect her to give you things. Do you think she''s a fool you can bully however you want?"


    Even if his daughter-inw was silly, Pei Jing was not someone to be trifled with.


    He was the youngest colonel in the entire military district, highly valued by the leaders above. He had aplished countless achievements big and small, and received many merits.


    If it wasn''t for him being too young to be promoted further, his rank could have been raised even higher!


    Since they lived so close, he knew very well that Pei Jing''s wife had given pastries to Sister Fengxia one day, and the next day Sister Fengxia went to help tidy up things at their home for half a day. Yet his own mother-inw didn''t even show her face, and still dared to talk about others.


    It was really shameless. He felt his mother-inw had skin thicker than the soles of shoes.


    "What''s my virtue? What did I do wrong?" Being scolded like this, Shen Hongxing was naturally unhappy. Pointing at Yang Jun, she scolded, "Yang Jun, now that you''ve made it, you look down on me, your yellow-faced mother-inw, don''t you? Day after day, no matter what I do, it''s never to your satisfaction. I can''t even say a word without being wrong. I might as well pack up and go back home, so you can get promoted and get rich and dump your mother-inw, and quickly find a perfect vixen to your liking..."


    "You... you''re simply unreasonable. If you really want me to retire from the army, let''s take the family back to our hometown to farm. Go ahead and keep making trouble!" Yang Jun was toozy to argue with her. He understood that his glib tongue was no match for his mother-inw''s. He simply threw this hat on her and left, to get some peace and quiet for himself.


    The noisy voices faintly reached Zhi Xia, buting to this ce for the past few days, she had gotten used to hearing Shen Hongxing and Yang Jun bicker from time to time.


    Zhi Xia calmly ced the coal lump she had exchanged from Sister Fengxia at the bottom of the stove, then added two more lumps on top, and opened the bottom vent. The fire grew up quickly.


    She carried the stove into the kitchen, boiled two bottles of water, and took out the food she ate from the space. Lighting the coal stove was just for show to others.


    When she had time in the space, she practiced cooking and stored the finished dishes in storage slots. Taking them out, they were still in their original state, quite convenient to eat.


    Also, the cookware in the space was more advanced and easy to use. Washing them was also very convenient.


    With Pei Jing away, although they had bought a big water vat earlier, and he had filled it with water before leaving, she still didn''t know how many days it couldst.


    The people living around were quite crowded, so many could see whoever went in and out. Even just for show, she still had to make a trip or two to fetch water, otherwise it would seem suspicious again likest night when she didn''t cook.


    At noon, An Zhiqing came over again, carrying arge bag with two cabbages and a bag of potatoes.


    "Pei Jing said before leaving that you don''t have any vegetables here, so he told me toe over more often to see if you need anything. Also, don''t worry about saving the water in the vat. Use it as you need. I''lle refill it after it''s used up." An Zhiqing was quite satisfied with this point about Pei Jing. Although not here in person, at least he still remembered to care for the home, indeed a responsible family man.


    Of course, that was the only constion. After all,pared to his own younger sister, Pei Jing was a whole eight years older. Whenever An Zhiqing thought of this, he felt heartache, as if his little bok choy had been dug up by pigs.


    As he spoke, he lifted the lid of the water vat and asked Zhi Xia, "You didn''t use water this morning?" The vat was still full, showing no signs of being used.


    Zhi Xia was startled by his inspection. She quickly exined, "I used it. But I used the remaining hot water from the warmer for washing up in the morning. For cooking, I just made two steamed buns with the pickled vegetables we brought from home, so I didn''t use much."


    In fact, she did her washing in the space, and also used the water in the space for cooking.


    Because she felt the water in the space was more mellow and tasted better.


    She was cared for a bit too closely, leaving Zhi Xia crying inside but unable to cry out.


    Would her elder brothere to inspect like this every day?


    If so, how could she live freely as she wished during the time Pei Jing was not home?


    Fortunately, An Zhiqing didn''t doubt her. Nodding, he said, "Eat and use what you need. If youck anything, just tell your elder brother. With elder brother looking after you while Pei Jing is away, don''t feel reserved."


    An Zhiqing didn''te so diligently for no reason. He could see that his younger sister was a gentle and quiet girl. He was just worried that she would have difficulties but didn''t dare to speak up, which was why he cared more.

 Chapter 109: The Strong Man

    <h4>Chapter 109</h4>


    Knowing that summer should continue to respond, it was hard to fool her older brother, and then she heard him say, "Your body is too weak, you can''t always eat steamed stuffed buns and potato buns. Wait until An Zhiqing finds a way to get you some meat another day to replenish your body properly."


    Knowing summer was really touched, her eyes were a little sour, "Brother, you are so kind. Except for grandpa and grandma and fourth brother, you are the best to me."


    "Silly girl, you are my sister. If An Zhiqing is not good to you, who else can I be good to?" An Zhiqing said with augh, reaching out to rub Knowing Summer''s head, but was unhappy behind her back.


    It was fine with grandpa and grandma, they were elders, he couldn''tpete with them, nor could hepete.


    But Pei Jing was ahead of him, which made him very unhappy.


    An Zhiqing had always been a strong person. Over the years with Pei Jing, the twopeted and fought to move up. He was not in a higher position than Pei Jing because he was weak, just a little less lucky.


    An Zhiqing believed that if he didn''t surpass Pei Jing, he would at least catch up with him someday.


    Therefore, the fourth scumbag brother could not be stronger than him. Sooner orter, he would kick the fourth brother to the corner in his younger sister''s heart.


    Knowing summer was immersed in emotion, unaware of her big brother''s little abacus.


    Likewise, An Zhiang, who was undergoing new recruit training, did not know about his big brother''s bright little abacus. He was even more unaware that his beloved little sister had been married off after being away for just a few days, and his big brother was still eyeing his sister greedily beside him.


    After sending off An Zhiqing, Lin Fengxia pulled her child to stand by the vegetable garden next to the kitchen, just in time to see Knowing Summer in the yard.


    "Knowing Summer, you are so lucky. Look at the good man you married. Your brother loves you so much too. Yesterday evening when my sister-inw went out she happened to run into your big brother. Hearing no cooking sounds from your home, she mentioned it to him. Look, he came over today to bring you vegetables." Lin Fengxia was a little envious. She was not valued at home as an unmarried woman, and none of her many brothers took her seriously.


    Fortunately, life after marriage was not bad. The man was quite aplished and cared about the family. Seeing Pei Jing''s performance these days, she instantly felt her own man was not so great.


    However, Lin Fengxia was also happy for Knowing Summer. She also understood the gap between them. The girl was delicate and soft, obviously the kind that needed to be held gently, not like her, rough and loud. If her man really arranged the homeprehensively like Pei Jing, she might even dislike him for being fussy.


    "Sister-inw, you really shouldn''t have gone to so much trouble. I can cook too. I''m alone at home, so I just make simple meals which is enough to eat. I make little so there is less noise. Also, it''s too cold outside, I''m still not quite used to the weather here yet, so I closed the door during meals." Knowing Summer quickly found an excuse to cover up her behavior.


    Fortunately, Lin Fengxia did not doubt her words, only sighing, "That makes sense too. You southerners who just arrived here can''t stand the cold. I heard that you have four seasons like spring all year round down south, and winter is not very cold either. It''s normal to not be used to it when you just arrived."


    "It''s not that exaggerated, but winter is indeed much warmer than here," Knowing Summer said.


    Seeing that Lin Fengxia was not busy now, Knowing Summer went over to ask her about the distance to town and how to get there.


    Lin Fengxia told her that people did not go to town here every day. There was a market only every other day at noon. The town was not very big, with a Supply and Marketing Cooperative and a Post Office. Goods were not plentiful either, and often sold out, with just a meat seller next to the Supply and Marketing Cooperative. Because it was so cold here in winter, most families dug cers to store vegetables, so there were few vegetable sellers.


    Even military families who did not eat in the canteen would dig a cer at home to store cabbage, potatoes and the like.


    The nearest market was not too far, a half hour bike ride away, but much farther on foot. However, on market days, after leaving the militarypound onto the main road, if lucky, one could hitch a ride on an ox cart from the vige for 5 cents.


    Knowing Summer instantly understood why Pei Jing said conditions were harsh here.


    Fortunately, thank heaven for allowing her to reincarnate and giving her storage space, as well as the inter-dimensional trader, so the poor girl who had seen prosperity in herter life did not have to continue living in hardship. Otherwise, no matter how much money she had, she could not buy anything.


    Due to the poor conditions, Knowing Summer''s n to mail letters was temporarily suspended. She nned to go to town after the ginseng cakes were made to mail them together, saving another trip.


    She also needed a bicycle, whether new or used, at least to make it more convenient to go out.


    She had just learned to ride not long ago. Over time she might forget again, which would be a loss.


    Soon, the medicine was made by the genius doctor sister ording to the physical condition of the three elders, tailor-made health elixirs.


    The medicine bottles were all jade bottles. When Knowing Summer opened them, a strong medicinal fragrance wafted out. Inside were very small granules, with 30 small pills in each palm-sized jade bottle, just the right amount for a month.


    Knowing Summer putbels on the bottles, wrapped them in soft cotton to prevent breakage, and prepared a can of beef chunks she had made in her space as snacks for Wen Qing, as well as tea for grandpa and Pei''s father, a knitted scarf for grandma, a belt for second brother, and two medical books from the genius doctor sister for third brother the doctor.


    Although western medicine was dominant now, limited conditions meant traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis was still mainstream. The genius doctor sister''s medical skills were outstanding, and the two medical books focused mainly on acupuncture and moxibustion, which should help third brother.


    There was also a pair of leather gloves for sister-inw. Winter wasing, and her hands must be very cold riding her bike to and from work every day. The leather gloves would make her much morefortable.


    Including for Pei Xiang, she had prepared a bottle of facial cream medicine. She noticed the girl had some freckles on both sides of her nose. She specifically asked the genius doctor sister to make medicine that could fade those spots after using up the bottle.


    Being far away, she did not have to worry about exposing herself, nor did she need to exin where these things came from.


    Since returning home, she had received many things from them. Second and third brother had also given her money and gifts, and sister-inw was very nice to her too, but she had hesitated to give them anything in return due to concerns.


    Knowing Summer prepared the items and came out of the room, just in time to see Lin Fengxia about to knock on the door.


    "Knowing Summer, didn''t you ask about going to town before? I''m going to the Post Office, are you going too?"


    Knowing Summer said happily, "Yes, I want to mail some things home too."

 Chapter 110: Being Targeted

    <h4>Chapter 110</h4>


    Lin Fengxia: "Alright, get ready and we''ll head out now."


    Zhi Xia saw that Lin Fengxia had tied a headscarf on top of her head, covering up half of her face, and had also slung a bamboo basket over her arm. She went back home to get ready in a simr fashion.


    When they went out, Shen Hongxing also came out, dressed the same way, along with two other sisters-inw. They were all going into town together.


    It''s true you can''t deny, with their heads wrapped up like this, at least the cold wind wasn''t blowing directly on their faces.


    After greeting each other, they set out from the militarypound.


    They were quite fortunate, having just gotten to the main road when they saw an oxcart approaching from the distance.


    Shen Hongxing dashed to the front to g down the cart, and even haggled over the price. The old man driving the oxcart saw they had arge group and charged them 5 cents each. The ox belonged to their vige, and this trip into town was also to run errands for the vige, yet he could earn a couple extra dimes as profit.


    When they reached the town entrance, the old man driving said: "I''ll be able to head back around noon. Will you all need a ride back then too? If so I can wait here for you all, or you can wait here for me earlier."


    Life was hard in the countryside, few could afford watches, they could only estimate time by looking at the sun.


    Lin Fengxiaughed and reminded everyone: "Alright, let''s meet back here at that time. Everyone keep track of the time ande back, if anyone is toote we won''t wait for them."


    Since time was limited, they split up to run their individual errands.


    Lin Fengxia asked Zhi Xia, "Aren''t you going to the post office? Let''s go together since we''re headed the same way, so you don''t get lost."


    Zhi Xia nodded, "Thanks, sister-inw."


    Seeing Zhi Xia''s soft and delicate appearance, Lin Fengxia advised her: "From now on, never go out alone. You''re too pretty, although there are troops stationed here keeping things peaceful, there could still be a few bad people about. What if you run into them when you''re alone with no oxcart in sight? If they pull you into the woods or cornfields, your life will be over. Things like this have happened in previous years, caused quite a stir..."


    Zhi Xia nodded, having lived another life she was determined to protect this one, and didn''t arrogantly think she was safe with her abilities. With her current helpless state, she feared the unexpected rather than the expected.


    At the post office, Zhi Xia took out the items from her slung basket. It was arge package, already divided up at home, with letters tucked inside. She just had to fill out the forms, buy stamps to stick on, and that was it.


    Thinking about how her grandma said she would mail her quilt over, she and Pei Jing had been sharing just one quilt. Whenever he was there, she would unconsciously roll into his embrace at night to keep warm. She heard it would get even colder here soon.


    Zhi Xia had just opened her mouth to ask when she heard Lin Fengxia say: "Is your family sending a lot of things? The post office goes to deliver mail at the militarypound on the 1st and 15th every month. I came to mail things back home, if you aren''t in a rush they can deliver it in a few days..."


    Just as she was speaking, a staff member came over with arge bup sack.


    Lin Fengxia advised her to just have them deliver it, otherwise carrying such a huge sack, there''d be nothing else she could do afterwards.


    Zhi Xia exined the situation again before leaving the post office.


    There were many pedestrians in the streets, with asional vendors, surrounded by crowds of people.


    Lin Fengxia brought Zhi Xia to the Supply and Marketing Cooperative, but seeing the packed crowds inside, Zhi Xia immediately lost any desire to go in. With so many people, getting supplies was like a fight, she simply didn''t have the confidence to wrestle things from others, and worried about getting jostled.


    Right next door was the meat shop and vegetable stands, so Zhi Xia told Lin Fengxia she would head over there instead.


    The meat shop was equally crowded, but at least people were lined up neatly in queues. The vegetable stands only had a few people, at a nce you could see just cabbage, potatoes, radishes, and sweet potato noodles. There were also a fewrge jars, probably for pickled vegetables.


    Zhi Xia looked around, none of the sisters-inw who came together were here. She didn''t get in line, just put her hand in her basket, and suddenly there was arge piece of streaky pork and some ribs, along with a bag of eggs, all covered by a pillowcase concealing the contents.


    She nned to invite big brother over for dinner tonight. After all, he had done so much to help set up their new home since she arrived, yet hadn''t even eaten a meal at their home.


    She thought some more and went to the vegetable stands to buy noodles, spending another dime on a woven bag to hold them.


    She had noodles in her space, but those from modern times couldn''tpare to the purity of noodles from this era.


    After getting everything ready, she went to wait by the entrance of the Supply and Marketing Cooperative. Soon Lin Fengxia and the others came out, baskets fuller than when they arrived.


    Byparison, Zhi Xia''s basket held even more items, with the additional woven bag in hand.


    "Zhi Xia, what did you buy?" Shen Hongxing walked over and lifted the cover of Zhi Xia''s basket, revealing the streaky pork and ribs inside.


    Zhi Xia quickly snatched the pillowcase back to re-cover her basket, "Sister Hongxing, my eldest brother helped our family tremendously these past few days when we moved. And Pei Jing left in a hurry, these past few days even the water in our vats was drawn by big brother. So I bought these to make him a meal to show thanks tonight. Do you have any objections?"


    Seeing Zhi Xia''s obvious anger, Shen Hongxing''s expression instantly changed. She smiled awkwardly, "No objections, no objections. I''m just too nosy is all. But the way you said it, it''s as if you''re angry with me?"


    Zhi Xia was indeed angry at this shameless woman!


    Sister Fengxia mediated between them, "Alright alright, we''re all neighbors here. Zhi Xia don''t be angry, but Hongxing you were in the wrong to lift her basket cover without permission in public like this. We all understand keeping wealth hidden, with peopleing and going, it was improper of you."


    After the brief interlude, they headed to the town entrance together.


    The old man driving had been waiting there for a while already. They each paid their own fare before boarding.


    It seemed Shen Hongxing made it her goal to specifically antagonize Zhi Xia, continuing to bring up the meat Zhi Xia bought under the guise of casual chat, "The Pei family must be quite well-off right? You two really live up toing from the big city. Buying that much meat in one go. Not like us country bumpkins, we''re fortunate to eat meat even once a month, and even then we only dare buy a tiny bit at a time. One month..."


    As she spoke, she exaggeratedly gesticted, tone and motions dramatic, obviously trying to stir up resentment.


    Of everyone on the cart, only Zhi Xia was from the city.


    Zhi Xia snorted, suddenly speaking up, "Sister Hongxing, how have I offended you?"


    "What do you mean by that?" Shen Hongxing hadn''t expected Zhi Xia to confront her so directly, instantly changing expression.


    Zhi Xia smiled, putting on a pensive act, "I remember when I first arrived at the housingpound, Sister Hongxing was already spreading rumors and sullying my reputation outside. I thought I must have done something wrong to offend you, and wanted toe ask in person what my mistake was so I could correct it promptly. Butter Deputy Commander Yang came personally to our home to exin things, and my big brother and Pei Jing also advised me to pretend I didn''t know. I just wanted us to get along well in the future. Yet today Sister Hongxing continues to belittle and provoke me. What''s all this talk about people from the city versus country bumpkins? We''re all the same people. The army doesn''t differentiate treatment for us based on city or rural origins right? Our family is doing a bit better now because we just got married, and there''s only two of us at home unlike you sisters who still have to provide for children. But in a few years when we have kids too, how will we be any different? By then your children will be grown, and your situations may be even better than ours. Isn''t that right, sisters?"

 Chapter 111: The Paradox of A Meal

    <h4>Chapter 111</h4>


    Several sisters-inw nodded continuously. Although they didn''t say it straight out of consideration for Shen Hongxing''s face, everyone understood which side was right.


    A sister-inw suddenly remembered the incident when Shen Hongxing badmouthed Zhi Xia, and her tongue slipped, asking outright, "Hongxing, could it be because Hongmei likes Deputy Commander Pei that you deliberately targeted Zhi Xia?"


    Zhi Xia suddenly looked at that person, "Who is Hongmei?"


    The person next to her nudged the sister-inw, who also reacted sharply, busy saying, "No one, no one. I misspoke. Don''t get the wrong idea, Zhi Xia."


    Although it was hard for urban and rural families to get along in the familypound, after all, everyone had different lifestyles and mindsets. Zhi Xia was quite popr.


    She was originally young, and looked gentle and soft. When she spoke, her voice was tender, clever and well-behaved. Some older military sisters-inw had children almost her age and saw her like a junior.


    Although she didn''t say much more, Zhi Xia kept this sentence in mind.


    As soon as Shen Hongxing heard her sister being mentioned, she also refused to let the matter drop and argued with the sister-inw. From their words, Zhi Xia guessed some things.


    Shen Hongxing''s younger sister Shen Hongmei was in the army''s cultural troupe. She had liked Deputy Commander Pei before, which was widely known, but Pei Jing had always rejected her very clearly.


    And this time, she had followed Pei Jing to the army quite suddenly. Shen Hongmei went to perform elsewhere, so Shen Hongxing was always resentful on behalf of her sister, which was why she repeatedly targeted Zhi Xia.


    Zhi Xia was sure that Pei Jing must not have a rtionship with anyone else. After all, in the previous two lifetimes, he had remained single until death.


    Coming home was really tiring. Her arm that carried the basket ached. Zhi Xia made some food and rested in her room for a while before notifying An Zhiqing toe over tonight.


    An Zhiqing was not in the dormitory yet, so she could only ask someone else to pass on the message.


    After returning, she calcted the time and started preparing in the kitchen.


    With just the two of them, she didn''t n to make too much either. She cooked braised pork, pork rib soup, hot and sour napa cabbage, and steamed buns made from three parts flour for the staple food. It wasn''t excessive at all.


    This was where Zhi Xia was most restrained. She cherished the chance to be reborn and didn''t n to reveal herself either.


    Having witnessed too many couples and loved ones turn against each other, she was even more reluctant to use herself to test human nature.


    Even for her most doting grandparents and Fourth Brother whom she loved the most, it was impossible for them to only love her forever. After all, there would still be other people.


    The safest way in this world was to keep the secret rotting in your heart forever.


    On suitable asions, she could also be very generous, but this did not include gambling her own safety on human nature.


    The aroma from the kitchen was very rich. Along with the close distance, it was impossible to cook something delicious without catching others'' attention.


    It was fine at Lin Fengxia''s ce. The couple were knowledgeable and tactful people who had taught their children to be very polite. Although they were tempted by the smell, no one made a fuss wanting to eat it.


    It didn''t work at Shen Hongxing''s ce. From when Zhi Xia started cooking, Shen Hongxing had been yelling nonstop, scolding the disobedient children andining about her useless husband. She just didn''t stop.


    Zhi Xia also heard the cries of children next door. She thought that it was good she usually cooked in her space. This was the only time she cooked in the kitchen. Otherwise, it would probably incur public wrath if this continued.


    As Zhi Xia thought this, she didn''t know that next door, Shen Hongxing had just made the children cry. Her eyes suddenly lit up as she came up with an idea.


    "Stop crying. Do you still want to eat meat?"


    As soon as the child heard this, he quickly stopped crying. The others stopped crying too and instantly fell silent.


    Shen Hongxing called her youngest child over. "Little one, Mom will get you a bowl. Go overter and call Auntie. Ask her if she''ll give you meat or not."


    Yang Jun had originally been silent. Seeing this, he hurriedly came over and snatched away the bowl, smashing it on the ground. "Shen Hongxing, it''s bad enough that you''re shameless yourself. You even teach children this way. Do you want to raise them all to be like you?"


    Afraid of beingughed at, he didn''t dare speak loudly either.


    He had face, but Shen Hongxing didn''t. She threw a tantrum, rolling on the ground and refusing to get up even when pulled.


    Yang Jun''s face was ck. He hadpletely run out of patience. He simply took the children into the room and ignored her.


    The neighbors also knew Shen Hongxing''s personality. Not even one went over to mediate because thest person who did got scratched twice on the face and was verbally abused badly. No one wanted to help ungratefully anymore.


    You can''t perform a one-man show. With Yang Jun ignoring her, Shen Hongxing also had to get up from the ground. But her mouth was still cursing.


    A fashionably dressed woman came in from outside. Seeing Shen Hongxing''s appearance, she hurried over in concern. "Sister, what''s wrong with you now?"


    "Hongmei, you''re finally back. You don''t know, your sister has been bullied miserably. Your brother-inw doesn''t act human. Back when I married into their family, his parents were alive and he had younger siblings. I raised the children alone in the countryside for so many years beforeing over. It hasn''t even been a few years, and he''s already disgusted by me, this ugly shrew..."


    Shen Hongmei was also a little disgusted, but she understood in her heart that she still needed a reliance here. Her sister was troublesome, and the only one she could rely on was her brother-inw.


    "Sister, you can''t say such things carelessly anymore. Brother-inw is not having an easy time either. Besides, you have to be more understanding of each other when living together. You should also try to understand brother-inw more. He''s already very busy and tired in the army during the day. When hees home, he just wants to rx..." As Shen Hongmei spoke, she signaled to Shen Hongxing with her eyes for her to take the opportunity to get off the stage while she could. Things would only get worse if this continued.


    While Shen Hongxing didn''t say anything to her sister, she listened obediently to this younger sister. It was originally Shen Hongmei, a country girl, who could join the army''s cultural troupe. It was when she came to visit rtives Shen Hongxing that Yang Jun had helped a lot.


    Thinking of Yang Jun''s expression just now, Shen Hongxing also felt somewhat guilty. Persuaded by her sister, she really took the opportunity to step down and didn''t dare make trouble anymore after wiping away her tears.


    After persuading her sister, Shen Hongmei went to persuade her brother-inw too, finally coaxing the couple to let go of their anger. Their fondness for her grew even more.


    As soon as Shen Hongmei returned with the troupe, she heard about Pei Jing bringing his wife to the army. She rushed over, naturally not to mediate but to find out about Zhi Xia.


    Shen Hongxing was naturally close with her sister. Besides, she already disliked Zhi Xia in the first ce and hid nothing, telling her all she knew about Zhi Xia. It included nock of derogatory implications and nder, using the cooking incident to say that she was wasteful and useless in household affairs, and that Pei Jing made a mistake marrying her.


    However, Zhi Xia didn''t know about the situation on this side. She timed the cooking and after finishing, An Zhiqing came over.


    "Little sister, what''s the asion today?" An Zhiqing saw the food wasn''t on the table yet when he entered the kitchen and was stunned.


    The army food was already very good, but it obviously wasn''t as delicate as this.


    Zhi Xia smiled. "A good day. Big brother came at just the right time. Help me bring out the dishes."

 Chapter 112: Not Long to live, but long to die.

    <h4>Chapter 112</h4>


    "What a nice day?" An Zhiqing couldn''t help thinking to himself, did he forget some important asion.


    Just then he saw Zhi Xia wink at him mischievously and say, "Big brother is here, isn''t that a nice day!"


    "You little rascal." An Zhiqingughed helplessly and shook his head, couldn''t help sighing to himself again, if it wasn''t for the baby swap incident back then, such a lovely little sister growing up in his family would surely be doted on by everyone.


    His second and third brother wouldn''t be like now, having a shadow almost when hearing the word "little sister".


    Zhi Xia had been learning cooking from a young chef for a long time after rebirth, plus the ingredients today were ample, needless to say the vor.


    The braised pork was shiny golden, oily and bright, taking a bite was fatty but not greasy, even An Zhiqing who had eaten many delicacies couldn''t help but squint his eyes, carefully enjoying the exploding juiciness in his mouth.


    Originally thinking meat was not easy toe by, he wanted to eat less and save some for his little sister, anyway it''s cold now, leaving the meat for a few more days wouldn''t make it go bad.


    But the vor was just too good, he lost control for a moment, and when he came to his senses, six or seven pieces of braised pork had already went down to his stomach.


    Feeling a little ashamed, he raised his head, and saw Zhi Xia smiling while scooping him soup, "Big brother, you like my cooking right?"


    "This is not just good, it''s fantastic. Little sister, don''tugh at your big brother for eating like he had never eaten meat before. Actually big brother hadn''t had such tasty braised pork for many years."


    "Eat more if you like it." Zhi Xia ced the bowl of ribs and radish soup she justdled in front of him, "Have some soup first to cleanse your pte."


    An Zhiqing originally thought after eating so much heavy vor braised pork, drinking bone broth would be too light, but after taking a sip, the vors of the ribs and radishes blended together was actually pretty good.


    And this bok choy, unlike the cafeteria style, always mixing in some sweet potato starch, was sweet and sour with a little spiciness, simply too delicious.


    Unconsciously, three or four steamed buns went down to his stomach.


    Inparison, Zhi Xia''s appetite was much smaller, just a small piece of fat streaked braised pork, half a bowl of rib soup but she did gnaw on two ribs, and one steamed bun she split with An Zhiqing before finishing.


    "Little sister, your appetite is too small. Anyway you must eat more now, understand?"


    An Zhiqing spoke with hesitation, but the perceptive Zhi Xia immediately guessed, "Big brother, you know already?"


    "Don''t me Pei Jing, I forced him to tell me, after all..." An Zhiqing looked at Zhi Xia''s belly and nodded, "Your big brother is much smarter than those two at home. Your marriage was too rushed, impossible under normal circumstances."


    They both knew clearly in their hearts, An Zhi Ren and An Zhi Ang might not necessarily be too dumb to guess something was going on, they were just used to not interfering and not asking questions.


    Zhi Xia could also see, they were unrestrained spending money on her, but very stingy with emotions.


    But for her, this was already very good. At least since she returned home, her status in their hearts had always been above Gao Mei Yun''s.


    She hadn''t thought of that name for a long time, Zhi Xia lowered her head to hide the emotions in her eyes.


    After that person died, Zhi Xia had a sudden sense of relief, but after her wish for over a hundred years finally came true, she somehow felt empty in her heart, as if not knowing what to do next,pletely unable to find a goal in life.


    When she first found out she had a child in her belly, she was naturally anxious, after the anxiety, there was excitement and joy.


    It''s said marriage is the second rebirth, her first rebirth was not bad, just that good was snatched away by someone else, so it no longer belonged to her.


    But for the second rebirth, she couldpletely take control.


    Pei Jing was a mature and steady man, already quite outstanding and responsible, from a rational perspective, he was a suitable match.


    But Zhi Xia also understood a good marriage needed cultivation.


    His feelings for her now mostly stemmed from the unborn child, a small part was a man''s care and sympathy for the weak, this was also why Zhi Xia tried hard to get close to him.


    She wanted to turn that sympathy into love, it would be a huge project, plus her approaching him was also to break his inherent notions, don''t let him think she was just a weak and pitiful person who needed care.


    Zhi Xia firmly believed for Pei Jing''s personality, if she didn''t take initiative to get close, he would very possibly live separately from her when possible.


    Because for responsibility and physical intimacy, there was a clear separation, he thought care was materialistic, of course, this was also what most people thought nowadays, eat well and live well was the best.


    But Zhi Xia had existed for too long, seen too much, she wanted not just materialistic, but spiritual and physical.


    She didn''t want her marriage to settle, spiritual rapport and physical harmony would make it more perfect.


    Of course, this was all premised on the other party having those conditions, and also made her want to give it a try.


    "Right, just now I saw someone, Pei Jing is not here, big brother will exin it to you first so you don''t hear a twisted version from others and overthink. It might make you worry for no reason." An Zhiqing surely didn''t care about Pei Jing, but he had to care for his little sister, so he decided to be nosy.


    "What is it?" Zhi Xia was called back from her thoughts by An Zhiqing''s words, still looking a little bewildered.


    "That Shen Hongxing next door you know right? If it wasn''t so hard to apply for a house, big brother would never let you live here no matter what." An Zhiqing sighed, but things were as they were, no other way, "Shen Hongxing has a little sister called Shen Hongmei, she is in the army''s performance troupe. She used to like Pei Jing, and confessed publicly a few months ago, but got rejected by Pei Jing. That girl is stubborn, said she won''t give up until Pei Jing marries someone. Sounds a bit hard to deal with, but don''t worry, Pei Jing absolutely has no feelings for her, big brother can attest to that. If he did have anything, I wouldn''t let him off even if you don''t say anything, but...if you hear anything from others, you must not overthink. Remember at all times, you are different now. For some things you have to be open-minded, don''t get angry or sad, and don''t hurt yourself. If anythinges up tell big brother, understand?"


    Seeing how solemn he looked, Zhi Xia couldn''t help bursting outughing, "Big brother, I already know about this. And you can rest assured your little sister is not as fragile as you imagined."


    Let alone Pei Jing having nothing with Shen Hongmei, even if there really was something now, it absolutely wouldn''t hurt her.


    She just felt Pei Jing was not bad, a suitable match, and wanted to develop feelings with him. But after all there were no deep feelings yet.


    Their marriage was just to let the child be born properly.


    So in terms of emotions, no one could bring her harm, not even her own parents.


    The longer one lives, the more indifferent they be emotionally, because the more they see and understand, the clearer it is that some things can''t be forced.


    Zhi Xia didn''t live long, but she existed for quite a while after death.

 Chapter 113: Shen Hongmei鈥檚 Sense of Violation of Peace

    <h4>Chapter 113</h4>


    An Zhiqing''s first reaction was, "Do you know about it? When?" He was suspicious that someone had already been gossiping about his younger sister.


    "At noon when I went to town with Sister-inw Fengxia and several other sisters-inw, Shen Hongxing mentioned it herself when she got into an argument with another sister-inw. She let it slip," Zhi Xia said.


    An Zhiqing was clearly being paranoid. His face cold, he said, "This Shen Hongxing has never been well-behaved. She must have deliberately mentioned this in front of you to make trouble for you. Just you wait, since her husband can''t control her, big brother will have the army discipline her. With the way she is, offending almost half the families in thepound, sooner orter she''ll bring trouble on her husband."


    "Big brother, it''s not worth reporting such idle chatter to the higher-ups. That would make us look petty. She didn''t actually say it on purpose today. Although Shen Hongxing isn''t great, she does stand up for her younger sister. It was another sister-inw who said it. She got into an argument defending Shen Hongmei," Zhi Xia said.


    There were only a few pieces of sweet and sour pork left among the three dishes. As Zhi Xia spoke, she stood up to clean up. An Zhiqing also stood up.


    "Is there water left in the tank? I''ll take this chance to fetch you some more. I''ll be away with thepany for a few days, but Pei Jing should be back soon," he said.


    "There''s still half left. I don''t use much water on my own," Zhi Xia deliberately emptied the water into her space. After all, when she cooked it was just for show. An Zhiqing came by every few days, so she couldn''t very well tell him she never used any water.


    "Then I''ll fill it up for you, just in case Pei Jinges backte and I''m not here. Don''t want you to run out of water," An Zhiqing said.


    He went out the door carrying a bucket of water. The neighbors were used to it by now since it wasn''t the first time.


    Zhi Xia went back inside and took out a lot of yarn and some soft cotton cloth from her space.


    The autumn clothes Pei Jing wore were all pilling. Yet he insisted on wearing them to sleep, and hugging him while he wore those fuzzy clothes was so ufortable.


    She would make him a set of pajamas, since it was for her own benefit she absolutely could not cut corners.


    Just thinking about his embrace made her miss it a bit.


    Although it was cold out, being held by him was like curling up by a stove. At first there was some awkwardness when they started sleeping together, butter they learned to hold each other''s icy feet against their own warm legs to warm up.


    She had to knit two sweaters, one for each of them.


    As for the cotton cloth, it was to prepare clothes for the child in her belly.


    Based on the dream she had, there should be two babies in her womb, and twins ran in their family. She and fourth brother were twins, Zhou Nan and little uncle were also twins, so it was very possible she could have twins too.


    When the time came it would be summer, and babies'' clothes needed changing frequently, so she had to prepare more. Taking advantage of having time now was perfect.


    Right, she also had to keep up with her reading and studies. She had brought several books with her.


    Just like attending the literacy ss, it wasn''t that she couldn''t read, but she had to make sure others knew she could.


    Otherwise, someone who had never set foot in a school suddenly being able to read and do everything would definitely raise suspicions, unless the person was a fool.


    While Pei Jing was still away, she took out all the useful things that wouldn''t seem out of ce from her space. When he came back and saw them, he wouldn''t suspect anything, at most he would think she had just bought them or they had been sent from her family. He couldn''t ask about every single item.


    An Zhiqing told Zhi Xia he was heading back after fetching the water, and she gave him some dried pork she had made, though it was from pork, and tasted quite good too.


    Big brother was clearly harder to fool than fourth brother. Zhi Xia didn''t dare take out beef jerky in front of him, that would be like dancing on the edge of a cliff, asking for death.


    Of course, she didn''t have to keep everything hidden forever, but she had to wait for the right opportunity and source.


    This was also why Zhi Xia chose to make the clothes and knit the sweaters by hand rather than take ready-made items from her space.


    At the very least the workmanship would be hard to exin, the difference between hand-sewn and machine sewn, even with a sewing machine there was no overlock machine.


    Novels and reality were different. Soldiers were naturally highly vignt, so she had to be extra careful.


    Even her own sleepwear was sewn by herself using a sewing machine in her space, after all there had been one at Grandma''s house.


    After An Zhiqing left, just as Zhi Xia was about to close the door, she saw a womaning from the kitchen.


    She had her hair in a high ponytail, wore a turtleneck sweater and tweed coat. A belt at the waist of the coat was tied in a bow, entuating her slender figure. Below she had on ck straight-leg pants and low-heeled oxfords, the whole outfit made Zhi Xia narrow her eyes.


    "Is sister-inw in? Hello, I''m Shen Hongmei, my older sister is Shen Hongxing," Shen Hongmei said smiling as she approached the door, clearly aiming for Zhi Xia.


    Zhi Xia nodded. "Hello, I''m An Zhi Xia. May I ask if you need something?"


    Zhi Xia wondered about her objective - could it be like Shen Hongxing, thinking she had stolen Pei Jing and wanted to oppose her?


    But looking at the smile on her face, it didn''t seem so.


    "Nothing much, I just came to see how beautiful Deputy Regiment Commander Pei''s daughter-inw is. You don''t know, as soon as I got back I heard your name. You really are as pretty as they say," Shen Hongmei familiarly pulled Zhi Xia''s arm and said, "Zhi Xia, I felt close to you as soon as I saw you. What if we were sisters in our past life? And you look younger than me, it feels awkward to call you sister-inw, so why don''t I just call you by your name?"


    There was no harm in a smiling face. No matter her motives, her current attitude was fine, just a bit too enthusiastic.


    When Zhi Xia nodded, Shen Hongmei immediately said, "Wonderful, it''s settled then."


    She looked eagerly into the room and asked, "Zhi Xia, I''ve brought a gift. Won''t you invite me in to sit a while?"


    She waved the small cloth bag in her hand, "These are big red dates given to us by the vigers where our troupe performed. It''s not much, but I brought some for you to try."


    Usually Zhi Xia would refuse, but Shen Hongmei was different.


    From the moment she first saw her, she gave Zhi Xia a tremendous sense of dissonance. Even her current overtly friendly attitude toward Zhi Xia seemed forced, as if she didn''t actually want to get close, yet had no choice.


    Curious, Zhi Xia moved aside to let her in.


    The house looked very different after being tidied uppared to when they first moved in. They ate at a small table, therge square table was covered with a light green tablecloth. The curtains were also light green, and Zhi Xia had folded some paper stars and sporadically hung them up.


    While Zhi Xia observed Shen Hongmei, Shen Hongmei was also surreptitiously surveying Zhi Xia and everything in the house.


    Zhi Xia invited her to sit. In conversation, she made clear her desire to be friends, and said she used to like Pei Jing, but that was in the past. Now that Pei Jing was married, she, Shen Hongmei, was above being a homewrecker.

 Chapter 114: The Controlled Puppet

    <h4>Chapter 114</h4>


    Of course, whether she was telling the truth was something only Zhi Xia herself knew clearly.


    Shen Hongmei sat for a while, as if she had really juste over to give Zhi Xia some jujubes. Her words were very polite, and apart from the sense of aloofness in her eyes and facial expressions thatpletely belied her words, there was nothing that made people feel the slightest bit ufortable.


    She got up to take her leave, and even said Zhi Xia could go to the Cultural Work Troupe to find her and y anytime.


    Zhi Xia had originally wanted her to take the jujubes back, but she stubbornly refused, so Zhi Xia could only ask her to wait a moment. She emptied out the jujubes in the cloth bag, and put some roasted peanuts in instead.


    "Comrade Shen, thank you for the jujubes. These are peanuts I brought from home when I came here. Please try them, they''re freshly roasted." After seeing Shen Hongmei to the door, Zhi Xia said.


    "Didn''t we agree to be good friends from now on? Don''t keep calling me Comrade Shen, it feels too distant. Just call me Hongmei, don''t I call you Zhi Xia too?" Shen Hongmei reached out to take the cloth bag.


    When their fingers inadvertently touched, the dimensional exchange device in the room suddenly lit up and issued a warning. [Detected presence of high tech product, unable to determine good or bad. Please be vignt, host!!!]


    Zhi Xia''s expression changed, and the cloth bag in her hand fell to the ground as well.


    Shen Hongmei was startled for a moment, but calmly smiled and bent down to pick it up. "Look at me, my hands are so cold they''re numb. I can even drop something when picking it up. Don''t mind it, Zhi Xia."


    "You shouldn''t mind, it was my fault for not holding it steady."


    Zhi Xia tried her best to keep her voice steady. She watched Shen Hongmei turn and leave before her face sank.


    After closing the door, she went into her dimensional space without even returning to her room.


    The warning on the dimensional exchange device was still shing. After studying it for a while, Zhi Xia finally understood its purpose.


    Shen Hongmei also had something on her that didn''t belong in this world, but she didn''t know what it was yet. It could be a dimensional space, or a system. Of course, she couldn''t determine if it was good or bad either.


    The dimensional exchange device belonged to the side of justice. This could be seen from its trading rules - it only allowed normal, harmless trading and did not permit damage to dimensions. So it also yed a supplementary role in stabilizing dimensions.


    The device wanted to obtain the object on Shen Hongmei, but there were great difficulties in doing so.


    Just like Zhi Xia, the dimensional space and exchange device were like a golden finger to her. Why would she be willing to give up her things to others? And the device could not make illegal actions like plundering others'' possessions. Shen Hongmei would have to willingly hand it over, but how was that possible?


    Unless the object itself was harmful to Shen Hongmei. In that case, she might not rule out wanting to get rid of it herself.


    Zhi Xia was anxious, but she didn''t know Shen Hongmei was no better off than her.


    Carrying the roasted peanuts Zhi Xia had given back to her room, Shen Hongmei''s sharp eyes noticed the cloth bag was still full. Only then was she satisfied. "That woman still knows better. Stingy with everything, giving neither cake nor meat, and she didn''t even think to give us some jujubes. How could we ept them?"


    Shen Hongmei took the cloth bag from Shen Hongxing''s hands and looked inside to find the jujubes had be peanuts.


    Shen Hongmei quickly exined, "Sis, don''t talk nonsense, okay? She wasn''t stingy at all. I gave her jujubes, and she gave us peanuts in return. She didn''t take advantage of us at all."


    Yang Jun was also increasingly annoyed the more he heard Shen Hongxing speak, especially since she had led their children astray too. He felt utterly helpless.


    They had argued, cursed, and even hit each other, but it didn''t seem to have any effect.


    The thought of divorcing her grew heavier in his heart, but considering his career and the several children at home, divorce didn''t necessarily seem like it would lead to positive change either.


    He remembered when they first met, Shen Hongxing had been a good girl too - capable with housework, gentle and beautiful, and she didn''t look down on his family''s poverty. That was why he married her, vowing to treat her well for life.


    But over the past few years, just as their lives grew better day by day, she had changed.


    In fact, he couldn''t even recall when she had started to change. It was as if slowly, slowly, she had be a different person from who she was.


    Seeing her sullen, silent brother-inw standing in the doorway and her sister''s nonstop chattering, Shen Hongmei felt increasingly guilty.


    "Sis, brother-inw, it''s gettingte. I should go back first." Shen Hongmei''s knitted brows revealed none of the casual demeanor she had shown Zhi Xia earlier.


    "Alright, go back quickly then. Come over to eat tomorrow, sis will make you something tasty." Facing Shen Hongmei, Shen Hongxing was able to reveal a glimpse of her former self that Yang Jun remembered.


    Back then, she had looked at him this tenderly too, saying she didn''t mind his family was poor and had a paralyzed old mother, and wanted to spend her whole life well with him.


    Shen Hongmei thought for a moment and made an excuse that she was busy tomorrow, so wouldn''t being.


    Returning to the dorm and thinking of her sister and brother-inw''s situation, as well as the several children at home, Shen Hongmei felt increasingly uneasy.


    "System, spare my sister and brother-inw, if you still want me to gain favorability for you."


    Ever since she was 10 years old, she had inexplicably gained something in her mind called a System. It told her that as long as she bound with it, she wouldn''t go hungry anymore, she could go to school, gain talents and abilities, and have her parents'' and family''s love - as well as beauty and wealth.


    No matter which of these, they were huge temptations to Shen Hongmei, who had grown up in the countryside going hungry and cold, with parents who favored sons over daughters.


    And the only condition was that she needed to gain favorability from others.


    A 10 year old Shen Hongmei was still a child who could be tricked away with two candies, let alone when facing such huge temptations.


    After binding with the System, Shen Hongmei did gain many things. She could gain favorability by pleasing others, then use that favorability to get resources from the System - including her so-called talents, beauty...


    But very quickly, Shen Hongmei realized that the more favorability someone provided her, the more unlucky they would be.


    First it was her younger brother. Because he often secretly gave her candy, the child contributed a lot of favorability and grew increasingly dependent on her.


    But what followed was him bing increasingly irritable and disobedient, with terrible luck. After a huge fight with the family, he ran away stubbornly and lost his life by falling into a pond.


    Her ymates, parents, vigers - everyone who had contributed favorability to her and gained benefits from her would slowly change, sometimes in luck, sometimes in body - invisible and intangible...


    Shen Hongmei didn''t understand it at first, but as everyone around her changed and she grew older and understood more, she started having doubts and conflicts with the System grew greater and greater.


    She wanted to dissolve the binding, but it was no longer under her control.


    She shut herself in her room to avoid people, but the System''s punishments were also very harsh. She couldn''t even bear the pain from the electric shocks. She had even thought of ending her own life, but she couldn''t even control whether she lived or died anymore.


    Later she understood her own position - at best, she was just a puppet controlled by the System.

 Chapter 115: A Warning to Give

    <h4>Chapter 115</h4>


    For the past 12 years since being bound to the system, most people in the vige have been affected, and if this continues, their lives will be endangered. Shen Hongmei could no longer bear it and had to leave there.


    As her words fell, a trickle of electricity flowed through her body. This was already considered a minor punishment, but it still caused Shen Hongmei to painfully curl up her body.


    She knew this was a warning from the system.


    [Host, what you need to save your sister and brother-inw is not to beg me, but to work hard to gain the favor of others. That way, with other sources of favor, you naturally won''t need them to supplement it anymore.]


    "I''m already trying my best. Don''t forget this is the army. If you go too far, it will be hard not to be discovered by others." This was also why Shen Hongmei had stayed here all along. Although the system still used favor to drain other people''s luck, it didn''t dare go too far either.


    [That''s why I told you to get close to people with great luck--An Zhiqing, Pei Jing... These people have high luck, and they are people you can get in touch with. One of them alone can make up for thousands of ordinary people.]


    The system was also a little arrogant these years as the energy in it increased. It was no longer like before when it had an energy deficiency and could barely operate, only able to coax Shen Hongmei with small benefits to listen to it.


    If it weren''t for this, it would never have chosen a little girl to bind with back then.


    Shen Hongmei was also very helpless. "But I''ve been trying for several years, and their favorability towards me hasn''t gone up at all, especially An Zhiqing and Pei Jing. Those two are already married. If I get any closer to them, won''t I be giving others a handle?"


    Male-female rtionships were a big deal. If she dared to keep pestering Pei Jing after he got married, the team could kick her out.


    [Pei Jing''s wife also has very high luck. You can work on her.]


    "System, you''re not human and don''t understand human feelings. Almost everyone in the army knows about my past pursuit of Pei Jing. She is Pei Jing''s wife. It''s already very gracious of her not to dislike me. How could she possibly provide me with favor?"


    [A woman married for just over a month but already two months pregnant, this handle should be enough for you to operate on, right? If she can''t provide you with favor, then let her die and continue your pursuit of Pei Jing.]


    Shen Hongmei stared in disbelief, subconsciously wanting to refute.


    She didn''t think Zhi Xia was pregnant before marriage. Having experienced too much, she also had some insight. That girl looked gentle and well-behaved, and looked at her guardedly, not like such an improper person.


    Pei Jing was not an irregr person either, and not easy to fool into being someone''s cheap dad.


    So she felt it must be the system making trouble, deliberately creating an illusion for favor, wanting to take someone''s life with it.


    At the same time, Shen Hongmei felt a deep sense of powerlessness in her heart.


    She didn''t want to hurt anyone, whether her own rtives or others.


    Perhaps sensing that Shen Hongmei''s inner resistance was too strong, another trickle of electricity sparked out, very painful but not fatal.


    Shen Hongmei stared with wide eyes and wept silently to resist the pain. Her fingers were clenched tightly around the bed board below her, the bones almost crunched from being clenched so hard, and the bed board shook along with her twitching.


    Seeing her abnormality, Shen Hongmei''s roommates called for someone to take her to the military doctor, then the hospital.


    But it was useless. Even after going to the hospital, nothing could be found wrong with her.


    Her body didn''t have any problems. Who would believe that she, who seemed fine, was actually being controlled by an unknown entity?


    She had asked for help before, but was dismissed as spreading superstition and almost implicated her family.


    At dawn, when Zhi Xia opened the door, Aunt Fengxia said that Shen Hongmei had been hospitalized. She didn''t know what disease she had gotten. People from the Propaganda Group said that she was fine when she went to bed, but suddenly started convulsing uncontrobly with a hideous expression, as if bearing great pain. Anyway, it was indescribable.


    Taking the opportunity of idle chatter, Zhi Xia asked Aunt Fengxia about Shen Hongmei.


    It had to be said, these two sisters wereplete opposites. Shen Hongmei was ill-tempered, petty, and quarrelsome like a shrew, liking to take advantage of others, spread gossip, and offend most people in the familypound. Meanwhile, Shen Hongmei''s reputation was like a fairy descending to earth, and many people had good feelings towards her.


    Oddly, the sisters had a great rtionship despite the extreme contrast.


    If there was anything bad to say about Shen Hongmei, it was that she had entanglements with too many people, both men and women.


    Some who disliked her said she was like a silly girl, seeming to be happy to please anyone and everyone.


    More observant people noticed that in the two years Shen Hongmei had been in the Propaganda Group, whoever got especially close to her tended to have bad luck, ranging from tripping while walking to breaking arms and legs.


    Of course, these were all private thoughts, and no one dared spread superstition in the army yet.


    Also, just because it was the army, the system didn''t dare go too far.


    Fortunately, this ce gathered people with luck. Draining them of a bit of luck at a time from those favorably disposed to Shen Hongmei, then draining again after they recovered a bit, so it wasn''t as severe as the change in Shen Hongmei''s temperament.


    And the reason Shen Hongmei was drained so severely was because the system deliberately did it to threaten Shen Hongmei.


    The evening darkened suddenly and salt-like rain fell.


    Zhi Xia could finally hide indoors.


    She explored unknown areas in her space, tidied up the fields she had nted, asionally exchanged goods, and chatted with friends.


    Listening to music, watching shows, reading novels...


    Life was simply wonderful.


    If only there wasn''t the time bomb that was Shen Hongmei.


    The trading device could detect the anomaly in Shen Hongmei, but she didn''t know if the other party could detect her anomaly.


    After rummaging through the trading device, she finally confirmed one thing - the trading device had fused with the space, and the space was essentially an existence in a different ne from the real world. So as long as Zhi Xia didn''t expose herself, the other party would not be able to discover her.


    But judging from the abnormal events around Shen Hongmei that she had heard about, the high technology on her was probably not a good thing, but something that would bring terrible misfortune to everyone around her. As for how unfortunate, she didn''t know, so Zhi Xia had to be extra careful.


    In the middle of the night, Zhi Xia was still sleeping in the big bed in her space when she heard someone calling her from outside.


    Zhi Xia jumped up from the bed alertly, put on her jacket, shed out of the space, and went to open the door.

 Chapter 116: He鈥檚 Back

    <h4>Chapter 116</h4>


    The world outside the door was a sheet of snowy white, and goose-feather-like kes were still falling unceasingly, while ayer of snow had also settled on Pei Jing standing in the doorway.


    Just as she was about to tell him to hurry inside, her whole body was picked up by him. Once they were inside, he put her down, closed the door behind them, and said, "What are you dazing out for? Hurry back to bed and lie down, don''t catch a cold on such a cold day."


    It was indeed very cold, but Zhi Xia still said, "I didn''t expect you toe back suddenly. Let me pour you some hot water to soak your feet, it''ll be warmer when you sleep too."


    Pei Jing took a nearby towel and wiped his face, then led her by the hand into the room and pressed her down to sit on the bed. "I''ll take care of myself, don''t worry about me. You should take care of yourself first and hurry under the covers."


    Pei Jing''s eyes were on the bedding which, although spread out, was still very tidy and didn''t look like someone had just crawled out from under it.


    But he was in no hurry to ask about it. After getting Zhi Xia to lie down and tucking her in, he went back out.


    Having just returned from outside, he carried in the chill with him, and his military uniform was faintly damp.


    The two hot water bottles were full, and after washing up a little and soaking his feet in a basin, a feeling offort instantly spread from his soles throughout his body.


    After putting on his autumn clothes to sleep in from the wardrobe, he turned and walked out, only to hear Zhi Xia tilting her head back and asking, "Still not ready?"


    "Mm," he grunted in response, and walked out again.


    When he came back in, he was already changed into the autumn clothes he had taken out.


    Zhi Xia had lost her temper from his actions.


    She got out of bed, opened the wardrobe, took out the new pajamas she had made for him, and handed them over. "The clothes you''re wearing are all pilly, it won''t befortable to hug you. These are new pajamas I made for you, wear these to sleep."


    Pei Jing was taken aback but didn''t object either. He just took the clothes and said, "Then I''ll go change."


    Before he could leave, Zhi Xia spoke up again. "It''s so cold outside, with you opening and closing the door, the heat we managed to get in the room will all escape."


    His hand on the doorknob paused, and he turned to look at Zhi Xia. His tranquil eyes were as deep as an abyss.


    Zhi Xia was suddenly nervous under his gaze and ran back to the bed to hide under the covers. "It''s just changing clothes, I won''t look at you anyway."


    Zhi Xia really had no intention of peeking while hiding under the covers, but the room lighting was already dim, and he had turned it off. Rustling sounds came from the foot of the bed, then it quieted after a while, apanied by the sound of him walking over.


    The covers were flipped open at one corner and Pei Jing got in. He immediately felt Zhi Xia''s body shivering.


    Reaching over to her, she was ice cold, without a trace of warmth.


    Pei Jing''s brows furrowed as he pulled her into his arms. "Why are you this cold? Is this how you''ve been enduring it alone all this time?"


    "No, it wasn''t this cold before. It just suddenly started snowing in the afternoon, the temperature dropped, and then I couldn''t get warm in the bedding." In fact, she had juste out from afortable temperature, and facing the chilly weather and icy bedding, it was normal to not adapt immediately.


    Pei Jing held her even tighter against him, trying to transfer his body heat to her. "Why don''t you just go back to Jin City? The difference in temperature here and there is indeed quite big. You''re also pregnant, it must be hard to adapt, and your family is all over there too, it''ll be easier if you go back and have people look after you."


    This winter had just begun, and he might still have missionster that would take him away from home. When he was around he could still look after her somewhat, but what could be done when he wasn''t home?


    An Zhiqing was her brother, true, but he also had his own matters and couldn''t possibly run over every day. And even when he dide, it would only be for a short while and serve no great purpose.


    Since it wasn''t truly that cold, Zhi Xia felt a little guilty. "I''m really fine, and Grandma already sent the quilt over. I went with Sister-in-Law Feng Xia to the post officest time, but it was too heavy and I was afraid I couldn''t carry it back myself, so Sister-in-Law Feng Xia said the postal worker will deliver it on the 15th day of the first lunar month."


    "With this snow, it''ll probably be dyed for a period," said Pei Jing. "Nevermind, let''s just sleep first. I''ll go get it when the snow stops tomorrow."


    They already had twoyers of bedding, having prepared amply after hearing it would be very cold here.


    Afraid that Zhi Xia would be cold, Pei Jing held her tightly against him, and their temperature rose quickly.


    In the middle of the night, Zhi Xia felt she was even sweating a little.


    In fact, Pei Jing was more ufortable.


    The woman in his arms was wearing only a strappy top, with her shoulders and thighspletely bare. He had one arm pillowing her neck, and didn''t even dare to move.


    On top of that, due to a normal physiological reaction, he was afraid he might startle her, so he could only arch his body.


    Zhi Xia tossed about, and Pei Jing took the chance to release her, turning to lie on his side with one hand draped over her waist. The two of them sank into deep slumber.


    At dawn, the bugle call of the troops sounded.


    Zhi Xia stirred and realized half her body was already sprawled over him.


    Reflexively opening her eyes, she also found him looking at her intently.


    Zhi Xia stiffly retracted her limbs, covering up by asking, "Aren''t you assembling today?"


    Ever since the day he arrived, he would get up very early every day and be gone before she woke up.


    "No need, I can rest at home for two days." Pei Jing''s just-woken voice was somewhat hoarse. He hesitated for a moment, then brushed his lips against Zhi Xia''s ear, "Zhi Xia, myrades told me before that intercourse is not allowed in the first three months of pregnancy. You... wait a while more."


    Pei Jing wasn''t a fool, he could sense her constant attempts to get close to him. But he was afraid of harming her.


    Zhi Xia''s eyes instantly went wide as she turned to look at him.


    She had been trying to get closer to him, yes, but she hadn''t been thinking of... that kind of thing!


    She just wanted him to get used to having her around, not keep resisting her.


    But exining now seemed a little too deliberate.


    There was still an imperceptible restless excitement within.


    Their first intimate encounter had not been pleasant, it was even somewhat painful, but that didn''t mean shecked curiosity about such matters.


    Especially having already had the experience once, it was like a feather brushing her heart, and her body''s curiosity outweighed that of her mind.


    Seeing her stunned expression, Pei Jing thought for a moment, then pressed his lips to hers.


    It was but a light touch, sampling it briefly.


    He fled like that, getting up and putting on his clothes, saying he was going to cook first.


    Zhi Xia lightly touched her lips with her fingers, thinking of his awkward actions, and smiled.


    Suddenly, she felt a sense of anticipation.


    By the time she got up and tidied up, Pei Jing had already returned with the food cooked.


    After a night, the snow piled high outside the door, sinking in up to the ankles with each step.


    After breakfast, he took an iron shovel to clear the snow, piling all the snow in the yard into a mound. The small paths in front of each house were also cleared out, and even the roofs were swept clean.

 Chapter 117: Strange Man

    <h4>Chapter 117</h4>


    Pei Jing brushed the snow off his body as he entered the house, saying, "I''m going into town to get some things in a bit. Stay home and be careful - it just snowed so the roads are slippery. Don''t go out if you don''t need to. Wait until I get back if you have anything you need to do."


    "There''s no need to rush, the snow hasn''t stopped yet," Know Summer looked outside worriedly. "Actually I''m not that cold. I was knitting a sweaterst night and lost track of time staying upte. I didn''t want you to scold me for not resting well, so I said I couldn''t get warm under the covers."


    After she finished speaking, Know Summer noticed Pei Jing''s gaze had lingered on her for a while, making her feel rather nervous.


    But instead, he simply said, "I still have to go get the stuff back. This snow ising down heavily, and once it starts snowing here it can keep going for days. I should go while the snow isn''t too deep yet and it doesn''t affect going out. In a few days when it gets deeper, it will be hard to even leave the house."


    Since he put it that way, Know Summer didn''t argue further, just telling him to be careful.


    Before leaving, Pei Jing asked Know Summer to give him some money and ration tickets, because Old Pei had said before their marriage that Pei Jing should hand over all his finances to Know Summer to manage. Currently he didn''t have a penny to his name.


    Know Summer didn''t ask what he was buying, just gave him what he requested.


    With the sudden cold weather, everyone was hiding indoors and noting out. But no one bothering them suited Know Summer just fine.


    Pei Jing came back around noon, arge sack slung over his shoulder, and a bag in his hand, also filled to the brim.


    Know Summer hurried to open the door for him. He put the things down on the floor, and even with his strong physique he couldn''t help but pant tiredly from the effort.


    Know Summer swiftly brushed the snow off of him while he put down the towel and turned to go outside and dust himself off.


    "Did you carry this all the way back from so far away?" Know Summer asked him.


    "No, I borrowed a wheelbarrow and pushed it back," Pei Jing replied. Then he asked her, "Oh right, is there food at home?"


    "I made mixed noodles, I''ll go cook them now," she said and then went out towards the kitchen. She was afraid Pei Jing would follow her in, so once in the kitchen she quickly took out the noodles from her interspatial ring.


    Pei Jing was still organizing the things he brought back in the room, so he didn''t stand on ceremony.


    By the time Know Summer brought the noodles over, he had alreadyid out the items on the table, though he left some things in the bag.


    "This afternoon I''m going to see Pei Meng. The things in the bag are to bring to her. What''s on the table is for you - your health is too frail and you need good nutrition. Eat up, don''t skimp. When it''s gone I''ll figure out more," Pei Jing said while eating.


    Know Summer nodded. "When we came here I brought a lot of facial creams. Bring a couple boxes to Pei Meng when you go. The weather here is quite dry, young girls care about looking pretty, she''ll make good use of them."


    "Alright," Pei Jing didn''t refuse.


    Right after eating, Know Summer took out the items for Pei Meng, and after some thought added some yarn as well, handing it all to Pei Jing.


    She had met Pei Meng a few times before the girl went to the countryside. Though they didn''t interact much, she could tell the girl had a good character.


    For a young girl toe to the countryside alone, having to face the unfamiliar weather and arduous farm work, as well as the difference in living conditions - even if she was well fed and clothed, it certainly wouldn''t be easy to bear.


    In fact, if Pei Jing hadn''t left on his mission, they should have gone to check on her long ago. This dy meant so much time had already passed.


    Pei Jing walked on foot to the vige where Pei Meng was sent down, arriving in the mid afternoon. After asking around the vige, he found out Pei Meng was not staying at the designated ce for educated youths, but was arranged to board with one of the vigers instead.


    In fact the locals here were quite unweing to unfamiliar outsiders. Luckily Pei Jing was in military uniform, which easily earned him others'' trust.


    Following the directions given, Pei Jing found the ce. The front gate was open, but being polite, Pei Jing still called out first from outside, "Is anyone home?"


    "Who is it?" The door curtain of the main room was lifted, and an old woman hunched over with age came out from inside.


    At the same time, the door curtain of the side room was also pulled aside, and Pei Meng''s delighted voice came from that side, "Uncle, you finally came! I''ve been waiting for you so long."


    Pei Meng''s voice gradually turned tearful, clearly like a wronged child.


    Pei Jing reached out and ruffled her hair, just about tofort the girl, when another person emerged from the side room - and it was a man.


    Pei Jing''s heart instantly sank, though with others present he could not outwardly show it on his face.


    "Uncle brought you some things. Is it convenient for me to send them to your room?" Pei Jing asked her.


    Pei Meng quickly nodded. "With all this snow, uncle must be frozen froming all this way. Hurry in and warm up, there''s a heated brick bed inside, it''s nice and warm too."


    The hunchbacked old woman didn''t seem too happy seeing this, but still forced a smile and asked Pei Meng, "Mengmeng, this is...?"


    "This is my uncle. He''s stationed with the troops not far from here and came specially to see me," Pei Meng exined. "Auntie, I''ll take my uncle inside to warm up. Don''t mind us."


    Since it was his niece staying in someone else''s home, and he still didn''t know the circumstances, Pei Jing maintained politeness and expressed his thanks before following Pei Meng inside.


    The old woman signaled to her son - the man who had just emerged from the same room as Pei Meng. The man immediately nodded and rushed to the door, pressing his ear against the curtain to listen.


    Only after ensuring they were observed did Pei Jing go inside the room and look around. There was nothing special about the dwelling, after all this was the countryside, poorer living conditions were to be expected. And the room had a heated brick bed, exuding a wave of warmth even in the middle of the day with windows and curtain closed.


    Pei Meng was only 19. Seeing her uncle after suddenly leaving home, she was already feeling aggrieved, and now could hardly bear it.


    Just as she was about to say something, Pei Jing grabbed her hand and shook his head at her.


    Pei Meng hastily swallowed back the tears that had welled up, looking at Pei Jing in confusion.


    Pei Jing quietly walked over to the door, then abruptly swept the curtain aside, exposing the man outside. Not expecting to be discovered, the man''s expression was somewhat stunned for a moment.


    Fortunately his reaction was quick, and he hastily said, "Comrade, you must be frozen stiffing all this way. My mother said to ask if you want some hot water to warm up?"


    "No need, thank you for the considerate offer. I will speak up if there is anything I require," Pei Jing replied, though he already felt extreme disgust towards this family Pei Meng was boarding with.


    The man left awkwardly, still ncing back once on the way. Seeing Pei Jing''s gaze still cold and fixed on his retreating figure, he was instantly shocked and didn''t dare have any more improper thoughts.


    Only then did Pei Jing let the curtain fall closed and turn back into the room. He immediately asked Pei Meng, "What''s going on here? Why aren''t you staying at the designated ce for educated youth? And this family, have they mistreated you?"


    It was no wonder Pei Jing would ask this - though it was broad daylight, with curtains and doors shut, an unrted man and woman alone together in a room was highly inappropriate by any decent standard.


    He knew Pei Meng''s character very well - his niece would never do anything improper without the family knowing. But outsiders were another story.


    At Pei Jing''s age and experience, he was no naive youth, and understood human nature''s dangerous side all too well.

 Chapter 118: Be Considerate of Each Other鈥檚 Feelings

    <h4>Chapter 118</h4>


    "There were only two houses in the youth settlement where we were sent, and they were already full when we arrived," Pei Meng exined one by one in response to Pei Jing''s questions. "Uncle, you should take me away soon, it''s okay if we get married early. I don''t want to stay here anymore. Although they have been quite nice to me so far, I still feel uneasy. And the son of this family, he keeps deliberately talking to me anding into my room. His two sisters alwayse up with excuses to leave, I feel like they do it on purpose."


    There were many more details that Pei Meng was too embarrassed to mention.


    Like how that man was always trying to touch her and get too close when he talked to her. Thankfully, she was vignt and didn''t let him take advantage of her.


    The toilet in their home didn''t even have a door. The first two days after Pei Meng arrived, that man barged in when she was using it. Luckily, she found the toilet too dirty and hadn''t taken off her pants yet, so he didn''t see anything.


    At the time, she didn''t think much of it and figured he didn''t do it on purpose. But she became wary after that incident and asked the two girls to keep watch outside the door whenever she needed to use the toilet.


    She thought that would prevent any idents from happening again, but he barged in on her once more. Although he still didn''t see anything, she was traumatized.


    The girl who was supposed to be keeping watch imed she just went inside to grab something and didn''t notice him going in.


    Beggars can''t be choosers. As a young girl, Pei Meng didn''t dare confront them directly either. She tried asking the vige chief if she could move somewhere else, but was told that girls from the city were hard to amodate. Conditions werecking in the countryside, so it would be the same anywhere she went.


    In this reputation-obsessed era, she had no one to rely on and didn''t dare use the man of having indecent intentions towards her.


    Later on, she started borrowing other families'' toilets whenever she needed to go. She had to suck up to them each time, but at night she would use a bucket in her room. She was past caring about finding it gross.


    Although Pei Meng was vague in her retelling, just from the brief look earlier, Pei Jing could guess how much she had suffered over the past two months. No wonder she was so eager to leave this ce.


    Pei Meng had a boyfriend in the army that Pei Jing had introduced her to. They exchanged letters regrly, and he had visited her once. But since they weren''t married yet, she was too shy to tell him about these things, and also afraid he would misunderstand and think she was too delicate for hardship if she used it as an excuse to leave the vige.


    Young girls in new rtionships tend to be sensitive. Sometimes they would rather suffer in silence than let others get the wrong idea.


    But she had no such reservations when it came to family.


    After hearing Pei Meng''s story, Pei Jing had already made up his mind. "Mengmeng, go pack up your things. I''ll go talk to the vige chief to exin the situation, then you''lle back to the army with me."


    He definitely wouldn''t feel assured leaving her here after this. It would be toote to regret it if something actually happened to her.


    Although this was the oue she wanted, Pei Meng was still worried. "Can we really do that?"


    After all, being sent down to the countryside was meant to serve a purpose. The original n was for her to get familiar with her intended match, then they could discuss marriage. If she went back to the army now while still a sent-down youth, she was also worried it would negatively impact her uncle.


    "It''ll be fine, just get ready and wait for me." Pei Jing said, taking out two cans of yellow peach and a bag of fruit candy from his bag before heading out the door.


    As long as one was willing to spend the thought and money, nothing was impossible.


    As soon as Pei Jing arrived at the vige chief''s home, he saw the chief''s brats ying in the snow in the yard. Without even asking, he gave away the entire bag of candy.


    It made the ensuing conversation much smoother.


    After all, the candy was gone now. And it wasn''t farming season either. His rank insignia had two stripes and two stars. If he cared to make things difficult, or if something happened to his niece in the vige under the chief''s jurisdiction, thetter would be in hot water.


    So the letter of introduction and leave of absence were easily obtained.


    When Pei Jing returned, Pei Meng had finished packing. The hunchbacked old woman and two girls were inside the room, urgently saying something to her.


    In contrast, Pei Meng''s expression was indifferent.


    Now that her uncle had said he was taking her away, there was no need to continue sucking up to these people.


    "Mengmeng, are you done packing?" Pei Jing called from outside.


    "Yes, uncle, pleasee in and help me carry these." She had a lot of stuff, including bedding and rations. She had also packed up the bedding she lent the two girls to curry favor when she first arrived.


    These were all precious supplies her family went through great pains to prepare for her before she was sent down. She didn''t want others benefiting from them.


    As Pei Jing entered, the hunchbacked old woman spoke up in her wrinkled face, "Comrade soldier, she was staying well in my home, why does she suddenly want to leave now? Did we not treat her properly? Please tell us if we werecking, don''t just take her away like this."


    She had already found out about Pei Meng''s background and saw her as a potential daughter-inw. If the match seeded, she could use the girl''s family connections to get her son a city job in the future. Then they would be city folk.


    It was Pei Meng''s own fault for being so naive and guileless after a sheltered upbringing. When people were slightly nice to her at first, she readily told them everything without wariness. She didn''t expect to catch their eye as a result.


    "Olddy, I''m her uncle. I was away earlier and failed to arrange proper lodging for her. Now that I''m back, I will of course take my niece with me." Pei Jing saw no need to break tiespletely. After all, he still didn''t know the extent of their indecent intentions towards Pei Meng. "Thank you for taking care of Pei Meng during this time."


    After speaking, he carried Pei Meng''s luggage - arge sack, while she held several smaller bags. She happily followed her uncle out.


    The hunchbacked old woman watched them leave, but could find no excuse to ask them to stay. The man beside her was also visibly unhappy. Apart from Pei Meng''s family background, just her looks alone were unmatched by any girl in their vige.


    Marrying such a beautiful wife, he was willing to shave ten years off his life. His only regret was not making a move early on, otherwise he wouldn''t have to stand by helplessly watching her departure now.


    By the time Pei Jing brought Pei Meng home, the sky was already dark.


    Zhi Xia opened the door, a little surprised to see Pei Meng. But she understood that since Pei Jing didn''t mention bringing her back when he left, something must have happened for her to suddenly show up now.


    Although Pei Meng wore rubber shoes, she just had a thin pair inside. After walking for so long, her feet were nearly frozen stiff.


    Zhi Xia quickly brought her a clean pair of cotton-padded shoes and wanted to heat up some water for them to soak their hands and feet, so they could warm up a bit. But Pei Jing took over instead.


    "Zhi Xia, go make us some food first. We haven''t eaten yet."


    "Alright, I''ll make noodles since there''s some prepared already, it''ll be faster too."


    Pei Jing didn''t object. Zhi Xia was a great cook, so he never got tired of her food even if they had it daily.


    After Zhi Xia started boiling the noodles, Pei Jing came in.


    "Sorry, I didn''t discuss with you earlier before suddenly bringing someone back." As a cohabiting couple, he felt some things still required consideration for the other party''s feelings.

 Chapter 119: Peace of Mind at Last

    <h4>Chapter 119</h4>


    "You already told me, it''s the same." Zhi Xia was very satisfied with his awareness, and also felt fortunate that her luck was so good that she could run into such a perfect man even with her eyes closed. "By the way, did something happen to Meng Meng in the countryside?"


    This sudden decision to bring her back, Zhi Xia believed he would not make this decision for no reason.


    Pei Jing nodded and told her about Pei Meng''s situation when she was staying with that family.


    After listening, Zhi Xia panicked, "Fortunately you brought her back, that family didn''t sound good, and that man had ill intentions too. It''s really fortunate you went there and Meng Meng is fine."


    In her previous life, she had heard that some educated youth sent to the countryside were bullied, and even some outstanding male educated youth were schemed against.


    Everyone, in consideration of their reputation, could only choose to swallow their grievances, and forcibly suffer this silent loss.


    Of course Zhi Xia didn''t want these things to happen to her own family. Even for strangers, people with a little heart would be willing to offer up some goodwill.


    Moreover, Pei Meng was originally arranged here because Pei Jing was also here, and because of her boyfriend in the army.


    While they were talking, the noodles were already cooked.


    Pei Jing took the bowl and said, "The roads outside are slippery, be careful when you walk, don''t go out if you don''t need to."


    "I know," Zhi Xia said.


    Inside the house, Pei Meng ate the hot, fragrant noodles, feeling extremely happy.


    "Auntie, your cooking is so delicious. You don''t know, since I went to the countryside, I''ve had nothing but tasteless cornmeal mush and mixed veggie slop every day. These past few months I''ve barely been able to eat or sleep well, I feel like I''ve lost a whole circle."


    The cornmeal Pei Meng was referring to was not the refined corn flour ofter generations, but cornmeal mixed with some corn germ that scraped your throat when you ate it. This was what most ordinary families here ate.


    So she only felt that she didn''t eat well, but didn''t say the family did it on purpose, after all they ate the same things themselves at home.


    There was also the issue of different lifestyles.


    She would hurry to grab a little food into her bowl before every meal, and didn''t dare take too much, for fear of being called a food hoarder, but she really couldn''t stand eating from the same dish as others.


    The family she was staying with had a lot of people, and every meal they would crowd around the table, eating very noisily, stirring their chopsticks around in the serving dishes. She really couldn''t eat like that.


    There were simply too many things like this.


    People from different living environments living together was simply a disaster.


    People who cook like it when others praise their cooking skills. Zhi Xia smiled and said, "Eat up if you like it, there''s still more in the pot, you can go back for seconds after you finish."


    "Mm-hmm," Pei Meng nodded. She really felt like she could eat another bowl. It had been so long since she had felt the satisfaction of eating her fill, moreover such delicious food.


    She guessed that since they had carried so much stuff and walked all this way, they must be starving, which was why Zhi Xia had made so much.


    Pei Jing''s eating manners were a bit more refined. He said to Zhi Xia, "You go rest first, I''ll clean up after we finish eating."


    Pei Meng cut in, "I''ll do it, I''ll do it. Auntie already cooked, although I don''t cook well, at least I can wash the bowls clean. Leave the dishwashing to me from now on."


    Zhi Xia didn''t fight them for it. "Alright, I put hot water on the stove, use that to washter."


    When Zhi Xia returned to the room, she was still thinking about how they should sleep at night. Although the house had two rooms, there was only one bed. There were enough quilts, but making pallets on the floor was clearly unrealistic in this weather.


    Just as she was thinking about this, Pei Jing came in.


    "That was fast, are you done eating?" Zhi Xia asked.


    Perhaps also afraid that Zhi Xia would be unhappy, Pei Jing''s usually candid face also showed some apprehensive expression. "There''s only one bed in the house. I wanted to discuss with you, let Meng Meng sleep with you for now, and I''ll squeeze by in the dorm for a few days. What do you think?"


    "What else can I think? If I didn''t agree, could you drive her out?" Zhi Xia deliberately asked him.


    Seeing her smile, Pei Jing finally breathed a sigh of relief. "Don''t joke like that, it wouldn''t be good for Meng Meng to overhear. If you feel ufortable, I''ll get another bed when the snow stops."


    "No difort at all. Let''s do as you said. Meng Meng is around the same age as me, the two of us together, we might even have more to chat about." If you calcted closely, Pei Meng was actually a year older than Zhi Xia.


    Mentioning age, Pei Jing felt even more awkward.


    Indeed, he wasn''t that old, but there was still some difference between 18 and 26.


    Outside the door, after Pei Jing clearly exined to Pei Meng the sleeping arrangements for the night, he thought for a moment, then added: "Although you''re a junior now, if you calcte closely, your auntie is actually younger than you. So you need to take good care of her, understand?"


    "I get it, I''m not stupid. Don''t worry Uncle, I''ll get on Auntie''s good side, and try to hog your bed for as long as I can. Don''t me me!" Pei Meng joked.


    Pei Jingughed at her teasing. "You little rascal, it''s gettingte, I''m going to the dorm to sleep. Those things in the bag were originally for you, for eating and using. Don''t worry, your auntie isn''t petty. The yarn inside and two bottles of facial oil were things she told me to bring for you."


    "Facial oil, that''s so great!" Pei Meng immediately looked through the bag excitedly, whileining, "Uncle, you don''t know, the weather here is so dry. The facial oil I brought was used up long ago. These days without it my face is always tight, and my hands are chapped too. I feel like I''ve be ugly..."


    Pei Jing had carried the coal stove inside earlier, and took it out again before leaving. Fortunately after burning, the room was much warmer.


    It was still early to sleep, Zhi Xia sat on the bed knitting a sweater. Pei Meng opened the door a crack and asked her, "Auntie, do you want malted milk? Let me make you a cup?"


    "Sure, thanks for the trouble." Zhi Xia thought she wanted to drink it herself but was too embarrassed to indulge alone, which was why she had offered.


    But unexpectedly, she only made one cup, and didn''t drink any herself.


    "What about yours?" Zhi Xia asked in surprise.


    Pei Meng waved her hand. "I just had two bowls of rice, I''m stuffed. I won''t drink any."


    "Alright then, make some more yourself whenever you want to drink it. Treat this like your own home, don''t stand on ceremony." Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Meng nodded. She came over to watch Zhi Xia knit, seeing the novel knitting techniques and different flower patterns, she wanted to learn too. She brought the yarn from the bag outside, and the two sat together on the bed chatting andughingte into the night.


    That night, Pei Meng finally slept soundly again, once more feeling theforts of home.


    Not having to be on guard against others at every moment, not even feeling apprehensive about using the toilet. Although the bedding was not as warm as the brick firece beds in the country, her heart felt warm and at ease.

 Chapter 120: Evil

    <h4>Chapter 120</h4>


    Again it was a night of falling snowkes.


    In the early morning, Pei Jing brought back rice from the canteen. As soon as he walked to the door, he was spotted by Shen Hongxing, who was sweeping snow outside. "Deputy Pei, you''ve already married your wife but you stille back with rice from the canteen every day?"


    Hearing this, Yang Jun scolded her coldly, "It''s none of your business to interfere with others'' affairs. If you have time for that, hurry up and sweep the snow clean. Otherwise when the kidse outter their clothes will get wet again. It''s the middle of winter and they have barely anything to wear."


    "I was just envying their good life. We''re all the same kind of people, but even for meals we have to be so frugal!" Shen Hongxing rolled her eyes, perfectly portraying her caustic expression.


    Abiding by the principle of treating others kindly, Pei Jing said, "Sister-inw, you''ve got that wrong. You have a whole big family eating together, not like it''s just the two of us."


    His intention was that having more people is a blessing, and his current situation with only himself and Zhi Xia was temporary. When they had children in the future, life would naturally not be asfortable as it was now.


    But unbeknownst to him, Shen Hongxing already harbored particr resentment towards Pei Jing and Zhi Xia because of the matter with Shen Hongmei. Her tone was cold and mocking as well. "Deputy Pei, you''re right about that. But speaking of which, sister-inw here has to give you a word of advice. When taking a wife, you can''t just look at her appearance. Especially those fragile, delicate-looking ones who can''t do any work and might not even be able to bear children - not like us..."


    Before she could finish speaking, Yang Jun suddenly came over and pped her across the face. "Are you done talking? Can you shut your mouth?"


    Shen Hongxing looked at him in disbelief. In the next moment she scratched at his face, yelling, "How dare you, Yang Jun! You''ve got some nerveying your hands on me. It''s pitiful I married you young and all these years I''ve served the old and the young..."


    These were words that everyone already understood clearly. Shen Hongxing had brought them up countless times before. At first Yang Jun did feel guilty and apologetic to her. But after so many repetitions he was inevitably getting sick of hearing it.


    Especially when she used these words time and time again to threaten and manipte him.


    Yang Jun didn''t hit back. He crouched on the ground covering his head while Shen Hongxing wed at him several more times. But what he was thinking in his heart was unknown to others.


    Seeing the married couple fighting like this, there were many people around sweeping snow, but no one stepped up to break them apart.


    Pei Jing also couldn''t say anything more. He felt in his heart that with a wife like this, Yang Jun probably didn''t have much of a future to look forward to.


    When he arrived at his own door, he saw that the snow in the yard had been shoveled into a mess. Pei Meng was hiding in the kitchen craning her neck to watch the fight next door.


    Seeing him return, she hurriedly stood up straight and called him little uncle.


    Zhi Xia came out of the kitchen. Seeing the food box in his hands, she said, "I already put porridge on to cook in the pot. Luckily I hadn''t started frying any dishes yet. You don''t need to go get food from the canteen anymore. I can cook."


    Pei Jing thought she had heard Shen Hongxing''s words and was trying to reassure her. "We live our own lives, and don''t need to care what others say. If I want to go to the canteen then I''ll go to the canteen. I''m not spending anyone else''s money so no one can control me."


    "That''s not what I meant. Anyway I don''t have anything else to do at home, and cooking three meals a day keeps me upied. Plus now that little Meng is here, it''s so cold for you to be running to the canteen. And the food wouldn''t be hot anymore by the time you bring it back." Zhi Xia didn''t actually care about Shen Hongxing''s unreasonable criticisms. She just found the woman very strange, always doing things that offended people for no good reason, though who knew what she was thinking.


    Pei Jing said, "Alright, we''ll do as you say."


    He brought the porridge from the kitchen into the room to eat. While they were eating, Pei Meng asked about Shen Hongxing, feeling like the woman seemed to harbor some grudge against her little uncle and aunt.


    Pei Jing told her not to gossip about others behind their backs, otherwise how would she be different from Shen Hongxing?


    Zhi Xia suddenly thought of Shen Hongmei, and deliberately probed, "I wouldn''t say she holds a grudge, but she didn''t get something she coveted, so naturally she''d feel a bit unhappy.


    "What''s she coveting that has anything to do with our family?" Pei Meng still didn''t understand.


    Zhi Xia pointed at Pei Jing with her index finger, then winked at Pei Meng.


    Pei Meng was shocked. She blurted out, "That woman is already married with a bunch of kids, looks to be in her forties already. How could she shamelessly covet my little uncle?"


    Pei Jing was stunned for a moment. He lightly coughed and said, "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    He quickly nced at Zhi Xia, and suddenly realized Shen Hongxing''s younger sister was Shen Hongmei, who had pestered him relentlessly in the past. It seemed Zhi Xia had already heard about the matter.


    "I was never in a rtionship before. Someone did pester me, but I rejected them at the time. Many people know about it already." Pei Jing said.


    Pei Meng''s gaze shifted back and forth between Pei Jing and Zhi Xia. She had wondered before what her little uncle, who seemed indifferent to everything, would be like after getting married.


    Now she knew.


    She really couldn''t tell that her little uncle, who had been like a little adult ever since he was small, was actually quite attentive after marrying.


    "Mm, I''ve heard about it already." Zhi Xia said, "And I''ve even met Shen Hongmei before. She came back the day before it started snowing and came to our house then. She even brought me a bag of red dates, which I didn''t want to ept at first, but she insisted on giving it to me, so I gave her a bag of peanuts in return. This Shen Hongmei is quite pretty and stylish, and speaks very politely. It''s just that her older sister...seems to feel a lot of injustice for her and doesn''t seem to like me."


    "We live our own lives and don''t need to care about others'' unreasonable hassling." Pei Jing didn''t know what Zhi Xia''s intention was in bringing this up. "But Shen Hongmei does have a good reputation. She''s a pir of the cultural troupe, easygoing and generous. As for her sister, she actually wasn''t like this when she first came with the army. Back then I even ate at their house before. I thought she was quite easygoing and generous too. It''s only been thest couple years she''s seemed to have a drastic change in personality. If I didn''t know for sure she was the same person, I''d suspect she was reced by someone else."


    After finishing her meal, Pei Meng went back to the yard to shovel snow again. The winters weren''t that cold in Jingcheng, and the snow was only a thinyer. Not at all like the heavy snow here that couldpletely bury a person and make them vanish. She wasn''t in a hurry to pile all the snow up. She shoveled leisurely while ying around, having a lot of fun.


    A snowball thrown by the kid from sister-inw Feng Xia''s house hit her. Pei Meng immediately dropped the iron shovel in her hands and merrily joined the snowball fight.


    Taking advantage of this time, Zhi Xia looked at Pei Jing with dissatisfaction. "You seem to know Shen Hongmei pretty well. Don''t tell me you had feelings for her in the past?"


    "Don''t randomly specte. I know about her because I investigated her and her sister before." Although it wasn''t good to loudly proim this matter, it also wasn''t some secret that couldn''t be mentioned. Pei Jing softly told Zhi Xia, "This Shen Hongmei originally came to visit her sister a couple years ago. She has a good voice and figure. With Yang Jun''s connections, she stayed in the cultural troupe. She had a good reputation at first in the troupe, but after some time it was discovered that anyone close to her would inevitably run into some minor trouble, like tripping over nothing and splitting their head open, or falling out of bed while sleeping and throwing out their back. These people who had problems had more or less interacted with Shen Hongmei before. The army suspected she might have been turned by the enemy to deliberately sabotage things from within, so we secretly investigated. I was responsible for the case at the time. But the results of the investigation were also odd. The two sisters themselves didn''t seem to have any issues, but the people in Shen Hongmei''s vige did tend to have some problems, which manifested most obviously in bad luck. But that wasn''t definite proof the issue stemmed from her. Plus the policy to crack down on superstition, so no one dared to outright call her sinister. And aside from that initial period, there weren''t any especially severe subsequent incidents. Our superiors felt it might just be a coincidence, so the case was shelved."

 Chapter 121: It鈥檚 Getting Worse

    <h4>Chapter 121</h4>


    "If you put it that way, it does sound rather wicked," Zhi Xia said in surprise, staring with wide eyes. She suddenly became rather curious about just what kind of high-tech gadgetry Shen Hongmei had on her body.


    "Let''s just talk about this between ourselves at home. We shouldn''t mention it when we go out," Pei Jing cautioned, even though he knew Zhi Xia wasn''t the type to gossip maliciously behind people''s backs.


    "I know that. And it''s not like I''m dying to know their business. It''s just that Shen Hongxing has had it out for us all along," Zhi Xia said, looking at him. "There''s a saying, ''Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will win every battle.'' I have to figure out why she''s targeting us first, so I''ll know how to deal with her in the future."


    "I''m surprised you even know that saying. It seems like you''ve been keeping up with your studiestely. If there''s anything you don''t understand or have trouble with, you can ask me or Meng Meng," Pei Jing said. He knew Zhi Xia had brought some books with her when she came.


    It was a good thing for her to love learning this way. An exceptional man like Pei Jing would never want his wife to be an ignorant vige woman who couldn''t read.


    Although his original intention was to take responsibility because of that wild night and the rtionship between their two families, and thenter because of the child, he was always more satisfied deep down when Zhi Xia was willing to study and improve herself.


    "Don''t underestimate me. I just never had the opportunity before. In a few years, I might even be more learned than you," Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Jing chuckled, his voice uncharacteristically yful. "Is that so? Then I look forward to seeing it."


    Zhi Xia still didn''t know he had graduated from a proper military academy.


    "You don''t need to worry too much about Shen Hongxing either. Get along with her if you can, and avoid her if you can''t. We don''t owe her anything, and certainly don''t need to fear her," Pei Jing sighed as he continued. "To be honest, Shen Hongxing used to be quite nice. It''s only in the past couple years that her personality has changed so drastically, and that was right around the time Shen Hongmei first came to visit not long afterwards. If Shen Hongmeies looking for you again, just shut the door and don''t let her in. She has no businessing over here from the performing troupe so often."


    Pei Jing didn''t used to believe in ghosts and spirits, but he had personally handled Shen Hongmei''s investigation, and found the whole thing far too bizarre. At times, he couldn''t help but wonder if there were indeed things in this world that they didn''t know about.


    But knowing something was one thing. When it hadn''t happened to you personally, you still tended to doubt its credibility.


    Outside, Pei Meng was giggling and shouting, "Auntie, they''re all throwing snowballs at me! Come out and help me fight them!"


    Pei Jing shot her a look indicating not to get involved, then went to the door himself and said, "Go y by yourself. Go y out front. Your auntie is expecting now, so we''ll need to shovel all the snow off the yardter to keep the paths from getting slippery."


    Pei Meng was taken aback for a moment before a delighted smile spread across her face. "Really? Then I get to be a big sister again?"


    She didn''t keep ying after that, and called for the other children to stop throwing snowballs that way.


    Pei Jing had spoken loudly enough to be heard on both sides.


    At this point, Zhi Xia was only a few days away from three months along, but they had imed to others she was only a month and a half.


    They would have to exin the month and a half time discrepancyter by saying she had delivered prematurely.


    Lin Fengxia had juste out of the kitchen and happened to hear Pei Jing''s announcement. She had been thinking Shen Hongxing imed they couldn''t conceive, and now suddenly she was pregnant. How delightful!


    She called loudly from the kitchen, "Zhi Xia, so you really are pregnant? Congrattions to you two!"


    Pei Jing answered on Zhi Xia''s behalf, "Sister-inw, yes she''s pregnant, only a month and a half along. We didn''t intend to share the news so early, but we were worried about worrying all you sisters-inw, so we had to tell you sooner."


    Next door, Shen Hongxing knew perfectly well they had said it loudly on purpose for her to hear. She gritted her teeth and grumbled under her breath, "So what if she''s pregnant? With a body as weak as hers, who knows if she can even carry to term? And even if she does give birth, there''s no guarantee she can raise the child well..."


    Yang Jun crouched miserably nearby, his face covered in scratch marks.


    After a while, he finally came to a decision.


    Lately, ever since Hongmei hade back, he felt this woman''s madness had grown worse and worse. At least she used to be discreet when maligning people behind their backs. Now she was provoking them to their faces.


    No matter how he thought about it, he couldn''t understand how his once gentle and kind wife had be such a vicious person, even cursing their neighbor''s unborn child.


    Having just returned from the hospital, Shen Hongmei got up to go reconcile with her sister and brother-inw when she heard they were fighting again, but stopped when she reached the door and went back to lie down instead.


    She couldn''t go over.


    This was all because of her that her sister had changed like this. If her sister didn''t love her so much, none of this would have happened.


    She had to keep her distance from them. She couldn''t keep hurting her sister and brother-inw.


    [Host, if you want to save your sister, you should hurry up and increase her favorability. You don''t want to hurt anyone, so make more people like you. That way, each person only needs to contribute a little favorability without causing them any harm.]


    Sensing Shen Hongmei''s inner longing, the system quickly continued enticing her.


    It had thought it could obtain more energy after leaving that small mountain vige, but unexpectedly, Shen Hongmei had be hesitant and cautious aftering here, and the guards were too vignt for it to make any big moves.


    But looking at its current host, she was growing more and more disobedient. If it didn''t teach her a lesson, she would never understand her ce.


    It snowed for three days before stopping. The umted snow on the ground was very thick, and icicles had also frozen on the eaves. Pei Jing poked them down with a stick.


    Pei Meng didn''t want to return to the countryside again, so her marriage had to be put on the agenda. After all, the household registrations of educated youth went wherever the person went, so she could live here, but her registration and food subsidies were still in the vige.


    Pei Jing called his Second Brother and Sister-in-Law, but with the roads blocked from snow, they could only mail Pei Meng the money and tickets. Pei Jing would have to handle the rest.


    After breakfast, Zhao Xin came over with things in hand. Pei Jing gave him some instructions and then they went out together, saying they wanted to see if they could catch rabbits or fish. If they got lucky, they could have hot pot for dinner.


    There was arge river not far from the military base. With the thick ice from the heavy snow and everyone being free with nothing to do, some people had smashed open holes in the ice to fish, but whether they caught anything was entirely up to luck.


    Pei Meng and Zhao Xin''s acquaintance was also quite fated. Zhao Xin was also from Jincheng. He had gotten injuredst year, and Pei Jing sent him back to recuperate. It was Pei Sheng who went to pick him up, and Pei Meng had spontaneously gone along that day. As a result, Zhao Xin took a liking to her at first sight, insistently pursuing her and willing to lower his status by a generation to marry into Pei Jing''s family if necessary. He had also begged Pei Jing to put in a good word for him.


    Pei Jing was pestered to no end, andter learned Pei Meng wanted to start looking for a partner. So he brought it up.


    Although Zhao Xin''s position wasn''t as high as Pei Jing''s, he was still young and could be considered a promising youth. And with Pei Jing''s rmendation, Pei Sheng trusted his brother''s judgement, saying to let them interact and see where it went.


    The two had exchanged letters for over half a year, and found they were quitepatible. Pei Meng had even met Zhao Xin''s parents before going down to the countryside, and their elders had agreed to arrangements for the future.

 Chapter 122: Overboard Silly

    <h4>Chapter 122</h4>


    Just when the ns fell short of the changes, the wedding originally nned for the end of the year could now only be moved up by two months.


    In the afternoon, Pei Jing and Zhao Xin came back, Zhao Xin carrying two big fish, one of which was half an arm long, and the other one was half bigger.


    Although Pei Jing didn''t catch any rabbits, he brought back a pheasant.


    Just in time there was boiling hot water in the kettle. One of them went to kill the chicken and the other went to kill the fish. Zhi Xia and Pei Meng were in the kitchen washing vegetables and preparing what was needed.


    There was plenty of meat today, so they didn''t need to save it.


    Pei Jing took a fish head and went next door to borrow Lin Fengxia''s hot pot stove, Zhi Xia used the pheasant to make soup stock and cooked a hot pot. Zhao Xin brought arge piece of beef, which he had begged from the cooking unit with great effort.


    After all, today was to discuss his wedding, so the protagonist could not be stingy.


    Zhi Xia cut the beef into strips and marinated it, then set it aside forter use. Pei Meng also washed napa cabbage hearts and white radish.


    The remaining fish head and half body were made into chopped pepper fish head, while the remaining fish tail and the other fish body were fried into fish nuggets.


    At the dinner table, Zhi Xia was naturally quiet, and Pei Meng was also shy and embarrassed to speak, so only Pei Jing and Zhao Xin were talking about the wedding.


    He had applied for the house long ago. Tomorrow he would go to urge the team leader again to approve it as soon as possible. It would be good to get married in winter. Maybe next year he could hold a chubby baby boy.


    Zhao Xin suppressed the excitement in his heart, and drank some wine with Pei Jing while talking. But he didn''t dare to drink too much.


    Zhao Xin��s family conditions were also good. He had two older brothers above him, so the bride price would definitely be higher than for his sister-inw. But this was not very important, because Zhao Xin had his own money, and he had also saved some over the years.


    After eating and drinking enough, Pei Jing said to Zhao Xin, "Why don''t you take Mengmeng out for a walk? She''s been cooped up at home for a few days since she came, and hasn''t gone anywhere. It''s a good chance to get familiar with the surrounding environment."


    "Okay." Zhao Xin looked at Pei Jing gratefully, already eager in his heart. When he turned to look at Pei Meng, there was still a hint of shyness, "Mengmeng, let me take you out for a walk?"


    Pei Meng looked at the table full of leftovers. Although she also wanted to go out in her heart, she still restrained herself and said, "Let''s not go."


    Her aunt was pregnant, and had been busy cooking all day today. It was not right to let her clean up alone after eating.


    Pei Jing saw Pei Meng''s expression and guessed her thoughts. He said, "Don''t worry, I''ll clean up the tableter. I won''t tire out your aunt."


    "Okay then." Pei Meng finally agreed.


    Once out of the door, Zhao Xin asked the question in his heart, "Your uncle seems to have changed a lot. I really can''t imagine that after getting married, he would be such a good homemaker."


    A few days ago, he even saw him carrying clothes to the river to wash, although this wasmon in the army, but which of the other big men going to wash clothes was not a bachelor?


    Those who married a wife basically let go of everything and didn''t care at all. Just going home to collect money every month was enough.


    Pei Meng was not stupid at all, on the contrary, she was very clever in her heart. She just took this opportunity to test, "How could that be? My uncle is the best man in the world, thoughtful and caring. Except that he is not good at cooking, he is almost perfect."


    Of course, the actual performance was definitely not as exaggerated as Pei Meng said.


    Zhao Xin immediately understood her meaning, "Mengmeng, don''t worry. I will definitely learn from uncle and cherish you in the future."


    The bride had not been brought home yet, so she had to be treasured a little, and catered a little. As for after the wedding, after the initial honeymoon period, it would depend on thepatibility between the two.


    It was not reasonable for one person to do nothing, earn money, do housework, and let the other person take care of everything.


    Pei Meng shyly turned her face to one side, "Who wants you to cherish me, I''m notcking care."


    "Isn''t it better to have one more person caring for you?"


    As the two spoke sugary words, they walked farther and farther.


    Pei Jing was never the kind of all talk and no action. He let Zhi Xia rest and briskly cleaned up the table himself.


    Before he had time to wash the bowls and chopsticks he put in the kitchen, he heard a crisp, fluttering sound outside, as if someone had fallen into the water.


    Pei Jing was shocked. He hurriedly wiped his hands and went out. He saw Zhi Xia was also at the door.


    "The ground is frozen outside and very slippery. Don''t go out. I''ll go see what''s up." It was Shen Hongxing��s voiceing from next door. Pei Jing said and went over.


    Then he didn''te back.


    It was when Lin Fengxia came back that Zhi Xia knew what had happened.


    Shen Hongxing��s eldest son fell into an ice hole while fishing. Zhao Xin, who had just gone out, was pulled by a group of children to rescue him. Both of them were now sent to the hospital.


    Pei Jing and Pei Meng took the army vehicle to the hospital. The situation was still unknown.


    Zhi Xia''s heart tightened. If it was someone else who fell into the water, she might have thought it was just an ident.


    But it involved Shen Hongmei and Shen Hongxing, the pair of sisters, plus what Pei Jing had told her these past few days, she couldn''t help but start theorizing.


    After all, she herself was a special existence, with both space and trading devices that were unusual. And the trading device��s judgment of Shen Hongmei, it was normal for her to think more.


    Zhi Xia could do nothing now, she could only hope that the two who fell into the water would be safe.


    It was only at noon the next day that Pei Jing came back with the army vehicle. Fortunately, both were rescued, but the fall into the icy water caused great damage to Zhao Xin��s body. He inevitably became seriously ill. Pei Meng stayed in the hospital to take care of him.


    Shen Hongxing��s son had been in the water longer, and was still a half-grown child, so he was not so fortunate. Although his life was saved, the child was still unconscious now, and the specifics could only wait and see.


    Pei Jing had to go over again to bring them some living supplies, since the two had nothing there, they had to live somehow.


    Since Zhi Xia was pregnant, and the roads were slippery after the recent snow, she didn''t mention going to visit them, so as not to cause more trouble.


    She gave Pei Jing 20 yuan, and also gave him all the meat tickets at home, so that Pei Meng could take good care of Zhao Xin there.


    After caring for Zhao Xin for three days, the two finally came back, but Zhao Xin''s body still needed recuperation for a period of time. To reward him for saving lives, the army approved the house he had applied for in advance, next to Lin Fengxia''s, very close to Zhi Xia��s.


    Although Zhi Xia was still forbidden by Pei Jing to go out, at least she could help with cooking. She was good at cooking, and specially asked the genius doctor sister to teach her medicated meals to nourish Zhao Xin''s body. Except foring back to get meals, Pei Meng also stayed there to take care of Zhao Xin.


    Pei Jing even joked with him to hurry up and get the marriage certificate once he could move, so as to legitimize their rtionship.


    In recent days, Shen Hongxing had been in a daze, alsocking in spirit. Every day after cooking for her child, she would just sit motionless at the door, not minding the cold.


    Yang Jun was waiting on their son who fell into the water at the hospital, and would not be back for seven or eight days.


    But unfortunately, the child who had been happily ying snowball fights just a while ago, had be an idiot.

 Chapter 123: The Most Righteous

    <h4>Chapter 123</h4>


    That night, Lin Fengxia and her husband walked by carrying a bag of eggs, and reminded Zhi Xia, "Everyone around here has gone to visit Dawei. The child is also pitiful. Do you guys want to go see him too?"


    Yang Dawei was the eldest son of Shen Hongxing. He had be mentally disabled after falling into the water. In the past two years, Shen Hongxing''s gossipy nature had offended quite a few people, but in essence, no one held any deep resentment against her. At this time, even those with some dissatisfaction towards her felt sympathy.


    Pei Jing was not home, and Shen Hongxing had always looked down on Zhi Xia. Now this incident had happened, thinking it was better to err on the side of caution, Zhi Xia would not go to Shen''s home alone.


    "Thank you for the reminder, sister-inw. You guys go ahead first. I''ll discuss it with Pei Jing when he gets back."


    "Alright, we''ll go first then." Lin Fengxia just thought she was young and might not understand the human rtionships here, which is why she kindly reminded her. She did not insist that Zhi Xia must go.


    After Lin Fengxia and Wu Shengli left, Zhi Xia went back inside.


    There was still one can of canned food that Pei Jing had brought back recently, and some condensed milk left too. But the families were not close enough for her to be overly generous. Still, thinking the child was pitiful, and that Yang Jun was a decent man, she took a pack of peach cakes from her storage space, wrapped them in in oil paper, and also took out somemon fruit candies.


    One can of canned food, one pack of peach cakes, plus the fruit candies, was neither stingy nor pretentious.


    When Pei Jing returned, Zhi Xia told him about the situation. She said the peach cakes and fruit candies hade with the quilt her grandmother had sent.


    Pei Jing had wanted to go over himself initially, but Zhi Xia still wanted to find out if Yang Dawei''s ident was truly just an ident, or if there were other reasons behind it. With this thinking, she would inevitably have more contact with Shen Hongxing''s family.


    Although Shen Hongmei''s abnormality had not affected her life so far, having a time bomb next to her made one feel uneasy not knowing its purpose.


    By the time they arrived, it was just getting dark. People had been visiting the family all day, and their table was filled with the gifts and food brought over. Yang Jun''s face was also tired.


    For the first time, the house was so quiet, without Shen Hongxing''s usual chattering.


    After resting in the hospital for many days, Yang Dawei''s physical condition was fine. He just had some weakness left over from being soaked in the cold water. Now he had been coaxed to sleep, but it was unclear if he was dreaming about something. His face kept showing a silly smile, with drool dripping down his cheeks.


    That was the genuine foolish look, not a child''s innocence.


    Shen Hongxing took a towel and lovingly wiped away his drool, when she heard Yang Jun say, "Hongxing, let''s get a divorce."


    Shen Hongxing had still been immersed in guilt and did not dare speak. Hearing this suddenly, she was stunned, and looked back at him. "What did you say?"


    "I said let''s get a divorce." Yang Jun stared at her, his eyes red,pletely firm.


    Shen Hongxing immediately cried, "Yang Jun, you are heartless..."


    "I know what you want to say. Shen Hongxing, just take it as Yang Jun has wronged you, that I''m a bastard who doesn''t deserve to be human." He had heard these words too many times. From initial remorse and distress, to now where he could barely be patient, "Even for the sake of our children, let me go. I''ll let you go too. After the divorce, take half the family money. I''ll take the four kids. I''ve applied for early retirement from the army. Dawei has be foolish, this family can''t take your troublemaking anymore!"


    Zhi Xia and Pei Jing had just walked into their yard when they heard Yang Jun''s fragmented, grief-filled voice.


    The two silently nced at each other, realizing they seemed to havee at the wrong time.


    Right then, Yang''s other children saw them and called out.


    Shen Hongxing was already upset, and now shepletely lost control and rushed at Pei Jing and Zhi Xia. "This is all your fault! If not for the fishy smell all over the yard from you eating fish, Dawei wouldn''t have craved it and gone to poke holes in the ice to fish, you jinx! Why didn''t you fall into the icy hole instead..."


    Pei Jing didn''t want to attack the emotionally copsed Shen Hongxing. He could only hug Zhi Xia by the waist and dodge. Shen Hongxing crashed heavily to the ground, even bleeding from her nose. This showed how fiercely she had rushed at them.


    If she had identally collided with Zhi Xia, things would have been even worse.


    Luckily, Zhi Xia greatly valued her life and tended to overthink things, which is why she had insisted on waiting for Pei Jing to go together.


    Yang Jun also hadn''t expected Shen Hongxing to have another outburst. By the time he saw her rushing at Pei Jing and Zhi Xia, it was toote to stop her. Fortunately, they dodged in time, avoiding anything more serious. Only then did he breath a sigh of relief.


    "Are you done making a scene?" Even Yang Jun''s patience wore out and he snapped. "Shen Hongxing, the one who hurt Dawei wasn''t anyone else, it was you, his own birth mother. Have you forgotten what you said that day? Starting that afternoon, all you did was curse and swear,ining the child doesn''t listen,ining I don''t let you eat meat, then youshed out and scolded Dawei, saying all he does is y on the ice every day without ever catching a fish, calling him a useless thing. If not for those words, how could the child run to poke holes in the icy pond sote at night? Wasn''t it to satisfy you, his mother?"


    The winters here were extremely cold, and the river ice was very thick. The small ponds outside the army base were stagnant water, and had been frozen over with children sliding around to y since early on.


    Of course Pei Jing and Zhao Xin would not smash holes in the small river here. And with children often ying around, they wouldn''t foolishly smash holes in the ice either. They had fished in a distant big river, and after finishing had also checked to make sure the holes wouldn''t endanger anyone before leaving.


    Shen Hongxing naturally knew the reason behind this. She just couldn''t ept that her son had be this way because of her.


    What she needed now was not reason, but an outlet to shift the me onto others, so she could justify rejecting Yang Jun''s request for divorce.


    This was not her fault, so it could only be someone else''s fault.


    "You''re making things up. I didn''t tell him to go smash the river ice. I didn''t..." But faced with Yang Jun''s continuous usations, she seemed unable to refute them. "I was just in a bad mood then. I just..."


    How could she brazenly say she didn''t even crave the fish that much? Shen Hongxing didn''t even know what was going on with herself. It was as if there was always a fire smoldering inside her, making her find everything irritating and wanting to vent.


    Yang Jun rubbed his head in frustration, truly in no mood to care about Shen Hongxing''s bloody appearance. He walked to Pei Jing as calmly as he could, and gave a wry smile. "Sorry about this. She''s always been abnormal. Please don''t take it to heart."


    He had clearly exhausted his patience with Shen Hongxing, yet still apologized on her behalf. Yang Jun could be said to have been benevolent and righteous to her until the end.

 Chapter 124: The Culprit

    <h4>Chapter 124</h4>


    Pei Jing didn''t pretend to be generous and say forgiving words. He just calmly handed the things in his hands to Yang Jun, "This is for Da Wei, you can take it. We won''t go in. We''lle to see him another day."


    "Okay, thanks for your kindness. When Da Wei gets better, I''ll take him to your house to y." He didn''t dare say he would let Pei Jing and Zhi Xiae to his house. Pei Jing''s family was pregnant, and no one knew what kind of extreme reaction Shen Hongxing would have if she came again.


    Pei Jing took Zhi Xia back to inquire about her.


    After learning that Zhi Xia was fine, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Pei Meng came back after sending meals to Zhao Xin. Pei Jing didn''t need to go to the dormitory now, so he went directly to squeeze with Zhao Xin.


    At night, Pei Meng also learnt about the whole story of why Yang Dawei fell into the ice cave, and her heart was full of sorrow.


    At dawn, Zhi Xia opened the door and just happened to see Shen Hongmei looking around on the road in front of Shen Hongxing''s door.


    She also saw Zhi Xia. Her gloomyplexion barely smiled, but it looked more pitiful.


    Zhi Xia''s eyes were downcast. When she looked up again, she moved her steps and walked towards Shen Hongmei.


    She probably understood Zhi Xia''s purpose and also moved her footsteps over here.


    "You''vee to see your sister and Da Wei, right?" Zhi Xia took the lead and said, "When we went to visit Da Wei yesterday, we just happened to hear that your brother-inw was going to divorce your sister. She''s not in a very good state. You''d better go see her."


    When Shen Hongmei heard this, her already not very goodplexion turned even paler, and her body also seemed to be shaking.


    She reflexively turned around and wanted to go see Shen Hongxing, but she didn''t know what she was thinking. She suddenly stopped in her tracks.


    After a while, she turned back, "I...I''m still busy with the Propaganda Group these days, and may not have time. Can you tell me how Da Wei is doing?"


    "I heard he became silly. I didn''t see anyone when I went over yesterday. I don''t know the specifics either." Zhi Xia told the truth.


    In fact, they all knew clearly that even if the Propaganda Group was busy, it would be impossible to not even have time to see people, let alone she was already at the door.


    It was obvious that she didn''t want to get close to Shen Hongxing anymore, or rather, she didn''t dare to get close.


    Zhi Xia was already guessing that perhaps Shen Hongmei didn''t deliberately want to harm people, but was coerced by the thing in her body, and hadpletely lost control of herself.


    Including her previous approach to Pei Jing, it was probably for some other purpose.


    After all, ording to Shen Hongmei''s performance, she didn''t really look like someone who loved Pei Jing but couldn''t be with him.


    Although she had already heard from others what had happened to her sister and nephew, when she heard it again from Zhi Xia��s mouth, Shen Hongmei was still very upset.


    She didn''t even dare to see them anymore. She was really afraid to see what her sister and Da Wei looked like, and could no longer bear their kindness to her.


    Because only she herself knew that in all these events, she was the real culprit.


    Her sister''s drastic change in temper was her punishment for trying to escape the control system. The system had promised her that it would no longer hurt her family, but it broke its word.


    Shen Hongmei knew that this was another warning from it to her.


    When people are alive, they can''t bepletely without scruples. Shen Hongmei''s biggest scruples were her loved ones, and it was also the system''s handle on her.


    She could make people not have good feelings for her so as not to get hurt, but how could her own flesh and blood rtives not have a little good feeling for her?


    Shen Hongmei felt a fishy and sweet taste in her throat, as if something was stuck in her throat. She turned around wanting to flee.


    Zhi Xia called to stop her, "Comrade Shen, I''ve heard about what happened to your sister. Aren''t you surprised by her sudden, drastic change in mood?"


    Shen Hongmei instinctively looked back, "What do you mean?"


    Zhi Xia walked over, looking straight into her eyes, "What I mean is that there are some things in this world that are not under human control, and I just happen to have some kind of special ability that may be able to help you resolve some troubles you want to get rid of."


    The system in her mind that could notice everything in the outside world sensed something and was frantically jittering.


    [Host, don''t listen to her nonsense. Leave here now.]


    Shen Hongmei ignored the system and tentatively asked, "Do you know what you''re talking about? Aren''t you afraid I''ll report you for spreading superstition and supernatural powers in the army?"


    "You can try it and see if anyone will believe your words." Zhi Xia was not in a hurry, because Shen Hongmei was the one who desperately wanted to get rid of these things. And with just the two of them talking, Zhi Xia believed that she, who had a guilty conscience, was the one who didn''t dare speak nonsense. "You can think about it carefully. When you''ve thought it through, feel free toe find me anytime."


    The urgency of the system in her mind made Shen Hongmei more certain that perhaps Zhi Xia really had some special abilities that could help her get rid of the system''s control.


    A ray of hope suddenly rose in Shen Hongmei''s heart. She looked eagerly at Zhi Xia, "I..."


    Just as she was about to reveal her secret, a strong electric current flowed through her whole body, instantly paralyzing her nerves. She fell down in front of Zhi Xia, convulsing ceaselessly.


    Zhi Xia hurriedly grabbed her wrist. At that moment, she also saw the plea in Shen Hongmei''s eyes through the energy of the Transactioner.


    Shen Hongxing happened toe out from the room at this time. Seeing this scene, she rushed over like crazy, "What are you doing? What have you done to my sister?"


    Hearing these words and seeing Shen Hongxing''s figure, Zhi Xia quickly let go of Shen Hongmei and took a few steps back, ready to defend herself in case Shen Hongxing rushed at her.


    Pei Meng, who had just got upzily, also saw this scene and hurriedly blocked in front of Zhi Xia. Fortunately, Shen Hongxing was worried about Shen Hongmei and hurried to check Shen Hongmei''s condition.


    Shen Hongmei was helped up by Shen Hongxing. Apart from her even palerplexion, nothing else could be seen.


    Until she left leaning on Shen Hongxing, her eyes still nced unnoticed in Zhi Xia''s direction.


    "Mengmeng, I''m a little dizzy. I''ll go back to the room and lie down first. Just make some simple breakfast." Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Meng thought Zhi Xia was frightened and hurriedly supported her, "Is it serious? Let me help you back first, then I''ll call Uncle Pei toe back and take a look, okay?"


    "These are all normal reactions during pregnancy. I just stood up too quickly and got dizzy. I''ll be fine after lying down in the room for a while. Don''t let him worry."


    Girls tend to be anemic. Pei Meng also sometimes got dizzy when she got up too quickly, so she believed Zhi Xia''s words.


    On the other side, Shen Hongmei and the system finally reached a consensus again before the electric shock punishment finally ended.

 Chapter 125: The Change

    <h4>Chapter 125</h4>


    Shen Hongmei exined to outsiders that she had epilepsy, which caused her asional convulsions, and this reason could not help but make the people who liked her feel regretful.


    Although Zhi Xia also wanted to help Shen Hongmei get rid of the things in her body, Shen Hongmei did not appear again for a long time afterwards, and Zhi Xia did not know whether she was being controlled or was reluctant to part with that thing.


    After all, everything has reciprocity. Since that thing could lurk in Shen Hongmei''s body to do evil, ording to Shen Hongmei''s usual style, she herself should also have gained considerable benefits.


    After all, a girl from the countryside who had never even entered the school gate could be selected for the Propaganda Group and have a certain amount of knowledge reserves, dress fashionably, and asionally take out some fast-moving goods.


    Zhi Xia also had this ability, but she didn''t even dare to show it too much. Up until now, she still insisted on reading and practicing calligraphy every day under the noses of Pei Jing and Pei Meng, making slow progress.


    Inparison, Shen Hongmei''s approach was really too bold. In the two years in the Propaganda Group, she created three songs with considerable poprity, and also had a certain dancing foundation.


    It was no wonder the army thought she was abnormal. If they didn''t have to think in the metaphysical direction, she would have been arrested long ago.


    Although Jin City was not as cold as Zhi Xia��s side, the winter wind was still piercingpared to summer.


    Especially here with more rain. In previous years at this time, as soon as it rained, the old injuries left by the old master and Pei Lao in their youth would rpse. Adding to their already old age, that kind of pain could only be described by those who had personally experienced it.


    The olddy was uninjured, but because of her advanced age she was also afraid of the cold in winter. As soon as it turned cold she had to wrap herself up tightly, and when the cold came she felt as if her bones would freeze and shatter.


    But this year was different from previous years.


    It was drizzling these days, raining quite heavily from time to time, already for four or five days. The air was also very humid, and the cab doors in the house had unexpectedly grown mold spots if one wasn''t careful.


    These past two days, the old master was still in great spirits. He sat in the living room listening to the news on the radio, and from time to time he would hum a few bars of a tune.


    When the olddy came out from the room, Zhou''s wife quickly took the medicine the elders had been taking recently and gave it to them.


    The three elders had suspected where these pills came from, but after thinking it over, they decided not to ask.


    At times like these, in such a remote ce, it was hard to guarantee the child wouldn''t have some fortune, plus with the fierce fighting these past two years, the more remote corners were more likely to hide masters.


    And the fewer people who knew about things like this, the better. If too many people knew, it would be more likely to attract disaster instead.


    Anyway, Pei Jing was watching over that side, so there shouldn''t be any major incidents. As long as the children''s filial piety was epted sincerely, it was fine.


    That jade bottle alone which held the medicine was no ordinary thing. The old master and olddy both had discerning eyes and wouldn''t fail to recognize it.


    Of course, in this era it was certainly worthless.


    It was also the immortal doctor sister who said a jade bottle could better preserve the medicine, otherwise Zhi Xia would have definitely reced it.


    At the An family, An Zhiren and An Zhixian were also discussing sending something to Zhi Xia. They weren''t stingy people either, and naturally wanted to reciprocate upon receiving a gift.


    Moreover, as time went on, they also developed some warmth towards this younger sister.


    When Zhi Xia first returned, she shed with Gao Meiyun, and since they didn''t understand her personality, along with being tricked by Gao Meiyun a few times as children, they almost had a psychological shadow just from the words ��younger sister��.


    So the two had maintained a cold attitude, giving money when needed, but absolutely not giving effort, and didn''t want too much involvement either.


    Up until now, the impression Zhi Xia left them wasn''t bad. Adding to people''s natural sympathy for the weak, Zhi Xia had suffered so much that they also wanted to take good care of this younger sister.


    Especially An Zhixian. He had already read quite a bit of that medical book recently, and as someone studying medicine, he naturally understood how precious this book was and how much it could help improve his medical skills.


    Liu Ling happened to walk by holding her child and overheard their discussion. She said, ��Let me know when you guys want to mail stuff. I knitted a sweater for your eldest brother that I can send along to save on postage.��


    An Zhiren nodded in agreement, while still pondering what Zhi Xia''s side might need.


    An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan sat silently on the side, seemingly unable to join the children''s discussion.


    After the couple returned to their room, An Jingzhi said, "I heard the weather up north is very cold. We''ve always felt guilty towards our child. No matter whether she epts our good intentions or not, we can''t neglect her just because she doesn''t ept them. Prepare some things for the child as well. Pei Lao said Zhi Xia is already pregnant, and I don''t know if she''lle back for New Year''s. She doesn''t have a mother-inw up there, so help pick out some fine cotton cloth and prepare everything needed."


    Ever since Zhi Xia left, Zhou Nan''s spirit had never been the same after she came out of the hospital, and she looked much older with several more wrinkles at the corners of her eyes.


    She wiped her eyes with heartache. "I''ve been thinking about this for a long time now. Everything is prepared, I was just afraid to act...afraid she wouldn''t be willing to ept."


    "Nheless, go ahead and prepare it first," An Jingzhi sighed.


    With Zhao Xin''s health recovered, preparations for his wedding with Pei Meng were also underway.


    The distance was not short, and Zhao''s parents both worked, so it was unrealistic for them to ask for days off just because their son was getting married.


    Therefore, they could only first have a lively wedding ceremony in the army camp to get their marriage certificate, and then have the formal ceremony back in Jin City.


    They would obviously just wear military uniforms for an army wedding, saving on clothes for starters.


    A few days in advance, Zhi Xia had already cut out the double happiness character, and decorated both Zhao Xin and Pei Meng''s homes very festively.


    On the wedding day, Zhi Xia personally tied two braids for Pei Meng that hung over her chest, and added red colored ribbons as decoration. She simply applied some makeup for her, dabbed on some fragrant oil, and dressed her up beautifully.


    Pei Jing''s brothers took the initiative toe over and y the bride''s family blocking the way. Zhao Xin was even more prepared, bringing arge group to "fetch the bride". They were all grown men, each more spirited than thest, and made a huge mor when they started ying around.


    One side blocked while the other fetched, and eventually the two sides made such a ruckus that Zhi Xia hid far away early on after finishing her reception of the groom.


    Zhao Xin''s side scattered candies without restraint. Taking advantage when the others were picking up candy, he seized the chance to rush in, pick up the bride, and run off.


    By the time the blockers realized what happened, the groom had already run quite far carrying the bride. A mob chased out after them, candies scattering all along the way. Adults and children scrambled to grab them, making it a lively and delightful asion.


    Yang Dawei reacted slower than others after bing dumb. Not grabbing a single candy, he instead got his hand stepped on by someone, and stood there crying with asional coughs from catching a chill.


    His sister one year younger quickly gave him her candy, and took out a handkerchief to wipe his tears, urging him not to cry.

 Chapter 126: See Hope

    <h4>Chapter 126</h4>


    He was also a pitiful child. Zhi Xia went into the room and took out half a bag of candies hidden in the cab, giving each of them a big handful and putting it in their pockets. She then told them to be careful when going to watch the festivities and not get trampled on again.


    In a short period of time, many things had happened.


    Yang Dawei was dumbfounded. Shen Hongxing threw tantrums for several days. Yang Jun still insisted on getting a divorce. Fortunately, she still had some heartache for the children and didn''t make too big of a fuss. In addition, Shen Hongmei advised her to leave for a period of time first and then try to mend things after Yang Jun cooled down. They still had several children in between them, so they couldn''t just sever tiespletely. She could only leave the army first.


    Yang Jun went to the superiors to retrieve his demobilization application. After Yang Dawei almost drowned, his health had deteriorated. Yang Jun also wanted to take him to a big hospital to examine his head and see if medicine could help. Medical treatment and medicine cost money.


    The army had good benefits and there were subsidies for going on missions. These were benefits that would be absolutely unavable after retirement.


    But at the same time, Yang Cui Er, who was a year younger than Yang Dawei, could only quit school and take care of her older brother and younger twin brothers at home. There was no alternative.


    After Shen Hongxing left, the Yang children grew up a lot in an instant. Although the children were young, they knew more than a little.


    No matter how noisy and chaotic it had been before, with the parents there, they could rely on them. But as soon as the parents divorced, their mindset changed greatly, and their temperaments became much calmer.


    After thanking Zhi Xia, Yang Cui Er took Yang Dawei away to continue watching the festivities.


    Zhi Xia also closed the door to her room and headed to Zhao Xin��s home.


    Upon entering the courtyard, she could hear the noisy soundsing from the room. Pei Jing was shouting at one side for them not to go overboard. Everyone knew he was protecting his niece. A few young men drove him out.


    Seeing Zhi Xiae over, Pei Jing also came up to remind her, "It''s very noisy inside. This bunch of ill-mannered boys, you''d better not go in."


    Zhi Xia was a little worried. "Is it okay for them to be like this?"


    "It''s fine. They''re just ying games, making Zhao Xin do push-ups. There''s also an apple-eating gameter... " Marriage was about having fun, and also about bringing the bride and groom closer through small games.


    But thinking of how Zhao Xin had been toyed with to the point of exhaustion, Pei Jing still couldn''t help mourning for him for a second.


    At dinner time, they went to the canteen to eat. It was a rare lively asion, and the canteen had already been notified. Today''s dishes were also very decent.


    Pei Jing was called to Zhao Xin''s side to drink with them. Zhi Xia didn''t go over when beckoned, because she saw the cultural troupe people there, including Shen Hongmei.


    Zhi Xia said she was going back to rest after eating. Pei Jing thought she must be tired after being busy for so long, so he didn''t think much of it and told her to be careful.


    As she passed by, Zhi Xia took out a bag of candy from her clothes and gave each of the cultural troupe girls arge handful. "This is today''s wedding candy. Share in the wedding bliss."


    It was reasonable for her to hand out candy since the cultural troupe had also arranged performances for the night.


    Everyone thanked Zhi Xia profusely and she smiled and said don''t mention it.


    She still had a piece of candy in her palm that she handed to Shen Hongmei. "Just now when receiving the bride, Dawei also picked up a lot of candy. He even said he wanted to take it home and hide it to keep for his auntie. I saw the child has been coughing badlytely. And when he was picking up candy just now, someone stepped on his hand and made him cry quite hard. If you have time, you should go take a look at him more."


    Zhi Xia looked at Shen Hongmei sincerely and gave her a faint smile.


    Shen Hongmei took the candy. Zhi Xia left.


    Everyone knew about Shen Hongmei''s past pursuit of Pei Jing. Those around her were praising Zhi Xia.


    Some also urged Shen Hongmei to hurry up and finish eating, then go see Yang Dawei. The matter with Shen Hongxing had spread through almost the entire army. They also knew the child was truly pitiful now. With Yang Jun being a grown man busy with things, only 11-year-old Yang Cui Er was at home taking care of the children. As an auntie, shouldn''t Shen Hongmei be paying more attention?


    Moreover, Shen Hongmei was able to stay in the cultural troupergely thanks to Yang Jun''s efforts.


    In recent times, Shen Hongmei hadn''t dared to visit them. It wasn''t that she didn''t care, but she was afraid the system would harm people again if she did.


    Now being pushed like this, she could no longer use the excuse of not having time.


    Shen Hongmei was still mumbling, wanting to use some excuse to get out of going to see Yang Dawei. She had also lost her appetite for the meal. The candy in her hand was being twisted around by her fingers, revealing the object inside that was clearly not candy.


    Shen Hongmei knew the system could probe her thoughts, so she dared not think about what this thing was at all. She hurriedly shifted her thoughts elsewhere, but her hand tightly grasped the object in her palm.


    Almost in that instant, she felt the kind of close connection she had with the system seemed to disappear.


    "System... system..."


    Shen Hongmei tried to contact the system in her mind, but didn''t get any response at all.


    She was stunned for a moment, then immense joy surged up.


    She instinctively wanted to take a closer look at the thing in her hand, but was afraid the system would regain control if she let go. So she could only endure.


    Standing up, she told her teammates she was going to visit her brother-inw''s family first. She left in a hurry without waiting for a response.


    This behavior puzzled those around her.


    Clearly, when they had urged her earlier, she was still unwilling to go. They were thinking this person really had no conscience. Unexpectedly, the next second she ran off��wasn''t this behavior too bizarre?


    Zhi Xia had already returned home. Looking back, Shen Hongmei didn''t chase after her.


    She couldn''t help but suspect she had guessed wrong. Was Shen Hongmei actually in cahoots with that harmful entity and had no desire to break control at all?


    Zhi Xia didn''t hurry into the room. Instead, she waited in the yard for a while. Fortunately, it wasn''t long before Shen Hongmei came.


    She ran over, and although she was panting heavily, the expression on her face was clearly very happy.


    Fortunately, she was still cautious. As she was about to hurry in, she looked left and right. Seeing no one had noticed, she quickly headed in Zhi Xia''s direction.


    Zhi Xia had already opened the door. She said, "Come in to talk."


    Having witnessed Zhi Xia''s ability to help her break free of the system, Shen Hongmei trusted her a lot more this time.


    After the two entered the room, Zhi Xia closed the door and got right to business. "I can help you break free of what''s controlling you, but I need your full cooperation. Let me ask you again��do you really want to break free of it?"


    Because the trading device had a setting that it could not force others. Shen Hongmei had to cooperate wholeheartedly.


    "Yes, as long as you can help me break free of its control, I''ll do whatever you say." Since obtaining the system, Shen Hongmei had harmed half a vige. This included her own younger brother''s life, as well as her nephew bing an idiot and the tragic oue of her older sister and brother-inw''s divorce.


    Although she had also gained some benefits herself,pared to the price paid, it was truly negligible.


    Unless one''s conscience hadpletely eroded away, it would be difficult for anyone to ept this fact.


    Right now, Shen Hongmei was unable to think about anything else. Zhi Xia had shown her hope. Her only thought at this moment was to seize the opportunity while things could still be salvaged, break free of the system, and be a normal person again who would no longer bring misfortune to others.

 Chapter 127: It鈥檚 Over

    <h4>Chapter 127</h4>


    Getting the answer she wanted, Xiao Xia felt relieved.


    She turned around and poured a ss of water, adding medicinal powder in front of Shen Hongmei, and handed it to her, "Drink this water and you will lose consciousness briefly. When you wake up, you will be a normal person again."


    Shen Hongmei was a little hesitant, "Can I not drink it?"


    She was afraid that if she really drank it, Xiao Xia might want to do something to her while she was defenseless.


    When facing unfamiliar people, one instinctively feels wary. She hadn''t met Xiao Xia more than a few times.


    In fact, if it weren''t for the thing in her hand that could really cut off the system''s control over her, she wouldn''t even believe that the pregnant woman in front of her, who looked like a little girl, would have such extraordinary abilities.


    Xiao Xia shook her head, "You should understand that what''s in you is not something good, so the treatment will also be a bit special."


    Shen Hongmei thought about it and still took the ss from her and drank it down decisively.


    It took about a minute for the effects to kick in.


    Having just helped Shen Hongmei sit in a chair, shepletely lost consciousness.


    Xiao Xia hurriedly followed the pre-arranged n, put Shen Hongmei into the space, then stored her in the trader. A living person disappeared before her eyes.


    She was also very nervous, but could only wait patiently.


    Apart from having the miraculous trader, she didn''t have any special abilities either, so the one who could help was not her, but the trader.


    To help Shen Hongmei, she had emptied all her star coins to open up a special channel, and it was one-time only.


    Xiao Xia''s eyes kept ncing at her watch. It took more than half an hour before the trader issued a warning that the operation wasplete.


    Xiao Xia quickly took Shen Hongmei out. Without any hesitation, she immediately exited the space.


    The effects of the sedative hadn''t worn off yet, so she was still unconscious, but the person was no different from when she entered the space, and there were no injuries, just slightly flushed cheeks.


    Xiao Xia didn''t have time to check the trader''s status. She hurriedly opened the door and struggled to support Shen Hongmei next door.


    If someone found Shen Hongmei unconscious in her home, she couldn''t exin it clearly even with ten mouths. And since Shen Hongmei could bind such an evil thing, she couldn''t take no responsibility either. Xiao Xia was really afraid she would be wrongly used.


    Supporting Shen Hongmei to the edge of the kitchen, she happened to see Yang Dawei grinning stupidly ying in the mud in the yard. Xiao Xia hurriedly called him, "Dawei, your auntie is a little ufortable, hurry up and help support her."


    "Auntie..." Yang Dawei stupidly ran over, both hands still covered in mud. Xiao Xia didn''t have time to stop him before seeing him grab Shen Hongmei.


    The 13-year-old Yang Dawei was already taller than Xiao Xia. If not for his mental handicap, in another two or three years he could have be the pir of the family. It was really a pity now.


    Xiao Xia frowned, but couldn''t nitpick on this little detail. She hurriedly worked with him to help Shen Hongmei into the room.


    Supporting Shen Hongmei to sit in a chair, Xiao Xia was already panting heavily, "Dawei, where are your siblings? Why didn''t you go to the canteen for dinner?"


    With Yang Jun away these days, it was Yang Cui Er cooking at their home. But today was Zhao Xin and Pei Meng''s wedding, so Xiao Xia had specifically told Yang Cui Er to take Yang Dawei to eat at the canteen today.


    Yang Dawei looked at the unconscious Shen Hongmei, seeming to be wondering what had happened to her.


    Xiao Xia spoke to him but he didn''t make a sound, just gurgling noises in his throat, coughing from time to time.


    The effects of the sedative wouldst about an hour or so, at most another half hour before Shen Hongmei would wake up.


    Xiao Xia walked out of the Yang''s house, and happened to see peopleing back from dinner outside.


    She hurried back home, knowing that Pei Jing would probably be back soon too. She didn''t rush to lock the door this time, but used her consciousness to check inside the space.


    The interface on the trader had changed. Since Shen Hongmei''s system was not orthodox, it had been automatically recycled by the trader.


    As a reward, Xiao Xia could have one chance to connect to a higher ne and two lower nes.


    This was an unexpected pleasant surprise. It also made Xiao Xia guess that Shen Hongmei''s system was probably also beneficial to the creator of the trader, otherwise it wouldn''t have given such a big reward.


    The higher ne reward was the human interster ne, the wandering Egg, the ancient beastman ne''s Tiger Girl, and the era ne''s Green Green.


    When Shen Hongmei woke up, she opened her eyes to find herself in her brother-inw''s house. She was sitting on a chair in the living room, leaning on the table with her sleeves covered in mud.


    At the door, Yang Dawei was squatting there doing something unknown.


    Recalling what had happened before she fainted, she quickly tried to contact the system in her body, but this time, there was nothing in her palm. She still couldn''t sense the system''s existence, as if everything before was just her illusion.


    Shen Hongmei suddenlyughed,ughing more and more until she couldn''t help crying. Shey on the table crying loudly, as if venting.


    It was over, finally all over.


    She no longer had to be controlled like a puppet, and no longer had to think of ways to deal with the system while avoiding all those who were kind to her.


    Her future life finally belongedpletely to herself.


    Pei Jing drank some wine and didn''t get back until the afternoon.


    Xiao Xia had already prepared hangover soup for him to drink before going to bed.


    He slept until dark after that.


    After eating dinner and washing away the remaining alcohol with hot water, he went back to the room to lie down.


    A man and a woman''s body temperatures were different. Xiao Xia had just gotten into bed when she felt like there was a stove next to her, unconsciously wanting to get closer.


    It had been a month since Pei Meng came that they hadn''t slept together.


    They say that drunkenness confuses the mind, let alone Pei Jing wasn''t even drunk at all, just a little tipsy. His heart did have different thoughts.


    His soft and sweet wife snuggled up to him, their one and only experience still being that night months ago. The charming fragrance teased his nose, and Pei Jing finally made a move.


    His warm big hand covered her slightly bulging belly.


    Xiao Xia had gained some weight recently, but was still not fat, her waist just the width of his palm.


    Testing the waters, he kissed her forehead, and seeing she didn''t resist, Pei Jing flipped over to cover her, but was careful not to put his weight on her, having to brace it all on himself.


    "Xiao Xia, is it okay?"


    Xiao Xia''s face was red, surrounded by his scent everywhere, and the light touch on her body made her not dare to move randomly.


    She bit her lip lightly, hearing his question, shyly nodded.

 Chapter 128: Vested Interests, Not Innocent

    <h4>Chapter 128</h4>


    The ardent kisses started from the forehead, passed the tip of the nose, andnded on the lips.


    The just-cleaned mouth still retained the refreshing scent of the toothpaste, which smelled and tasted good.


    With the sash untied, both of them felt somewhat melted.


    Although there was one experience before,bining again still brought slight difort.


    Fortunately Yang Dawei was extremely patient, always guiding Shen Hongmei and considering her feelings.


    Just overly considerate, it also made Shen Hongmei feel ashamed and indignant.


    "Does it hurt?"


    "Is it too heavy like this?"


    "How about this, is there any difort?"


    Shen Hongmei was like a leaf boat swaying unsteadily on the water. She didn''t know whether it was ufortable orfortable. Frowning, she curled herself into his arms, but just wanted him to shut up.


    The night was as dark as ink. Outside the window, stars filled the sky. Even the big red double happiness character on the window was shy.


    His tenderness at this time was totally inconsistent with his cold and condensed appearance, making people addicted yet tortured at the same time.


    ...


    Yang Dawei had been coughing for a long time but it still didn''t get better. Shen Hongmei asked Divine Doctor Sister to make some medicinal pills for him. Every morning when she saw Yang Dawei, she would let him take one pill. After taking medicine for several days, his cough was gone.


    However, the dementia caused by his mental retardation was not so easy to treat. Divine Doctor Sister could only prescribe medicine to alleviate it based on Shen Hongmei��s ount of the situation. But the hope of aplete cure was slim.


    After all, Divine Doctor Sister hadn''t seen the patient in person either. As a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, without knowing the detailed physical condition, she didn''t dare to prescribe heavy medicine rashly.


    Deep down, Shen Hongmei sympathized with the two children. Yang Dawei became silly, and Yang Cui Er could only drop out of school to take care of the family. But for the Yang family now, this was also the only solution.


    Unless letting Shen Hongxinge back, or Yang Jun found another woman. But for the children, both had pros and cons, and the cons might even outweigh the benefits.


    Apparently, Yang Jun also had his own judgement, otherwise he wouldn''t have rejected proposals from several sisters-inw who were willing to marry him.


    Of course, although he was an eligible bachelor, the burden of several children also deterred interest from outstanding women.


    One��s smooth and sweet life could be seen from the face. This was true for Shen Hongmei. Especially since the winter began, there were fewer people going out. asionally some sisters from the neighborhood came over for a chat and asked her for knitting techniques.


    Shen Hongmei thought there probably wouldn''t be any more interactions between her and Pei Jing. But she didn''t expect Pei Jing toe over so soon.


    At that time, the noon sunshine was just right. Shen Hongmei and Pei Meng were sitting in the yard bundled up warmly. They even brought out the coal stove from the kitchen to get some heat.


    First Shen Hongmei went to Yang Jun��s house, then came over to greet Pei Jing and Pei Meng.


    In recent days, Pei Meng also heard about Shen Hongmei��s crush on her young uncle. So she was very wary of Shen Hongmei��s arrival, while Pei Jing was much more nonchnt inparison.


    With a slight raise of her eyes, the moment her eyes met Shen Hongmei��s, Pei Jing knew she didn''te simply to say hello.


    "Mengmeng, it''s almost time for them toe back, you should also go back and start cooking." Pei Jing said.


    Of course Pei Meng could tell that Pei Jing wanted to be alone with Shen Hongmei. But she was worried about leaving Pei Jing alone with Shen Hongmei, so she hesitated for a moment.


    Shen Hongmei looked at her with a gentle smile and said, "I just want to have a talk with your auntie. Isn''t there a saying that distant rtives can''tpare to close neighbors? My brother-inw is often not at home. At home it''s just Dawei and Cuier and several kids. As the auntie, I also often can''t take good care of them. Your auntie lives nearby, so I just want to ask about the children''s situation."


    "Okay then, I''ll go back first." Pei Meng looked around. The sunshine today was nice and many people were chatting outside, so she wasn''t worried about leaving Shen Hongmei alone with Pei Jing. After all, Shen Hongmei also had some reputation, she wouldn''t gamble it away.


    After Pei Meng left, Pei Jing asked her directly, "What''s the matter?"


    Shen Hongmei dropped her smile and lowered her eyes dejectedly. She looked up and questioned Pei Jing, "Did you lie to me?"


    "What do you mean? What did I lie to you about? I''ve been trying to help you all along, and I got your consent beforehand, didn''t I? Shen Hongmei, you were the one asking me for help in the beginning. I never forced you, did I?" Pei Jing frowned.


    "But after that incident, all my talents are gone. Now I can barely recognize words, my singing sounds bad, I can''t dance gracefully anymore. In the past, I didn''t even need to try for these things. I could sing with just an open mouth, and dance with a simple gesture. But now I can''t do any of them. Haven''t you noticed I became uglier than before? My temperament is not as good either." Shen Hongmei thought of the troupe leader''s constant criticism of hertely, and the mockery from other troupe members that she had hit the age limit of her talents. This was the first time she heard talents could expire too.


    Pei Jing contemted, "That just means those things you lost never belonged to you in the first ce, but were endowed by that being. The price was plundering others'' fortune. With your own experience, you should understand this even better than me."


    "But it already gave those to me, so weren''t they mine then? How could it take them back?" Shen Hongmei understood, perhaps she just couldn''t bear the pain of loss.


    She had lost a brother! Her sister and brother-inw also divorced. Her parents had been in poor health for years. She was now the pir of the family. If she lost all these too, what else could she rely on to stay in the troupe and support her family?


    No, this was not what she wanted. She just wanted to get rid of the System''s control.


    "Then if you put it this way, are you willing to let your sister be unlucky and have a big change of temperament for life, in order to maintain your talents? And your sister''s children, the vigers in your vige, they were all affected by you. You lost the halo that never belonged to you in the first ce, but at least you still have health, umted connections and wealth over the years, as well as the reputation you already earned. As long as you operate well, it should be enough to live carefreely for the rest of your life, right?" Pei Jing had thought it over before. Being bound to such an evil thing, she might have impure thoughts to begin with.


    But at heart, without confirmation, she was still unwilling to assume malice about others. She treated Shen Hongmei as a victim as well, thinking Shen Hongmei was coerced.


    But it seemed her previous thoughts were right.


    Shen Hongmei had been maliciously controlled by the System for so many years since childhood to adulthood. Her own thinking had also been assimted in part.


    Perhaps, apart from retaining some conscience, the bigger reason she couldn''t ept the continued control was that she couldn''t bear to see the family tragedies and the pain of her loved ones being hurt.


    When those threats were removed, she was essentially still a selfish person.


    In this world, eight or nine out of ten people would be selfish. Pei Jing always believed that as long as they didn''t hurt others, they could be called good people.


    But Shen Hongmei had already hurt many. No matter whether it was voluntary or not, the consequences were irreversible.


    She was not pitiful. The ones to pity were those who got hurt due to her selfishness.


    Pei Jing said the vige where Shen Hongmei lived was ridiculed by others as an unlucky vige. It was said that even dogs passing by would be unlucky for three days. Outsiders all detoured around their vige.


    Over the years, no girls from outside were willing to marry into that vige at all. Young men from other viges were also unwilling to marry their girls.


    "Shen Hongmei, no matter how you think, you must ept one fact. Even if those affected by you slowly regain their original fortune over time, the harm that has been done cannot be undone, just like your sister''s marriage, Yang Dawei''s IQ, the disabilities and illnesses of vigers due to their fortune being sucked away, and even lives that were lost. All those affected by you, you owe them for your whole life. Don''t use the excuse that you were also controlled, because even if you were controlled, you were the beneficiary. Those who receive benefits cannot be innocent."

 Chapter 129: Doubt

    <h4>Chapter 129</h4>


    ��Yes, I admit that I owe them, and I did benefit as well. But Anzhi Xia, can you really say that you didn''t benefit at all?�� Shen Hongmei said this not because she actually knew whether Anzhi Xia had benefited, but because it was just her own guess at what was in Anzhi Xia''s heart. ��Since you were able to help me get rid of that thing called the System, you must know just how incredible its existence was. Can you say for sure that you really eliminated it? Who knows if you didn''t just take it from me and use it for yourself?��


    When she was little, her wish was simply to be able to eat candy and have her fill of meals. After being bound to the System, her wish was fulfilled, but her family suffered deeply because of it. That was why she felt such panic.


    But over the course of it all, her desires grew from merely being well-fed to bing much grander.


    She wanted to leave that vige, to have a good job and a stable life, to have talent and aplishment and the envious gazes of others...


    She had gotten all that, but looking back she realized that her road to sess had been built by trampling on the shoulders of her loved ones. Because of her alone, many people had sacrificed their health, even their lives.


    As someone who still had some moral principles, she felt guilty.


    But all people have their weaknesses, and it is easy to go from simple to extravagant but hard to go from extravagant to simple.


    Shen Hongmei, who had lost the System, was clearly going through the difficult transition from extravagance to austerity.


    She could no longer smoothly sail through life with the System''s help, and she could no longer exchange affection points for the resources the System had brought her. This greatly inconvenienced her life, and without the halo around her, she also faced obstacles at every turn in her work.


    Anzhi Xia knew full well what benefits she had gotten, but she wasn''t foolish enough to tell Shen Hongmei about them.


    ��I don''t know if it defied the heavens or not, but I won''t keep something so harmful like you did, and then restrict my own life with it, deeply harming my own loved ones and friends. Perhaps you won''t believe me, but can you deny that in all this time you haven''t seen a single person around me suffer any effects?��


    Shen Hongmei fled in defeat under Anzhi Xia''s scornful gaze, even feeling thating here had been nothing but humiliating herself.


    She could not deny one fact: she did not have Anzhi Xia''s abilities, nor could she control the System.


    All of her sess had been bought with the pain and lives of others.


    Watching Shen Hongmei''s retreating figure, Anzhi Xia let out a helpless sigh.


    Perhaps she couldn''t be called a good person either, because she knew that if she revealed what she possessed it could bring tremendous good to the world, yet she still refused to expose herself.


    But she was willing to offer what little help she could to others, like the deeply harmed Yang Dawei. Although he was still muddleheaded, he had clearly improved a lot with her help over this period of time, and his health had returned to normal. It was just that his mind was still not very clever.


    As for the other people harmed by the System and Shen Hongmei, she currently didn''t have the ability to contact them, so she also couldn''t do anything for them.


    If she were to meet them one day, she would also be willing to help those victims to the best of her ability.


    After all, Shen Hongmei was right that she had benefited from it.


    Anzhi Xia also had her own headaches to deal with, like Fourth Brother''s reply letter.


    Second Elder Brother and Third Elder Brother''s letters said that Fourth Brother had an impatient temper. The family still hadn''t dared to tell him about her getting married, and told her to break the news gently when the time came, and to console Fourth Brother as much as possible to prevent him from doing anything rash in the heat of the moment that they couldn''t control.


    So after careful consideration, she decided to first keep her marriage a secret and send the letter back to An Family, and have them forward it on to Fourth Brother.


    That way, when Fourth Brother''s letter came, it would also have to pass through An Family''s hands, so maybe that could keep it hidden for a bit longer. She also felt quite apologetic to Fourth Brother about this approach.


    Anzhi Xia thought that even when she did tell him, she would at least wait until he finished new recruit training and came back before telling him in person, to avoid some uncontroble factors.


    ...


    The beauty of springtime flowers is soon gone, but the peach blossoms in the mountain temple have juste into bloom.


    Although there was no mountain temple here, there were still plenty of peach blossoms.


    Several wild peach trees grew along the riverbank, and Anzhi Xia had thought about being able to pick peaches to eat when the time came. But Pei Jing told her those were wild peach trees, so the peaches were small and fuzzy. They would be picked clean by children before they were even ripe.


    She calcted her expected due date��she had gotten pregnant atst year''s Mid-Autumn Festival, so her due date should be sometime in early May.


    But her belly was very big, and there was no hospital to get checked at in the small town.


    Sister-inw Fengxia urged her not to eat too much, so as not to make the birth difficult. Anzhi Xia knew her own appetite really wasn''t that big, and in herter trimester she was eating the pregnancy nutrition meals tailored for her by Divine Doctor Sister.


    As for Pei Jing''s side, she just gave some vague response about having eaten already or that she''d eatter when the time came. Anyway he was often not there, and coupled with her visiblyrge belly, he wouldn''t insist that she eat more.


    Thinking back to the pregnancy dream she''d had, plus Grandma''s and Zhou Nuan''s experiences having twins, she also had a premonition.


    At night in April, the weather had already be hot.


    The husband and wifey in bed, Anzhi Xia on her back with her bulging belly exposed while Pei Jing looked at it with a smile, intently watching as small bulges would push up here and there.


    Whenever that happened, Anzhi Xia felt an itchiness in her belly that she desperately wanted to scratch but couldn''t reach. Both itchy and helpless.


    After lying on her back for a while she became ufortable. She used one hand to prop up her belly, wanting to roll onto her side. Pei Jing hurriedly helped her.


    The two of them hadn''t been intimate as husband and wife for a long time now. For Pei Jing who had tasted but not yet had his fill, this clearly required a great deal of self-control.


    But Anzhi Xia''s pregnancy was arduous, especially recently with her inability to fall asleep at night and increasingly frequent trips to the bathroom. Seeing her like this pained him greatly, and he wished he could take on her suffering himself, yet he was helpless to do so. He could only be more attentive, and make her asfortable as possible in other regards.


    Perhaps it was the abrupt shift onto her side, but the child(ren) in her belly also seemed ufortable with the change. It felt like something scraped around inside her belly, an itchiness that made her want to smack her stomach to relieve it.


    ��Do you have time recently?�� Anzhi Xia asked him. ��I want to go to the hospital in the city to get checked out. I keep feeling like there''s more than one in here.��


    Not having done any prenatal exams since bing pregnant was the norm for most people. Generally there were no issues, so no one would go to the trouble of running to a hospital.


    And if it really was twins like she guessed, her due date would probably need to be moved up earlier, so they had to prepare well in advance.

 Chapter 130: The Intention

    <h4>Chapter 130</h4>


    "Of course there is. We''ll go tomorrow," Pei Jing stared at Zhi Xia''s belly. His originally happy expression turned a little worried, "Why didn''t you mention this earlier?"


    He felt a little guilty. The sisters-inw around him had said more than once that Zhi Xia''s belly was unusuallyrge and there must be a chubby baby inside. He also knew that Zhi Xia''s grandmother and mother both had a history of giving birth to twins, but he had never thought about it before.


    "I just felt it recently too. After all, I haven''t had it checked out yet, so it''s all uncertain," she sighed again at the poor conditions here sinceing to this side.


    If she was in Jincheng, she would have gone to the hospital already. But here it was not easy to even go into town. It took 1-2 hours just to transfer buses to the city hospital.


    Of course, time was not an issue for them, but she was pregnant and felt tired after just a few steps, let alone spending a whole day traveling around outside.


    "It''s my fault for never thinking about this. Go to sleep. We''ll get up early tomorrow and go. If it really is twins..." Pei Jing hesitated and said to Zhi Xia, "If it''s really twins, let''s have someone from homee help you recuperate?"


    His mother had passed away, so it would be most appropriate for his grandmother toe. But she was getting old and might not be able to handle it.


    If he really asked, there was a high chance that Zhou Nan woulde over. Pei Jing was afraid Zhi Xia would be angry.


    Indeed, Zhi Xia had never thought about having Zhou Nane serve her during confinement. "Let''s talk about itter. It''s still uncertain. Anyway, Meng Meng is here too. You took time off to be here, right? With you two, it should be enough. I can''t move during confinement, but I''ll recover after resting for a few days."


    Pei Jing put his arm around her shoulders tofort her, understanding this was rejection.


    It wasn''t that she was really unwilling, she just still had some resentment and didn''t want to go begging.


    The words from back then were still fresh in her mind. They didn''t care about her, so she wouldn''t care about them either.


    But now she had to ask Zhou Nan toe serve her during confinement, which felt like pping her own face.


    Scooting forward, she pressed her whole body against his chest before closing her eyes to rest.


    Pei Jing secretly sighed, tucking the nket around her.


    The woman in his arms was not just his wife, but a girl who needed care and affection.


    He could feel that beneath her gentle exterior, she was stubborn inside andcked a sense of security.


    But it was good that she relied on him.


    Kissing her forehead, Pei Jing adjusted his position to let her sleep morefortably.


    When Zhi Xia woke up, the spot beside her was no longer warm.


    She sat up to see Pei Jing walking in the door. "You''re awake, hurry up and get up. I made some food. Let''s eat then go."


    Zhi Xia nodded. "Okay. Should we let Meng Meng know we''re going when we leave? With no one home all day, she mighte by and wonder where we went."


    "I mentioned it to Zhao Xin when I asked for leave earlier," said Pei Jing. "There''s a military vehicle going into the city today that we can hitch a ride on."


    Zhi Xia wore a loose shirt on top and maternity pants below. Luckily she was tall so it didn''t look bad dressed like this.


    After locking the door, the two set off.


    The bumpy road made her regret going out a little, but not going would leave her worried.


    By the time they finally arrived in the city, it was already noon.


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia got off the vehicle and headed straight for the hospital.


    Zhi Xia thought the city hospital would have better facilities, but it was still very simple with white walls painted with big slogans that were peeling.


    They were received by an old doctor who still diagnosed by taking the pulse. As Zhi Xia expected, there were indeed twins in her belly.


    Along with joy was faint worry.


    Twins tend to be born prematurely. Her due date was early May, but April was already more than halfway over. If she went into prematurebor again, she only had a few days left.


    Moreover, the risk for the mother was higher with twins. The old doctor rmended theye to the hospital to give birth.


    He also exined some precautions that Pei Jing took careful note of before helping Zhi Xia leave.


    A man rushed in just as they were exiting, nearly colliding with them if Pei Jing hadn''t reacted quickly and blocked him in time.


    "There''s a pregnant woman here. Please be careful," Pei Jing exined, voice tinged with coldness from already being worried.


    "Sorry, sorry, I was in a hurry," the blocked man quickly apologized. But when he looked up, he was surprised to see it was two familiar faces. "Comrade Pei, Sister Zhi Xia, it''s you! What brings you here?"


    Seeing Zhi Xia''s bulging belly, he immediately understood.


    The man was Wu Lei, the older brother they had met on the train, who was the director of the food factory. Zhi Xia had deliberately befriended him.


    She had thought more friends meant more options. After all, she was a reborn person and couldn''t just do nothing aftering here.


    But she found the environment here didn''t allow her to aplish much. Pregnant as she was, she couldn''t get around on foot every day, so she had to temporarily give up her previous ideas.


    "Brother Wu, long time no see. You were in such a hurry, what for..." Zhi Xia also recognized him and was thankful Pei Jing had reacted in time earlier, otherwise they would have collided.


    With herrge belly, she couldn''t afford a bump.


    "My kid has diarrhea. I came to ask the doctor for some medicine. I was anxious..." Wu Lei also broke out in a cold sweat from the scare. "Sister, I''m really sorry about that."


    "It''s fine." The other party didn''t do it on purpose, so Zhi Xia didn''t hold it against him. "Your child''s healthes first. Hurry on in."


    Right after they exited, Wu Lei''s voice rang out again behind them. "Comrade Pei, sister, could you wait for me at the entrance? I have some matters I''d like to discuss with you."


    Even if they didn''t run into each other today, Wu Lei had been wanting to go find them. He didn''t expect such a coincidence.


    "Alright, we''ll wait for you at the entrance." Pei Jing replied.


    Once outside, Pei Jing said to Zhi Xia, "Based on what the doctor said, you have at most half a month before birth, but we don''t know the exact time. If contractions start and we can''t make it to the hospital in time, it''d be worrying. So I think you should just stay in the city to avoid traveling back and forth."


    Zhi Xia didn''t have any issues with this. "Then where do we stay?"


    "Let''s see if Wu Lei can help us find a temporary ce. If not, we can only stay at the hotel."


    Worried they might not make it back at night, he had gotten a referral letter from his superiors beforeing. But staying long-term at a hotel wasn''t viable. If she really had to wait half a month for birth, he couldn''t be away from base for half a month either. So best would be finding a temporary home where Meng Meng coulde help care for her.


    If they could only stay at a hotel, leaving two women alone in the city would make him uneasy too. He''d have to use up all his annual leave for the year now.

 Chapter 131: Meet Wu Lei Again

    <h4>Chapter 131</h4>


    Pei Jing went to the nurse to borrow a stool for Zhi Xia to sit on, and the two of them waited outside for a while before seeing Wu Lei rushing out.


    He was holding the medicine the doctor had prepared, and when he saw Zhi Xia sitting there with her big belly sticking out, leaning against Pei Jing, he couldn''t bear to ask them to wait a little longer.


    Pei Jing saw his embarrassed expression and said, "Comrade Wu should hurry back and take the medicine home, the child is most important. We can catch upter, and we haven''t eaten yet, so let''s go eat first and wait for you at the same time."


    Wu Lei instantly felt relieved and quickly replied, "OK, there is a state-run restaurant to the left of the hospital entrance, you guys go eat first, and I''ll treat youter. I live close by, just ten minutes or so, I''ll be there in no time."


    Wu Lei rushed out as if he couldn''t wait to run.


    "Are you tired?" Pei Jing asked Zhi Xia.


    "Not tired, let''s go," Zhi Xia held his hand and stood up with his support.


    To say she wasn''t tired was impossible. Nowadays, even standing for a while would exhaust her, let alone running around like this all morning.


    But there was no way around the suffering of a pregnant woman. It was something no one else could take over for her.


    Pei Jing was still holding things in his hand to support her as they left.


    The state-run restaurants in Lingjiang City were really not as good as those in Jin City. At mealtime now, there was only one customer eating by the window when they entered, eating a te of plump dumplings.


    Just looking at it made Zhi Xia hungry instantly.


    The service sister was sitting at the table cracking melon seeds, the crisp sound indicating she was enjoying it. With one nce, there was a pile of melon seed shells in front of her. She clearly had no intention of getting up to serve customers.


    They found an empty spot and sat down. Zhi Xia said, "Let''s have dumplings too."


    Pei Jing certainly had no objections and called out to the sister, "Sister, please bring us two tes of dumplings."


    "Dumplings are sold out," the sister replied without pausing from cracking her seeds.


    In this era of state-owned enterprises, all kinds of goods were scarce. The service industry was not only devoid of the principle that the customer is king, but the attitudes were very arrogant.


    This was not targeted at any one person, but applied to everyone.


    "Then two bowls of noodles," Zhi Xia said.


    Only then did the service sister slowly get up, took their money and food coupon, and casually called out to the kitchen window.


    Soon after, two bowls of noodles appeared at the window.


    Before the service sister could get up, Pei Jing stood up first and said, "No need to trouble you sister, I''ll bring them over myself."


    Perfect, she didn''t want to move anyway. The sister continued cracking her seeds.


    Halfway through the meal, Wu Lei rushed in, out of breath, and sat next to Pei Jing and Zhi Xia. "I''m really sorry to keep you waiting for so long!"


    Wu Lei also ordered a bowl of noodles. When the noodles were served, Zhi Xia finally understood why Pei Jing had gotten up to bring the noodles over himself earlier.


    The sister''s fingers were ck from cracking melon seeds, though her nails were neatly trimmed. Clearly some had oozed into the noodle soup.


    Yet Wu Lei ate with relish as if he didn''t notice anything.


    A pregnant woman''s appetite was peculiar - famished one moment and unable to take another bite the next after the slightest upset.


    Seeing she had stopped eating, Pei Jing finished her leftover noodles as well.


    Wu Lei ate quickly. Making some small talk while eating, he started probing, "When I saw you on the trainst time, your wife was already pregnant right? Time really flies. Who would have thought we''d meet again at the hospital after all this time. What a coincidence, wouldn''t you say Brother Pei?"


    "Yes, quite a coincidence," Pei Jing smiled and meaningfully said, "Big Brother Wu made us wait today, he wouldn''t just be wanting to catch up right?"


    Wu Lei''s expression froze for a moment, realizing he''d been seen through. He decided to get right to the point, "Sister Zhi Xia, actually my main purpose today is to have a chat with you."


    "Mr. Wu, please go ahead," Zhi Xia was still very polite since he still needed their help.


    "It''s about the mung bean cakes again," Wu Lei said somewhat apologetically. "Although you saidst time you don''t n to sell the recipe, I still want to shamelessly ask one more time. You said you just randomly came up with the recipe. Why not sell it to us to make some money? Or if you have other requests, we can discuss it."


    Zhi Xia and Pei Jing exchanged a nce, having already guessed his intentions earlier, so they were not surprised now.


    "To be honest, sister must know, when we metst year, I was actually sent out to study. I went through a lot of trouble begging my elders before I was allowed to go. As the saying goes, don''t teach your apprentice too well or he will surpass the master. They agreed on the surface but were still wary. The products we made look fine but the taste is mediocre. Lingjiang City Food Factory has over 10 years of history. The only noteworthy product is sweet potato dry in all these years. It was still somewhat profitable in the first few years but has been operating at a loss in recent years..."


    Though their interactions were limited, Wu Lei could tell neither Pei Jing nor Zhi Xia were out to take advantage of them, so he told the truth straightforwardly.


    His position as R&D Director was just a vanity title. He had two people under him and hadn''t developed any noteworthy products over the years.


    The factory had been operating at a loss for several consecutive years. The state wouldn''t keep subsidizing so many freeloaders either. If things didn''t improve, what they would face next time wouldn''t be criticism but discussions on dissolution.


    Though the factory was small, it represented the life''s work of him and others there, as well as the few dozen workers. If it went under, they would have no choice but to return home and live off thend.


    Wu Lei had finally made it to a director position in his 30s. With a wife and kids to support, he was naturally unwilling to be unemployed or start over. He wanted to give it another try and felt Zhi Xia''s mung bean cakes were an opportunity.


    Though Wu Lei didn''t have many aplishments in R&D, he had tasted many products over the years in pursuit of it. Of all the cakes and pastries, Zhi Xia''s mung bean cakes were the most delicious he had ever eaten.


    Wu Lei exaggerated the factory''s plight, realizing the other party were not short on money so he had to appeal to their sympathy.


    Wu Lei spoke more passionately, also hoping to build good rapport with Zhi Xia.


    He understood food products well enough to know that some people could nevere up with good recipes despite their best efforts, while the talented could easily churn out new products from casual tinkering.


    "Sister Zhi Xia, I see you are still young. You should be following the army now right? Our country advocates equal rights between men and women, women can hold up half the sky. Are you willing to spend your best years mired in domesticity, watching your youth slip away in futile drudgery without pursuing your own career?"

 Chapter 132: A New Understanding of the World

    <h4>Chapter 132</h4>


    Witnessing Wu Lei''s increasingly absurd remarks, Pei Jing gestured to him, "Comrade Wu, my wife is pregnant."


    How could he have initially targeted the form, but now it seemed like he was tempting Zhi Xia toe to the city?


    Pei Jing didn''t want to restrict Zhi Xia''s freedom. Even if the issue of taking care of the child could be resolved, he couldn''t bear to let Zhi Xia work alone in the city.


    Wu Lei also realized the situation at this moment. After considering his arguments for several months, it seemed impractical in the face of Zhi Xia''s pregnant belly.


    "Sorry, sorry, I got too carried away and neglected the fact that you''re pregnant, sister." Wu Lei wiped his sweat. He had the idea of bringing Zhi Xia to the factory, but now it seemed unrealistic. He could only temporarily focus on the mung bean cake.


    Helplessly, Zhi Xia smiled and said, "Brother Wu, actually, you don''t need to say so much. I initially said I wouldn''t sell the form because I didn''t see the need. In reality, keeping it for myself serves no purpose either. If it can be useful to you, it''s fine to sell it to you."


    "In that case, does it mean you''ve agreed?" Although he didn''t manage to recruit her, Wu Lei was still quite happy to obtain the form.


    At least he could make aeback and not appear to be someone who just freeloaded as the head of the research and development department.


    Zhi Xia nodded. In the end, they reached a deal for 300 yuan. Zhi Xia also suggested that he could rece the mung bean filling with other options like red bean or chestnut, creating a new product.


    Wu Lei felt like he had found a treasure. This time, Pei Jing paid for the meal himself, making Wu Lei, who had originally intended to treat them, feel a bit embarrassed. So, when he heard that Pei Jing and Zhi Xia were looking for a temporary ce to stay, he immediately thought of his vacant small courtyard.


    Wu Lei had two houses side by side, originally upied by his parents. But his parents had passed away a few years ago, so the houses had been vacant. After Pei Jing and Zhi Xia went to see it, they immediately decided to move in.


    No matter what, Wu Lei refused to ept rent, but Pei Jing insisted on giving it to his wife.


    Although there was the favor of the mung bean cake beforehand, Pei Jing didn''t want to take advantage of the situation. After all, it''s impolite to bite the hand that feeds you. Only by paying rent could they consider this ce their own territory. Otherwise, it would be considered temporary lodging, and if any disputes aroseter, they would be on the losing side.


    Moreover, judging by the appearance of Wu Lei''s wife, she didn''t seem like an easy person to get along with. Otherwise, as soon as she heard that he didn''t want rent, her expression immediately changed. She only recovered her smile after receiving the money from Pei Jing.


    Renting the small courtyard for five yuan a month was quite expensive.


    When the couple left, Pei Jing said, "I''ll go backter to get some things and bring Meng Meng over to apany you, Zhi Xia. Wu Lei seems like a good person, but his wife seems the type who only cares about personal gain. If you have any disputes, just bear with it temporarily. I''ll handle everything when Ie over, okay?"


    "Don''t worry, I''m not a child," Zhi Xia replied.


    "Oh, and you should inform your family about being pregnant with twins," Pei Jing added. As for whether anyone woulde overter, they didn''t consider that problem.


    Zhi Xia nodded and let him go quickly.


    She closed the door and went into her space to rest alone.


    The whole ordeal had exhausted her physically and mentally.


    Things were rtively calm on their side, but the situation next door was not as peaceful.


    When Wu Lei left Zhi Xia''s ce, he still had a cheerful smile on his face. However, the moment he entered his own yard, his expression changed instantly.


    "When I was discussing with you just now, I specifically asked you to be polite and not to show a sour face, Zhang Lin. You are in your forties, can''t you understand anything? Don''t you know that we are the ones asking for their help now, not the other way around? Did I owe you money or something?" Wu Lei thought about maintaining a good rtionship with Zhi Xia. Since she coulde up with a mung bean cake, maybe she had some other interesting things as well.


    He had always been aware that the woman he married, Zhang Lin, had nothing to offer except her good looks. asionally, she would even be a burden.


    Most men are like this. When they are in love, ws are seen as strengths. But once the novelty wears off, the very same ws that were tolerable be magnified, leading to increased disgust.


    Wu Lei and Zhang Lin''s marriage perfectly reflected this point.


    Wu Lei had a temper, and Zhang Lin''s temper was even worse. She immediately retorted, "What do you mean by ''we''re asking for their help''? Did you buy their mung bean cake and not pay for it or something? Since it''s a win-win situation, why talk about asking or not asking? Wu Lei, don''t think I don''t know what you''re thinking. You just want to take care of her more because she''s beautiful. Let me warn you, I, Zhang Lin, am not someone easy to bully. If you dare to have those wandering thoughts outside, I''ll fight with you until the end. Don''t expect to have it good."


    Zhang Lin was also unhappy. She had noticed the changes in Wu Lei over the years. He used to be like this when he was pursuing her, so why was he starting to find fault now?


    Zhang Lin knew she was beautiful. Even when she was just a girl, she had a bigger temper than this. Wu Lei was able to tolerate her and always appease her precisely because he was attracted to her appearance.


    Now that he had her, he didn''t know how to appreciate it, and on top of that, he criticized her for being old and unattractive.


    He didn''t even consider his own appearance. Although Wu Lei was tall, he wasn''t good-looking at all. Small eyes, a t nose, and a chubby face made his chin wide and his forehead narrow. Fortunately, he always had a smile on his face when meeting people, which gave off a friendly vibe.


    Zhang Lin had been able to choose Wu Lei back then because he didn''t look good but had good prospects and a stable job. He was also ambitious, and she was after his money.


    Otherwise, there were plenty of others pursuing her, some even more polished and refined. She must have been blind to choose such a person.


    But fate was truly blind. Those who were good-looking were often dirt poor. Forget about money; they didn''t even have a house after getting married. It was not umon for two generations to squeeze into one room.


    On the other hand, someone like Wu Lei, a toad, was the only child in his family and owned two houses, including his parents'' and his own. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have chosen him.


    The couple had a few arguments, neither willing to give in, and they parted ways while their son was suffering from a stomach ache after taking medicine.


    Perhaps this is the advantage of marrying a beautiful wife, and it is currently the only thing Wu Lei is satisfied with regarding Zhang Lin. He is not good-looking himself, but their son takes after his mother. At such a young age, he is already a handsome kid, which can be considered as an improvement in the appearance genes of their Wu family.


    Zhi Xia woke up from a nap, and her stomach, which hadn''t eaten much for lunch, was growling with hunger.


    She had a meal in her personal space and ate a snow crystal fruit.


    This fruit came from the ancient orc dimension, with a snow-white and translucent color and a refreshing taste. It is considered a rare treasure even in the orc dimension.


    ording to Hu Niu, this fruit is most suitable for women to consume as it can remove impurities from the body and improve the skin.


    Indeed, after eating this fruit, Zhi Xia felt like she had grown taller. From her original height of only 1.58 meters, she was now 1.63 meters.


    Zhi Xia directly asked for a tree from Hu Niu and nted it in her personal space. It has already borne fruit, and the fruit pits she nted around have sprouted and grown into seedlings.


    She also cleared a mountaintop in her space deliberately for nting fruit trees from the orc dimension.


    In Zhi Xia''s eyes, the ancient orc dimension was more like a giant dimension because everything there was enormous. The trees were so tall that they seemed to touch the sky.


    Apples the size of heads, strawberries the size of fists, pumpkins the size of buckets, and watermelons bigger than winter melons��itpletely refreshed her understanding of the world.

 Chapter 133: The Bearer

    <h4>Chapter 133</h4>


    Stepping out of the space, the sky was still not dark, and the twilight dyed the sky a deep red.


    As the due date approached, Pei Meng would always go for a walk in the evening when she was at home, with Pei Jing apanying her when he wasn''t busy.


    After all, it was because of negligence that Zhi Xia and An ZhiAng had given birth prematurely, so the bigger Pei Meng''s belly grew, the more worried Pei Jing became about leaving her alone at home. It made her have very little free time.


    Of course, only someone who is loved would be cared for in this way, so it could be considered a sweet burden.


    As she opened the door to go out, she coincidentally ran into Wu Leiing back.


    He was still holding a lunchbox in his hand, smiling and greeting the elderlydies who were enjoying the coolness by the door.


    When he reached the doorway, Zhi Xia smiled and spoke, "Brother Wu, are you off work now?"


    "Yes, off work. Little sister, you probably haven''t eaten yet. It''s not convenient for you to cook alone. The restaurant we went to for lunch is not far to the left. If it''s not convenient for you, I can go buy something for you," he didn''t dare suggest that Zhi Xia should make do at home. If the tigress at home got angry, it would make everyone look bad. It was a pity that he had been foolish in his mind at the beginning, just wanting to marry a beautiful woman, but ended up being a mess in handling social interactions. It made him even afraid to bring friends home.


    "Thank you, Brother Wu, for your kindness, but I actually wanted to go out for a stroll. I won''t trouble you," Zhi Xia politely declined.


    "Alright then, I''ve already greeted Brother Pei. If you need anything, don''t hesitate to call out loudly. I can hear you from here."


    After exchanging pleasantries, Wu Lei went back home, and Zhi Xia closed the door and went out.


    However, as soon as Wu Lei entered the house, he saw his wife Zhang Lin in the courtyard, her face full of sarcasm as she spoke, "Calling her ''little sister'' and ''Brother Wu'' again, so intimate. And shamelessly rushing to be someone''sckey. Why don''t you care about our own home like that?"


    "Zhang Lin, I''m already exhausted from work outside. Can''t you stop acting like this as soon as Ie home?" Wu Lei felt truly weary. "She''s a pregnant woman about to give birth. What do you think I can afford to think about her? You''ve seen her husband, tall and handsome, with two stars and two bars on his military uniform. He doesn''t even look at me. I really don''t understand what you''re fussing about."


    As for him neglecting their home, it made even less sense.


    Leaving aside the fact that he was the only one working in the family, providing for all their needs, Zhang Lin had been married for so many years and still couldn''t even cook a meal. He cooked in the morning, brought back food for lunch and dinner in the afternoon. That was already enough for her.


    Sometimes, it wasn''t that love had diminished, but rather that all the pressure had been piled on him alone for a long time, making it too exhausting, and he just found it uninteresting.


    Zhi Xia had already eaten in the space, so she didn''t need to go to the restaurant for a meal.


    Speaking of the location of Wu Lei''s home, it was actually quite good. It should be considered the best central location.


    Going straight ahead to the left was a state-owned restaurant, and further ahead was the city hospital. Zhi Xia chose to go right when she went out, and it didn''t take long for her to reach the supply and marketing cooperative. However, at this time, the cooperative had already closed its doors.


    Pedestrians hurried along the road, some carrying lunch boxes, mostly workers who had just finished work.


    Zhi Xia walked carefully by the side of the road, afraid of identally bumping into someone.


    Having made a round, she started to walk back since there was nothing particrly interesting.


    Halfway through, she met Pei Jinging towards her. She happily approached him, "You''re here?"


    Pei Jing nodded and came over to support her. "Why are you out alone?"


    "I just had a little something to eat and came out to aid digestion," Zhi Xia replied.


    The two of them walked home together. Pei Jing had already tidied up the room, and the bedding was spread on the bed.


    He pulled Zhi Xia into the room and kissed her forehead with guilt. "I''m sorry, for these few days, I can only leave Mengmeng here to take care of you. But don''t worry, I''ve made arrangements. In ten days, I''ve applied for half a month of leave. If anything happens on your end within these ten days, let Mengmeng go next door to ask Director Wu for help. He will call the troops to inform me, and I''lle over as soon as possible."


    "Yeah, I believe you, and I believe our baby will be fine," Zhi Xia said. "It''s alreadyte today, so you probably won''t go back, right?"


    "I''ll go back tomorrow morning," Pei Jing hesitated and added, "I''ve also informed Jincheng. Someone should being in the next few days."


    He considered the third person; not mentioning it was unrealistic.


    Zhi Xia could throw a tantrum, but as a mature man, he had to think things through.


    They couldn''t stay away from Jincheng forever, nor could they cut off contact with that ce.


    Zhi Xia understood this principle, so she didn''t say anything.


    When Zhi Xia woke up in the morning, she didn''t know how long Pei Jing had been gone.


    When they came, they brought food and could cook for themselves.


    In the morning, Pei Meng went out for a walk and happened to see someone selling breakfast, so she bought soy milk and fried dough sticks.


    Zhi Xia was also looking forward to it, hoping she could hold on until Pei Jing''s vacation to give birth. The long period of time spent together had made her dependent on him.


    Pei Jing was a man, but he wasn''t a chauvinistic person. His thoughts were particrly delicate, making people feel veryfortable when they were with him.


    It always felt like when he was around, there was no need to worry about anything. Whatever was needed or ufortable, he could promptly notice, making people feel particrly at ease.


    During these few days, he didn''tpletely abandon them here; instead, he hurriedly came in the afternoon but left before dawn.


    Seeing him work so hard, Zhi Xia felt warm and started to worry about him.


    She told him not to worry about this side and not to take time off toe over. She would notify him whenbor began, and he coulde then.


    After all, it was her first time giving birth, and they said it wouldn''t be too fast duringbor. It wasmon for some people to take several days frombor to delivery.


    Pei Jing just listened to these words.


    The child in Zhi Xia''s belly was his, but he couldn''t bear the pain of pregnancy. He couldn''t even provide the most basicpany now. If he didn''t take the time toe over, would he still be considered a man?


    Time passed, and four or five days went by.


    To ensure a smooth delivery, Zhi Xia and Pei Meng would go out for a walk every day after eating.


    One afternoon, Zhi Xia, who was pregnant and feeling sleepy, intended to take a nap. However, she heard a knocking sound at the door.


    Pei Meng rushed to open the door and excitedly shouted inside, "Sister-inw,e out quickly! Aunt An and Brother Zhi Xian are here!"


    An Zhi Xian yfully tapped Pei Meng on the head and said, "You are my sister-inw, so why are you calling her sister-inw and me brother?!"


    "What''s the big deal? Grandpa already said it''s up to each individual, and I''m just taking advantage of you. Hehe," Pei Meng said, intentionally moving away to avoid being hit again.


    Zhou Nan red at An Zhi Xian and said, "Meng Meng is already married and is an adult now. You can''t be so casual in the future."


    They got married before the New Year, and if nothing unexpected happened, there might already be a baby in her belly. The younger generation shouldn''t be too careless in their yful actions, as it could lead to mistakes.

 Chapter 134: The point is made

    <h4>Chapter 134</h4>


    An ZhiXian helplessly rolled his eyes and said, ��Alright, alright, let��s hurry up and go in, I��m exhausted after such a long trip.��


    Just the train ride alone was two or three days. As a grown man, sitting for so long made his bones feel all crumbly, and they still had to hurry back tomorrow.


    Zhou Nan had alreadye out from the house. She had thought that if it was Zhou Grannying, it would probably just be her alone, but she didn��t expect that An ZhiXian woulde along too.


    As for An ZhiXian, he had only asked for leave to bring them here, and still had to hurry back to work. He wouldn''t be staying here.


    Zhou Nan politely greeted, ��Granny, mother, third brother, you��re here.��


    As soon as Zhou Nan saw Pei Meng, her eyes became misty. She had a feeling of wanting to get close but not daring to get close.


    An ZhiXian kindly smiled and walked over, ��Little sister, long time no see.��


    Zhou Granny put her things in the house, then affectionately took Pei Meng''s hand, ��Child, I��m sorry you��ve suffered, being this far along with no one to care for you. But that will change now that your mother and I are here. We already discussed it on the way over that we will stay and care for you until your postpartum period ends before leaving again. Don��t stand on ceremony with us. Let Pei Jing focus on his work. Just tell us if you need anything.��


    ��I understand. Thank you Granny, and thank you Mother and Third Brother foring all this way,�� Pei Meng said.


    Seeing the obedient look on the girl��s face, Zhou Granny��s heart nearly shattered.


    She had not expected that her own daughter and son-inw would do something so muddleheaded, hurting their own daughter for the sake of an adopted daughter. This had also caused no small amount of trouble for her inws.


    Thinking about what her mother-inw had told her back then, Zhou Granny couldn��t help but resent her own daughter.


    In her eyes, being able to marry into such a good family was her daughter��s greatest blessing in life. Her inws were capable people, her husband had ambition, and their children were all so excellent. As long as she didn��t sabotage things herself, she could have enjoyed a lifetime of blessings.


    Yet when she was getting on in years, this whole baby swap mess happened, and even Zhou Granny in her old age had to get involved.


    The only reason Zhou Granny was able toe was because the elderly Madam had brought generous gifts, and she and the Master had personally gone to ask her toe instruct Zhou Nan, so that mother and daughter would not be estranged over someone who was already dead and gone.


    The Master and Madam also had their own concerns. After all, the two of them were already advanced in years. Their granddaughter would still have to rely on this family in the future, so it was only natural that they hoped she would be closer to them.


    What��s more, the elderly couple hoped that at their age, the family would be harmonious with no illness or cmity, so that they could all be together peacefully. Who would wish for constant conflict in the home?


    Zhou Nan and Zhou Granny��s arrival also brought many gifts: baby clothes, nkets, packs made by Zhou Nan, Zhou Granny, and the elderly Madam. Pei Jing��s second sister-inw had also made a set, while two aunties knitted two pairs of tiger shoes and small socks, probably to be worn when the weather turned cold.


    Seeing the meticulously made little outfits, Pei Meng put them all away.


    Because of limited space, and since Pei Meng had been caring for her these past several days, she nned to return to the military camp for now. With Zhou Nan and Zhou Granny here now, Pei Meng probably wouldn��t need her anymore.


    In this regard, Pei Meng felt a bit apologetic. The young couple had only been married a few months, and they were still in the honeymoon stage. Yet Pei Meng''s pregnancy had caused Pei Meng to burden her these past days.


    Pei Meng thought that when Pei Meng became pregnant, she would have to do her best to care for her as well.


    With only two rooms to live in, they were fortunate that the weather had already warmed up, so thick bedding wasn��t needed. Zhou Granny told Zhou Nan to share a room with Pei Meng, and secretly kept reminding her silly daughter to stay alert at night. She hade to care for others, not to sleep like the dead herself, otherwise she��d be useless when the need arose.


    Zhou Nan felt wronged, but she also knew she was in the wrong here andcked confidence around Pei Meng.


    Pei Meng didn��t want Pei Meng walking back alone, so she said to An ZhiXian: ��Third brother, please take Pei Meng back. You can stay the night there too.��


    ��Auntie, there��s no need to send me back. I''m not unable to find my way. I can return by myself. Brother An ZhiXian sat on the train for so long, he must be exhausted. Let him rest properly,�� Pei Meng said. She knew An ZhiXian was leaving tomorrow, so this one night was the only time the siblings could talk. If he sent her back, even that night would be upied.


    "It''s better if I take you back. It''s quite a ways from town to the military camp. If you can''t get an ox cart, you''ll have to walk back. The wheat is tall now, so it''s unsafe for a girl to be walking alone," Pei Meng said. She sympathized with An ZhiXian''s travel fatigue, but a little more tiredness was better than danger.


    Zhou Granny quickly chimed in agreement, "You should listen to your auntie on this. Things like this really do happen in the countryside, especially when the crops in the fields are thriving. If you run into bad people, they could pull you into the fields in an instant. Then it would be toote for regrets. Pei Meng, you have to be careful about this too. Don''t go on long journeys alone if you can avoid it. And if unavoidable, never take small paths."


    Taking big roads meant more people around. Small paths were shortcuts that were even more dangerous.


    Pei Meng was timid by nature. Hearing this scared her.


    "Brother An ZhiXian, I wanted you to rest properly, but it seems you''ll have to tire yourself more," she conceded.


    "That''s fine. My bones got all loose from sitting on the train for days. Some exercise will be good. And it''s a rare chance for me toe visit, so I want to see what the military camp is like too."


    After seeing them off, Zhou Granny said she and Zhou Nan would go out for an orientation of the area. Though they wouldn''t be staying long, even a few days required handling eating, drinking, and sanitation issues. Getting they of thend early would prevent confusionter.


    Zhou Granny was an old hand in the vige. Once outside, she gathered with a group of older uncles and aunties and chatted them up. In less than half an hour, she had a clear picture of where the hospital was, which restaurants were around, where to buy things normally, and so on.


    When the local seniors heard Zhou Granny was here to care for her granddaughter giving birth, especially to twins, they were all envious. Once children were brought up, the old folks had even more to talk about.


    Pei Meng''s prediction came true. An ZhiXian and Pei Meng walked all the way back from town without a single ox cart passing them.


    With An ZhiXian, a grown man there, Pei Meng wasn''t afraid. To get to the camp faster, they took shortcuts the whole way.


    The April wheat had already sprouted, still green and swaying in the spring breeze, painting quite a beautiful scene.


    While appreciating the view, Pei Meng heard An ZhiXian ask, "Pei Meng, did you hear someone crying for help?"


    "What are you talking about, An ZhiXian? I''m timid, don''t try to scare me." Remembering her auntie''s words, plus An ZhiXian''s mischievousness towards her as a child, Pei Meng instinctively thought this.

 Chapter 135: Rescue

    <h4>Chapter 135</h4>


    However, as soon as the words fell, the cry for help grew louder.


    The wheat waves in the wheat field on the left surged, and a shadow shed by, then was quickly knocked down again and disappeared without a trace.


    "Crawl on the ground and hide, don''te out until I call you." An ZhiXian threw the luggage in his hand to Pei Meng, and said a word before rushing towards the surging wheat waves.


    Pei Meng also reacted that they had encountered something. She hurriedly ran into the wheat field and obediently hid herself. She couldn''t help but peek out at the direction An ZhiXian rushed to, praying that he would not be injured.


    An ZhiXian didn''t care about the wheat that was stepped on under his feet. He rushed to the middle of the wheat field and saw a woman being pressed to the ground by two lean men, her mouth was also stuffed with something, and her clothes were in disarray.


    He quickly reacted, kicked one of the men in the head.


    An ZhiXian also practiced some moves with his family when he was a child. It didn''t take long for him to knock down the two men one-on-two.


    After seeing the two men unable to get up lying on the ground, he turned his head back to look at the woman who had been bullied.


    The woman hurriedly tidied up her clothes. It was just that the buttons on her shirt had all popped off, and her pants had been torn. She dodged in shame.


    Suddenly, she looked at him in horror and shouted to the person who saved her, "Be careful..."


    An ZhiXian only heard these two words before feeling a pain in his lower back where he had been stabbed with a knife.


    The person who stabbed him, seeing that he had taken a life, was so scared that he didn''t care about anything else, turned around and ran away. The other one who was still lying on the ground also struggled to get up and crawled away.


    An ZhiXian was a doctor himself. Based on his experience, the pain and the position where he was stabbed, he judged that his injury was not serious, but he might not be able to walk too far.


    Looking at the woman in front of him who was rescued, he didn''t have the energy to say anything more, just walked to the ce where Pei Meng was hiding while supporting himself.


    "Pei Meng..." There was arge stretch of wheat field in front of him, and An ZhiXian didn''t know where she had hidden.


    As soon as Pei Meng heard the voice, she stood up and ran towards An ZhiXian. But when she got close, she saw the flustered woman following behind An ZhiXian clearly.


    "How can it be you?" That face, although much changed, could still be recognized by her, thanks to her extreme dislike of it, so she remembered it deeply.


    Sure enough, the person An ZhiXian had saved was Shen Hongxing, who got divorcedst year. It was unclear whether it was An ZhiXian''s bad luck or Shen Hongxing''s good fortune.


    Judging from Pei Meng''s expression, the woman behind was someone she knew and didn''t get along well with.


    But now was not the time to care about this. He reminded Pei Meng, "Where are the stuff? I''m injured and need to treat it first."


    Luckily, due to his professional habits, he had medicine in his package.


    Pei Meng only noticed then that An ZhiXian had been clutching his waist tightly, and blood was already oozing from his fingers.


    Pei Meng had forgotten about that stuff just now in her nervousness. She hurried back to find it.


    An ZhiXian reminded the woman behind him, "I''m afraid those two people will react ande back to kill for a cover up, you''d better hide too."


    He walked in the direction Pei Meng had gone, and urgently treated the wound in the wheat field.


    Every step was very painful, but he had to persevere.


    Shen Hongxing had found her own package and changed into clothes that could cover her body. She followed them with fear in her heart, helping to support An ZhiXian.


    On the way, Pei Meng looked at Shen Hongxing with an ugly expression, "I''m telling you, you woman are so vicious and stupid. Don''t you know how dangerous it is for a woman to walk on a small road when the crops have grown so tall? Yet you still walk that way, are you deliberately trying to harm us?"


    Shen Hongxing didn''t dare to speak when scolded, she could only apologize repeatedly, saying she was sorry.


    In fact, whether it was a highway or a trail, it was unsafe for a woman alone.


    The highway was still better during the day, but it was obvious that it was impossible for her to get to the army on just her two legs before dark. So she took the trail.


    An ZhiXian was injured, and the three of them did not dare to take the trail. They had to turn to the highway.


    Although they still did not encounter ox carts, they met kind vigers. As soon as they heard that they had encountered viins on the road, and that they were military dependents, they quickly took them back to the vige, notified the army, and sent An ZhiXian to the hospital.


    Originally, An ZhiXian was going to rush back to Jincheng. If nothing unexpected happened, after sending Pei Meng to rest with the troops for one night, he would have to rush back and then catch the afternoon train.


    But An ZhiXian still hadn''te back by noon the next day, so Zhou Nan and Zhixia became uneasy.


    After careful consideration, Zhixia let Zhou Nan go out and call the troops to ask about the situation.


    Only then did they know that An ZhiXian was injured, but not seriously. He was in the town hospital now. In a couple of days, he would go to the city with Pei Jing. This reassured them, and the matter of returning to Jincheng had to be postponed.


    In the kitchen, ribs were bubbling in the pot, filling the whole yard with fragrance.


    But only one bowl was served, ced in front of Zhixia, while Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan had noodles with the meat broth.


    This was not the first time. Zhixia had said that she could not eat so much, and they did not have to specially make food for her. But each time Zhou Granny refuted her.


    Zhou Nan seemed very cautious. She talked very little, especially when facing Zhixia.


    This was also the request of Granny when she came. If you don''t know how to speak, just say less and do things well. With asional reminders from her own mother here, Zhou Nan was even more afraid that she might do something wrong to upset Zhixia.


    Some of the cherries in the yard had started to turn red these days. Wu Lei told her to pick and eat as she wished, saying they had another tree in their yard that they couldn''t finish anyway. In previous years, they had always given them to nearby neighbors.


    But she didn''t know that Zhang Lin came over with her child every day after he went to work and picked all the ripe cherries. Her words also revealed that if she wanted to eat, she could pay to buy them, but was rejected.


    Zhixia didn''t care. She wasn''tcking food anyway.


    On the other hand, Zhou Granny disliked Zhang Lin''s petty behavior andined from time to time that thendlord''s wife was not good. But Wu Lei was kind, which made her feel that he was a nice person.


    It was a pity that he married such a daughter-inw. People who could have been friends became somewhat annoying to get along with.


    A few dayster, Pei Jing''s requested vacation arrived, and he came to the city with the almost recovered An ZhiXian.


    Only then did they know that on the day Pei Meng went back, something really happened on the road. Although it was to rescue others, An ZhiXian was stabbed.


    Fortunately, it wasn''t deep and didn''t hurt any internal organs. Other than An ZhiXian''s dislike of the ugly scar left behind from the stitches, there was no major problem.


    Moreover, because he was injured while rescuing others, the army also sent a letter ofmendation to the hospital he was in, which would be very beneficial to An ZhiXian''s future.


    After all, this rescue was worthwhile.


    After dinner, Zhou Granny took Zhou Nan out and insisted that An ZhiXian go with them.


    The wound on his waist had been removed of stitches, and there was no major problem.


    Zhixia and Pei Jing both saw that this was to give them some time alone.

 Chapter 136: Wild Speculation

    <h4>Chapter 136</h4>


    The two also dly epted it.


    Looking at the closed door, Pei Jing stood up and walked towards ZhiXia, gently cing his big hand on ZhiXia''s belly to greet the child.


    "Have you been sleeping well these past few days? Have the little ones been bothering you?" Pei Jing knew that theter it got in the pregnancy, the harder it was for her to sleep at night, especially with the children moving around in her belly like monkeys.


    In the days prior, he had apanied her every night, feeling distressed yet helpless.


    "Still the same." ZhiXia spread her hands helplessly, "But they really know how to endure in my belly. I didn''t expect them to wait until you came on vacation."


    Pei Jing hoped that ZhiXia would give birth in these two days, because he only had half a month of time. The earlier the children were born, the more days he could spend with her and the children.


    "Oh right, is the person my third brother saved also in the army? What does he do? And were those two thugs captured?" The previous conversation wasn''t very clear, so ZhiXia still had many guesses in her mind.


    "They were caught. Attempted rape and assault with a deadly weapon, the punishment for these two won''t be light." It was also unfortunate for Shen Hongxing. The two thugs were local ruffians from a nearby vige. They happened toe across Shen Hongxing walking alone on the road with a package on her back. They thought that even if they did something to her, she was just a woman and could only swallow the bitter pill. They didn''t expect to fail so badly.


    Indeed, if An ZhiXian and Pei Meng hadn''t happened to pass by that day, even if Shen Hongxing was really taken advantage of, she wouldn''t have dared to publicly use them. The world was that harsh on women. No one would care whether you were the real victim. Others would just gossip, pushing people into desperation.


    It was good that they were caught. ZhiXia felt relieved.


    Regarding the identity of the rescued person, Pei Jing didn''t say, so ZhiXia didn''t dwell on it.


    After Zhou Granny and the other two women took a stroll around the yard, Pei Jing brought water for ZhiXia to take a bath.


    ZhiXia could also bathe in her space, but didn''t dare do it too often with so many people around, afraid of being discovered.


    After it warmed up in early spring, Pei Jing had also set up a bathing area next to the kitchen. However, he didn''t allow her to bathe alone, after all, it wasn''t safe being heavily pregnant.


    There was also the issue that she couldn''t bend over, and it was very tiring, especially after her belly grew bigger over the past two months. She couldn''t even look down to see her feet, and could only have him help her.


    At first she felt very shy, but after getting used to it, it was fine.


    Once in the room, Zhou Granny secretly said to Zhou Nan, "The husband ZhiXia found isn''t bad. Men who can take such good care of their wives are rare."


    Zhou Nan had also seen it. When ZhiXia first got married, it really left them all confused, especially since the groom was Pei Jing.


    But now it seemed that this was actually quite good.


    Pei Jing had been mature and steady since childhood. He was a child that never needed others to worry about him. Adding to the rtionship between their two families, there was no need to worry about ZhiXia being mistreated in the Pei family either.


    This child had suffered since she was little. Being matched with someone like Pei Jing who cherished her was also lucky.


    "He''s pretty good. It''s just that I''ve been a little worried about ZhiXia''s belly these past few days, but didn''t dare ask." Zhou Nan thought over and over before quietly telling Zhou Granny her doubts, "Mom, isn''t ZhiXia only seven months pregnant? But she said the birth is imminent. Isn''t that a bit early?"


    Zhou Granny had been a midwife her whole life and had delivered countless babies. How could she not tell how many months pregnant ZhiXia actually was.


    She looked at her grandson sitting to the side, and pulled Zhou Nan back to the room. "You silly girl, I tell you that you''re silly but you really don''t have any brains. You''ve given birth to four or five children yourself and still can''t tell. Your daughter''s belly doesn''t look like it''s seven months along. I''m afraid it''s from before the wedding..."


    After all, everyone knew very clearly when ZhiXia and Pei Jing got married.


    The military people might not know, but they understood very well.


    "No wonder they rushed the wedding so urgently back then. How did I not think of this earlier?" Zhou Nan was devastated and suddenly turned around, "No, I have to ask about this."


    She had felt that Pei Jing was very reliable before, but for him to get a girl over a generation younger than him pregnant before marriage, and that girl was her daughter no less, she now felt that he was unreliable no matter what.


    Zhou Granny hurriedly stopped her, "If you go ask now, what will you ask? Won''t you just be creating awkwardness for the children and yourself for no reason?"


    "But mom, how can I just pretend not to know?" Zhou Nan said painfully.


    "You do have to pretend not to know! Zhou Nan, use your pig brain and think carefully for me. If your inws were able to agree to this marriage, they probably already knew about it long ago. Did they say anything about it?" Zhou Granny suddenly recalled ZhiXia''s situation when she first arrived at their home and said, "When ZhiXia first came to the Zhou family, her clothes showed signs of being torn. We were suspicious of her background at the time and didn''t pay much attention to this detail. But thinking back now, she was probably already...back then."


    Zhou Granny really hoped that her guess was wrong. But based on the timing, ZhiXia''s belly size really could match up, it was just right.


    Zhou Nan instantly felt dizzy and copsed limply to the ground. "That can''t be. If it had happened back then, the child couldn''t possibly be Pei Jing''s. Why would he marry ZhiXia? And recognize the child as his own?"


    In Zhou Nan''s impression, Pei Jing had just returned home back then and was quite seriously injured. They had all gone to see him.


    "Stop guessing blindly. These are all just our own spections. There''s no solid evidence. Listen to mom, pretend you don''t know anything about this. Things will continue as they have been. Look at how affectionate those two children are. Isn''t that enough? What''s the point of worrying so much?" Zhou Granny believed that no matter whether the child was Pei Jing''s or not, since he had recognized the child as his own, he must have his own reasons.


    Or perhaps Pei Jing was just an escape route arranged by Grandpa An for ZhiXia. After all, Grandpa Pei owed Grandpa An a huge favor. Using one son to repay that favor now wasn''t a big deal.


    Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan''s minds were in turmoil, which led to Zhou Nan feeling guilty every time she saw Pei Jingter on. No matter how she thought about it, she felt the child couldn''t possibly be his, and instead felt guilty towards him.


    It wasn''t until many yearster, when the child grew older and looked more and more like his father, that Zhou Nan''s guilt was finally suppressed. Instead, she liked Pei Jing less and less the more she looked at him.


    After all, Zhou Granny had been a midwife her whole life. Zhou Nan hadplete trust in her judgment about the size of a pregnant belly. There was no way she could be wrong.


    Of course, Zhou Granny could discern it, and An ZhiXian''s eyes weren''t blind either.


    At that time, doctors were quite versatile, often being transferred between departments, especially with the shortage of talent. Although he wasn''t in obstetrics and gynecology, he had basic knowledge.


    Thus, after sending ZhiXia back to her room, Pei Jing was called out by An ZhiXian to talk.


    He was emotionally detached, not prone to over-expressing like his fourth brother. But that didn''t mean he would let others bully his younger sister.


    Unlike what Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan spected, Pei Jing was unlikely to be someone Grandpa had arranged to take responsibility. An ZhiXian had never considered that possibility.


    They were all men. He understood this much. Pei Jing had been arrogant since childhood too. How could he possibly be someone else''s fallback guy?

 Chapter 137: Instructions

    <h4>Chapter 137</h4>


    An ZhiXian and Pei Jing were just outside the door and hadn''t gone far. He rarely smoked, but at this moment, facing this former elder who was now his brother-inw, he still wanted to smoke a cigarette to calm his mood.


    Who knew that as soon as he took out the cigarette case, Pei Jing said, "Smoke away from me. Pregnant women can''t smell smoke, you know."


    An ZhiXian''s hand reaching for the cigarette paused. He resignedly put it back.


    "No wonder I haven''t seen you touch one these days. You''re quite self-aware," An ZhiXian said to him, "Uncle, do you mind telling me what exactly is going on between you and ZhiXia?"


    An ZhiXian''s switch back to this form of address represented his sincerity.


    Pei Jing smiled. "After spending a few days in the barracks, I thought you''d already asked your big brother."


    This meant their eldest brother definitely knew. "I did ask, but big brother..." he said not to speak ill of others behind their backs, especially his own sister and brother-inw, so he shouldn''t pry too much.


    But people were naturally curious. Knowing only half the truth was sometimes worse than not knowing at all. Not understanding clearly was like a fishbone stuck in his throat, extremely ufortable.


    Also, wasn''t the reason why the grandparents asked the sisters toe over because they were no longer trying to keep it from them? Or to be more precise, they wanted the sisters to see clearly the harm ZhiXia had suffered before. It wasn''t that simple now that she had returned.


    They had specifically asked Granny Zhou toe over to supervise Zhou Nan, so she wouldn''t do anything foolish again.


    Of course, ''they'' didn''t include An ZhiXian. But who could have predicted that he would be injured and have to stay here for several more days?


    "Brother-inw, this concerns my sister. I still hope I can know the truth myself, rather than finding out one day from others and causing unnecessary misunderstandings. You know I''m very discreet, and I have no need to cover up anything for my family. Isn''t that right?" An ZhiXian said gently, "Besides, you know the fourth brother''s temper. The family doesn''t even dare let him know about you and ZhiXia yet. If you don''t tell me the truth, how can I help conceal it for you?"


    An ZhiAng was the most uncontroble existence in the An family. He had been fierce since he was little, unlike his three older brothers. An ZhiRen and An ZhiXian were bing more and more inconspicuous at home, but he had never suffered at Gao MeiYun''s hands thanks to his ferocity.


    It had been like this since childhood. Whoever dared to discipline him a little on Gao MeiYun''s behalf, he would discipline Gao MeiYun tenfold in return.


    Even when the three older brothers finally united, it was An ZhiAng who had brought them together. This could be seen from the indulgent attitude An ZhiRen and An ZhiXian had towards him.


    This reason seemed quite convincing, leaving Pei Jing apparently with no reason to keep hiding the truth.


    Rather than letting him specte, it was better to just tell him directly.


    "Did your family thoroughly investigate ZhiXia''s experiences before she returned?" Pei Jing asked him. "That Mid-Autumn Festivalst year, also the day she was sold, I was hurrying back to have the family reunion dinner. But halfway there, something happened, and I ended up chasing someone into the mountains. In the dead of night, I ran into her after she had escaped... "


    Of course the An family had investigated, but it had all been done by An JingZhi. At that time, they didn''t seem to have any special feelings towards this sister who was about to return, so they hadn''t asked too many questions.


    In fact, he and his second brother had even discussed privately that no matter what this newly returned sister was like, as long as she didn''t interfere with their lives, she had nothing to do with them.


    Such an attitude was a bit cold, but it was only when the fourth brother had asked them for money for ZhiXia that they became a little curious about this sister. Over time, they realized that having an obedient, well-behaved sister didn''t seem so bad after all.


    If it hadn''t been for Gao MeiYun''s misdeeds in their childhood, ZhiXia would havepletely fulfilled their fantasies of a little sister. But their childhood experiences meant he and his second brother didn''t have many good feelings towards the term "younger sister", and subconsciously were unwilling to invest much emotionally.


    "Uncle doesn''t seem like the kind of person who could be seduced by beauty?" Moreover, at that time, it seemed ZhiXia could not even be described as beautiful, and was even a little ugly.


    But her transformation had also been astonishing. Or rather, her innate good looks were outstanding. In just one short month, she was like a caterpir bing a butterfly, with no visible traces remaining of when she had first returned.


    "She escaped, and had been drugged. When she encountered me, she was already delirious..." Pei Jing didn''t say the rest. After all, being pounced on by a woman wasn''t exactly glorious.


    This was also a nice misunderstanding to let An ZhiXian think that Pei Jing only had to touch her because he was trying to save her.


    After all, they were deep in the mountains with no time to get to a hospital. With that kind of drug, resisting the urge would not have been easy if the dose was too high. It seemed there was only that one solution avable.


    When ZhiXia walked out of the room, she saw that the door of the other room was shut tight, and she could vaguely hear Granny Zhou and Zhou Nan talking inside. Pei Jing and An ZhiXian hadn''te back yet.


    The door of the room opened and Granny Zhou and Zhou Nan came out. Granny Zhou asked her, "ZhiXia, have you discussed with Little Jing how you''ll sleep tonight? Otherwise, let your mother take care of you. Have Little Jing squeeze in with your third brother first."


    These past few nights, Zhou Nan had been taking care of her, though there wasn''t much to take care of, just keeping an eye on her in case anything happened.


    ZhiXia would tell Pei Jing that she couldn''t sleep or felt ufortable, but she wouldn''t say that to Zhou Nan.


    In fact,pared to being with Granny Zhou, ZhiXia felt morefortable with her grandmother.


    Their rtionship was already like this. What had happened could not simply be written off as if it had never existed just by saying sorry once.


    Zhou Nan also noticed ZhiXia''s attitude towards her, but she no longer had the standing or right toin. She could only be concerned about taking good care of her, using the approach of less talk and more action, hoping to mend things as much as possible.


    "No need, Granny. Mom is tired from taking care of me these past few nights. Now that Pei Jing is here, let him do it. And the third brother is injured, it wouldn''t be good to squeeze him." In fact, An ZhiXian''s wounds had already had the stitches removed and he could be careful, so it wasn''t a big problem.


    But Granny Zhou understood there were still unresolved issues in ZhiXia''s heart.


    She could only sigh helplessly and agree to the arrangement.


    But ZhiXia didn''t know if she was overthinking things. She always felt Zhou Nan looked at her strangely, with distress, and seemingly some other indescribable emotions.


    The baby in her belly seemed to be moving around even more vigorously than before, even deforming her stomach.


    ZhiXia mentioned it briefly, then went back to the room to lie down.


    Just after entering the room, she felt a faint pain. She didn''t know if this was a sign of impendingbor, so she endured it for a while.


    She knew there would bebor pains when giving birth soon, and this wave of painsted about 1-2 minutes before stopping. She waited a while but there was no more pain.


    When Pei Jingy down aftering back, ZhiXia, who hadn''t seen him for days, immediately snuggled up to him.


    He skillfully ced his hand on her belly to greet the child, and discovered her stomach was distorted at a strange angle.

 Chapter 138: Two Little Cuties

    <h4>Chapter 138</h4>


    Immediately after, a sudden violent pain distorted ZhiXia''s expression for a moment.


    Pei Jing hurriedly sat up, "What''s the matter? Is it time to give birth?"


    "My stomach hurts." This could already be seen from her facial expression.


    "An ZhiXian, ZhiXia is going intobor, hurry and grab the stuff." Pei Jing hurriedly picked her up and rushed out the door.


    The rented cart had already been prepared in the courtyard. Upon hearing Pei Jing''s words, An ZhiXian had already spread a nket on it. Pei Jing carried her out and ced her on the cart, then pushed it out.


    Behind them, Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan brought the pre-packed childbirth supplies at the fastest speed, closely following the three.


    They had been preparing for this period, so although the speed was fast, there was no panic at all, and nothing was missing that should have been brought.


    The hospital was not far, Pei Jing ran all the way, and arrived in ten minutes. By the time she was carried down, this wave of contractions had passed.


    Not many people came to the hospital to give birth at thiste hour.


    She had just been carried into the delivery room when more intense pain hit, making her involuntarily let out a soft moan.


    When she was examined, everyone was kicked out. She was nearly delirious from the pain, and could only hear the midwife telling her to breathe with her rhythm and not push too hard.


    ZhiXia had some knowledge about this, and knew that pushing too hard could easily cause tearing, so she was extremely careful.


    Outside the delivery room, Zhou Nan and Zhou Granny anxiously waited with the baby''s swaddling clothes already taken inside by the nurse.


    Pei Jing''s bare arms were wet halfway, drenched by amniotic fluid when he carried ZhiXia in.


    An ZhiXian told him to go clean up, and he finally reacted.


    Although it was her first birth, the baby came very quickly. By the time Pei Jing came back from the bathroom and waited another two hours or so, the baby''s cries came from inside.


    After a while longer, the nurse finally opened the door, "Family of An ZhiXia, the baby is born, it''s twins, the bigger one is the brother, the smaller is the sister. The mother is a little weak, is there a female family member toe help her get dressed?"


    "That''s us."


    Zhou Granny pulled Zhou Nan in, while Pei Jing wanted to go in but was stopped by the nurse, "Are you nning to go home to recuperate, or let the mother rest in the ward first?"


    "Rest in the ward first." Although it wasn''t far, going back now would be a hassle, it was better to let her rest well here and go back tomorrow.


    By the time Pei Jing could go in, ZhiXia had already passed out from exhaustion. The two babies were bundled and ced to the side.


    He went to take a look, then carried ZhiXia to the arranged ward. The two babies were held by Zhou Nan and Zhou Granny respectively, and the rest of the things were handed to An ZhiXian.


    The ward had two beds, but the other one was unupied.


    After cing ZhiXia on the hospital bed and covering her with a nket, Pei Jing finally had time to look at the babies.


    Zhou Granny''s eyes were full of joy, "I''ve been a midwife my whole life, but this really is the first time I''ve seen such beautiful newborns. Just look at those eyebrows, that nose, those little lips, that translucent smooth skin, so good looking..."


    As Zhou Nan looked at the twin sister, she couldn''t help but think of when she had just given birth to her fourth son ZhiXia.


    She had wanted to dote more on the little girl, the only daughter out of her previous four sons, yet she hadn''t expected...


    Oh well, no point thinking about those days gone by.


    Zhou Nan held the little girl in her arms, utterly reluctant to let go.


    The two babies were skinny and the girl chubbier, but clearly, they didn''t look premature at all.


    Pei Jing, a grown man, also couldn''t help but soften as he looked at them. He tentatively poked the brother''s face with a finger.


    The little guy opened his mouth, showing a face that said he was disturbed and wanted to cry, but didn''t cry out before puckering his mouth again to go back to sleep.


    Seeing his silly first-time dad manner, Zhou Nan wanted to hand over the baby girl in her arms to him, "Little Jing, hold your daughter."


    Pei Jing looked but didn''t dare reach out.


    The little one wrapped in the yellow baby nket looked like a caterpir, with just her head poking out, barely the size of half his palm. He felt she was as fragile as a newborn kitten.


    "Support her with both hands, it''s fine." Zhou Nan put the baby in his hands and adjusted his posture.


    Pei Jing''s whole body was stiff, not daring to move at all.


    An ZhiXian watched, highly amused, and also called out to Zhou Granny, "Granny, let me hold my little nephew too."


    "Be extra careful if I let you, look at you two clumsy oafs." Zhou Granny said impatiently.


    An ZhiXian had never taken care of a child either, where would he know how.


    Pei Jing was a bit clumsy, but still managed to get the milk into the baby''s mouth.


    An ZhiXian happened to see ZhiXia waking up, and urged Pei Jing, "Stop feeding first, the little sister''s awake, let the baby suckle some colostrum first."


    In the time he said that, Zhou Granny had also returned from the bathroom. She quickly asked about ZhiXia''s condition.


    Hearing that she was cold, Zhou Granny added another nket before chasing An ZhiXian out.


    ZhiXia opened her eyes, too weak to even lift her arms. Luckily Pei Jing had even bathed her, so there was nothing to be shy about, and she simply let him attend to her.


    Zhou Nan went back to cook some porridge, afraid she couldn''t eat much, at least she''d feel better after drinking it all.


    It wasn''t convenient to keep so many people at the hospital, so Pei Jing let the three of them take the babies back first while he stayed to take care of ZhiXia alone.


    He didn''t dare say it in front of Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan, but privately, Pei Jing pulled An ZhiXian aside and told him to watch the babies closely - someone had to be by the babies'' side at all times, even at home.


    After all, Pei Jing didn''t want a repeat of the muddled incident where ZhiXia had gone missing.


    An ZhiXian understood what he meant, but being more cautious didn''t hurt.


    Sometimes he also wondered, his mother wasn''t very smart, but Granny didn''t seem muddled either, yet they had let someone switch the baby right under their noses back then, so Pei Jing''s extra concern was understandable.


    After everyone left, it quieted down all at once.


    ZhiXia, bundled under two nkets, was still shivering from the cold. Pei Jing held her hand by the bedside, "ZhiXia, you''ve worked hard."


    ZhiXia smiled, "It wasn''t hard work, but I''m so cold right now. Can you hold me and sleep for a while?"


    Pei Jing ran hot, his body warm in the winter. ZhiXia envied that warmth she couldn''t have, so she could only huddle in his embrace.


    "Let me close the door first."


    Pei Jing had just finished speaking when ZhiXia''s expression changed, "I need to use the bathroom."


    Below her was the newspaper padding Zhou Nan had helped put down. With the recent gush, she didn''t know what state it was in now.


    With Pei Jing''s assistance, she went to the bathroom, then changed into an adult diaper before feeling more at ease.


    Indeed, his embrace was warmer than even two nkets.


    And feeling the shivering of the little woman in his arms who couldn''t help trembling, Pei Jing also deeply felt the difficulty of childbirth, and his heart ached for her even more.

 Chapter 139: Children are Better at Home

    Wanqing was moving around restlessly in Pei Jing''s arms, waking him up. He opened his eyes, his just woken up voice a little hoarse and low, "What''s wrong? Do you need to go to the bathroom?"


    Wanqing nodded, she had to go really badly, she could feel it.


    "I think I can walk, you just need to support me. It would be awkward since it''s so crowded here." The hospital was always busy, being too intimate would be embarrassing.


    "It''s no problem, I can carry you." Pei Jing said.


    After Wanqing used the bathroom shey in bed waiting for him to go pay the bill before they went home together.


    As soon as they entered the yard, the smell of rice wafted out.


    Zhou Granny came out from the kitchen, surprised to see them back so early. "You two are up so early, I thought you wouldn''t be back until noon. I was about to ask your third brother to bring you breakfast!"


    "Couldn''t sleep, so we came back." Wanqing was worried about the two kids.


    She had fallen asleep right after giving birth yesterday. She had only caught a glimpse of them when she woke up to breastfeed. She was so weak and groggy that she didn''t have the energy to get a good look at them. She still didn''t know what her babies looked like.


    "Hurry and lie down then. The two babies are with their uncle, your mom left before dawn to line up at the supply and marketing cooperative, still hasn''te back yet. Don''t know if she''ll get any pig''s feet..." Zhou Granny chatted while Pei Jing carried Wanqing into the room.


    An ZhiXian was in the room keeping an eye on the babies, he had lined them up on the bed and couldn''t take his eyes off them.


    Especially the baby girl next to him, he kept wanting to reach out and poke her. Usually so aloof, now he was acting as mischievous as a child.


    He had booked tickets for tomorrow, but now he suddenly didn''t want to leave. What if he couldn''t bear to go?


    When Pei Jing carried Wanqing in, he saw An ZhiXian''s silly grin and thought "cute" described little uncle three for the first time.


    "Stop staring and make some room." Pei Jing looked disdainfully at this uncle inw, he hadn''t even noticed theme in.


    An ZhiXian quickly moved aside for Pei Jing to put Wanqing on the bed, then resumed his usual aloofness.


    Wanqing smiled, she suddenly found this third uncle quite interesting. But first she turned her attention to the two babies.


    She didn''t know if it was because they were her own, but she used to think newborns were wrinkly and ugly. But the two in front of her now were so fair, pink and soft, she thought they were beautiful.


    "Which one is the boy and which is the girl?" Wanqing vaguely remembered the nurse telling her after they were born, but she had been too tired to remember.


    Beating Pei Jing to it, An ZhiXian squeezed over. "The chubby one is your sister, the slightly thinner one is your brother, though he''s not that thin either, 4.6 pounds. Your sister is 5.2 pounds."


    From bringing them home yesterday until now, he, his mother and granny hadn''t slept a wink, he had insisted on feeding the babies. The two soft little ones had nestled into his heart.


    Suddenly, he didn''t really want to go back to Jincheng anymore.


    Wanqing stroked the babies'' faces, their skin was so smooth and soft. She heard An ZhiXian say, "Little sister, third brother couldn''t sleepst night and thought of names for the babies, do you want to hear them?"


    Pei Jing suddenly felt displeased. "No need to trouble you, we''ve already decided on names."


    Since they didn''t know if they were having a boy or girl, they had prepared two of each, plenty to use.


    "So what if you''ve decided, nothing''s set in stone yet. Mine might be better, I''m their uncle you know, mother''s brothers have priority. What''s wrong with helping pick names?"


    "No means no." Pei Jing didn''t indulge him. "If you want to pick names, find your own wife and have your own kids, call them whatever you want. I decide my son''s name."


    "You decide your son, I don''t care. But my niece''s name must be picked by me." An ZhiXian refused to back down.


    After half a day of arguing, they each got their way with one child. Wanqing chose from the names they had thought of. Their son ChenYe was named by Pei Jing, daughter Wanqing by her third uncle.


    The two babies were too young to know anything, but their dad and uncle had already split naming rights between themselves.


    Extremely satisfied, An ZhiXian decided to give the family of four some private time. He went to go check if lunch was ready.


    Outside, Zhou Nan had just returned and overheard their squabbling indoors. She looked at An ZhiXian impatiently, "You little punk, didn''t even ask your sister''s opinion. They had agreed on names as a couple and you just had to butt in, what for?"


    "Little sister didn''t object, you stay out of it." An ZhiXian had never liked how the fourth child was always showing off her closeness with Wanqing.


    While the other three brothers were away, he couldn''t even get dibs on a name, howme.


    "Granny, is the porridge done?"


    "Yes, yes, dishing it out now for Wanqing to eat first."


    When An ZhiXian brought the porridge into the room, Zhou Granny said to Zhou Nan, "It''s not necessarily bad for the kids to bicker a little, it can bring them closer instead. Don''t meddle in this, by the way, did you get the pig''s feet?"


    Zhou Nan sighed, "No pig''s feet, too popr. Just got a pork elbow. But on the way back I saw someone with two carp, traded for them, they''re in the water bucket now."


    Zhou Granny red at her. "You''re too bold, what if something happens?"


    Trading privately like this was the same as an underground deal, they''d be criticized if caught.


    "There was no other way, this small town is worse than our vige. I went before dawn but still didn''t get anything. At least we have the elbow and two fish tost a few days." Zhou Nan felt uneasy but anxious too.


    Her daughter wasn''t close to her. Granny had specifically brought her own mother this time to keep an eye on her, iming she was an expert in childbirth. But really it was to improve rtions between mother and daughter. She wanted to get closer to her daughter too, but didn''t know how.N��ww ??hapters will be fully updated at (n)ov(??)l/bin(.


    She was trying her best to make amends. If it still didn''t work, she didn''t know what else she could do.


    After eating, Wanqing felt some fullness and engorgement in her chest. Granny said her milk wasing in, to nurse the babies more frequently. She massaged Wanqing''s breasts to stimte milk letdown, painful and embarrassing.


    At noon, Zhou Granny called Pei Jing out. "Little Jing, we''ve rented this ce, but some people are quite particr about confinement practices. Should we give thendlord a red packet as a wedding gift and to dispel inauspiciousness?"


    Partly as a celebration, and to avoid them taking offense.


    "How much does Granny think is appropriate?" Pei Jing didn''t know about this stuff and could only ask the elder.

 Chapter 140: Choose to Stay Away

    <h4>Chapter 140</h4>


    "I think that malendlord is quite polite. I reckon that if it''s someone you know, giving them 60 cents is fine, but if you haven''t interacted with them before, giving them 20 cents is eptable too, just as a token." Wu Lei said.


    In fact, not giving anything is also fine since the rent has already been paid. But since they''ve added two kids to the family, it''s good to give them some happiness.


    "Alright, I''ll just listen to grandma and go get it done." Pei Jing said.


    Pei Jing prepared a 60 cent red envelope and also brought two eggs to the neighbor''s ce.


    Zhang Lin opened the door. In the middle of the day, her hair was still a bit messy,nguidly as if she had just woken up from a nap.


    Pei Jing didn''t dare look improperly. He said a couple polite words, then handed over the red envelope, "Sister-inw, we''ve just had dragon and phoenix twins added to our family. I''m bringing you some happiness."


    Zhang Lin looked over Pei Jing''s appearance, knowing that the man before her was a soldier. But today he wasn''t wearing his uniform,cking that solemn dignity, instead appearing even more handsome.


    Compared to the gentle and refined Xiao Xian, Zhang Lin was a shy and charming beauty. Looking at the tall and handsome man before her, thenparing to her own ugly partner, she inevitably felt a bit unhappy.


    She wasn''t any worse than that little girl who looked like she hadn''t fully grown up. Why did she end up with such a huge difference in her partner!


    The corner of her eye raised, and Zhang Lin reached out to take the eggs and red envelope. But the tone of her voice was like a fishhook, "Then thank you, big brother. My husband Wu Lei isn''t home, otherwise you coulde in and sit for a bit, have some tea, and wait for him toe back to chat for a couple words?"


    Her fair hand didn''t open to wait for Pei Jing to hand it over, instead taking the initiative to reach out.


    Her skin made deliberate contact, her fingers even scratched his palm a bit, making Pei Jing feel a hint of disgust.


    "No need. With Wu not home I wouldn''t feel right going in. Sister-inw, take care of yourself. I''m going back first." Pei Jing withdrew his hand lightning fast. Just having added a pair of children was a time of joy, but now his heart felt like there were flies buzzing around, nauseous.


    Pei Jing''sck of manners made Zhang Lin''s face alternate between green and white. She retreated back and mmed the door closed. The eggs in her hand were also tossed onto the ground.


    Opening the red envelope and looking at the 60 cents inside, deliberately organized as three 20 cent bills, Zhang Lin disgustedly fished them out and put them in her pocket.


    He didn''t look poor, yet was so stingy. Just having twins and he gave 60 cents.


    When Wu Lei got off work and returned, he saw Zhang Lin''s cold expression scolding the children.


    He sighed helplessly, suppressing the irritation in his heart. "If you have something to say, say it properly. Seeing you huffing and puffing like this, you''re going to scare the children silly."


    "Stupid like you, five or six already and about to start school, but can''t even calcte addition and subtraction within 20 clearly." Zhang Lin said disdainfully.


    Afraid they would argue again, Wu Lei didn''t dare say thatpared to Zhang Lin''s intelligence, even an idiot could tell who was smarter.


    Afterforting his wife and child, he took out the food from his lunchbox andid it out neatly before calling them over to eat. "Oh right, I heard this morning when I left that the neighbor had dragon and phoenix twins. Brother Pei really has great fortune. You go to the supply and marketing cooperative this afternoon to buy some eggs. When I get off work tonight we''ll go over together to take a look."


    "No going. Stingily pathetic. Why should we give them eggs?" As soon as Zhang Lin said this, Wu Lei could tell something was off.


    From his interactions with Brother Pei''s family, in this day and age, someone willing to share their food with strangers couldn''t possibly be stingy.


    "Just now he came over to give a red envelope. For twins he only gave 60 cents. If our family had twins renting from them, I''d give at least $2." Zhang Lin grimaced. "Also your Brother Pei, I saw he didn''t treat you as a brother at all. Using giving the red envelope and eggs as an excuse, his fingers even touched my hand. Who knows what he was thinking..."


    "Don''t have pipe dreams. His wife is pretty, young, and gentle..." He looked at Zhang Lin, not even daring to say it, only realizing after the fact that he had been blind, only looking at her face back then.


    Zhang Lin immediately scowled and threw down her chopsticks. "So what if she''s young and pretty? She''s got a big belly and her man''s been away for months. Who knows what ideas he has! No, Wu Lei. You praising another man''s wife like this, I see you''ve got a wandering eye. You''ve taken a liking to her right?"


    "Ancestors, I beg you, can you stop being unreasonable? Given my age, people politely call me brother. I could be a few years older and be called uncle!" He didn''t even dare raise his voice. If the neighbors heard, how awkward would that be.


    Wu Lei was in his 30s, Zhang Lin 25 or 26. Outsiders envied him for marrying a young and pretty wife, but the suffering in his heart, only those who experienced it understood.


    This f*cked up life, if it wasn''t for considerations about his future and son, he really wanted to abandon his wife and child. He just couldn''t bear it anymore.


    Wu Lei''s regret was truly from the heart. Over these years, if not for this woman stirring up trouble and not listening to advice, dragging him back, he wouldn''t just be a factory supervisor. With his abilities, he could have even taken the factory director position.


    Marrying the wrong wife ruined three generations. He had learned a profound lesson.


    After Pei Jing finished delivering everything, he kept frowning.


    Xiao Xian''s thoughts were all on the children, and didn''t notice.


    After dinner, Wu Lei brought his son over, carrying a bag of eggs and half a pound of brown sugar, also quite generous gifts.


    As a grown man he wouldn''t feel proper entering the room, so he urged Pei Jing, "Brother Pei, hurry and bring out your dragon and phoenix twins for me to admire. It''d be great to let me broaden my horizons."


    Since Wu Lei said it this way, Pei Jing also didn''t feel good rejecting him. But he didn''t expect that Wu Lei would take out a dor for each child as a meeting gift, refusing to let him decline.


    "Comrade Wu, you''re too polite. The children are still small and can''t use money yet." Pei Jing frowned.


    "Then save it for when they grow up." Wu Lei''s heart thudded. He recalled what Zhang Lin had said about Pei Jing speaking ill of him.


    They were all perceptive people. Having gotten along these past few days, with Pei Jing even calling him Brother Wu, but now suddenly changing to Comrade Wu again, it inevitably made one think further.


    "Brother Pei, you also know my job. If you really feel bad, have Sister Xiao Xian help out to experiment with some new varieties. It''d be mutually beneficial for all of us."


    "Comrade Wu, as you can see, we''ve just added two children to the family. She won''t have time to work on anything else, so I''m afraid she''ll have to disappoint you."


    If it was before today, he would have only thought about finding a way to make up for it somewhere else. But Zhang Lin''s bold actions today left him very annoyed, also re-examining his view of his friend Wu Lei.


    Wu Lei was not bad, his conduct made people feelfortable. But Pei Jing didn''t arrogantly believe this newly acquainted friend could supersede family.


    So Pei Jing didn''t even mention Zhang Lin''s actions. He didn''t want to get involved in others'' family matters, but also felt Wu Lei might not believe him, and could even think he had impure motives.


    But because of Zhang Lin, Pei Jing also didn''t want to interact too closely with Wu Lei anymore. Running into this unlucky situation, it wouldn''t look good for anyone if spoken about, so he could only choose to keep a respectful distance.

 Chapter 141: Beginning to Doubt

    <h4>Chapter 141</h4>


    When Pei Jing''s indifference was noticed, Wu Lei was confused about how his wife had offended him, so his originally good mood was also disrupted.


    "Brother Pei, then I won''t bother you anymore, I''ll just go back first." No matter if he couldn''t make a profit elsewhere, Pei Jing was still a person of status, and Wu Lei had always held an attitude of making friends instead of making enemies whenever possible regarding people and events.


    Pei Jing sent him out the door beforeing back in.


    The two little ones had just been fed, and when they saw his contemtive expression, Zhi Xia asked him, "What''s wrong?"


    The conversation between the two men had just happened at the door, so Zhi Xia had heard some of it, and she could clearly sense that it was different from usual.


    Pei Jing sighed and reluctantly recounted what had happened when he went to deliver red envelopes at noon today.


    Although it is impolite to talk behind someone''s back, hiding things like this from his wife could easily lead to unnecessary troubles, especially if that neighbor woman had any malicious intentions.


    Zhi Xia was a little angry. Her man had been touched by someone else, even if it was just his hand.


    She sullenly pulled his hand. "Where did she touch you?"


    That dissatisfied look was like a child who had candy snatched away, which was very cute.


    Pei Jing rubbed her head and smiled, "I washed my hands as soon as I got home, washed them several times."


    Only then did Zhi Xia cheer up, but she still felt a little awkward about his actions. "Don''t rub my head anymore in the future. I sweated all over giving birth to the child, and I can''t even take a bath or wash my hair. Just one day and I feel like I stink, I don''t know how I''ll get through this month."


    "You don''t stink at all, Zhi Xia still smells good." Pei Jing felt like he was telling the truth. Since they met, Zhi Xia always had a subtle scent about her that never disappeared. Now there was also a milky smell because she was nursing, simr to the baby''s.


    Although not stewed pork trotters soup, pork elbow soup was still good.


    But after eating two pieces at noon and having it again for dinner, it felt too greasy.


    Zhi Xia shooed Pei Jing, who was staring at her eating, out of the room. She then threw the meat and soup from her bowl into her interspatial ring, and asked the genius doctor for a postpartum meal set.


    Looking at the bnced mix of vegetables and meat in front of her, as well as a small bowl of supreme bird''s nest porridge, Zhi Xia was quite envious.


    Look, this is how people should live!


    As a favored imperial concubine, she and her husband had twenty-eight dishes per meal, some dishes were purely ornamental. She could ask for whatever she wanted to eat anytime, and didn''t need to do anything herself.


    With a friend like this, Zhi Xia could asionally enjoy such treatment, as long as she avoided people.


    After eating, she also ate a snow crystal fruit.


    Previously when eating this fruit she only felt it was delicious, but after giving birth, eating it gave her body a warm feeling, especially in the abdomen, and she didn''t feel as ufortable. It had a restorative effect.


    In her opinion, it would be best if she didn''t need anyone to look after her during the confinement month.


    But she couldn''t say these words, nor could she exin.


    Sitting the confinement on the first day, being surrounded by people did not feel good at all, and was not as convenient as being home alone.


    When Pei Jing came back, there was only an empty bowl left on the table, not to mention bones, not even a speck was left.


    Pei Jing''s expression wasplex. "You ate it so clean? Are you full? There''s still porridge in the pot, do you want to drink some more?"


    Zhi Xia quickly shook her head. "No more. After a whole bowl of meat soup, I''m stuffed. By the way, tell your mother tomorrow not to make meat dishes. I want to eat something light. This is too greasy."


    Pei Jing nodded, but did not hurry out. Instead, he sat down on the edge of the bed.


    The sudden kiss left Zhi Xia somewhat stunned, and it took her a while to respond.


    Because of her big belly, the number of times the two had been intimate was actually not many, and it stopped directly in theter stages of pregnancy.


    Sometimes she could also sense his urges, but Pei Jing was a man with strong self-control. Zhi Xia wanted to help him but didn''t dare let him know too much, so it had always been vague, with asional small intimacies.


    But such an unprompted deep kiss still left Zhi Xia a little confused.


    Pei Jing was still very calm. Even though he didn''t taste any meat vor in her mouth, but rather a light sweetness, simr to fruit, his expression didn''t show the slightest change.


    "Sleep for a while, I''ll take the bowls out. Since you don''t want to eat meat then you won''t eat it. We''ll eat what''s left." Pei Jing soothed her.


    Zhi Xia nodded and watched him leave.


    When Wu Lei returned home, the anger on his face was clearly out of control. He grabbed Zhang Lin and asked, "Tell me the truth, what exactly happened between you and Brother Pei at noon?"


    Perhaps used to throwing tantrums, Zhang Lin didn''t even have the slightest embarrassment. "What happened? Wu Lei, you''re just a coward, a pathetic turtle, someone took advantage of your wife, and you''re not angry at all. You still went with a smile to please others. Yet youe back and get mad at me. Are you still a man? Do you have any guts..."


    With a torrent of scolding, Wu Lei was not the kind to indulge her. The two immediately got into a scuffle.


    After all, a woman was no match for a man''s strength. Zhang Lin charged into the room with disheveled hair, yelling, "You bastard, fucking beast, if you have the ability, kill me today. If you can''t kill me, we''re not finished..."


    ...


    Hearing the curses and a child''s cries from next door, Granny Zhou was somewhat embarrassed. "It seems like they''re fighting next door. Should we go over to stop them?"


    After all, they were living in someone else''s house. It didn''t seem right to pretend not to hear, but that femalendlord didn''t seem like someone easy to deal with, and she was afraid of causing trouble if she went over.


    "It wouldn''t look good for Comrade Wu if we went over, let''s pretend we didn''t know." Pei Jing said.


    An ZhiXian quietly nudged him, "So cold, could they have broken up?"


    He had heard that Pei Jing and Zhi Xia knew thendlord, which was how they managed to rent this house.


    "Since you have the leisure to mind other people''s business, it looks like your injury has recoveredpletely. Did you buy your ticket? Can you leave tomorrow?" Pei Jing really wanted to get rid of him.


    An ZhiXian pouted and ignored him.


    He was leaving tomorrow, so he should take this opportunity to look at his grandnephew and grandniece more while he could. At least it pleased his heart, they were cute.


    The noisy quarreling next doorsted for more than half an hour before ending with Wu Lei leaving home.


    Just when they thought it would quiet down, Zhang Lin didn''t seem to want to give up. She ran to the front door to cast aspersions, saying someone was alienating the affection between them as husband and wife, attracting a crowd of onlookers.


    When Zhou Nan went out in the morning and came back, she had an ugly expression on her face.


    Just after she went out, someone said to her that one shouldn''t be too excessive, housing was hard to rent now, and they only rented to them because they were friends. But no matter what, they shouldn''t have tried to alienate the couple, causing them to fight.


    Hearing what Zhou Nan said when she came back, this Zhang Lin really had first ss skills in twisting right and wrong.


    Zhi Xia''s health had also improved a lot. She had originally nned to go back in a couple days, but didn''t expect such things to happen in just a few days.

 Chapter 142: One Step Too Late

    <h4>Chapter 142</h4>


    Zhang Lin is obviously an unreasonable and pestering person who is difficult to deal with. Xiao knew that she should not take advantage of him, so she decided to use the remaining half month''s rent to offset the two dors Wu Lei gave to the child as a gift when they met.


    Wu Lei also did not expect that he tried his best to please Zhang Lin. He hid in the factory for a night without going home, but Zhang Lin thoroughly offended the person he was trying to please, forcing her to leave with her postpartum body instead of resting for a few more days.


    In fact, the reason why Pei Jing endured Zhang Lin was also to give Wu Lei face. After all, Wu Lei himself was not a bad person.


    It can only be said that life makes fun of people. With such a wife, I''m afraid many originally good friends in life will choose to draw a clear line.


    Pei Jing sent An ZhiXian to the train station. Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan had already started packing. By the time he came back, An Zhiqing had already borrowed a car from the army to pick them up specially.


    Someone was holding the child. On the way, Xiao fell asleep leaning on Pei Jing''s arms. When she woke up from her sleep, she was already in her own soft bed.


    There was no one in the room, and there were sounds of ying with childrening from outside, both adults and children, and it sounded like there were quite a few people.


    An Zhiqing came in from the door and quietly closed the door again, "They are all sisters-inw from the neighborhood who came to see you and your children. My mother told them that you were sleeping, so she took the children out for them to see. Don''t make a sound for now, otherwise they will alle inter and disturb you with the noisy chatter."


    Xiao nodded, "I know, thank you for picking us up today, brother."


    "Don''t talk about trouble between us siblings." An Zhiqing was dissatisfied that Xiao was so polite to him. He casually asked, "By the way, have you chosen names for the children?"


    "Yes, Pei Jing and third brother each picked one. My brother is called Pei ChenYe, and my sister is Pei Wanqing." Thinking of their arguing over the names, Xiao still felt that it was rare to see Pei Jing being so childish.


    "It''s...nice sounding." An Zhiqing, who had wanted to show off the name he had thought about for a long time, silently swallowed it back. He waste, so he could only prepare to leave it for his own children in the future.


    After the crowd outside dispersed, Xiao went out to the bathroom and saw that the table in the living room was full of eggs and brown sugar, bag by bag. Pei Jing wrote down who sent them in a small notebook so that he could return the favor when there was a chance in the future.


    Some who were closer also gave meeting gifts to the children, not much, just two cents, but it was the thought that counts, so everything had to be recorded.


    The bathroom was far away. Xiao thought that at most she woulde out symbolically once a day, and solve everything else by herself hiding in her space, which was clean, hygienic, and didn''t require going out the door. How nice.


    On her way back, she happened to run into Shen Hongxing carrying a bag of eggs, "Xiao, I heard that you gave birth to twins, congrattions! I brought you some eggs and brown sugar, don''t look down on it."


    Shen Hongxing looked very different, her round big face had be much thinner, and herplexion was also very pale, as if shecked vitality, her features were also much softer than before, and her voice was no longer sharp and unpleasant. Apart from previous impressions, her current feelings seemed quite good.


    Seeing that Xiao didn''t speak, her face turned paler, "I was wrong before, I know that now. Xiao, the troubles I caused you in the past, and those unkind words, I apologize to you here. I don''t expect you to definitely forgive me. I also heard from Cui that you and Sister Fengxia took good care of several children for half a year when I was not there. I just want to thank you."


    She walked closer and handed over what was in her hand, and didn''t dare to say anything about going in to see the children.


    Xiao smiled frankly and reached out to take the stuff, "Then thank Sister Shen Hongxing. I''m not feeling well so I can''t entertain you. I''ll invite you toe and y after I get better."


    "No need, no need. If you don''t despise me, just call me Sister Hongxing."


    From these words, Xiao could tell that although she was living here, she probably hadn''t remarried Yang Jun yet.


    She had always heard people say that Shen Hongxing used to be good, and was praised by everyone in the army. It was only in the past two years that she suddenly changed her temperament and appearance, and became gossipy and petty.


    She hadn''t seen the change with her own eyes, so she always didn''t quite believe it.


    She just thought that while the system could absorb people''s luck, if one didn''t have that idea in their heart, could the system really make a person''s personality and appearance undergo a thorough andplete change?


    Seeing Shen Hongxing today, she believed it.


    If she hadn''t experienced it personally, who could distinguish that the current Shen Hongxing, with gentleness and regret in her brows and eyes, would be the same sharp Shen Hongxing of the past?


    Shen Hongmei did not change for the better like Shen Hongxing. Shen Hongmei did indeed develop in a bad direction.


    All her talents and abilities were given by the system. Without the system, she gradually returned to her original form. Even her appearance was no longer as beautiful, just ordinary. If it weren''t for those moments of glory left behind when she had the system, she would have been driven out of the cultural troupe long ago just based on who she is now.


    Shen Hongmei dide looking for Xiao more than once, but Xiao couldn''t help her either, nor did she have the ability to give her what she wanted.


    After all, she herself was just a housewife without a job at the moment.


    At night in the city, it was Pei Jing who took care of Xiao. Back at home, of course he would continue to take care of her. Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan lived in another room prepared for them long ago.


    Xiao was quite rxed. Except for breastfeeding which required her, the three of them covered everything else. Even when she held the child for a while, Zhou Granny wouldn''t allow it, saying that holding the child too much during the month hurts the arms. There''s no feeling now, but when she gets old she''ll regret it.


    Also, children held too much go wild in bed and can''t lie still. When she and Zhou Nan leave and there''s no one to help her with the children, it won''t be easy for her to raise two children alone.


    Xiao disagreed with this.


    It was true that children raised in their parents'' arms had difficulty lying still in bed, but at the same time, children who yed more seemed smarter. Children who justy there without even going out the door looked dumb and slow, and werete to be sensible.


    The half month passed quickly. Pei Jing also started returning to the barracks, but woulde back whenever he had time.


    Zhou Granny felt that Xiao was the easiest to serve during her confinement month. She wasn''t picky about food, and would eat whatever was made without asking if there was anything she wanted to eat.


    But only Xiao herself knew that she was not easy to serve at all.


    She wasn''t picky about food because few of those things actually made it to her mouth. She ate Sister Shenyi''s postpartum meals every day, plus the magically effective beast world fruits.


    After a month, her height was fixed at 165 cm, her weight at 103 pounds. Her body had a little flesh but small bones, so she looked very thin when dressed. The loose belly skin also tightened up and was extremely perfect.

 Chapter 143: Is There Still a Chance

    <h4>Chapter 143</h4>


    On the night of the full moon, Pei Jing boiled arge pot of water and carried it to the bathroom, asking her, "Do you want me to scrub your back?"


    "No need, go out quickly. Granny willugh at us if she sees this in broad daylight. I can wash myself," Zhi Xia said.


    "Now you''re shy. You weren''t when you had a big belly and I had to wait on you," Pei Jing muttered before turning to leave.


    Zhi Xia quickly closed the door behind him and went into her private dimension.


    Even with a bathroom, it wasn''t asfortable as soaking in her dimension.


    She had already filled the tub with water and added milk bath and rose petals beforeing in.


    After soaking for half an hour, she scrubbed herself for another full half hour. She washed her hair, which had grown to her chest, several times before she was satisfied. After not bathing or washing her hair for a whole month, she could scrub the dirt off her body.


    She had no choice. The family dimension was small. With several peopleing and going all day, even washing her face could be noticed, let alone secretly bathing.


    It was different when it was just her and Pei Jing at home. He was at the military during the day. She could secretly bathe in her dimension and he would assume she had washed with heated water during the day.


    When she emerged from the dimension, her whole body felt much lighter. She wrapped her hair in a towel before leaving the bathroom.


    People ustomed to living in the south were very ufortable in the north. Their heads froze in the winter and roasted in the summer. Just the short walk from the bathroom to the house made her feel like the skin on the back of her neck would peel off.


    Mats wereid on the floor just inside the door, with small nkets on top. Pei Jing sat next to the two little ones lying on the mats and fanned them, starting from their feet and fanning gently without tiring.


    Zhi Xia said, "Don''t spoil them too much, or when Granny and Mother leave, you won''t be home during the day and I won''t be able to keep fanning them like this."


    "You won''t need to fan them every day. I''ve ordered an electric fan which should arrive in a few days. Just bear with it for now," Pei Jing said gently, still fanning. "It''s not spoiling them. The weather is indeed too hot. I also got two mosquitos. We can modify one of them to cover both of them."


    He gestured with his hands, nning to modify it into onerge cover to envelope both children.


    Mosquitoes had appeared. They had to catch them for a long time every night before bed. Despite that, several bumps still appeared on the little ones, worrying the novice parents.


    Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan returned from outside with baskets hanging from their arms full of ingredients, including vegetables and meat.


    Vegetables like cucumbers and eggnts nted on the vacantnd on either side of the door had ripened. The peppers and tomatoes weren''t ready to eat yet. With proper care, they could eat vegetables from it continuously until autumn, drying any excess to preserve it.


    Today was the twins'' one month celebration. Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan would leave tomorrow, so the family was holding a feast to celebrate and see them off.


    Even without inviting outsiders, Big Brother and Pei Meng still had toe, so seven people would need to sit around arge table. Fortunately Zhi Xia didn''t need to cook, as Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan had been busy since the afternoon.


    When An Zhiqing arrived, he brought a bottle of wine. The two little ones just ate and slept, surprisingly well behaved and not disturbing the adults'' meal.


    While they gathered happily, the atmosphere next door was frozen.


    Ever since Shen Hongxing came to the military base over a month ago, Yang Jun had been living in the barracks and rarely came home. Even when he dide home during the day, he didn''t stay long - just checking on the children before leaving.


    This showed that he truly wanted to draw a clear line with Shen Hongxing and leave no chance for them to reconcile.


    But Shen Hongxing hadn''t mentioned leaving. They weren''t husband and wife anymore. Their lives couldn''t continue tangled together like this.


    The military leaders had talked to Yang Jun about it several times already. Considering the situationprehensively, they advised him to get back together with Shen Hongxing.


    At this age, being single wasn''t necessarily free. Once people reached a certain age, parents urging marriage aside, leaders at work would also urge it.


    So during the time he was divorced from Shen Hongxing, Yang Jun didn''t have an easy time either. Just the widows introduced to him were numerous. He truly didn''t have the intention to remarry, but couldn''t stop enthusiastic leaders from caring about his family.


    Today, beforeing home, Yang Jun contemted for a long time alone.


    He wasn''t talkative. In the beginning of their rtionship, Shen Hongxing had taken the initiative more.


    When he returned home, Shen Hongxing had just finished making dinner - simple stir-fried cucumber, eggnt, and eggs. It wasn''t sumptuous, but the four childrenughed happily around the dining table, a warmth seldom seen in their home before.


    There was no denying Shen Hongxing had truly changed a lot after the divorce.


    Even her appearance seemed better than before, reviving Yang Jun''s first impression of her. Butpared to back then, she had matured, worn down, and gained a touch of age.


    It was only natural. She had given birth to four children and was in her thirties. How could shepare to her maiden days?


    He had aged a lot toopared to before.


    "You''re home..." Shen Hongxing, who had been tending to the children, saw Yang Jun appear in the doorway. Joy shed through her eyes as she went up to him, "You haven''t eaten yet right? Come eat something quickly. The children have missed you a lot recently too."


    Shen Hongxing was clearly somewhat nervous, afraid Yang Jun would reject her.


    But this time, Yang Jun didn''t refuse as usual. He sat down calmly to eat.


    After the meal, Shen Hongxing happily went to clean up the dishes and utensils, but was stopped by Yang Jun. "Hongxing, let''s talk."


    Yang Jun didn''t give Shen Hongxing a chance to refuse. He told Cui''er to take Yang Dawei and the two younger brothers out to y.


    Yang Dawei still had a nk expression. Each time Shen Hongxing saw him aftering back, she hated that she couldn''t fiercely p herself twice. The two little ones were at an age of being greedy for food and y. When they heard they could go out and y, they ran out faster than anyone.


    Cui''er was ten now. At this age, she vaguely understood many things, especially after her parents divorced and she lost the chance to go to school, hearing gossip from wagging tongues. She had be very sensitive.


    But facing Yang Jun''s dismissive attitude, she still went out.


    Shen Hongxing also put away the smile on her face, sensing theing conversation probably wasn''t what she wanted to hear.


    Sure enough, as soon as Yang Jun spoke, her heart shattered.


    "Hongxing, you''ve been here to see the children for a while already. Staying too long isn''t good either. Auntie Zhou is leaving tomorrow, so I bought you a ticket to travel back with them. It''ll be good to havepany on the road."


    "Dad, can you really not give me another chance?" Shen Hongxing asked hoarsely.

 Chapter 144: That鈥檚 what she thought of him

    <h4>Chapter 144</h4>


    Shen Hongxing turned her head away without saying anything, but her meaning was very clear.


    If it had been in the past, Shen Hongxing would have thrown a tantrum.


    But now, when rationality returned, and she remembered what she had done before, it only made her feel ashamed.


    She originally didn''t have the face toe back, but a divorced woman really had no way to survive in the countryside.


    Shen Hongxing sat on the ground dejectedly, with tears streaming down her face, but she didn''t cry out loud. "I know how excessive I''ve been these past few years. Sometimes when I think about it, I even hate myself to death. But I don''t even know what happened to me and why I suddenly did those things. It''s as if after Da Wei and I divorced, I finally understoodpletely how excessive I had been before. Father Yang Jun, I know I don''t deserve your forgiveness. It was me who harmed Da Wei. But I still hope you can give me another chance. You told me before that no matter if it''s a son or daughter, we should send them to school. If they study well, that''s their way out. Even if they don''t study well, they''ll still be better off than being illiterate. How can you bear to see our Cui''er lose the opportunity to go to school? And Da Wei, he needs someone to take care of him now too. Cui''er is still young after all, and it''s not convenient for her to take care of her brother either. Please let me stay. I promise I will never make trouble again, okay?"


    Yang Jun was moved, but he was afraid that after forgiving Shen Hongxing, she wouldmit those acts again.


    After all, those two years really frightened him.


    And marriage is not child''s y. They had already divorced once. If they got back together again, there would be no chance for another divorce, otherwise they would be aughing stock.


    As for the future, he didn''t want to think about that anymore. If it weren''t for Da Wei''s ident happening so suddenly, he might have already switched careers and returned to his hometown.


    "Hongxing, marriage is not child''s y. You can''t just leave when you want and get back together when you want." Yang Jun said, "I know life is hard in the countryside. You probably haven''t done any farm work for many years. Going back will definitely be an adjustment. But you took quite a bit of money during the divorce. Subsidizing with that, you could still live decently. If it''s not enough, I still have some here..."


    "It''s not because of money. I really have no way to survive there!" What Shen Hongxing regretted most was the money she took during the divorce. She couldn''t even figure out what she was thinking at the time. She clearly knew Da Wei''s brain needed a lot of money for treatment, yet she still fought for money at that time, leaving no reserves for the child.


    Even a tiger wouldn''t eat its cub. Thinking back now, she was worse than a beast.


    "Yang Jun, if you refuse to let me stay, I can only go back and be married off to an old man in the vige, that old shepherd who raises sheep. If that happens, I''d rather die."


    Divorced women had difficult lives in the city, let alone in the countryside. They were even seen as worse than widows.


    After living at home for over six months, there was endless gossip. She had to do all the farm work at home and endure the family''s disdain and public humiliation, as well as the harassment from those old bachelors in the vige.


    Misfortune Vige didn''t have a good reputation. Over the years, dozens of disabled bachelors had umted in the vige. Shen Hongxing''s parents and brothers also had some problems to varying degrees. At this time of Shen Hongxing''s divorce and return, being married off for money was normal.


    Yang Jun didn''t doubt her words. Although he hadn''t gone back for many years, he knew about things happening in the vige.


    In the end, the conversation ended with Yang Jun fleeing in defeat.


    Could he bear to see Shen Hongxing suffer such mistreatment? If he could, he wouldn''t have let her take away half of their savings when they needed money most at home.


    It was because he knew that with money, her days after returning would be a little better. But he didn''t expect that in just over six months, what he was worried about still happened.


    Shen Hongxing didn''t leave, but Zhou Granny and Zhou Nan inevitably couldn''t stay here long.


    Pei Jing brought some things for Zhou Granny. After all, she hade such a long way at her age to take care of him.


    It just so happened that An Zhiqing was on leave to send them home and could stay home for half a month. During summer vacation, his wife Liu Ling woulde stay with their son Wen Qing for a period of time.


    Over the years, this was how the couple spent their time off to visit home. An Zhiqing arranged his home leave during normal times and New Year''s, while Liu Ling brought their son over to the army for the two months of summer vacation.


    On the full moon of the fifteenth day, Pei Jing came back from showering outside, and lifted his hand to pull the curtains closed,pletely blocking off the moonlighting in.


    The bed in the room was not very big to begin with. Now with two children sleeping in the middle, it was like a river separated him and Know Summer.


    Pei Jing got into bed moving all the way inside. Know Summer held him and whispered, "Scoot them in a bit more."


    The impression Pei Jing had of Know Summer was like a clingy little girl. Although she was already a mother of two, she was still young and it was normal for her to be a little delicate.


    He obediently moved the two children inside, letting Know Summer sleep in the middle, as it would be more convenient to nurse at night, while hey on the outside.


    "It''ste, let''s sleep." Pei Jing put his arm around Know Summer''s waist, and his outstretched hand could just measure the width of her waist. It was hard to imagine that such a slender ce had contained two not so slender babies not long ago.


    But Know Summer was not satisfied with his cold attitude. She shifted her body slightly, her fingertips falling right on the protrusion on his chest, and her lips pressed up lightly.


    From the slight touch to aggressive plundering, Pei Jing also changed from passive to active.


    Seeing her naughty little hand bing more and more excessive, Pei Jing helplessly wrapped her hand in his palm, while also stopping her actions. "Know Summer, it''s best to wait 42 days after giving birth before intimacy, until the body has fully recovered, otherwise it will hurt the body."


    Know Summer was embarrassed, making herself seem like a little pervert. "How do you know? Did you ask the doctor?"


    If so, it meant he was not indifferent towards her either.


    "Your third brother warned me before he left." Pei Jing''s answer surprised Know Summer instead.


    "I didn''t know my third brother talks so much. I didn''t see that he minds other people''s business so much before." Know Summer didn''t me him, she just felt it was too embarrassing.


    After all, An ZhiXian himself was still single. Although he was a doctor and did know more.


    "He cares about you too, just doesn''t express it well." When they were young, An''s several brothers all followed and grew up around him, so their rtionships were all very good. Therefore, he didn''t mind speaking up for him.


    "But I feel like my body has fully recovered, just like before giving birth. There''s not one bit ufortable." Know Summer pressed against him shyly, "And I just want you."


    The ancients said food, sex and desire were human nature. It was normal physiological and psychological needs for men and women to make love. If you want it, then go for it. They were legal spouses, what was there to fear?


    Besides, he was already 27. Men were strongest in their early twenties. Now he was already bing weak and would go downhill in a few more years. If he didn''t indulge more now, wouldn''t he only be left with regretter!


    Pei Jing still didn''t know Know Summer thought this way about him. Otherwise, he would definitely regret being overly gentle due to concern for her body, making her unable to feel his restraint and endurance.

 Chapter 145: Excuse Yourself for being Weak

    <h4>Chapter 145</h4>


    Pei Jing''s body was stiff, and his gaze gradually became deep.


    Zhi Xia also looked at him, not giving in at all, her moist eyes seemed to have hooks in them.


    "Let''s go to the next room." It just so happened that Granny Zhou and Zhou Nan had just left, and the beds were still unmade.


    Zhi Xia was picked up by him, her hands naturally put around his neck, her heartbeat thumping, and she was a little excited.


    After finishing, Pei Jing went out to wash his hands, and Zhi Xia wrapped herself tightly in the nket, with aplex expression on her face.


    He said it was for her health, afraid of hurting her, Zhi Xia thought, he was clearly just making excuses because his body was weak!


    Pei Jing came back and saw Zhi Xia still lying motionless under the quilt. He raised his eyebrows and pulled her out from the quilt, "What? Still not satisfied?"


    Although the little wife was young, she was clearly not as shy as she appeared on the outside, but instead had a strong ability to ept things.


    Her body and mind had been empty for a long time, and were itching to move, even to the point of feeling like exploding. But reason still prevailed in the end.


    Compared to a moment of impulse, lifelong happiness was clearly more important. So for now, recovering her health was the right thing, she could not let herself act recklessly.


    Zhi Xia quickly shook her head.


    Especially the scene of her losing herself under his calm gaze made her feel too ashamed to see anyone.


    Pei Jing used a towel to wipe her clean, and the two returned to their own rooms. The two little ones were sleeping soundly, asionally sucking their lips in their dreams.


    It was not yet light when Pei Jing got up and left.


    Zhi Xia squinted her eyes and touched the children''s diapers, making sure they had been changed by him, before going back to sleep.


    This was what she really admired about Pei Jing. He would also wake up at night, feed them and change their diapers, but she always felt like she hadn''t slept enough, while he could get up early every day, sometimes even washing the diapers when he had time, and when he didn''t, Zhi Xia would put them in the space to wash.


    He did say that if he didn''t have time to clean up, he would wait until he got back to do it again, but Zhi Xia felt bad for him too.


    On top of the tiring daily training, he had toe back and help take care of the children, wash diapers. With two children, the number of diapers used in one night could fill a basin.


    So, she tried to do as much as she could herself. She put disposable diapers on the children during the day, and changed them back into cloth diapers before he returned home.


    She slept until the sun was high in the sky, still woken up by the children. Fortunately, the babies who had just turned one month old spent their time eating and sleeping. After feeding them full and having breakfast herself, Pei Meng came at the right time.


    "Sister-inw, are the babies awake?" Pei Meng came over specially. "Uncle was afraid you couldn''t handle it alone, so he asked me toe over and help when I''m free. Anyway, I''m bored out of my mind, just tell me directly if you need me to do anything."


    The house was clean and tidy, the children were asleep, so Zhi Xia said, "There''s no need to go to so much trouble really. Aside from eating, all they do is sleep right now, so they''re not difficult to take care of. You don''t need toe over specially to look after us. Juste over at noon if you want to visit, they''ll be awake for a bit then, and you can y with them."


    After looking around and seeing that there really wasn''t anything she needed help with, Pei Meng believed Zhi Xia''s words.


    She went in to take a look at the children, and suddenly felt a little envious. "Sister-inw, you don''t think...there''s something wrong with me, right?"


    "Why do you say that?" Zhi Xia asked.


    "You and uncle got marriedst September. Now you already have two kids, and we only got married a couple months after you. Until now there''s been no sign at all." Pei Mengined.


    These two children were born at eight and a half months, but they told others they were premature twins born at just over seven months, which could still be exined away. Fortunately, they looked bigger than typical preemies.


    "Don''t worry for no reason. You two are both healthy and don''t have any problems. Getting pregnant is just a matter of time, it''s very normal. You need to rx your mind, that will make it easier to conceive." Zhi Xia told her, "And also, if you really want a baby faster, you can try some methods..."


    After speaking, seeing Pei Meng''s face turn red with embarrassment, Zhi Xia couldn''t help butugh.


    Well, she was quite open-mindedpared to real young girls.


    Letting Pei Meng sit for a while, Zhi Xia went to the kitchen, then used snow pear fruit to squeeze her a ss of juice.


    There was still a te of Chinese mulberries that Pei Jing had brought back yesterday in the cab. Zhi Xia squeezed some mulberries into the juice, instantly dying the clear liquid purple-red. She added a bit of sugar and took a taste - the texture was slightly sour and sweet.


    Zhi Xia handed Pei Meng the fruit juice she had made. "This is mulberry juice I prepared, chilled in water. Try it and see if it tastes good?"


    Pei Meng took a sip, her eyes instantly lighting up. "It really is pretty good! I''ll have to try making it when I get back too. I never thought of eating mulberries this way before."


    May and June were the season to eat mulberries. There were plenty of wild mulberry trees outside, with children climbing up to eat them. You could asionally see nearby kids walking while eating mulberry branches, getting their mouths and faces smeared purple-red.


    However, when Pei Meng tried to make it herself after getting home, she found she couldn''t recreate the taste Zhi Xia had made.


    The smooth texture made it feel refreshing going down, clearly enhancing mental rity. The irritation brought on by the summer heat seemed to be swept away, leaving a feeling offort and refreshment.


    The juice she made just wasn''t as satisfying as in water.


    Pei Meng didn''t stay too long either, because Zhi Xia was busy day and night taking care of two children right now. She ate when they slept, and was kept busy if they were awake, so Pei Meng really couldn''t help with much here.


    But she didn''t know that after Pei Meng left, Zhi Xia closed the door and brought both children into the space.


    The scenery in the space was gorgeous, flowers everywhere and fruits abundant. The livestock she raised had also multiplied a lot.


    The only regret was that she couldn''t personally experience the wonderful feeling of nature''s beauty here.


    Even so, she was still much luckier than most.


    Bringing her thoughts back, she focused on the trading section.


    Divine Doctor Sister: "Little rich girl, you''ve reached a month now right? Sister''s giving you a nice present, don''t thank me too much!"


    Zhi Xia epted the item. Inside were many medicinal pills, for the purpose of...


    Ahem!


    (Those who understand, understand)

 Chapter 146: Look Too Bold

    <h4>Chapter 146</h4>


    Pei Jing seemed not to need it at the moment.


    The snow crystal fruit itself also has restorative abilities, and she didn''t feel any different from usual yesterday, so it can be seen that the snow crystal fruit is very effective.


    She suddenly thought that she could also give some to Pei Jing to nourish his body. It is still necessary to maintain health.


    Hu Niu said that this is generally eaten by females. In case he bes like her after eating it, with snow white translucent skin, tender skin that hurts with a touch, it doesn''t seem to suit his identity.


    She also wondered if there are fruits specifically for males to eat.


    Just ask away, so after asking, Zhi Xia patiently waited for a reply.


    In this short time, the crying sound of the child came over again.


    As soon as one of the two children cries, the other will surely cry along, and the sound is very loud, as if it could copse the roof.


    Obviously, the diapers had just been put on, but when she went to check, it turned out he had soiled himself.


    Zhi Xia was busy changing his diaper again, holding them one by one to put them back to sleep. She had just soothed this one when she couldn''t soothe the other one. She was experiencing for the first time what it meant to be rushed off her feet.


    After finally finishing up, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    Hu Niu''s message had alreadye over, "Little richdy, the males here drink beast blood to improve their physique. Beast blood contains very pure energy. Do you need it?"


    Zhi Xia: "No need, no need."


    If she dared to give Pei Jing beast blood to drink, wouldn''t that expose everything?


    However, Zhi Xia had a sh of inspiration, "Hu Niu, if beast blood has energy, then beast meat should too, right? Also, do you have any live herbivorous beasts over there? I want to bring some over to breed."


    The nts in the beast world are rtivelyrge, so the animals should be simr. Zhi Xia knew her own appetite for meat. She didn''t dare raise any meat-eating beasts. If the space was upied by them, wouldn''t she be very troubled?


    Hu Niu: "Yes there are, but beast meat doesn''t have energy as pure as beast blood. It can supplement the salt needed by the body. You know, before getting to know you, our tribe could only go to the seaside to exchange for salt, which was very dangerous."


    "There are also herbivores. Just let me know what kind you like next time we hunt and I''ll have them keep some for you."


    Hu Niu was clearly very interested in the idea of breeding mentioned by Zhi Xia. Zhi Xia knew they relied on dangerous and arduous hunting over there, so she readily imparted knowledge to Hu Niu. The two chatted endlessly until the child cried again.


    Zhi Xia: "Hu Niu, my child is crying. I have to go take care of him. Let''s chat again next time."


    Hu Niu: "Okay, go quickly then."


    When Zhi Xia came back, she found that Hu Niu had sent over a beast, unprocessed.


    She was afraid there would be bloodstains inside the house, so she put it in the space outside.


    At a nce, the two-meter hairy beast lying on the ground, with long thick fangs in its mouth and two long horns growing from its head, looked ferocious and frightening, though she didn''t know what kind of creature it was.


    Zhi Xia shivered instinctively. Fortunately, she had just asked Hu Niu for herbivores. If she had suddenly raised several heads of meat-eating beasts like this in the space, she herself would have been scared to tears.


    Wanting to eat meat means having to skin it first. Zhi Xia controlled a knife with her mind, but didn''t know where to start.


    Without any experience the first time, she had carved out a nice hide with sleek fur, making several gashes in it, which looked rather a pity.


    But it wasn''t much of a pity either. No matter how nice the hide was, she didn''t dare use it outside, and the suitable temperature inside the space meant she had no use for it either. Its biggest use was for trade.


    It took up most of the afternoon before she finally finished processing the beast, dividing it up, putting it into boxes, and storing it in her storage space.


    Therge iron basin on the ground was filled with a basin full of tallow. She estimated there was enough just from rendering fat tost the two of them a year.


    The only pity was they couldn''t eat it today.


    After looking around the trading device again, she spent 1000 star coins to buy two baby care robots. Although they couldn''t be used outside, they could help her care for the babies inside the space, considerably reducing her burden.


    Calcting when Pei Jing would be back, Zhi Xia took the children out, only to find they both had their eyes open, asionallyughing a little, looking a bit silly.


    Since they weren''t crying or fussing, she didn''t need to keep thempany the whole time.


    When Pei Jing came back, it was just in time for dinner.


    "Why sote today?" Zhi Xia looked at the dark sky outside and asked him.


    "Something came up with the troops. I came back after dealing with it," said Pei Jing, helping to serve dishes and arrange bowls and chopsticks. "You''ve been cooped up at home for over a month. Do you want to go out for a walk? I happen to be free tomorrow to apany you."


    Zhi Xia''s eyes lit up. "Of course I want to. I''ve been cooped up for more than just a month. Sincest winter I could only go around the vicinity. Let''s go to town tomorrow?"


    She had lived in the city for half a month but hadn''t gone anywhere, just wandering around the residence, pregnant.


    She had always heard it said only children could tie down a woman. Now she thoroughly understood. From getting pregnant to giving birth until the children were born, she was like a kite held by a string, unable to fly high no matter how she tried.


    Thinking there were still several years of this to go through, it really was a bittersweet pain.


    Right, she suddenly remembered, she and Pei Jing being matched and even having twins must be because of her fertile physique. Even if they could be togetherter, they would have to take precautions. She didn''t want to give birth here then immediately get pregnant over there.


    "Alright, whatever you say," Pei Jing indulged her.


    Perhaps because she was so excited to go out, Zhi Xia woke up early in the morning.


    After getting ready, she saw Pei Jing bring back a pole with two bamboo baskets hanging from each end.


    "What''s this for?" She could guess his intention and found it quite novel.


    "Of course it''s for holding the children. Otherwise with each of us carrying a child, how could we buy anything?" said Pei Jing, going into the room. He padded the baskets with small nkets before cing the little ones in them, and said to Zhi Xia, "Also, bring more money. I ordered a bicycle for 175 yuan and a fan for 20. I''m picking them up today and paying."


    Pei Jing now had two empty pockets. He had given all his savings ount to Zhi Xia. He only kept a little cigarette money for himself each month. And he had been smoking less and less since getting married, especially after the children were born, sometimes going three or two days without a single puff.


    Of course, the household expenses now could only be asked from Zhi Xia, even just to buy a few yuan worth of things in town he had to ask for money.


    It felt very unfamiliar at first, but gradually became second nature. He found he quite liked these days.


    A wife with children and a warm kang stove, a joy that many men envied but could not obtain.


    "Alright, I''ll go now." Hearing there was a bicycle and electric fan, Zhi Xia was overjoyed.


    She had wanted to buy them, but supplies were tight in town. It was hard to ce orders for big items like these without connections.


    Although it was hot, the roadsides in the countryside were nted with tall, thriving trees. Their branches and leaves shaded the entire road, so it wasn''t hot but rather a bit cool.


    They didn''t have to walk far before running into an ox cart, which was convenient.


    Compared to the cold winter days, the town was clearly much livelier now.


    The line at the supply and marketing cooperative was also divided into two waves, one wave going in to buy things, the other bringing their farm goods to exchange for cash, whether eggs or vegetables, along with some home-picked dried wood ear mushrooms.


    Pei Jing found a cool ce for Zhi Xia to watch the children while he went to the supply and marketing cooperative to fetch the items.


    Zhi Xia sat on a rock under a tree, patiently watching her twins. She was suddenly patted on the back from behind.


    "Zhi Xia, what a coincidence. Are you here alone with the children?"


    The cheerful voice didn''t give Zhi Xia the delight of running into an acquaintance. Instead, she felt a bit helpless.


    Turning her head, she saw Shen Hongmei at a nce. Behind her stood a man, tall and thin. His expression held a hint of impatience, but also obvious amazement when he saw Zhi Xia.


    Shen Hongmei didn''t mind Zhi Xia''s aloofness, and proceeded to introduce them to each other.


    Fu Yunqi actively extended his hand to Zhi Xia, "Hello, I''m Fu Yunqi, the magician with the cultural work troupe. Very nice to meet you, Comrade An."


    Zhi Xia didn''t even want too much contact with Shen Hongmei, let alone someone she brought along.


    Just then the child whimpered, so Zhi Xia hurried to soothe him. "Nice to meet you, Comrade Fu."


    Although a handshake was understandable, the gaze of this gentleman she had just met was far too brazen, which made her very ufortable.

 Chapter 147: Have You Ever Really Looked at Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 147</h4>


    Fu Yunqi the magician enjoyed great poprity in the Propaganda Group, especially among the girls who practically threw themselves at him. This was the first time he had encountered such indifference.


    He was not angry. On the contrary, he felt a thick sense of interest welling up inside.


    Having received so much enthusiasm, being ignored for once was rather amusing.


    Especially with this girl in front of him...


    He really could not understand why such a beautiful girl, with gentle brows and perfect features, and an exquisite face that was very pretty but not overpowering, attractive to both men and women, would be married so young, still looking like a young girl!


    Tsk tsk, what a pity.


    Looking at her profile as she held up her child and coaxed it, it struck Fu Yunqi''s heart even more.


    Too great a pity.


    "Are these both Comrade An''s children? Their little faces are so tender and soft." Fu Yunqi praised.


    Shen Hongmei chimed in at the side, "That''s right, the news that Deputy Head Pei''s family bore twins spread all over the army, not just our Propaganda Group."


    "I had only heard about it, not seen it before, so it still feels quite novel."


    Chatting away, the two of them started a conversation.


    Seeing them, Zhi Xia said, "Comrade Shen, aren''t you busy?"


    The meaning of dismissal was obvious, instantly freezing the smile on Shen Hongmei''s face.


    After that time, Shen Hongmei hade looking for her two more times, but it was a fact that Zhi Xia could not help her.


    What she had to do now was to quickly build a foundation for herself while she still had some poprity in the Propaganda Group, or use her former connections to quickly transition out, since she did not have the talent. While she still had a chance, she had to look for another way out.


    But Shen Hongmei could not see this. She seemed bent on staying in that position, clearly unable to do the job, yet still stubbornly holding on without trying to improve, instead hoping she could get by without working hard.


    Fu Yunqi did not seem to hear any of that, and answered on Shen Hongmei''s behalf, "We really haven''t been very busy recently. We just finished touring the countryside for performances after the spring harvest, and don''t have much to do during this period except basic training. Oh, does Comrade An like watching magic tricks? When the Propaganda Group performs next time you cane watch, I personally feel that quite a lot of girls enjoy this kind of show."


    "Sorry, I have children to look after, so I don''t know when I''ll be free." Zhi Xia declined politely.


    "That''s fine too. You and your husband cane together then. Deputy Head Pei can''t leave all the children to you alone, right?"


    What Fu Yunqi said sounded reasonable, but didn''t stand up to closer examination.


    The slogan "Women Hold Up Half the Sky" had just been coined, but in reality many men still held chauvinistic views, which resulted in housewives having low status, while working women still had to take care of the household as well.


    Conversely, it was so much easier for men. As long as they went to work and provided ie, they were good husbands.


    Finding a man who understood you was lucky; if not, you would work yourself to exhaustion while others criticized you for being delicate.


    He was reminding Zhi Xia that she couldn''t care for the children alone.


    But he didn''t know that Pei Jing did hold some chauvinistic views - for example, spending arge sum on a bicycle without consulting her at all, just deciding for himself.


    But he also didn''t think household chores were just for women; when he was home, he took care of the children and did housework, handling almost everything he could.


    "My husband and I will deal with our own matters, no need for Comrade Fu to worry." Zhi Xia smiled politely, "The child is probably hungry now, could I trouble you to leave for a bit?"


    Since she had said it so clearly, Fu Yunqi and Shen Hongmei could not keep imposing.


    "Zhi Xia, we''ll be going then. My sister and brother-inw are remarrying tonight, and they''re hosting a banquet at their home. You probably haven''t heard from my brother-inw yet since you came so early, so I''ll tell you - my sister specifically said you two muste, and also Feng Xia and them, to thank you for looking after the children while she was away these months."


    Zhi Xia was not surprised by this matter.


    Shen Hongmei had already lived there for over a month with no sign of leaving. If she wanted to stay long-term she naturally needed a formal reason. If it dragged on too long with Yang Jun living in the dorms, there would inevitably be gossip.


    With four children caught in the middle, and Shen Hongmei''s recent behavior being quite decent, getting along well with the neighbors, even apologizing sincerely to those she had offended before - she had received unanimous approval.


    In any case, as long as the birth mother didn''t make trouble, the children still needed their mother.


    Yang Jun was a grown man, and there were aspects of care he inevitably overlooked, especially Cui''er. Forced to quit school to care for the household, Zhi Xia hade across her secretly crying in the kitchen or backyard multiple times.


    The girl reminded her of her past self, in different circumstances yet suffering silently, only able to cry in secret.


    So she felt even more heartache for her.


    But she was luckier than Zhi Xia in that her parents still loved her.


    She hadn''t really helped much, just asionally giving the children some candy and snacks when they came over. The two were also well-behaved, never bragging about it outside, and had even brought Zhi Xia some snails and crayfish they caught at the pond when the weather was hot.


    Seeing Fu Yunqi and Shen Hongmei walking away, Zhi Xia draped the nket from the basket over her shoulders, using her arms to prop it up, and nursed her child underneath.


    The little one had been so hungry, the first few sucks were painfully raw.


    When Pei Jing came back wheeling the bicycle, there was a small electric fan in the front basket.


    Zhi Xia was folding the small nkets, holding a child in one arm and folding with the other - not very convenient.


    "I thought we agreed you''d just go pick it up? Why did it take so long?" Zhi Xia asked.


    Pei Jing quickly propped up the bicycle and came over to take the small nkets from her, spreading them neatly in just a few moves. "The bicycle needed a registration seal, so it took some extra time. Did the child fuss?"


    "No, just hungry. I just finished feeding." With Pei Jing taking over, Zhi Xia didn''t rush to put the child back. Instead she ced a small hand on his back, gently patting out the milk burps. "Help pat Wenqing''s back too. I put her back when she finished eating, before I could pat her."


    They didn''t actually have to pat after feeding, since they had two children and couldn''t care for them that meticulously. But they tried to be more careful when they had time.


    Also they couldn''t move around right after eating or they would spit up.


    "Oh right, I saw Shen Hongmei just now. There was a magician following her, saying her brother-inw is hosting a banquet tonight for their remarriage."


    "That''s probably true. I heard a couple days ago that leadership spoke to Old Yang, probably about this matter." Not nning to get involved in others'' family affairs, Pei Jing figured they could interact fine if things went well, and keep distance if not. As for that magician, "Speaking of, the magician you mentioned, is he called Fu Yunqi?"


    Zhi Xia looked at him teasingly, "You''re quite familiar with the Propaganda Group, have you been going to watch their performances often?"


    "I have gone to see their holiday performances a few times. You know I investigated Shen Hongmei, so it''s normal for me to know about the Propaganda Group members." Pei Jing exined, "Regarding Fu Yunqi... never mind, we don''t have much interaction with him anyway. But you and Mengyao should stay away from him in the future, that would be best."


    "Why do you say that, is there something bad about him?" Zhi Xia was puzzled.


    "Not bad, too good." Pei Jing turned to look at her with some gravity. "Fu Yunqi has talent in magic performances that attracts quite a lot of attention from young women and wives, tangled up with many women in unclear rtionships. He was even caught secretly meeting married women at night before."


    Zhi Xia froze for a moment, feeling like he was implying something. "What do you mean by that? Do you think I would get entangled with him?"


    "No, don''t interpret me wrongly." Pei Jing smiled. "Zhi Xia, have you looked at yourself carefully?"


    Zhi Xia''s face instantly flushed crimson. She admitted she was a bit vain. She had not just looked over her appearance carefully in the mirror, but her body as well.

 Chapter 148: Can鈥檛 Move

    <h4>Chapter 148</h4>


    ��Zhi Xia, you are very beautiful, and it''s a softer kind of beauty that makes men want to marry you when they first see you because you are the kind of woman suitable for being a wife. I''m not worried that you will get entangled with him, I''m worried that he will have improper designs on you.�� Pei Jing said: ��It''s not the thieves that steal that you need to worry about, it��s the ones that covet what you have. Do you understand?��


    Pei Jing thought, if the An family was still as glorious as it was before the founding of the country, Zhi Xia would be a typical youngdy from a prominent family, gentle and refined.


    Of course, she also has the yful cuteness that belongs to a young girl, which can easily make one''s heart stir.


    At first sight, he only felt that she looked seventy to eighty percent simr to Zhou Nan. Even now when the two stand together they still look very much alike, but their temperaments arepletely different, and she''s actually very simr to... her auntie.


    Pei Jing knew Zhi Xia''s auntie who passed away early. She was a few years older than Pei Jing. At that time, his father and two elder brothers were away, he and his mother were able to live without worry only under the care of Old Master An''s family. Even the school he attended when he was young was funded by the An family.


    "Then I''ll take it as youplimenting me. But..." Zhi Xia looked at him puzzled, "Fu Yunqi shouldn''t be so capable that he would dare to persecute women right? Also, since everyone knows he''s entangled with so many women, howe he can still stay intact in the Cultural Work Troupe?"


    "That''s probably where he''s capable. Let''s take the woman he datedst time for example. They were caught red-handed, but the woman herself admitted to seducing Fu Yunqi, and that she had used unscrupulous means which led to his mistake..."


    One can imagine what happened to the one who admitted her guilt. Of course Fu Yunqi benefited from being the victim and even gained some sympathy.


    Zhi Xia understood now. This was a scheming maniptor.


    "I want to go buy some meat. Our meat ration tickets haven''t been used for months already, they''re almost expired." Zhi Xia said as she put the baby back in the basket.


    She didn''t evene to town when she was pregnant. Pei Jing was often able to catch wild chickens and rabbits. Her elder brother also supplemented them frequently, which saved the family''s own supplies.


    "We might go to Old Yang''s ce for dinner tonight. Use the ones that are expiring first. Don''t buy too much, it''s hard to preserve in this weather." Pei Jing said.


    "Even though they''ve invited us, with both of us going it would be inappropriate. I''ll be bringing the child and won''t be much help either. Just you going is good enough. Also, I''m thinking of making some meat sauces. We don''te to town often since it''s far. Making them will allow us to store and eat them more conveniently."


    "Alright, do as you like then." Pei Jing said and then picked up the small fan from the basket and thoughtfully fanned the baby.


    Taking out the prepared bag from behind the curtain, Zhi Xia went on her way.


    The supply and marketing cooperative also sold vegetables. The meat station was right next door.


    The ration tickets at home really were close to expiration. Pei Jing''s military benefits were very good, with eight ounces per month. Zhi Xia had half a pound.


    She used the two months that were about to expire, buying a total of two to three pounds of lean meat.


    She walked out several steps before putting the meat into the bag she carried, taking the opportunity when no one noticed. She also put the four to five pounds of meat and two bs ofrd she had prepared early on in her space.


    When she was picking the meat, she also deliberately chose parts on the beasts that looked most simr to beef. She couldn''t very well im it was pork when the difference was so obvious.


    Carrying the bag, she returned under the tree with a very noticeable smile on her face. "I''ve bought it, let''s go home?"


    "Alright, let me tie up our things." Pei Jing stood up and said. When he picked up the bag, he was clearly very surprised. "That''s a lot of meat!"


    "Yes it is. You and brother often catch wild chickens and rabbits. Our meat ration tickets at home are barely used. Making more meat sauce, it wouldn''t be right for us aunties and uncles to feast alone. I''ll make two jars for Meng Mengter, two more for brother. There won''t be much left after that." After all, her elder brother and Pei Meng had been very good to her too, considering she was pregnant and often bringing her nice things. She felt embarrassed about it herself.


    "Okay then, I''ll listen to you. I don''t know how anyway, I can only help with menial taskster." Pei Jing let Zhi Xia hold on to the bike while he tied the two baskets containing the children to the front horizontal bar, and had Zhi Xia sit alone in the back.


    The vast sky had patches of white clouds, each piece like fish scales. There was greenery in all directions, and diligent farmers busily working in the fields. There were also groups of children with baskets digging wild vegetables on the roadside, bursting into joyful voices from time to time.


    Zhi Xia released her hands originally gripping the rear seat and reached forward, her entire body pressed against his back, arms wrapped tightly around his waist.


    "Are you tired?" Pei Jing looked back at her briefly then quickly turned back around. "Hang in there for now. Don''t fall asleep on the bike like the kids. There''s no basket to catch you if you fall."


    He evenughed a little saying that.


    "Pei Jing, has anyone told you that you really have no sense of romance? Can''t I just want to hug you?" Zhi Xia said.


    "I just heard it for the first time now." Feeling her breath on his back, Pei Jing swallowed with difficulty.


    He said Zhi Xia was clingy and it was true. It wasn''t that he didn''t want to, but he was younger and could be willful, while he had to adhere to reason.


    Otherwise if they both acted like children, wouldn''t life turn chaotic?


    The bike traveled faster than an ox cart, though it was tiring for the rider. His back was drenched in sweat, clothes sticking to his body.


    All the way back to the dependents''pound, the two of them attracted attention.


    The bikes in the whole dependents''pound were limited in number. Only a few of the urban military wives had the means to buy one or two. Others treasured the chance to borrow one asionally.


    Luckily everyone was considerate in this aspect. After all, a bike was worth half a year''s wages for an average person. Anyone would treasure theirs. No one would ask to borrow unless there was an urgent need.


    Yang Jun happened to return and called out when he saw them, "Pei Jing,e eat dinner at my ce tonight..."


    Ever since Shen Hongxing''s personality drastically changed, Yang Jun rarely had such a happy expression anymore, and never let anyonee over for dinner.


    Since the situation was already known, Pei Jing readily epted.


    Returning home, they first carried the child indoors. Pei Jing was unloading the things on the bike while Zhi Xia hurriedly fetched a basin of water for him to wash his hands and face.


    Pei Jing called to her, "You should rest first, don''t rush about. I''ll lug water to rinse offter myself. I''m drenched in sweat."


    "Alright then."


    Still, Zhi Xia used a towel to first wipe his face, and also wiped herself a little, then took a small towel to wipe the children too.


    By the time she came out from the room, she saw Pei Jing had already taken all the meat out into a basin.


    "There''s beef too?" He was very surprised. After all oxen were the mainbor force in the countryside. Only ones too old to work would be ughtered.


    "Yes, we got lucky. The meat station happened to have beef, very popr, anyter we wouldn''t have gotten any." Why didn''t Zhi Xia say so from the start? Of course because it was more believable to say now. He couldn''t very well run back to the meat station to verify!


    "That is pretty lucky." Pei Jing murmured thoughtfully.


    Zhi Xia picked up the meat, "Let me go organize the kitchen first. You said you were going to rinse off right, hurry then. These two kids slept the whole ride, they''ll probably wake soon. Go freshen up and watch the kids."


    "I can washter, no rush." Pei Jing followed her to the kitchen. "You don''t have much strength. Tell me what I should do to prepare and I''ll handle it."


    "No need, there are techniques to cutting meat that you don''t know. Just obediently go watch the kids, let me rx a bit. Facing the two of them all day I feel awful too." Of course Zhi Xia wouldn''t let him participate. Otherwise she''d have to do the steps she could cheat on in her space by hand, and be even more tired. "Let me make some lunch first. We still have steamed buns. I''ll stir fry some peppers and meat, what do you think?"


    Zhi Xia looked up at him, eyes glittering, as if able to draw people in.


    "Good." Pei Jing suddenly kissed her, deepening gradually.


    Zhi Xia noticed, she didn''t know since when, but he seemed to like kissing her a lot, and intimately exploring kinds at that.


    "Mm..." Zhi Xia''s heart thumped rapidly. She pushed him away, "Go on, I''ll be quick. Just in time to eat when you finish washing up."


    Pei Jing said he was good looking too, and if his skin could be a little whiter, he would look like a typical noble young master. However, his wheat-colored skin made him look more masculine. His sturdy muscles and beautiful V line attracted her irresistibly.


    Most importantly, he was considerate and calm, but his w was being too calm and too principled. Therefore he was not so good in certain aspects.


    After the previous lesson, Zhi Xia realized she could not seduce him anymore so she did not dare to do so.


    It was too disappointing and embarrassing, making her feel like she had exposed everything to him.

 Chapter 149: The more you try to hide, the easier it is to make mistakes.

    <h4>Chapter 149</h4>


    Lunch was spicy fried "beef" with hot peppers. As it was the first time Zhi Xia had eaten this kind of meat, she had to try it first to see what it tasted like before deciding how to cook it specifically.


    Fortunately, cooked meat was just a little more tender and tasty than raw, without too much difference, so she took a bite and that''s how she felt about it.


    However, Pei Jing mentioned at the table, "It''s very delicious. The vor of the beef is great, the meat is very tender, it just doesn''t seem like old cow meat."


    "I marinated it with starch, a special marinating method - it''s my secret recipe. Marinated meat bes very tender and tasty, that''s to be expected." Zhi Xia cutely exined.


    Zhi Xia was busy alone in the kitchen all afternoon, only asking Pei Jing to wash two vats, then letting him stay in the room to watch the two children.


    But she didn''t know that sometimes, the more you try to conceal something, the more prone you are to chaos, especially when dealing with someone like a soldier with extremely strong investigative skills.


    She was very careful, but with the intimate rtionship between the two, it was still easy to discover many subtle clues.


    Unless she could really keep and not use the treasure mountain, but what would be the difference between that and not having it at all?


    Zhi Xia first rendered therd into oil dregs, then poured all the oil into jars, sprinkled salt on the oil dregs, tasted it and found the vor quite good, so she specifically scooped out some to take into the room for Pei Jing to eat.


    She made the meat sauce in five spice and spicy vors, adding a lot of seasoning and chili peppers, and of course, to prevent the grease from solidifying when cooled, she used vegetable oil from her space.


    The worst thing was that the neighbors all lived too close by, so there was no privacy when cooking. The enticing aroma from the house continued all afternoon, but luckily everyone was quite restrained, and generally wouldn''te knocking while others were cooking.


    Pei Meng dide over insisting on helping, but Zhi Xia sent her back to steam some buns, saying that the man would go to Yang Jun''s for dinner tonight, and the two of them could just eat at home with the meat sauce and buns. She was cooking meat sauce here, so she really couldn''t let Pei Meng help right now.


    While adults could endure it, children''s noses were naturally sensitive, and they couldn''t stand being teased by the tempting smell.


    The boldest ones ran over and carefully crouched at the kitchen door to ask her, "Auntie, can I exchange some shelled river snails with you for a piece of meat to eat? I just caught them and raised them for two days, they should be ready to eat now, so you won''t have to raise them yourself."


    These things weren''t coveted in summer, you could easily catch a basin full just by groping around in the river, and no one was spraying pesticides in the fields yet, so everything in the fields and rivers was wild game. When childrencked meat to eat, they would go catch field chickens and fish for yellow eels, then directly roast and eat them outdoors over a fire.


    "You want to exchange the raised river snails with me for meat to eat, does your mom agree?" To avoid entanglements, Zhi Xia still had to ask clearly.


    Of course she could just give it to him directly, but she was afraid that would set a precedent, and soon all the nearby children woulde running over. Then whether she gave them meat or not would be awkward, creating trouble for no reason.


    "My mom doesn''t care, she just refused to cook for me, saying it uses up too much oil, and our family doesn''t have enough tost the month."


    "Alright then, go get them and bring a bowl too. Don''t forget to tell your mom." Zhi Xia said.


    So the ten something year old child ran home and directly brought over a wash basin full of river snails, shocking Zhi Xia.


    Not wanting to appear stingy, she gave him half a bowl of meat sauce.


    As she had anticipated, it was good she didn''t give in and hand it out for free at the start.


    Because afterwards, another came carrying severalrge yellow eels, plus over a dozen field chickens.


    She actually didn''t like to eat field chickens, finding them too creepy looking, but couldn''t bear to refuse the longing eyes of the children, and since she had exchanged with the others, it would be a bit hurtful not to give him any. So she symbolically kept two, and had him take the rest back home.


    Pei Jing came out from the room, looking at the tied up field chickens, and asked her, "Aren''t you afraid to eat these now?"


    Earlier, he had also caught some, but she refused to let him or her eat them, instead giving them away to others.


    She had even said there were parasites and such, but didn''t say the same about eating wild chickens and rabbits, so Pei Jing automatically attributed it to these things looking too ugly, which girls naturally disliked, as a normal reason.


    "Of course I''m afraid, our family absolutely won''t eat these. You take them to set free, thene back and wash that basin of river snails. We''ll cook themter, just keep raising the eels for now." Zhi Xia said, helplessly adding: "This child is too honest, I was afraid they would alle ask for someter, so wanted him to bring something to exchange first. Didn''t expect he would bring so much. We''ll cook themter, keep some for me and Mengmeng to improve the vor, then distribute the rest to them too. It''s just the cost of some oil and effort."


    "Do it tomorrow, it wouldn''t look good for our family to cause a scene like this when the neighbors treat us to dinner tonight." Pei Jing reminded her.


    "You''re right, I''ll listen to you." Zhi Xia realized she hadn''t thought of that point earlier.


    Pei Jing didn''t go set the field chickens free, and seeing that neighbor Yang Jun was handling them now, directly brought them over.


    It wasn''t a secret that Zhi Xia was afraid to eat field chickens. After all, whenever Pei Jing went out to catch them, she refused, so the neighbors all knew.


    As soon as it darkened, the food at Yang Jun''s home was ready.


    With the families living close by, the calls from next door carried over. Pei Jing quickly responded.


    It wouldn''t be right to show up at someone''s home empty-handed, unless you were a thicker-skinned miserly sort. After all, everyone''s rations were limited, if guests ate more, the hosts would have to tighten their belts.


    Pei Jing brought over a bowl of meat sauce Zhi Xia had simmered, plus several freshly steamed buns, representing his and Zhao Xin''s share.


    There were also over ten people who came to Yang Jun''s home, filling up a big table, all nearby neighbors and better soldierrades, with each family sending just one representative.


    Everyone brought steamed buns, so Yang Jun had to provide the side dishes, all seasonal vegetables and wild fare from the river and fields, which was why summer was the best time to treat guests to dinner without creating too much burden for the hosts.


    Fu Yunqi was also there as Shen Hongmei''s partner. Shen Hongxing had wanted to call Zhi Xia over, but was cated by Pei Jing with a few words.


    Seeing the crowded table, the Shen sisters didn''t join either. If Zhi Xia went, it really wouldn''t be asfortable as eating at home.


    No one brought up congrattions for Shen Hongxing and Yang Jun''s remarriage banquet, after all, divorce and remarriage, with poor Yang Dawei caught in between, didn''t look good, so everyone just kept it in mind.


    At the table, Fu Yunqi joked that Pei Jing was under wife''s strict control, his wife wouldn''t eat field chickens, so he didn''t dare eat them either.


    Pei Jing calmly asked him, "I really didn''t know my family affairs had already spread to the cultural troupe. Comrade Fu, aren''t you concerning yourself a bit too much?"


    Fu Yunqi was directly put in ce, earning a round of thoughtful looks.


    Shen Hongmei happened to overhear this while bringing dishes over, and quickly exined: "Sorry Deputy Troupe Leader Pei, it''s just that day before yesterday when we came over about catching field chickens, I heard my sister mention that Zhi Xia doesn''t eat field chickens, so I remembered it."


    "Everyone has their own tastes, not eating field chicken isn''t something to be ashamed of or worth discussing." Pei Jing said.


    Shen Hongmei and Fu Yunqi were left with no face.


    As soon as they came out, Shen Hongxing pulled Shen Hongmei aside to interrogate her, "Hongmei, I just happened to mention yesterday when we were preparing food that Zhi Xia doesn''t eat field chickens. Was it worth you telling Fu Yunqi too? I know he''s your partner, but you can''t tell him everything, right? Be honest with sister, you aren''t still pining for Pei Jing, are you?"


    "Sister, what are you saying? He already has two children, do you think your sister is socking in principles?" Shen Hongmei had clearly lost her earlierposure, instead seeming somewhat irritable.


    "That''s best. I''m warning you, people can pursue their own happiness, but they can''tck a moral bottom line..."


    Feeling bad for her sister, Shen Hongxing also worried she might go down the wrong path like herself a couple years ago, and impulsively lectured her a great deal, though unfortunately, judging by Shen Hongmei''s expression, it was questionable how much she could actually take in.


    Zhi Xia wasn''t very hungry after being busy all afternoon, just eating one meat dreg and eggnt stuffed steamed bun, and a bowl of malt milk. Pei Meng, dipping steamed buns in the meat sauce, went through four just in steamed buns, then med Zhi Xia for making it too delicious.


    Seeing her difort from stuffing herself like a child, Zhi Xia told her to take advantage of the remaining daylight and quickly go out for a walk, lest she feel unwell from indigestion at night.


    The sounds of children running around and ying outside were asionally interrupted by an adult scolding a child. Faint noises of men drinking could be heard from next door.


    The two children had just eaten their fill and were sleeping soundly before dinner time. Shen Hongmei was stretchingzily in the yard when she saw Fu Yunqiing over from the vegetable garden with her.


    Fu Yunqi was not familiar with the army men to begin with. After what had just happened, he did not have the nerve to sit back down either. So he made up an excuse about not being able to drink and left.


    In fact, apart from Yang Jun, no one really paid him any attention. Yang Jun only considered Shen Hongmei''s feelings as a brother-inw and did not actually look approvingly on the match made by his wife''s younger sister, but as a brother-inw he could not say much.


    "Zhi Xia, have you eaten? Just now my sister insisted oning over to call you, but Deputy Commander Pei stopped her by saying you were at home looking after the children." Shen Hongmei still had a smiling expression, butpared to her former graceful beauty, she now looked distinctly faded.


    This showed that out of her former beauty, how much had been her true self? In contrast, after she lost the System, her sister Shen Hongxing looked better and better, in both looks and figure.


    "I''ve eaten. They''re drinking and who knows when they''ll stop. I was just about to wash up and close the door to rest." She meant, I''m about to rest, so don''t disturb me.


    Clearly, Shen Hongmei did not have this awareness.


    Fu Yunqi spoke up, "Comrade An''s child must have just turned one month old recently. At this age, a child just lies in bed without moving about, so it wouldn''t stop Comrade An from going out."


    Indeed, especially for women who had to work andbor in the fields, leaving the child shut in at home or tied to the bed would not hinder them from doing other things at all.


    But Zhi Xia said, "I''m particr and wouldn''t feel assured leaving the children alone at home, and since I don''t have much to do anyway, I might as well watch them."


    "That''s better. Otherwise, leaving two children alone with no one to see if they cry would be too pitiful. I still remember when I was young..."


    With both their homes close by, they could speak loudly without lowering their voices for privacy. Zhi Xia could not directly tell them to leave and gain a reputation for being unkind, so she could only stand there and listen to Shen Hongxing reminiscing bitterly.

 Chapter 150: Dirty Operation

    <h4>Chapter 150</h4>


    For Zhi Xia, Shen Hongmei was like a fly at this moment, couldn''t be beaten to death, and was quite annoying.


    Fu Yunqi also talked to her about his own childhood, but it was obvious that his conditions were much better.


    But unfortunately, Zhi Xia felt that he had the tendency to brag. Truly well-off people don''t need to remind themselves over and over again, but he seemed to be repeatedly emphasizing his excellence and that his family conditions were very good.


    If she hadn''t already gotten married and just gave birth to a pair of dragon and phoenix twins, and the times were especially important to male and female rtionships, she would suspect that Shen Hongmei had the intention of hooking her up again.


    That''s right, hook up!


    Zhi Xia suddenly reacted that Shen Hongmei was so conspicuous with Fu Yunqi in front of her, could it be that she had the idea of letting him date her?


    Shen Hongmei came a few times without getting any real benefits here, and suspected that she might have embezzled the system, or had other abilities, so she found a man to seduce her.


    After all, women are blind when ites to love. Fu Yunqi could hook up with women who would protect him to the death. Apart from his good looks, his eloquence and magician identity could make his halo shine.


    But Zhi Xia, who had seen too much, didn''t really think magicians were rare. There were too many in the future, and his eloquence was just some lip service here, and his looks...


    He looked cultured and handsome, but definitely not as handsome as Pei Jing.


    Feeling that she had guessed the truth, Zhi Xia suddenly became speechless.


    Did she look so easy to hook up?


    Also, with Pei Jing''s looks and abilities, how did they have the confidence to think that Fu Yunqi the magician couldpare?


    Sure enough, the two talked to each other for a while, Shen Hongmei went back on the pretext of being thirsty to get water, leaving only Zhi Xia and Fu Yunqi standing here.


    "Comrade Fu, it''s gettingte, you should go back too. It''s not appropriate for us unmarried men and women to stand here."


    Zhi Xia''s words were already obvious enough, but she heard Fu Yunqi sigh, "Looking at Comrade An''s gentle temperament, it really makes people envy Deputy Commander Pei."


    Zhi Xia: "..." This kind of obvious dismissal was still called a gentle good temper. Her appearance just gave people a gentle feeling which couldn''t be changed.


    Fu Yunqi waited for a while, seeing that Zhi Xia didn''t respond, he couldn''t help it a bit.


    Wasn''t it normal that she shouldfort him with a sentence, saying that he also had a good partner like Shen Hongmei?


    Usually, this was the routine he followed. A handsome man with good family background and job was depressed, and any woman wouldfort him a few words!


    Then, he would follow up byining about his partner''s ws, while praising the other person a few words, smoothly capturing the girl''s mind.


    But this time, the failure was so obvious.


    Also, after all, the other party was beautiful, and beautiful women were always difficult to deal with.


    Since she didn''t respond, Fu Yunqi could only follow the pre-arranged plot and continue, "Comrade An is young and beautiful, and your temperament looks gentle and polite, at first nce like a city person. Not like my partner, who is always rough and wild, originally still quite capable of dressing herself up, but recently she''s be more and more vulgar, her shout can shake the heavens, wishing that people two miles away can hear her... s, she doesn''t understand me at all!"


    Zhi Xia looked at Shen Hongmei next door who had poked her head out but obviously didn''t intend toe over. She directly shouted to call her over, "Comrade Shen, your partner said you are rough and wild, your shout can shake the heavens, and you are also vulgar and less and less able to dress up. Could it be that he is drunk and going crazy here? Hurry up and take him back."


    Fu Yunqi waspletely stunned. There had been failures in the past, but at most the women would distance themselves from him.


    This slutty operation was really the first time he had seen it.


    Wasn''t it, as a woman, even if you don''t sympathize with his pity, with so many neighbors around, was it necessary to shout it out like this?


    How could he continue to live after this? What would Shen Hongmei think? What would the neighbors think?


    Zhi Xia didn''t know what others thought, but Pei Jing heard it. He came out with a cold face.


    Yang Jun also came out with a cold face. A table full of people came out to watch the excitement.


    "What''s going on?" Pei Jing walked through the vegetable garden to Zhi Xia.


    "I don''t know what''s going on either. Comrade Shen Hongmei brought her partner over, then she said she went back to get water and disappeared. Her partner still refused to leave and was talking nonsense here. I wanted to go back and rest but didn''t feelfortable, so I could only call Comrade Shen over to take him away."


    "I''m really sorry. I was just in the kitchen trying to make some peanut crisps. Maybe my partner is a little drunk. He''s always like this, talks a lot when he drinks a little, and can chat with anyone. I''m really troubling you Zhi Xia." Shen Hongmei didn''t dare to hide anymore, and hurriedly came over and signaled Fu Yunqi, "You drank again and were babbling nonsense here. Today is my sister and brother-inw''s good day. We came to help, not to make trouble."


    Fu Yunqi got the signal and quickly covered his forehead, "I...I''m dizzy and ufortable. I may really have had too much to drink..."


    In this situation, pretending to be drunk was the only way to get away with it.


    "Since you''re drunk, then let me take Comrade Fu back." Pei Jing said, with no warmth in his voice.


    "No need, no need, I can go back myself." Fu Yunqi didn''t dare let Pei Jing send him back, unless he wanted to get beat up.


    Zhao Xin came out from the side, put a hand on Fu Yunqi''s shoulder, pulled hard, and took advantage of Fu Yunqi''s particrly weak state, "You still have children at home. Young uncle should go back and help young aunt take care of the children. I''ll take Comrade Fu back. I just happen to have a few words I want to ask Comrade Fu."


    Pei Jing smiled, "That''s fine too. Take good care of Comrade Fu. This is the army. Although he is from the cultural troupe side, he still has to understand what can be said and what cannot."


    "Don''t worry, I''m good at teaching people." Zhao Xin hooked the man''s neck and walked away.


    Shen Hongmei on the side said it was unnecessary, but he dismissed her with a few words, "Comrades Shen and Fu aren''t married yet, right? You''re already so strict, we men can''t even talk a little?"


    Anyone could see this was far from simple. Zhao Xin clearly wanted to teach the man a lesson, but the leading cadre Yang Jun didn''t say anything.


    Saying improper words in front of a married femalerade, and even an army wife, beating him up lightly in private was the minimum. Not giving him a demerit was already good.


    Besides, everyone knew Fu Yunqi''s reputation. It was just that no one had dared to make trouble in the army before. This time he had run into a gunpoint, and even Yang Jun''s face was ugly.


    "Zhao Xin took Fu Yunqi back, let''s go back to drinking..." Yang Jun called people back with a dark face, smiling uglier than not smiling.


    "There is still training tomorrow, drinking too much harms the body, and it''ste. We''ve also eaten enough, so we won''t disturb your couple''s broken mirror reunion." This was what the leading cadre said. "Old Yang, your family has had a lot of things happen this year. Whether for the children or for yourself, you have to be especially careful in your work and interpersonal interactions. Personal reputation is small, but you can''t ruin the reputation of the army and the country!"


    Yang Junughed along. He was innocently implicated again.

 Chapter 151: Contrast 02

    <h4>Chapter 151</h4>


    When she got back home, all the guests had left, leaving behind only a mess.


    Shen Hongxing directed Yang Dawei and her two younger brothers to help clean up. At 10 years old, she already understood a lot, and also knew her parents were in a bad mood right now.


    Even though she understood her elder brother had be like thisrgely because of Shen Hongxing''s fault, she still hoped her own mother could stay at home.


    After all, even if not a great mom, at least she was her birth mom. If her dad really got them a stepmom, she was afraid life would be even worse than now.


    Moreover, she wanted to go to school instead of staying home like a wild child everyday. Perhaps she was also being selfish. Even though her dad said he had no choice, she was unwilling to give up on herself for her siblings'' sake.


    Especially after her mom came back, caring for them and cherishing them, no longer nagging and quarreling all day like before. She was clearly different from the past.


    She liked this kind of mom, which was why she had pleaded with her dad to forgive her mom, along with her younger brother.


    Yang Jun had also decided to give Shen Hongxing another chance afterprehensive consideration from various aspects.


    Even a child understood that biological parents are still the best. How could he not understand this principle?


    This was also why he was willing to let Shen Hongxing quit school and stay home, and why he was always unwilling to take another wife.


    He was often not home, inevitably unable to attend to some matters. If he married a vicious woman, the children would surely suffer even more.


    He was extremely satisfied with Shen Hongxing''s behavior over this period, which was why he finally made up his mind.


    But he didn''t expect that while his wife had changed for the better, his formerly capable and sensible sister-inw had be worse and worse over this time, unable to do her work properly and even finding such a partner despite their advice against it.


    After all, she wasn''t his own sister. Back then when he and Shen Hongxing were divorced, Yang Jun also couldn''t overstep his bounds in lecturing his former sister-inw. So he could only gently advise her a few times.


    The leadership of the performing arts troupe hade to him several times already. After all, Shen Hongmei could work in the troupe only because of him initially, which gave Yang Jun a huge headache.


    Originally happy today, he had drank more than usual. As a result, all that was left now was difort.


    Outside, Shen Hongxing pulled Shen Hongmei to the kitchen, ignoring the lingering smoke and shutting the kitchen door. She immediately asked, "Shen Hongmei, what exactly are you thinking? Don''t you know Fu Yunqi''s reputation? Your sister-inw and I advised you many times to no avail. If you insist on degrading yourself, no one can do anything. But why did you bring Fu Yunqi to meet An ZhiXia? You clearly know she''s beautiful while Fu Yunqi is indiscriminate. You deliberately left him alone with ZhiXia. What were you plotting?"


    "How could you think that of me? I really just brought him to say hello, then got thirsty and came back for water. I didn''t expect things to turn out like this!" Shen Hongmei said with red-rimmed eyes, "Sis, I really have no feelings left for Pei Jing. I just want to properly spend my days with Fu Yunqi now. Please believe me!"


    Shen Hongxing felt wronged too. Her husband was finally willing to forgive her, the children were close to her again, and it looked like good days ahead. Yet such an incident had urred.


    With the leaders of her husband''s troop and neighbors present, this disruption, how would others look upon them as a couple in the future?


    "Shen Hongmei, I can''t control you anyway, so I won''t try to control you either. I only have one request of you. Your sister has finally gotten your brother-inw to forgive me with great difficulty. No matter what you do, don''t implicate me and your brother-inw. Don''t think I don''t know your intentions. Just now, what was that excuse about adding peanuts? I was in the kitchen the whole time. You can use that excuse to fool others, but not me!" said Shen Hongxing, "Hongmei, we are blood sisters. I always thought I understood you well. You were always so obedient and praised by others. Tell me, why have you suddenly changed over this period?"


    Shen Hongxing wondered, could this muddle-headedness be contagious?


    When she was muddle-headed herself, Shen Hongmei was in her prime, with both work and temperament praised. Now that she had changed for the better, Shen Hongmei had be muddle-headed, only doing foolish things with no benefit.


    Shen Hongxing really didn''t know what Shen Hongmei was plotting. If she knew, she would probably understand that what she wanted to obtain was not Pei Jing, but something those without such experience simply couldn''t imagine.


    Shen Hongxing''s words also made Shen Hongmei''s heart tighten.


    If it was just work frustration before, along with the system having disappeared for so long, she discovered that those who used to be well-disposed towards her seemed to be gradually bing uncontroble as well.


    When the system was present, once someone''s goodwill towards her reached a certain level, they could even blindly and recklessly defend her, like how her sister treated her even better than her own children in the past.


    But now, this blind defense was clearly weakening, and she could foresee that in the near future, it wouldpletely disappear. She would no longer have any advantage.


    Zhao Xin escorted Fu Yunqi halfway. His arm remained hooked around Fu Yunqi''s neck and didn''t rx at all, making it impossible for Fu Yunqi to escape even if he wanted to. He shivered in fright the entire way.


    Suddenly, the arm pressed against him withdrew. Right after, a foot kicked Fu Yunqi''s butt, sending his entire body sprawling on the ground. His chin mmed down and scraped, while he also bit his own tongue. The taste of blood filled his mouth.


    Before he could react, Zhao Xin had already kicked him over with one foot, knee pressing down on his stomach. One hand clutched his cor, nearly choking off his breathing.


    "Spare me, I really didn''t have any indecent thoughts. Besides, this is the military. I wouldn''t have the guts to try anything." Fu Yunqi said in terror, his forehead beading with sweat. Even when he secretly met with other men''s wives at night and got blocked on a mountain path, he hadn''t felt such fear.


    "I didn''t ask you that." Zhao Xin bared his teeth in a grin that was full of menace. "How badly you get beaten today depends on how well you perform. Tell me, why would Shen Hongmei look for a useless wimp like you, if not to deliberately arrange for you to seduce my aunt?"


    Seeing Fu Yunqi''s eyes rolling wildly, Zhao Xin smashed a fist in. The sound of ribs cracking could be heard. "Don''t say there wasn''t any scheme. Everyone knows she used to chase after Pei Jing. Who doesn''t know your reputation, Fu Yunqi? Only deceiving ignorant rural women. If Shen Hongmei didn''t have calctions, would she look for a man like you? Is she stupid or blind?"


    Likewise, many knew of Shen Hongmei chasing Pei Jing, and that Fu Yunqi was Shen Hongmei''spdog.


    Shen Hongmei hadn''t even nced at him before. Now they were publicly dating. Of course, who they dated was their freedom. But Fu Yunqi spouting nonsense before An ZhiXia inevitably aroused suspicion.


    They weren''t inexperienced people. Battlefields contained even more sinister schemes, and a woman''s tricks followed set patterns. Shen Hongmei and Fu Yunqi''s little tricks were insufficient before them.


    Of course, it was also possible Shen Hongmei had truly lost her mind and they were overthinking. But Fu Yunqi deserved this beating he was taking anyway. He had brought it on himself.

 Chapter 152: A Lot to Worry About

    <h4>Chapter 152</h4>


    Fu Yunqi was unwilling to confess obediently. Zhao Xin loved doing this kind of venting, so he didn''t ask any more questions and beat and kicked Fu Yunqi directly until he cried for his father and yelled for his mother.


    "I was wrong, stop beating me, can''t I just confess obediently?"


    Seeing that he had been beaten enough, Zhao Xin couldn''t go too far either, so he stopped conveniently, "Speak, don''t force me to loosen my muscles and bones."


    "It was Shen Hongmei who asked me to do it. It was all because of that woman who asked me to do it. She slept with me once, and also gave me 200 yuan. Although she didn''t say it explicitly, I could tell what she meant from her words. She kept praising Pei Jing''s wife in front of me, saying that Pei Jing''s wife was very beautiful, and also a rich person from the city. You also know that I have no resistance against women. But I''m not a person who doesn''t know the severity either. I have nevermitted any affairs in the army before. But today at noon in town I met Pei Jing and his wife. Adding to Shen Hongmei''s constant temptation in front of me, I just..." took fancy on her didn''t I, what man doesn''t love beautiful women, let alone a beautiful and rich woman.


    Pei Jing had always been outstanding in the army, cold-hearted. Before the news of his marriage came out, most of the unmarried femalerades in the cultural troupe harbored secret affections for him, but none were as obvious as Shen Hongmei.


    Fu Yunqi recalled that at first he was like being possessed, although he had never stopped flirting with others, but he felt particrly different about Shen Hongmei. Shen Hongmei just happened to only like Pei Jing, and he had long looked down on Pei Jing in his heart.


    Recently, Shen Hongmei suddenly came to find him and offered her body and money. How could he resist that? So he just went along with her.


    But strangely, it seemed to be true that when you get something you don''t cherish it anymore. He suddenly felt that he didn''t like Shen Hongmei that much anymore.


    However, An ZhiXia was indeed very beautiful. When he first saw her at noon in town, he felt like he had lost his soul. Originally, he only wanted to deal with Shen Hongmei perfunctorily, but there was another chance that night, so he wanted to try his luck.


    That woman looked gentle and delicate. He thought she would be beautiful and easy to handle, but unexpectedly she was a tough one, not caring about her reputation at all, yelling loudly for the whole world to know.


    Fu Yunqi really ate a big loss for the first time, and didn''t get any advantage at all. Now he was beaten up again, and he even resented Shen Hongmei.


    If it wasn''t for her constantly mentioning An ZhiXia''s goodness in front of him, he wouldn''t have set his mind on her. As a result, not only did he not seed, but he also got himself into trouble.


    ...


    Pei Jing drank some wine with a cold look on his face, looking somewhat frightening.


    After entering the room, An ZhiXia closed the door before daring to take his hand, "Are you angry?"


    But Pei Jing asked instead, "An ZhiXia, did Shen Hongmei secretly look for you before?"


    "Didn''t I tell you? She dide to find me, and insisted on giving me a bag of red dates, which you saw too." An ZhiXia said.


    "It shouldn''t have just been that one time, right? What about after that?" Pei Jing asked her, "I just feel that Shen Hongmei looks very familiar with you."


    "You got it wrong, I''m not close with her at all." An ZhiXia cozied up to hug him and kissed his chin, "Don''t be like this, giving me the cold face, okay? It scares me."


    Pei Jing did feel that he needed to sort out his thoughts properly, especially seeing that An ZhiXia clearly wanted to continue deceiving him.


    With a helpless sigh, he peeled her off with his hand. Pei Jing said, "I''m not giving you a cold face, I''m angry at them. And I''m full of the smells of smoke and alcohol. Don''t get it on you. I''ll go wash first."


    "Then I''ll wash with you. I haven''t washed yet either. And I can scrub your back for you."


    "What if the baby cries halfway through the wash? Be good and listen, I''ll wash up first then you go after. We can take turns watching the baby."


    Pei Jing hurriedly turned away with a change of clothes to go out. The weather was already hot, and the fire in his heart was also raging wildly.


    This girl, did she know what she was saying?


    No matter how good his self-control was, he was still a man. Men can''t withstand provocation, especially from their own wife.


    Carefully counting the time, it hadn''t been many days. He had to restrain himself.


    "Alright, alright." An ZhiXia also helplessly turned back into the room, and muttered softly, "Stingy old man, if it doesn''t work then forget it, still an old antique."


    Perhaps the onlyforting thing was that he was considerate enough, and didn''t find it dirty to take care of her after birth, so she should also be more generous and not despise him.


    Pei Jing heard it behind him and raised his eyebrows. He took the change of clothes and went out expressionlessly.


    He directly rinsed himself with cold water. There were slight muffled groansing from the shower room. Aftering out of the shower room, he finally felt refreshed all over.


    Just then Zhao Xin came back. The two men lit cigarettes and walked out, talking as they went.


    An ZhiXia watched their figures going out from the window, a trace of sadness shed across her thoughtful face.


    Perhaps she shouldn''t havee with the army. She had too many secrets. And Pei Jing was too vignt, always giving her the feeling that she might be seen through inadvertently.


    In this world, she didn''t even know who she could trust, even with the memories she knew from her previous life. It wasn''t omnipotent.


    Viins also have a process of bing viins. Or in this process, even if there is a slight deviation, they may be good people in this life.


    But equally, good people are not without the possibility of bing bad.


    Human nature is most vulnerable to trials. She had always been careful to guard her secrets, for fear that exposing them would arouse others'' greed and calctions.


    Even Pei Jing, he was an upright and kind good man, loyal to the country, but who could guarantee that after knowing what she possessed, he wouldn''t make her give it out?


    She could casually use the transaction device and things in the space, but the transaction device would not allow her to greatly change this world. Each world had its own developmental process. Speeding it up too much could very possibly lead to dimensional copse.


    She knew these things, but others didn''t, so they would think she was hiding things for personal gain.


    Like Shen Hongmei, who had always believed that she was privately keeping her system.


    Fortunately, Shen Hongmei could not speak about the system, nor could An ZhiXia. This was the power of the transaction device.


    An ZhiXia sometimes felt fortunate that her luck was rtively good, so she didn''t encounter Shen Hongmei''s kind of wild system.


    The transaction device had many rules, but it wouldn''t do bad things without ethics. Its main function was to exchange and search for resources, but in order to maintain the stability of the dimension, it also had great restrictions.


    Also, although the transaction device was currently connected with the space, they werepletely different individuals, so the space was stillpletely under An ZhiXia''s control.


    It took Pei Jing a long time toe back and calmly lie down next to An ZhiXia. Both of them had a lot on their minds.

 Chapter 153: Is it Controlled

    <h4>Chapter 153</h4>


    Compared to before, he was obviously much colder today.


    Zhi Xia felt uneasy in her heart.


    Leaning to the side, she tilted her head and asked, "I waited for you for a long time just now but you didn''te back. You weren''t around when I went out either."


    Pei Jing smelled the fragranceing from his side and pulled his thoughts back from the distance. "Zhao Xin sent Fu Yunqi back, and I talked with him for a while."


    Zhi Xia nodded and didn''t intend to ask further. But Pei Jing asked her, "Won''t you ask what we talked about?"


    "Would I know?" In fact, Zhi Xia knew clearly that Fu Yunqi was at most used by Shen Hongmei. He couldn''t possibly know about certain things. Pei Jing also couldn''t find out much from him.


    "Of course." Pei Jing now knew Shen Hongmei and Fu Yunqi were plotting against his wife. Of course he wouldn''t keep her in the dark without any vignce.


    What Zhi Xia learned from Pei Jing was simr to what she had guessed.


    "Zhi Xia, you don''t seem to find it strange that Shen Hongmei wants to plot against you." Pei Jing''s gaze was deep as he looked at her, not hiding his probing at all.


    Zhi Xia smiled, but the smile didn''t reach her eyes. "Hasn''t everyone been saying she likes you? It seems I''ve been implicated because of you."


    Pei Jing also smiled. His fingers stroked her fallen hair as he held her even tighter. A helpless sigh escaped from his throat. "Silly girl, do you know there are no airtight walls in this world? For some things, as long as you do them, you''ll leave traces. Just like the steamed buns in our basket at home - you stole one when I wasn''t home. Do you really think I wouldn''t know?"


    Likewise, the things sent from Jin Cheng woulde, but not so much. After all, everyone had a quota. asionally they could exchange resources with others, but it was impossible to do this every month.


    The grain brought home each time was always a bit more than purchased, and the quality was better too. Zhi Xia probably didn''t know, but Pei Jing''s hand was a scale. He could know the approximate weight by how much he lifted.


    The tastes in her mouth, the lingering smells on her body after a bath, and the things used for the child - all these could easily be concealed from others. But for Pei Jing, who lived with her day after day, sharing the same bed, there were far too many loopholes.


    Feeling Zhi Xia''s suddenly tense body, Pei Jing soothingly stroked her back. "Don''t be afraid, Zhi Xia. Maybe you can consider trusting me a bit more. I won''t hurt you. Everyone has their own little secrets - I don''t require you to have no concealment from me. But you have to let me know about things between you and Shen Hongmei. She clearly won''t let things rest as they are now, yet you won''t tell me anything. What if something happens and I can''t protect you?"


    Zhi Xia looked at him, clearly sensing his earnestness.


    "What if I was a monster, a man-eating monster? Would you still protect me?" For a moment, Zhi Xia wanted topletely trust him.


    Pei Jing didn''t hurry to reply. It was as if he pondered for a while before earnestly answering, "As long as you don''t endanger the country or people, don''t ughter the innocent, as long as I''m alive, I will use my life to protect you and the children. From the moment we married, you and the children became my responsibility, just like protecting the country."


    Suddenly Zhi Xia didn''t dare look at him. Shey on his chest topletely hide her gaze.


    In her two lifetimes, this was the first person who said he would use his life to protect her.


    To break it off or not, the chaos continues.


    He was already suspicious. Continuing to be vague and conceal things would cause cracks in their already sparse feelings.


    Divorce was also unrealistic, and she didn''t want that.


    Previously Zhi Xia felt that a wonderful romance was desirable, with the only downside being it was hard tost long. Too many lovers were madly in love at first, yet their feelingspletely vanished and even turned to enmity after the test of time.


    She didn''t believe love couldst long, but she suddenly felt a man with a sense of responsibility was truly captivating.


    After a brief escape, she sat up and nced at the two sleeping children, then said to Pei Jing, "You investigated Shen Hongmei and also know of her peculiarities. Have you noticed her state these recent six months, as well as the changes around her?"


    Pei Jing suppressed the urge to rub his thumb and forefinger together. That was a little habit he loved to do whenever thinking, but forced himself to change it after joining the military. Still, asionally he would feel an itch.


    Regarding Shen Hongmei, after confirming she wasn''t a spy, he gave up investigating her. As for anything else, so long as she didn''t betray the country or break thew, those were personal affairs. They didn''t have the hobby of peeping on others.


    "Your guess isn''t bad actually. Shen Hongmei is indeed very unusual. Over the years, people around her have continuously encountered misfortune and harm. You can consider her as being controlled by an evil spirit that feeds on the luck of others. And I am the little fairy who subdued that evil spirit. " Zhi Xia tried to use a cheerful tone as she exined, because she didn''t like that oppressive atmosphere herself.


    "If you put it that way, Shen Hongmei should be thanking you. But she still wants to harm you. Is it because after losing the evil spirit''s help, her career has declined, and her looks have..." Pei Jing''s gaze was deep. He didn''t want to be so direct, but ording to his deductions, it should be simr. "When she was controlled, she wanted to get rid of the evil spirit, but after freeing herself she realized she had nothing left. Unable to bear the pain of losing everything, she regretted it?"


    Zhi Xia had to admit, for a man to achieve so much without the meddling of rebirths was definitely not purely due to luck.


    He was very smart and vignt, with strong principles and sense of responsibility.


    Or perhaps, if she could change the situation some yearster where he had to retire from the military due to injury, he could also disy different brilliance on another path.


    "But regret shouldn''t make her resent you to this extent, unless...she feels you benefited from the evil spirit, or you controlled that evil spirit?"


    This deductive ability was amazing.


    "It''s not really an evil spirit, I said that just to make it easier for you to understand by giving an example. Actually it was a technological product from the future, a kind of ck technology. It resides in a person''s body and controls others, then draws the good fortune of others through the fondness they develop for the controlled person. In this process, the controlled person like Shen Hongmei can also obtain some benefits as a reward. Her beauty, temperament, talent, these should all be rewards given by that thing. So after losing it, she gradually returned to her true self, bing who she really was. And she couldn''t ept such a in, unadorned self, that''s how it is."


    After Zhi Xia finished, Pei Jing looked at her for a long time, sizing her up. "Then what about you? Have you been controlled too?"


    Pei Jing thought back to Zhi Xia''s huge changes over the past six months.


    But she didn''t change aftering here and interacting with Shen Hongmei. Rather, she changed every moment from the time she returned to the An family, or even earlier, from their first meeting.


    A girl who grew up shackled in the countryside and oppressed - yet on her, he seldom saw traces of being oppressed.


    Only when facing her An family parents beforeing here did Pei Jing truly feel the grievances in this girl''s heart.

 Chapter 154: If you can鈥檛 hide it, you can鈥檛 hide it.

    <h4>Chapter 154</h4>


    ��I certainly do not have it,�� Zhi Xia said with a smile, dodging his search with hands and feet, ��I am a little fairy, how could a little fairy possibly be controlled by an evil spirit!��


    Pei Jing heaved a sigh of relief, raised his hand and poked her on the nose, with a slight pampering, ��Yes, little fairy, Shen Hongmei and Fu Yunqi��s side I will solve it, you just stay at home and be a good little fairy, but you must not let others find out. Also, if you encounter a situation like Shen Hongmei again in the future, don''t do it yourself, don''t be afraid that she will leak it to you, spread chaos and supernatural power, although the army did not engage in that set of crackdowns, but also not too obvious. "


    Zhi Xia nodded, "But rest assured, she can''t say it, you can understand it as a kind of restraint, but it has no effect on life, just can''t spread the news that certain things exist."


    "Then you..."


    "I can''t tell anyone either, it was you who guessed it first, and, I really don''t have any of Shen Hongmei''s ck technology, that kind of harmful stuff has been destroyed and disposed of, even if I keep it I don''t dare use it ah." Anyway, he already let him know, this kind of thing is like opening a head, it will be messy before it is said, but when it is really said, it doesn''t feel terrible either.


    Especially, Pei Jing showed such trust in her.


    "Then can you tell me now? Have been secretly eating behind my back what delicious food?" Pei Jing asked with a smile.


    Zhi Xia widened her eyes in surprise, "You even know this?"


    "Did you overlook the taste in your own mouth?" Pei Jing didn''t mind letting her know either.


    Only then did Zhi Xia understand that she thought she had hidden it very well, but had revealed so many details behind the scenes.


    This time it��s good, the space thing can��t be kept secret either.


    But she only said that she had a ce in her mind that could be nted and bred, and the things she ate and used were earned by her ownbor, not like Shen Hongmei who harmed people around her to get benefits.


    This night, although thrilling and disturbing, tangled, apprehensive, but when the heart is opened to tell the secret, it can clearly feel the rtionship between the two has improved a lot.


    Perhaps it was theck of concealment that had existed before, or perhaps having amon secret made them feel closer.


    Zhi Xia showed him the things she had grown like a treasure, and Pei Jing only knew that there was a ce that was not divided into four seasons, there were apples as big as heads, and watermelons could be half a person tall...


    Everything seemed to make sense, but could not make sense.


    Except... the crying of the children at night made people anxious, and there were two crying together, neither of them could rest, each holding a child and swaying bitterly.


    Summer nights were short to begin with, and the sky grew bright. Zhi Xia groggily grabbed Pei Jing, who was about to get up, "Sleep a little longer, aren''t you tired?"


    "I''m going to make breakfast, you go back to sleep." Pei Jing said.


    "No need to go make it, I can store cooked food here, take it out and it''s the same as just cooked." Zhi Xia struggled to get up with drowsiness, put her hand on the table, and the braised pork from yesterday afternoon appeared on the table with the basin, still steaming.


    Even though he had seen her take out many things out of thin airst night, seeing it suddenly in the early morning still felt like a dream.


    "Then I have to get up too, after eating I have to go to the army." Pei Jing was already used to getting up at this time, waking up on time every day, lying down would feel ufortable on the contrary.


    "Well, if that''s the case." Zhi Xia also took out a few buns for him, so as not to have to start the fire again, then turned over and went back to sleep.


    Pei Jing felt a little novelty eating the things she had brought out. Suddenly he thought that he had really married a treasure.


    Originally Zhi Xia''s dowry had made him feel a little unreal, now it seemed that no matter how hard he tried, it would be unavoidable to eat soft food, after all, it would be so convenient this way, as long as the meals were cooked and stored in that space when there was time, no matter when they were taken out, they would be like just cooked, so there was no need to waste the time for those three meals a day.


    This time when Pei Jing went out, he didn''t have to worry that Zhi Xia would be too busy looking after the two children to eat.


    When he went out, he bumped into Wu Shengli next door and asked, "Deputy Commander Pei, didn''t see your family start a fire in the morning, did the children make too much noisest night?"


    He had heard the children cryingst night, having twins was envied by others, but on second thought, it must be quite tiring to raise them, it would be more tiring than raising one child.


    "Ah, yes, the children''s mother didn''t get up in the morning, so I just heated a couple of steamed buns on the stove and ate them withst night''s meat sauce." Except for heating the steamed buns on the stove, the rest was true.


    Also this meat sauce, after knowing Zhi Xia''s little secret, it wasn''t difficult for him to guess that this meat was probably not old Niu''s meat either.


    However, he still couldn''t figure out that this was the meat ofrge ancient beasts, he just thought it was the cow Zhi Xia raised in that ce, and it was understandable that the taste was slightly different in that special ce.


    The meat sauce Pei Jing had taken to Yang Jun''s housest night, and Wu Shengli had also tasted a few mouthfuls. The taste was indeed good, and the aftertaste was endless. At this point, just mentioning it made him feel like his salivary nds were secreting more.


    "Deputy Commander Pei, let me ask you something, give me some of that meat sauce, okay? Otherwise I''ll go buy meat and let your daughter-inw teach my wife how to make it..." This way of eating could also save a bit, and the taste was also delicious. After all, there was only so much meat every month, arge family got together and a meal of dumplings was gone.


    Pei Jing had no choice but to agree to exchange some for him. Letting Zhi Xia teach her how to make it was definitely not going to work, because the meat itself was wrong, plus the seasonings and such.


    Wu Shengli exchanged a bowl, and others who were moved also came to the door. Fortunately, Zhi Xia still had stock in her space, otherwise it wouldn''t be enough.


    Luckily there was no follow up. The meat sauce was delicious but also heavy, originally two steamed buns were enough to fill up, now four could be finished with just the meat sauce, no family''s food could stand up to this momentum.


    On the contrary, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing''s living conditions rose by more than one level, and cooking could bepletely done in the space without worrying about leaking aroma and being discovered by others. When eating it was in the room, once the door was closed no one could see, leftover bones and shells could be recycled back into the space.


    The night was deep, the moon was bright and the stars were sparse.


    Shen Hongmei sneaked to the ce agreed with Fu Yunqi, the wastnd outside the army, beside the haystack.


    At this point, the two were like mutual enemies. Shen Hongmei never liked Fu Yunqi, that was for sure, even now she just wanted to use him. And in Fu Yunqi''s eyes, Shen Hongmei had lost her former mor, she was just an ordinary woman. Naturally there was nothing desirable about her.


    However, a woman just obtained, her body was still fresh.


    After a cloud and rain, Fu Yunqi proposed to Shen Hongmei that he wanted to marry her, because Zhao Xin had promised him that as long as he married Shen Hongmei, he would help transfer him back to his hometown.


    Fu Yunqi''s family background was still quite good, otherwise he wouldn''t have been able to y around like this without incident. The reason he came to such a small ce was because he had coveted someone he shouldn''t have, and was set up by someone.


    Now that he had a chance to go back, he would certainly seize every opportunity.


    For Shen Hongmei, the tough bone Zhi Xia was very difficult to chew. These days she was making things difficult for her in every possible way in the regiment, and even the regimentalmander looked at her more and more unpleasantly. It was obvious that her job was about to be lost, and there was no way to get to Zhi Xia. Right now the only thing she could grab was Fu Yunqi.


    She didn''t care if the man was fickle, she just wanted to keep her good life for herself. Fu Yunqi''s conditions were exactly what she valued.


    The two hit it off so easily that by the time Zhi Xia found out, Fu Yunqi had already been transferred away, and Shen Hongmei naturally had to go with him.

 Chapter 155: Never has Been

    <h4>Chapter 155</h4>


    After dinner, Zhi Xia asked Pei Jing, "Were Fu Yunqi and Shen Hongmei transferred because of you?"


    "I just gave Fu Yunqi a choice through Zhao Xin. Of course he would rather go to the city''s performing arts troupe than stay in such a harsh ce."


    If Fu Yunqi focused on his work instead of chasing after women, he would also be an excellent magician with a bright future ahead of him.


    Unfortunately, such a talented person with misguided aspirations was bound to end up in trouble sooner orter.


    "Zhi Xia, regardless of whether Shen Hongmei says anything about that incident, she knows it herself. Staying here and clinging on would always be dangerous. It''s best that Fu Yunqi takes her away. With her gone, she won''t have the ability to reach over here anymore."


    "Mm mm." Zhi Xia nodded vigorously. She was overjoyed that Shen Hongmei was finally leaving and would no longer pester her.


    The weather grew hotter by the day. The croaking of frogs in the backyard grew louder. The two little ones weren''t as sleepy as before, but they were still quite synchronized, waking and sleeping together.


    When they were first born, my sister was slightly bigger than my brother. Now their body sizes looked about the same, with only a few ounces difference in weight. The two babies looked very alike, both double-eyelided, with high nose bridges and chubby little faces.


    When not looking at their lower halves, Zhi Xia often mixed the two children up, but Pei Jing never did, even though she was the one apanying the babies day and night.


    Right then, the two little onesy on the bed with eyes wide open, asionally tilting their heads and babbling at each other in pure baby talk that only they could understand.


    Zhi Xia walked over and nted a kiss on the forehead of the one lying on the outside. It made herugh happily, waving her little paws aggressively but not knowing where to put her strength, making her movements look somewhat chaotic.


    "Hehe..." Zhi Xia alsoughed heartily, extending a finger for her to grab. Her grip was tight and quite strong. "Our little Wanqing is so cute. Do you miss Mommy?"


    Inparison, her brother Pei Chenye smiled less and was closer to Pei Jing.


    Perhaps it was because Pei Jing often carried him outside, while Zhi Xia had less strength and at most just yed with them a little, rarely picking them up except when they cried or made a fuss.


    The hot weather meant less clothing. With fewer obstacles to their movement, the little ones'' legs were often kicking up, as if they had endless energy.


    Without baby health checks at this time, Zhi Xia knew some procedures and gave them massages, touches and chatter every day, and let them listen to music when free.


    After Pei Jing learned her secret, it really became much more convenient. She no longer needed to hide anything about the babies'' clothing and supplies from him, at least able to sleep properly at night without getting up frequently to change diapers. As long as they didn''t poop, feeding them twice a night would suffice.


    After Pei Jing finished washing the dishes, he came in and asked, "Do you want to shower first, or should I go first?"


    "Is the water on the stove hot? Let''s give the babies a wash too?" The weather was scorching hot like a big furnace. Even the babies had sweat on the tips of their noses.


    The fan couldn''t be ced too close either, just blowing from afar. Sitting here you could barely feel a light breeze.


    "Alright, I''ll prepare the water. Let''s wash them in the living room." Pei Jing turned and headed out.


    The wash basin was a special baby bath tub with a protruding center.


    cing the little one inside, Zhi Xia used her fingers to gently massage and wash his body while Pei Jing washed his hair. The little guy was perfectly happy and cooperative, kicking his legs yfully in the water.


    The sister was not so well-behaved though. Washing was fine but when it came to the hair wash, she cried from start to finish until they finally pinned her down. She even got Zhi Xia''s clothes all wet.


    After the bath and feeding them milk to sleep, Zhi Xia was soaked in sweat herself.


    After washing up, it was finally time to sleep - past 10 pm already when she checked the time.


    Drowsy, Zhi Xia felt herself being picked up, smelling the familiar scent. Without opening her eyes, she put her arm around his neck and murmured, "Where are we going?"


    "To the next room to sleep." Pei Jing''s voice was clear, instantly chasing away her sleepiness.


    So the saintly man also had mortal desires!


    The lustful side of her was already stirred up. Zhi Xia''s eyes shot wide open, meeting his smiling gaze directly.


    Zhi Xia smiled back. The door opened and closed again. Their hot bodies tangled together, but the wooden bed let out creaking noises - intense yet embarrassing.


    The past gentleness seemed to vanish. Tonight he turned into a wild beast, devouring her mercilessly.


    Never having experienced such intensity, Zhi Xia felt very unustomed. Her body couldn''t take it either, yet the strong desires emanating within made her unable to restrain herself from sinking deeper.


    She didn''t know how much time passed before it finally ended. Her limbs were weak and powerless.


    He was still kissing her, just switching from the previous fierceness to softness and tenderness.


    "When you have time, fix the bed, will you? Such loud noises, I''m afraid people next door might hear." Zhi Xia''s voice was hoarse. She didn''t even want to move a finger.


    "Heh..." His lowughter carried from his lips, hot breath blowing by her ear. "Did you forget how loud your own voice was?"


    Zhi Xia red at him indignantly. "Whose fault was that? You even dare mock me?"


    "I wouldn''t dare. I''m happy." With a slight exertion, Pei Jing''s strong arms flipped their positions. His hands started roaming again.


    "What are you doing? So ticklish..." Zhi Xia tried to grab his wandering hands,ining, "I want to shower. Just washed and I''m all sweaty again."


    "Then we''ll wash againter." She was already sweaty anyway, so what was a little more?


    "That''s not okay either. The noises were too loud." What Zhi Xia meant was that he was too forceful. If his past gentleness was like a light breeze, then now he was a storm she couldn''t withstand with her petite frame.


    Pei Jing stopped his motions, seemingly lost in thought.


    Shortly after, he got up and spread a mat on the floor, pulling the nket down too.


    Her skin was delicate. Direct contact with the mat would definitely rub it raw.


    The long night stretched on, restless.


    Zhi Xia didn''t understand either. How could the previously gentle man who couldn''t even be roused now act so differently, turning into a beast just like that?


    ...


    Zhi Xia awoke to the babies'' cries. Opening her eyes, daylight already streamed in brightly. Checking the time - it was past noon already!


    She quickly fed the babies milk, changed their diapers. Her limbs were weak and limp. Her body felt like it had been steamrolled, hurting all over with the slightest movement.


    Recallingst night, it was unbridled debauchery like never before.


    She couldn''t even remember how many times it happened before she finally fell asleep, only knowing he carried her to shower every time, and even in the bathroom they...


    Afterwards she didn''t even have the awareness to feed the babies, only feeling the powerful suckling at her breast.


    Her fair little face turned red. She hurriedly struggled to get up but nearly crumpled to the floor, her legs gone soft.

 Chapter 156: A Disagreement

    <h4>Chapter 156</h4>


    In the locked room next door, 1234 used condoms were hung up to dry, already washed clean.


    Zhi Xia now had no doubt that if there were not just four, she was afraid she would have died in bed.


    Blushing as she pulled off the condom and threw it in the trash can, it was really uneptable that even this stuff had to be reused.


    When Pei Jing came back, as soon as he walked into the room, he felt Zhi Xia''s resentful gaze.


    The two little ones were full and lying in bed staring at each other, fortunately they were not crying or making trouble which was rtively easy to handle.


    He walked over with a smile and rubbed her head, "What''s wrong? Ufortable?"


    "How can you still say that?" Zhi Xia said coldly, "Do you know? I almost fell when I got out of bed this morning."


    Hearing that she almost fell, Pei Jing became nervous and started checking, "Where did you sleep? Did you get hurt?"


    "I''m hurt, it''s even ufortable to walk, don''t be so excessive next time." Zhi Xia said.


    "Okay." Pei Jing said helplessly: "I don''t know which little girl was unsatisfied with herself a few days ago, and now sheins about me."


    Zhi Xia red at him and covered his mouth to keep him from talking nonsense.


    Pei Jing didn''t tease her anymore, but said, "Your older brother and sister-inw have just arrived, do you want to go see them?"


    "Of course I''m going, why didn''t you say so earlier." Zhi Xia hurried up immediately, and she was full of energy, not like someone who couldn''t stand up at all.


    "What''s the hurry? Didn''t you just say you were even ufortable walking?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "I used some medicine, and now it''s almost better." The medicine pills given to her by the divine doctor sister finally came in handy and were quite effective.


    "Alright, then I''ll stay home with the kids." Pei Jing said, "See if you want to call them over for dinner tonight, so we can get together too?"


    "Then I''ll ask my brotherter, if they have nothing to do, call Zhao Xin and Pei Meng over too." Zhi Xia thought, it would also be a wee dinner for her older brother and sister-inw.


    An Zhiqing''s house was in the front two rows. Watching Zhi Xia run away excitedly, Pei Jing opened the middle door, wanting to put away his baby treasures that were hung out to dryst night.


    As a result, when he opened the door, he found that there was nothing left, and the trash can was empty too.


    Because there was little packaging for goods now, and no household garbage, rotten vegetable leaves were all thrown in a ditch, she was afraid that throwing this stuff out would be picked up by some child, which would be embarrassing, so she threw it directly into the space disposal.


    Pei Jing thought that Zhi Xia might have put it away, but didn''t expect her to have thrown it away, after all, it was still stuff to be used in the future.


    Zhi Xia walked straight to An Zhiqing''s house, and hadn''t even entered the door when she saw Wen Qing ying in the yard.


    Nearly a year had passed, the little guy was already three years old, and had grown a lot taller. At this time, he was wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt and shorts, holding a root of grass in his hand with a dung beetle pping its wings on the grass, causing slight wind movement when ced in front of his head.


    "Wen Qing, having fun?" Zhi Xia teased him.


    But she ignored that the little guy''s memory was still not longsting. After not seeing her for so long, he had already forgotten about this aunt.


    Seeing a strange, pretty sister talking to him, he immediately ran into the house, "Dad, Mom, someone is here..."


    Zhi Xia was stunned for a moment, helplesslyughing as she followed him in.


    There wasn''t much to clean up in the house either, Pei Jing and Zhao Xin had wiped it clean long ago, she just tidied up the things she brought.


    Hearing Wen Qing''s words, Liu Ling quickly turned her head and just saw Zhi Xiaing in from outside.


    "Zhi Xia is here." Liu Ling smiled and picked up her son, saying to him, "Wen Qing, this is your aunt, she knitted you that nice red sweaterst year, do you still remember?"


    Wen Qing nodded heavily, nced at Zhi Xia, and politely called, "Hello, auntie."


    "Wen Qing is so good too, can auntie hug you?" Zhi Xia tentatively reached out to him. The little guy had grown up some, but his body was not as chubby asst year. However, it could be seen that his temperament was still a little shy.


    Zhi Xia thought she would have to wait until he was more familiar before she could hug him, but unexpectedly, he reached out his hands to her. He really had grown up a lot in one year, much more thanst year.


    "Wen Qing is so good." Zhi Xia praised him, but didn''t see her older brother at home, "Sister-inw, my brother is not here?"


    "He went back to the army, he should be back soon, I took this opportunity to tidy up the house first." Liu Ling said, and asked Zhi Xia some recent developments, especially about the boy and girl twins, she had been looking forward to seeing them for a long time.


    All mothers think their children are good, and once they start talking about children, it��s endless.


    There weren''t many ces to clean up, just some detailed work, and Zhi Xia couldn''t help either, so she first took Wen Qing to her house and told him they woulde over for dinner tonight.


    Liu Ling agreed with a smile, after all, they had just arrived, they still had to get acquainted.


    She had been here before too, oftening over during vacations, so she was quite familiar with it already.


    Zhi Xia led Wen Qing back, and Pei Jing had juste out of the kitchen.


    Ever since Wu Shengli asked if his family cooked, he didn''t agree with taking all three meals a day from the space. After all, the neighbors were close by, and others were not fools either. Cooking only asionally could be exined, but inconsistencies were bound to emerge over time.


    However, some tricks could still be done when cooking, just to shut other people''s eyes.


    After eating, Zhi Xia took out the dishes for the evening meal from the space.


    When Pei Jing went out, he passed by and told Pei Meng toe over tonight. As a result, she came in the afternoon and yed here for a while, helping with the cooking.


    Since Wen Qing saw the two little ones, he was full of curiosity, squatting in the house watching them and unwilling toe out. The neighbor''s children also crowded over, Zhi Xia gave them some candy, which happened to save her from watching the children.


    It was almost dark when Liu Ling came, her eyes slightly red.


    "Zhi Xia, where are the kids, let me see them quickly." Liu Ling said with a smile, thinking she had concealed it well.


    Before Zhi Xia could speak, Wen Qing''s voice came from the room, "Mom, they''re here."


    "They''re all sleeping in the room, Wen Qing watched them for an afternoon." Zhi Xia said jokingly to her, "Sister-inw, Wen Qing is so much like an older brother, aren''t you and my brother nning to have another one?"


    It seemed that there would be family nning in a few more years, in fact there was already now, just not mandatory, but in a few years it would be mandatory, especially for public servants, even more stringent.


    "We do n to, it''s just that, as you know, your brotheres back less." Liu Ling had not used contraception since having Wen Qing, but the couple had always been together less and apart more, and there had been nothing.


    After all, when Wen Qing was born, it was two years after their marriage before there was news.


    "Well now it''s good, sister-inwes with the army, I believe I will have another nephew soon." Zhi Xia said.


    But Liu Ling''s smile was stiff for a moment, "The matter of apanying the army is not decided yet, we still have to think about it some more."


    Zhi Xia didn''t expect this result either, after all, her older brother had been pondering this matter for a long time.


    She suddenly thought that her sister-inw''s eyes were red when she came over, could it be that she was at odds with her brother over this matter?

 Chapter 157: Heirloom

    <h4>Chapter 157</h4>


    Liu Ling had her doubts, but she didn''t dare ask outright. She could only indirectly speak well of her eldest brother-inw, "Sister-inw, you don''t know that big brother has been looking forward to your arrival. Since I camest year, he had started applying for a house. The house I''m living in now was the one he applied for back then. It was just that you hadn''t arrived yet at that time, so I moved in first because I was in a hurry. Now that you''re able toe over, big brother must be overjoyed."


    Hearing these words, Liu Ling didn''t know what to think. She was clearly trying to avoid the topic, "Alright, let''s not talk about this anymore. When I came over, grandma asked me to bring you some things. They''re all on the table outside."


    Liu Ling stood up and went outside to get the things, so Wen Qing could only follow along.


    Inside the bundle were two cans of malted milk, a summer dress and a pair of small leather shoes, a pair of pants and a shirt. Grandma had likely considered that Wen Qing needed to breastfeed, so the dress had buttons on it too.


    "Grandma heard that you grew taller and fuller, so she was very happy. She said that you must take good care of your health and not be careless..." The olddy had said this while crying. In her mind, a girl''s height was fixed by eighteen or neen years old. The fact that Wen Qing was still growing meant she must have been undernourished before, and was only growing more now that she was eating well.


    Perhaps it was because of her age that she was prone to mncholy. Thinking about the days her granddaughter had endured made the olddy very distressed.


    As Wen Qing touched the handmade clothes, she felt her nose turn sour. She had wanted to escape so she hade here for a long time, yet she had never thought about going back. She truly felt guilty about the olddy''s love and care for her.


    Suppressing these emotions, Wen Qing smiled and said, "Grandma''s skills are so good. This dress even has an embroidered flower on it."


    Right at the chest area was a hand-embroidered sunflower, beautifully made.


    "This wasn''t made by grandma," Liu Lingughed and exined, "This was made by our family''s old tailor. Now they don''t allow raising embroidery workers anymore, but he still would do it for grandma''s sake. Grandma said her eyesight was going bad so she worried that her work would make her pretty granddaughter look ugly."


    Liu Ling had heard about the past glory of the An family before she got married. After the wedding, grandma had even brought her to get clothes made, though they had to keep it hidden.


    With the men back, the dishes that had already been prepared in the kitchen were brought out.


    In addition to the red braised fish and a bowl of stewed wild chicken and ginseng, there was also a te of lobster tails. The rest were vegetables grown at their doorstep, and a te of salted duck eggs and preserved eggs.


    When Wen Qing had first brought the children back, neighbors who came to visit all brought eggs. She couldn''t finish them all, so she had Pei Jing make preserved eggs. It was their first time making them, but they had turned out quite well.


    An Zhiqing joked, "You two are living quite the good life here. Where did you get the salted duck eggs and preserved eggs?"


    "We made them ourselves. The duck eggs were traded with the nearby vige. If you''re envious, make them yourself. I can provide technical support," Pei Jing said as he poured wine for them. It was the leftover half bottle from when he and Zhao Xin had drankst time. Liu Ling had just arrived, so no one nned to drink too much.


    "You miser. I thought you were going to say you''d give me some," An Zhiqing shamelessly rolled his eyes.


    Liu Ling was sitting right next to him. She picked a chicken leg for Wen Qing to gnaw on, and subtly nced at the wine cup in front of An Zhiqing.


    Although she didn''t say anything, Wen Qing had been watching the two of them the whole time, and clearly saw a hint of displeasure in her eyes.


    Wen Qing nudged Pei Jing next to her and said, "Sister-inw and Wen Qing have just arrived, so there must be many things around the house they need to tidy up. Don''t let big brother drink too much, otherwise he''ll have an excuse to ck off tomorrow. Wouldn''t that leave sister-inw to tire herself out alone?"


    Pei Jing looked deeply at her. Although their marriage wasn''t long, they clearly already had a lot of tacit understanding.


    "Don''t worry, no one can drink much even if they want to. This is just leftover fromst time, so everyone only gets the small cup in front of them."


    Right after Pei Jing spoke, he saw An Zhiqing looking at him thoughtfully.


    Then he nced at his satisfied little sister, and suddenly felt a bit of heartache.


    He and Pei Jing were around the same age and had grown up together since they were little. Although they were best friends, their difference in seniority made An Zhiqing subconsciously somewhat disdainful of him.


    But now, seeing that the other party seemed to have the potential to be a strict husband, while his wife just happened to be his own little sister, An Zhiqing couldn''t help but want tough at him.


    Zhao Xin was also whispering to Pei Meng, "You heard it too. We''re only having a small cup today, it''s fine."


    The two of them had been busy preparing to conceive a child. Although they had been married for some time, there was still no news. Although neither had voiced it, they were both somewhat anxious.


    After all, not wanting children and being unable to have children werepletely different concepts. And since they hadn''t been using contraceptives, it was inevitable they would worry about each other''s health.


    Although Wen Qing was just a child, she ate the fastest. Liu Ling helped wash her little hands clean before she excitedly ran towards the room.


    "Auntie, auntie, little brother and sister are awake..."


    The tender voice came from the room. Wen Qing stood up and told the others, "You guys keep eating, I''m going to check if they peed."


    Because they both had guests today, they had put the babies back in diapers.


    Pei Jing had also wanted to get up but she refused him.


    When Wen Qing entered the room, she saw the two little ones with their eyes open, kicking their little feet. Wen Qing was ying with them, asionally making themugh out loud.


    Wen Qing went over and took a look. Wanqing had already peed, so she swiftly helped change her diaper. Then she went to check on her son.


    This little one actually behaved for once. He hadn''t peed this time.


    Wen Qing was about to help him pee to save herself from washing another diaper, but as soon as she lifted it, the stinky boy peed.


    She was so startled she hurriedly covered the diaper again.


    Watching as the diaper slowly got soaked, Wen Qing could only change it for him. She even angrily smacked his little bottom.


    She hadn''t used much force. The stinky boy thought they were ying and grinned widely while giggling.


    Wen Qing was also crouching there giggling foolishly. She stretched out a finger that was seized by the stinky boy and shook around haphazardly.


    Wen Qing took out candy and melon seeds for him from the cab, "Wen Qing, watch over little brother and sister here. Auntie is going back out to eat."


    "Okay, I''ll watch over little brother and sister well." Wen Qing nodded solemnly, as if he had been entrusted with a major mission.


    Wen Qing wanted to ruffle his hair but remembered her hands had just touched the diaper.


    With a helpless smile, she went to wash her hands first before going back out to continue eating.


    At the dining table, she talked about the embarrassing situation of changing the kids'' diapers earlier, making the whole tableugh. They chatted animatedly using it as a conversation starter, and the atmosphere became very lively.


    Zhao Xin said that he didn''t expect dragon and phoenix twins, and that if heaven blessed them with identical twins he would be satisfied too. An Zhiqing ridiculed him for wishful thinking, saying that dragon and phoenix twins were passed down in their family, and only to daughters not sons. His grandmother and mother were examples. Marrying Wen Qing was a huge advantage Pei Jing had lucked into.


    Pei Meng haddled herself half a bowl of fish soup, but before she could drink it, just the smell made her suddenly feel ufortable. Flustered, she hurriedly ran outside.

 Chapter 158: Every Family has its Faults.

    <h4>Chapter 158</h4>


    Zhao Xin rushed out at the fastest speed when he heard the sound of retchinging from outside.


    Liu Ling was surprised and said, "Mengmeng is probably pregnant!"


    Zhao Xin and Pei Meng were stunned at the door, and huge joy instantly surged in their hearts.


    When Zhi Xia was pregnant, she only asionally felt sleepy, and had no symptoms like wanting to vomit or being unable to eat anything. But she had also heard about it before.


    Zhao Xin supported Pei Meng back, smiling from ear to ear, "Let''s go to town tomorrow to take a look. If you''re really pregnant, then we''ll have to be more careful from now on."


    Pei Meng shyly nodded her head, suddenly feeling like she had finally been blessed by heaven.


    She didn''t care whether it would be dragon and phoenix twins or identical twins, as long as the child was safe and healthy, she would be overjoyed with just one.


    Moreover, identical twins were not so easy to raise. Although it seemed Auntie raised hers effortlessly, it was also because the two children were quite obedient.


    Her maternal grandmother''s sister-inw gave birth to one a couple years ago. The child cried day and night since its first month. She even went to help take care of it for two days, and as a result, even she who was just helping almost had a breakdown, let alone the child''s mother who had to keep watch day and night.


    Because Pei Meng might be pregnant, the atmosphere at the dinner table became even better.


    She also said the child wasing at just the right time. By the time it was born, she could just pick up her uncle and auntie''s diapers and little clothes.


    Because Zhi Xia''s dragon and phoenix twins had to call Pei Meng "elder sister", this seniority would continue into the next generation. Zhi Xia suddenly felt she had earned big time by marrying her little uncle.


    By the time Pei Meng gave birth, she would be someone''s grandmother. It really delighted the 19-year-old her to death.


    After eating their fill, Pei Meng had just discovered she was pregnant, which was a precious time, so Zhao Xin didn''t dare let her help clean up.


    Pei Meng was still a little shy. "I''ve just gotten pregnant, and don''t feel anything yet. It''s not like I''m seven or eight months along with a big belly and can''t do anything. And we''ll have to cook for ourselves in the future. Are you nning to never let me do anything?"


    Zhao Xin was not good at cooking, and it was very rare for men to go into the kitchen at this time.


    So Pei Meng had secretly envied Zhi Xia before, wondering how she got so lucky as to marry such a good man like little uncle, although Zhi Xia was also great, beautiful and a good cook, so little uncle could only be considered as helping out inparison.


    "If you don''t want to cook, we can just go eat at the canteen," said Zhao Xin.


    Zhao Xin''s words instantly made Pei Meng unhappy. "I thought you''d say you''d learn to cook from now on."


    In front of uncle Pei Jing who was both a close uncle and matchmaker, Zhao Xin could only go along and say, "As long as you don''t mind that I don''t cook well, then I''ll learn."


    Only then did Pei Meng be happy again. Having just found out she was pregnant, she was inevitably a little temperamental, and just wanted to be pampered. It wasn''t that she insisted he must do something, but at the very least, coaxing her and making her happy verbally would be good too.


    Seeing their bickering, Liu Ling was also somewhat envious. "Alright, I know you''ve just gotten pregnant so are precious. You guys should head back first. I''ll take care of cleaning up. It won''t take much effort to wash a few bowls."


    Liu Ling started clearing up. Thinking she must be tired from having just arrived, Zhi Xia quickly stopped her, "Sister-inw, you don''t need to help clean up today. My husband and I will tidy up ourselves. You should all go back now since it''ste. I won''t keep you either. Let''s meet again tomorrow."


    "Okay, okay, stop declining. You three go rest. Zhao Xin, Zhiqing and I will do the dishes." Seeing the three politely deferring to each other, Pei Jing said helplessly to Zhao Xin, "Didn''t you say you wanted to learn? Take this opportunity today to learn well. Mengmeng is pregnant and doesn''t have family around to take care of her, so you as the husband have to take on most of the responsibility. Don''t just think about cking off. I''m warning you, don''t let me regret marrying my niece to you."


    Zhao Xin immediately smiled apologetically, "I wouldn''t dare. Besides other things, I''m the most hardworking person, just ask Mengmeng. I''m only not good at cooking, not that I''m unwilling."


    Pei Jing threatened him with a look. "Since you know your cooking is bad, then learn well."


    As an elder and her family, no one had more right to say this than Pei Jing.


    Zhi Xia and Liu Ling smiled at each other and breezily went into the room to apany the children and y. Liu Ling also taught Pei Meng a lot of things from experience, such as diet and morning sickness at the start.


    Zhi Xia didn''t have a say because she didn''t have morning sickness. Perhaps because she already ate well herself, so she didn''t feel any particr cravings when pregnant either.


    In the kitchen, Pei Jing watched Zhao Xin and An Zhiqing work, while acting as supervisor himself.


    Zhao Xin was now in a junior position. Plus his wife might be pregnant, with her family in the limelight, he didn''t dare speak for fear of being lectured. But eldest uncle An Zhiqing had no such reservations. He looked at Pei Jing unpleasantly and said, "We agreed the three of us would work, but now it''s be you standing there watching the two of us work, and this is at your home too. Don''t you feel ashamed?"


    "Why would I feel ashamed?" Pei Jing gleefully looked at him. "I''m teaching you well how to make your wife happy, in case shees for just a few days and ends up angry the whole time."


    If it was someone else with this gloating appearance of beingpletely henpecked, An Zhiqing would surely mock him thoroughly.


    But this was his brother-inw. He was henpecked, and the one enjoying the bliss was his own sister. An Zhiqing could only hold it in even though he disapproved.


    Zhao Xin was surprised and said, "No way, the house application went through already. Didn''t you say you''de to follow the army? How did it be justing for a few days?"


    Pei Jing gloated at An Zhiqing. "Who can you me but yourself for not coaxing her well? With your sour face every day, she''s not a masochist, so who would be happy following you all day?"


    An Zhiqing wanted to be angered to death by his gloating manner. "Shut up! You should really be grateful my sister has a good temper. Add that the child is still small. Try again in a few years when the child starts school. Will you prefer the child attends school in this rural town, or a good education in the city?"


    This sentence silenced both Pei Jing and Zhao Xin.


    There''s a difficult scripture in every family that outsiders can never understand without going through it themselves.


    This was the case for An Zhiqing and Liu Ling.


    Pei Meng came because she was originally undergoing rural educated youth experience, so she had also suffered greater hardships in the countryside and didn''t feel anything in particr aftering here.


    And after Zhi Xia took her revenge, she wanted to get far away from the An family. Plus the joy of having juste back to life, she could appreciate life''s preciousness even more, so she didn''t find it tough here either.


    But Liu Ling was different. She had grown up in Jincheng since young, and her child was also born in Jincheng. The living conditions in big cities were in no wayparable to this small ce, plus the huge differences in temperature and diet between the two ces.


    Northerners didn''t feel bad about going south to live because of the warmer temperatures, but people raised in the south who went to the north, especially in winter, truly felt they could freeze to death any minute.


    Most importantly, she had studied hard and spent huge efforts to obtain a stable job. Once she came here, she would have to give all that up.


    And she might not even be able to stay here forever.


    Wen Qing was three this year and could start school at six. They would have to consider the child''s education situation in a few more years. If they returned to Jincheng, she wouldn''t be able to get her lost job back, so whether to follow the army or not was something Liu Ling kept hesitating over.


    If she didn''te, An Zhiqing could only go back at most twice a year. Discounting the dys from travel, he stayed less than ten days each time. Apart from having a child, her life was just like livingpletely alone.


    An Zhiqing hoped she could bring the child over. He also felt they didn''tck her small sry at home. But to Liu Ling, the stable job brought her more than just a sry.


    When Liu Ling came over this time, she hoped to have another child during the opportunity, considering itprehensively. She didn''t actually want to follow the army because her mother-inw could help care for the children if she stayed in Jincheng, and life would be rtively better.


    Because of this, the couple discussed it many times and also had some disagreements over it.

 Chapter 159: The previous owner must have been crooked.

    <h4>Chapter 159</h4>


    Children are always the biggest soft spot for parents.


    An Zhiqing couldn''t help but reflect on himself, was he really inconsiderate of their needs and feelings by insisting that Liu Linge with him in the army?


    After everything was tidied up at home and they chatted for a while, people had all left, and it was alreadyte into the night.


    After washing up, Pei Jing closed his bedroom door and went inside to call the already half-asleep Zhi Xia, "Where did you put the things I hung to dry in the middle room?"


    "What things?" Zhi Xia opened her eyes hazily, her mind still a little fuzzy for that moment.


    The excessive fatigue fromst night really made her extremely sleepy, even though she had already taken a nap during the day.


    Looking at the man in front of her discontentedly, Zhi Xia suddenly felt that he was going too far. This was a typical case of either not having enough to eat or being stuffed to death all at once, right?


    However, Pei Jing had not yet realized Zhi Xia''s resentment and said, "The things we usedst night. I washed them clean at night and hung them on the hanger in the room. I even locked that room when I left, and left the key on the bedside table."


    Other than Zhi Xia, no one else could have opened the door and touched those things.


    Only then did Zhi Xia suddenly recall throwing away those few small umbres at noon. Recallingst night''s debauchery, her face flushed red all of a sudden, "I threw them away. You even washed and hung up the used ones. Really..." Although she knew that many things could be reused in this era, she still found it hard to ept that kind of thing being reused.


    "You threw them away?" Pei Jing frowned, obviously having a hard time understanding.


    After all, these things could not be easily obtained. They had to go to the clinic in town and could only get two per person with a marriage certificate. He got four because he borrowed Zhao Xin''s marriage certificate. After all, neither he nor Zhi Xia nned to use contraception.


    Seeing Pei Jing suddenly fall silent with a grave expression, Zhi Xia could sense his mood at the moment, which did not seem to be very good.


    She was wide awake in an instant. She curled up softly into his arms and snuggled under his chin, "Don''t be angry, I was just joking with you. I only feel ufortable reusing those kinds of things, that''s all. And I have plenty here that would definitely be enough for decades of use for us."


    Originally feeling very tired, Zhi Xia thought of how Pei Jing had not had it easy these days either. He had to go through intense military training during the day and still had to take care of her and the children when he came home at night. So she wanted to make him happy.


    "How do you have these?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "From my storage space. Some things were originally stored in there. The diapers our son and daughter wear were taken out from there too. I don''t know who stored them before, but they have be so convenient for me now."


    As Zhi Xia spoke, she smiled sneakily, still lying on his chest. But Pei Jing''s face darkened and he said, "Then it seems the previous owner of this space was probably not a decent person either." After all, no decent person would store so many of these things, enough tost several decades of use.


    Excluding the time he was away and couldn''t be home, even using one a day, that would still easily add up to one or two hundred a year, which would be an astounding amount over decades.


    Right after Pei Jing finished speaking, he felt his wife''s gentle kisses turn into dense nibbles. He quickly avoided them and pressed her head back onto his chest, "Be good. If you want to bite, then bite here."


    Leaving any marks on his face would be too embarrassing when going out tomorrow.


    Seeing his firm chest, Zhi Xia bit fiercely into that small red mark, making Pei Jing gasp sharply at the sensation.


    "Ah..."


    Pei Jing picked up Zhi Xia''s entire body and turned to carry her outside.


    "What are you doing?" Only then did Zhi Xia feel afraid.


    "We''re going next door." Pei Jing''s voice was hoarse, clearly showing his arousal.


    Zhi Xia wriggled in his hold, "Remember, just once tonight. Don''t overdo it likest night."


    Zhi Xia thought he had agreed, but failed to notice that he did not respond.


    Zhi Xia nowpletely overturned what she had said before. She finally understood that aroused men, especially older men, were not to be provoked.


    Like an old house catching fire, popping and crackling, impossible to extinguish once aze.


    When he was unmoved, he only felt unsatisfied and tormented by hunger. But once he tasted the satisfaction of having his fill, he was like a starving wolf that found food, and would not rest until he devoured his prey.


    The only dissatisfaction was that he felt the small umbres were too small. Although they were thergest size and seemed to be better quality and more delicate, they did not have the sticity of the ones from the clinic.


    Indeed, the ones from the clinic could be blown up as big as a winter melon. Earlier, some kid had taken one out and caused quite an embarrassing scene.


    The moonlight hung high, also shyly hiding behind the clouds.


    When An Zhiqing and Liu Ling returned home, they let Wen Qing go inside to sleep while they sat outside to talk.


    The unhappy parting that afternoon still left Liu Ling feeling bad inside. Their precious reunion time was already short, and she really did not want to spend it arguing with him. Yet she also feared she could not fulfill his hopes, which would make the affection between husband and wife grow even more distant.


    But unexpectedly, An Zhiqing directly opened his mouth, "Liu Ling, I thought about it for a long time today and decided...to respect your choice. If you are unwilling toe with the army, then stay in Jin City with Wen Qing. The conditions there will indeed be rtively better, and also better for you and our child."


    Liu Ling blinked, barely believing what she was hearing.


    All this time, he had hoped that she woulde. He first brought up this matter even before they had a child, when they first married. She had kept declining only because she could not leave her job.


    In the past, every reunion was joyful, but also somewhat fearful for her, afraid that he would keep bringing up her joining the army, leaving her feeling extremely conflicted and put in a difficult spot.


    In fact, it was also her own fault. Last year when Wen Qing was injured, she had some big conflicts with her inws, and at the time, she did consider joining the army.


    But after the matters passed, upon careful thinking, she regretted it. Yet it left him with empty joy after making so many preparations, resulting in bitter disappointment.


    Although they had an arranged marriage and only met a few times before marrying, after a few years of being together, Liu Ling was also extremely fond of An Zhiqing.


    Aside from their differing opinions on her joining the army, he would give her all his money to manage and care for her and their child. He did not have her father-inw''s chauvinism of never cooking or doingundry, believing those were women''s duties that men should not do.


    Every summer vacation she went over, and when he returned home to visit rtives, they would always consider her feelings first when together.


    With reddened eyes, Liu Ling rushed into his embrace, choking up as she said, "I''m sorry for letting you feel empty joy."


    In the adult world, there were always many helplessness and considerations.


    Not everything could go smoothly. That was life!

 Chapter 160: The title of the Third Grandma

    <h4>Chapter 160</h4>


    "You silly girl, you don''t need to say sorry to me. If we really talk about it, I should be the one to apologize to you and the kids. All these years, I let you stay at home alone taking care of the kids, you must have suffered a lot," An Zhiqing hugged her and sighed.


    "It''s not suffering at all. I think mom has suffered the most these years. She has to take care of the family and help us take care of the kids," Liu Ling said. After all, the rtionship between mother-inw and daughter-inw is not like real mother and daughter. It would be unrealistic to say there is no conflict at all. Fortunately, some trivial matters are not worth keeping in mind.


    Plus all these years when she went to work, it was her mother-inw who helped take care of the kids. Her father-inw had his own job and ie. He only asked her to pay for the meals. Her two younger brothers-inw who already started working also contributed. She really had nothing toin about.


    In fact, her inws also said before that they asked the kids to pay for meals just to show an attitude. The family didn''t really need the money. But they didn''t want the kids to form the bad habit of not contributing. She also thought it made a lot of sense.


    The greatest happiness in life is probably having a partner who can understand each other, that''s what Liu Ling believed.


    She understood his difficulties, and he could also appreciate her dedication.


    Their family is a whole. No matter who contributed more or less, as long as the whole family worked together towards progress, there was no talk about anyone making more sacrifice.


    The next day, Zhi Xia overslept again. Luckily Liu Ling also got upte. By the time she brought Wen Qing to visit Zhi Xia, it was almost noon.


    Zhi Xia was just having lunch. Seeing theme over, she quickly called out, "Sister-inw, Wen Qing, perfect timing. I''m just starting lunch. Come over and eat something."


    "We already ate. You go ahead and eat," Liu Ling smiled and declined. "Zhi Xia, Wen Qing insisted on seeing his little brother and sister this afternoon. I''ll leave him here to y with you for a while. I''ll go back and do someundry. If he wants to go back, just let him go back himself."


    A three-year-old child didn''t need an adult to watch him all the time. He could just y by himself. Also this was a big courtyard. There was no dangerous spot. If he wanted to go out, there were security guards. He couldn''t run out by himself anyway. That''s why Liu Ling felt assured leaving him here.


    With Wen Qing here, he could also help watch the babies. Zhi Xia didn''t need to stay glued beside the two little ones the whole time.


    "Okay, sister-inw go take care of your errands then," Zhi Xia said and took Wen Qing inside. The two little ones just woke up and were staring at each other wide-eyed. Wen Qing immediately let go of Zhi Xia''s hand and ran over.


    Zhi Xia gave him a piece of meat to eat and specially told him not to feed the little brother and sister. Then she went to the yard to check on the vegetables she nted.


    Because the vegetables in the space tasted better, they always had more than they could finish harvesting in the yard. A ripe tomato had several caterpirs in it. Zhi Xia threaded the caterpirs on a de of grass as she picked them out, but Wen Qing saw it and was grossed out.


    Zhao Xin rode a bike to bring Pei Meng back, and happened to return the bike to her here. Zhao Xin quickly turned around to support Pei Meng, both of them grinning foolishly.


    "Really pregnant?" Seeing how silly and foolish they looked, Zhi Xia already guessed.


    "Yes yes." Pei Meng quickly nodded and ran over to hug Zhi Xia''s arm.


    Zhao Xin was scared and hurriedly chased after her, cautiously telling her, "My little aunt, you''re carrying two people now. You can''t keep running and jumping around. Be careful of the baby in your belly."


    "I know, I know. I don''t feel anything. You''re the only one being super careful," Pei Mengined on the surface, but she was super sweet inside.


    Since she had just been confirmed pregnant, it was easy to overlook the belly. The pregnancy was still early, she didn''t feel anything herself.


    Zhi Xia also said with a smile, "Zhao Xin is right to be worried. Now that you''re pregnant, you really can''t keep rushing around like before. You need to be mindful all the time."


    "I know," Pei Meng said to Zhao Xin, "Go take care of your own things. I''ll stay here and watch the two little ones for a bit."


    "Alright, but don''t forget to mind your body," Zhao Xin still couldn''t stop worrying and reminding her, which Pei Meng thought was annoying.


    Seeing how theyughed and bickered, Zhi Xia also felt happy for them. "Just in time, my sister-inw brought two cans of malted milk. I''ll give them to you to take backter to supplement nutrition."


    Malted milk and baby form were hotmodities. Hard to buy without ration tickets. Even harder to find in small towns like this.


    Pei Meng didn''t stand on ceremony with Zhi Xia now. Her face lit up with pleasant surprise as she thanked her, "That''s so great. Let me thank grandma on behalf of the baby in my belly, hehe..."


    Pei Meng''sughter left Zhi Xia feeling conflicted.


    Being called grandma at 19 made her suddenly feel like an olddy.


    When it was the twins'' bedtime, Pei Meng called Wen Qing out and also brought the radio outside to the yard to listen.


    Zhi Xia rarely listened to her own radio herself because she didn''t like how it only picked up a few stations. It was always Pei Meng who turned it on to listen when she came over. Zhi Xia would just sit and chat with her when she was free.


    Hearing the sound, all the neighborhood kids flocked over too, along with idle adults at home.


    Six was already school age, but school was far away. Many kids started schoolter, at seven or eight years old. After all, hardly any adults would take kids to school now.


    That was also why Liu Ling didn''t want to bring her child here. Wen Qing was three now too. Only a few years from school age.


    The little kids sang along with the radio, "Little swallow, wearing flower clothes,ing here every spring..."


    Two months went by quickly. Watching Zhi Xia and Pei Meng''s life together, Liu Ling was moved to stay more than once, even if life would be tougher.


    But looking at her son beside her, she still decided to go back to Jin City.


    If they stayed, when it was time for the child to go to school, they would have to leave anyway.


    As a mother, when there were clearly better living conditions, she couldn''t bear to make her child walk a long way to school everyday, plus the difference in education. She couldn''t say rural schools were bad, but urban education was far superior to rural areas.


    Wen Qing came to y with the babies everyday. After figuring out when they woke up, he starteding over only when they were awake. His feelings for them progressed rapidly.


    On the day they left, Wen Qing cried his eyes out, hugging Zhi Xia''s leg refusing to let go until coaxed and tricked onto the car. It hurt Zhi Xia''s heart to see him like that. She promised she woulde visit him when possible.


    The twins grew very robust. Perhaps because no one yed with them those first few days after Wen Qing left, they just squirmed in bed by themselves. With Zhi Xia''s intentional slow response, they learned to roll over.


    Like opening the floodgates, Pei ChenYe kept rolling in one direction. At first no one paid close attention. He rolled off the bed and bumped his forehead swelling up.


    After that, Zhi Xia didn''t dare leave them alone on the bed. She spread a mat on the floor. But he still managed to roll himself under the table. Stuck against the wall unable to roll further, only then did he start crying. His little hands and feet scratched at the wall wailing nonstop, seemingly determined to bang his head even if the wall didn''t budge.

 Chapter 161: Repressed Cry

    <h4>Chapter 161</h4>


    At this time, Pei Meng''s belly was already showing a slightly rounded bulge.


    With the arrival of the school year, the older children had all gone to school, and the noisy bustle at the door suddenly felt much quieter.


    The autumn wind blew down the leaves, and the vegetable garden at the door had made its best effort to contribute vegetables for several months. Now it had also reached its waning days.


    The eggnts, tomatoes and cucumbers had long been pulled up, and the cabbage that had been newly nted was already starting to head up. The radishes had also grown to the size of a palm.


    There was also a bitter gourd vine entwined around a trellis, still hanging with many old bitter gourds that had started to turn ck.


    Zhi Xia tied a sickle to a stick and knocked down all the old bitter gourds at the top of the trellis.


    Fengxia Lin from next door also came over to help. With the crisp, carefreeughter of children around her, she said, "Zhi Xia, you''ve had a great bitter gourd harvest this year. There are still a lot of old bitter gourds left uneaten. Leave me er for seeds. I''ll nt some vines next spring too."


    "Sure. These are seeds I brought from home. They''re probably a different variety from the bitter gourds around here." The sound of a child waking up came from inside the house. Zhi Xia quickly handed the stick to Lin and said, "The child woke up. Let me go check on him first. I''ll leave the gourds at the top for you. Thanks for your effort. I''ll give you a few moreter. The bitter gourd pulp can still be used to scrub pots and wash dishes."


    The bitter gourd seeds Zhi Xia had were an improved variety from the future that produced long, slender bitter gourds with great taste and high yields. At the peak, the whole trellis below had been hanging full of long bitter gourds. There were so many they couldn''t eat them all, and neighbors hade to pick quite a few too.


    Even so, there were still many old bitter gourds hidden at the top that were only discovered after the leaves had all fallen.


    "That''s wonderful! You go check on your child. Leave this to me." Lin Fengxia said.


    Since it was already agreed upon, Lin Fengxia did not stand on ceremony. "Okay, I''ll take a big one for seeds." She was sensible and did not take all therge gourds, grabbing two small ones for washing dishes as well.


    Some passersby at the door also wanted seeds, so Lin Fengxia let them take some from her portion. There were plenty of seeds in each gourd to share with every household.


    Moreover, the small bitter gourds could also be used for seeds. They were all from the same nt, so there was not much difference.


    Zhi Xia was also in the yard, peeling off the bitter gourd skins. She cut an opening with scissors so the seeds could spill out. Whoever wanted some could grab a handful.


    When Pei Jing came home in the afternoon, he saw that she had finished. The remaining bitter gourd pulp was hanging in the yard to dry. "Why didn''t you wait until I came home to do it?"


    "I happened to take advantage of the twins'' nap time, and Sister Fengxia also had time toe help, so I didn''t spend much effort." He already worked hard enough. Zhi Xia could not wait for him toe home to do everything.


    Besides, she was not doing this because theycked food. She just wanted to find something to do.


    After dinner, Zhao Xin came to call Pei Jing out. Each carried a homemade slingshot.


    The two men often went out together - catching fish and shrimp in summer, and rabbits and pheasants in winter. Last time they even brought back a grass snake, giving Zhi Xia and Pei Meng quite a fright.


    Speaking of Pei Meng, she was also a cause for concern.


    When Zhi Xia was pregnant she had no symptoms at all and never felt nauseous or unable to eat. But Pei Meng was different. The little one in her belly was clearly an active one. Although she had no symptoms before finding out she was pregnant, after confirming it, she began to lose her appetite and vomit frequently. In the past two months, far from gaining any weight, she had lost a whole circle.


    To support her health, Zhi Xia often supplemented her diet, mostly sneaking nutritious ingredients into her food and mixing fruit with staples to make fruit smoothies, at least ensuring she didn''tck nutrition.


    The dragon and phoenix twins now only needed e night feeding, but clearly, her milk was no longer enough for them.


    At times like this, Pei Jing realized the benefits of having the space - she could freely take form from it to feed the children without having to hide it from him.


    After feeding the little oneste at night, the sound of the door opening came from outside.


    Security in the dependents''pound was better than anywhere, easily meeting the requirement of not locking doors at night.


    Zhi Xia was usually tired from taking care of the children and rarely stayed up to wait for him, but tonight she was unusually alert and had not fallen asleep yet.


    She got up, put on her shoes, and opened the door. Sure enough, it was Pei Jing returning, carrying two gray wild rabbits and a pheasant.


    This area was t ins rather than mountains, with wastnds and wild forests nearby. But only small creatures could be caught here, not big game.


    "You didn''t bring everything you caught back to our family, did you?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    "I gave the pheasant eggs and one pheasant to Zhao Xin to take home. These two rabbits are alive. I''m thinking of making a cage for them tomorrow to raise as pets for the kids to y with." Pei Jing said, taking an empty mesh bag from under the table and directly stuffing the rabbits inside before tying up the mouth.


    The pheasant was already dead and had to be cleaned up quickly tonight.


    Half its head was a bloody mess, clearly shot by a slingshot.


    Zhi Xia followed him outside andughed, "Raising them as pets for the kids is fine, but winter is almost here. We''ll probably need to prepare some hay." At the very least, they had to feed them secretly.


    "I''ll cut some by the river tomorrow to dry and store up. If it really doesn''t work out and they can''t survive, we can just kill them for meat." Pei Jing said.


    The water heating on the kitchen stove boiled quickly. Zhi Xia stood to the side holding a shlight and shining it while Pei Jing cleaned the pheasant.


    It was not arge bird, looking especially scrawny after being plucked, hanging under the kitchen hood.


    Shen Hongxing''s suppressed crying suddenly came from the Yang Jun''s next door. The couple nced at each other but didn''t say anything.


    Pei Jing calmly washed his hands and pulled Zhi Xia back into the room.


    Since remarrying Shen Hongxing, although Yang Dawei still seemed simple-minded, her personality had changed greatly, and her life with Yang Jun had been peaceful and happy. No longer were there quarrels erupting every few days like before.


    On reflection, Shen Hongxing was also a pitiful person persecuted by the system.


    This was the first time in so long that Zhi Xia had heard Hongxing crying in the middle of the night.


    "I hope nothing happened next door," Zhi Xia sincerely wished for Hongxing to live in peace. Otherwise, as a close neighbor, she would definitely be the first victim.


    After all, she lived close enough to hear any little disturbance.

 Chapter 162: That鈥檚 the best man in the world for her.

    <h4>Chapter 162</h4>


    Pei Jing looked at her seriously, smiled, and said, "No matter what is going on next door, those are their family affairs and have nothing to do with us."


    "I know, I was just saying it in passing," Zhi Xia said.


    "Since you still have the mind to think about other things, it looks like you are not tired at all..."


    The long night was endless, and with no desire to sleep, they had to find some things to do to pass the time.


    It is said that there are no invincible people in this world, but Zhi Xia felt that this man Pei Jing was just like an invincible one.


    He never seemed to get tired, always full of energy, and no matter howte he slept, he could still get up the next day as usual.


    She could not stand it, and was mocked by him for being both timid and lustful.


    Of course, the fact was indeed the case, it was just that the truth was always so unwilling to admit.


    Zhi Xia did not ask about Shen Hongxing��s affairs anymore, so she naturally did not know that she was sad because of Shen Hongmei.


    Shen Hongmei had left with Fu Yunqi with the intention of living a good life, but she did not expect that she had overestimated Fu Yunqi��s character.


    After leaving here, Fu Yunqi still could not change his yboy nature. Although the Fu family was well off, they looked down on her, a daughter-inw from the countryside. The good life she imagined did note true. On the contrary, she was limited to trivial family conflicts.


    From the beginning Fu Yunqi was still willing to coax her, toter his temper became more and more violent, and even evolved to the point of getting physical.


    Of course, she alone could not beat the Fu family.


    At that time, there was no specific way to deal with domestic violence. Based on the old saying that it is better to demolish ten temples than to destroy one marriage, most people would advise the woman to endure for the sake of the family.


    It was also very tragic to say.


    Moreover, domestic violence breeds more domestic violence. Fu Yunqi started out just losing his temper and getting physical. Later, he would get physical at the slightest displeasure. Shen Hongmei was a lone woman in a strange ce. Other than enduring, she seemed to have no other way.


    When Shen Hongxing received a letter from her younger sister, she really felt heartbroken for her. Sote at night she discussed with Yang Jun to see if there was a way to help Shen Hongmei.


    When Shen Hongmei insisted on being with Fu Yunqi, Yang Jun had persuaded her overtly and covertly more than once. It was clearly for her own good, but she still ended up being rejected.


    Shen Hongmei''s unwillingness to take advice had already ruined Yang Jun''s good impression of her. Moreover, he felt that this aunt was bing more and more unknowledgeable.


    Their family was living a good life now, and he really didn''t want to upset the family again for the sake of others.


    Although Shen Hongmei had been very good to the children before, Yang Jun felt that he had always been good to her too. Now they owed nothing to each other, so he refused Shen Hongmei''s request for help.


    In fact, he did not think he could help at all.


    The Propaganda Group had already lost hope in herpletely, and she had given up that job herself. Yang Jun could not bring himself to ask the group leader to speak for her again. In other aspects, he could not find a suitable job for her either. What else could he do to help?


    Shen Hongxing did not argue with Yang Jun because of this. Although the remarried couple''s life was stable, there was still a crack that had existed. They both understood in their hearts that this marriage could no longer withstand any more shocks.


    She was purely heartbroken for her younger sister. Not daring to show it during the day, she could only cry secretly at the dead of night.


    Yang Jun hugged her in his arms without speaking tofort her. In this world, everyone has their own helplessness. After venting through crying, they still had to get up early the next morning and be busy for life as usual.


    As winter came, the difort of Pei Meng''s pregnancy finally faded away.


    Carefully calcting, they had been married for a year. Zhao Xin took Pei Meng back to Jincheng to visit their elders on both sides of the family.


    Before leaving, Pei Jing wanted to take the children to town to take a couple of photos, to show the elders in the family.


    Zhi Xiained that it was too cold outside, so she took photos with her phone. She took several in a row, with the children sleeping, being naughty, and Pei Chenye''s small face showed Pei Jing''s features when he was not smiling.


    After taking the photos, she printed them from her space onto photographic paper, deliberately changing them to ck and white pixels first.


    Seeing the photos she took, Pei Jing said, "You didn''t take good photos. How could photos taken in a photo studio show them in bed? And you can tell at first sight that these two were taken in our home. Zhao Xin and Meng Meng won''t fail to recognize them."


    "Then should we take the children outside for some outdoor shots?" Zhi Xia thought about it, "It doesn''t seem to work either. You guys are too familiar with this area. They certainly can''t be tricked."


    "Do we have any red or ck cloth that can be used as a backdrop?" Pei Jing wondered. Zhi Xia probably hadn''t been to a photo studio to take photos before, otherwise she would know that except for going out on location, the backgrounds in photo studios were all solid colors.


    There was no such cloth in the house, but Zhi Xia certainly had some.


    Later, Pei Jing pulled out a cloth behind them. It was also the first time he saw Zhi Xia take out her phone.


    After living together for so long, he could clearly guess that Zhi Xia must not be as simple as just owning a piece ofnd. But he did not ask her again.


    In fact, if it wasn''t for Shen Hongmei��s affairs happening right before their eyes, he wouldn''t have wanted to get everything clear. He was just worried that if this girl took out some too obvious stuff, it might reveal ws. After all, Zhi Xia was still very young in Pei Jing''s eyes.


    After taking the photos, seeing Zhi Xia produce the photos in just a few minutes, he couldn''t help but marvel at her space again in his heart.


    But it was just curiosity. Of course there was admiration, but Pei Jing was upright by nature. Not to mention his wife, even if it was a stranger''s belongings, he would not be able to seize them.


    Pei Jing took the photos to Pei Meng. She happened to be home alone, so she asked, "Young uncle, have you and young auntie thought about going back to visit home? It''s been more than a year. No matter how good photos are, they can''tpare to seeing real people. Grandpa must want to see his grandchildren too."


    He probably knew she didn��t like her biological parents, so he didn��t even mention them.


    Indeed, Zhi Xia could dislike her own parents, but she could not disregard the elderly couple who cared for her wholeheartedly.


    "If you want to go back, I''ll go back with you. Otherwise I can''t take both kids back myself," she said. She really didn''t want to see her biological parents, but she was afraid Pei Jing would think she was ungrateful.


    After all, parents who don��t treat their daughters well are not umon, especially for girls�� families. But being unfilial on the children��s part means being ungrateful.


    After speaking, Zhi Xia was stunned for a moment, and said, "Actually, I want to see my fourth brother more. He...doesn''t even know I got married yet."


    If the fourth brother knew that she had been hiding it from him, and even had children, he must be very angry at her!


    She didn''t dare tell him in her letters, just as others were worried, fearing that he would impulsively do unpredictable things in a moment of rashness, which would ultimately harm him instead.


    If possible, she really wanted to find him in person to exin things clearly.


    He was the person in this world who cared about her the most, and she also put him in her heart equally.


    An Zhiang kept his word. Although the allowance for new recruits was minimal, he was afraid Zhi Xia would not have money to spend. He would send money tucked in envelopes to her every few months. Zhi Xia had rejected it a few times to no avail. She could only ept the money for now and save it for him.

 Chapter 163: Would you mind clearing me up

    <h4>Chapter 163</h4>


    Hot tears dripped onto the back of her hand, crashing into Pei Jing''s heart with a hint of panic.


    He hugged her and reversed their positions so that they were facing each other, kissing away her tears. Their faint sweetness lingered as he said, "Don''t cry. Tell me where you want to go and I''ll take you there. I''ll contact them tomorrow to ask about the situation and pick an appropriate time to visit, okay?"


    He knew how important An Zhiang was to her and that it was only a train ride spanning two stations between them. They really should have gone to visit earlier.


    It was just that between Zhi Xia''s pregnancy, giving birth and the children being so young, it was truly inconvenient to travel such a long distance, which dyed things.


    "Mm," Zhi Xia hoarsely nodded, resting against Pei Jing''s shoulder as she thoroughly hid the traces of tears in her eyes.


    She wasn''t that fragile. It was just because they were apart.


    For some matters, if you don''t have hope for them, it''s fine to just think about it. But once you gain hope, you end up constantly longing.


    The two little ones had probably noticed their mother who had been talking to them suddenly ignoring them. Their mouths opened with loud cries as their big eyes blinked nonstop and their little hands and feet waved about vigorously.


    Pei Chenye loved rolling over. Pei Jing had specifically ced him inside with Wanqing, but instead, the little guy somehow flipped over and pinned down half of Wanqing''s body while he was stuck, unable to move up or down. This made his little sister cry loudly.


    Pei Jing quickly reached out to push Pei Chenye off of little Wanqing so the two children could move freely again.


    Zhi Xia also hurried over to hug Wanqing andfort her, "Baby, don''t cry. Your brother was bad to crush our Wanqing, wasn''t he? Should we hit brother as punishment?"


    Zhi Xia made a show of pping Pei Chenye''s bottom, but the little stinker thought she was ying with him and giggled happily.


    Hearing the familiarughter, Wanqing also stopped crying. Her mouth was twisted as if she might start sobbing again at any moment, but she turned her head and startedughing too.


    ...


    He had intended to quickly bring Zhi Xia for a visit, but they didn''t make it in time.


    In the few days after Pei Meng left, heavy snow began falling here.


    Snow fluttering down in droves, bringing intense cold. Time passed swiftly amidst it all.


    Pei Jing held a child in each arm while Zhi Xia carried a bag filled with the children''s items. Their own clothes were stored away in her space, to be taken out when they neared their destination, saving them from the burden of lugging things around until they were half-dead with exhaustion.


    Since they would be getting off after only a short ride, they hadn''t bought sleeper berths but regr seats instead.


    It was an afternoon train. By the time dusk fell, they had arrived at the station.


    Unlike back in Lingjiang City, the train stops here weren''t inside stations but right by the railway tracks.


    Only four or five other people got off the train with them. Once they alighted, they were surrounded by farnd.


    The other passengers asked each other where they were headed, hoping to travel together if they were going the same way. It wasn''t safe nowadays, especially getting off in such deserted wilderness. It wouldn''t be surprising if someone was lying in wait to ambush unsuspecting passersby from the hidden ditches and shrubbery.


    "Comrade soldier, where are you folks headed? Let''s walk together if we''re going the same way," a man asked Pei Jing.


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia were each carrying a child while he held their bag. "Brother, we''re going to..." he started to say.


    But when he named their destination, it turned out they weren''t going the same way.


    "What a pity, we don''t share the route," the man said disappointedly. "Comrade, there has been some disorder around heretely. Even though you''re wearing a military uniform, you still have women and children in yourpany. You must be extremely cautious on the road. Be especially careful to avoid riverside ditches and concealed areas where someone could be hiding and lying in ambush."


    "Thank you for the warning,rade. I''ll be careful," Pei Jing called to Zhi Xia. "We''ll be on our way first then. Safe travels to you all."


    "Safe travels..."


    People of this era really were simple and honest.


    After they had walked some distance, Zhi Xia put the daughter in her arms into her space.


    This was Pei Jing''s first time seeing Zhi Xia make a child vanish before his eyes. He couldn''t help staring in disbelief for a moment.


    Zhi Xia had already reached for the son in his arms. In the next moment, the two children were lying side by side on the bed in her space, along with the bag he had been holding.


    Pei Jing''s hands remained in the carrying posture, gazing at Zhi Xia with profound eyes.


    "It''s gotten quitete. Why don''t we rest inside the space for a bit before continuing our journey?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    "But you said..."


    That''s right. Zhi Xia had told him that people couldn''t enter her space or they would rapidly age.


    Well, she hadn''t exactly lied. "People can''t go in the space, but I''ve furnished a room inside where the effects of time eleration can be blocked."


    "Alright, let''s rest first then." Pei Jing knew she must still be keeping certain things from him. That was good - it would keep him vignt, which favored him the most.


    But he was extremely curious what this so-called "space" actually looked like. Since she had taken the rare initiative to invite him in, he decided to seize the opportunity.


    Zhi Xia grabbed his hand. An intense vertigo overcame his senses and his vision was abruptly swallowed by darkness.


    His body''s instinctive reaction had him shut his eyes. When he opened them again, the scenery hadpletely transformed.


    The spacious sky blue bedroom seamlessly flowed into the built-in cabs lining the walls, with no visible gaps indicating where one object ended and the next began. The cabs were filled with all sizes of items, many of which Pei Jing didn''t even recognize.


    There was also the luxuriously soft andfortablerge bed the childreny on, pink and tender.


    Even someone as widely experienced as Pei Jing couldn''t help a moment of diposure in this situation.


    Zhi Xia said the only area we can ess is within this room. Outside is just farnd, visible only to me.


    Since this came with the trading device, there were no doors or windows built in. So Zhi Xia wasn''t concerned about him finding a way to exit.


    "Let''s go to the kitchen to eat something, then sleep. We''ll continue our travel in the morning," Zhi Xia said, pulling Pei Jing toward the kitchen. The kitchen and dining room were separate spaces. Zhi Xia had set the trading device in the living room to stealth mode so Pei Jing couldn''t see it.


    Long ago while they were still aboard the train, Zhi Xia had started simmering rice and prepared four side dishes plus a soup dish in the kitchen using her mind. Now she just needed to transfer the food to bowls and tes for them to eat.


    However, the cooking utensils and stove that somehow produced fire at the touch of a button left Pei Jing thoroughly shocked.


    He had an intuition that the living standard supported by the technology in this house surpassed even what was avable abroad.


    And there was that humanoid device beside the bed that Zhi Xia had called a nanny robot.


    Now he finally understood why whenever he wasn''t home, Zhi Xia always secluded herself with the children behind closed doors yet imed she didn''t find it tiring at all to care for the two little ones alone.


    Throughout the experience, Pei Jing maintained a silently observant demeanor. Zhi Xia kept gauging his reactions, only feeling relieved when she saw that he seemed merely curious rather than frightened.


    Telling him all this represented an enormous decision on Zhi Xia''s part.


    In the past, she absolutely wouldn''t have believed a man could work his way into the depths of her heart after little more than a year, to the point that she would risk exposing her hidden assets.


    Of course, this was also partly because he was so intelligent. From subtle clues he had already guessed many traces on his own initiative.


    "After seeing all this, do you have any questions for me?" Zhi Xia asked with a smile.


    Pei Jing was in no rush. "What about you? Do you mind rifying some things for me?"

 Chapter 164: Whose Child Are you Holding

    <h4>Chapter 164</h4>


    "If it bothers you, I wouldn''t have brought you here," Zhi Xia said. "Actually, I''m not entirely sure myself, but I just have a feeling that if our country continues to develop, we should be able to achieve this standard of living in the future. Look around here, cooking doesn''t require fire; you can use electricity or gas, and the kitchen utensils even have auxiliary functions. And when youpare it to the conditions in our country before, the trains, cars, televisions, and radios now, don''t these things resemble the technological level of the future?"


    "Yes, they do." Pei Jing nodded. "So, do they have televisions here too?"


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment. "Yes, they do."


    After all, the things shown on television are not from this world. He doubted that he had been reincarnated and even more so now that he could confirm that he had stumbled upon this ce due to some fortuitous opportunity.


    As for where this thing came from, it is also possible to specte that it came from another world.


    Pei Jing took a bite of the meat on the te. It tasted somewhat like chicken, but the texture was even more tender.


    There was another te with meat that was slightly tougher. Every time he ate it, he could feel a warm energy coursing through his body, but it would disappear after a while.


    However, over time, he could feel the benefits. Pei Jing clearly felt that his strength and senses had improved significantlypared to a year ago.


    Zhi Xia probably hadn''t noticed this condition because she found it tiring to chew and preferred to eat the thing she called the Gugu beast. She would only take a piece of the tougher meat to taste its vor.


    Pei Jing hadn''t reminded her before because he wasn''t sure if his spection was correct, and Zhi Xia was also cautious. Normally, when there were outsiders present, they would only eat regr food, and they would have the extra meal only when they were alone.


    He could also clearly feel that since she revealed the secret about this ce, Zhi Xia had be less guarded towards him. She would asionally reveal something new, and this time, she even brought him directly here.


    He didn''t know whether he should say to her that she was too naive or be grateful that he wasn''t a bad person.


    After Pei Jing reminded her, Zhi Xia finally realized that what Huzi had said about the energy in the wild beast''s meat and blood was true. She had thought that the energy she mentioned referred to the kind that was converted from food to meet the body''s needs.


    Pei Jing was afraid that Zhi Xia might identally reveal something in front of An ZhiAng. After all, An ZhiAng was impulsive but not stupid, and their rtionship was extremely close. He even had an intuition that despite him and Zhi Xia living together and having two children, all these emotionsbined could not match An ZhiAng''s position in her heart.


    The reason for this was unclear. Clearly, An ZhiQing, the eldest brother, had always cared for her, but Zhi Xia seemed closer to An ZhiAng.


    Pei Jing felt that this might be because the two of them were twin siblings. Even before they were born, their bond had already been established in the womb, and it was a connection that others couldn''tpare to.


    After finishing the meal, Zhi Xia turned on the bedroom''s television and selected an idol drama, which made Pei Jing furrow his brows in disapproval.


    It''s apparent that the world depicted in the TV drama is filled with skyscrapers, a rarity in reality. Luxury cars, which are scarce in real life, can be seen everywhere in that world. The living conditions of the people inside, their clothing, clearly demonstrate how high the standard of living is in that world.


    Everyone strives for a better life, pursuing the new era, and all of this can be achieved in the future.


    However, the plot of the drama is quite nonsensical and awkward, perfectly fitting the term "braindead drama" coined by Zhi Xia.


    Pei Jing believed he could endure watching it because he was attracted by the captivating scenes and the visions of the future it presented. Inparison to the ck-and-white television at present, the 3D images on this LCD television were truly stunning.


    Already tired and knowing they had a long journey ahead, Zhi Xia turned off the television, only wanting to broaden Pei Jing''s horizons.


    While Zhi Xia had a dreamless night, lying on this incredibly soft bed, Pei Jing couldn''t fall asleep.


    Little did Zhi Xia know that it was precisely because of Pei Jing''s insights that their child''s future career path took a different turn.


    Moreover, if his own circumstances were notcking, Pei Jing even considered giving up his military identity and instead striving for a career in technology.


    He was an exceptional soldier, but there were many soldiers as outstanding as him. On the other hand, a good research project could save the lives of thousands of soldiers and further strengthen his own country to the point where no one could shake it.


    After waking up from a nap, Zhi Xia checked the situation outside and noticed that the sky was already dimly lit.


    She quickly woke Pei Jing up, and after freshening up, the couple left the space, apanied by a vintage bicycle.


    Naturally, it wasn''t the one they bought when they were in the army, but the one Zhi Xia had obtained through trading. Therge-scale farmers had gone to great lengths to find this antique for her.


    However, this bicycle didn''t have a brand mark, and there were some differences in the detailspared to the present time. They could only keep it in the space for asional emergencies and couldn''t openly use it at home.


    The cold morning wind was bone-chilling, and Zhi Xia sat on the back seat, tightly embracing Pei Jing''s waist. He was wearing a military coat and thick leather gloves on his hands.


    When they were close to their destination, the two of them put the bicycle back into the space and took out their child and luggage, continuing to walk forward.


    After about ten minutes of walking, they could clearly hear the sounds of military sentries ahead and the shouts of soldiers during training.


    Pei Jing was still dressed in his military uniform and went to negotiate with the gate sentry. They waited for some time before they saw a figure walking towards them from a distance.


    "Fourth Brother..." Zhi Xia handed their child to Pei Jing and happily walked up to An ZhiAng.


    "You came too, little sister?" An ZhiAng''s eyes lit up as soon as he saw Zhi Xia.


    A couple of days ago, he received a call from Pei Jing saying that they would pass by this area and visit him, but he didn''t mention bringing his little sister along.


    Moreover, Jin Cheng is quite far from here. How did his little sister, a young girl, manage toe all the way here?


    Is it that she was being bullied at home? Wasn''t it said that An Meiyun, that wretched girl, is already dead?


    An Zhiang''s expression shifted from surprise to solemn as he carefully observed Zhi Xia.


    Compared to when hest left, his little sister had grown more beautiful. Her face was no longer thin and gaunt, and she didn''t appear to have been mistreated.


    "Fourth Brother, I missed you so much!" Zhi Xia, her teary eyes misty, embraced An Zhiang tightly before letting go and studying him.


    Fourth Brother had grown darker and thinner. He had also grown taller since theyst saw each other, with Zhi Xia still only reaching his chin. However,pared to his previous cheerful demeanor, he had clearly matured. His gaze was resolute and sharp.


    "Silly girl, Fourth Brother missed you too." An Zhiang reached out and wiped the corners of her eyes with his fingers, his tone unusually gentle. "Don''t cry. Once we endure another nine months, you''ll be able toe home and visit. Take good care of yourself at home, and when Fourth Brother has a break, he''lle back to see you."


    As they were speaking, Pei Jing walked over to their side, holding two children in his arms. Their luggage had to be ced outside the door. "By the way, is there a ce for us to stay in the army? If not, we can go to the town."


    Because the situation in each ce was different, he had already informed An Zhiang beforeing. However, since An Zhiang was still in the early stages of his military service, it wasn''t certain if they could arrange it for him.


    Only now did An Zhiang notice that Pei Jing was also present. He was about to turn and greet him when he saw the two children in his arms, and his eyes widened in astonishment. "Uncle, whose children are you holding?"

 Chapter 165: Somehow I鈥檓 an Uncle.

    <h4>Chapter 165</h4>


    After all, being an elder, Pei Jing felt somewhat embarrassed upon hearing that question.


    The air fell silent for a moment.


    An ZhiAng nced at Pei Jing, then turned to look at his younger sister. Suddenly, he burst intoughter. "I figured it out. These two kids weren''t picked up by you on the road, were they?"


    Just mentioning this topic made An ZhiAng furious.


    Life in the countryside was tough, and there was a strong preference for boys over girls. Some families would abandon their daughters.


    Because of this, there was a specialized infant care center in the county. If a child found on the roadside could be traced back to its family, it would be returned, followed by severe criticism and warning.


    As for those who couldn''t find their families, they would be sent to the infant care center and taken care of by dedicated staff.


    "Young Uncle, we have an infant care center in our county. I asked thepanymander for two days off just now. Later, I''ll apany you to take the children to the infant care center," An ZhiAng suggested. "And thank you for bringing my little sister here. You must have taken her along when you came back home to visit. It''s really troublesome for you to make a detour."


    Upon hearing that the children were going to be sent to the infant care center, Zhi Xia instantly panicked. This misunderstanding was so embarrassing.


    "Fourth Brother, these kids weren''t picked up..." How should she say it? They were born to her and Pei Jing?


    Until now, even in the face of their elders at home, Zhi Xia had never been this troubled.


    However, Pei Jing suddenly spoke up, his words filled with obvious malice. "Fourth Brother, these are your own nephew and niece. On their first meeting, you want to send them to the infant care center. Your performance as an uncle is a bit lousy."


    "Who are you referring to?" An ZhiAng couldn''t believe his ears, his voice clearly raising as he turned to look at Zhi Xia once again.


    Zhi Xia quickly ran to Pei Jing''s side and lightly tapped his arm as a warning, exining, "Fourth Brother, I didn''t have a chance to tell you. I... I got married, and these two children are mine. Just like us back then, they are twins."


    An ZhiAng inhaled sharply, covering his chest with his hand, his gaze fixed on the little hands waving about. They must be around six or seven months old, at least.


    He could certainly tell, after all, he had helped take care of An WenQing when she was a child.


    This meant that when he left, his younger sister might have be pregnant.


    Or perhaps it happened even before that.


    This thought suddenly surfaced in his mind, and An ZhiAng struggled to suppress the expression of disbelief. His gaze became calm.


    Zhi Xia walked over, tugging at his sleeve. "Fourth Brother, nobody bullied me. I''ve been happy and content during this time. As for the children, I''ll exin everything to youter, alright?"


    Not far away is a sentinel, and speaking loudly could easily be heard.


    An ZhiAng could only nod, although he felt uneasy inside, but when he looked at the child, he still put on a brave face.


    He walked up to Pei Jing and reached out his hand. "Let me see."


    Pei Jing handed the little one over to An ZhiAng, reminding him, "Be gentle, the little guy can''t withstand rough handling."


    An ZhiAng skillfully took the child in his arms and nced provocatively at Pei Jing.


    He had experience in holding babies. He had just dealt with An WenQing a couple of years ago.


    The little one was awake, waving its small hands and feet vigorously. It took off its hat and took a nce. It didn''t resemble their own little sister too much, which disappointed him a bit.


    Looking at the child in Pei Jing''s hands, it was almost the same as this one. It was hard to tell them apart.


    "What are their names?" An ZhiAng asked.


    Seeing that An ZhiAng was not so resistant, Zhi Xia became happy. "The older brother is named Pei ChenYe, and the younger sister is Pei Wanqing."


    An ZhiAng''s eyes flickered with a hint of darkness when she said these two names.


    Indeed, the Pei family had done well.


    Because only a few could reach the rank of following the army, amodations were specially provided for those who came to visit.


    Inside a bedroom, the bed and cab were allplete. Pei Jing held the child with one hand and put the bag in the cab. The little one in An ZhiAng''s arms kicked its little legs and twisted its head around as if looking for something.


    "The little one is hungry." An ZhiAng quickly handed the child to Zhi Xia.


    Pei Jing also put the child on the bed. The eight-month-old child could barely sit up, but it was wearing too many clothes at the moment, like a ball, so it could only lie down.


    Seeing that the child was not crying or causing a fuss, An ZhiAng called out to Pei Jing, "Let''s go outside and wait."


    The little one in his arms grew impatient with four fingers and started to whimper.


    Zhi Xia looked at the hesitant Pei Jing and urged, "Then you quickly go out with Fourth Brother. I can handle it myself. I''ll call you when everything''s ready."


    Only then did Pei Jing go out, with An ZhiAng following behind.


    After walking a short distance outside, a sharp wind suddenly blew past their ears. Pei Jing reacted quickly and caught it with his hand, and then the two of them started fighting.


    Among this group of new recruits, An ZhiAng was also outstanding, butpared to Pei Jing, he was still weaker.


    However, at this moment, he was filled with anger and vented it all out through the fight.


    After fighting for a while, Pei Jing realized that An ZhiAng was genuinely angry, unlike the eldest and third brothers. If he didn''t let him release this anger today, it would be hard to get by.


    This kid had always been like this since he was young. When he didn''t provoke him, he would be all smiles and jokes, but once he angered him, he would fight like a wild wolf cub, not caring about the consequences.


    That was precisely why An Family members had kept the news of Zhi Xia''s marriage and childbirth from him for so long, fearing that he would cause a big mess if he couldn''t handle the consequences.


    In the army, things were not like before at home. A moment of impulsiveness could ruin one''s life.


    Pei Jing dodged a blow and was then hit with a punch.


    An ZhiAng also became fierce and followed up with a flurry of punches.


    Sensing that Pei Jing was deliberately going easy on him, An ZhiAng reluctantly stopped and said, "I don''t need you to take it easy on me. If you''re capable,e and knock me down, damn it!"


    Back when he was still at home, there were some reservations. After all, the An Family had a schrly reputation, and An JingZhi wouldn''t let him off lightly if he heard him cursing.


    Since joining the military, he had gained a reputation for being daring and willing to fight. Plus, with no one around to restrain him, he had fewer inhibitions and could truly unleash his nature.


    "You said it yourself, don''t regret it," Pei Jing rubbed his throbbing mouth, twisted his wrist, and heard a crisp sound of bones.


    In the next instant, he charged forward.


    This time, as An ZhiAng wished, he didn''t hold back.


    He had let him off before out of respect for his younger brother-inw. Keeping this matter hidden from him from the beginning was indeed unfair.


    But after the fight, his anger had been vented, and past grievances were settled.


    Now it was time for him to take matters into his own hands and also check his training progress over the past year, to see if this kid had taken it seriously.

 Chapter 166: Got the Upper Hand

    <h4>Chapter 166</h4>


    After returning from outside, both of them were injured.


    Pei Jing had a bruise on his lip, but An ZhiAng was in worse condition, with both his eyes turning purple from the beating.


    The two little ones had fallen asleep after finishing their milk. Zhi Xia, feeling distressed, held onto An ZhiAng and directed a resentful gaze at Pei Jing, saying, "How could youy a hand on my fourth brother? Just look at what you''ve done to him, both his eyes are bruised."


    "I got hurt too," Pei Jing replied. At first, he didn''t fully realize how cunning this kid could be. Since he was the one who got hit first, he tried to strategically position himself to take the blows on his body, so as not to reveal his injuries to ZhiAng.


    But he slipped up with that punch to his lip.


    When they started fighting in earnest, An ZhiAng focused all his defensive strength on his body, leaving his face exposed.


    Fearing he might seriously injure his head, Pei Jing had to restrain his force, which allowed An ZhiAng tounch several surprise attacks.


    So, despite An ZhiAng''s apparent severity of injuries, they were all superficial wounds on his face.


    In contrast, Pei Jing took several punches to his shoulders and got kicked a couple of times, and he was still feeling a dull ache.


    "Your injuries are just minor," Zhi Xia said, looking at the bruise on Pei Jing''s lip, then turning to her fourth brother, who had two panda-like circles around his eyes and two purple patches on his cheeks, even his earlobes looked as if they were bleeding. She couldn''t help but feel heartbroken, on the verge of tears, as she eximed, "Look at what you''ve done to my fourth brother, it''s so severe."


    "You don''t have to worry, little sister. It''s just a few punches, I''m fine," An ZhiAng provocatively looked at Pei Jing, cursing inwardly.


    This old man was well advanced in years, yet he still pursued a rtionship with someone much younger, pitying his tender little sister.


    At such a young age, she had be a mother to two children.


    An ZhiAng also med himself. He knew that his little sister had just returned to that household, so why didn''t he firmly stand by her side?


    If he had been there, he wouldn''t have allowed anyone to easily take her away.


    He was already 28 at the beginning of the year, and this was the first time Pei Jing had suffered such a big loss at someone else''s hands. What a humiliating experience!


    Seeing An ZhiAng acting pitiful in front of Zhi Xia but secretly gloating behind his back, Pei Jing smiled and said, "It was my fault. I went a bit too far, but I wanted to test the training results of my little brother over this period. This was just a minor scuffle between us. In case we have a chance to go to the battlefield in the future, our enemies won''t show you any mercy."


    "Did you evaluate my training results then? How did I do during this period?" An ZhiAng asked, with a sly grin.


    "Not bad, but there''s still room for improvement," Pei Jing replied calmly.


    "Getting such an evaluation from my brother-inw shows that my efforts during this period haven''t been in vain," An ZhiAng said.


    Zhi Xia sighed helplessly and shook her head. She finally understood that these two men were secretlypeting with each other.


    It was understandable for her fourth brother, as he was young and hot-blooded, and he didn''t like seeing someone mistreating her. But why was Pei Jing acting this way?


    "Fourth Brother, now that we''re both married, shouldn''t we change how we address each other?" If someone were to hear him calling himself "sister" and referring to Pei Jing as "Brother-inw," while they themselves were husband and wife, wouldn''t it be aughingstock?


    "Yes, we should definitely change it," An ZhiAng said, looking up at Pei Jing. Although he wasn''t urging him, his meaning was clear.


    Pei Jing really couldn''t stand the look of sess on his face.


    Having too many elder brothers wasn''t a good thing either. The other two were reasonable enough, and there hadn''t been any conflicts in their addresses after discussing it openly. Everyone intuitively avoided using specific terms of address.


    After all, they had been calling each other "Brother-inw" for so many years, and suddenly Pei Jing was being called "Brother." They themselves were not ustomed to it.


    And Pei Jing had always assumed the role of an elder, so suddenly being called "Brother" was a bit awkward for him as well.


    Although he hadn''t confronted Second Brother directly, Pei Jing was confident that he wasn''t the type to stir up trouble.


    It was only Fourth Brother who climbed to the top with adder and yet couldn''t be countered.


    Zhi Xia also held his hand, signaling him to endure.


    Calling Fourth Brother his own was only natural since he had married him, even though the current situation felt a bit awkward.


    Pei Jing let out a sigh, suddenly feeling that he had been too lenient just now. If he had known, he should have expressed his grievances earlier, so as not to be suppressed like this now.


    He lowered his head and looked at his wife, who was smiling at him, trying to please him. Pei Jing also felt that he could endure a bit longer.


    Little did he know that as he watched his younger sister holding hands with Pei Jing and smiling so ingratiatingly, An ZhiAng had to exercise great restraint to keep himself from rushing over and separating them.


    "Fourth Brother," after thinking it through, Pei Jing also felt relieved, his voice clear and gentle.


    They were all family, and they would have to get along in the future. It wouldn''t look good if they fell out, and it wouldn''t be good for Zhi Xia to be caught in the middle.


    When you truly care about someone, in times of trouble, you automatically put yourself in the other person''s shoes to consider the problem.


    That''s how Pei Jing was, and An ZhiAng naturally was as well.


    So, he grinned, revealing a mouthful of white teeth. "Ah, Brother-inw, from now on, I''ll leave my sister in your care. You''re already at such a ripe age, so you must be a bit self-aware and not bully my younger sister because of her age."


    "Don''t worry," Pei Jing said with a stiff face. While others may not say it to his face, praising him as young and promising, with limitless prospects, when it came to these two siblings, he was repeatedly criticized for being older.


    Indeed,pared to a young person in their early twenties, he was already twenty-seven, turning twenty-eight next year. He couldn''t be considered young anymore.


    For the first time, he suddenly felt that he was really getting old.


    Turning his head to look at Zhi Xia, Pei Jing couldn''t help but reflect in his heart. If it hadn''t been for that ident, what would have been the chance of him ending up with Zhi Xia?


    After pondering over it, the final result was zero.


    Looking at his young and beautiful wife, asionally cute and asionally charming, who had also given birth to a pair of twins, he had struck it big.


    Although their rtionship wasn''t exactly harmonious, they weren''t at odds with each other either. Zhi Xia could finally rest assured.


    An ZhiAng took Zhi Xia out for a walk in thisnd, and despite the somewhat bleak winter scenery, Zhi Xia still felt at ease.


    However, An ZhiAng''s questions kepting.


    "Younger sister, did you willingly agree to get married?"


    "Is Pei Jing treating you well?"


    "At home, does he wash clothes, cook, and take care of the children? Are these tasks not shared between the two of you?"


    "Does he hand over all the money to you to manage?"


    At this moment, An ZhiAng found himself caught in a major misunderstanding. In his 19 years of life, ever since he was born, his father had been responsible for working and supporting the family, while his mother took care of the household chores and raising the children. He had never thought there was anything wrong with this arrangement, and he even believed that the division ofbor was perfectly harmonious.


    asionally, he would think that when he got married in the future, he would be responsible for earning money to support the family, while his wife would handle theundry and cooking. It would be a harmonious and beautiful life.


    But when this harmonious and beautiful arrangement was applied to his own younger sister, he felt that something was amiss.


    Earning money to support the family was the most basic responsibility of a man. Otherwise, why would someone marry him?


    Taking care of the children could also be epted, after all, they were one''s own flesh and blood.


    But how could he let his lovely and beautiful younger sister do the trivial tasks of washing clothes, cooking, and household chores?


    Was she so good-looking just to serve others after getting married?


    The more he thought about it, the more upset he became. An ZhiAng held Zhi Xia''s hand and checked it. Luckily, her hand was smooth and fair, without any calluses. It meant that her life was still decent, and she wasn''t being treated like a nanny.

 Chapter 167: Time for Reunion is Always Short.

    <h4>Chapter 167</h4>


    Zhi Xia still didn''t know what was going on in An ZhiAng''s mind. Seeing him holding her hand and looking around, she remembered how he had looked at her with such tender concern when she first returned, his hands covered in calluses and scars.


    The difference now was that he seemed visibly satisfied, with a slight upward curve at the corner of his lips.


    "Fourth brother, my hand has long since healed," Zhi Xia said. "And by the way, you''re bombarding me with so many questions. Which one should I answer first?"


    "Then let''s go one by one, little sister. Stay here for a few more days. Fourth brother will take you out to have fun. Although the weather here is cold, there are still many interesting ces to visit. Fourth brother will take you ice skating on theke, and in a few days, there will be an ice fishing activity," An ZhiAng suggested. He thought that he could take Zhi Xia out to y while Pei Jing looked after the children, which would also give him a chance to assess his brother-inw''s suitability.


    When An ZhiAng found out that he had gained a younger sister, he was excited. But when he learned that he had also gained a brother-inw, he felt a little uneasy.


    Especially since he had been kept in the dark about the fact that they had already had children.


    "He''s a good person, and he treats me well," Zhi Xia sincerely said. "So, Fourth brother, please don''t make things difficult for him. He has been an elder in front of all of you for so many years, and suddenly being demoted makes him feel ufortable enough. Yet, you still treat him this way."


    Zhi Xia felt sorry for how Pei Jing was being put on the spot.


    Moreover, it wasn''t his fault to begin with; it was her own.


    An ZhiAng felt even more ufortable. He pursed his lips and said, "They say that girls are outgoing, but I only took advantage of him with a few words. Yet, he took away my precious younger sister. You feel sorry for him, but what about me? Why don''t you feel sorry for your Fourth brother?"


    "Of course, I feel sorry for you. I love you the most, Fourth brother," Zhi Xia hurriedly replied.


    Although An ZhiAng''s questions were difficult, Zhi Xia didn''t mind at all.


    He cared for her, and that''s why he worried that she might feel wronged and started nitpicking.


    "Besides, it''s not his fault to begin with. If we had to find someone to me for this marriage, it would be my fault. But it''s because he considered my reputation as a girl that he willingly took responsibility in front of our elders," Zhi Xia exined to someone else for the first time. Because An ZhiAng was the person she felt closest to in her life, a closeness that even Pei Jing, the father of her own children, couldn''tpare to.


    During those years when she was a wandering spirit, he had been her pir of support.


    An ZhiAng made her realize that there were people in this world who cared about her, loved her, and evenined because of it. He hadn''t realized this fact sooner and brought her home.


    But precisely because of that, Zhi Xia had a misconception.


    She thought that the people in the An family would all like her because she was their biological rtive, and they were simply unaware of her existence, deceived by others.


    So, when she was reborn, her only thought was to go home and expose everything.


    Clearly, her understanding was wrong.


    Even if she was their biological rtive, not everyone would like her. In fact, they might think that it was her presence that disrupted their peaceful family life.


    After all, all the tragedies and pain in the past life were experienced by oneself alone. In their world, An Meiyun was their obedient daughter, and even if she asionally made mistakes, they could forgive her.


    Zhi Xia sometimes wondered why An Meiyun felt that her life was happy in the previous life, when neither of them had been reborn.


    The attitude of An Meixia''s parents made it clear to her that An Meiyun definitely held a more important position in their hearts,pared to herself.


    Later, it was certain that An Meiyun''s miserable death went unnoticed because she had done unforgivable things repeatedly, depleting all the affection.


    The marriage between An Meixia and Pei Jing was arranged by their parents. They had been married for many years and had only one child, which was obviously abnormal given that there were no issues with their health and they hadn''t been subjected to forced family nning.


    However, Pei Jingter had multiple affairs and became even more unscrupulous, leading to the long-term separation of the couple. In theter stages, An Meixia took her son and went abroad until Pei Jing inherited billions of assets but was unable to match it, and An Meixia''s son returned to take over thepany.


    Calcting it all, both An Meixia and An Meiyun were failures in that life. There was no one better than the other.


    When she mentioned that An Meixia''s life was fulfilled, it was probably in terms of wealth.


    "Younger sister... younger sister..."


    An ZhiAng looked at Zhi Xia, who seemed lost in thought, and waved his hand in front of her eyes.


    "Hmm?" Zhi Xia finally snapped out of it. "What did you say, Fourth Brother?"


    "I didn''t say anything. What Fourth Brother meant to say is that as long as he treats you well and as long as you are happy, I won''t target him anymore," An ZhiAng noticed the disappointment on Zhi Xia''s face and suddenly felt that it didn''t matter who was right or wrong, as long as his sister was happy. "Zhi Xia, Fourth Brother will always stand behind you if you ever feel unhappy. You are not alone now."


    He didn''t know why he liked this younger sister so much, but he just wanted to protect her.


    Third Brother said that some twins have a telepathic connection, and he didn''t have that with Zhi Xia, but he still wanted to make her happy and bring her joy.


    "Yes, I remember," Zhi Xia nodded firmly.


    An ZhiAng brought back lunch from the cafeteria, and the three of them squeezed into a small room and enjoyed the meal.


    Pei Jing could clearly feel that An ZhiAng''s attitude towards him had significantly improved after they went out and came back.


    Zhi Xia had brought a big package for An ZhiAng, filled with food. It contained meat sauce, dried meat, and some dried fruits.


    An ZhiAng''s training was intense every day, and his appetite had grown considerably. He especially loved eating meat. As for the dried fruits with their sweet and sour taste, he could eat one or two, but since his younger sister had specifically brought them for him, he decided to savor them slowly.


    He couldn''t recognize what kind of fruit was used to make them because they had been cut into small pieces. They looked like plums but weren''t as sour and had a sweet vor.


    He particrly loved the beef jerky, andpared tost year, the taste had clearly improved a lot in his younger sister''s cooking.


    It was time for the two little ones to wake up. An ZhiAngined and grumbled, calling it troublesome, yet he couldn''t bear to let go. He even changed Pei ChenYe''s diapers himself.


    However, when it came to holding the children, An ZhiAng clearly favored Wanqing more, as if he was trying to find traces of Zhi Xia''s childhood in her.


    Unfortunately, mother and daughter didn''t look alike. They didn''t resemble each other like twins; they looked more like their father.


    The three adults revolved around the two children, and time flew by quickly. When night fell, An ZhiAng was reluctant to leave, but he had to go.


    Returning to the dormitory with his belongings, several people shared the same living space. There was no way to avoid others'' eyes.


    Helplessly, he had to take out a small portion of the items and share them with others. After all, when everyone received specialties from their families, it was the same.


    Fortunately, he distributed only a small portion, so others simply found it delicious when they tasted it. But if they were to consume it regrly, they would definitely discover the health benefits that these meats and dried fruits provided.


    This resulted in only a rare chance to taste An ZhiAng''s food. In the future, if Zhi Xia gave him anything, he would keep it securely hidden, making sure not a hint of abnormality was detected.

 Chapter 168: Back to Jincheng

    <h4>Chapter 168</h4>


    Pei Jing had already booked the train tickets. An ZhiAng went to see them off that afternoon, taking them to the train station in the canteen truck that went grocery shopping. An ZhiAng insisted on watching them get on the train before going back.


    "Eldest brother, as you can see, someone is taking care of me now. You can keep the money to spend on yourself from now on. You don''t have to send it to me anymore," ZhiXia remembered.


    An ZhiAng also suddenly recalled that his letters were all sent to Jincheng. The letters ZhiXia received were probably forwarded another time from Jincheng.


    So it was like that with second and third brother too. For a whole year plus, going back and forth so tirelessly. It seems everyone else knew except for him!


    An ZhiAng started sulking again. "I''m your fourth elder brother. It''s only right for me to spend money on you. And I have nowhere to spend money now anyway. I''ve never been able to hold onto money since I was little. I don''t even know where I''d lose it if I kept it myself. So you just take it and consider it adding to your dowry."


    He also didn''t know how much dowry the old man at home had given, whether it was enough for his little sister to keep face. If he was there, he would definitely have made the old man give a considerable amount.


    An ZhiAng waspletely unaware that An JingZhi had given an amount, but ZhiXia did not take it.


    She was notcking money, and as for their kind intentions, she could not ept them.


    ZhiXia had also heard that fourth brother always had empty pockets since he was little. Not only could he not hold onto his own money, he would also fleece his brothers. But he also knew his limits, stopping asking eldest brother for money after he got married, and from then on moving on to second and third brother.


    Thinking of this, ZhiXia could not helpughing. "Alright, I''ll save it for you for now. Let me know when you need money someday, and I''ll give it to you then."


    "It''s not like there''s anywhere I need money. You just use it whenever you need to, no need to save it specially." Afraid ZhiXia would be reluctant to spend, An ZhiAng looked left and right, then whispered in ZhiXia''s ear, "Let fourth brother tell you something in secret, something even eldest brother doesn''t know. Our family said everything was donated, but grandfather and grandmother still have quite a lot left."


    An ZhiAng thought even eldest brother didn''t know about this matter, not realizing that as the oldest grandson and pir of the family, the older generation did not keep many things from An Zhiqing.


    Hearing him say this, ZhiXia''s eyes widened. "How do you know about that?"


    Grandmother had told her, but also said only eldest brother knew!


    An ZhiAng smiled slyly. "Well, what can get past these fiery golden eyes of your fourth brother? I''ve known since I was very little. Underneath grandfather and grandmother''s bed there''s a secre..."


    It''s because he was too naughty when he was small. In the cabs under the beds in the house, in grandmother''s words, there were several rat holes, and the rats in the rat holes couldn''t escape his eyes.


    ZhiXia hurriedly covered his mouth. "Fourth brother, don''t say anything more. It would be bad if someone else heard."


    An ZhiAng quickly nodded. "Don''t worry, your fourth brother''s not stupid. I haven''t even told eldest brother all these years, only told you."


    Seeing the siblings whispering to each other, An ZhiAng''s eyes rolling around like a child''s, obviously saying things that shouldn''t be heard.


    But it was unimportant now, he told himself. Marrying a quite young wife, one had to be more epting and allow her some yfulness.


    And she had already told him such a big secret, what more could he ask for?


    He helplessly shook his head and stopped watching the siblings, looking properly after the children instead.


    Fortunately he was quite strong, carrying two children without tiring, allowing the siblings their own space.


    Since fourth brother had told her something so important, ZhiXia also quietly moved closer to him. "Fourth brother, let me tell you something too."


    "What is it?" An ZhiAng asked.


    "Did you notice anything off after eating the meat and fruits I gave you yesterday?"


    ZhiXia''s question made An ZhiAng reflect for a bit. "No? Was there something wrong with the meat?"


    He had tasted a piece of the fruits when ZhiXia first gave it to him. The others were clearly more interested in the meat, so he put the fruits away to slowly eatter.


    "How could there be nothing? Didn''t you feel hot in your body after eating it?" Pei Jing had said so.


    Was it because the meat was dried, so the effects were lost? Or he simply hadn''t eaten enough to feel it?


    ZhiXia regretted a little that she hadn''t tasted more before drying the meat.


    An ZhiAng carefully recalled. "Now that you mention it, I did feel that, here in the lower abdomen."


    And not just him, the others in the dorm had felt itst night too.


    Since the dried meat was quite tough and they drank some hot water after, feeling hot was normal right?


    That''s right, An ZhiAng suddenly realized the heat wasn''ting from his stomach but lower abdomen.


    "I should be asking where you got so much meat from," An ZhiAng knew pork was not easy to obtain, let alone beef.


    "No need to ask where it''s from. Just know it''s a good thing. Don''t share it with others anymore. I made it specially for you with lots of nutrients to nourish the body. Once you finish this, I''ll send more next time. You''ll notice the benefits after eating more of it." ZhiXia had a moment where she wanted to tell him about her space.


    But after thinking twice, she still could not say it.


    Fourth brother was easygoing. If he leaked the secret like grandfather and grandmother''s hidden room under the bed someday, it would be real trouble.


    She should still let him know a little though, since she had good things that shouldn''t bepletely untouched, especially for her best fourth brother.


    "No need to ask then. And don''t push yourself, I don''tck anything to eat here. Just take care of yourself," An ZhiAng had such a carefree personality also because Pei Jing was by his side.


    Although he disliked his brother-inw very much as the eldest brother, he had to admit Pei Jing was quite capable and outstanding. He could fully protect ZhiXia.


    With Pei Jing beside ZhiXia, it put his heart more at ease than leaving ZhiXia in Jincheng.


    With the sounds of the train arriving and whistles urging them to board, they finally got on.


    An ZhiAng watched them onto the train and stood there for a long time until the train left far into the distance before dejectedly leaving.


    Just 9 more months to endure. It was unrealistic for little sister to visit with two children. Fortunately he now knew they weren''t living far. Perhaps there might be a chance to go over.


    An ZhiAng lifted his spirits again and left the station, going through another long journey before finally returning to Jincheng.


    With the new year drawing close, rednterns were hung in the streets, and pedestrians hurried to and fro preparing new year goods.

 Chapter 169: Shit Smells Good

    <h4>Chapter 169</h4>


    After staying in the army for over a year,ing back here, Jia suddenly felt some unfamiliarity, especially for ZhiXia.


    It was just past noon when the two returned home exhausted. At the door, they ran into Pei JianGuo who was just going out.


    "Little uncle, you came back?" Pei JianGuo instantly revealed a delighted expression. But this delight dimmed slightly after he saw ZhiXia behind, "Auntie."


    ZhiXia politely nodded and said to Pei Jing: "Let''s go in first, my arms are sore."


    ZhiXia was only holding her little daughter while Pei Jing not only held their son but also arge bag in his hand.


    Hearing her say she was tired, he quickly nodded, "Okay, I called home earlier to let them know we''d be back so the room should be tidy. You go in and rest first. I''ll go see dad."


    Although Pei JianGuo didn''t like this aunt ZhiXia, it didn''t prevent him from being interested in meeting his new little nephew and niece who had just been born. He stretched his head to look at the child Pei Jing held, "Little uncle, let me hold..."


    The eight month old kid was already very sturdy. He was sleeping soundly in his dad''s arms now so there was no need to worry about holding him the wrong way and hurting him.


    Seeing Pei JianGuo''s longing look, Pei Jing handed over the child to him and even reminded: "Be gentle, didn''t you go to work today?"


    "I had a bit of a headache this afternoon so I took the day off and slept at home until I felt better," Pei JianGuo replied.


    "Then where were you rushing off to just now?"


    "No big deal, just felt dizzy after sleeping so wanted to go out for some air. Or I could''ve just stayed in. By the way, grandpa said you''d be back for New Year. He''s been looking forward to it these days. Right now he must be pottering about his plot ofnd in the backyard."


    As the two men talked, they headed inside. Pei Jing told him, "Then go show grandpa this little guy first. I''ll put the things in the room then join you guys."


    "Sure." Pei JianGuo had just responded when he suddenly felt the hand holding up the child''s bottom grow warm. His body instantly stiffened, the smile also froze on his face.


    "What''s wrong?" Seeing him freeze up so abruptly, Pei Jing had just asked when he saw the hand Pei JianGuo used to hold up the kid''s butt was dripping water.


    He instantly understood what was going on and gave a helplessugh. First he put down the bag in his hand then took his naughty son from Pei JianGuo. He opened up the diaper tucked in the split-crotch pants. His son peed again.


    There was a water pool in the yard so he draped the diaper over it with one hand while holding his child. After checking the pants hadn''t gotten wet, he finally rxed.


    "Nevermind. Please help me carry the bag back first. We''ll take him to the backyard togetherter," Pei Jing said.


    The Pei house was quite big since there were many people living here. Not only were there main houses and side rooms, but courtyards both front and back too.


    Old Pei hade from the countryside so he opened up a plot ofnd in the backyard for a vegetable garden and tobo nts.


    Jincheng''s climate was rtively warm. Even winter had greens that could grow well. The old man pottered around when free, which was also a way to pass time.


    Compared to when they left, the room didn''t look much different now.


    Upon entering, ZhiXia immediately took off the thick cotton-padded jacket she wore. The weather here was still rather warm. Having held a child while walking back, her back was somewhat wet.


    The child had also slept fitfully the whole way back. The moment she was put on the bed, she woke up. Luckily she didn''t pee like her brother had instantly upon opening his eyes. ZhiXia noticed her awakening and quickly carried her to the door to pee.


    The brother in Pei Jing''s arms stretched his hands towards his mom when he saw her carrying his sister, grabbing at ZhiXia''s cor for a moment before she coaxed him to let go so she could head inside.


    The kids were gradually able to understand words now so ZhiXia also talked to them as much as possible. When she had nothing to say, she would read to them by their ears to train theirnguage abilities.


    "They wore too manyyers. I could feel their backs were a bit sweaty. Let''s change them into thinner cotton-padded jackets," Pei Jing said.


    So ZhiXia went to fetch lighter clothing for them to change into. The pair coordinated seamlessly, exchanging a few words asionally.


    Watching his little uncle seemingly be at his auntie''s beck and call, Pei JianGuo felt very unhappy in his heart. But he didn''t dare provoke them so he could only avert his gaze and put down the bag before leaving.


    Old Pei already knew they were back. He didn''t even have his jacket on, just a sweater with a sleeveless vest worn over it. He rushed over anxiously, "Little Jing, ZhiXia, where are my grandkids? Quick let me see."


    Old Pei was a particr man. Considering the room now belonged not just to his son but daughter-inw too, he stood outside despite his impatience, not going in.


    "It''s too hot. I''m changing them into thinner clothes. Come on in, dad," ZhiXia said upon seeing Old Pei waiting outside without entering.


    "Oh." Only then did Old Pei step inside. He saw Pei Jing had just finished putting on the kid''s padded jacket. Those little legs kicked and swung while the little bird also bobbed along, looking very energetic.


    "Ah... Ah..."


    While having his clothes changed, Pei ChenYe didn''t cooperate at all. He iled his arms and legs, kicking and writhing about so much that even ZhiXia couldn''t control him. Only Pei Jing could handle him.


    In just a few seconds, he got the clothes on, even tying the back for him so his fussy hands wouldn''t undo them.


    After tending to the child, Pei Jing turned and immediately frowned deeply when he saw Old Pei wearing just a sleeveless vest. "Dad, you''re already so old yet can''t even take care of yourself. Where''s your padded jacket?"


    "I was working in the backyard just now so took it off because of the heat," Old Pei said unconcernedly as he stretched out his hands. "Hurry and let me hold my grandson."


    Only then did Pei Jing carry over the child to hand to him. "Be gentle. He just peed on JianGuo''s hands earlier. Haven''t pooped yet today."


    "Even my grandson''s crap smells fragrant." It was true that skipping a generation made affections deeper.


    Back when his sons were born, other than feeling happy and aware that he had be a dad when his eldest was born, he didn''t have much feeling for theter ones. Just found them noisy and annoying.


    But now, having grown older and fonder of liveliness, he especially loved new additions to the family.


    Although Pei Meng''s wedding wasn''t held at home, Old Pei had still been very upset upon hearing about it.


    He felt his kids had all grown up and were daughters who would marry out eventually. Meanwhile there was ack of men at home so numbers would only dwindle more in the future.


    Hearing ZhiXia and Pei Jing had birthed boy-girl twins, Old Pei was so happy he grinned even in dreams.


    He didn''t actually think much about gender bias, but the traditional mindset of old folks was firmly ingrained - that girls all marry out while boys bring their wives into the family, developing the n prosperously.


    But Pei Jing didn''t agree with such talk. If not for the family spoiling Pei JianGuo this way all along, he wouldn''t have grown up to be so spineless when faced with problems, always shrinking back timidly.


    The one relief was that this child wasn''t ill-tempered.


    Suddenly, he felt ZhiXia''s insistence to follow the army back then was right. This gave him the chance to nurture the children himself without worrying about them being spoiled at home.

 Chapter 170: Expectations for the Future

    <h4>Chapter 170</h4>


    Old Pei hugged his grandson for a while, then went over to look at his little granddaughter. Only then did he realize that the two children actually looked exactly the same - if you put them together, you couldn''t even tell them apart.


    This was the first time he had seen two people who looked so much alike. For a moment, Old Pei was quite amazed.


    Zhou Nan and Know Summer also looked alike, but their temperaments were worlds apart. Other than their simr facial features, there was not a trace of simrity between them.


    After ying with the children for a while, Old Pei said, "You haven''t gone over to your paternal grandparents yet, have you?"


    "No, we have to take care of these two first before doing anything else. I''m nning to go overter," Know Summer said with an helpless smile. With two little ones to take care of, it was definitely more tiring, but despite the fatigue, she also felt blessed.


    Old Pei had simply wanted to remind them to go visit. Since he knew they were nning to go, there was no need to say more.


    Since the two families lived so close, they should go earlier to let the old master and old madam see their great-grandson and great-granddaughter.


    Otherwise, Old Pei chuckled to himself, he was afraid the old guy and old sister-inw wouldn''t be able to hold themselves back.


    Now that he had grandson and granddaughter to y with, Old Pei brought both children outside to let Know Summer and Pei JingXian freshen up first.


    Pei JingXian was quick - by the time he finished washing, Know Summer had just gone in.


    The weather today was nice. Even though it was already afternoon, rays of evening sunlight still shone through the dense trees into the yard.


    As Pei Jing walked into the living room, he heard the tender voices of children and his father''s livelyughter.


    Sitting on a stool, he asked, "Where are Pei Shuang and Pei Xiang?"


    Pei Jing had only asked casually. It was normal for the adults to be out working. As expected, both were not at home.


    Old Pei nced at him, his emotions unchanged. "The family has split up. Their families have both moved out and now only Jian Guo still lives here."


    "Why so suddenly? Is it because of my sisters-inw..." After the issue with being sent down to the countryside, the already unhappy rtionship between the two branches had beenpletely torn apart.


    "It''s not entirely because of that. We never split up the family before because our Pei family didn''t have a lot of men. Especially after these girls get married, there would only be Jian Guo, the one boy left to carry on the family name. Your second brother and sister-inw don''t have a son either, so we thought it''d be better for everyone to stay together and help each other." As he spoke, Old Pei sighed. No one expected that just because of one opening to be sent down to the countryside, the two branches would bepletely estranged.


    The eldest daughter-inw had never been easy to get along with. In the past, the second branch was willing to let things slide, but after the rift opened, they were no longer willing to indulge each other. The family could never get a moment of peace.


    Since the second brother also talked about wanting to move out and start his own household, Old Pei took the chance to divide up the family.


    "Little Three, you were right that we spoiled Jian Guo rotten in this family."


    Years ago, Pei Jing had brought up this issue to Old Pei before, saying that he himself used to be a ruthless and decisive person. It was only because he had gotten older and mellower as a person.


    With Eldest Brother rarelying back home over these long months and years, as an old man, it wasn''t easy for him to say too much to his daughter-inw. He thought he should just let the children have their own blessings and live one day at a time without meddling too much.


    Now seeing his son was at the age to start his own family, Old Pei regretted not making him toughen up more.


    "Alright, enough about that. Tell me about you and Know Summer. You''re doing fine, right?" Old Pei sighed and said. Pei Jing''s marriage was different since he married the daughter of the An family. He couldn''t not ask about it. "She''s still young so you have to indulge her more. Young girls are more delicate. And don''t keep a stern face all day. Nurture your feelings well with her. For husband and wife living together, it''s good to discuss things..."


    Old Pei nagged on and on. Pei Jing acquiesced to everything.


    Because special circumstances led to their marriage, the three elders in the family were always worried that they wouldn''t get along well or that one of them harbored bad thoughts.


    Although Pei Jing felt their worries were somewhat unnecessary, he also couldn''t disregard their affection.


    In the past, he never had thoughts of getting married. It was also because his upation was special - he was afraid that after getting married, he would have to divide even more attention to take care of the household.


    In the army, he had seen far too many people who could only choose to leave the military in the end because of their wife''sck of understanding.


    Know Summer''s appearance was certainly unexpected and not in his ns. At the beginning, he also had some apprehension. But after truly living together, he discovered that he had actually married a treasure.


    There was no conflict between them at all - whether in life or with the children.


    He would tolerate her ideas. She was also willing to understand his difficulties.


    Even after having two children, it was as if his hands and feet were tied up without the freedom he previously had. Instead of feeling aversion from having to busy himself with the children and household everyday, he looked to the future with great anticipation.


    Sometimes Pei Jing would think that Know Summer and the children were treasures that heaven had deliberately sent him because he was too lonely by himself.


    Seeing that faint trace of a smile that appeared on Pei Jing''s face when Know Summer was mentioned, Old Pei finally felt reassured. His youngest son was also married with children. His life could be considered fulfilled. Even if he died now, it would be worth it.


    Know Summer came in after washing up and changing into a set of clean clothes. Her hair was half dry since it was too dry for her to have just washed it.


    Old Pei handed the children to them. "Alright, hurry up and take them for your paternal grandparents to see. Those two probably still don''t know that you''re back."


    Pei Jing and Know Summer picked up the children. They weren''t sleeping right now and also didn''t have diapers on.


    As for shame, these babies weren''t even a year old yet - they obviously didn''t understand anything. Some children even older than them still ran around outside naked with their bare bottoms.


    Contrary to what Old Pei imagined, the old master and old madam had already known a couple days ago that they wereing back, approximately today. Old Madam had told Mrs. Zhou to keep an eye out early on.


    At the moment, Old Master was standing in the yard peering around, clearly waiting for someone.


    Old Madam and Mrs. Zhou were in the kitchen. Old Madam didn''t know how to cook and could only boss around blindly while Mrs. Zhou good-naturedly answered her but thenpletely ignored her instructions when actually cooking.


    Old Madam didn''t mind as her thoughts had long left the kitchen already.


    "Paternal grandfather, paternal grandmother, I''m back!"


    Hearing the cheerful shout from outside, Old Madam hurriedly scrambled out.


    "Know Summer, quickly let grandmother see my cute little great grandson..."


    "Grandmother, you only care about your little great grandson!" Know Summer passed the child in her arms over and deliberately pretended to pout.


    "You silly girl, you birthed this child yourself. Are you actually jealous of your own child?" Old Madam impatiently rebuked and then carefully looked Know Summer up and down.


    Indeed, like what her mother and maternal grandmother said, she had managed to grow taller even after getting pregnant and giving birth - this really was rare.


    Though, this was good. She had indeed been a little short before.


    After bringing the children inside, Old Master and Old Madam spoke only a few sentences to Know Summer and Pei Jing beforepletely focusing their attention on the two babies, almost forgetting about Pei Jing and Know Summer.


    The couple exchanged a smile. Know Summer pulled Pei Jing with her as they quietly exited the living room and headed towards their own room.


    Opening the door, the room was still neatly tidied up like Old Madam and Mrs. Zhou had prepared in advance, with the folded nkets perfectly stacked on the bed. They probably guessed that Pei Jing and Know Summer might not stay here and so hadn''tid them out.

 Chapter 171: I have a Second Wife

    <h4>Chapter 171</h4>


    The door closed, and Zhi Xia asked him, "Tired from the trip, and not even having a chance to rest when you got home, it''s not even time for dinner yet. Do you want to lie down and take a nap first?"


    On the way, the two of them each carried a child. When all three of them fell asleep, Pei Jing still had to keep an eye on them while Zhi Xia was able to get quite a bit of sleep herself. There were few times when Pei Jing was actually able to close his eyes.


    Having been asked this by Zhi Xia, he did indeed feel a little tired. However, he still asked Zhi Xia first, "What about you then?"


    "I don''t feel sleepy right now, so I won''t keep youpany." Otherwise, if Pei Jing''s grandparents saw, it might not look too good. Also, Zhi Xia''s brain was probably a little excited for some reason right now, so even if shey down, she wouldn''t be able to fall asleep.


    She had a bit of a sleeping problem. When she couldn''t fall asleep, she liked to move her hands and feet around, which would disturb the person next to her from falling asleep.


    "Oh right, I just saw that Mrs. Zhou prepared a lot of things. Grandpa and Grandma also said to have dinner here tonight instead of going back. Should I go let Dad know so he doesn''t expect us to go back?" Zhi Xia asked.


    Pei Jing: "Okay, go ahead then."


    After Zhi Xia went out, she heard the old master calling her, "Zhi Xia, Mrs. Zhou prepared quite a few dishes. Go back and tell your dad toe here to eat tonight. Let''s take this opportunity to drink a few cups."


    That was the only hobby the two old masters had left. Old Man Pei was quite open-minded, but Old Master still had people watching over him, so usually if he wanted to drink a few cups, he''d have to find an excuse.


    Like today for example, there was no better opportunity than this.


    "Alright, I got it," Zhi Xia responded. She had originally still been thinking that after all, it was their first day back and if they ate here tonight, wouldn''t it seem a little neglectful of the other side?


    With Grandpa saying this though, she didn''t need to worry about it anymore.


    Of course, Zhi Xia didn''t know that ever since the two of them left hugging the children, Old Man Pei''s heart had felt like a cat scratching incessantly, constantly feeling like something was missing.


    When he saw Zhi Xiae in, he deliberately peered behind her, "Didn''t little Jing and the kidse back?"


    "No, Grandma and Mrs. Zhou prepared food. Grandpa said to go over and call Dad to drink a few cups together." Seeing the expression on Old Man Pei''s face change from disappointment to excitement, Zhi Xia suddenly felt amused inside.


    People always say someone is childish. When they get old, they really do be like little kids again. It seemed there was a bit of that feeling here.


    "Alright, you go first. Let me get dressed then I''ll go over." Old Man Pei said with augh as he went into the room.


    When Zhi Xia returned to Grandma''s house, she discovered that An Jingzhi and his wife, as well as her two older brothers, had alsoe over.


    Zhou Nan greeted her, to which she also responded with a smile and called out ''Mom''. Then she slipped into the kitchen.


    Zhou Nan''s expression instantly dimmed and her tone carried a hint of loss. "We''ve been trying our best to make amends, yet she''s still like this - neither cold nor hot..."


    An Jingzhi sighed. "Let''s just do our part and leave the rest to fate."


    An Jingzhi understood even more than Zhou Nan. In his heart, he was clearer than anyone that some matters simply could not be resolved with just the word pensation''.


    It couldn''t be denied that there was some regret in his heart. If back then, they had made a resolute decision from the very beginning, perhaps it wouldn''t have resulted in the current consequence of one daughter dead and the other estranged.


    But the fact was there was no medicine for regret. Things had already turned out this way, so they could only ept it with grace. It was just that Zhou Nan had always harbored misgivings in her heart. Perhaps it was Mei Yun''s death that caused her to transfer more of her feelings onto Zhi Xia. She kept hoping that she could gain Zhi Xia''s forgiveness for her biased love and that they could interact like a real mother and daughter.


    Inside the kitchen, it wasn''t just Mrs. Zhou busying about, there was also another girl helping out - dark and skinny, only her facial features were still considered delicate. It felt like if herplexion could be improved, she would look even better.


    "Mrs. Zhou, do you need my help with anything?" Zhi Xia spoke up first and nced at the girl, asking, "This is...?"


    Seeing the slightly awkward expression on Mrs. Zhou''s face as she looked at the girl, she still exined, "You just got back so it''s normal you don''t know. I guess your Second Bro probably hasn''t had a chance to tell you yet. She is your Second Sister-in-Law."


    It was only because Zhi Xia had asked that Mrs. Zhou simply gave a brief exnation and didn''t intend to say more. "Everything''s prepared already and you don''t need to help out anymore either. Caixiang, don''t tire yourself out. You two sisters-inw can go out and chat."


    Wang Caixiang was also secretly sizing up this little sister-inw. She had been in the An family for a while and had heard about the incident where the family''s daughter was switched.


    Only she was used to being timid and afraid the other party wouldn''t like her, not even daring to openly look at Zhi Xia.


    "Zhi Xia, hello, I''m called Wang Caixiang. You can also just call me by name directly."


    She stumbled a little over the sentence and Zhi Xia''s face was still filled with confusion.


    When did Second Brother get married? Even though they weren''t very close, letters still went back and forth frequently between them. It couldn''t have reached the point where he didn''t even notify her right?


    Besides, Pei Jing didn''t know either.


    Third Brother and grandparents'' letters never mentioned this matter either. Something really didn''t make sense.


    "Hello," Zhi Xia responded somewhat awkwardly. In the end, she still didn''t call out ''Second Sister-in-Law''.


    Wang Caixiang was obviously a little let down, her two hands grasping each other seeming somewhat at a loss.


    "Mrs. Zhou, since you don''t need any help, I''ll go out first then." She had originallye in to avoid interacting with An Jingzhi and his wife in the first ce. And now there was inexplicably an additional Second Sister-in-Law in the kitchen, leaving her even more muddled.


    She smiled awkwardly at Wang Caixiang then turned to head out.


    Grandpa and Grandma were also in the yard, a whole circle of people fussing around the two children. Zhi Xia walked up to An ZhiXian and pulled him. "Third Bro, I have a few things I want to ask you. Come out with me for a bit."


    This was the first time Zhi Xia had reached out to him. It should be known that before this, the only person she would take by the hand was Fourth Bro.


    As they walked out, they happened to bump into Old Man Peiing over. "What are you siblings going out for?"


    "Just going to the entrance to talk for a bit," Zhi Xia exined. "Dad, the kids are in the yard. Hurry in."


    Only after watching Old Man Pei go in did Zhi Xia ask, "When did Second Brother get married? Howe no one told me about it?"


    The mocking curvature of An ZhiXian''s lips was very obvious. "In a rush to get here huh. Second Bro hasn''t even taken the woman to heart. They didn''t even hold a wedding. Don''t think too hard about it, no need to bother with that Wang Caixiang."


    The contemptuous tone clearly let her hear Wang Caixiang''s standing in the An family.


    But in response to his exnation that was clearly not one, Zhi Xia sulked, "Forget about not telling me, it''s got nothing to do with me anyway."


    Hearing her obvious anger, An ZhiXian was able to make out her displeasure. "Hey, don''t go. Isn''t it fine if I tell you now?" He quickly grabbed her.


    Even mentioning it now after so many days had passed, An ZhiXian''s gritting of teeth was still very obvious. "That Wang Caixiang was Second Bro''s student. Taking advantage of teaching him, she tricked Second Bro to her house and drugged him with an aphrodisiac. And that''s how things became like this. Her parents threatened the family for a 500 taels dowry, otherwise they would use Second Bro of indecent assault. Dad and Mom''s intention was to give money to avoid disaster and they didn''t want Wang Caixiang as a daughter-inw either, but they took the money and it still wasn''t enough. They insisted on Wang Caixiang marrying into our family and Second Bro conceded in the end, so things are how they are now."


    Of course she did marry in, but since it was a coerced marriage, just how her days were spent could only be personally experienced by Wang Caixiang herself.

 Chapter 172: Help Rejected

    <h4>Chapter 172</h4>


    Wang Caixiang''s presence in the house was clearly problematic, but Zhi Xia did not expect it was for this reason. It really made her want to curse.


    "What did Old Master and Old Madam say?" Zhi Xia wondered. With the means Wang Caixiang used to enter the house, her days here would probably not go well.


    "Old Master and Old Madam don''t know yet. Don''t say anything either. Old Master has always had a temper that can''t tolerate others making trouble over his head. If he finds out that Wang Caixiang is using this method to control Second Brother, he would rather she go report it than be under someone''s control." Although the Old Master looks quite kind now, he was also known for his stubborn temper when he was young. Otherwise, he would not have been able to abandon his family and follow Old Pei to go to war.


    It should be known that at that time, he was the only child of the family, and Old Master valued his descendants very much. So he could support the war with money, but did not want his own children and grandchildren to go to the battlefield.


    People all have the mindset to protect their own. The battlefield was filled with nine deaths and one life, and the city walls built up with blood, tears and bones were where Old Master naturally could not escape themonce.


    Returning to the yard, Zhi Xia could not help feeling a little sympathy for this usually gentle second brother.


    Wang Caixiang was still humble and standing aside, not daring to speak. It was possibly because Old Madam did not know the truth that she was still rtively nice to her, asionally saying a few words to her.


    "What secret were you two talking about? And hiding it from me?" An Zhiren still had a gentle smile, with a schrly temperament that seemed unfitting for his young age.


    "If we didn''t hide it from you, how could it be called a secret?" An ZhiXian said before going to snatch the kids from the other three adults, but unfortunately did not seed.


    The yard was filled withughter and chatter, very lively. Wen Qing ran over to hug An Zhiren��s legs, "Second Uncle, lift me up high..."


    "Lift up high? Second Uncle can''t lift you up, you��re too heavy. Go find Third Uncle, he is stronger and can lift a little dumpling like you!" An Zhiren poked his nose and refused him, but it could be seen that he was very fond of Wen Qing.


    Zhi Xia went over to tease him too, "Wen Qing, do you still remember Auntie?"


    In half a year of not seeing him, the little guy had grown taller again, and had even gotten fatter, no wonder An Zhiren called him ��little fatty.��


    Only when he smiled, his front tooth was missing, which made him look a little funny.


    "What happened to this tooth?" Zhi Xia wondered. Shouldn''t a three-and-a-half-year-old kid be losing teeth yet?


    Liu Ling walked over with a smile, "He got into a fight with another kid... He''s not used to falling down yet."


    The shy child immediately let go of his Second Uncle''s legs and ran over to hug his mother, shouting, "Mommy, don''t say it!"


    "Okay, okay, I won''t say." Liu Ling led him over to Zhi Xia saying, "This is your auntie. The sweater you''re wearing is knitted by herst year."


    In fact, it was already small on him this year, but he stubbornly insisted on wearing it because he liked it so much.


    Speaking of which, Liu Ling suddenly remembered, "Right, Zhi Xia, when you have time, teach me your knitting techniques for sweaters. This kid now likes shy things, he keeps making a fuss about wearing that patterned sweater you knitted for him even though it��s small now and refuses to take it off."


    "Sure. I have nothing to do anyway besides taking care of kids, Sister-inw, juste find me anytime you are free." Zhi Xia said with augh.


    Standing next to Old Madam, Wang Caixiang watched this scene, with envy surfacing in her eyes. But she also knew that she was unwee in this family, too humble to even take the initiative to talk to them.


    "Dinner can be served now." Mrs. Zhou called from the kitchen door, "We got a lot of people today. Old Master, should I take out that big round table from the utility room?"


    The ��big round table�� Mrs. Zhou mentioned was just a piece of table board. Because there were many people in the family, they always gathered together to celebrate every holiday, and as the children grew up and got married and gave birth to more kids, Old Master speciallymissioned a carpenter to build thisrge table board that could be taken out and directly ced on the square table whenever needed.


    "We''ll need to use that big table." As soon as Old Master gave the order, An Zhiren and An ZhiXian hurried off to move the table.


    Zhi Xia also returned to her room, seeing Pei Jing lying in bed with his eyes open, hands folded under his head.


    She sat on the edge of the bed and leaned over to look at him, "What are you thinking about?"


    "Nothing much, is dinner ready?" He just couldn��t fall asleep because it was too noisy outside, but his body was a little tired and he didn''t want to get up.


    "Yeah, since you''re awake let''s get up. We can go back to rest early after the meal."


    After Zhi Xia finished speaking, she was pulled by Pei Jing and stumbled onto his chest.


    "Mm..." She was about to say something but he sealed her lips shut.


    After a brief tangle, he finally let her go, whispering a few words in her ear.


    Zhi Xia was surprised by his idea and asked, "Isn''t it a little too early?"


    "It is early, but it happens to take this opportunity while there are many people at home who can help take care of the kids. Otherwise when we go back to the troops, if Mengmeng has a baby she will have to take care of it herself. It will be toote if there is no one to help care for the children then."


    What Pei Jing meant was to take this opportunity to wean the kids from milk, otherwise when they returned with no one to help take care, the two children would stick to Zhi Xia all day. It would be difficult to wean them off milk then.


    After considering for a while, Zhi Xia agreed.


    The eight-and-a-half-month-old children could already eat some supplementary food in addition to milk. Moreover, her milk supply was low now to feed two children. They were already drinking form mixed with breast milk, so weaning should not be too difficult.


    When they arrived at the dining room, the table had been set up. Sister-inw and Wang Caixiang were busy serving dishes. Zhi Xia also went to help, but didn''t do much.


    There were not many vegetable dishes in winter, but Mrs. Zhou had cooked them skillfully into various vors. Eating the same dishes in different vors was also a way of eating. There was also chicken and fish. Jokingly, Old Pei said to Old Master, "The dishes prepared are so abundant. You old chap didn''t take out all the New Year dishes to eat up now, did you? Wouldn��t that mean we��d have to drink the northwest wind when New Yeares?"


    "You don''t need to worry about that." Old Master red at him arrogantly, "If there really is nothing to eat, I will just have to go to your house to eat then."


    After all the dishes were served, Mrs. Zhou packed some dishes and rice into her own lunch box and said, "Old Master, Old Madam, and everyone please eat and drink enough. I''ll go back first and leave this table here. Just wait for me toe back and clean up tomorrow morning."


    Old Madam responded with a word and let her take home a smoked pork belly from the kitchen, to add a dish for her children at home. Mrs Zhou thanked them profusely again.


    Pei Jing looked around and asked, "Howe JianGuo didn''te?"


    The two families had a very close rtionship. Pei JianGuo was also considered to have been raised by Old Master and Old Madam. So it was not rude for him to ask this.


    Moreover, now it was just him and Old Pei living there. Old Pei was here, so JianGuo would have to cook for himself at home alone.


    "He went out as soon as you guys left. He''s not that young anymore. His mom has been trying to find him a wife recently, just leave him be. He''s a grown man, he won''t starve to death." Old Pei said casually.


    Old Madam immediately followed up saying that she knew several younger rtives that she could introduce to Pei JianGuo.


    The two little ones were quite sensible, sleeping now and not disturbing their meal at all.


    Wen Qing sat right next to Zhi Xia. Pei Jing picked up a chicken leg for him, and at the same time handed another to Zhi Xia.


    The two smiled at each other, the atmosphere of happiness self-evident.


    An Zhiren got up to pour wine. When it was Pei Jing��s turn, Pei Jing said, "I won''t drink with you today. I didn''t rest well on the train and have a bit of headache."


    "Then just pour him a drink. Let them go back to rest after eating." Old Madam quickly said, "The children can drink form right? I saw you brought form. If not, just let the kids stay here for the night. Wen Qing has been dying to see his little brother and sister. It just so happens that he is on holiday. Let your sister-inw stay here with Wen Qing to help look after the kids a bit, so you two can rx for a few days."


    Taking the opportunity, Zhi Xia talked about weaning the children from milk. The two kids could eat now, and Zhi Xia didn��t look fat either, so weaning should be fine. After all, they still had form to supplement.


    As people of some status, it was not a problem for them three old folks to buy some form powder. They could also provide some mary support. So there was absolutely no need to worry.


    Wang Caixiang saw them chatting about this matter, eager to curry favor, and worked up the courage to open her mouth, "Granny, it''s still not very convenient for sister-inw to bring along Wen Qing. Why don''t I stay behind instead? I''ve taken care of younger siblings at home before and know how to look after children too."


    "Let sister-inw bring Wen Qing along to stay behind instead. It''s not convenient for you." An Zhiren suddenly spoke up, catching everyone by surprise.


    Wang Caixiang''s eyes instantly turned red. Old Madam quickly smoothed things over, "You''ve only just entered the family not long ago, it is indeed not suitable for husband and wife to live apart."


    Wang Caixiang understood he simply did not want her to get too close with the family, and had no intention of epting her at all.


    There was a momentary tense silence before An Zhiren nonchntly scooped some braised pork for Zhi Xia, joking, "I heard that ever since you showed off your cooking skillsst time, Mrs. Zhou has been practicing making braised pork. She''s probably afraid you''ll steal her job. Try it and see if she has improved."


    He was never an overly warm person to begin with. Making this effort to serve his sister food now was also because he was afraid his previous words might have made Zhi Xia misunderstand, making her think he was unwilling to help her.


    Although he had also guessed Zhi Xia definitely learned about the situation between him and Wang Caixiang from Third Uncle.

 Chapter 173: Not the Time

    <h4>Chapter 173</h4>


    "It''s really delicious," Zhi Xia would certainly not misunderstand his meaning, very politely took a bite to praise, "You should also try it quickly, don''t waste Zhou''s cooking skills."


    The atmosphere became lively again, and everyone tacitly glossed over what had just happened.


    Anyone with eyes could see that although An Zhiren did not speak coldly to Wang Caixiang, he was ignoring her all the time.


    School was on vacation, An Jingzhi and An Zhiren were also off work, but An ZhiXian''s hospital was terribly busy, after eating he had to go back first, and Zhou Nan didn''t know when they would stop drinking, so she got up and said she would go with him.


    An Zhiren looked up at Wang Caixiang and said, "You should go back with San first."


    Wang Caixiang didn''t really want to, but under An Zhiren''s seemingly calm gaze, she didn''t dare to refute him and just murmured, "Come home early, too."


    An Zhiren didn''t reply anymore and had already turned his eyes away.


    After the three of them left, Grandma also got up, and Liu Ling took the children up too, leaving only those still drinking at the table.


    An Zhiren usually didn''t drink much, and with the elderly he couldn''t keep up drinking either, so he went to find Grandma too.


    Zhi Xia nudged Pei Jing, who hadn''t moved his chopsticks for a while, "You''ve eaten well, let''s go back first too. I''ll go tell Granny."


    "Okay, you go ahead, I''ll wait for you," Pei Jing said.


    They were all admiring the child in the room. Zhi Xia had just walked to the door when she heard An Zhiren ask Grandma, "Granny, do we have any extra quilts at home? I''ll stay for a few days too. You and Grandpa are getting on in years. If the child really kicks up a fuss at night, the two of you can''t handle it. My sister-inw still has Wen Qing, after all."


    Grandma didn''t answer right away, and bowed her head with obvious sadness in her mood, then said, "Yes, we do. The rooms you boys used to use are still there with the quilts still in the closets."


    When they were little they often came to stay on this side, sleeping together as brothers. They were naughty but even Grandpa had to step in to control them.


    But when they grew up and had their own jobs, they didn''te as often. Number four came the most, but he hadn''t been back for over a year since joining the army.


    Old people look forward to family reunions. They''ll see each other less and less as time goes by, so Grandma couldn''t help but me Grandpa for letting the child join the army.


    But she understood in her heart that the child''s future was important.


    The political situation was getting worse and worse. It was under these circumstances that they dared not stand out even more.


    "Then I''ll go tidy up the room first," An Zhiren said as he got up.


    Zhi Xia hurriedly pushed the door open and walked in, "Granny, sister-inw, we''ll go back to rest first. Please take care of the two kids tonight."


    "Go, go. I see these two children are very obedient. Don''t worry. If anything happens we''re close by. Just call out," Grandmaughed.


    After An Zhiren left, Zhi Xia hurried to her side and asked in a low voice, "Granny, didn''t you just say it wasn''t suitable for a newlywed couple to live separately? Howe when Er Ge wants to live here you agreed?"


    Grandma''s smile froze and her expression turned somewhat helpless, "I''m old now. Back then following your grandfather handling family affairs of all sizes, I''ve seen all kinds of people. I can see the problems between your second brother and sister-inw!"


    "So why do you still..." seem to be trying to match them?


    Grandma patted her forehead fondly, "It''s the damned times now. No matter what reason brought them together, they did get married and have to live this life day after day. It''s no good being so antagonistic all the time. It''s not like the old days when you could bring back a concubine you liked to serve and attend..."


    Grandma definitely didn''t sympathize with Wang Caixiang, she felt bad for her grandson. This was why she was being so lenient towards An Zhiren.


    The boy had been gentle since he was little, but very stubborn inside. You could tell from his attitude towards Wang Caixiang that he had been forced into the marriage, but he would never treat her well.


    Living like this would hurt not only Wang Caixiang, but her grandson too! How could Grandma not feel bad for him?


    Liu Ling also understood Grandma''s meaning and asked, "Granny, should we try to lead Wang Caixiang?"


    Wang Caixiang had already been married in for two months, but the family was still indifferent towards her, even hostile. She still hadn''t been able to integrate into the family.


    "There''s no need for that. Unless he gets over it himself, we can''t help with Zhiren''s matters. He doesn''t want Wang Caixiang to be part of the family right now. If you get too close with her, it will only make him more upset." Grandma didn''t exactly like Wang Caixiang either, she just had a softer heart due to old age.


    Anyway, her grandson didn''t want his grandfather to know, so they would pretend not to know.


    She just simply wanted her grandson to be better off, but in the end, it still depended on the two of them. If this knot truly couldn''t be undone, it would just prove Wang Caixiang had gone too far and driven him to desperation.


    What surprised Zhi Xia was that when she walked out of the room, she actually saw An Zhiren leaning against the wall eavesdropping by the door.


    Seeing here out, he smiled and put his forefinger to his lips, signaling her not to speak first.


    The bed in An Zhiren''s room was quite big, obviously specially made, because at its fullest this bed had slept four people - such was the happiness of having a lot of brothers.


    "Er Ge must really hate that Wang Caixiang, right? But are you nning to keep avoiding her like this and swallow this grievance?" Even though there wasn''t much affection between them as siblings, Zhi Xia still sympathized with his plight.


    An Zhiren smiled. He didn''t hide anything from Zhi Xia anymore, and said somewhat self-deprecatingly, "I wouldn''t say I hate her, I just feel like a bit of a failure."


    She was a student he had taught who did this when she was about to graduate.


    Sometimes he would feel a little lucky that he was the victim, yet he still felt very resentful that his life had been dragged into this.


    His tone was clearly dispirited. Zhi Xia hesitated for a moment, but due to their height difference she could only pat his armfortingly.


    In a moment of softheartedness, she gave him an idea, "Wang Caixiang seeded in her plot because she herself has no moral baseline to begin with. For people like this, Er Ge doesn''t need to talk to her about morals either. If you really want a divorce, there are many ways."


    Otherwise just dragging things out like this, the two would only be more and more entangled, which would be harmful and useless to him.


    An Zhiren looked at his little sister in surprise, only then suddenly realizing that perhaps their previous perceptions about Zhi Xia had been wrong.


    Seeing such a gentle and kind little sister, it turns out she also had ws hidden.


    But then again, children raised in that kind of environment were eitherpletely crushed into cowardice and ipetence, or learned to hide their capabilities.


    An Zhiren had never minded his sister being two-faced. He only minded whether the other party''s des were aimed at himself.


    Clearly, Zhi Xia and Gao Meiyun were not the same.


    An Zhiren''s usually closed heart also began to soften a little.


    "Little sister, I''m not a child. I''ll deal with this matter myself, but still, thank you for your concern," An Zhiren naturally understood this reasoning, it just wasn''t the right time for him yet.

 Chapter 174: Awkward Position

    <h4>Chapter 174</h4>


    To live a good life, one must be untainted by any blemish. Besides, his profession cannot afford any tarnished reputation, and Wang Caixiang is not worth risking his future.


    Marriage is not child''s y. He and Wang Caixiang just got their marriage certificate two months ago. If they dare to divorce at this time, whether it''s the authorities or the neighborhood, they would engage in lengthy persuasion and counseling.


    An Zhiren didn''t want to expose his own ugly deeds to others. It was precisely because Wang Caixiang knew this that she dared to make a move, isn''t that right?


    And he was indeed threatened by her.


    Adding 500 yuan to the marriage, it was a profound lesson for An Zhiren.


    A lesson that wouldst a lifetime.


    If Wang Caixiang wants to drag him along, then let her do so temporarily.


    An Zhiren is not afraid. She was able to scheme against him once, but that was only because he sympathized with her.


    Without that bit of sympathy, what ability does she have?


    After chatting with Zhi Xia for a while and seeing the weariness in her eyes, An Zhiren told her to go back and rest early.


    Lying on the bed absentmindedly, An Zhiren couldn''t help but recall that day two months ago.


    Wang Caixiang''s academic performance was rtively good, and outstanding students always receive favor from teachers. Moreover, during this period when most schools were disrupted by student protests, those who didn''t cause trouble and were obedient stood out even more.


    An Zhiren''s ss happened to be this year''s graduating ss. After graduation, these students only had two options: either they had job arrangements or they would go to rural areas for work.


    Wang Caixiang''s situation at school had never been good because her family was poor, and she had extremely poor living conditions. She was also timid andcked self-confidence.


    An Zhiren had encountered several instances of her being bullied by other ssmates and had helped her a few times.


    It was impossible for Wang''s family to let her go to rural areas and be far away from home since they had managed to let her graduate from high school.


    So, before graduation, An Zhiren had already found a prospective husband for her��a middle-aged man whose wife had passed away and who had several children, which An Zhiren only found outter.


    On that day, Wang Caixiang was pushed and fell down the stairs by a few male ssmates. An Zhiren happened to see it and criticized those male ssmates. He also took the opportunity to escort Wang Caixiang, who had sprained her foot, home.


    Considering the fear of gossip, An Zhiren nned to leave after dropping her off at the doorstep. However, Wang Caixiang imed she still had a math problem that she didn''t understand and wanted him to help her with it.


    Confirming that her parents and two older brothers were present, An Zhiren entered the house and exined the problem to her in front of her parents.


    Everything seemed fine. Wang''s mother warmly served him a cup of hot tea. The weather was very cold that day, and he didn''t have any guards up, which resulted in his downfall.


    When he woke up, both he and Wang Caixiang were lying naked in bed, and Wang''s two older brothers burst in and tied him up with a rope.


    He still remembers it vividly. He was wearing only his underwear, and he was tied up and dragged to the courtyard.


    The wind was cold, chilling his body, and his heart turned cold as well.


    An Zhiren was forced by his father to make a choice: either marry someone by paying 500 yuan or be pushed out so that everyone could see how he truly behaved as a teacher. The mere thought of it still filled An Zhiren with shame and anger to this day.


    He had never experienced such humiliation in his life before.


    If his feelings towards Gao Meiyun were merely disgust, his feelings towards Wang Caixiang had turned into deep resentment.


    Ironically, Wang Caixiang believed that he could soften An Zhiren''s heart and gain his forgiveness by trying to please him.


    It was trulyughable.


    He would never pity her, no matter what she went through now. It was all a consequence of her own actions and choices.


    An Zhiren appeared gentle and refined, but in reality, he had a strong sense of pride. How could a person like him, who had endured so much humiliation and maniption, simply let the other party off the hook with just a divorce?


    Wang Caixiang had orchestrated this marriage herself, so she should bear the consequences.


    His younger sister was still too kind-hearted, thinking of people as inherently good.


    Little did she know that the situation between him and Wang Caixiang had escted beyond a simple divorce.


    It was no longer a matter of Wang Caixiang refusing to let him go, but rather him refusing to let go of Wang Caixiang and her family.


    One day, he would return all the humiliation they had inflicted upon him.


    At home, Zhou Nan was annoyed when she saw Wang Caixiang standing in the yard, always hunched over as if unable to straighten up. She said irritably, "Are you trying to annoy everyone? This is not your house alone. Who are you scaring by standing in the yard like that?"


    Wang Caixiang trembled for a moment and turned around, saying, "I''m going back now."


    In the living room, An ZhiXian wore a disdainful smile.


    Zhou Nan asked him, "What''s wrong with your second brother? With a family like the Wangs, it would be easy to deal with them using some means. Why bother marrying her and keeping her around all the time?"


    The family only knew that An Zhiren had been threatened but had no idea that he had been stripped naked and dragged into the yard.


    The Wang family probably didn''t care about Wang Caixiang either. If they hadn''t gone too far in the first ce, An Zhiren wouldn''t have developed such a deep sense of hatred.


    In fact, the Wang family''s intentions were quite simple: to trample An Zhiren''s dignity into the ground in order topletely control him, including using him for their own purposes in the future.


    If An Zhiren had been even the slightest bit weak, they would have seeded.


    "I don''t know the details about my second brother, but it won''t be long before he can''t stand it anymore. He has already applied for a house from the school and should be moving out after the Chinese New Year," An ZhiXian said with full knowledge. He never pitied Wang Caixiang and only saw her as deserving of her fate.


    You reap what you sow, and the Wang family was a bunch of bad people.


    An JingZhi and Zhou Nan were unaware that An Zhiren still cared about his face and felt ashamed of being stripped naked and threatened.


    Since Zhou Nan had some minor health issues after herst hospitalization, she couldn''t handle emotional fluctuations too well, as they could easily cause her to faint.


    Knowing that her son had already fainted once due to being manipted, she feared that learning about the full extent of the maniption would make her copse on the spot.


    An Zhiren had indeed made ns, and An ZhiXian knew about them.


    In this household, the eldest brother is righteous, the fourth brother is impulsive, while the two in the middle arepletely different from them. They have always had a close-knit attitude, showing respect to the eldest brother and affection towards the fourth brother. And now, there is someone new, Zhi Xia, who is willing to be cherished by them.


    But when something truly happens, these two are undoubtedly each other''s first confidants.


    Zhou Nan was shocked when he heard that the second son was nning to move out.


    However, upon reflection, he decided to let it be. It''s better for him to move out. Out of sight, out of mind.


    Wang Caixiang''s position at home is awkward. The second brother doesn''t allow anyone in the family to talk to her. She can''t count on any help from her own family and instead has to be on guard at every turn. It''s quite exhausting.


    Zhi Xia called Pei Jing back and asked when they got home, "What''s the matter with your sister-inw?"


    It was only during dinner that Pei Jing learned about this person and noticed that An Zhiren''s state of mind was clearly off.


    Zhi Xia then exined everything she knew to him, and Pei Jing listened with deep sympathy.

 Chapter 175: Children Hook People

    <h4>Chapter 175</h4>


    The night was still quiet. Probably because they had been drinking a mix of form and breast milk for a long time, stopping it abruptly didn''t make the children too ufortable.


    But ZhiXia was suffering a bit.


    Even with little milk, her chest was still swollen and painful through the night, feeling as heavy as if two bricks were hanging on it.


    ZhiXia got up a bitter. When she went out, Pei Jing said, "Pei Xiang came by earlier, but heard you were not up yet so she hurried to school, saying she''de to find you after school, and have lunch here too. Sister-inw and Second Brother will probablye over too."


    ZhiXia responded with a disgusted "um", and asked him, "Did you go next door to check on them? How are the kids?"


    After taking care of them for so long, she still worried about them even though it had only been one night.


    "Wen Qing was ying with them, nothing really happened, but my daughter cried when she saw me in the morning, kept wanting me to hold her. Mother kicked me out." Pei Jing said helplessly with augh. Then he quietly asked her, "How are you? You don''t look too good."


    In addition, even with the thick clothes, the two bulging lumps on her chest were too conspicuous. He touched them when he got up, they were quite hard, a bit scary.


    ZhiXia sighed, "I''m fine, just feel swollen and ufortable."


    And this situation got even worse by noon, she also started leaking milk.


    She had padded two thick cotton pads inside, which made her already big chest even more noticeable. She was so embarrassed that she didn''t even dare go out.


    Pei Jing was also very worried, but he couldn''t help with this kind of thing.


    Sure enough, Wang Yue came with her daughter at noon, Pei Sheng came with his wife Jiang Su and Pei Meng. Eldest Brother Pei Yong was still serving in the army and rarely came back once a year and a half.


    ZhiXia hurriedly tidied herself up and changed into a slightly fat flower cotton jacket. Although the rather tacky flower pattern made it look a bit vulgar, it didn''t look bad on her at all.


    She had no choice, her chest was too swollen, she could only wear something loose.


    After greeting everyone, Pei Xiang pulled ZhiXia to her room. "Little auntie, long time no see, you look so beautiful now. If not meeting you at home, I wouldn''t even recognize you if I saw you outside!"


    "You still have such a sweet mouth." ZhiXiaughed happily from thepliment.


    Pei Meng was quite curious about Lingjiang City''s side, and asked about Zhi Xian''s situation. Anyway her little mouth kept bbering without stopping, but it wasn''t annoying at all.


    In the yard, Wang Yue eximed, "ZhiXia and XiangXiang''s rtionship is quite good. Seeing how intimate they are, running into the room as soon as meeting."


    Jiang Su rolled her eyes, "We''re all family, it''s normal to have good rtions. This shows XiangXiang likes her little auntie, and little auntie is likable."


    Seeing them about to fight again, Pei Sheng quickly pulled his wife over, "Let''s go see how sister-inw Zhang has prepared lunch. We still have work in the afternoon, better eat now or we''ll bete."


    Ever since People''s Daily published the notice on "Abolishing old customs, no Spring Festival holiday", they couldn''t even rest on big festivals and still had to work as usual.


    At the kitchen door, Jiang Su pped Pei Sheng''s hand away, "Keep being so weak! Must let people shit on our heads right?"


    Pei Sheng was also helpless, "The family is divided. How often can we still gather in the future? It''s rare for little Jing and ZhiXia toe back. It''s a joyous day, what will Father think seeing you two fight like this? Let''s just swallow this once for their sake? I''ll make it up to you when we get back okay?"


    Only then did Jiang Su calm down a bit, "Alright alright, I''ll give little brother and ZhiXia some face today."


    Wang Yue looked at her useless daughter, whispering: "Didn''t you see Pei Xiang went over already? Why don''t you follow along to take a look?"


    "Look at what? I''m not even familiar with her." Pei Shuangshuang curled her lips. No matter how good-looking ZhiXia had be, she still couldn''t get rid of her countryside bumpkin status.


    She didn''t even know what Grandpa and little uncle were thinking, letting her be their aunt. Her mom was the same, she actually considered letting An ZhiXia be her sister-inw before.


    The more Pei Shuangshuang thought about it, the more disgusted she felt. In her eyes, An ZhiXia wasn''t even good enough to be her sister-inw, let alone her aunt.


    And the generation gap between them was so big, she even wanted to marry Zhi Xian brother before?


    With their families so close, she definitely wouldn''t be bullied if she married over. But now with this rearrangement, she didn''t even dare bring it up anymore.


    This really pissed her off!


    That little rascal Jian Guo didn''t even listen to her and kept rejecting her ideas. If he did, with Grandpa An and Granny''s guilt towards An ZhiXia, the An family would at least owe them a share in the future.


    But now, everything was cheap for little uncle.


    Outsiders didn''t have her inner twists and turns in mind. And she couldn''t voice out these obvious ulterior motives, which led to Wang Yue''s mediocre attitude towards ZhiXia. Yet she also feared ZhiXia had gotten some benefits that were all taken by the second branch, so she wanted her own daughter to get close to ZhiXia again.


    But Pei Shuangshuang wasn''t someone who would listen obediently. Having grown up well-fed, she naturally wouldn''t lower herself for imagined benefits and get close to someone she disliked.


    At best, not causing trouble for ZhiXia could already be considered very good.


    Part of this was also because ZhiXia was now their elder, Pei Shuangshuang could still try to get attention among peers, but couldn''t be disrespectful to elders. Otherwise her grandfather, little uncle, and dad who came back only once a year would teach her a lesson.


    Pei Xiang originally wanted to take ZhiXia out shopping before New Year''s, but ZhiXia''s swollen chest was too ufortable so she declined with kind words, saying they could go some other time after New Year.


    But they both understood clearly, the market would only open on the 5th day of New Year, and by then ZhiXia would be hurrying back already with no time at all.


    The two children were like hooks at Grandpa''s, once there in the morning they wouldn''t budge. Grandpa even squeezed in to freeload lunch without affecting the children''s schedule, only waiting until they fell asleep before reluctantlying home, then soon going over again after a short break.


    The three elders were still quite healthy, taking care of two children was no trouble at all. Zhi Xian couldn''t even help much. Liu Ling was also free enough toe find ZhiXia.


    Also, Wen Qing was reluctant to leave his siblings either and stuck around instead of following her.

 Chapter 176: The Menace

    <h4>Chapter 176</h4>


    For a full 4 days, it was still swollen and painful even though it was already the day before the new year.


    The olddy told her that she could squeeze the breast milk out now. At this point, even if her milk hadn''te back in, the milk would not continue as much as before.


    Indeed, as the olddy had said, with the burden on her body gone, ZhiXia finally felt like she was alive again.


    Pei Jing was trimming red paper to write spring couplets at the door with Pei JianGuo, and many neighboring families who knew them also brought pre-trimmed red paper for him to help write on. ZhiXia took a look outside, the uncle and nephew weren''t idle, An Zhiren was also helping.


    Pei Jing''s brushstrokes were very steady and slightly sharp. It''s said that one''s calligraphy reflects their character. An Zhiren''s was softer inparison. Pei JianGuo''s was more childish.


    However, truly discerning people were few. Most could only tell who''s calligraphy was more pleasing to the eye.


    Old Pei came from a humble background andter studied when he joined the army. But he could only write with pencils and pens, he couldn''t pick up the writing brush.


    That skillful calligraphy of Pei Jing was taught by Grandpa Ann back in the days. Naturally it was superb.


    Liu Ling held little Wanqing in her arms as she came out to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Not having seen ZhiXia for several days, the little one immediately spotted her mother among the crowd and let out a loud wail, reaching out wanting to be carried.


    These past days ZhiXia only dare go take a look when she''s asleep. Seeing her cry now, she felt extremely distressed and hurriedly went over to pick her up.


    "Baby be good, don''t cry... Mommy hugs..." ZhiXia coaxed.


    But she stretched out both little ws to randomly grope at her chest, also rubbing her little head against it, like a greedy little piglet.


    Liu Lingughed uncontrobly. She said to ZhiXia, "She saw you and her milk cravings acted up again. But you have to endure, otherwise these days of effort would be wasted."


    ZhiXia was about to say something when the little one suddenly grabbed a handful of her hair.


    Possibly because she couldn''t eat, she was somewhat vicious.


    Liu Ling hurriedly helped pry open her little hand. "This little one, she grabbed your hair but it''s nothing. What if she injured her little hand!"


    A child''s skin is delicate. Not knowing her own strength when grabbing something, a single hair could cut her.


    Seeing that she couldn''t obtain milk, the little one bawled incessantly, also making ZhiXia extremely distressed.


    Recalling others'' experiences of weaning a child in her past life, ZhiXia suddenly had an idea. "Sister-inw, let me bring her back for a bit first. I''lle find you guys after."


    "Alright, you have to endure. I''ll bring WenQing back first too. Juste straight to granny''s ceter, not having seen you for so many days, ChenYe must miss his mommy too."


    So many days had passed. As long as she endured, she could stopctating. And she couldn''t not see her children for so long either.


    After ZhiXia went back, she picked a sour fruit from her space and smeared some on for Pei Wanqing to eat. She smacked her lips with a twisted expression, indescribable. ZhiXia deliberately teased her to eat more but she refused no matter what.


    Indeed this method was very effective.


    Carrying her child she went next door. When Pei ChenYe saw ZhiXia, he reacted much the same as Pei Wanqing. But not longing for breast milk anymore, he didn''t suffer his sister''s near tooth-lossing experience.


    Wang Caixiang ran in anxiously from outside. Ignoring the joyful atmosphere indoors, she knelt at the olddy''s feet as soon as she entered. "Granny, granny I beg you, please help me. I know I''m at fault, my family is also at fault. You can ask of me anything topensate. Just please talk to Zhiren, ask him to spare my family..."


    The old man concealed his smiling expression, carrying Pei ChenYe up. "I''ll go see where WenQing ran off to."


    With such a disturbance, the smile also vanished from the olddy''s face. "Speak, what happened with Er''zi at your ce?"


    "My... my second brother, both his legs are broken..." If it was just broken legs, she wouldn''t suspect An Zhiren.


    But to be stripped naked and thrown onto the streets,bining with what happened in their yard previously, she couldn''t not associate it with An Zhiren.


    "Did Zhiren do it? Did anyone see?" The olddy''s breath quickened, even her voice was clearly much louder.


    "No... no one." But aside from him, no one else would do that.


    Her mom called her back home and directly pped her twice, forcing her to ask the An family for an exnation, to ask for money inly speaking.


    Otherwise, she would expose her and An Zhiren''s premarital intimacy.


    That would ruin not just her but also An Zhiren''s reputation. The school would not allow someone of tainted reputation to be a teacher.


    Although she was coerced to plot against him initially, she also truly admired him. She really didn''t want to see him ruined.


    But she also understood that An Zhiren extremely detested her. She wasn''t brainless like her family either. She clearly knew, for him to dare do this, he must''ve already made preparations and wouldn''t be easily coerced anymore.


    Yet no one believed her words. Her parents and eldest brother only knew to demand money ceaselessly. She couldn''t find anyone to help her, only the olddy who was still reasonably amiable to her.


    The olddy finally breathed in relief now. "Since no one saw it, what basis is there to say Zhiren did it?"


    Wang Caixiang couldn''t exin clearly. She even less dared to let the An family know the humiliation An Zhiren once suffered at her ce, otherwise even the only one still treating her passably, the olddy, would likely be unable to tolerate her then.


    Seeing the anxious look on Wang Caixiang''s face, the olddy said, "Caixiang, how do you want me to help you?"


    "I..." Her mom said, at least 200 yuan must be paid. But how could she say those words?


    "Caixiang, there are some things that I, this olddy, also don''t wish to say too bluntly. But I think you should be clear in your heart about how this marriage came to be." The olddy''s face was stern, it had been a long time since she revealed such rigid looks. "One''s offspring have their own fortune. You all aren''t small children anymore either. Zhiren agreed to take you into the family, the grandfather and I respect his decision, but you mustn''t take others for fools, understand?"


    Wang Caixiang''splexion instantly darkened.


    Granny knew? She actually knew?


    Did that mean, this house''s only one still treating her passably would also dislike her, look down on her?


    Wang Caixiang''s "not bad" merely meant she didn''t bother her. Because whether in the Wang house or aftering to the An house, aside from little WenQing who didn''t understand matters due to his young age, not a single one had spoken a proper sentence to her. That just made the olddy seemparatively kind.


    Yet she didn''t know that to a woman who plotted against her own grandson, and the mismatch between them was so obvious too, how could the olddy like her? It was only because she was experienced and used to not revealing emotions on her face. She was also used to concealing her disgust deep down.


    "Granny, I truly apologize. I also had no choice..." Wang Caixiang wept bitterly.


    Everyone understood the rationale. It was merely picking on the weak.


    The olddy had indeed mellowed out a lot these years from not meddling in matters. Her temper had softened considerably too.


    Feeling irritated, ZhiXia hurriedly went to pour her a ss of water to moisten her throat, then helped the olddy back to her room to rest.


    Liu Ling carried little Wanqing in her arms. When ZhiXia returned to the living room, Wang Caixiang was still kneeling there weeping.


    ZhiXia sighed. She felt it was self-inflicted misery. "Don''t continue crying here. Grandpa and granny are old in age and have long stopped minding household trivialities. You also heard granny, she said to resolve your and Er''zi''s matters yourselves. Don''te bother the elderly."


    Stumbling, Wang Caixiang got up from the floor and dejectedly turned to leave.


    The olddy didn''t actually go rest. She only felt vexed from her crying and left when she did. Seeing Wang Caixiang gone, she came back out again.


    The old man also returned, the child in his arms given to Old Pei. The two men entered the study, the olddy following along too.

 Chapter 177: All We Know

    <h4>Chapter 177</h4>


    Not long after, the sound of banging on the table came from the room. Even through the door, the muffled sound was still clear, indicating the amount of force being used.


    Zhi Xia initially wanted to go and see, but she was stopped by Liu Ling. "Don''t go. The Wang family might have done something. If we go over and identally hurt your second brother''s reputation..."


    Zhi Xia realized that Liu Ling was right.


    Everyone has their own privacy, hidden corners they don''t want others to know about.


    If they identally stumbled upon it, it would put her second brother in an even more awkward situation.


    Fortunately, after a short while, the door was opened.


    The olddy seemed a bit listless and was supported by An Zhiren.


    The old master seemed fine, but his cold expression was somewhat intimidating.


    "Wen Qing''s mother, bring a pill from the tea cab for your grandmother," the old master instructed, and Liu Ling hurried to fetch it.


    These pills were sent by Zhi Xiater on. The initial batch had already been consumed.


    After taking them for a long time, both the old master and the olddy felt the effects. The pills not only nourished their bodies but also calmed their minds. They were indeed a good thing.


    Under the care of her daughter-inw, the olddy swallowed the pill, and she immediately felt much better. "These two children are almost weaned. Zhi Ren, tidy up and take your sister-inw back with you. Your grandmother hasn''t been feeling well these past few days. You go back and have your wifee over to take care of this olddy for a few days."


    An Zhiren hesitated for a moment and nodded, "Yes, I''ll listen to Grandma."


    He understood very well that this so-called "taking care" was not as simple as serving tea and pouring water in the eyes of others.


    The old master and the olddy already knew the whole story. Their opinion was that An Zhiren should handle the matter with the Wang family on his own. After all, he was not young anymore, and going through such experiences would be beneficial to him.


    But Wang Caixiang was different. Being kept under An Zhiren''s watchful eye for a long time would easily influence him.


    A person with malicious intentions can scheme once, and they can strike again.


    There''s no thief that can be guarded against for a thousand days. If Wang Caixiang ends up conceiving a child, things would be difficult to handle.


    Since Wang Caixiang insisted on entering their An family, then let her see how easy or difficult it is to enter this door. The olddy would treat her as an additional servant and make her regret it one day.


    After An Zhiren and Liu Ling reluctantly left with Wen Qing, Zhi Xia walked over and expressed her concern, "Grandma, now that the situation has already happened, there are solutions. You shouldn''t get too angry. It''s not good for your health."


    In front of her own granddaughter, the olddy seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and sighed, "I''m not angry. I''m worried about your second brother. This child has always been introverted and never actively troubles others. Who could have expected him to encounter such a situation? The Wang family truly has not a single good person. I was foolish enough to think that since the marriage had already happened, we should let them go with the flow. Bah, the older one gets, the more confused they be. I almost did something foolish."


    Don''t even mention that Wang Caixiang knows that Lao Er doesn''t have such intentions towards Wang Caixiang now, even if he does, she cannot agree.


    Afterforting the olddy, the topic shifted to those medicinal pills. Zhi Xia only mentioned that she got help from a physician she met in the countryside, who also gave her a medical book. She passed it on to San Ge, and the family knows about it.


    The olddy also mentioned that thanks to the medical book she gave, San Ge cured an important person and has officially be a practicing doctor. Furthermore, he has been studying the medicinal pills that Grandfather and the olddy are currently taking. However, due to the unique method of production, he can only identify a few main medicinal ingredients but is unclear about the specific form.


    Zhi Xia is not surprised by this. It''s their family''s expertise after all. ording to the divine physician sister, she has been reciting medical verses since she could speak. It has been passed down through many generations and took more than 20 years of effort. How can San Ge understand itpletely in just over a year?


    Pei Jingteng made time to pick up Zhi Xia and Wanqing, coincidentally passing by An Zhiren and Wang Caixiang who wereing over.


    Wang Caixiang still looked happy. Zhi Xia thought that it probably wouldn''t be long before she couldn''t even find a ce to cry.


    The table with the written couplets at the entrance was still there, but only a few people remained.


    Pei Lao asked him, "Is your grandfather okay?"


    That old man hurriedly called the child back just now, and from his expression, it''s unclear what happened.


    "Nothing serious." Even if Pei Lao were to know about this matter, it should be conveyed by Grandfather and not leaked from her.


    Zhi Xia knows her limits.


    Wanqing was being held by Pei Jingteng, so Zhi Xia went to take Chenye from Pei Lao''s arms. "Dad, let me carry him back, so as not to disturb you here."


    "Alright, I haven''t been close to you these past few days. The little guy also misses his mom." It was obvious that as soon as Pei Chenye saw his mother, he bent over and reached out, making sounds resembling "mom" with his mouth.


    Back in the room, probably because they hadn''t seen each other for several days, both little ones wanted to be carried by their mother, and Pei Jingteng seemed somewhat redundant.


    With only a pair of hands, she couldn''t carry them both, so she took off her shoes andy in bed with the three of them.


    Since mid-afternoon, there had been asional sounds of firecrackers.


    Pei Chenye was brave. After a slight daze, he became excited and crawled into Pei Jingteng''s arms, reaching out to go outside.


    Wanqing, on the other hand, was much more timid and was scared, rushing into Zhi Xia''s arms. It took a long time to calm her down, but she still couldn''t befortedpletely.


    Pei Jingteng took the eldest child outside, and Sister Zhang came over when she heard the children crying, properly helping to call their souls. "Wanqing... Soul,e..."


    She waved her hand outside, reminding Zhi Xia, "A child''s soul is unstable. If they get scared, quickly help them call their soul, otherwise, they might lose their soul."


    Zhi Xia smiled and responded, "I understand, thank you, Sister Zhang."


    Sister Zhang handed the child to Zhi Xia and said, "Then I''ll go prepare the New Year''s Eve dinner first."


    Sister Zhang still has her mother-inw at home, so she doesn''t have to worry about everything and can prepare here before going back to have a meal directly.


    Grandfather gave her a fish and meat two days ago, giving her plenty of face, so she''s not afraid of being criticized when she goes home.


    As everyone returned, Pei Jing told her at the door, "There are fireworks outside, cover the child''s ears."


    Since Chenye wasn''t afraid, he thoughtfully closed the door for the two of them and held Chenye in his arms to watch the fireworks.


    He covered the child''s ears with one hand and watched the fireworks in the courtyard crackling and bursting into sparks. The little one kicked his legs excitedly and kept babbling. As a result, a drool dribbled down his chin and smeared on Pei Jing''s chest.


    Pei Jing cast a disdainful nce at her own chest and started to numb herself. She reminded herself that she gave birth to him and couldn''t be disgusted.


    Pei Jianguo, who had set off the fireworks, inadvertently noticed the situation here and curiously walked over to amuse the little one. "This little brat has quite the courage. Do you like fireworks?"


    Today, Chenye clearly understood a lot of words, and he knew that fireworks were things that exploded. As soon as he heard those two words mentioned, he became excited and stomped his feet, but he couldn''t speak, so he could only make "mhm" sounds.


    Seeing his excitement, Pei Jianguo also found it amusing and ostentatiously took out a big firecracker. "Little one, watch as your brother sets off a big firework for you to see."

 Chapter 178: Eating Too Ugly

    <h4>Chapter 178</h4>


    Pei Wanqing and a double kick were also called a double st cannon. They sted one on the ground and one in the sky, and they could also st fireworks.


    Zhi Xia also covered Wanqing Pei''s ears and came out, just in time to see the gorgeous colors st open in the sky.


    It was also Pei Wanqing''s first time seeing this stuff, and she didn''t feel scared anymore. Her small eyes stared straight ahead, staring nkly for a long time.


    Pei Chenye was different. He was addicted to seeing it. This stuff exploded and then disappeared. He kicked his legs over there and made trouble again.


    Second Sister-inw Jiang Su called them from the room, "Hurry up and stop ying. Hurry up ande eat dumplings. The dishes are almost cold."


    Zhi Xia and Pei Jing hugged their children and hurried over. Everyone returned to their seats, and the number of people was quiterge.


    In fact, Old Pei��s worries were not unreasonable. Now looking at arge group of lively people, once he left, the eldest daughter of the big room got married, leaving only Pei Jianguo alone, and the second room was even more miserable. After the two daughters got married, I was afraid that only the two of them would be left during the New Year, so Zhi Xia gave birth to twins as soon as she entered the door, and Old Pei was so happy.


    The old man always feels that more children are auspicious, and it is lively to have the atmosphere of home.


    Now, the only regret is that the second room does not have a son.


    Fortunately, the nephew is in front of the door and is not a desperate Han.


    The eldest daughter-inw was a bit difficult to get along with, but at that time the Wang Yue family died under the guns of the Japanese devils in order to save the boss, leaving only her as the only seedling. Therefore, as long as the boss still breathes, she cannot let her down.


    It is also for this reason that in recent years, the second room has not suffered less grievances, causing discord between the two houses.


    Now that the third child has children, the second daughter-inw is also good, so in the future if the eldest daughter-inw is really unwilling, let Chenye smash the basin for the second couple.


    The firecracker sounds continued until 8 or 9 o''clock in the evening before it stopped. The An family next door was also very lively, with a whole family of people on the side of the old gentleman and olddy.


    Thanks to Wang Caixiang''s sake, Zhou Nan went home very early today and cooked the main few dishes. The rest was Wang Caixiang who was busy.


    When she was done, the New Year''s Eve dinner was over, leaving only the soup and water left on the table. She tidied it up with tears streaming down her face before she dared to fill her belly a little.


    The old gentleman and olddy were old and had gone to rest early. An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan did not go back either, because they had to eat dumplings and grab the New Year early at night, and they usually went back to sleep at midnight after eating dumplings.


    The children below were free. Wen Qing picked up a lot of unexploded firecrackers and brought them back, and was pestering Liu Ling to light a incense stick for him to set off firecrackers. Liu Ling didn��t dare to follow his wishes casually.


    The power of these firecrackers was very great. He was still young. If he identally exploded his hands, it would be toote to regret.


    An ZhiXian saw that he was making trouble, walked over, hugged him and rode him on his neck, "What''s so fun about firecrackers, go, third uncle will take you out to y."


    "Okay... go out and y..." An Wenqing hugged An ZhiXian''s head andughed so hard that he couldn''t find his eyes. An ZhiXian also called An Zhiren, "I just made an appointment with JianGuo to y cards. Sister-inw, second brother, let''s go together."


    They were all familiar people who had intersections. Wang Caixiang ate dinner and finished her work. Looking at the empty yard in front of her, it was not the first time that such a strong sense of powerlessness surged up.


    She seemed that no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t integrate into their lives.


    Zhi Xia held the child without participating. Jiang Su helped hold Chen Ye. Pei Jing''s card skills were obviously superb. Pei JianGuo had already posted half of his face with paper strips, and Pei Shuangshuang and Pei Xiang did not escape.


    As soon as An ZhiXian came over, Pei Shuangshuang hurriedly shouted, "Brother ZhiXian,e over and help quickly. We are almost bullied to death by my little uncle."


    An ZhiXian was not polite either. He put Wen Qing down, took the cards from her hand, and said, "Get out of the way and see how I take revenge for you."


    Pei Jianguoughed at him for overestimating his ability and let him take over Pei Shuangshuang''s paper strips if he had the ability.


    Pei Shuangshuang hurriedly smiled and tore off the paper strips on her face, then raised her hand to post them on An ZhiXian��s face.


    An ZhiXian blocked it for a while, "It won''t stick anymore. Sister-inw, please help me tear a few more strips. I won''t take advantage of you guys."


    He didn''t like Pei Shuangshuang. She was too coquettish and loved to get intimate.


    Ever since the second brother was calcted, An ZhiXian now had more tricks up his sleeve, looking at everyone with ulterior motives.


    Pei Xiang also wanted to withdraw, handing her cards to An Zhiren.


    Liu Ling simply pasted them both with the two girls who lost to them, which looked ridiculous and funny.


    Wen Qing also wanted to paste, and An ZhiXian casually tore off a strip and pasted it on his face.


    Just like this, lively, 12 o''clock passed quickly.


    There was a crisp sound of firecrackers, and the card game also dispersed. The An family went back to the old gentleman to eat dumplings, and after eating, they went home to sleep. Tomorrow they had to get up early to worship the god of wealth, and it was a new day.


    The Pei family was the generation of Old Pei who entered the city, so there were not many close rtives. They didn''t have many elders to worship. They only went to the old gentleman''s side for a while and got four red envelopes.


    Because Pei Jing and Zhi Xia didn''te backst year, this year''s supplements were given to them.


    In contrast, the newlywed An Zhiren got nothing.


    He didn''t feel lost, because this marriage was not what he wanted, let alone admit it.


    At the same time, this is also the meaning of the old gentleman and olddy not recognizing this daughter-inw.


    Wang Caixiang''s face was pale in the yard. Even the olddy did not give her a chance to worship the god of wealth. Looking at the liveliness that belonged to others in the living room, she was even more lonely.


    The olddy called Zhi Xia alone into the room and sighed, "Tomorrow is the day when the married daughter returns to her natal family. Zhi Xia, what your parents did was wrong, but those things are all in the past. You can''t resent them for a lifetime. , Grandma doesn''t ask you to be able to deal with them wholeheartedly, just look at your mother who is still taking care of you during your confinement, the surface should always be maintained."


    Zhi Xia nodded, "I know what grandma is worried about, don''t worry, I will go tomorrow."


    As the olddy said, even if she can''t get along sincerely, at least the surface should be maintained.


    Today''s life is very good, and there is no need to make waves again.


    As for their inner thoughts, she doesn''t care anymore.


    "Well, grandma knows that you are an obedient good child." The olddy smiled.


    Zhi Xia''s expression moved slightly, but she didn''t say anything.


    Only she herself knows clearly that she is not a good child, nor will she forgive, it''s just that some things have long been irrelevant.


    Zhi Xia has always lived very clearly. She now has her own children and family. That is the happiness she should cherish.


    Returning to the Pei family, the Wang Yue and Jiang Su families had alreadye to Old Pei to worship the god of wealth. Although the grandchildren were adults, none of them were married. Old Pei also gave red envelopes to everyone for good luck.


    Seeing Zhi Xiaing back with the children, Jiang Su also gave red envelopes to the two children. It was wrapped in red paper used to write couplets. Wang Yue also gave two indifferently. Feeling thick, Zhi Xia was a little surprised.


    Returning to the room, Zhi Xia opened the red envelope and found that the two thick money bags given by Wang Yue were full of small change, four five cents a package of two dors.


    Sister-inw Jiang Su had a big reunion ticket in a package, and 20 dors in two packages, which was equivalent to more than half a person''s monthly sry.


    When Pei Jing came back, Zhi Xia hurriedly asked him, "Have you given out the red envelopes to them?"


    Although they were young, they had high seniority. So they also reported several red envelopes yesterday. Considering the age of their nephews and nieces, giving less would not be appropriate either. There were five dors in one package.


    "I gave it," Pei Jing came over to tease the children, "Ask her, what''s wrong?"


    Zhi Xia then told him about the red envelopes from the two families. The big room didn''t matter much. She was always willing to lose a little and unwilling to take advantage of anyone. But now there is only Pei Xiang in the second room. The one given is also big, which is a bit too much loss.


    Pei Jing understands Jiang Su''s approach. "Second Brother and Second Sister-inw have no son. Second Brother has always doted on JianGuo very much. He also mentioned letting JianGuo smash the pot when he gets old. Since then, the eldest sister-inw has felt that everything in the second room belongs to JianGuo. The appetite is too ugly, so the second sister-inw is not very happy. Now I guess I also want to point to Chenye in the future..."


    For such things, Zhi Xia looks very open. In a few more years, the family nning wille out, and there will be many only children.


    The red envelopes have been given, and it would be too deliberate to make up for them. She was thinking that she would make up for them in other ces when there was a chance in the future.

 Chapter 179: Total Relief

    <h4>Chapter 179</h4>


    In the afternoon, someone came to find Pei Jing. He told Zhi Xia before leaving with that person.


    When he came back, it was already after dinner. Hisplexion was slightly flushed, apparently having had some alcohol. There was also a faint smell of tobo on him.


    Without anyone urging him, he went to the bathroom on his own to wash up clean before daring to hug the child.


    The package he brought back was ced on the table. Zhi Xia asked, "What is this?" While speaking, she had already opened it, revealing a pack of cigarette inside along with two bottles of Moutai liquor.


    Zhi Xia looked up at him. She did not expect that he would bring back these things.


    Pei Jing exined, "A friend helped get them. Tomorrow is also the first time you return home after getting married. We can''t look too shabby. There is also meat. Mom left early so Dad being an old man can��t think of these things. I thought you had them over there so I didn''t buy any."


    What made Zhi Xia more curious was, "Where did you get the money to buy these?"


    This was not an interrogation, she just felt it was a bit strange. After all, she was holding all the money and he didn''t ask her for any.


    "I haven''t paid yet because I wasn''t sure if I could get them beforehand." Pei Jing pinched her nose, "So your husband is currently in debt. I have to wait for your approval here before I can take money to pay it back."


    "Hehe..." Zhi Xiaughed at his teasing. "I''ll let it go this time, but if something like this happens again, you have to tell me first."


    "Okay, okay, so can we sleep now, stingy girl?" Pei Jing kissed her forehead. Their son saw it and also pursed his lips toe over for a kiss.


    Zhi Xia quickly brought her forehead over to meet his little mouth, letting him kiss it. Only then did he grin gleefully withughter.


    Because Zhou Nan knew from the olddy that Zhi Xia woulde over today, she got up early in the morning and prepared all the dishes needed for today.


    Liu Ling also had to return to her maternal home. There was no one who could help prepare.


    The old master and olddy also changed into new clothes to go out. Wang Caixiang came running out, "Grandpa, Grandma, can I go back home with you?"


    She had been staying here these past few days, with even less chance to interact with An Zhiren.


    Although she used to live alone in her room on the floor mat back home, even so, An Zhiren was still unwilling to stay with her, choosing to sleep in his younger brother''s room every night instead.


    At least back then, she could still find opportunities to talk to him a few sentences, even if she was disgusted every time. She always harbored a kind of hope that he only temporarily hated her, and over time, he would eventually see her true feelings.


    The olddy now felt disgusted just seeing this woman. She had never disliked anyone so much in her life, not even Gao Meiyun back then.


    "Today is the day the married daughter returns home. Zhiren is also busy and has no time to apany you. If you don''t want to stay here, you can go back to your maiden home." After the olddy finished speaking, she left with the old master.


    Wang Caixiang stood in ce with tears streaming down her cheeks.


    She didn''t dare to go back after failing to get 200 yuan from the An family. Going back to her maiden home would only mean getting beaten.


    The sister-inw was given a day off today. The food and grains in the kitchen were all locked up in the cab. This was not originally a habit in the family, but it started after Wang Caixiang came.


    It was also destined that while everyone else gathered as a family, Wang Caixiang would inevitably starve for a day.


    The sister-inw had also never seen the olddy dislike someone so much before. But she was the nanny, having taken care of this family for so many years, and even received grace from the old master in the past. Naturally, she understood what she should do.


    The inexplicable sympathy would only make herself upset. Obviously, between her own distress and Wang Caixiang��s distress, the sister-inw chose to feel better off.


    Although the olddy hadn''t said anything, she had been very generous to her these past few days. This let the sister-inw know that she was doing the right thing.


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia came over around noon. When paying respect to An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan again, no one would probably feel more awkward than Pei Jing.


    The people who used to call them sister-inw and brother-inw had now be his parents-inw. The meaningful looks in the eyes of the two elder brothers at the side made him feel even more ufortable.


    Zhou Nan took over the gifts and put them aside, busy taking out red packets.


    Pei Jing apanied the old master and An Jingzhi to chat at the side. Byparison, they were more familiar with each other and would notck topics.


    Zhou Nan said she was going back to Zhou Vige to pay New Year visits tomorrow, and asked if there were any other arrangements for her tomorrow.


    Zhi Xia also understood her meaning and nodded in agreement.


    Zhou Nan smiled very satisfied. "Good, then apany your grandma to chat. Mom will go to the kitchen to prepare food. Your sister-inw said not to rush back this afternoon. She took Wenqing to the Liu��s home for lunch and will be backter."


    Considering it would be quite difficult for Zhou Nan to prepare meals for so many people alone, Zhi Xia got up, "Let me go help in the kitchen."


    Zhou Nan pressed her to sit down, "No need for you to help, mom can handle it. Just sit here and chat with your grandma."


    Looking at her hurried figure, Zhi Xia thought that without Gao Meiyun as a contrast, she was really a good mother.


    She also thought that if Zhou Nan had not been reced back then, she would have definitely gotten along with her better than Gao Meiyun.


    The olddy looked at Zhi Xia''s expression and sighed, "In fact, over the many years, our family has been well thanks to your mother. When she first entered the family, I always felt that she was not worthy of your father and didn��t treat her well. Later when things happened in the family, those who should leave left, those who should disperse did. Your father had a pampered life since he was young and was not diligent. Up until now, other than still being able to earn some wages, I can��t find any other merits in him. You and your four elder brothers grew up relying entirely on your mom alone toiling. Your grandma was no better than your dad, needing someone to wait upon me instead of helping out... "


    Even until now, it would absolutely not count as very fond of Zhou Nan.


    But her contributions to this family over so many years, the olddy would not deny. Therefore, even if just for the sake of this family, she hoped that Zhi Xia could get along well with her parents.


    People''s interests were always mutual. This would benefit all of them, so there was no need to always be stubborn.


    The olddy felt that the reason why Zhi Xia cared so much was because she was still young. When older and more open-minded, she would understand that those things she once cared about were not actually a big deal.


    Just like her. Her maternal family insisted on going abroad back then and she also felt as if she was abandoned. But looking back now, she still could not bear to leave herrge family behind to follow them.


    Now when thinking back, she only felt fortunate that they left quickly. Otherwise, her maternal family was not as aplished as her husband��s family and would have definitely sunk into that whirlpool, and who knows might have even dragged them down instead.


    The olddy was also worried about them. With this parting for many years without any news, she didn��t know whether they had safely gone abroad or if they were dead or alive now.


    She also didn''t know if there would still be a chance to meet again in this lifetime.


    Zhi Xia held the olddy''s hand with just a smile without replying.


    She understood the meaning behind grandma��s words, but she was clearer that she truly no longer cared in her heart, for better or worse.


    The unwillingness once harbored deep inside had long faded away with the apaniment of a happy and peaceful life.


    At this point, she was thoroughly free from resentment towards An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan.


    For the rest of her life, as long as they did not dislike her, she was also willing to maintain the current harmony. But the feelings they wanted from her, she could no longer give.

 Chapter 180: New Year Greetings in Zhou Village

    <h4>Chapter 180</h4>


    Zhou Granny had prepared a sumptuous lunch, clearly having put her heart into it.


    After lunch, Liu Ling soon came back with Wen Qing.


    It just so happened thatst time, Liu Ling had said she wanted to learn Zhou Granny''s knitting techniques, so Zhou Granny taught her. With the children taken care of, the two women chatted andughed in the room until the afternoon.


    Because Zhou Vige was far away, they had set off early in the morning. The group going included Zhou Nan bringing her two sons, Pei Jing, and Zhou Granny.


    The two children hadn''t gone because of the long journey and the windy weather today - they were afraid the children would catch a cold from the wind on the road.


    An Jingzhi hadn''t gone either. He wasn''t a new son-inw, and Old Master was also entertaining guests today, so someone had to stay behind and keep himpany. They couldn''t all go.


    By the time they arrived at Zhou Vige, it was already mid-morning.


    Life in the countryside was hard. The red envelope Zhou Granny gave wasn''t big either. It was just symbolic.


    Unexpectedly, Zhou Granny and Pei Jing also received red envelopes to make up forst year''s.


    There was 5 yuan in each envelope, so the two of them got 10 yuan total. That was probably equal to the family''s ie for a couple of months.


    Zhou Granny felt embarrassed to ept it. Noticing that the basket for their gifts still hadn''t been opened, she took the chance while no one was looking to secretly add two cans of milk powder and a big bag of White Rabbit candy.


    The two aunties were busy in the kitchen. Zhou Nan made a symbolic offer to help, but was shooed back out. Zhou Granny also told her to sit and rest in the room.


    For Zhou Nan, this was probably the most rxing time of the year.


    At home, she was busy year-round, taking care of one person after another, never having any free time. Only when she returned to her mother''s home could she rx for a bit.


    Men are forever young. Pei Jing and Zhou Nan''s two brothers had been dragged out by two cousins to go y - who knows what they were up to.


    The two uncles were in the yard, one killing chickens and one killing fish. The chickens were raised at home, and the fish were distributed by the production team at New Year''s and had been kept in arge water tank especially to treat them today.


    Zhou Granny asked Zhou Nan a few questions about her two children and was happy to hear they were both doing well.


    When ites to giving birth, from her to her daughter to her granddaughter now, they had all given birth to twins. Not only that, but they had all raised them too. Anyone who heard about it would look at them with envious eyes.


    However, there was one regret - giving birth followed the rule of only passing down the female line. Her two sons didn''t have the potential to have twins. Her eldest daughter''s family was also distant, with the young couple seldom together. They only had one child so far.


    Speaking of which, Zhou Granny suddenly remembered, "Nan Nan, isn''t Zhiren 25 this year? Have you found a match for him? You parents don''t care at all. At his age in our countryside, who knows, he may already have a litter of kids!"


    An Zhiren and Wang Caixiang had only registered their marriage. None of the family approved of her, so they hadn''t notified rtives and friends. As a result, the Zhou family still didn''t know.


    Whenever this was brought up, Zhou Nan got a headache. She and his dad had nned for this year that no matter whether he was willing or not, either he would find a partner himself or they would arrange one for him. In any case, staying single was not an option.


    Who could have expected that man proposes, God disposes? They had been outsmarted.


    Since Zhou Granny already knew, and there were no outsiders in the room, Zhou Nan vented all her resentment.


    When Zhou Granny heard, her heart also skipped a beat. "That won''t do. A family may be poor and a woman may be ugly, but that''s fine. The key issue is character. A rotten apple spoils the barrel. If there''s someone with crooked thoughts in the family, it will bring discord."


    Zhou Nan was still thinking about how to get them divorced. But her dad had told her not to interfere. Hearing Zhou Granny''s words, she strongly agreed.


    "I was even thinking about finding a capable daughter-inw for you, to help support you." Zhou Granny''s thoughts turned to An Zhi xian. He was over 20 too.


    But thinking again, the second son''s incident had just happened a couple months ago. They probably weren''t ready to prepare for the third son yet. Better put that aside for now.


    Zhou Nan gave a wry smile. "Mom, you really know how to think ahead. Even if this hadn''t happened with my second brother, he still wouldn''t look for a wife here in the countryside. He likes women with culture. He says uncultured women don''t even talk the samenguage."


    She didn''t understand how her sons thought either. She herself was uneducated, yet she and her husband had lived well all these years.


    "What good is culture? Cultured women are busy with work all day. You never even see their shadow. The whole family depends on you alone - bringing up the sons, then bringing up the grandsons. Tell me, when will you ever get a break?!" It was true that blood is thicker than water.


    Zhou Granny didn''t care what kind of wife An Jia married. She was worried about her own daughter.


    Aside from the eldest, there were still the second, third and fourth sons. In the future, if they all married cultured women and left Zhou Nan alone to serve them, even the donkeys in their production team wouldn''t be worked as hard as her.


    Zhou Nan also fell silent. It wasn''t that she wasn''t tired, but she had no choice.


    Zhou Granny''s worries were something she had asionally thought about too. Things were still fine now with her few sons, but what if in the future they all married and had children? She wouldn''t be able to work herself dead serving them alone either.


    She and her husband had discussed this before. They nned that when it was time to split up the family, they would. If the eldest son''s family wanted to live with them, they could. After all, with the eldest son away, they as the elders had to be supportive.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi waved to her from the doorway and she went out.


    With her gone, Zhou Granny and her daughter could chat more freely.


    As soon as she stepped out, Zhou Zhi Zhi pulled her into her own room where Zhou Yuanyuan was also present.


    "You''re also listening in so happily on Granny and Auntie''s conversation." She had heard such gossip between women since she was little anyway.


    "Why didn''t you call me out earlier then? I was embarrassed to abruptly leave." Zhou Granny sat on her bed and asked, "That''s right, Zhi Zhi sister, I heard you''re engaged?"


    Zhou Zhi Zhi''s face turned red. Zhou Yuanyuanughed and answered for her, "You bet. The wedding date is already set for before this year''s wheat harvest. I''ll soon be the only girl left in the family!"


    "You little rascal, daring to make fun of me." Zhou Zhi Zhi angrily pped her once, "Don''t worry about being lonely by yourself. I bet after my business is done, you''ll be next."


    Young girls always felt a bit shy talking about this, but also held some faint anticipation and novelty.


    So the two kept asking Zhou Granny what married life was like.


    Zhou Granny smiled. "If you want to know, it''s not hard. Just look at your two aunties."


    "Oh!" Zhou Yuanyuan sighed. "So that means getting married is just about going to another''s family to wash clothes, cook, and do chores? I can already do that in my own family!"


    Zhou Granny smiled helplessly as she watched them argue, without adding her own opinion.


    She felt that marriage shouldn''t be capital for raising one''s standard of living, but rather a joining of hands to strive together.


    Everyone was not well off, just ordinary people in this vast world. Relying on one side''s efforts alone to support a family was even more impossible.


    Even if others envied Zhou Nan for marrying into the city and not having to work whilecking nothing to eat or drink, her life was not as leisurely as imagined. Raising the children and heavy household duties had been borne by her alone all these years.


    As for An Jingzhi, his contribution wasmuting to work on time every day to earn a sry. He didn''t have it easy either.


    There are thousands of difficulties in the world, each with their own troubles. Whether good or bad depends on whether you can understand and tolerate each other.

 Chapter 181: Excuse

    <h4>Chapter 181</h4>


    When she left the Zhou Family, it was already past lunchtime.


    As Pei Jing rode his bicycle through the vige, he seemed to catch a glimpse of a fading figure in the distance. There was something familiar about it, yet it disappeared so quickly that he wondered if his eyes were ying tricks.


    When Pei Jing arrived home, An Fourth rushed to see her two darling babies, who she had not seen for a full day. Pei Jing had gone to deliver money to his friends for buying cigarettes and liquor.


    After ying with the children for a while, An Fourth handed them over to their grandfather and went out on her bike.


    An Fourth had waited outside the police station for a while before Liu Jun finally emerged.


    "Brother Liu Jun..." An Fourth called out. Liu Jun''s gaze turned towards her, instantly lighting up.


    His colleague jokingly elbowed him, "Is that your girlfriend?"F???dd ??ew upd??t??s on n(o)v/e/l??in(.


    "Don''t talk nonsense, she''s my sister," Liu Jun exined hurriedly as he jogged over to An Fourth. "An Fourth, I heard you were back but haven''t had the chance to see you. How long are you staying home for?"


    "Just a few days. I have to go back tomorrow," An Fourth replied. She asked him, "Do you have time, Brother Liu? Let me treat you to a meal."


    "No, no, no, I should be the one treating you," Liu Junughed as he walked his bike alongside An Fourth''s. "I have you to thank for asking me to keep an eye on the Gao Family siblings. If not for that, I''d probably still be wandering the streets aimlessly instead of being dispatched to the countryside now that I''m working at the police station."


    It was because of capturing the human traffickers back then, along with his previous achievements, that he was noticed by the police station and given the opportunity to wear this uniform.


    "That was all thanks to Brother Liu''s capabilities. I merely asked you for help, I didn''t expect you to aplish such a feat," An Fourth thoughtfully probed, "Speaking of which, how did the Gao Family siblings get involved with the human traffickers? Do you know, Brother Liu?"


    Liu Jun carefully recalled the situation back then. It wasn''t hard to realize that the Gao siblings had clearly known the identities of the human traffickers beforehand. They had used themselves as bait in hopes of capturing the traffickers to gain merit as well, but Liu Jun had beaten them to it. Instead, they had unwillingly assisted him.


    As for the leader''s rescued daughter, she was now married to one of Liu Jun''s sworn brothers.


    If not for the several fortunate coincidences, he would not have had the patience to keep the Gao siblings under surveince.


    But afterwards, they must have noticed somehow, which was why they never made another move.


    Liu Jun found it very bizarre how they seemed to possess some kind of foresight regarding certain matters.


    Even until recently, he had his brothers inquire about the Gao siblings'' current circumstances. Upon finding out they were still peacefully farming in the countryside, he finally stopped paying them any more heed.


    The two chatted all the way to the state-run restaurant. But when it came time to pay, Liu Jun managed to foot the bill before An Fourth could even react.


    Aside from being a grown man, considering all the benefits he had gained from these events, Liu Jun believed he really should be the one treating An Fourth as a token of gratitude. Otherwise, if Pei Jing were to find out about him taking such egregious advantageter on, he surely would not let Liu Jun off easy.


    The night was pitch ck without a single moonbeam or starlight.


    A cold gust of wind blew by, sending down a few raindrops.


    An Fourth bid Liu Jun farewell as the skies darkened. "Brother Liu, it looks like rain ising. I''ll get going first. You should head back soon too."


    "Alright, you go ahead. I''ll have a smoke first," said Liu Jun.


    As An Fourth cycled away, unbeknownst to her, Liu Jun tailed her from a distance. Only when he saw someoneing out with an umbre to receive her near her home did he finally leave.


    It was unsafe for a girl to travel alone at night. With the foul weather andck of pedestrians outside, he could not afford to make such a mistake that allowed danger to befall someone right in front of him.


    No sooner had Pei Jing and An Fourth entered the house than beansized raindrops came pelting down, smacking her in the face before trickling down into her clothes, leaving her shivering from the chill.


    Pei JianGuo had just finished washing up and came jogging back from the yard.


    Pei Jing opened up an umbre and brought An Fourth back to their room. Only then did he ask her, "Dad said you didn''t eat dinner at home. Where did you go?"


    "I went for a walk around town and bumped into a friend of my fourth brother Liu Jun. We grabbed a bite together. When my fourth brother had just left, he asked his friend Liu Jun to look after me. You know him right? He works at the police station now." As An Fourth exined, her gaze drifted towards the bed. Not seeing her children there, she asked, "Where are the kids?"


    "We''re leaving tomorrow. Grandpa and Grandma couldn''t bear to part with them, so they went over for the night," said Pei Jing, using a towel to wipe the raindrops off her face.


    After drying her, his cool lips touched down on the tip of her nose.


    "Cold?" he asked. "Want to go take a hot shower in your space?" Pei Jing knew she had hot running water in her dimension, so he would often tell her to shower there and avoid the chill outdoors.


    An Fourth did feel an urge to wash up. She circled her arms around his neck alluringly. "Will you join me?"


    Those pure eyes seemed to possess hooks that faintly pulled at his heartstrings, his own eyes growing increasingly obscure.


    Ardent kisses rained over her body, already affirming through action that he would dly fulfill her request.


    The scene instantly shifted. Layers of heavy clothingy discarded all over the floor.


    The pitter patter of shower water echoed ceaselessly within the washroom.


    Innocent, unblemished skin pressed tightly against olive tan as ck and white tangled endlessly, both pairs releasing heavy breaths that could inebriate the soul.


    From the bathroom to pristine white bedsheets, everything was left in disarray.


    The night remained long...


    Something tickled lightly at her face. An Fourth opened her eyes to find her little one perched right before her, smearing drool all over.


    Her limbs were sore, especially her legs which she barely wanted to move.


    Pei Jing came in cradling their child, gently asking, "Awake? Feeling alright?"


    It was rare not to have the two kids disturbing themst night. He had been a little too indulgent. Now Pei Jing felt somewhat guilty.


    An Fourth still felt exhausted and nasal as she mumbled, "What time is it?"


    "Just past eight. Sleep more if you''re tired. We''re not leaving until the afternoon so there''s time," Pei Jing reassured.


    "It''s past eight already. Why didn''t you wake me for breakfast? Dad didn''t ask why I wasn''t eating did he?" How awkward would that be, An Fourth cringed internally. No matter how sweetly he coaxedter on, such wanton behavior could not happen again, especially under her elders'' roof.


    Back in the army, it had only been the two of them without anyone to supervise her sleeping habits.


    Only now did An Fourth understand the meaning of making one''s own bed and lying in it. Turns out he was notcking stamina at all, but rather a ravenous wolf when presented a feast, insatiable once satisfied.


    Not daring to show any temper since he had created this situation himself, Pei Jing could only patiently pacify her, "I told Dad you were a bit dizzy. Don''t worry, no one will overthink things."


    Having a dizzy spell as an excuse, An Fourth simply remained in bed without getting up. She freshened up in her space dimension, plucking a snow crystal fruit to munch on with crisp crunches.


    Its rejuvenating effect was instantaneous. Her previously worn out body became pumped full of energy around ten minutes after eating the snow crystal fruit.


    She also let Pei Jing eat one. Though Tiger Girl imed it was a female exclusive due to the fruit''s rarity and dearth of agricultural knowledge in the beast world, after a period of cultivation, An Fourth''s space now boasted a bountiful harvest that she would often share generously with Tiger Girl.


    And the pure-hearted girl would transport all kinds of exotic fruit trees and treasures from the beast world ne into An Fourth''s space in return, currently upying several hilltops within.


    Of course, An Fourth had also given her ample benefits.

 Chapter 182: Back to Him Bureau

    <h4>Chapter 182</h4>


    After all, Pei Jing was going to leave in the afternoon, so he took the two children to Old Pei''s side, so that the children''s grandfather could cherish them again.


    Knowing that summer originally wanted to sleep for a while longer, I didn''t expect Wang Caixiang toe suddenly.


    Fortunately, she was dressed, so she could only get out of bed and put on a cotton jacket to ask her, "What did youe for?"


    Knowing summer, she didn''t have a good impression of Wang Caixiang. The pitiful life would arouse other people''s sympathy, but this could not be a reason for her to calcte others.


    "Knowing summer, I...I want to ask you for something." Wang Caixiang had tears that were about to fall. She stood in front of her with clumsy hands and feet. "Can you help me? This family Only you can help me!"


    However, Knowing Summer was very straightforward, "You''re wrong. Although I don''t know why you would think that I can help you, I tell you very clearly that I can''t help you, no one can help you, only You can help yourself."


    "That''s not true, you can help me." Wang Caixiang ced her only hope on Knowing Summer, "Knowing Summer, I know your life experience. You used to suffer a lot in the countryside. You should be able to understand me. I know what I did was shameful to others, but I really had no way at that time. You second brother was my only hope. If I didn''t catch it, my family would sell me to an old man, and I would have no way out for the rest of my life, do you know?"


    Wang Caixiang couldn''t hold back her tears anymore. She knew that Knowing Summer''s life experience was no secret. After all, it had already been reported in the newspapers back then. As the principal of the school, his family affairs were naturally talked about in the school.


    "Now you''ve caught your so-called hope, are you happy? If you feel happy, you shouldn''t havee to find me today, right? Also, Wang Caixiang, your so-called seizing hope is to drag my second brother into hell in exchange, do you understand?" Knowing Summer smiled and felt that her thoughts were ridiculous, "Also, I''m not the same as you. I used to live in the countryside, but I never thought about pulling others down just because I was in the mud."


    "But we are already married." Wang Caixiang was unwilling, "Don''t you want your second brother to be happy? If you are unwilling to reconcile us, I will be unhappy, and he will be very painful too."


    "So, you two people who are immersed in pain are unwilling to free yourselves. What can an outsider like me do to help?" Knowing summer said: "You feel painful, you can choose to divorce. Believe me, with my second brother''s attitude, he should not keep you."


    Wang Caixiang looked at her in disbelief, "You...I thought you would understand me, but I didn''t expect you to be such an unsympathetic person."


    Knowing summer sarcastically said, "I don''t have the same sympathy as my second brother, so I''m fine now, but my second brother has been dragged down by you because of his own sympathy. Wang Caixiang, 500 yuan is ckmail. Money is one thing, but forcing yourself on my second brother is another. This is the first time I have seen someone who can force a marriage by buying it..."


    500 yuan in 1972 was not a small amount. I guess it not only emptied An Zhiren, but also An Jingzhi''s supplement.


    When Old Pei paid 200 yuan for Pei''s betrothal gift when Knowing Summer got married, it was already considered a well-off family. Ordinary families only pay tens of yuan for weddings.


    At first, when the Gao family couple sold Knowing Summer, she was only worth 20 yuan in the countryside.


    What''s more, this is not even a normal marriage at all. An Zhiren was calcted by the Wang family and suffered double losses of money and marriage.


    Wang Caixiang was humiliated by Knowing Summer, and she no longer had the face to beg, she could only cry and run away.


    Pei Jing walked in, "What did shee for?"


    Knowing summer told him what happened, and said, "I have to go find my grandmother to tell her about this. When rabbits are anxious, they will bite. Wang Caixiang was not a person with proper thoughts in the first ce. When people like this are left in the family, they may cause trouble if forced."


    "Let me go with you. We''re leaving soon anyway, so say hello to Grandpa and Grandma along the way." Pei Jing said.


    When the two arrived at the An family, they saw the olddy scolding Wang Caixiang.


    After waiting for a while, Knowing Summer clearly saw the unwillingness and grievance in Wang Caixiang''s eyes.


    Seeing that Pei Jing and Knowing Summer had arrived, the olddy let her go to the side and affectionately called them into the room.


    Since family affairs in the An family were not convenient for Pei Jing to participate in, he went to the study to find the old gentleman.


    Only then did Knowing Summer tell the olddy about Wang Caixiang''s affairs, and learned from the olddy that her second brother was already working on dealing with the Wang family. They were not unprepared for Wang Caixiang either. Naturally, they would tidy up Wang Caixiang after the matter with the Wang family was over.


    Knowing that the olddy had everything under control, Knowing Summer felt at ease. She said some caring words to her before leaving with the olddy''s love.


    The rain had stopped, but the weather was still cold.


    Looking at the full bed, Knowing Summer couldn''t help but feel worried about the fewrge packages. There were some prepared by Old Pei, some prepared by Jiang Su, and some given by the olddy.


    Fortunately there was space. Knowing Summer put a few small packages into the space and left tworge ones to cover people''s eyes when going out.


    After calcting the time to go out, I didn''t expect An ZhiXian toe. Pei JianGuo also specially stayed at home to see them off to the train.


    "My second brother has been busier these days. I took time off specially to see you off." An ZhiXian seemed to like Wanqing very much. As soon as he entered the house, he hugged her in his arms.


    The little darling should also be familiar with this uncle. She didn''t resist at all, and looked quite excited.


    It wasn''t time for school yet. An Zhiren must be so busy because of the Wang family''s affairs. Knowing Summer guessed.


    When carrying the bags, Pei JianGuo murmured, "Young uncle, you don''t seem to have much stuff!" He remembered that the elders of the two families had given them a lot of things in big and small packages!


    Pei Jing quickly exined: "Oh, I put all those odds and ends together in one bag, otherwise after getting off the train I would have to carry the child too, which would not be easy to hold."


    Fortunately, none of them doubted it.


    When they went out, the elderly of both families saw them off at the door, watching them go farther and farther away.


    Not until they saw them off on the train did An ZhiXian and Pei JianGuo return.


    And as soon as Knowing Summer left, An Zhiren also made arrangements and started to act here.


    He originally wanted to use a blunt knife to cut meat slowly, to let the Wang family have a good taste of the pain of loss. But after discussing with Grandpa and Grandma, hepletely changed his mind.


    Revenge slowly is satisfying, but Grandpa worries that he will eventually get himself into trouble.


    Moreover, he was not young anymore. After finishing Wang Caixiang''s affairs, he should also marry and have children, so as not to worry the elderly.


    The former An Zhiren felt that he could drag it on for a few more years. After all, the third child did not need to get married for the time being. But after Wang Caixiang''s affair, he suddenly changed his mind.


    Being alone does have freedom, but it cannotpare to a peaceful life.


    If he had listened to his family early and got married, he could havepletely avoided Wang Caixiang''s disaster.


    After all, unmarried men like him, with good family background and a good job, are like a piece of meaty bone in the eyes of those with ulterior motives, making them drool.


    The second brother of the Wang family did have his legs plotted against with just 20 yuan. He was caught in the act by the woman''s family when hooking up with the little widow. His legs were stripped naked and broken, and Wang''s second brother was threatened to steal 500 yuan from home, otherwise he would be paraded through the streets until his shoes fell apart. This was the trap An Zhiren set for him.

 Chapter 183: The House is Ruined

    <h4>Chapter 183</h4>


    This incident happened years ago, which was why [Wang''s Mother] was anxious to have [Wang Caixiang] take some money from the An family to cover it up. She was afraid that her other sons would find out about this matter. It would definitely cause trouble if that happened.


    What happened to the second son being caught by someone was very simr to [An Zhiren]''s situation of being caught at home that day. This made them have no choice but to suspect that it was [An Zhiren]''s revenge.


    Of course, since [An Zhiren] dared to do this, he naturally had made preparations and was not afraid that they would know it was him.


    In fact, he was even worried that they would not know. Otherwise, this revenge would be meaningless.


    He still had a series of ns waiting for them afterwards. The reason why he had endured and not made any moves these past few days was also out of consideration that his younger sister hade back to spend a rare New Year holiday. He did not want the family to look too unsightly during these days.


    On the day when [Pei Jing] and Zhi Xia left, [An Zhiren] had someone notify [Wang Second Brother] about the matter of his money being used up. [Wang]''s family became very lively that day. Although [An Zhiren] did not witness it with his own eyes, he still heard a lot from others.


    It was said that after [Wang Second Brother] broke his leg, his other brothers dragged him out and beat him violently again. Even now, he was still expelled from home and had no ce to stay.


    After that, the youngest son of the Wang family became addicted to gambling. The eldest son stole goods from the factory where he worked by being instigated by someone else. [Wang''s Father] became ill from anger that day.


    By coincidence, the doctor who treated [Wang''s Father] was precisely [An ZhiXian].


    Ever since his younger sister had given him that medical book, [An ZhiXian] had been particrly interested in acupuncture and medicine preparation. Having someone deliver it to his door to practice on was precisely what he had been wishing for.


    Of course, [An ZhiXian] was not stupid enough to get himself involved due to taking revenge for his Second Brother. That would make people suspicious. So it was on the fourth day after his acupuncture treatment that [Wang''s Father] was paralyzed in bed andpletely became a waste person.


    Because of this, the two brothers even had a fight.


    [An Zhiren] personally handled the Wang family��s retaliation. It was precisely because the methods used were not honorable, so he did not want his family members to get involved.


    Just like the Old Master was worried that he would sink into hatred during his revenge process, [An Zhiren] also felt that doing bad things could be addictive.


    Especially with [An ZhiXian��s] identity as a doctor, his medical skills should be used to treat illnesses and save people, and should not be tainted because his older brother did something foolish.


    However, it was also because of this fight that the rtionship between the two brothers became closer afterwards.


    [An Zhiren] disagreed with [An ZhiXian��s] approach for his younger brother��s own good. It was fine if just he himself became tainted from dealing with the Wang family alone, the other person should not get involved.


    [An ZhiXian] also promised that he would not intervene anymore in subsequent matters.


    In fact, if it were not for [Wang''s Father] happening to fall into his hands, he would not have intended to do anything either.


    Although he was not allowed to participate in Second Brother��s n, he knew the whole process. He also understood that dealing with the Wang family was not difficult at all.


    In just one month, members of the Wang family were either disabled or diminished. The only ones not affected were several of [Wang Caixiang]��s nephews and nieces.


    They were still children. On the day [An Zhiren] was harmed, they were not there either.


    Of course, with the Wang family adults barely able to fend for themselves, the days ahead for these children would probably not be easy either.


    [An Zhiren] smiled bitterly. Unfortunately, he no longer had any spare sympathy to give them now.


    For the rest of his life, he probably would never radiate that kind of excessive sympathy from his heart again. Just one [Wang Caixiang] had thoroughly destroyed the kindness in his heart.


    At the same time, arrangements had been made at [Old Madam��s] side. [Wang Caixiang] had stolen valuables from the family many times to subsidize her maternal home. The An family could no longer tolerate this and could only file for divorce.


    No one would doubt this reason. After all, she did often take things from the family back to the Wang family. Although it was [Old Madam] deliberately allowing it to happen every time.


    However, [An Zhiren] still could not get a divorce because [Wang Caixiang] absolutely refused and even went to jump into the river and kill herself, causing a huge fuss.


    The neighborhoodmittee also came to persuade them many times, specifically instructing them that they must not cause any loss of life. So the matter could only be left unsettled.


    Although she was branded as a thief, [Wang Caixiang] was now the daughter-inw of the An family. The things she stole were the family��s own property, so it could only be regarded as the An family��s domestic affair.


    [An Zhiren] had originally thought he would be more generous and divorce to let go of one another. But since she absolutely refused, he could not be med for going too far.


    With [An JingZhi] present, plus [An Zhiren]��s seniority and excellent conduct at school, he soon used his own house topletely move out of the An family residence....


    After staying in Jincheng for just a few days, when she returned to the army, Zhi Xia felt a significant change in the weather. It was so cold that she couldn��t even stick her head out.


    Afraid that her two children would catch a cold, she had wrapped them into balls on the train.


    When they returned home, [Pei Jing] opened the door. The familiar feeling rushed up and they finally returned to their own home.


    [Pei Jing] cleaned up the baby stroller and let Zhi Xia put the sleeping children in it together. ��You go open up the bed. I��ll go to the kitchen to get some water.��


    Afraid of freezing fromck of heating, they had emptied therge water tank before leaving.


    Zhi Xia responded and the couple began tidying up the house separately.


    Having lived here for quite some time, many items had been added to the house. The cabs were even stuffed full with the children��s belongings. When they left, they had folded the quilts neatly and stacked them on the bed, using only one quilt to wrap them up tightly.


    Zhi Xia unfolded the quilt, revealing the neatly folded quilts inside. She reached out to spread it open.


    "Ah..."


    A sharp shriek came from the room and [Pei Jing] hurriedly quickened his pace to run inside. "What''s wrong?"


    By now, Zhi Xia had already let out a sigh of relief. Still frightened, she pointed at the quilt, "There are mice."


    When she pulled open the quilt just now, a big mouse rushed out from inside, even touching her hand.


    Her scalp tingled at that time, and she was scared to death.


    Only then did [Pei Jing] notice that the quilt on the bed had been pulled open, revealing a nest of newborn baby mice inside without any fur. They were clearly just born.


    The quilt had been gnawed ragged with cotton poking out everywhere, giving off a rancid smell. There were also scattered mouse droppings.


    [Pei Jing] half embraced Zhi Xia in his arms tofort her, "Don''t be afraid, don''t be afraid. It''s just a few baby mice. You go out first to check on the kids. I''ll tidy up inside the room. I''m afraid this quilt can''t be used anymore."


    "Then just throw it away. It''s all mouse piss and shit. Don''t know if the cab has been damaged either." Zhi Xia did not stand on ceremony with him and hurried out to wash her hands.


    It really was a huge mouse. Its tail was so long and straight without any fur. Just thinking about it still gave her the creeps.


    Anyway, there were no outsiders at home, so Zhi Xia simply moved both children into the space.


    In her previous life, there had been many cases of mice eating children. Although she had never personally witnessed it, she had heard much about it in that information-rich era. So safety was the priority now.


    She had seen mice before, but this kind of disgusting scene was definitely the first time she had experienced it since being reborn.


    [Pei Jing] took out several newborn mice, and the bolder child came over wanting to y with them.


    The unwanted quilt was collected by Zhi Xia into the space. It only needed star coins to be disposed of as garbage. She was notcking star coins now and was no longer as frugal as when she first started out.


    It was a pity that the big mouse was not caught. Zhi Xia was still a little afraid that it woulde back, so she ced mousetraps under the bed and on top of the cabs.


    These were high-tech mousetraps. There were sounds inside to attract mice and it guaranteed 100% trapping sess rate.


    Fortunately, although there were bite marks on the wooden boards of the cabs, the boards had not been chewed through yet. The items inside were also undamaged without any traces of destruction.

 Chapter 184: Early Production

    <h4>Chapter 184</h4>


    Pei Jing was also not idle, bringing water from outside to wipe down the tables, chairs, cabs until they were all clean. He even deliberately used detergent, and did not even spare the doors and windows, wiping them clean too.


    It took a long time before he cleaned the entire house once.


    Everything in the kitchen needed to be reced. Zhi Xia reced them all with new ones. Pei Jing took coal briquettes next door to borrow fire, but did not cook. All the meals were taken from the space.


    Knowing they hade back, Zhao Xin came over once, but by then they had already cleaned up.


    It had just rained recently, and the ground outside was still a bit frosty. Pei Meng, with her big belly, basically did not go out anymore.


    Zhi Xia went to see her the next day and saw that she was in good condition before she felt relieved.


    The weather was still cold in January, and a few dayster, there was another heavy snowfall. Fortunately, it melted before February, and when the warm sun came out, the ground also became dry.


    Zhi Xia had just coaxed the two children to sleep inside when Shen Hongxing hurriedly came over, "Zhi Xia, Pei Meng is going to give birth! Your man and Zhao Xin just rushed to take her to the hospital and let mee tell you..."


    "Isn''t there still a few more days? Howe she''s inbor now?" Zhi Xia hurriedly asked.


    "I heard that she squatted in the toilet for too long, and when she got up, her water broke." Shen Hongxing also heard it from others. She happened to be not far from Pei Meng''s door chatting with a few sisters at that time. She was a gossipy person to begin with, even after returning to her original form.


    "I see, thanks Hongxing sister for making this trip." Zhi Xia said hastily.


    The military vehicle drove by the door, followed by a group of people talking about something, all about Pei Meng going intobor.


    During Pei Meng''s pregnancy, Zhi Xia had fed her many good things, sometimes added in soup and meals, and sometimes made into fruit juice.


    Although there were still a few days before the expected date of delivery, membrane rupture was still a normal phenomenon, there shouldn''t be anything wrong.


    Although this was what she thought in her heart, the waiting time was long. Zhi Xia still could not help worrying.


    It was not until night that Pei Jing came back.


    Zhi Xia had not fallen asleep either. Seeing hime back, she hurriedly asked, "How is it?"


    "Gave birth, it''s a girl, quite chubby, Zhao Xin is so happy." When Pei Jing spoke, there was a smile on his face, "Oh yes, do you have any ready-made soup over there that I can bring Pei Meng? It��s the middle of the night and there is nothing much to eat in town. She is still hungry now."


    "There is. Hongxing sister told me Pei Meng was going to give birth, so I cooked chicken soup in the space and kept it ready, just waiting for you guys toe back." Zhi Xia said while hurriedly preparing it, "You stay home and rest, I will deliver the soup and take the opportunity to see the baby."


    Pei Jing did not argue with her and nodded, then went to clean himself up.


    As a primipara, Pei Meng gave birth quite quickly, and the things Zhi Xia fed her during her pregnancy were also very helpful.


    Zhi Xia added a little snow crystal fruit juice to the chicken soup. Fortunately, this fruit was pure white and tasteless, just very juicy. When added to the soup, it did not change the taste.


    Zhao Xin probably did not eat it either. She left some meat and soup for Pei Jing, and also left him dinner. She put the rest in a thermos and took a bowl of rice, then went to Zhao Xin��s ce.


    Zhao Xin was boiling water in the kitchen. Pei Meng only washed up briefly after giving birth at the hospital in town, and wanted to take a good bath when she got home.


    Seeing Zhi Xiae over, Zhao Xin quickly greeted her. His tired face was full of joy.


    "I was worried that Mengmeng woulde home hungry, so I''ve been heating chicken soup for her on the stove. Is she asleep now?" Zhi Xia asked.


    "Not yet. I was just wondering what I could make for her to eat. Thank you so much, auntie." Zhao Xin said hastily.


    "Then I''ll take it inside and see the baby too." Zhi Xia said, "I stewed a whole chicken, she can''t finish it alone either, soe over and eat some too."


    "Oh." Zhao Xin felt that although Pei Meng''s aunt looked very young, she was actually a very capable and good elder.


    When he was away, it was thanks to her taking care of Pei Meng that allowed him to be at ease outside.


    Although Pei Jing was her uncle, men were still not as attentive as women. Pei Meng would prefer to talk to Zhi Xia if she had any issues.


    Before she even entered the room, she heard Pei Meng''s weak voice calling her, "Is that auntie?"


    "It''s me." Zhi Xia walked in and saw her lying on the bed. Herplexion was a little pale and she looked very weak.


    Zhi Xia put the chicken soup and rice on the bedside table and asked her, "How are you feeling? Still ufortable?"


    "Other things are fine, I''m just very weak. Below is still a bit painful." Pei Meng said.


    It could be heard from her voice that she was weak. Zhi Xia was not surprised and helped her sit up, "Have something to eat first, you will feel much better after a nap."


    Zhao Xin brought in a bowl. Zhi Xia took it to scoop her soup and added a chicken leg.


    Pei Meng was indeed starving and finished it cleanly, then had another half bowl of rice.


    Zhao Xin only drank some soup, and gnawed on the chicken head and chicken neck, keeping the good meat for Pei Meng.


    As the weather was still cold now, things would not spoil easily for two to three days either.


    Still, Zhi Xia could not stand watching it and took the bowl back to fill more rice for him. Only then did he meekly walk out to eat, not wanting to embarrass her.


    Pei Meng smiled and said, "Auntie, you must have used up all the rice at your home for this meal, right?"


    Very little rice was eaten here, usually just steamed buns made from three parts wheat flour and one part rice. It was pretty good to be able to eat white steamed buns.


    Furthermore, such delicate long grain rice was very rare even in Jincheng.


    "Don''t worry, with our status, having some finer grains asionally is also possible. You have just given birth and shouldn''t worry about these things. I have even specially set aside some for you during your confinement month." Zhi Xia said as she went to see the child inside. Sure enough, she was plump like the twins when they were born, her skin fair and wless without any wrinkles, very good looking, "Have you decided on a name?"


    "Zhao Xin thought of a few, but hasn''t finalized it yet."


    Zhi Xia also softly asked her, "So for your confinement this month, does your mother-inw n toe over?"


    Pei Meng also whispered back, "Zhao Xin already told the family a few days ago that she woulde over, just didn''t expect the baby toe early. She should arrive in the next couple of days."


    "That''s good then. Don''t worry about meals these two days. I will make some nutritious food for you to supplement, and get your uncle to bring it over or let Zhao Xine collect it."


    Outside the room, Zhao Xin heaved a sigh of relief upon hearing that, "It is really great, I��ll have to trouble auntie these two days. When my momes, there will be someone to cook."


    Zhao Xin in the kitchen was half a cripple when it came to cooking. The meals he made were limited to being edible, clearly not enough for a lying-in woman.


    He had also tried hard to learn, justcked natural talent.


    But Pei Meng was not picky anymore. Other than cooking, his performance in all other aspects was very good. Ever since her belly grew bigger and movements clumsier, he had been the one washing the clothes at home.


    Pei Jing could not bear to see his niece suffer and had also reminded Zhao Xin of things to take note of.


    Zhi Xia also did not disturb them for too long. After letting Pei Meng finish her food, she urged her to rest immediately while emptying her own thermal sk to hurry home.

 Chapter 185: The Happiness of Speaking but not Listening

    <h4>Chapter 185</h4>


    The next morning, Zhi Xia cooked millet porridge. The golden yellow color looked very appetizing. She also specifically made a bowl of steamed eggs.


    It was probably because the fruits added tost night''s meal that after Pei Meng ate and took a nap, she felt significantly better. Zhao Xin also became much more spirited. They attributed this to Zhi Xia''s delicious food energizing them.


    Zhao Xin specifically took a few days off to stay home and look after them. Zhi Xia was responsible for making three meals a day. After two days, Pei Meng recovered a lot.


    Afraid the effects would be too obvious, Zhi Xia didn''t dare give her too many good things, just mildly nursed her so she wouldn''t feel so ufortable.


    Two dayster, Zhi Xia was talking with Pei Meng when Zhao Xin��s mother, who he had gone to pick up, came in the door.


    As soon as she entered, Zhao Mother grabbed Zhi Xia��s hand. ��This must be her auntie. I heard Zhao Xin talk about her on the road. Thank you for taking care of my daughter-inw and granddaughter these past few days.��


    "Sister-inw, don''t stand on ceremony. With my sister-inw not around, it''s only right for me as auntie to take care of my niece. Now that you''re here to help keep watch, I can finally stop worrying." Zhi Xia said with a smile.


    "Of course. Meng Meng brought our family a big granddaughter. She did a huge deed for our family. I will take good care of her." Zhao Motherughed cheerfully. She seemed rather warm.


    Zhi Xia interacted with ease. As she walked out, she nced at Pei Meng still sitting there grinning foolishly and frowned.


    Zhao Mother was still calling enthusiastically from inside, "Sister-inw, I just got here and haven''t even had a sip of water. I won''t go out to send you off."


    "Sister-inw, don''t stand on ceremony. My home is right next door, not far. If Meng Meng needs anything, yelling for me will allow me to hear it." Zhi Xia replied.


    Hearing Zhao Mother say she hadn''t even drank water sinceing in, Pei Meng happened to remember that to make drinking water essible, Zhi Xia had left a warm water bottle by her bedside. She casually said, "Mom, I also can''t get up right now. The hot water is over here. If you get thirsty, just go to the kitchen and pour yourself a bowl."


    "Oh, okay. Let me go unpack first then. You rest for now." Zhao Mother said before heading out.


    Pei Meng didn��t know if she was being too sensitive, but she felt Zhao Mother��s attitude just now was neither cold nor warm. She couldn��t detect any of the warmth Zhi Xia had mentioned.


    Outside, Zhao Xin sent Zhi Xia off and politely thanked her for the past few days.


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment before cautioning, "Don��t get negligent just because your mother is here now to help look after Meng Meng. After all, you and Meng Meng are husband and wife. Your child is both your responsibilities. Your mothering to help shows her heartache for you, but you can��t think that with someone caring for her now, you can just let go."


    Zhao Xin smiled and didn''t get angry at Zhi Xia''s nosiness. "Don''t worry, auntie. I understand. Meng Meng had to lie down because she gave birth to my child. I know what��s going on.��


    Hearing him say this, Zhi Xia felt a little more at ease.


    When she returned home, Wanqing was asleep. Pei Jing was holding Chenye''s little hand to make him toddle around the floor.


    The little guy had a very sturdy body. His solid calves weren''t any worse than a one-year-old''s. Also, recently he had stopped wanting to take afternoon naps and acted quite energetic. He was a bit taxing on the parents though.


    Having to lead him around by the hand and run all over the ce the whole day. He also didn''t want to stay home and kept trying to go outside. He wasn''t afraid of the cold one bit.


    "Is Meng Meng doing better?" Pei Jing happened to ask when seeing Zhi Xia return.


    Zhi Xia walked over with a smile and kissed her son. "Much better. She ate well the past two days. Milk production is pretty good too. With her mother-inw over now caring for her, she''ll likely fully recover after the month long postpartum confinement. And the weather will be warmer then too which is much morefortable than when I did it."


    Seeing no one outside, Pei Jing walked over and gave her a quick kiss by the corner of her lips. He whispered, "It''s good you can properly rest too. After some time when it gets warmer out, I''ll take all of you into town to walk around. Having to watch the two kids at home all day without being able to go out must get tiring. I know it''s been tough on you, Zhi Xia."


    "Not tough at all. They are also my kids. Staying with them makes me happy too." Zhi Xia said blissfully. Although seeing her son in her arms, sheined a little unsatisfied, "But this little stinker getting cooped up at home is driving him crazy. I can barely keep up with him."


    Seeing his mom smile while looking at him, Pei Chenye gleefully lifted his little legs.


    Wanqing was already able to clearly call out mama and papa. This little guy for now still only knew how to call mama and not papa.


    Pei Jing teased him, "Son, call papa... pa-pa......"


    "Scared..." Chenye would copy by making simple sybles, but was unable to enunciate clearly.


    "That reminds me, I don''t know if I''m overthinking things, but I keep feeling like Zhao Xin''s mother doesn''t really like Meng Meng and the baby that much." Zhi Xia sighed. She was still somewhat worried.


    "What happened?" Since Zhi Xia and Pei Meng had a good rtionship, this concern from her made Pei Jing instantly furrow his brows wondering if Zhao Mother had done something obviously problematic.


    "Don''t get mad first. I may be overthinking things." Zhi Xia quickly exined. "I just feel she travelled a long way toe attend to her daughter-inw after childbirth which isn''t easy. But from the moment she entered, she didn''t care about asking about Meng Meng''s condition let alone look at her grandchild. She just grabbed my hand and rambled on and on. The whole time until I left, she wasn''t in a hurry at all to check on the baby even once."


    This was the part that made Zhi Xia feel something was off. Even when neighbors came to see Pei Meng, they would at least ask something about her condition upon entering or think to take a look at the child��if nothing else than for politeness'' sake. That would still be better than not asking at all.


    But Zhao Mother hadn''t done anything too specific. He could only subtly make inferences based on what his wife said. It wasn''t appropriate to openly talk about this with others.


    Who knows. Maybe the woman was just too exhausted from rushing over and neglected to consider things.


    But Pei Jing still kept these words in mind. Their ces were close by with just a short few steps between. He could conveniently go check things from time to time so there was no need to worry too excessively.


    Zhi Xia received another letter from An ZhiAng. The letter mentioned the meat Zhi Xia had left for An ZhiAng was delicious. He also recovered a lot physically. During assessments, he performed exceptionally and was praised by superiors.


    Although the letter was written very vaguely, Zhi Xia could still understand the actual meaning.


    Only after seeing another 15 yuan had been included caused Zhi Xia to sigh helplessly.


    It was An ZhiAng''s second year in the army. His monthly allowance was only 8 yuan. He had virtually no living expenses in the barracks so would send all his extra money to Zhi Xia.


    She had clearly told himst year when visiting to not do this, but it appeared the talk didn��t have any effect.


    Zhi Xia borrowed the military''s phone to call him. After informing she wanted to speak with An ZhiAng, she hung up and waited a bit before An ZhiAng called back.


    His voice still sounded bright. Having rushed over, he was still slightly panting.


    Phone fees were expensive so Zhi Xia could only be blunt. "Fourth brother, didn''t I already tell youst time to stop sending me money? I''m notcking money to spend. Why did you do it again..."


    "I know you aren''tcking money, but I just want to give some to you." There was a brief moment of dejection in An ZhiAng''s voice, but he quickly rebounded. "Little sister, you know that I eat and drink everything provided by the army. And there''s no ce for me to spend money. If I just keep it on me, who knows when I might lose it. So I might as well just give it to you for you to hold onto. I''m your big brother. Giving you some pocket change is only natural!"


    Zhi Xia wanted to try persuading him again but got cut off by An ZhiAng. "An ZhiXia, if you keep talking like this, does it mean next time when you send me delicious things you want me to pay you back for them too?"

 Chapter 186: Contradiction

    <h4>Chapter 186</h4>


    Knowing Xia felt both happy and helpless.


    After a long silence, thousands of words condensed into one sentence, "Fourth Brother, you''re so good."


    She wanted to monopolize all his love, but she knew it wasn''t right.


    Eventually, Fourth Brother would marry and have children. She didn''t know how long his affection for her wouldst once he had his own family.


    Nevertheless, Xia knew she loved him the most.


    His ce in her heart was always different from anyone else''s.


    Since he had said so, she could only ept the money for now and give it to him when he found a partner. That way, she wouldn''t spend it recklessly as he had suggested, risking losing it somewhere.


    Xia had no doubt about this statement because her grandmother had said the same thing before.


    On the way back, Xia smiled sweetly, clearly in a good mood.


    Not in a hurry to go home, she went to Pei Meng''s ce since she hadn''t seen him for two days. Pei Jing had been visiting all along.


    Zhao Xin wasn''t home, the front door was open, and no one was in the living room. The sound of a child crying came from the room, so Xia went straight to her bedroom.


    Pei Meng was changing the baby''s diaper. Her eyes were red, tears on the verge of falling, looking very wronged.


    The baby had just soiled the diaper, and the diaper with feces was thrown into a bucket on the floor, which was already filled. The smell in the room wasn''t pleasant.


    "What''s wrong? Where''s your mother-inw?" Xia quickly took over her actions and wrapped the baby in a nket.


    "She has a headache. She''s resting in the room," Pei Meng replied with an unpleasant tone, showing some resentment.


    Xia took the sleeping baby and ced him on the bed, then carried the bucket with the soiled diapers out of the room.


    The window faced the bed, but she didn''t dare open it for fear of letting in the wind. She could only open the door to let some air in.


    Seeing her like this, Xia didn''t rush to ask her what happened. Instead, she asked, "Did you have lunch?"


    "I made two bowls of sweet soup and filled my stomach." Because she was concerned about Zhao Xin''s mother''s headache, she thoughtfully made two bowls for her as well.


    Little did she expect that because she didn''t clean the bowls and pots after eating, she would be so upset.


    She still remembered her mother-inw''s suggestive words, "Meng Meng, you''ve given birth for several days now. Your sisters-inw all went to work soon after giving birth, and nothing happened to them. Of course, you don''t have to work here since you''re following the military, but Zhao Xin goes to the barracks every day, which is already hard enough. These household chores can''t all be left for him to do when hees back. Things likeundry, cooking, taking care of the child, and washing diapers, I''ve been helping out these past few days. When I leave, how will you manage..."


    At that time, Pei Meng smiled and replied, "Mom, you don''t have to worry about that. Look, when you weren''t here, the two of us were doing just fine, right? It''s only because I just gave birth that Zhao Xin has been a bit busier. Once I''m out of confinement, I can take care of everything at home."


    Zhao Mu retorted, "That''s why I need to talk to you more. I didn''t know how you two were living before, but I''ve seen it these past few days. You spend all day lying in bed without moving, and it''s only Zhao Xin who takes care of things both inside and outside the house. Laziness bes a habit. It''s because I, as an elder, care about you both that I want to take this opportunity to teach you how to live your life. Don''t be angry. Learning how to live is essential..."


    Pei Meng felt annoyed. Wasn''t she lying in bed all day because she had just given birth to a child?


    The weather outside was cold, and her sister-inw had specifically instructed her not to go out. Her mother had also written a letter reminding her to take care of her health and to properly observe the postpartum recovery period.


    Her sister-inw had taken care of her during the most difficult two days withoutining about herziness. She even prepared various delicious meals to help her regain her strength.


    Of course, her sister-inw was skilled in cooking, so it wasn''t fair to make aparison. These past few days, she had eaten whatever was served and didn''t dare to be picky.


    But Zhao Xin had clearly caught several fish and kept them in arge tank, yet she hadn''t eaten a single one and was now being used ofziness.


    She regretted asking her mother-inw toe and help.


    Even though she had waited a whole day before Zhao Xin returned home to wash the baby''s diapers, Zhao Mu still imed that the child was difficult to handle and that there was too much urine and feces to take care of.


    Pei Meng felt aggrieved and had no one to talk to. If she mentioned it to Zhao Xin, it would seem like she was making a big deal out of being a daughter-inw.


    When Zhao Xin was at home, Zhao Mu was diligent, cleaning the house and taking care of the baby. But as soon as Zhao Xin left, she became miserable.


    Zhi Xia didn''t know about these things yet, but she could guess that Pei Meng was being treated unfairly.


    "Are you still hungry? I remember Zhao Xin caught some fish specifically to help you with breastfeeding. Otherwise, I can stew some soup for you?" Zhi Xia asked.


    Pei Meng nodded gratefully, "Thank you, sister-inw. I won''t be polite."


    During the two days Zhi Xia took care of her, she had small meals throughout the day. It was cold outside, so keeping the food warm on the stove was convenient.


    But Zhao Mu wouldn''t do the same for her. Talking to her was useless, and she was getting hungry. Two eggs were simply not enough.


    Moreover, perhaps due to the dry food she had been eating these past few days, she was experiencing some severe constipation.


    Zhi Xia told her to rest for a while and went to the kitchen to kill the fish and stew the soup. The water was boiling on the stove, and by the time she finished killing the fish, the water was also ready.


    She added some oil and fried the palm-sized crucian carp until both sides turned golden without adding salt. Then she poured the boiling water directly into the pot, turning the fish soup milky white in an instant. Even before it was finished, a fresh aroma filled the air.


    When the soup was ready, Zhi Xia scooped the boiled cabbage heart from the hot water into the fish soup, sprinkled some salt, and it was ready to serve.


    A whole fish stewed in the soup filled a bowl perfectly, and nothing went to waste.


    Zhi Xia carried the fish soup into the room, and the smell dispersed. She closed the door before asking Pei Meng what had happened.


    After learning about the events of the past few days, it wasn''t surprising at all.


    That day, she felt that Zhao Xin''s mother didn''t like children. Pei Jing came over every day to check on her, but he never said anything. She thought she was just being overly sensitive.


    However, she overlooked the fact that Pei Jing, being a grown man, couldn''t really ask about the rtionship between Pei Meng and her mother-inw. He could only feel relieved as long as he saw that things were going fine for her.


    Little did she know that many things felt suffocating in her heart, yet she had nowhere to express them.


    A woman who had just given birth was naturally more sensitive and suspicious due to the hormonal changes in her body. Pei Meng endured the frustration throughout her postpartum period, but it was no wonder if it left some hidden illnesses.


    "Meng Meng, you''re not a child anymore. You need to understand one thing: good people are taken advantage of, and good horses are ridden by others. You may feel ufortable telling Zhao Xin about these things, but some people take advantage of this very fact." Zhi Xia looked at her and said, "Don''t think that once you get through the postpartum period, everything will be fine. The first impression matters to anyone, and in your case, you will have plenty of opportunities to interact with her in the future. If she sees you as an easy target, she will bully you for a lifetime. On the other hand, if she sees you as someone strong, she won''t dare to challenge you again..."


    Zhi Xia could see through Zhao Xin''s mother''s intentions.


    But how to solve this problem still depended on Pei Meng''s own thoughts. Even as her maternal family, Zhi Xia didn''t have the habit of rushing to help.


    First and foremost, Pei Meng needed to establish herself and understand Zhao Xin''s attitude. Pei Jing and Zhi Xia would never stand by and watch her being bullied.


    If she couldn''t stand up for herself, no amount of help would be useful because no one could stay by her side forever.

 Chapter 187: Decide to Rebel

    <h4>Chapter 187</h4>


    Pei Meng listened to Zhi Xia''s words and recalled the things that had happened over the past few days. She could not hold back her grievances anymore and tears kept streaming down her face.


    Ever since getting married, the rtionship between her and Zhao Xin had been great. With uncle and auntie setting a good example beside them, Zhao Xin was attentive and caring, if not waiting on her hand and foot.


    She was also afraid that their marital bliss would be ruined by the mother-inw. That was why she endured, thinking that she just needed to grin and bear this difficult period and things would get better.


    She also felt that Zhi Xia made a lot of sense.


    Recalling the time before their marriage, Zhao''s Mother was very kind and cordial to her, treating her better than her own daughter.


    But the first time she and Zhao Xin returned home after their marriage, Zhao''s Mother started testing her boundaries. Later, she acted as if it was only natural to order Pei Meng around to do chores. She used the excuse that Pei Meng was newly married and didn''t know how to run a household. So she wanted to teach her well while Pei Meng was staying with them.


    At first, Pei Meng felt something was off but Zhao''s Mother sounded reasonable, doing everything for Pei Meng''s own good. Pei Meng was indeed unfamiliar with many household tasks before marriage. So she thought she should just learn and endure.


    Luckily they didn''t stay for long before Pei Meng and Zhao Xin returned to the army. Finally, Pei Meng felt rxed again in her own home.


    Having a child should have been a joyous event. Both her and Zhao Xin were ted. They didn''t expect that Zhao''s Mother would dislike the child. Whenever Zhao Xin was not home, she wouldn''t evene over to take a look.


    Seeing Pei Meng cry so badly, Zhi Xia also reflected whether she went overboard. After all, unlike herself, Pei Meng was just 20 years old this year. If not for peoplemonly marrying early in this period, she would still be a pampered girl in modern times.


    Zhi Xia pulled Pei Meng into her arms andforted her, patting her shoulder, "There, there. Don''t cry. You''re still in your confinement month. Crying will ruin your eyes."


    Pei Meng nodded and sat up straight, bravely wiping away her tears. "Auntie, I understand what I should do now. I won''t let others bully me anymore."


    "That''s the right attitude," Zhi Xia said. "In this life, other than your parents who gave birth to you, no one owes you anything. She''s an elder, yes, but that can''t be a reason to mistreat and control you. You have to stand up for yourself, then no one will dare bully you."


    The room door was suddenly pushed open. Zhao''s Mother squeezed herself in with a smile, "Oh, sister-inw is here. I was wondering where the missing fish from the water tub went. The pot has been used too. It sure has inconvenienced you to help care for Meng Meng while taking care of your two kids. It''s my fault that my health can''t take this weather here and I got a headache. I was so ufortable that I didn''t even cook."


    "It''s no trouble for me at all. But sister, you should have told me earlier if you were unwell. I could havee over earlier to help care for Meng Meng. Confinement month is critical for women. With this cold weather, catching a chill from water or wind could give you chronic headaches like sister in the future. Then the whole family will suffer. Not only will you not be able to care for others, you''ll need others to care for you instead." Zhi Xia said with a smile. Her words sounded rather sarcastic to Zhao''s Mother.


    Seeing Pei Meng''s red rimmed eyes, she wondered if the girl had ratted her out.


    It was such a small matter, yet Pei Meng made a big fuss out of it.


    Zhao''s Mother sighed, "Sister-inw, it is my mistake. I was just feeling a little ufortable and wanted to lie in bed to feel better. I didn''t expect to oversleep. With two kids at home, how could I inconvenience you like this?"


    "It''s no inconvenience for me. My two rascals at home are very well-behaved. They nap everyday around this time, giving me a nice break before dinner time." Zhi Xia said, "Sister, please don''t stand on ceremony with me next time. Also, the fish in the water tub were caught specially from the river by brother-inw and Zhao Xin for Meng Meng''s confinement meals. Good nutrition is important for nursing mothers after all. Don''t feel bad for her just because she''s your daughter-inw. Brother-inw can catch more after she''s done with these. At the minimum, we uncles and aunties have to take better care of her since her parents are not around. Her health cannot suffer during confinement month. Isn''t that right, sister?"


    Zhao''s Mother felt rather awkward from her words. "Sister-inw is correct. It''s not that I begrudge Meng Meng. Having just arrived, my health has not been good. As you can see, I got a headache again today. Don''t worry. I treat Meng Meng as my own daughter. I would never mistreat her."


    "That''s what I thought too, that sister doesn''t seem like the evil mother-inw who bullies her daughter-inw." Seeing that Zhao''s Mother was clearly still concerned about face, Zhi Xia finally felt some relief.


    It was easier to deal with someone who cared about facepared to shameless people. If the other party totally discarded face, things would get very tricky.


    Zhao''s Mother was obviously the cowardly bully type. She would lose steam after a few days if Pei Meng stopped indulging her and Zhao Xin was firm.


    Luckily the couple had a good rtionship. Otherwise, Zhao''s Mother wouldn''t have dared to only sneakily make trouble when Zhao Xin wasn''t looking.


    "Sister is unwell and Meng Meng can''t do any chores during confinement month. I think it''s best if I take care of Meng Meng''s three daily meals. I was already doing that before sister came anyway. Sister can just focus on taking care of herself and Zhao Xin. Help wash the baby''s diapers when you have time. At least you''ll get the title of grandma after the child grows up." Zhi Xia thought to herself that if Zhao''s Mother cooked for Pei Meng, she might sneakily sabotage the food and Pei Meng would have no recourse.


    When Zhi Xia had two kids, Pei Meng helped care for them a lot too. Moreover, Zhao''s Mother was an elder. Helping out now was only right.


    If Pei Meng didn''t eat Zhao''s Mother''s cooking during confinement month right under Zhao Xin''s nose, Zhao''s Mother wouldn''t have the face to exin it to Zhao Xin when he came back. After all, the whole point of asking him toe back was to take care of his wife during confinement.


    "There''s no need for that. My cooking is pretty good too. Meng Meng likes eating it too, doesn''t she?" Hearing Zhi Xia''s suggestion, Zhao''s Mother panicked as expected and quickly looked to Pei Meng. "Meng Meng, hurry and speak. Auntie still has two kids at home. It was one thing when I wasn''t here but now that I am, isn''t it too much to still trouble her like this?"


    She did cook poorly but she told her son that Pei Meng just liked simple, nd food. Pei Meng wasn''t one to tattle. Her son was oblivious and wouldn''t notice such things anyway.


    If Zhi Xia really took over Pei Meng''s meals, the change in quality and taste would be an obvious p to her own face.


    Pei Meng hesitated, looking awkwardly at Zhi Xia. To be honest, she definitely preferred eating Zhi Xia''s cooking. But Zhi Xia still had two kids to care for so it was indeed inconvenient.


    Zhi Xia reassuringly held Pei Meng''s hand. "Don''t worry. I wouldn''t have offered if I couldn''t handle it. At worst, I can skip one or two meals. Your mother-inw is still around too."


    Only then did Pei Meng feel relief and nodded. "Then thank you, auntie. When Zhao Xines back, I''ll tell him to deliver the groceries from home to your ce."


    She wouldn''t get to eat them anyway with Zhao''s Mother at home.

 Chapter 188: No love is better than an enemy.

    <h4>Chapter 188</h4>


    Zhao''s Mother, no matter how capable she was, could not overpower two mouths by herself. Besides, her skills in subtle defiance were nothing to boast about either.


    Not to mention, she didn''t really care about that little bit of food.


    The moment Zi Xia had just left, Zhao''s Mother looked at Pei Meng dissatisfiedly, "Mengmeng, do you think I haven''t treated you well enough? I''ve been treating you like my own daughter, it''s just that the weather here has been too hard on me these past few days. You said... "


    She had broadcast this matter to everyone. I thought dealing with her aunt wouldn''t be difficult since she was quite young, I didn''t expect her to be so slick-tongued.


    She had rendered both hard and soft tactics useless. It seemed I was the only one to be made a fool of.


    The Zhao family was well off, but couldn''tpare with the Pei''s. Zhao''s Mother wanted to take this chance to suppress Pei Meng''s aggression, while also not letting the Pei family know that she was bullying Pei Meng behind their backs.


    "Mother, I know you are in poor health. Haven''t I not asked you to do anything? These days, whatever I could do myself I did. Whatever I couldn''t, Zhao Xin came back to do it. Even when the baby cried, I carried him myself. What more do you want?" Pei Meng was not as sarcastic as Zi Xia. She asked directly.


    Anyway, Zhao Xin was not around. It was just the two of them. Might as well speak frankly instead of beating around the bush.


    Before Zhao''s Mother came, she was actually doing quite well and her body felt much better too. But after working hard these past few days, especially carrying the baby till her arms ached, her body felt even worse than before.


    Seeing her aggressive manner, Zhao''s mother was taken aback. She sighed, "There''s a saying ''Don''t air your dirtyundry in public''. Your aunt isn''t even surnamed Pei. I was just afraid others wouldugh at our family..."


    When Zhao Xin came back that night, Zhao''s Mother was cooking dinner. Pei Meng had wrapped a headscarf around her head, leaving only her face exposed. She brought over the boiling hot water from the stove and poured it into the basin, taking out the diapers to wash.


    He quickly went over to carry Pei Meng into the room. "You''re still in your confinement period. What are you doing with those things? Aren''t mom and I around to do them? Just leave those chores for us."


    Pei Meng sighed, and suddenly said, "Zhao Xin, I think it''s better to let your mom go back to Jingcheng."


    "What happened?" Zhao Xin''s heart tightened. His first instinct was that his wife and mother had a fight.


    "We didn''t consider that the weather here would be too cold for mom. She hasn''t adapted to it. She''s been lying in bed feeling awful every day for the past few days, unable to get up. Even making meals for us takes all her effort. I feel distressed just watching. I was thinking she can''t be much help for us here and is suffering so much herself. Wouldn''t it be better to let her go back? Although life will be tougher for us, at least mom can feel better." said Pei Meng.


    Zhao Xin frowned deeply, looking at Pei Meng for a long time without speaking. He felt like the way she spoke today was strange, almost...like she was channeling his mother.


    That''s right. If not sounding exactly alike, she had certainly learned it well.


    "If you have something to say, say it properly, alright?" Pei Meng was straight-forward by nature. The couple usually spoke frankly to each other. Hearing her talk in such a roundabout way made him feel ufortable.


    Pei Meng almost burst trying to maintain her expression. She looked at Zhao Xin, rendered speechless.


    So he could tell these words were loaded. He just couldn''t tell when they were from his own mother!


    Zhao''s Mother''s tactics were to appear caring on the surface while making people feel ufortable.


    Pei Meng sighed again. She decided not to get hung up over this for now. "It was you who told me to speak directly, so don''t me me for being blunt. It would be better to send your mother back to Jingcheng. She does nothing but sleep from morning to night when you are not home. I have to take care of her instead of the other way around when I''ve just given birth and my body really can''t handle serving others. I''ve already asked my younger aunt to help cook for me to get by until my confinement period is over..."


    It was getting harder for Pei Meng to hold it in the more she spoke. Her nose turned sour and her throat choked up with the urge to cry.


    Zhao Xin knew Pei Meng well. She appeared carefree on the surface but he didn''t feel she would lie to him.


    But then he remembered what his mother told him. "The baby made such a fuss being carried in my arms all day that they became sore. He would pee and poop constantly, and I couldn''t change his diapers fast enough. I washed one basin full and there would be another. And Mengmeng is delicate too..."


    Zhao''s Mother had been listening at the door. She knew best what she had and hadn''t done these days here. Hearing Pei Meng actually tattle made her instantly nervous.


    When Zhao Xin exited the room, he saw Zhao''s Mother busy cooking in the kitchen while tearing up,pletelyid bare of grievances.


    "Mother, why are you crying?" Zhao Xin still remembered he was the most doted on child at home when he was little. He had run off to join the army at 14. After that he seldom returned home.


    "I''m upset that my body has failed me. I came to serve Mengmeng and the baby, but the weather here is just too cold for me. I''m not used to it either. Doing a little work makes me ufortable, let alone today when I had a headache. I just went to sleep and forgot to get up again. I didn''t expect...Meng Meng to harbor so many grievances against me. I haven''t been helpful, rather I''ve created more trouble for you!"


    Zhao Xin felt even more troubled. He pulled Zhao''s Mother into the room. "Mom, you should have told me earlier if your body couldn''t adapt to the weather here. Mengmeng didn''t mean to resent you on purpose either. You know she can''t move around during confinement and still has to care for the child. It''s normal for her to feel frustrated if things get too overwhelming. You should have told me sooner and I could have figured something out instead of letting you twoe to disagreement."


    "What could you have figured out?" Zhao''s Mother did feel somewhat guilty. It was true she couldn''t tolerate the weather here, but saying she couldn''t do any work at all was an exaggeration.


    She wanted to show some authority over her daughter-inw and make her docile earlier on so there wouldn''t be problems of filial disobedienceter.


    Zhao Xin said, "Mengmeng is my wife. My heart aches seeing her bear my child. You are also my mother. I ache just as much seeing you suffering. Since you can''t tolerate the weather here, I can''t watch you persevering painfully either. Mom, I''m going to buy you train tickets to go back tomorrow, okay?"


    Zhao''s Mother couldn''t believe her ears. "How can that be allowed? If I leave, what about Mengmeng? I came to serve her confinement period. Leaving after just a few days would make us aughing stock!"


    What would she say when she returned home and the old man asked why she came back so quickly?


    She had left enthusiastically but would now return sullen-faced. Wouldn''t that let her two daughters-inw at homeugh at her?


    But Zhao Xin had made up his mind, seizing on one crucial point - the wife came first, then the mother. Since she couldn''t tolerate the weather, he absolutely couldn''t make her persevere painfully here.


    Zhao Xin was very open-minded about this. He would be happiest if his mother and wife could get along living together, but if they couldn''t he wouldn''t force things either. They lived far apart anyway. It was best to resolve issues early on. Even without affection between them, at least it was better than bing enemies.

 Chapter 189: Reverse the sex of Two Children.

    <h4>Chapter 189</h4>


    Zhao''s Mother looked at her son, who was pretending to care for her but was actually trying every means to make her leave. No matter how much she objected, it was futile. For the first time, she felt that raising this ungrateful son was a waste.


    The saying "a married son is like spilled water" is indeed true. She wondered what was the point of raising a son.


    Pei Meng was eavesdropping behind the door. Seeing that Zhao Xin was determined to make his mother leave, she finally felt relieved. If Zhao''s Mother stayed any longer, Pei Meng feared she would be depressed to death before even getting through her postpartum confinement month.


    When Pei Jing came home, he saw Little Aunt had already prepared dinner. There were 4 dishes on the table - stir-fried pork with chili, steamed fish, saut��ed prawns and stir-fried vegetables, along with 4 big homemade steamed buns. Only their family could afford such a spread.


    Ever since Little Aunt''s space was exposed, she no longer hid anything from Pei Jing. As a result, their family''s living standards had greatly improved.


    As usual, Pei Jing closed the door as soon as he entered. There was a wash basin by the door where he could wash his hands. After that, he yed with the kids briefly before sitting down for dinner.


    Little Aunt handed him the thermal lunch boxes. "Send these to Meng Meng first before you eat. And bring two buns for her too."


    "Alright, I''ll go ahead first. You can start eating first, no need to wait for me." Pei Jing assumed these were extras specially prepared for Pei Meng so he didn''t ask further and headed over.


    Only after arriving at Zhao Xin��s ce did Pei Jing feel something was amiss.


    He could see from the living room that the doors of both bedrooms were shut. Smoke was also billowing from the kitchen where Zhao Xin was busy alone.


    Pei Jing didn��t bother with all that first. He knocked on Pei Meng''s door and heard her voice before entering.


    "Your little aunt made this food delivery. Hurry up and eat while it''s hot." Pei Jing went over to check on mother and daughter. Seeing they were both doing fine, he was relieved.


    "The food is here, great! I was craving little aunt''s cooking." Pei Meng quickly got out of bed to eat, "Younger uncle, please thank little aunt for me. She really shouldn''t have troubled herself."


    "Alright, enjoy your meal. I''m heading out first." Pei Jing said.


    When Pei Meng opened the thermal box, she saw there were twoyers. The topyer contained ribs and potato soup with red dates and wolfberries. The bottomyer had in congee. The portions were just right for one person.


    She was very touched.


    It wasn��t like there was no meat at home. It was just that no one cooked for her so she couldn��t eat any. Since Zhao''s Mother arrived, the only meat she ate was the eggs shared during meals. She didn��t even get preferential treatment for being a nursing mom.


    After leaving, Pei Jing went straight to the kitchen instead of heading out. Only then did Zhao Xin notice him and greeted him.


    "Where''s sister-inw? Not home?" Pei Jing asked in puzzlement.


    How could Zhao Xin exin that his mother wanted to cause trouble? He could only make excuses to cover up. "My mom wasn''t feeling well today. And thanks for sending food over to Meng Meng."


    Zhao Xin had never felt so guilty before. He had fallen hard for Pei Meng at first sight and pursued her persistently, expending great effort before Pei Jing helped pave the way.


    Yet now, he didn��t even have the face to see Pei Meng��s family when she was enduring such unfair treatment during her confinement month.


    "Since she''s unwell, she should properly rest. I''ll leave you be first."


    When Pei Jing returned home, he didn��t take too long. The dishes on the table were still steaming.


    During their meal, Pei Jing was somewhat distracted. As he listened to Little Aunt talk about Pei Meng, he realized why Zhao Xin acted guiltily before him.


    He had wanted to talk to Zhao Xin properly the next day but Zhao Xin applied for leave instead.


    When Pei Jing went to deliver food again during lunch, he found out Zhao''s Mother had already left. Fortunately Zhao Xin didn��t do anything foolish and Pei Jing felt relieved.


    As the weather grew hotter, the two kids slowly learned how to walk and talk.


    In April of 73, Pei Meng got pregnant again.


    When Little Aunt heard the news, she was shocked. "Little Yueyue is barely over a year old and just learned how to walk. And now you want another child? Can you handle it? What about your body..."


    Zhao Yue was Pei Meng and Zhao Xin''s daughter.


    Normally, it is best to space out births by two to three years. This allows the body to recover properly. But Pei Meng lived close to Little Aunt and often ate nourishing food from her. So physically, she should be fine.


    Over the past year, Little Aunt heard herin frequently about the pains of childcare. Pei Meng even said that seeing Little Aunt handle two kids with such ease, she assumed it was effortless. Only when she had to do it all day herself did she realize the agony.


    Little Aunt understood her plight since she had the advantage of her space and nanny robots. So she oftenforted Pei Meng.


    "Physically, I''m fine. I feel good normally too. I have to get pregnant again anyway and I''m anxious too. Little Yueyue is a girl. I must give birth to a son for her."


    Pei Meng didn''t n to have another child so soon. But during herst visit back, both her mother-inw and mother urged her. So she was persuaded.


    Pei Meng didn��t have any siblings. When she was young, she often saw how her uncle��s wife would unt arrogantly before her mom for having a son. So she developed a conviction that she must bear a son to avoid being bullied.


    Now that she was already pregnant, all Little Aunt could do was tell her to take care of her health.


    When Pei Jing learned of this matter, he remained very calm.


    One look at their residential area showed that those who practiced contraception were rare. Basically, they just gave birth once pregnant. Some families had seven to eight kids.


    As for raising them, they wouldn��t starve to death anyway.


    Childcare was very crude at this time. Once the kids could walk on their own, the adults would go on with their own matters while the younger ones followed the older ones around. It was hard to find someone as attentive with childcare as Little Aunt.


    Even if there were such people, it was only because they had too few kids so they doted on their only darling.


    Fortunately, Little Aunt only fussed when the kids couldn''t walk yet. Now, she rarely supervised them and even hoped for them to go out and y more.


    This was because she discovered that Pei ChenYe had be a homebody. He wasn''t keen to go out at all and justy around readingic books at home.


    On the other hand, Pei Wanqing was a little wild child whom they couldn''t call back home.


    At times, Little Aunt wondered if her kids'' genders got swapped. They weren''t like thisst year.


    Just as she was thinking this, Pei Wanqing came back from outside. She was barefooted and still wearing her brother''s clothes, looking like a muddy monkey. Her hair even had clumps of dried mud. Little Aunt instantly got a headache and red at Pei Jing. "Go discipline your daughter! She''s really beyond help."


    Pei Jing was also very helpless. As he walked over to take a look, there was no clean spot on her that he could grab.


    Just as he was about to ask what happened, Little Firecracker Pei ChenYe charged out from the room. "Pei Wanqing! Who allowed you to wear my clothes? Don''t you have your own? "


    Pei Wanqing was clearly somewhat guilty. "You can''t wear them all anyway. What''s wrong with me wearing them asionally?"


    "You still shouldn''t randomly wear my clothes. Otherwise people might mistake you for me!" Pei ChenYe yelled angrily. "Look at how dirty you are. You''re an eyesore. I don''t want you ruining my reputation when you go out."


    "Stinky brother! You despise me? Fine, I won''t bother with you anymore."


    "Don''t bother then! I won''t bother with you too."


    The two kids snapped back and forth at each other, neither willing to back down. They''d get upset over the smallest disagreement and ignore one another.

 Chapter 190: Encounter with the Deceased

    <h4>Chapter 190</h4>


    The two-year-old little kid was able to speak quite fluently. When they started a quarrel, it really looked authentic.


    Zhi Xia and [Pei Jing] didn''t worry at all. Anyway, it was always like this - in the next second before they managed to advise them, the two had already gone to y together again.


    One could only say, once used to it, things be alright.


    After they finished quarrelling, [Pei Wanqing] was taken by Zhi Xia to the bathroom. She was responsible for bathing the kids while [Pei Jing] was responsible for washing her dirty clothes.


    There was mud stered all over them that could only be scrubbed clean with a brush.


    After washing, she was thrown back into the room for confinement and given a penalty to count from one to a hundred while [Pei Chenye] conducted the supervision.


    After dinner, when [Pei Jing] and Zhi Xia returned to their room, they saw [Pei Wanqing] also sneaking in.


    "Mom, Mom, would you sleep with me and brother tonight?" [Pei Wanqing] pouted her little mouth pitifully, pulling at Zhi Xia''s hand, refusing to stop shaking it, "Your two babies miss you so much, please apany me and brother..."


    Seeing this little monster proficient in messing with the world, [Pei Jing] directly pulled her to him and asked, "Wanqing, do you still remember what you saidst night? You and your brother are big kids now, you need to learn to be independent. Go back to your own room and sleep right away."


    [Pei Jing] also felt helpless. Other families'' little daughters were all little darling girls yet his always felt kind of leaky.


    Ever since he had let them sleep in separate rooms at the beginning of the year, every other three to five days his wife would get robbed. Recently it had be even more tant.


    "No no, Dad is older than me and Dad hasn''t be independent ..."


    The little fellow made [Pei Jing]''s veins bulge out. It was unreasonable to reason with her. She was simply an abrasive little monster.


    Zhi Xia helplessly surrendered, carrying up the child, "Forget it, I''ll apany them to sleep."


    It was always said like this, but every time the kids fell asleep, she fell asleep too.


    In the middle of the night, in a daze, Zhi Xia felt herself being carried up.


    A strange sensation rose up. Only then did she open her eyes. Her body had already been stripped naked.


    He gave a muffledugh, the warm breath spraying beside her ears, reminding her, "Zhi Xia, Chenye and Wanqing are over two years old now. [Zhao Xin] is already expecting a second baby. Shall we have another one too?"


    "OK." Zhi Xia was also thinking they should have another one. He was already twenty-nine. To have childrenter would also impact the quality.


    At this moment, having only two kids was still too few. Whether boy or girl, giving birth to one more, when the second child grew a little bigger and policies were expected to loosen, it would be just right.


    Starting from that day, [Zhao Xin] felt like he had triggered a Hell mode.


    Whenever there was free time, [Pei Jing] would teach him how to cook while supervising at the side. If it was done just a little poorly, it would draw a flood of criticism and he couldn''t fight back.


    His wife was pregnant. Obviously they couldn''t count on his mother-inw. Having known [Pei Jing] for not a short time, [Zhao Xin] could probably understand what he meant.


    When [Pei Meng] gave birthst year, she had depended on her aunt''s deliveries for meals during confinement. Now expecting the second baby, [Pei Jing] couldn''t bear Zhi Xia taking care of the kids while still having to serve others. Naturally [Zhao Xin] would have to take over this responsibility.


    After he learned how to cook, it could be considered a once and for all matter.


    Getting tested pregnant in June led Zhi Xia to suspect she really had a legendary easy-to-conceive physique.


    From deciding to have the child until now, it was less than two months in total. Calcting by her menstrual period, she was already one month pregnant.


    Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-inw had started preparing since she gave birth the first time. Their twins were already two and a half years old but still hadn''t conceived so far.


    Of course, that was also rted to them being apart more and together less.


    By October, Zhi Xia''s stomach had already slightly bulged.


    And [Pei Meng], carrying her seven month belly, finally decided to take [Zhao Yue] back to Jin City to await giving birth.


    Although Zhao Mother was unreliable, her own birth parents were still there. She had also discussed with [Zhao Xin] beforehand that she would be staying at the Pei family residence and would never live alone at the Zhao family residence. As for the Zhao family side, [Zhao Xin] could exin it himself.


    [Zhao Xin] took leave to send them back, needing to make the round trip journey of a few days. This was equivalent to, when [Pei Meng] gave birth, he would have no way of returning.


    In the twelfth lunar month, Zhi Xia was over seven months pregnant. Originally when she first said she was pregnant, the two kids didn''t have much awareness.


    But as her stomach grew bigger, they suddenly realized they were going to have a younger brother or sister. Even the mischievous [Pei Wanqing] suddenly became well-behaved and obedient.


    Sometimes she would even act like a little adult, insisting that Zhi Xia lie there while she lie on the stomach talking to the baby inside.


    Zhi Xia hung the washed clothes out to dry in the yard. [Shen Hongxing] passed by from the side, stared at her stomach for a long time, then suddenly asked her, "Zhi Xia, your seven month belly looks almost like someone about to give birth. Could it be twins again?"


    Zhi Xia smiled. "I also have this suspicion. I''m just waiting for him to make time to take me to the hospital for an examination."


    If it were twins again, it would really be a huge stroke of luck.


    It was just more troublesome to raise more kids. She had originally thought just one more would be good.


    [Pei Jing] apanied her to the city hospital the next day, leaving the dragon and phoenix twins for Sister-inw Fengxia next door to keep an eye on.


    They were shocked when they went to check. Neither had expected Zhi Xia was not having twins this time but directly triplets.


    Zhi Xia sat on the bench in the hospital waiting for [Pei Jing] to ask the doctor about things. When he came back after asking, even the hand supporting her trembled slightly.


    Zhi Xia exhaled with difficulty then heard him ask, "Tired? Should we find a ce for you to rest your feet?"


    "I''m actually still OK. It''s you, aren''t you too nervous?" That was the feeling [Pei Jing] gave her.


    "It''s not that I''m too nervous. I''m just worried about your health," [Pei Jing] frowned. "There are already two kids at home. And now suddenly three more areing. I''m also afraid I won''t be able to copeter on."


    He actually wanted to bring up returning to Jin City to give birth but was afraid she would be unhappy hearing it.


    Not long after leaving the hospital, a somewhat familiar figure came running swiftly, crashing towards Zhi Xia''s side.


    Luckily [Pei Jing] moved nimbly, managing to block the child in time.


    The child looked at them then suddenly hugged [Pei Jing]''s thigh. "Uncle, save me, uncle save me!"


    "Isn''t this Eldest Brother Wu''s son?" The child looked simr but after all not having seen him for two years, Zhi Xia didn''t dare confirm it was him.


    [Pei Jing] also discovered this child who had nearly crashed into them was precisely [Wu Lei]''s son, much taller than two years ago but his looks hadn''t changed much.


    "What''s going on? Why are you running around alone? Where are your parents?" [Pei Jing] looked at the child''s outfit. The padded jacket he wore was old and dirty, full of patches. The sleeves and trouser legs were short and old and small,pletely unlike the only child treatment that should be given in a well-off family.


    Could it be [Wu Lei] was unemployed?


    That was [Pei Jing]''s first impression.


    It shouldn''t be so bad, right? The mung bean cakes were very popr at the supply and marketing cooperative where [Wu Lei] worked. And there were now other filling vors too. Even if [Wu Lei] didn''t rely on these to get pay raises and promotions, given his position and business capabilities, there was no way he would be fired to such an extent, right?

 Chapter 191: Treatment

    <h4>Chapter 191</h4>


    Just as he was thinking, he saw two people with red sleeve badges chasing over. "You little bunny, stand still for me. You''re young but can run pretty fast. Watch me teach you a lesson today..."


    Seeing someone chasing, Wu Xiaohua held Pei Jing''s hand even tighter and took a few steps back, hiding himselfpletely behind Pei Jing.


    Even though he had been extremely careful, he was still spotted by the chasing men. Fortunately, Pei Jing was wearing a military uniform, which made the chasing men extra polite.


    "Comrade soldier, do you know this kid?" The man with the red sleeve badge pointed at Wu Xiaohua hiding behind him, a puzzled look in his eyes.


    "Can''t say I know him well, but I''ve seen his father a few times before. Comrades, I see you''re chasing after him. May I ask what''s the matter with the child?" Pei Jing asked.


    "He stole stuff. It''s not his first time either. The previous two times we let him go because he''s just a pitiful child. But this time he did it again, and we can''t keep turning a blind eye," the man replied helplessly.


    "Comrades, there must be some misunderstanding here. This child''s family..." Pei Jing wanted to say his family was well-off, but looking at how the boy was dressed, there was a huge difference from two years ago.


    "Comrade, since you said you''ve seen his father before, I assume it was a long time ago, right?" The man also picked up on Pei Jing''s hint and sighed. "To tell this child''s story, he''s really pitiful. His dad is in prison for crippling someone. His mother ran offst year. Now it''s just him alone. We know he''s pitiful, but that can''t be a reason for him to steal!"


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia looked at each other, surprised by the turn of events.


    They didn''t expect this to be the case. Although Wu Lei was cunning, he had always been kind to others, wearing a silly grin for everyone. The neighbors also had nothing but praises for him.


    As a smart man, even if he was extremely furious, there were many other ways for him to handle things instead of directly beating someone to disability.


    It''s not that he shouldn''t retaliate, but taking actions that would implicate himself was very much unlike someone like Wu Lei.


    As for Zhang Lin running away, there wasn''t much surprise.


    She was the reason why they decided not to get too close with Wu Lei in the first ce.


    Hearing what happened to his parents, Wu Xiaohua seemed to have gotten used to it already.


    Head lowered, he let go of Pei Jing''s legs, quietly standing aside without a word, not refuting anything said about his parents.


    Pei Jing turned to the silent Wu Xiaohua and let out a helpless sigh. He walked forward a few steps. "May I have a word with you two?"


    Even if what they said was true, saying bad things about someone''s parents in front of a child must have been psychologically damaging.


    The red sleeve badge man followed Pei Jing to the side. The three of them talked about something. Pei Jing paid topensate what Wu Xiaohua stole. The two men didn''t make things difficult for them. After all, he was just a child, looking very pitiful.


    Pei Jing came back and looked at Zhi Xia. "Let''s find a ce to sit first. I''ll go buy some food."


    It was only now that Pei Jing found out Wu Xiaohua had stolen two buns from someone. The previous two times were also food, not much in quantity. That was why he wasn''t pursued too harshly.


    Wu Xiaohua''s expression was calm, not like that of a child''s. He suddenly bowed deeply to Pei Jing and Zhi Xia. "Thank you for helping me. I''ll head home now."


    He turned and ran off without giving them a chance to respond.


    "What''s going on?" Zhi Xia looked at Pei Jing.


    "I asked just now. It''s as they said. Now there''s only Wu Xiaohua left in the Wu family. He probably stole because he was starving badly. What he stole these few times were all food," Pei Jing replied.


    Perhaps it was because they were already parents themselves, but they couldn''t bear seeing a child suffer.


    Moreover, to be fair, it was truly too bad for someone as capable as Wu Lei. But he did beat someone to disability.


    "Pei Jing, I remember brother Si mentioning they have nurseries in his town. Should be some around here too right? Can we help Wu Xiaohua?"


    "Wu Xiaohua is already over 10. Nurseries take in infants or younger children. He''s too old and can take care of himself already. They probably won''t ept him," Pei Jing thought for a moment and said, "But the street office should be able to arrange something. If you want to help him, we can go ask."


    Since Wu Xiaohua had no parents now, the street office holds responsibility too. Whether due to difficulty in arranging care orck of advocacy for him, the street office chose to ignore Wu Xiaohua''s plight. But if someone were to step up and supervise things, they can''t just watch Wu Xiaohua starve.


    "Alright, let''s go ask then." Zhi Xia thought helping someone was just a matter of effort. Who knows, it might save someone''s life.


    Just as Pei Jing expected, Wu Xiaohua''s existence was a huge headache for the street office.


    A child his age was the most difficult to arrange care and discipline for without parents.


    If he was older, arrangements could still be made to send him to viges in the countryside to fend for himself.


    But he was too young for that. And as an only child, he didn''t meet policies for being sent away, and had no intentions to go either. That was the dilemma.


    After Pei Jing''s intervention, the street office agreed to arrange a temporary job for Wu Xiaohua at the city nursery to help take care of the children, with a ��2 monthly living subsidy and food provided.


    Since it was forced charity work, the street office could only guarantee he wouldn''t starve.


    Even though life had improvedpared to previous years, many still couldn''t afford enough to eat. Expectations couldn''t be too high.


    Helping out took up quite a bit of their time. On the bus ride back, Zhi Xia asked Pei Jing, "The street office won''t just say that for show and continue ignoring Wu Xiaohuater without anyone following up right?"


    As she finished speaking, she yawned and rested her weary head on Pei Jing''s shoulder, breathing evenly as she fell asleep.


    Pei Jing smiled helplessly at her sleeping face. He adjusted her shoulder so she could liefortably on hisp and took off his jacket to cover her in case she got cold.


    By the time they returned to town, it was already mid afternoon.


    The moment the bus stopped, Zhi Xia opened her eyes to find the other passengers had already gotten off.


    Only then did she realize she had been sleeping on Pei Jing''sp. Her face flushed red, wondering if anyone hadughed at them just now.


    "We''ve reached town, let''s get off the bus," Pei Jing said as he helped steady Zhi Xia and took back his jacket, "Cold?"


    Zhi Xia shook her head. Seeing that his hands weren''t icy cold, she touched them, "You know I keep extra clothes in my space. Why didn''t you wake me just now? Even lending me your jacket. What if you caught a cold?"


    "I''m not that frail. This little chill is nothing to me." During missions, they''ve endured far colder temperatures, disguising themselves in the snow. That was truly unbearable.


    "Let''s hurry. Find somewhere discreet first to take out our bikes. The kids must be anxiously waiting for us back home."

 Chapter 192: The Choice

    <h4>Chapter 192</h4>


    In the corner where no one could see, when Zhi Xia took out her bike, she also took out a pair of leather gloves and handed them to Pei Jing, "I know you''re not afraid of the cold, but I will worry for you. Pei Jing, you have to take better care of yourself from now on. We''re going to have five children now. I suddenly feel the pressure is so great!"


    It wasn''t that she was afraid they couldn''t afford to raise them, but that she was afraid they couldn''t raise them well, and that she wouldn''t be able to give equal love and care to each child.


    There were families in theirmunity with seven or eight children, but Pei Jing didn''t have her worries. "Loosen up a bit. The doctor said to keep yourself healthy and not think too much. Maintaining a good mood is very important. After we have this baby, we won''t have any more. No more after this, okay?"


    They had only nned to have one more originally. They just didn''t expect the surprise to be so big.


    The first time it was boy/girl twins, and now it was triplets. What if next time...


    Even he felt the pressure.


    On the road, noticing that Zhi Xia''s whole body was leaning against his back, Pei Jing kept talking to her, for fear that she might fall asleep and fall off identally.


    The setting sun painted half the sky red, and the evening glow shined on them. Zhi Xia felt extremely happy.


    She thought that if her previous life was not an illusion, if that life from Gao Meiyun''s mouth was also real, then she must have used up all the luck from her three lifetimes to be able to meet him.


    All the suffering was just to wee the happiness of being with him.


    Zhi Xia didn''t know what love looked like to others, nor did she know if she had fallen in love with the other person.


    But she knew that every moment with him, she feltfortable and warm.


    He could take care of her in every aspect of life, psychology and body. She was also willing to satisfy his needs. Wasn''t that enough?


    Riding the bike into the big yard, from a distance, Shen Hongxing had already shouted, "Vice Captain Pei, Zhi Xia, how was the checkup?"


    "Thanks to sister-inw, it''s triplets..." Pei Jing��s voice responded cheerfully.


    "Triplets, huh..." The several sisters-inw in the distance exploded like a pot. They were no longer chatting and gossiping. Instead, they chased after Pei Jing and Zhi Xia.


    The door at home was not locked. The twins were inside the house. Shen Hongxing��s little daughter was doing homework at his house, while helping to look after the twins.


    It was just that the girl Pei Wanqing was really restless. As soon as Pei Jing walked in, he saw her running around the house, chirping noisily, which made it difficult for the little girl to focus on her homework.


    Seeing Pei Jing and Zhi Xiaing back, the girl put away her homework and greeted them politely before going back home.


    "Pei Wanqing, you''re too noisy. Keep it down," Pei Jing grabbed the little girl and hugged her in his arms. He wanted to scold her, but he didn''t dare to go too far for fear that she would feel unloved now that Zhi Xia was pregnant.


    It was Zhi Xia who said that with the second child, they should pay more attention to educating and caring for the eldest child, and not show favoritism.


    "Dad is back, dad is back..." Pei Wanqing pedaled her little legs in Pei Jing''s arms. Her two dirty little hands held his face. "Dad, I want to eat delicious food. Uncle''s family has no meat. I want to eat meat."


    "You can eat meat, but don''t run around from now on." Pei Jing shook her little hands left and right as he coaxed her, "Mom''s belly is so big. If you keep running around like this, what if you bump into mom? Mom will get hurt. Then there will be no one to make meat for you."


    "Then I won''t run around."


    The little girl finally looked a little better behaved. Pei Jing put her down and watched her walk towards Zhi Xia. "Mom, sit down."


    She pulled Zhi Xia''s hand to make her sit on the chair, then touched her belly with her little hand, "Little sister, are you good? When will youe out? Big sister will take you to y when youe out..."


    To be honest, at that moment, Zhi Xia envied sister-inw Feng Xia. Her well-behaved daughter was so cute.


    But now, she felt that no one couldpare to her little cotton-padded jacket at home.


    Zhi Xia had just exchanged a few words with her when the sisters-inw who were chasing them squeezed in like a swarm of bees, asking her about her pregnancy in words that tumbled over each other.


    Although she was tired and just wanted to rest at the moment, everyone was showing their concern for her in good faith, so she still forced herself to speak.


    Seeing everyone was out the door, Pei Jing simply picked up Zhi Xia entirely.


    Zhi Xia eximed, and quickly put her arms around his neck, "What are you doing? The babies are still here."


    Pei Jing looked back and saw Wanqing staring at them with her bright eyes.


    "Mom walked a lot today and is very tired. I��m going to take her to rest now, then go to the kitchen to make dinner for you guys. Wanqing, don''t make trouble, okay?"


    "Okay, I will be a good big sister from now on. I will be very well-behaved and obedient." Pei Wanqing promised. Of course, it was uncertain how long this promise couldst.


    Every promise Pei Wanqing made was very sincere, but she never managed to keep it for long.


    After all, she was just a little kid, and it was unreasonable to demand too much of her.


    But with the obvious contrast of Pei ChenYe''s good behavior, she looked more naughty.


    Zhi Xia didn''t expect every child to have good self-discipline. She just hoped that the children could grow up healthy without harming society.


    Zhi Xia was afraid to get into bed and fall asleep immediately. She was also concerned that the little one wanted to eat meat, so she took the braised pork ribs that were cooked in her space and gave them to Pei Jing to make it for the kids to eat first.


    The diet at home was obviously very good. The two little ones were repeatedly told not to talk about the food they ate at home to others. Besides, two-year-old children, even if they did say something, people might not believe it and would probably think they were dreaming.


    Getting up several times that night, she was now starting to go to the bathroom more frequently.


    Pei Jing got up very early and let Zhi Xia continue sleeping while he went to call and tell Zhi Xia��s family that she was pregnant with triplets.


    Not long after he left, Pei ChenYe and Pei Wanqing ran over and snuggled into Zhi Xia''s quilt, and the mother and children continued sleeping.


    After learning about Zhi Xia��s triplet pregnancy, Jin Cheng was of course happy, but worry followed.


    Everyone wanted Zhi Xia to go back to Jin Cheng to give birth, because whether it was medical conditions or caregivers, it was much better there than here.


    Moreover, after the triplets were born, caregivers would still be needed. While Zhou Nuan coulde to take care of the postpartum recovery, she still had her own business to handle and couldn''t stay here for too long.


    Plus the two older kids were only two years old without the ability to take care of themselves. No matter how capable Zhi Xia was, it would be impossible for her to take care of five children alone.

 Chapter 193: A Decision has been made

    <h4>Chapter 193</h4>


    Pei Jing wasn''t the only one concerned about this; Zhi Xia, though she didn''t say it out loud, had also been contemting the same question.


    The difference between having five children and having two children was significant, and she couldn''t possibly take care of them all by herself.


    The best solution would be to return to Jincheng.


    The due date should be at the end of next January, but there was a high possibility that the triplets would be born prematurely, so they needed to be prepared after the New Year.


    The weather this year was still cold, but the snowfall wasn''t as heavy as in previous years, when the snow would block the doors for half a month, preventing anyone from going out.


    Pei Jing wasn''t at home, and she managed to coax the two children into taking a nap.


    After closing the door, she entered the space.


    She opened the interdimensional transaction device and found her friend, the wandering Egg.


    He was the friend she had gained as a reward during the previous encounter with that ck system. Apart from the tigress from the Beast World, there was also the wandering Egg, a human from the interster realm, and another person named Cui Cui, who lived in a time simr to hers.


    Cui Cui, the rich woman from that era, asked, "Egg, do you have anything that can be used to save lives in critical moments?"


    Because there were many things in the interster realm that were too destructive and unsuitable for this era, their interactions mostly involved Egg purchasing supplies from her.


    The wandering Egg clearly had many trading friends, and although he had a lot of star coins, he wasn''t generous and often tried to haggle for lower prices.


    But even so, Zhi Xia still made a small profit. After all, she had the space, and farming and breeding didn''t require much manpower or resources.


    She no longer needed to be as frugal as before, even to the point of not daring to use electricity in the space to save star coins.


    The wandering Egg replied, "There are too many items. You can look for them yourself in my disy cab."


    Upon receiving his response, Zhi Xia began searching on her own.


    There were too many items, most of which Zhi Xia couldn''t afford to buy, so the pictures appeared dim. Only the brightly colored ones were avable for her to choose from.


    Excluding those items she couldn''t purchase, of course, many of which she couldn''t afford even if she spent all her star coins, what remained were the things she could use, and their prices were slightly lower.


    Body-enhancing agents, low-level ones suitable for developing human body functions. The specific effects depended on the individual''s physical qualities and development level. The usage method was to consume it directly, priced at one thousand star coins.


    This was much more valuable than those two child-rearing robots, but without hesitation, Zhi Xia still chose to buy it.


    Pei Jing would probably encounter some trouble in the next two years. Although it wouldn''t be life-threatening, he would have to leave the military and find a new career.


    With Zhi Xia in this world, she clearly understood how much he loved the military. If possible, she wanted to help him change his predetermined fate and allow him to continue his development in the military.


    In the past, she had always worried too much and as a result, became timid and indecisive. However, the arrival of the triplets was too unexpected, and she had made up her mind to return to Jincheng.


    Once she left, she didn''t know when she would be able toe back.


    Zhi Xia had already regarded Pei Jing as the love of her life, so she naturally wanted to leave something to protect him. She couldn''t just sit idly by, knowing that the father of her children was in danger.


    Today, Zhi Xia fed the two children early and let them y in the house by themselves.


    When Pei Jing returned, he could only hear the sound of the children talking in the room. He took a nce inside, spent some time ying with the children, and then came out to have a meal.


    After finishing their meal, when Pei Jing returned to the room after tidying up the kitchen, Zhi Xia had already washed and changed the two children into their pajamas, allowing them to sleep on their own in the room when it was time.


    "What''s going on today?" Zhi Xia seemed to be in a hurry, doing everything exceptionally fast.


    "There''s something." Zhi Xia approached him and took his hand, leading him into the room.


    Opening the drawer, she took out a bottle of low-level body-enhancing elixir and handed it to him. "Pei Jing, this is for you. Drinking it can enhance your physique."


    Seeing her serious expression, Pei Jing guessed that this must be a rare and valuable item.


    "My body is fine, stronger than the average person," Pei Jing held her hand, his gaze intense. "You and the children probably need it more than I do."


    "I can''t take it," Zhi Xia exined. "Although it can enhance the physique, it requires training to develop the body. The greater the intensity of the training, the stronger the body development. I don''t exercise regrly, so it would be a waste for me to drink it."


    She had also considered increasing her own strength, but anything beyond the ordinary was really hard to endure, so she gave up.


    Besides, although she didn''t look fat, her body was in good shape.


    In these years, with the help of the divine doctor sister and her own frequent reading of medical books, she had her body regted.


    In addition, her space contained various medicinal herbs, and she had also learned some basic medical skills and pharmaceutical knowledge.


    And then there was Hu Niu''s side, with the miraculous Snow Crystal Fruit and beast meat with special energy.


    In any case, the four of them had not fallen ill in these past few years, and it was easy to see that these things were rted.


    After Zhi Xia finished exining, Pei Jing took the item from her and opened it, then raised his head and drank it down.


    Seeing his decisive manner, Zhi Xia suddenlyughed. "I told you, and you believe it without question. You''re not afraid that I''ll harm you?"


    Pei Jing only knew about the existence of the space, but he had never seen the world outside the rooms within the space.


    What was even more rare was that he never questioned the strange things about Zhi Xia, giving herplete trust.


    "I''m not afraid. If you really wanted to harm me, I wouldn''t be able to defend against it," Pei Jing pulled her to sit down and ced his hand on her round belly, his handsome face filled with tenderness. "Wife, sometimes I think of you and our child as treasures given to me by the heavens, making me want to protect you both forever..."


    It could be said that before he knew that Zhi Xia was the woman from that night, he had never thought about getting married.


    Having seen hisrades get married and then constantly dealing with family and children matters, eventually having to choose to leave the army and return home, at that time, he was wholeheartedly devoted to the military and felt that family life would be troublesome. No one could shake his desire not to marry.


    Later, the reason he wanted to marry her was mostly because of the rtionship between the two families, which made him unable to avoid taking responsibility for her. However, he didn''t expect that married life would not be as tedious and troublesome as he had imagined...


    Or perhaps, this kind ofplexity and trouble, with her being the other half, became something that he willingly embraced, turning from being tedious and troublesome into happiness and anticipation.


    "That will give you the opportunity to stay with us for a lifetime." Zhi Xia also felt the taste of happiness and reached out to take something else. "Ajing, actually I know that you want me to return to Jincheng for the sake of me and the children. I just can''t bear to leave you, can''t bear to leave our home here, and can''t bear to leave our peaceful and beautiful life now."


    "I''m sorry, it''s the consequence of my greed." In fact, they already had a son and a daughter, and even if they didn''t have a second child, two children were enough.


    But his greedy desire for another child unexpectedly resulted in the sudden arrival of three, which created the current dilemma.


    "You don''t need to apologize. Having children was a decision we both made, and I also love children. These three little ones chose us as their parents, so we should be happy. And I believe that a brief separation will deepen our feelings, don''t you think?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    Pei Jing was taken aback. "Are you agreeing to return to Jincheng?"


    He had been thinking about it these past few days but couldn''t figure out how to persuade her. He had made up his mind to convince her in the next couple of days, but he didn''t expect that she had already noticed his intentions.


    Zhi Xia hugged him, burying her head in his neck and nodded.


    A decision had to be made. If they kept dying, it would be awkward if she gave birth on the train.


    Pei Jing didn''t know whether he should be happy or not.


    For the sake of her and the children, he should be happy, but the family was about to face separation, and he had many regrets.


    "My eldest brother is going back for the New Year this year. I want to take the children and go with him. That way, when I give birth, you cane back to apany me, right?"


    "I will definitely be able to. I will definitely rush back." Pei Jing said guiltily.

 Chapter 194: Can鈥檛 Force it

    <h4>Chapter 194</h4>


    Pei Jing kissed her on the cheek, he really felt very sorry for her.


    After the new year, she would only be 22 years old. Originally not very old, but about to be the mother of five children.


    And as her man, he was unable to apany her and take care of her and the children.


    She had already thoughtfully said he didn''t need to send her back. If he couldn''t even make it back for her giving birth, then he was really worthless.


    Pei Jing only lightly kissed her, but Zhi Xia clung onto him.


    Although they could only briefly caress each other, they couldn''t do much.


    Both of their breathing became heavy as they clung together. Afraid of pressing on her belly, Pei Jing could only stay below her.


    After a while, they finally separated.


    Her eyes were tinged red, her sweet scent was tempting everywhere, but he didn''t dare move again.


    It took a long time before they finally calmed down.


    Zhi Xia continued showing him the nice things she had made for him.


    After she left, there would be no more fresh meat, so she could only leave him dried meat and meat snacks.


    There was also an life-prolonging elixir pill. The divine doctor sister said as long as it didn''t get cold, it could save his life with this pill.


    She had traded a lot of nice things for this pill.


    ...


    Pei Chenye and Pei Wanqing clearly noticed that dad had be much nicer these past few days.


    Of course, it wasn''t that dad wasn''t nice before, just that he didn''t spend as much time ying with them every day like now. Although he always nagged them to be obedient and not bother mom.


    The happy time onlysted a few days before they heard the news that they would be leaving with mom and uncle An Zhiqing.


    Pei Wanqing was still confused. Although she had always known of the existence of grandpa and grandma, thest time she saw them was a fading memory. Being separated from dad to see them, she still felt somewhat unwilling in her heart.


    Zhi Xia didn''t bring much with her, just the clothes for the two kids in her bag. The rest of the things had already been sent back by Pei Jing thest few days.


    Although she had space capabilities, keeping up appearances was still necessary.


    An Zhiqing came in from outside carrying a small bag, "Zhi Xia, ready to go? The military happens to have cars going to the city, so we can hitch a ride."


    "Ready," Zhi Xia quickly responded and walked out from inside.


    Pei Jing was still outside apanying the two little ones. As soon as he heard uncle''s voice calling, Pei Wanqing wailed, "Don''t go, don''t go, daddye with us!"


    The little girl''s voice was very nasal as she looked up, tears falling from her big dark eyes, looking extremely pitiful.


    Pei Chenye didn''t say anything, but hugged Pei Jing''s legs tightly with his little face against them, refusing to let go no matter how much he was called, clearly throwing a tantrum.


    Pei Jing picked up the two in distress, luckily he was quite strong so carrying their weight didn''t tire him.


    He kissed each child''s face beforeforting them, "Chenye and Wanqing be good okay? Go with mommy and uncle first, daddy promises toe find you within a month at most, okay?"


    The two little ones looked at each other, clearly thinking it over.


    "Pinky promise..." Pei Wanqing held out her little finger, white and delicate, like tender scallions.


    "Okay, pinky promise," Pei Jing smiled as he coaxed them, but felt helpless and touched inside.


    Pei Jing also went to the train station to send them off. Along the way, the two kids leaned against him refusing to let go.


    Pei Wanqing was still sobbing intermittently, a rare quiet moment.


    Halfway there, the two little ones fell asleep.


    An Zhiqing went to take the child from him, "Let me carry one, you sure put effort into raising these kids."


    Not like his, always scattered gatherings with his child. There was father-son affection but it definitely wasn''t as deep.


    Every time they met, his child was very unfamiliar with him. Just when they finally got reacquainted, it was time to separate again.


    Pei Jing also felt proud and shook his head, "It''s fine, I can carry them. You should spare your energy, Wanqing is yful, being stuck on the train for days will probably drive her crazy, no doubt you''ll have to coax her more."


    The two kids rested on each of his legs as he hugged them snug against his chest. Even though it was less than a month separation, he already felt the reluctance in his heart.


    Arriving at the station, he showed identification and safely escorted them to the train''s sleeper car.


    His gaze met with Zhi Xia''s. With the whole car full of people, it wasn''t appropriate to say anything. Everything was conveyed silently. Pei Jing suppressed the sadness of parting, reluctantly getting off the train.


    Through the ss window he could still see Zhi Xia''s figure, standing there until the train gradually went further and further away, finally disappearing from sight.


    Wanqing mumbled in An Zhiqing''s arms, then opened her eyes again,shes still wet as she softly asked, "Where''s daddy?"


    "Wanqing be good, we''re going back first. Stay at grandpa''s for a month then you can see daddy again, okay?" Zhi Xia sat next to her and hugged her.


    "Wah..." came muffled sobs but luckily she wasn''t throwing a tantrum.


    Pei Chenye also opened his eyes and held her little hand, saying "Don''t cry anymore. If you cry mommy will also feel sad, she still has little brother and sister in her tummy who will be sad too."


    "Okay I won''t cry, wah... it''s my eyes being bad, I don''t want to cry," Pei Wanqing said as she went to pull Pei Chenye''s hand again, "Big brother, my eyes don''t listen, I don''t want to cry, wah..."


    Zhi Xia couldn''t helpughing softly.


    The little one cried herself to sleep again. The train ride didn''t feel as intolerable asst time. On their previous train ride the two were still ignorant children. After getting over the initial sadness, they were now filled with curiosity.


    The two little ones leaned against the window pointing at the passing nts and scenery, not giving Zhi Xia too much to worry about.


    Returning to Jin City, it was already the 27th of thest lunar month.


    "Zhi Xia, you haven''t been back in a long time. Why not stay home for a while? Your sister-inw was thrilled to know you''re pregnant with triplets. She said on the phone before that she wanted to share in the happiness when you got back. Between us, we''ve been trying unsessfully to conceive for several years already. We should give big brother this chance right?"


    Zhi Xia knew what An Zhiqing meant. He wanted to find an excuse to get her to go back to the An family, wanting her to mend rtions with her parents.


    But after thinking about it, she still said: "Let''s go back to the Pei family first. Knowing we''re back, the kids'' grandfather has probably been looking forward to it. It''s closer to grandpa and grandma''s ce too. First let the elders dote on the kids for a bit. When there''s a chance I''lle by to see you guys."


    "That works too. I''ll send you back to the Peis first." An Zhiqing knew some matters couldn''t be forced.


    Plus he believed that without Gao Meiyun interfering, tensions between Zhi Xia and her parents could at least not worsen. They would surely fade over time.


    Moreover, the greatest victim in this matter was Zhi Xia. Whether intentional or not, her parents ultimately inflicted secondary harm on her. It''s normal she harbors some resentment.

 Chapter 195: The Cutest Born by Oneself

    <h4>Chapter 195</h4>


    Old Pei knew that they wereing back, and had been lingering around the door these past few days.


    The weather in Jin City was clear and sunny. As soon as they got to a ce not far from home, Old Pei came over to greet them.


    "Dad." ZhiXia called out at once.


    "Oh, it''s good you''re back. You must be exhausted from the trip, hurry home and rest." Old Pei looked at her protruding belly and felt it was rather frightening, always feeling it was bigger than most women''s when they were close to giving birth.


    But then again, this was triplets after all, not something ordinary pregnant women couldpare to.


    "ZhiQing, you should also go home and rest your feet. ZhiXia, don''t think about going to your paternal grandparents'' right now. I''ll go tell them you''re back, you should rest if you need to rest, don''t worry about anything else." Old Pei was afraid she would feel it inappropriate not to go see Grandpa An, and force herself to go even if she wasn''t feeling well.


    Right now, nothing was more important than her belly, no one would pick on her for this.


    ZhiXia really was extremely tired from the trip, so she didn''t insist, "Then please help me inform them, Dad. I really am worn out, I''ll go see them after I rest a bit."


    "You go on ahead." Old Pei urged her, then turned to look at the two children hiding behind ZhiXia, "These must be ChenYe and WanQing, oh my, my two little grandchildren have grown so big. I''m your grandfather,st time you came back I was still carrying you around to y..."


    Pei ChenYe walked out from behind and politely called out, "Grandpa."


    "Oh oh, what a good child." Old Pei praised.


    WanQing may usually be boisterous, like a little firecracker, but right now she was hiding behind her brother, not daring to show her face.


    ZhiXia pulled her out and introduced them again. Old Pei was overjoyed, even though she was shy.


    ZhiQing sent ZhiXia and the two children back to the Pei house. The room had already been tidied up. ZhiXia sat exhaustedly on the bed, not wanting to move an inch.


    ZhiQing brought their luggage into the room, "You rest at home, I''ll bring them to see Grandpa and Grandma An, it''ll also keep this little devil from pestering you."


    ZhiXia asked her daughter, "WanQing, do you and your brother want to go with Uncle to see Grandma and Grandpa An?"


    "Okay, mom you rest well at home, I''ll go y for a bit thene back." Pei WanQing looked at her brother, then her uncle, before going to hold ChenYe''s hand.


    Watching their retreating backs, ZhiXia smiled warmly.


    Children may be naughty at times, but they''re your own flesh and blood, you can''t help but find them cute no matter what. And they''re always so thoughtful at critical moments.


    ZhiXia closed the door to her room, took out a Frost Crystal fruit from her space to eat. The fist-sized fruit made her fatigue slowly fade away.


    She took off her thick padded coat, making her belly look even more protruding and round.


    She carefullyid down and pulled up the quilt to cover herself, before closing her eyes to rest. Very soon, she fell asleep.


    When she awoke from her slumber, the sky was already dark.


    ZhiXia opened her eyes. Not seeing the two children in the room, she figured they probably hadn''te back yet.


    She got up and went out. Sister Zhang was washing vegetables in the yard. Seeing her, she smiled and greeted, "ZhiXia''s awake. The two kids are still at Grandma An''s ce having fun. Old Pei hasn''te back either. This afternoon, WenQing brought them to y with firecrackers for a long time, they really enjoyed themselves without making any fuss."


    "That''s good if they didn''t kick up a fuss. I''ll go take a look next door then." ZhiXia also smiled as she replied, then headed out.


    As soon as she stepped out, she saw the three elders all at the door, as well as second and third brother Pei Jianguo. WenQing was running around with the two little ones, followed by a group of neighborhood children.


    "Mom... Mom..." WanQing was running forward, turned around and saw ZhiXia, immediately changed directions and ran over.


    Afraid she would thoughtlessly throw herself at ZhiXia and hurt her, Grandpa quickly called out to stop her.


    Luckily the little girl had been repeatedly reminded by Pei Jing when they were still in the army to be gentle with her currently fragile mother. Seeing there was still some distance when she got to ZhiXia, she stopped herself and carefully walked the rest of the way to hold ZhiXia''s hand. Her other little hand gently touched her belly, "Little brothers, your big sister was very well-behaved today, were you well-behaved too?"


    "Oh? Our WanQing is so well-behaved today." ZhiXia also couldn''t carry her, only able to stroke her little face with her hand, "How do you know they''re all little brothers in my tummy, what if there''s a little sister too?"


    "Then I''ll give her all the little skirts mom made." WanQing cunningly thought to herself, that way she wouldn''t have to wear little skirts anymore.


    Although the little skirts were very pretty, they weren''t convenient for running around and ying in, and she''d get scolded if they got dirty.


    She knew exactly what her daughter was thinking.


    ZhiXia helplessly poked the girl''s forehead, "You little monkey, just because you think you''re so clever."


    ChenYe had alsoe to ZhiXia''s side. The young boy didn''t talk much, giving off a steady feeling somehow, and you could vaguely see Pei Jing''s shadow in him.


    With the two children here, everyone looked over at ZhiXia, all talking at the same time as they gathered around.


    Eldest brother and eldest sister-inw walked out from grandpa''s yard. An Jingzhi and his wife were also here. Old Pei said for them all to go to his home for dinner tonight, Sister Zhang was already preparing the food, Sister-inw Zhou had also gone over to help, sparing ZhiXia from having to run over to the An''s with a huge belly.


    An Jingzhi naturally didn''t dare raise any objections. Even without Old Pei making these arrangements, ZhiXia may not necessarily have gone back with them.


    Although he had made the same choice as Zhou Nan back then,pared to her, he saw the situation much more clearly.


    A wounded heart is hard to mend. Their actions back then had hurt ZhiXia. Now if they wanted to make amends, their daughter didn''t seem to be giving them the chance.


    ZhiXia didn''t see Wang Caixiang anywhere. With so many people around, she also couldn''t ask outright.


    After the meal, everyone dispersed.


    Grandma An was worried about ZhiXia having to look after two children on top of her huge belly, and wanted to coax them into sleeping next door. Unfortunately the two little ones were more sensible now and had their own opinions. Although they didn''t directly refuse, they clearly weren''t willing to agree either.


    "Grandma, dad''s not here. Mom will be scared sleeping alone. My brother and I have to protect mom." These were WanQing''s words. ChenYe at the side was also nodding in agreement,"That''s right, we promised dad beforeing back that we''ll take good care of mom, we can''t go back on our word."


    The innocent childish words made the whole roomugh.


    Because they were reluctant to part with Pei Jing, the two little ones were already very upset on the way here. WanQing had even cried hard for a while.


    ZhiXia was also worried that changing their lodging without apanying them would make then more uneasy, so she said she could manage on her own.


    Sister-inw Zhou helped wash their hands and feet before leaving. With the crowd dispersing, the yard also quieted down.


    Looking up, the stars filled the sky. Just as ZhiXia was about to go back inside, she heard An ZhiXian''s voice behind her, "Little sister, long time no see, do you have time to chat?"


    With so many people around earlier, they didn''t have the chance to catch up. An ZhiXian had deliberately waited for everyone else to leave first.


    ZhiXia looked back. Figuring he wouldn''t have phrased it that way if he didn''t mind others overhearing, she nodded,"Of course, it''s quite cold outside too, let''s go inside."

 Chapter 196: There is No Silver Here.

    <h4>Chapter 196</h4>


    After entering the room, the two children were already lying in bed, tucked under the quilt, but it was still early and they were not yet asleep. Instead, they were chatting to one another in hushed voices.


    There were benefits to raising two children. They could keep each otherpany and would not be clinging to the adults all the time.


    There was a stool in the room. ZhiXia let ZhiXian sit down, then sat herself on the edge of the bed. "Eldest brother, did you want to talk to me about something?"


    ZhiXian did not stand on ceremony and nodded directly. "We are blood siblings. I will speak inly. ZhiXia, a few years ago didn''t you give me a medical book? I have been studying that medical book for the past two years and am very interested in the acupuncture and medicine preparation described in it. Over time I have gained some humble skills. May I ask where that book came from, and if there are other simr books that can be found?"


    Things had been tightly controlled over the past few years. Many famous traditional Chinese medicine practitioners had gotten into trouble. ZhiXian''s medical skills originally tended more towards Western medicine.


    However, since obtaining that medical book, his attitude had gradually changed from casually flipping through it at the start, toter reading it more and more carefully. Naturally this was because the medical book itself was extraordinary.


    As a result, there were no shortage of times when the family members became his "guinea pigs" as he tried out acupuncture on them. From the initial reluctance to indulge him, to the present where grandfather, grandmother and uncle Pei asionally still asked him to give them a few needles to rx their muscles and bones, saying that it made them feelfortable. ZhiXian''s attitude had also be increasingly prudent.


    Since the introduction of Western medicine into the country, traditional Chinese medicine had gradually been reced, and was now even seen as dregs.


    He had previously thought this way too. After all, the effects of Western medicine were more direct and convenient.


    However, after learning about acupuncture for two years and personally verifying the results, ZhiXian was currently clearly more interested in traditional Chinese medicine.


    "If elder brother is truly interested, I can try to find some sources for you." ZhiXia did not reject him, and was happy to help.


    She had no experience with how skilled the genius doctor elder sister''s medical skills were.


    But ording to her, as long as there was still a breath left, there was no patient she could not save.


    If elder brother truly had talent in this area, even if he could learn a tenth of her skills, he would be able to benefit many people.


    Even for herself, who could guarantee a lifelong existence free from illness and disaster? Having a family member highly skilled in medicine would always be advantageous.


    ZhiXian did not ask anything more. He only told her to take care of her health, and that there was no hurry for the medical books. Her health was most important.


    In fact, what he really wanted to ask was, who had provided that medical book. If possible, could he apprentice under them? That would surely be much more effective than learning by himself.


    But they were all smart people. From his little sister''s words, he understood that she did not wish for him to inquire further about the source, otherwise she would not be so close-mouthed about it.


    However that was to be expected. Being born in this time period, even if one did gain true skills, one would have to keep it hidden. In case it provoked anyone''s gaze, things would be unsightly.


    "Elder brother, I didn''t see Wang Caixiang today. Could she and second brother already be divorced?" After all, thest time she left, second brother was already working hard to deal with the Wang family. It couldn''t be that he still hadn''t seeded after two years, right?


    Yet in the family letters she had received over those two years, no one had ever mentioned news about the two of them getting divorced.


    ZhiXian''s previously smiling expression clearly darkened upon hearing ZhiXia bring up Wang Caixiang''s name.


    Of course, this displeasure was surely not directed at ZhiXia, but at Wang Caixiang.


    "Not yet. It should have been settled two years ago, but who knows what Wang Caixiang is thinking. She just refuses to divorce second brother no matter what. Even when he gave her conditions or pressured her, she still wouldn''t agree. When she got desperate she would threaten suicide, causing trouble for the neighborhoodmittee office who kept calling second brother in to talk things over. So the matter has been dragged out until now."


    Upon hearing that name, ZhiXian felt irritated to the point of gnashing his teeth. He cursed, "She''s just pretending to threaten suicide. There are so many ways to really die if you want, yet each time she creates a scene that everyone knows about. She won''t actually die, yet makes everyone disgusted having to keep her around."


    ZhiXia''s first impression was that among the brothers, ZhiXian had the coldest personality. Second brother was gentle, fourth brother was rash, and eldest brother gave off the air of a steady, dignified first son.


    And now, seeing third brother''s furious reaction, she felt that he seemed just like an immortal descended into the mortal world, suddenly full of human touch.


    "Elder brother, don''t get angry over someone like that, you''ll only hurt yourself." ZhiXia tried to cate him.


    Only then did ZhiXian notice his own loss ofposure. He let out a long breath, forcing himself to calm down.


    "Forget it, I won''t talk about her anymore. Just mentioning her makes me nauseous. Fortunately the only trouble she can cause is threatening suicide. She can''t stir up any other storms." ZhiXian suddenly nced at ZhiXia''s stomach. Although she was only a bit over 7 months along, carrying three babies and with the bulk of winter clothing, she looked even bigger and more concerning.


    In particr, ZhiXia''s slender figure gave the impression that she could barely support herself.


    "Little sister, let me take your pulse."


    "Sure, I was thinking of going to the hospital anyway. The medical facilities in Lingjiang City are just average. I''ve only gone to the hospital once beforeing back here and finding out it was triplets." ZhiXia walked over to stand in front of him and pulled up a chair to sit down, stretching out her wrist to ce on the table.


    "Still wouldn''t hurt to go see a doctor at the hospital too. Triplets are..." He wanted to say that while triplets were rare, the danger during childbirth was also rtively greater. But stopping halfway through as to not rm ZhiXia, "Let me take your pulse first. Do you have ns tomorrow? Have mother or elder sister-inw apany you to the hospital to take a look. There''s an elderly doctor in the maternity ward over there who''s very urate at checking the fetus position. Have him examine you properlyter."


    ZhiXian said no more, concentrating on checking her pulse.


    It was about the same as what the doctors in Lingjiang City said. No problems, the fetus state was also good.


    Having finished speaking, ZhiXian also left.


    When ZhiXia turned around, she saw that the two little ones had already closed their eyes under the quilt, breathing evenly in sleep.


    She smiled helplessly, going over to adjust their sleeping postures before lying down herself.


    As if having a sixth sense, as soon as ZhiXiaid down, Wanqing immediately turned over with her little body and snuggled into her embrace.


    ChenYe closely followed his sister''s motions and shifted closer towards them.


    In the middle of the night, ZhiXia heard the sound of whimpers next to her.


    Supporting her belly, she adjusted to a better position before realizing the cries wereing from Wanqing in her sleep, asionally calling out "Papa" between sobs.


    When Jing had left before while in the army, it was still their familiar home. Although they missed him, it did not make them too sad.


    This time was different from before. It was she bringing the mother and children away from Jing. The little ones felt uneasy in their hearts.


    ZhiXia gently patted Wanqing''s back with her hand. Feeling her presence, Wanqing gradually settled back down into deep sleep.


    Suddenly feeling a wet hotness on her hand, ZhiXia opened her eyes. Day had already broken. Over Wanqing''s little head, she and ChenYe exchanged nk looks.


    As if frightened, ChenYe bolted upright with a rumble, noisily waking Wanqing as well.


    "Mama, my butt got wet..." Wanqing mumbled without even opening her eyes fully.


    ChenYe pressed his lips together thinly. An embarrassed flush spread over his young face as he unconsciously tried to deny responsibility. "Wasn''t me who peed."


    Hearing this clearly, Wanqing instantly blew up, disgustingly holding out her hand. "Brother, you wet the bed and got my clothes and hands all dirty!"

 Chapter 197: Strange Man 02

    <h4>Chapter 197</h4>


    Pei ChenYe''s serious little face began to crack, and his tone was no longer very firm. "I told you it wasn''t me."


    "It was obviously you. You peed and still won''t admit it, shame on you..." said Wanqing with a wrinkle of her nose.


    Pei ChenYe seemed to have given up arguing with her. He lifted the quilt and got out of bed, touching his wet butt, at a bit of a loss as to what to do.


    On this side, ZhiXia pulled Wanqing over and said in her ear, "Don''t say anymore. Brother is a big boy now. He will be shy. Be careful or next time when you make a mistake, brother willugh at you too."


    Wanqing wanted to hurry and cover her mouth with her hands, but her little hands were not clean. She thought for a moment before crawling up.


    ZhiXia also got up. Luckily there was Wanqing between her and Pei ChenYe so only her hands got dirty and her clothes were still dry.


    She quickly wiped both children''s hands and found some clothes to change into, helping them put on cotton-padded jackets and pants before letting them go out and wait first while she tidied herself up before going out to get water for them to wash their hands.


    As soon as ZhiXia opened the door, Wanqing went out. ChenYe was hesitant. Just as he was about to leave, he came back, tugging at the corner of ZhiXia''s clothes. "Mom, please don''t tell anyone else I wet the bed, okay?"


    He often heard other women and aunties in thepound talk andugh loudly about their children wetting the bed.


    Although Pei ChenYe was only two years and eight months old, he hadn''t wet the bed in a long time. He didn''t even remember thest time he did it, he just felt it was very embarrassing.


    "Okay, then let''s say you identally spilled water on it when drinking water this morning." Children have self-esteem too. ZhiXia would certainly not build her own happiness on her son''s embarrassment, so she coaxed him. "ChenYe, you''re not even three years old yet. It''s very normal for little kids to wet the bed. Look, when we were in the army, the brothers in thepound were five or six years old and still wet the bed. So don''t feel ashamed. When you grow up you''ll be able to control it yourself."


    "Mm-hmm, thanks Mom." Pei ChenYe still seemed to be in low spirits.


    ZhiXia looked at the wet patch on the bedding and smiled helplessly.


    Actually, the excuse she gave could only fool a small child. It definitely wouldn''t trick an adult.


    Luckily the weather today was good. ZhiXia took the quilt outside and hung it on the clothesline, deliberately keeping the wet side facing inwards.


    Pei ChenYe stood watching nearby, looking very satisfied, before standing up with a grin and running off.


    Sister Zhang came out from inside and saw ZhiXia carrying the quilt. She hurriedly went over to take it from her. "I just dried this quilt a couple days ago. Old Pei has been concerned about you alling back."


    "I know. Thank you for going to the trouble, Sister Zhang," said ZhiXia, afraid she would overthink things. "I identally spilled water on the quilt when drinking waterst night. The sunshine today is pretty good so I thought I''d let it dry out."


    Sister Zhang had raised children herself, and instantly understood what had happened. She smiled and said, "Next time the quilt gets wet again, just call me to dry it. You can''t keep doing it yourself��with a belly that big, it would be bad if you threw out your back."


    "I understand, thank you Sister Zhang," ZhiXia smiled and epted the offer. Her eyes curved into crescents, making it hard not to feel happy just looking at her.


    She was in no hurry to go take care of Wanqing and ChenYe, because she saw that Pei JianGuo was already washing their hands for them.


    Pei JianGuo was actually very unhappy about it, but couldn''t ignore the two children when they both acted spoiled, calling him "Brother".


    The two children were the same��after washing hands they needed to change the basin water before they could wash their faces. ZhiXia didn''t know where they had picked up that annoying habit. It was a chore looking after them.


    After finishing with the two children, which had JianGuo rolling his eyes in irritation, he hurriedly ate breakfast then left for work.


    ZhiXia tied bibs on the two children, and apanied Old Pei to finish breakfast. The two children could both use spoons, so she didn''t need to specially feed them.


    ZhiXia told Old Pei about needing to go to the hospital. Knowing that someone from the An family would be apanying her, he said he would take good care of the two children and for her to go at ease.


    After breakfast ZhiXia waited. But the person who came was An Zhiren. As soon as he entered, he said, "Big brother is finally back for a trip and is apanying Eldest Sister to visit her maternal home today, so little sister, I''ll have to be the one to take you to the hospital."


    The brothers had originally nned to have Zhou Nane get her, but were also worried it would seem too deliberately arranged which might make ZhiXia ufortable.


    ZhiXia was about to give birth and would need people waiting on her, so Zhou Nan would have plenty of chances to impresster on. They were in no hurry this moment.


    "Then thank you, second brother," ZhiXia said without furtherment. After making some simple preparations, and reassuring the two children, she left the house with An Zhiren.


    The bicycle''s rear seat was padded with a cushion so it wasn''t ufortable to sit on at all. Second brother had put some real thought into this.


    She felt a little sorry for him. He was such a gentle and refined man. If not for being tricked by Wang Caixiang, he likely would have been someone who cherished his wife very much.


    ZhiXia hade to this area of Ping''an Road a few times before, but it was her first visit to the hospital.


    The hospital had three floors total and a considerable area, clearly arge hospital. Compared to the one in Lingjiang City it was much more prominent.


    In any era it''smon for people with connections to cut in line.


    An ZhiXian had already paved the way so ZhiXia was essentially walking right in through the back door. An Zhiren brought her straight inside.


    After an examination and checking the fetus position, currently there were no issues and her health was very good. But because multiple birthsmonly have premature deliveries, the doctor rmended shee back for a follow up in ten days, and be sure to increase nutrition.


    Also, when nearing delivery, if possible it would be best to stay in the hospital awaitingbor in order to maximize the safety of the mother.


    An Zhiren stood at ZhiXia''s side, his level of attentiveness even greater than her own. If not for the doctor saying there were currently no problems, he probably would have immediately booked a delivery room for her to stay in the hospital so he wouldn''t worry.


    After the check up, An Zhiren asked her, "You haven''t seen where your third brother works yet right? Do you want to go take a look?"


    "Sure, it can count as getting familiar with the ce."


    An ZhiXian worked in internal medicine. He could handle all kinds of big and small colds, wind-chill, sickness and disease. Compared to the others his work was busier, and his clinic was also easier to find, on the first floor.


    Through the window you could see he was currently diagnosing inside, mostly writing prescriptions and handing out medicine, some using pulse-reading and a stethoscope to determine the patient''s condition.


    "Third brother looks really busy. Let''s not disturb him, okay?" said ZhiXia.


    Just as she finished speaking, she saw An ZhiXian''s gaze sweep over in this direction, instantly revealing a look of pleasant surprise as he signaled them to wait a moment.


    An Zhiren nced at the watch on his wrist. "It''s not too far from noon yet. Or we can just wait for a bit, since he needs to eat anyway."


    ZhiXia naturally had no objections. An Zhiren went and fetched a stool for her to sit on.


    "Little sister, you wait here a moment. I''m going to get you some water to drink," said An Zhiren before walking away.


    The hospital was filled with the smell of disinfectant, not too unpleasant. ZhiXia sat in the seat by the window. Outside was an evergreen tree, with lush green foliage.


    There were footsteps behind her. ZhiXia assumed it was An Zhiren returning, but when she turned around she saw an unfamiliar man.


    The man had a gentle temperament. His ck pants and cotton overcoat couldn''t obscure his tall figure, and his leather shoes, though not new, shone from diligent polishing. He was also an exceptionally outstanding man.


    It was just that when he rested his gaze on ZhiXia, there was a somewhat dazed look in his eyes, faintly tinged with sadness.


    "Comrade, what''s the matter?" Though she felt no dislike, being stared at like that still made ZhiXia slightly ufortable.


    Seeing as the man did not seem unreasonable, yet his eyes remained fixed unblinkingly as if seeing an old acquaintance, which was rather shocking.

 Chapter 198: Could it be a case of mistaken identity

    <h4>Chapter 198</h4>


    "I..." Zhao Runze looked at the familiar face in front of him. Although he had never seen it in real life, he had recalled it countless times in his dreams.


    He had thought it was just his own fantasy, but today he actually saw the real person.


    Moreover, although the person in front of him was slightly different from the one in his dreams, her delicate and peerless beautiful features were no different at all.


    It was just that she didn''t have the perpetual frown on her face like in his dreams. Instead, she looked even more bright and charming.


    "Zhi Xia..." An Zhiren came back with water and saw a strange man standing in front of his younger sister. He hurriedly called out and jogged over.


    Zhao Runze also suddenly came back to his senses in panic, and after taking another look at Zhi Xia, he said "Sorry, wrong person." Then he turned around to leave.


    At the moment he turned around, he was fully exposed in front of An Zhiren.


    "Stop right there." An Zhiren reached out his hand to stop him. As soon as he opened his mouth, he started questioning, "It''s you again. Today, you have to give me an honest exnation. What are you always asking about my family? Don''t try to fool me, or I''ll send you to the police station."


    Zhao Runze looked at An Zhiren and slowly said, "Comrade, I really didn''t intend to do anything. I just..." He looked back at Zhi Xia in confusion and murmured, "I may have mistaken her for someone else."


    It was then that Zhi Xia stood up and walked over two steps, fully exposing her bulging belly.


    "You''re pregnant?" Zhao Runze had just beenpletely attracted by Zhi Xia''s appearance and hadn''t noticed her figure at all. At this moment, he suddenly realized that the woman in front of him was actually pregnant and about to give birth soon.


    "Yes." Zhi Xia smiled and moved closer to Zhao Runze. "Comrade, you were staring at me just now. Does the person I resemble happen to be someone you know?"


    There was a momentary trance on Zhao Runze''s face as he nodded, "Yes, very much alike. At first nce just now, I thought for a moment that I was looking at her, but your name is different from hers."


    "It really is my honor then." Zhi Xia could feel he didn''t have any malice and didn''t mind his rudeness either. "Comrade, the world is so big that simrities happen from time to time. It''s not strange for people to resemble each other. I hope you can find the person you are looking for soon."


    "Thank you." Zhao Runze said hurriedly, looking quite tangled, and struggled free from An Zhiren''s grip on his arm. He staggered away in haste.


    Only then did An Zhiren hand the water to Zhi Xia and said, "Little sister, this man is very strange. He came to our house to ask questions before..."


    An Zhiren didn''t know how to continue. ording to the man, the person he had asked about wasn''t Zhi Xia. But the woman he had described was clearly Zhi Xia.


    Yet Zhi Xia was curious about what he would say next. "Second brother, what was he asking about?"


    "He was asking about a woman named An Meixia." An Zhiren felt puzzled too. Although their family did have someone named An Meiyun before, there certainly wasn''t any An Meixia.


    However, Zhi Xia''s heart lurched upon hearing that.


    An Meixia - that was her name in her first life when no one had transmigrated yet.


    At the beginning, An Jingzhi had also given her that name, but she had rejected it in this life and used the name An Zhi Xia that her fourth brother had picked instead.


    Afterwards, An Jingzhi never mentioned those three words again. So apart from her fourth brother, none of her other three brothers in the An family knew about it.


    How did that man just now know about An Meixia?


    Could he be a transmigrator too?


    Zhi Xia suddenly felt very confused, unable to figure out what exactly was going on in this world. Why were there so many strange existences?


    Or perhaps it was rted to her, after all, transmigration was already considered strange in the eyes of normal people.


    Zhi Xia drank some water to forcibly suppress the uneasiness in her heart.


    An ZhiXian had also gotten off work and came over excitedly to find them. After eating lunch together, he still felt that Zhi Xia was a little absent-minded.


    "Little sister, what''s wrong with you?" An ZhiXian asked worriedly, "Are you too tired? You don''t seem to have much energy?"


    Zhi Xia nodded ordingly. "Yes, I''m a little tired. Second brother, third brother, I want to go home and rest for a while."


    "Then second brother should take you back quickly. If you feel ufortable, let us know right away. Don''t force yourself," said An ZhiXian. Then he looked at An Zhiren and urged, "Little sister is pregnant with multiples. Now that she is inte pregnancy with a heavy body, it''s normal for her to get tired easily. Whoever has time should help keep an eye on her and not let her get too exhausted."


    An Zhiren solemnly agreed and took Zhi Xia home.


    Zhi Xia really was a little tired, especially with something weighing down on her mind.


    After getting home, she dealt with her two children briefly and then went back to her room.


    An Zhiren coaxed the two little ones, "ChenYe, Wanqing, your mom needs plenty of rest now as her body gets tired easily. Let''s be considerate of her and give her time to rest. What do you think abouting to uncle''s house to y?"


    Pei ChenYe and Pei Wanqing looked at each other. "Is it because if we go to uncle''s house, mom can rest well and won''t be tired anymore?"


    "That''s right." An Zhiren coaxed them, "Look, if you are at home, mom has to take care of you - washing your face, brushing your teeth, dressing you up, ying with you... Of course she is willing to do all that, but we should also understand how difficult it is for mom now? She has three babies in her belly. Very tiring, isn''t it? We should be more considerate of her and let her rest more. Don''t you think I''m right?"


    Although it was that brother who had helped wash their faces and brush their teeth in the morning, Wanqing still remembered that she couldn''t dress herself. And ChenYe remembered wetting the bed.


    Mom was hanging the bedsheet up to dry with her big belly. She seemed to have used a lot of effort just to flip the sheet onto the clothesline.


    They suddenly felt so useless.


    Pei ChenYe held his sister''s hand. Although unhappy, he still said, "Then let''s go to uncle''s house."


    "ChenYe and Wanqing are so good." An Zhiren praised. "Then uncle will help pack your clothes. Stay at uncle''s house for a few days beforeing back, okay? Wen Qing brother misses you too and looks forward to ying with you."


    Listening to him coaxing the children, concern shed through Pei''s eyes.


    When he finally got a chance, he asked An Zhiren, "Zhiren, just give it to me straight. Is there something wrong with Zhi Xia''s health?"


    "No." An Zhiren sighed. "Grandpa Pei, I know what you''re worried about, but I won''t lie to the children. Zhi Xia bears a heavy burden now. The most important thing is for her to recuperate well. It just so happens that I, my dad and sister-inw are all on winter break now. Big brother is at home too. There will be people to look after the children even if theye over, so don''t worry."


    "As long as she''s fine, I won''t worry. You can bring the kids over first and send them back if they can''t adapt." Pei said, relieved.


    Zhi Xia knew An Zhiren was going to take the children to the An family to be cared for. Seeing both children agree, she also did not object and briskly packed their clothes.


    Back when she took care of the two children in the army, it was good to have Pei Jing''s help at night. He would take over whatever he could so she didn''t have to lift a finger.


    But now he was not here. There was no one who could help with the housework, not to mention taking care of two children who were unwilling to go out and make new friends in an unfamiliar ce. It definitely required adults to apany them in y every day, which was indeed very tiring.


    At this time, having someone to help take care of them was just what she needed.

 Chapter 199: Talk it out

    <h4>Chapter 199</h4>


    As Old Pei had thought, if they couldn''t stay, he would let theme back.


    After settling the two children, An ZhiXia waspletely free and shed into the space to find the customer service in the trading system.


    Wealthy Madam from Years Past: "What exactly is going on in this world? Why are there still other reincarnators?"


    [It should be awakened memories, not reincarnators.]


    Awakened memories, An ZhiXia had learned about it in her previous life.


    It was probably something about multidimensional space and the like. She also understood that there were many small worlds, big and small, in this world, after all, the trading system was an existence that could connect to other worlds.


    Multidimensional space refers to a spaceposed of multiple different dimensions, and in each space there is an identical self, but they have gone down different life paths because of the different choices they have made in life.


    And when time and space ovep, once a certain point is triggered, it is possible to have the memories of another self from another space-time.


    An ZhiXia blinked, for a moment lost in thought.


    If this spection held true, did it mean that her so-called rebirth was actually just recing another self from another space-time when time and space ovepped?


    An ZhiXia sought answers from the trading system, but this time, the trading system did not move at all.


    After calming herself down, An ZhiXia asked again, "Customer service, I won''t ask you about my own affairs, but can you tell me how many more people like Shen Hongmei and that man with awakened memories I saw this afternoon exist in the world I''m in now?"


    The trading system still did not move, and An ZhiXia had to give up.


    The package Pei Jing had sent back before the new year finally arrived.


    Life was still calm. The man she had seen at the hospital that day was like an illusion to her now.


    But An ZhiXia knew he really existed.


    He knew her, or rather, he was very familiar with An Meixia, who did not exist in this world, but An ZhiXia did not know him and had never seen him in her memories of her previous life either.


    So where was he from?


    From the world where Gao Meiyun and the others had not reincarnated, as Gao Meiyun said?


    On the second day of the lunar new year, An ZhiXia did not go back to her maternal home because her body was heavy with child.


    The two children were getting along well with Wen Qing, and though they had been reluctant to go at first, now they didn''t want toe back. An ZhiXia was also happy to have some peace and quiet.


    But at this moment, Wang Caixiang suddenly came to find her.


    It was the first time she had seen Wang Caixiang since she returned, and if Wang Caixiang hadn''t shown up today, An ZhiXia would have almost forgotten about this person.


    Compared to two years ago, Wang Caixiang seemed to be even worse off.


    Her hair was dry and disheveled, her face was so thin that her cheekbones protruded sharply, and her whole body exuded a sense of resentment and viciousness.


    Although she still pretended to be weak and pitiful, An ZhiXia could see through it.


    Wang Caixiang''s eyes were fixed on An ZhiXia''s belly, filled with undisguised envy.


    "You''re pregnant again, how nice." She thought, if she could have a child too, would he forgive her too, if only for the child''s sake?


    But he didn''t give her any chance at all, guarding against her very strictly.


    Especially after moving out to live separately, An Zhiren''s room was always locked, he always ate in the cafeteria, or went back to the An family to eat before returning, and he often didn''t evene back.


    She was often alone in that house with no money or food, because everyone thought she had embezzled from her husband''s family to supplement her maternal family, so no one paid her any heed. No one knew this was all deliberately done by An Zhiren.


    He deliberately ruined her reputation in front of others so that no one would believe her words, and didn''t care whether she had anything to eat even though he hadn''t given her a penny, and others thought it was because she was used to diverting things to supplement her maternal family that An Zhiren didn''t dare give her anything.


    She had never imagined that the man she admired would turn out to be like this.


    Gentle and graceful in front of others with the only w being that he had married a wife like her.


    Yet in front of her he turned into a man-eating demon that didn''t leave her a way out.


    Over the years, if she hadn''t found some handcraft work piecing paper boxes, she really would have starved to death.


    Sometimes Wang Caixiang didn''t know what she was still hoping for. If she had known that this was how things would turn out, she might as well have gone to the countryside.


    But havinge this far, it seemed that she could no longer retreat.


    An ZhiXia''s belly made Wang Caixiang look at her with jealous eyes. An ZhiXia instinctively protected her belly and said, "I can probably guess why you came looking for me, but I''ll make it very clear that I can''t help you with what you want. Wang Caixiang, I hope you understand that my rtionship with them is not as deep as you imagine, and I don''t want to meddle in other people''s lives either. I just want to live my own life well."


    Wang Caixiang didn''t seem too disappointed. She had already known the result before she came.


    She just wasn''t resigned to it.


    Her tears had dried up over the years, leaving her eyes emitting a lifeless, dark glow. "An ZhiXia, you''re so much like your second brother. I''ve just realized that in the whole An family, you two are the most alike. You both seem gentle and approachable on the outside, so why are your hearts made of iron and stone? I was in the wrong, but he''s already had his revenge. My whole Wang family has paid the price, isn''t that enough to make up for it? Haven''t I been living a fate worse than death these past two years to atone for it? Why is everyone so unwilling to give me a chance?"


    Back then, she had just been forced by desperation to grab at any straw she could to save her life. But she had paid the price for it already.


    Wang Caixiang felt that as long as he was just a little more magnanimous, the two of them could have lived well together. But why did he have to cling to the past and make them both wallow in misery?


    "It''s meaningless for you to say this to me. What kind of person I am has nothing to do with you. If you''re not resigned, you can go find my second brother." An ZhiXia thought for a moment, then added, "If it was because my looks and personality gave you the wrong impression that I was easy to approach, then I''m sorry, I can tell you now that I''m not kind-hearted and I don''t enjoy helping people either. I just want to live my life well. I do know a little about what happened between you and my second brother, but I can''t help you with it." And I''m not happy to help.


    "You...you guys are so ruthless. One is determined to drive me to my death while the others stand by and watch the show." Wang Caixiang stood in a daze for half a day. It seemed that with herst shred of hope gone, she finally left dejectedly.


    An ZhiXia still had a big belly and didn''t dare go with Wang Caixiang. So their conversation happened at the door.


    She had thought no one else was home, but unexpectedly, Pei Jianguo came out of the room and looked at her disapprovingly, "You people of the An family are really ruthless. I really wonder if a human life is worth so little in your eyes?"


    "If you feel sorry for her, it''s not toote to go after her now. Do you believe that if you just tell her you''re willing to marry her, she''ll agree to divorce my second brother right away?" What Wang Caixiang wanted was a good life. Who the man was didn''t matter.


    Pei Jianguo''s face instantly turned gloomy as he red fiercely at her before going back into the room and mming the door shut again.


    An ZhiXia actually understood that Pei Jianguo''s words were not out of pity for Wang Caixiang. Who he felt heartache for was the deceased Gao Meiyun.

 Chapter 200: Made a Decision

    <h4>Chapter 200</h4>


    ZhiXia suddenly felt a twitch in her abdomen and clutched her stomach with a pained expression.


    Sister Zhang came out from inside and hurried over when she saw this. "What''s wrong? Are you alright?"


    Hearing Sister Zhang''s question from inside, Pei JianGuo''s heart also tightened. He had always looked down on An ZhiXia for marrying his young uncle, but he hadn''t intended to do anything to a pregnant woman.


    It was just a few cross words, it shouldn''t have made her sick.


    "It''s nothing, the baby just kicked me." ZhiXia replied.


    Hearing ZhiXia''s answer, Pei JianGuo also rxed, the hand that was going to open the door dropped back down.


    "Let me help you inside to rest for a bit, you''re due soon, you have to be more careful these days." Sister Zhang also rxed, saying to her.


    ZhiXia smiled and said, "I can go back myself, Sister Zhang you go busy yourself, don''t mind me."


    An Zhiren followed his family back from Zhou Vige, and when he entered his residence, he saw Wang Caixiang sitting at the table.


    As usual, the table in front of her was piled high with half-finished cardboard boxes. But today, she just sat there in a daze, not busily working on her crafts.


    An Zhiren would not devote too much thought to her. Plus he had drank some wine in Zhou Vige today. Although not drunk, his head was still groggy.


    He went directly back to his room and locked the door.


    In his fuzzy state, he heard the sound of the door being pushed outside. He stared nkly at the tiles above his head andughed mockingly, still ignoring the sounds outside.


    When he woke up from his nap, the alcohol had worn off, though his head still ached a little.


    He opened the door and went out. Wang Caixiang was still sitting there. Perhaps hearing the noise, she looked over with red-rimmed eyes, very pitiful.


    Unfortunately, An Zhiren''s every ounce of sympathy had been drained by her scheming long ago.


    Feeling a bit hungry, he didn''t want to eat here. Instead, he got ready to take his bike out.


    "I''m going to find ZhiXia." Wang Caixiang''s hollow voice suddenly rang out.


    An Zhiren''s heart lurched and he let his bike fall to the ground. He turned back to Wang Caixiang, walking closer, "Wang Caixiang, I remember warning you not to get close to my family, didn''t I?"


    "So what if you did? I don''t even want my life anymore, why would I be afraid of your warning?" Wang Caixiang suddenly stood up and red at him, full of threat.


    Suddenly, she softened her attitude again, trying pitifully to grab his sleeve. "Zhiren, I already know I was wrong. But things are as they are, I just ask you to give me a way to live, okay?"


    An Zhiren dodged before she could touch him, speaking in disgust, "I think you''ve misunderstood one thing. I wanted to give you a way to live, you didn''t want it yourself. You were too greedy, insisting on clinging to me. Wang Caixiang, I''ll give you one more chance. Get a divorce now, it''ll be better for both of us."


    "Don''t even think about it, I will never divorce you even if I die." Wang Caixiang''s emotions suddenly became agitated. She had thought about leaving before, but given her current situation, leaving An Zhiren would not necessarily be much better off than now. "Zhiren, Teacher An, I really like you, admire you, that''s why I made mistakes. I''m not asking you to like me too, but please, can you give me just a little pity, give me a child. I promise you, just one child, as long as I have a child, you can divorce me, do whatever you want, even tell me to go die immediately, and I''d be willing. Okay?"


    An Zhiren disgustedly backed away two steps, chuckling twice. "Wang Caixiang, please look in the mirror, okay? Have some self-awareness, will you? Like me? You?"


    Seeing Wang Caixiang pounce at him, An Zhiren suddenly kicked out, kicking her hard in the chest.


    This was the first time he had hit her. An Zhiren had told himself more than once to restrain himself, not to ruin his personality and life for a Wang Caixiang.


    But the feeling of that kick, he couldn''t lie to himself. He hated her thoroughly, hating that he couldn''t make her die immediately.


    "An Zhiren, I''m telling you, don''t force me. A cornered rabbit will bite people. You''ve pushed me to desperation. Neither of us will have a good oue." Wang Caixiang held her chest tightly, feeling like her internal organs were churning.


    That kick of his was truly vicious without mercy.


    An Zhiren clenched his fists tightly, unable to restrain the malice buried deep in his heart any longer.


    The neighbours were rmed by the shrill cries. By the time people pulled An Zhiren away, Wang Caixiang had nearly lost half her life.


    An Zhiren was taken home by An JingZhi.


    Wang Caixiang was sent to the hospital by someone. An''s family did not send anyone.


    After checking her injuries, Wang Caixiang could not afford the medical expenses. She could only inform her uncle who worked at the hospital.


    She found An ZhiXian, but only got the response, "I don''t know her."


    The person who sent Wang Caixiang to the hospital even paid the medical expenses out of pocket. He could only curse under his breath in the end, thinking that he would have to get the money back from An Zhiren after his temper had subsided in a few days.


    Wang Caixiang returned home bruised and swollen, feeling no hope of being alive at all.


    Under the high hanging crescent moon, the night surged silently.


    No one noticed the figure with only a pair of eyes exposed appearing outside An Zhiren''s door. Eyeing Wang Caixiang enter, it then sneaked inside.


    These days, An Zhiren was staying at the An family home. An JingZhi also worried that he would impulsively get involved in a homicide case. These past few days, the whole family had been discussing how to get rid of this Wang Caixiang woman.


    But just when they were anxious, Wang Caixiang suddenly showed up at their door.


    "You really agree to the divorce?" An Zhiren didn''t meet her. It was Zhou Nan who came out.


    Wang Caixiang smiled bitterly. "Yes, you''ve achieved your goal. I''m afraid to die, so I agree to the divorce. But I have conditions too. I want 500 yuan, and the house we live in now. As long as you give those to me, I''ll agree to the divorce and never burden him again in the future."


    "You''ve thought it out perfectly, haven''t you. My second son, his wages over these years have all been extorted away by your family. His father and I have also subsidized quite a bit. The money he''s earned these past two years has all gone to repay debts to his father and I. We don''t just have him as a son. We can''t put all the money on him. If you''re willing to divorce, considering you''ve had it hard too, I''ll give you 100 yuan. That should be enough for you to find a good man and live well again. And the house was allocated by their school. When you divorce, it''ll have to be taken back. It''s impossible to give to you."


    This was what they had discussed beforehand. As long as Wang Caixiang agreed to the divorce, they wouldn''t quibble over other things anymore. Just give her 100 yuan as the price for their son''s freedom.


    After all, ording to their original idea, they''d rather fight it out with her than let her gain one bit.


    But a barefoot man fears not a shoed man. Wang Caixiang now was the barefoot one. They needn''t make their son keep herpany and exhaust his whole life.


    Plus with the domestic violence incident a few days ago, even Zhiren with such a mild temper had been provoked to violence. It was clear Wang Caixiang had pushed him to desperation.


    Zhou Nan truly couldn''t bear to see her son driven crazy by this woman. And Zhiren wasn''t young anymore either. It was time to find a proper woman, marry and have children.


    "No, the 500 yuan must be given. Otherwise let''s drag this out. After all I only have one life left." Wang Caixiang was very firm. But about the house, she also understood little. "Since the house is being taken back, then I don''t want it."

 Chapter 201: Windfall

    <h4>Chapter 201</h4>


    Actually, everyone knew that An JingZhi was the principal and whether or not the house would be taken back, it was just a matter of his word.


    However, Wang Caixiang now had other thoughts. 500 yuan was still not a small amount either. People could not be pushed too hard, otherwise really continuing the stalemate with An Zhiren, she was really afraid she would be beaten to death.


    The sinister look in An Zhiren''s eyes when he made a move that day, she saw clearly, it was clearly that he wanted her life.


    If it weren''t for the suddenness of this matter, Wang Caixiang wouldn''t have been so easily tempted either.


    Zhou Nan still wanted to negotiate further, but An Zhiren suddenly came out and said, "Mom, I agree to give him 500 yuan."


    Wang Caixiang was obviously still very afraid of him. From the moment he appeared, she had been sitting there with her head curled up, without moving.


    Zhou Nan was still unwilling. "Where do you get so much money? Back then, they ckmailed 500 yuan from your family. Now they still want 500 yuan. Do they really think you''re made of gold?"


    "Mom," An Zhiren called out, his voice full of pleading, "give it to her."


    It wasn''t that Zhou Nan couldn''t take out the 500 yuan, nor was she unwilling to spend 500 yuan for her son. She was purely unwilling to give it to this woman. Seeing An Zhiren like this, her heart ached instantly. After a moment of hesitation, she went back to the room to get the money.


    A full 500 yuan, brand new 50 pieces of unity, was a thick stack that looked quite spectacr.


    Wang Caixiang''s eyes were almost glued to it. This was not just 500 yuan, but also her future life.


    However, Zhou Nan did not hand over the money to her, but to An Zhiren, "500 yuan, not a penny less. First go get the divorce formalities done, then the money is yours."


    "No, you have to give the money first. What if you don''t give me the money after finishing the formalities first?" Wang Caixiang refused to agree.


    "Then what if I give you the money first, but you go back on your word and refuse to go through the formalities?" Zhou Nan retorted, "Don''t fucking tell me you guys can''t do that. Your whole family are ckmailers. What else can''t you do?"


    Ever since she married into the city, Zhou Nan was afraid of what others might say about her being an uncouth country bumpkin, so she was always very careful about what she said and did, for fear of seeming too crude and causing idle gossip.


    But at this moment, she was so angry that curses she hadn''t uttered in decades burst out.


    An Zhiren closed his eyes for a moment, took out half of the money and handed it to Wang Caixiang, "If you are willing, I will give you half first and the other half after the formalities arepleted. If you are unwilling, the two of us will continue to destroy each other. You drag me down and I drag you down. Let''s go to hell together!"


    His sinister tone sent a chill through Wang Caixiang in an instant.


    "Okay," Wang Caixiang took the money and agreed to go back home to get registered residence and apply for a certificate from the neighborhood office.


    Her registered residence was still at the Wang family, although the marriage certificate had been registered, An ZhiXian was forced to do so reluctantly at the time, so he didn''t help her transfer her registered residence.


    It was just right now. She only needed to go to the neighborhood office to apply for a certificate toplete the divorce formalities without having to go through the hassle of transferring her registered residence away.


    After Wang Caixiang left, Zhou Nan said angrily in disappointment: "Asking for 500 yuan as soon as she opens her mouth, she''s not afraid her appetite is too big and she''ll eat herself to death. Son, you''re the same, our family is not short of this 500 yuan, but giving it to someone like her is better to take it out to feed the dogs."


    "Mom, giving her the money is only temporary. She won''t be able to hold onto it for long," An Zhiren said coldly with augh.


    As soon as Zhou Nan heard this, she knew he had ns afterward, so she simply didn''t ask anymore.


    Now that An Zhiren was getting a divorce, a big weight had been lifted off his heart and mind. She had to take this opportunity to go out for a stroll and see if she could find a nice girl to bring back as daughter-inw.


    With a Wang Caixiang causing trouble here for a few years, her second son''s wife definitely couldn''t becking. She had to find a good one, otherwise people wouldugh at them.


    An Zhiren got married without telling Zhi Xia and would divorce without telling her either.


    It wasn''t because he didn''t care about Zhi Xia, it was because Wang Caixiang wasn''t worth it.


    Handing the remaining 250 yuan to Wang Caixiang, An Zhiren held the green notebook in his hand, his body and mind more rxed than they had ever been.


    Wang Caixiang was also very happy, of course, still somewhat reluctant.


    Undoubtedly, although she had been full of schemes at first, she had also truly liked An Zhiren at the time.


    He was outstanding and excellent, but unfortunately he didn''t love her. Even with this money, she knew she would never be able to find such an outstanding man again in the future.


    If it wasn''t for An Zhiren''s violent madness that day that frightened Wang Caixiang, plus someone inciting her, she wouldn''t have been willing to get a divorce, even if it was just a marriage in name.


    Wang Caixiang left with hope and anxiety about the future, not knowing if she was too excited, she bumped into someone head-on.


    "Sorry, I was running too fast. Comrade, I didn''t hurt you, did I?" the apologizing man was thin and tall, wearing a padded jacket, with half his face wrapped in a scarf and a hat on, his long hair covering his eyes so they couldn''t be seen clearly.


    "It''s fine, it''s fine," Wang Caixiang said, then walked away.


    The man smiled and his pace became casual.


    Around the corner, the tall thin man handed the money wrapped again and again to An Zhiren, "Brother Two, it''s all here. Take a look to see if any is missing."


    There were two stacks in total because it had been given in two payments, one stack of 250 yuan.


    After the divorce, Wang Caixiang had no ce to live. Although the Wang family house was empty, it had been confiscated by the neighborhood office.


    An Zhiren''s house had not been taken back yet, but Wang Caixiang was afraid he would suddenly return, so she didn''t dare leave the money at home.


    This was her lifeline from now on. She had to cherish it. Before finding a ce to live, she could only put all the money in her bag.


    Wang Caixiang thought it would be safest to keep it on her body, but she was too arrogant.


    An Zhiren only took a nce, gave a mockingugh, threw away the rags wrapped again and again, reached inside and took out 10 notes and handed them to the man, "No mistake. Thanks Little Hu. Brother Two won''t treat you to a meal today. This is for you to buy liquor."


    "This...this is too much. Brother Two, if you really want to thank me, giving me one is enough." Little Hu said apprehensively.


    But An Zhiren stuffed the money into his arms, "I''m giving it to you so just take it. Don''t be polite with me, otherwise how can I ask you for help next time?"


    Hearing this, Little Hu could only smile and ept it. "Then thank you, Brother Two." 100 yuan was half a year''s wages for him. This really was an unexpected windfall.


    Little Hu''s ancestors knew some of these kinds of skills, to put it bluntly they were petty thieves.


    His family suffered during the great famine. They were raised by nibbling scraps given by the neighbors left and right. asionally they would snatch food from dogs and cats. They barely survived by asionally stealing things to eat.


    Later he met An ZhiAng. As the fourth son he was famously loyal. So he brought Hu along to join Liu Jun''s group to mix around, at least giving him a way out.


    Now Liu Jun''s people were either sent down or found work relying on family connections. Little Hu had originally wanted to join the army with An ZhiAng, but his physique didn''t meet the criteria.


    After all, it was someone he had brought up himself. An ZhiAng was afraid Hu would go astray again if he left, so he begged An JingZhi to arrange a temporary worker''s job at the factory for Little Hu, at least to feed him.


    An JingZhi had always looked down on his gang of fox friends and dog friends, so he was unwilling to help. So it was An Zhiren who got the job for Little Hu and that was how he got to know him.


    An ZhiAng owed Little Hu. Since the An family asked, he was naturally willing to help.


    As for the 100 yuan, it was originally going to be used to send off Wang Caixiang. Since she didn''t want it, it should be given to someone in need to build good rtions. Maybe it woulde in handy someday.


    Looking at things now, when An Zhiren arranged the job for Little Hu back then, even he didn''t expect there would be today.

 Chapter 202: The Racket

    <h4>Chapter 202</h4>


    The dragon and phoenix twins had also be familiar with everyone, running around all day. An ZhiXia was also much more rxed.


    However, Pei JianGuo had not been in a good mood ever since that time.


    The two were living under the same roof, yet were clearly at odds. Old Pei was not blind and could obviously see it.


    Pei JianGuo stood before Old Pei apprehensively, looking at his serious expression and wondering if he had made another mistake recently.


    "JianGuo..."


    As soon as Old Pei opened his mouth, he quickly responded, "Grandpa, did you call me for something?"


    In this family, the person Pei JianGuo feared the most was his own father. Fortunately, Pei Yong rarely came home, only managing to return a few times a year.


    The next was his grandfather. The old man doted on him, but he was also strict.


    Although he didn''t beat him much, from his own father and second uncle above, to his younger uncle below, they had all been beaten by Old Pei before.


    It was also thanks to the generation between them. Old Pei was impatient to tangled with his eldest daughter-inw. Otherwise, with his poor qualities and all the silly mistakes he had made since childhood, who knows how many times he would have been beaten already.


    Seeing Pei JianGuo''s nervous state, Old Pei beckoned for him to sit down, trying to keep his voice gentle as he asked, "JianGuo, don''t be nervous. Grandpa just wants to ask if you and your young auntie have been fighting thesest few days?"


    "No, no." Of course, Pei JianGuo didn''t dare admit it. Before his young uncle had prepared to get married, Old Pei had gathered the whole family for a meeting. He said that after An ZhiXia married into their family, she would be younger in age but senior in generational status. He told the family they should teach her more and defer to her, especially the younger generation. They must respect her.


    In in words, he wanted everyone to respect her like an elder, but also cherish her like a junior.


    In fact, the old man didn''t expect them to do much. He just wanted them to have this attitude so that everyone would know An ZhiXia had people backing her up. That way, if there were conflicts, they would weigh things carefully in their hearts.


    Seeing that Pei JianGuo did not admit it, Old Pei did not force the issue either. He just lectured him with more words of wisdom, still emphasizing that An ZhiXia was pregnant and it was not easy, while Pei Jing was not there. Their Pei family should take good care of her no matter what.


    Pei JianGuo listened very carefully and took these words to heart.


    It was just a pity that he had always had a bad memory. If not for his many faults, he would not have beenbeled as unambitious and stupid.


    After Old Pei finished speaking, he waved his hand for Pei JianGuo to leave.


    Sister Zhang had timed it well. She came in to help prepare his medicine and bring him water to take it.


    These pills were brought back by An ZhiXia this time when she returned home. She said she met a decent old Chinese medicine practitioner and had that person make this health-preserving prescription.


    Old Pei had tried it and knew it had benefits, so he didn''t ask much more.


    He was no longer young and seldom managed things now. As for taking care of him, as long as it was given, he would ept it. If it was good he would use it, and if not he still appreciated the thought.


    After Old Pei took the medicine, he said to Sister Zhang, "Little Zhang, pay more attention to the situation at home recently. Why do I feel that JianGuo and my third daughter-inw seem to be fighting? It''s like they''re deliberately ignoring each other."


    He was consciously paying attention himself, but was afraid An ZhiXia would think he was meddling too much.


    Besides, she was his daughter-inw, so it was still not appropriate.


    Seeing Old Pei''s hesitation, Sister Zhang also didn''t know if she should speak up or not.


    Old Pei could tell with one look and said, "If there''s anything, just say it. Don''t mind anything else."


    Only then did Sister Zhang open her mouth and talk about what happened when Wang Caixiang came to find them that day.


    When Old Pei heard that An ZhiXia''s stomach had hurt a bit, he couldn''t help but worry tremendously. Fortunately, that was something from several days ago already, and her stomach still showed no signs up to now, indicating there was no impact.


    Sunshine shone in through the window, casting countless rays of light and shadows. An ZhiXia had just returned from a video call with Pei Jing and the kids. The children had already been taken out to y by the olddy.


    An ZhiXia seemed to be in a very good mood because Pei Jing was going to set off to return home tomorrow. Barring any idents, he would arrive in three days.


    In the evening, An ZhiXia was taking a walk by the door when she happened to run into a furious Wang Yue.


    "Sister-inw." Out of courtesy, An ZhiXia smiled and greeted her.


    But Wang Yuepletely ignored her, casting her eyes and giving a cold snort before striding into the house.


    Seeing her unreasonable attitude, An ZhiXia wrinkled her brow but chose not to bother with her further.


    She didn''t expect that not long after, Wang Yue woulde out again, looking even angrier than when she had gone in.


    This time, An ZhiXia didn''t say anything more either, unwilling to warm someone''s cold butt that ignored her.


    She didn''t expect that Wang Yue would stop excitedly in front of her and start cursing at her directly, "An ZhiXia, you''re a troublemaker. Ever since you married into this family, we''ve never had peace and quiet. First you stirred up separating the family''s property, and now you can''t even tolerate Pei JianGuo staying here with his grandfather. You said we''re separating households, so shouldn''t wepletely separate cleanly? Why should we all move out while you get to keep the space here for yourself to live in? Is this Old Pei''s idea of fairness?"


    At first, An ZhiXia was confused, but hearing this, her expression sank. "Sister-inw, isn''t this going too far? Although I''m living here now aftering back, I''ve never meddled in the issue with father. As for not tolerating Pei JianGuo living here, I have no idea what you''re talking about. On the contrary, you''re the one who hasn''t even figured out what''s going on before randomlyining and overstepping."


    An ZhiXia ced both hands on her belly. It was a subconscious gesture to protect herself.


    "You don''t need to pretend to be confused with me. Before you married in, our Pei family had been living together harmoniously for so many years. But right after you came in, we separated households. You can''t seriously believe it had nothing to do with you, can you?" Wang Yue was still angry and spoke without restraint. "After we separated, I only let Pei JianGuo live here because I was afraid Old Pei wouldn''t have anyone to look after him. Things were fine before you came back, but right after you returned, Old Pei wanted to drive Pei JianGuo away. Does anything this coincidental really happen in the world?"


    An ZhiXia didn''t know where she had gotten this conclusion from, but she really was unaware of this matter, including Old Pei wanting Pei JianGuo to move out. If Wang Yue hadn''t mentioned it, she wouldn''t have known.


    Sister Zhou had just finished taking care of the old master and old madam. She was about to return to her own home when she happened to see the confrontation between Wang Yue and An ZhiXia as soon as she stepped out the door.


    She barely hesitated before immediately turning around and heading back inside.


    "Old master, old madam, something bad is happening. It looks like An ZhiXia is arguing with her sister-inw at the door. Pleasee out and take a look!"


    The old madam had already washed up and was in the middle of her skincare routine when she heard the yell. Without a shred of hesitation, she got up and walked outside.


    The old master usually slept slightlyter. He was still in the living room reading a newspaper when the old madam went out. By the time she came out, he was already in the yard.


    Wang Yue was still arguing with An ZhiXia at the door. They heard the old master yell, "Girl from the Zheng family, what are you doing? If there''s some barrier you two can''t get past, is there a need to stand here debating right and wrong with a pregnant woman? Come,e, tell me too and let this old man listen."


    While Wang Yue dared to quarrel with An ZhiXia, she didn''t dare make trouble in front of the old master.


    Moreover, by now the old madam had alsoe out and was ring at her, waiting to see what she would say.


    Wang Yue mumbled for half a day but didn''t manage to get any words out.


    Yet the old master insisted on getting to the bottom of this matter clearly, otherwise if she tried to pick faults again next time, wouldn''t it still be his granddaughter who suffered?


    The old master called out softly and the Pei family''s security guard ran inside to notify Old Pei.

 Chapter 203: Make a Decision

    <h4>Chapter 203</h4>


    The Pei family''s dirtyundry should not be aired in public. No matter how ugly the in-fighting, outsiders should not be allowed tough at them.


    In the Pei family''s living room, the Old Madam and Old Pei sat upright, while a pregnant An ZhiXia was also helped into a chair.


    Facing the elders of both families, Wang Yue still felt somewhat afraid, standing to one side with her head lowered.


    At this time, Pei JianGuo also hurried over, but things had already escted to this point that they had to get to the bottom of this.


    Old Pei sighed deeply, feeling extremely worried as he asked Wang Yue, "Eldest daughter-inw, did I not make myself clear enough just now? What other trouble did you cause outside?"


    Wang Yue secretly rolled her eyes. Although afraid in her heart, she still stubbornly said, "I''m just not convinced. Why is it that after dividing up the family, both our households moved out, and now even JianGuo has been chased out by you elders, yet the third son''s wife gets to continue living here? Dad, I''m not purposely causing trouble, but this is simply unfair."


    Wang Yue had always been smug about Pei JianGuo being the family''s only son. She also often used this to suppress the second household. How could she have expected that as soon as An ZhiXia married into the family, she gave birth to twins, stealing her limelight. And now, she''s going to have triplets in one go, making Wang Yue even more aggrieved.


    But given her age, wanting topete with An ZhiXia in childbearing was impossible. Still, she was unwilling to give up the family''s assets and had barely managed to persuade Old Pei to let JianGuo stay here after deciding to divide up the family. Her goal was to maintain control over this house so that JianGuo could directly inherit it in the future.


    But she didn''t expect that An ZhiXia would be pregnant with triplets and need to give birth in Jin City. After returning, she continued living here.


    Originally, Wang Yue could have endured it, but after Old Pei chased JianGuo out, she developed a sense of crisis.


    Why did they both have to move out while a heavily pregnant An ZhiXia got to live here with her children? If this continued long term, given An ZhiXia''s existing ties with the family, plus the increased exposure to Old Pei, wouldn''t all the benefits go to the third household in the future?


    There was no way Wang Yue would be willing to ept that.


    Old Pei never imagined that due to such a minor issue, Wang Yue would actuallye to resent An ZhiXia and confront her despite her pregnancy.


    "Uncle An happens to be here today. Let mey all my cards on the table. Eldest daughter-inw, I know what you''re thinking. JianGuo is my eldest grandson and I certainly won''t shortchange him. But as long as I''m still alive, this is my house and I get to decide who lives here and who doesn''t. I know you may feel I''m showing favoritism, but don''t forget, you''ve been living in this house with JianGuo and the twins for so many years. Have I ever shortchanged you all? Even if ZhiXia stays here until the kids grow up, that''s only natural. After all, I helped raise both your families'' children. It wouldn''t be right if, when ites to the third son, I suddenly want nothing to do with them. Think it over, isn''t this reasonable?" Old Pei broke the matter down for her. If she still didn''t get it after this, there was nothing more he could do.


    He believed he had done nothing wrong. Even if there was some bias in the past, it was definitely in favor of the eldest household. Pei JianGuo had never suffered any loss. But just because Old Pei was grateful to Wang Yue, it didn''t mean he should let her control the entire Pei family.


    He owed a debt to his eldest son, Wang Yue''s own husband. His second and third sons didn''t owe her anything. There was no reason for him to constantly make concessions to her.


    "No matter how much you try to gloss things over, you can''t conceal your favoritism, Dad. If you weren''t biased, why would you suddenly chase JianGuo away when he was living here perfectly fine? Isn''t it because now that you have other grandsons, you don''t cherish JianGuo as much anymore!" In the past, Old Pei doted on JianGuo the most. Yet now he was talking about what was reasonable and what wasn''t to skirt the issue of his bias.


    Obviously now that he had more grandsons, he didn''t cherish the only one like before.


    "If you insist on seeing things that way, there''s nothing I can do. I''ll say it again - as long as I''m still breathing, this is my house. I have the right to decide who gets to live here and who doesn''t." Old Pei had never been the sort to sumb to threats. Fortunately, his temper had mellowed quite a bit with age now. If this had happened in the past, he would''ve flipped the table and called Pei Yong back long ago.


    "No matter how you try to justify it, it all boils down to favoritism in the end. JianGuo was living here perfectly fine until you suddenly chased him out because you favored others. We''re not going to keep worrying about your health anymore since we have our own ce to live. If I wasn''t concerned about leaving you here alone, why would I insist on having JianGuo stay?" Wang Yue retorted angrily before turning to call Pei JianGuo, "JianGuo, what are you standing there for? Don''t you see we''re being a nuisance here? Hurry up and leave to make room for certain people!"


    Her insinuations instantly stunned Old Pei, making him feel lightheaded and about to copse.


    "Old Pei..."


    "Grandpa..."


    This took everyone by surprise. Pei JianGuo was also shocked as he quickly went over to support Old Pei.


    Wang Yue also didn''t expect that Old Pei couldn''t take the provocation. Her heart instantly chilled.


    If the old man really took a turn for the worse because of her, even the greatest gratitude wouldn''t save her.


    Old Pei was almost seventy. His health was already poor due to old age, and he had many old injuries. The past two years had been somewhat bearable only because of the health supplements An ZhiXia had given him.


    Taking advantage of everyone''s distraction, An ZhiXia quickly poured a ss of water with snow crystal fruit juice added into it.


    "I''m fine..." After drinking some, Old Pei felt a bit more spirited. He insisted, "Although the second household isn''t here today, the first and third households are, with Uncle An here as witness. I know what this fuss is all about, so let me make this clear - as long as I''m alive, anyone who wants to can live here. But after I die, I''m giving the house back to the government. No one should have any ideas about it."


    "How can that be?" Wang Yue had always coveted the house. Although she had her own house, it wasn''t the same as this one. This was a house with front and back courtyards, old but very spacious with numerous rooms.


    Given JianGuo''s current situation, hoping for his own share of the house in the future seemed unlikely. If he could live here after getting married, his descendants wouldn''tck housing for generations.


    "There''s nothing uneptable about it. Everyone has their own fate. I can''t control your lives forever either. In the future, whoever is better off can have a better life, and if you end up sleeping on the streets, you can''t me me for it." Old Pei said.


    Based on Old Pei''s previous position, he would have been allocated housing too, but it definitely wouldn''t have been as nice as this ce.


    It happened to be when the An family was going through tough times, so Old Pei''s grandfather-inw thought that rather than giving up the house to benefit some stranger, he might as well let Old Pei have it since their families were close. But by taking this house, Old Pei was considered a homeowner, so he forfeited the allocation quota, which went to someone else instead. So it was perfectly reasonable for him to im this house as his own.


    He actually hadn''t considered surrendering it after death at first, since he had children and grandchildren who could inherit something from him. But since the house had damaged family rtionships, he might as well not leave it to anyone, for peace of mind.


    An ZhiXia had never entertained any thoughts about staking ims on someone else''s belongings, let alone inheritance while the owner was still alive. Wouldn''t that just sadden the elderly person?


    "Dad can decide what to do with his own house." An ZhiXia stated her stand.


    "I''ll listen to Grandpa." Pei JianGuo also stated.


    He hadn''t actually coveted the house. It was his mother who had.


    When he moved out, he was just stating the facts. Inevitably, he didin some about An ZhiXia.


    Yet he didn''t expect things to escte to this extent, directly involving the house.


    It made him feel utterly awkward, as if he was the one eyeing something that didn''t belong to him. His grandfather had three sons. Even if the family assets were divided up in the future, it would surely be split evenly between them. Yet his mother always believed that as the eldest grandson, he should inherit everything.


    Old Pei was quite satisfied with Pei JianGuo''s attitude. Fortunately the boy still knew his ce and wasn''t too greedy.


    Financial status might fail someone, but apromised conscience surely would!

 Chapter 204: Remember Your Legacy While You鈥檙e Alive.

    <h4>Chapter 204</h4>


    Wang Yue caused a scene but did not get any benefit from it. Instead, she lost face in front of her mother-inw and failed in her attempt.


    When she went out, one could see the anger on her face.


    Pei JianGuo also felt very awkward. He did not know whether to leave or stay, especially when faced with Xia''s contemptuous look, Old Pei''s sadness, and Grandpa An and Grandma An''s disappointed expressions, which made him very ufortable.


    "JianGuo, you should go back too," today''s incident hit Old Pei hard and he could not suppress the disappointment in his heart.


    This child has indeed been spoiled. He is neither smart nor responsible.


    But things havee to this point. His personality was already set in his twenties. It would not be easy to change him.


    Pei JianGuo''s face turned even paler. After this incident, he could imagine how his family would see him in the future, and how others would think of him.


    He did not even have the courage to salvage the situation.


    When he returned home, he could still hear his motherining about how Old Pei no longer cared for Pei JianGuo now that he had other grandchildren and was biased towards Pei Jing''s son.


    Pei JianGuo did not say a word. He just closed the door a little harder, making a bang sound that startled both Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang who was listening to the radio.


    After recovering from the shock, Wang Yue got even angrier. She banged on Pei JianGuo''s door and started shouting, "You deadbeat, who are you trying to scare? I''m your mother. What''s wrong with me nagging at you for a bit? You even dare to show me attitude..."


    Suddenly, Pei JianGuo felt a surge of anger rushing to his head. He flung open the door, his face red and neck thick as he roared: "Exactly because you are my mother, can''t you think for me before doing anything? Causing such a scene at grandfather''s ce without considering the severity, how will the family look at me in the future? Grandfather is still alive. Do I seem so eager for his inheritance? Besides, there are still dad and second and third uncle. Even if grandfather is gone, his belongings won''t possibly go to just our family. Grandfather won''t exclude second and third uncle and give everything to my dad."


    Although Pei JianGuo was spoiled, he had a clear view on this matter.


    Or perhaps, having lived a carefree life with food and shelter all provided for, he did not have too strong a desire for money.


    "So now you''re ming me? I''m not doing this for your own good?" Wang Yue got so angry her chest heaved rapidly. "Pei JianGuo, why am I fighting for this? Isn''t it because you are useless? Your dad wanders around freely by himself, only thinking about that vixen in his heart. He does not care about family matters, then he will me me for spoiling you all too much. Our family relies on your second aunt''s strong maternal family. She hasn''t been able to give birth to a son all these years. Your second uncle does not even dare to say anything to her. Your young uncle married the daughter-inw I picked for you despite the generation gap between them. Ugh, so shameless. I am a lone woman. My entire maternal family died trying to save your ungrateful dad. All these years I had no one to rely on. If I don''t fight for our rights, who will take me seriously? Your sister has been home for so long, your grandfather does not want to use his connections, your dad is also useless. The neighborhoodmittee is asking people to be sent down to the countryside..."


    There is a saying, every family has its own troubles that only they know.


    Wang Yue did not know what exactly she was fighting for either. It seemed like she needed that drive, so as to tell herself she could still carry on.


    Back then, her marrying Pei Yong could be considered reciprocating his life-saving grace. Pei Yong used to have a nurse girlfriend and they were going to get married after the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan.


    But things often turn out unexpected. Pei Yong was rescued after getting injured, while Wang''s entire family died trying to protect this soldier, with only Wang Yue who happened to be out surviving the disaster.


    Pei Yong originally wanted to take Wang Yue as a sister. The Pei family knew to be grateful, and Old Pei stated that even his own son would have to stand behind Wang Yue if she agreed.


    But Wang Yue at that time was unwilling. She insisted on marrying Pei Yong. With her entire family''s wretched ending right before her eyes, Pei Yong also could not go against his conscience to reject her.


    Pei Yong''s girlfriend also understood his difficult position and Wang Yue''s perspective, reaching an amicable breakup with Pei Yong then.


    After Pei Yong married Wang Yue, he arranged for her to be a trainee nurse in his troop. Pei Yong''s ex-girlfriend was grateful for Wang''s family''s sacrifice and took good care of Wang Yue, personally guiding her along.


    But Wang Yue was afraid their old feelings would resurface, forcing the other party to apply for transfer. They never met again after that and it was unknown whether she was dead or alive after the victory of the War of Resistance.


    Pei Yong was never an indecisive person. Since he decided to marry Wang Yue, he did not think of letting her down. But one incident led to another, and even the greatest kindness could turn cold over time.


    Over twenty to thirty years, the only thing sustaining their marriage was that not yet worn out life-saving gratitude.


    In the Pei family, Old Pei and Grandfather were talking in the living room, while Xia took Grandmother to her own room.


    Afraid that her pregnant granddaughter might feel uneasy, as soon as Grandmother entered the room, sheforted Xia, "Xia my dear, the rtionship between mother-inw and daughter-inw has always been a difficult issue since ancient times. A married woman is different from when she was in her maternal family. But don''t feel wronged in your heart. No matter what, you still have grandpa and grandma backing you up. We won''t let anyone bully you. Jing is capable and promising. Your future days will surely not becking. Even if Old Peiter decides to donate this house, grandma will not let you be homeless."


    Grandmother did not say she would leave her house to Xia, after all there were still several grandsons in the family. Even if the grandsons did not mind, they would still need to marry, and not handling mary matters clearly would inevitably leave hidden troubles, causing the siblings to drift further apart in the future.


    In short, Grandmother would not allow her only granddaughter to suffer unfair treatment.


    "Rest assured grandma, I don''t feel wronged. I''m not a greedy person either. Jing is very good to me. We have a few lovely children now. I''m very content. And I believe we will have our own home, not relying on the elder''s inheritance to live," a smile lit up in Xia''s eyes. Not only was she confident in herself, she also had great faith in Jing.


    A man like him would shine brightly no matter where he was.


    "Since you think this way, grandma feels relieved too," back in the days when Grandmother was in charge, the manors and shops under hermand were endless, even those Xia looked down on now. As for this house, she looked down on it even more. So she turned the conversation to matters about the children instead. "You are probably due in just a few days seeing how big your belly has grown. I think we shouldn''t dy anymore. Your big brother is leaving tomorrow morning. Let''s take advantage of your second brother''s free time and wait at the hospital to be assured."


    "Alright, let''s listen to grandma on this," Xia thought that going to the hospital would be good too, sparing others from enviously eyeing her staying here.


    As for staying for confinement after giving birth, by then Jing would be home too, so she naturally would not need to handle those matters.


    The closer it got to the due date, the harder it became to endure each day.


    Carrying triplets in her belly felt like they were wrestling inside, at times kicking up a huge lump that distorted the shape of her belly. And they tended to move around most actively at night.


    When she was expecting the dragon and phoenix twins, Jing would attend to her. But now he still had not returned, so there was no one who could share her suffering. She could only rely on herself to endure it all.


    The quiet night was filled with scudding dark clouds that obscured even the moon. The air lingered with a stifling aura.


    The south was rainy season. Having just passed the new year, there was already a downpour. It just was not as heavy as this one. As soon as the raindrops fell, one could sense its magnificent force.


    Fortunately, the rain stopped by daybreak.


    An Zhiren drove Xia to the hospital.

 Chapter 205: Memory Awakens

    <h4>Chapter 205</h4>


    The hospital had already finished the paperwork, so Xia would be able to go straight to the delivery room when she arrived.


    An Zhiren was waiting for them in the ward to take Xia there and would have to go back to help carry things over. "Mom said she''lle at noon to bring food. If I''mte getting here, just wait for me."


    After An Zhiren left, An Zhiren said quietly, "Actually, the food here at the hospital is perfectly fine, and you can use the stove too. I feel like Mom is going overboard - by the time she makes the food at home and brings it over, it''ll be cold."


    As the one being doted on, Xia really couldn''tin no matter whether it was good or bad, she could only smile as An Zhiren grumbled.


    After spending some time with Xia in the ward, a nurse called for An Zhiren from outside, "Dr. An, the clinic is swamped and everyone''s looking for you."


    "Coming right now," An Zhiren responded. He turned to Xia, "Little sister, you just rest here for now. I have to go take care of some things. I''lle check on you when I have time."


    Xia hadn''t given birth yet. With people around all over the ce outside the ward, she wouldn''t be too worried on her own.


    She smiled and said, "Then go take care of things quickly. I''ll be fine by myself, don''t worry about me."


    An Zhiren nodded and left.


    Xia stayed in the ward for a bit. With nothing to do, she went out for a walk to familiarize herself with the area. After all, she would likely be here for at least a few days.


    It had just finished raining. There was a beautiful rainbow in the sky and the air still held some dampness. The leaves rustled in the gentle breeze. Ripples formed in the small pond in the yard.


    The ground of the yard was paved with stone bricks. Xia was wearing leather shoes but wasn''t worried the wet ground would be slippery after the rain.


    She walked to the edge of the pond and enjoyed the faint coolness from the breeze on her cheeks, a peaceful smile on her face.


    Behind her, she heard footsteps approaching. Xia turned around to see someone walking towards her.


    It was him, the man who had awakened memories.


    "What a coincidence seeing you again,rade. It reminds me of when we first met in my awakened memories - after a rain, she went to the school to bring an umbre for Teacher Liu, but it stopped raining by the time she arrived."


    When she had turned around, her smile was dazzling in the sunlight. That instant when their eyes met, she had entered his sight and his heart.


    But that wasn''t how it was supposed to be in his memories.


    From the moment those memories awakened, he had been waiting to encounter her again, thinking that if they were fated in this life, he would protect her from worry for a lifetime.


    But he waited for a long time and she never appeared.


    Zhao Runze checked into her circumstances and learned that there was no An Meixia in the An family this life. Instead, there was an additional An ZhiXia, while An MeiYun who had ruined his and Meixia''s lives in his memories had died early on.


    An ZhiXia still married into the Pei family, but her husband had changed from Pei JianGuo to Pei Jing, the outstanding young uncle of the Pei family by all ounts.


    Zhao Runze thought this An ZhiXia shouldn''t be his Meixia, but when he saw the identical face and gentle temperament at theirst meeting, his excitement was tinged with an empty feeling in his heart.


    The girl he loved in his memories existed but had married someone else before even meeting him.


    This made Zhao Runze doubt whether the extra memories in his mind were merely wishful thinking he had imagined.


    "Coincidence or intention,rade? I''m a pregnant woman about to give birth. You should keep your distance," Xia said guardedly upon this second meeting with the man. She didn''t dislike him at first sight of their initial encounter, but learning he was a memory awakener made her think further.


    He recognized her so must know the first life''s An Meixia. She had no memories of An Meixia herself.


    He had called her Meixia right away, so the one he knew was likely the first life''s An Meixia and not her.


    She was An ZhiXia and only An ZhiXia.


    No matter what history this person had with An Meixia, it was unrted to her.


    She only wanted to live her own good life in this lifetime and feel content with a perfect ending.


    Zhao Runze froze, seemingly not expecting her to say this.


    But soon after, he epted it calmly.


    It was good she was cautious. Meixia had been too innocent and ended up ruined for life.


    "Whether you believe me or notrade, I harbor no ill intentions toward you. I just..." Zhao Runze lowered his eyes, his smile slightly bitter. "Never mind. It''s better that you aren''t her. I hope...you will be happy."


    If she wasn''t Meixia, there would not be the same tragedy.


    As long as she was happy, his heart would be at peace.


    He hadn''t been able to protect the girl from his memories, so letting someone else protect this girl was fine too.


    He only hoped Pei Jing would not hurt her like Pei JianGuo did and would truly cherish and care for her instead.


    The awakened memories Zhao Runze had were only about his history with An Meixia and unclear about other people, only bits and pieces appearing alongside his interactions with An Meixia.


    It was a pity they had started beautifully but ended tragically.


    Xia didn''t know what he was thinking but his sorrowful eyes made her heart heavy. Without An Meixia''s memories herself, she couldn''t empathize with his emotions yet couldn''tugh in the face of such a distressed person either.


    Just as she was thinking to take her leave, she heard An Zhiren call her name behind her. She turned to see her second brother gazing at them not far away, his expression slightly dark.


    "Second brother," Xia called and walked towards him.


    But An Zhiren approached Zhao Runze instead. "What are you doing here again? What''s your deal, always pestering my sister? Can''t you see how pregnant she is?"


    A gracefuldy naturally catches the eye of gentlemen. But pursuing another''s wife clearly indicated some issues.


    Moreover, her extremelyrge belly was visible to all. If not for the man''s refined appearance and temperament, he would suspect some lecherous scoundrel.


    Seeing it was An Zhiren, Zhao Runze instinctively stepped back.


    "My apologies. I merely happened to run into therade standing here while at the hospital for my illness and had no intention of pestering her."


    Xia had never told him her surname was An so he must recognize her from those awakened memories.


    But she still didn''t know what history he had with An Meixia.


    "Forget it, second brother. He didn''t really bother me much. I''m tired, let''s go back," Xia lightly yawned into her hand.


    She wasn''t lying about being truly tired now.


    An Zhiren immediately stopped minding Zhao Runze and hurried to support Xia. "Then let''s go."


    As they walked away, he looked back to re warningly at Zhao Runze.


    Zhao Runze sighed and left the hospital carrying his medication.


    Back in the ward, An Zhiren had wanted to ask Xia what happened but seeing her fall asleep upon touching the bed, he didn''t have the heart to wake her.


    Forget it. School break still had several days left. He could just stay here guarding until she gave birth and left the hospital to prevent anyone from getting a chance to harm her.


    When Zhao Runze returned to his dorm, he took out a book from his cab with a page folded inside. It was filled with writings about his life.


    Zhao Runze, elementary school teacher. An Meixia''s beloved in heart. Passed away from illness in 77. Obscure life...


    The few short sentences also contained introductions to his family background.


    He had picked up this page after a girl casually discarded it years ago. Seeing his name on it led him to retrieve the page. He was even more shocked that the contents truly matched his actual circumstances, except he definitely didn''t know any An Meixia and the idea he would die from illness in 77 was nonsense.


    Because when he picked up that page, it was only the winter of 70.


    He ced the page under his pillow. The next day, many memories of An Meixia filled his mind. They were clearly unfamiliar memories yet the actions of Zhao Runze in those memories were indeed things he was capable of himself.


    He even went to the hospital for an examination and his health was perfectly normal without any issues whatsoever. So he could only treat it as a dream.


    As for the girl in the dream, he really liked her and even hoped to meet her. He kept waiting beyond their destined meeting time in his memories but she never appeared. Only then did he look into her circumstances.


    It wasn''t untilst winter that he remembered this incident again, went to the hospital for another checkup, and found out that something had grown inside his body. He also met the girl from his dreams again, but she already had a big belly and was married!


    Yet since seeing her, those memories that he''d thought were only dreams somehow became more vivid, and he felt even more empathy.

 Chapter 206: A Dirty Mind

    <h4>Chapter 206</h4>


    Why would it be sopletely different?


    No matter how Zhao Runze thought about it, he couldn''t figure it out. Could there be others who have also awakened their memories, which is why it has affected the normal trajectory of their lives?


    Zhao Runze also thought back to that girl from 4 years ago. As she threw away that piece of paper, there seemed to be a thick notebook in her hand.


    He had never thought carefully about these things before, and more often he would fantasize about when the girl from his memories walked towards him, how he would guide her to avoid those painful experiences.


    He didn''t even dare go find her, afraid that he might inadvertently change something that would affect the development between them.


    But things did not go as smoothly as he had waited for, which made Zhao Runze very sad.


    ...


    The weather these past few days has been sunny one moment and cloudy the next, with rain that would start pouring without warning.


    Zhou Nan had just left with the two children when the door was pushed open again.


    "Second brother, I already said you don''t need to apany me..." Knowingly turned her head in exasperation, but upon seeing the man enter, her tone changedplicatedly, "What are you doing here?"


    "I...I just wanted toe..." To see her. But in what capacity could he say those words?


    Zhao Runze switched topics dejectedly, "Sorry, Comrade An, although I truly did not intend to pester you, after thinking it over, I still feel that I should give you something."


    As he spoke, he handed over the envelope in his hand.


    Knowingly hesitated for a long time before taking the envelope from his outstretched hand, full of doubts, "What is it?"


    "You can open it and see." Zhao Runze''s eyes revealed longing.


    Knowingly opened the envelope. Inside was a piece of paper, not stationery, but seemingly ripped from a notebook, with very heavy crease marks and a strong worn look, yet you could also see that it had been carefully protected.


    She looked at the handwriting on the envelope, and her heart tightened.


    She recognized An Meiyun''s handwriting with one nce, but the contents of the letter...were things that happened in the first lifetime?


    An Meixia''s beloved was Zhao Runze?


    She didn''t know any of this. In all those years following An Meiyun, she had never heard her mention someone like this before.


    Wasn''t An Meixia married to Pei Jianguo in her first life? How did this Zhao Runze pop up?


    Knowingly smiled calmly on the surface despite her doubts, "Who are Zhao Runze and An Meixia? And what do they have to do with me? Why are you giving this to me?"


    "Zhao Runze is..." me.


    He hadn''t gotten the words out when someone entered from the doorway.


    "Knowingly..." Pei Jing''s tired voice was tinged with joy, but unexpectedly, the first thing that met his eye wasn''t the wife he had been missing, but a tall man.


    When the man turned around, his expression was panicked, his eye sockets sunken, looking flustered and haggard.


    "You''re back..." In contrast, Knowingly was delighted, stepping forward lively to take his hand.


    She actually really wanted to hug him, if not for her bulging belly getting in the way.


    The gentleness in Pei Jing''s brows and eyes waspletely tender. His thumb rubbed the back of her hand for a moment, signaling they weren''t alone.


    "This is...?" Pei Jing looked at Zhao Runze in puzzlement as he asked.


    "Comrade, hello, I am..." His gaze subconsciously darted to Knowingly, but saw that she wasn''t paying attention at all here, her eyespletely on the man before her who seemed imposing. "I''m Zhao Runze, a teacher at Hongxing Elementary School."


    The pain in the depths of his eyes could not be suppressed, along with...unwillingness!


    Seeing that Zhao Runze was just standing there not moving, Knowingly made introductions, "Comrade Zhao, this is...the father of my five children."


    Regardless of how things were in their previous life, she would soon be the mother of five children in this life, living a happy and smooth life, and had no desire for any changes.


    Zhao Runze could hear the implied meaning in her words.


    So she wasn''t truly unable to guess anything, was she?


    Or perhaps those memories weren''t only his alone, it was just that in the end he had disappointed her, so she chose a different path in this life.


    Otherwise, how else to exin that those things which should have followed the original trajectory had changed slightly?


    "Congrattions to you both." Zhao Runze gazed at Knowingly''s belly, obviously preupied. "I still have things to do, so I''ll take my leave first."


    His footsteps staggered as he beat a hasty retreat, clearly fleeing in distress.


    After he went out the door, Pei Jing went to close it, staring pensively at Zhao Runze''s retreating back for a while.


    When he turned back, he was still his taciturn self, "Who was that person? Someone you just met?"


    Pei Jing''s own state wasn''t actually too great either. He had just gotten off the train, dropped off his luggage at home, hurriedly asked for this address, and rushed over without even showering or shaving his stubble.


    But he had tremendous momentum, not appearing weak despite his dishevelment, instead exuding an oppressive aura that made people unconsciously overlook his messy state.


    "Can''t say we know each other. Just ran into him twice at the hospital. He''s probably a patient." In Knowingly''s hand was still that piece of paper which she had already stored away into her space.


    Pei Jing didn''t ask further. He walked over and picked her up to sit her on the bed. She nestled into his embrace, rough palms stroking her belly through her clothes. "Is baby being good in your tummy? Were Chengye and Wanqing troublesome? And you, how have you been these days?"


    Knowingly circled her arms around his neck, her ten fingers sping together tightly. "The rest has been fine, it''s just that they start brawling in my belly every night as soon as itste, keeping me from sleeping well. Chengye and Wanqing haven''t been home much,ing and going between both sides since Dad and grandparents have been fighting over who gets to bring them out." Knowingly''s tone paused for a bit, her eyes bright with a trace of a smile, "I just missed you."


    With beautyid out before him, Pei Jing''s broad palm braced her slender neck as he kissed her. The nimble kiss was tentative at first, gentle caresses grinding and nibbling until she showed slight arousal before his tongue plunged in relentlessly tangling.


    Her breath was gradually taken away. Knowingly gave a soft moan as her fair fingers likewise probed into his heavy clothes.


    As Pei Jing''s reason gradually returned, he was reluctant to part from her, nestling his chin on her shoulder as he slowly calmed himself.


    When An Zhiren came to the hospital room, the door was shut.


    He pushed at it but it didn''t open.


    "Knowingly...Knowingly..." He called out twice but no one inside responded. He muttered under his breath puzzedly, "What''s going on? They even locked it?"


    Not realizing that Knowingly had truly been frightened badly.


    She was currently still held in Pei Jing''s embrace, the two''s posture intimate. Lips parted slightly, eyes and brows still carrying traces of passion, even her earlobes flushed red.


    Pei Jing on the other hand looked normal on the surface, if one could ignore that aggressive weapon below.


    "Hold on..." Pei Jing''s tone after arousal was slightly hoarse. Impatient, he yelled at the doorway, "Just wait..."


    Bowing his head back down, he was once again tender and loving, calmly setting Knowingly back down and tidying both their clothes.


    Fortunately his cotton overcoat was long enough that when let down, it couldpletely obscure anything unusual below.


    Knowingly also patted her cheeks, doing her utmost to make herself look more normal.


    An Zhiren was already over 20 himself, naturally not some ignorant youngster who knew nothing.


    When the door opened and he first walked in, the first thing he saw was his little sister''s face, still flushed despite her attempts to stay calm.


    Like a rainbow after rain, dazzling and colorful.


    In contrast, the old man Pei Jing looked normal, nonchntly turning to pour water. "These days, thanks for taking care of Knowingly. I''ll be with her from now on so you can rx a bit more."


    "No trouble at all. As her older brother, isn''t taking care of my little sister only natural?" An Zhiren gave a refinedugh. As he drew near Pei Jing however, his face changed. "I''m saying, do you even act human? When her belly''s this big you still have the nerve to make a move? Aren''t you afraid something will happen?"


    Pei Jing shot him an icy re. "Put away your filthy thoughts."


    In the past there was a difference in seniority between them that he could pull, but things were different now. With his mother-inw as Knowingly''s birth mother, he truly wasn''t afraid of Pei Jing anymore.


    Notcking in nerve, his tone even carried some teasing. "Yes, yes, I''m the filthy one while you''re clearly not when you already have a whole pile of kids."

 Chapter 207: This round, Won.

    <h4>Chapter 207</h4>


    Pei Jing warned him with a look, his voice not loud, but just enough for Zhi Xia to hear, "If you''re really so bored, you can go pick up the two kids. I just got home and haven''t had a chance to see the two kids yet."


    An Zhiren still wanted to retort, when he heard his sister''s voiceing over, "That''s right, big brother, please bring Chenye and Wanqing over. These two kids missed him as soon as they got back. Wanqing cried for her dad the other night after she just got back. Who knows how happy they''ll be when they see you''re back."


    Zhi Xia also missed when their family was together. It''s just that he wasn''t by her side and she was pregnant, so she really didn''t have the energy to take care of the kids either, so she could only have them stay at their grandmother''s.


    His little sister had spoken, so An Zhiren could only resign himself and say, "Fine, I''ll go pick them up."


    After An Zhiren left, Zhi Xia sized up Pei Jing carefully, "Looking at you like this, it really does seem like you just got home and came straight here. You haven''t even shaved yet. Why don''t you go freshen up in the space? The two kids will think you''re messy when they see you like thister."


    What she really wanted to say was, no wonder it felt a little prickly when they kissed earlier. It was just that the feeling of their reunion was too sweet for her to bear to let go.


    "Alright," Pei Jing rubbed his chin. He didn''t actually reject the idea. He really did look disheveled after just getting off the train and going without grooming himself for days. Although he had been restraining himself from smoking, his clothes still inevitably smelled of other people''s cigarette smoke.


    Pei Jing suddenly regretted it a bit that he had gone to hug her so recklessly earlier.


    He closed the door again before turning around to take Zhi Xia''s hand. In the blink of an eye, the two of them were in the space.


    Pei Jing had gotten quite skilled at this. He took off his cotton coat and threw it to the side, grabbed a towel, and went into the bathroom.


    It only urred to him then to ask her, "Why don''t we bathe together? Otherwise after you give birth, you won''t be able to bathe or wash your hair for quite a while."


    He saw that Zhi Xia''s hair was also a bit oily. It definitely hadn''t been washed for at least two to three days.


    When she was pregnant with the twins, they hadn''t been separated at all. Pei Jing had been by her side attending to her the whole time. This time with him not around, she could only make do.


    In fact, Zhi Xia wasn''t that dirty. She just didn''t dare wash her hair, since she was staying in the hospital and her brother came to visit her several times a day. It would be hard to exin if she suddenly washed her hair.


    Now that Pei Jing invited her, she became a little tempted.


    After they washed up, Pei Jing used a hair dryer to dry her long hair, then threw his clothes into the washing machine.


    "You changed all your clothes. What will you say when big brotheres back?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    "It''s not that cold out. I''ll just wear a sweaterter. He won''t suspect anything," Pei Jing opened the closet to select a pair of pants simr to what he was just wearing. The sweater was hand knitted by Zhi Xia and very thick. He also grabbed a scarf for himself.


    Seeing that he was dressed warmly enough, Zhi Xia didn''t say anything more.


    "Then you get dressed first. There''s food prepared in the kitchen. Go eat something first," Zhi Xia said as she exited the bedroom.


    Pei Jing got dressed and as he lifted his head, he saw the note on the table. He casually picked it up to take a look.


    Zhi Xia called him from outside, so he put the note back down before going out.


    On the dining table there was meat, vegetables, and big shrimp, quite sumptuous.


    Pei Jingdled soup for Zhi Xia, "Just focus on taking care of yourself and eat."


    But Zhi Xia didn''t pick up her chopsticks, "Mom wille over to bring dinner tonight. If I eat now, I won''t be able to eatter."


    Of course the food from Zhi Xia''s space would be more abundant, the ingredients better, more nourishing.


    Pei Jing said, "Eat this stuff for now. I''ll take care of your mom''s dinner when she brings it overter."


    Only then did Zhi Xia nod.


    With her sudden pregnancy of triplets, her body needed a lot of nutrients, resulting in a big appetite, but she only ate until about seventy percent full before stopping.


    After they finished eating, Pei Jing cleaned up the bowls and chopsticks. There was no time to hang up theundry from the washing machine before Zhi Xia sensed movement from outside and pulled Pei Jing''s hand out of the space.


    There was a knock at the door and the children''s eager voices came through, "Mommy, mommy, open the door quick. Your precious babies are here..."


    Zhi Xia couldn''t resist a faintugh at their teasing, "Aren''t you going to hurry up and open the door for your precious babies?"


    Pei Jingughed helplessly and took big strides to open the door.


    As soon as he opened the door, the two little ones charged in, each grabbing onto one of his legs.


    "Uncle didn''t lie. Daddy, I missed you so much..." Pei Wanqing whined, reaching up her hands wanting to be held. Pei Chenye clearly more mature, pped down her hands, "You''re so big already but still want hugs. Aren''t you embarrassed?"


    "Hmph, mean big brother!"


    Wanqing pouted her lips, and the next second Pei Jing picked her up.


    "Daddy was very tired originally, but as soon as I saw our two precious babies, suddenly I''m not tired anymore," He hadn''t shown any favoritism between them, luckily his arm strength was great enough to hold one child in each arm without leaning one way or the other.


    At first he thought boys ought to be brought up tougher and girls more delicately. But Zhi Xia disagreed. She believed the two children should be treated equally.


    And he also couldn''t stand it each time he only held his daughter and saw the obvious disappointment in his son''s eyes.


    Luckily Chenye was steadier, disying quite the big brotherly style at a young age. For now he would be more lenient emotionally with them. He could cultivate Chenye properlyter on after he grew older. It wouldn''t be toote.


    An Zhiren of course noticed something abnormal with Zhi Xia, "Did Zhi Xia wash her hair?"


    The hospital water was inconvenient to use, and this room didn''t have its own bathroom.


    "I took her out to wash it," Pei Jing casually exined, "I was on the train for a few days and smelled like smoke all over. It would make the kids sick."


    There were bathhouses outside the hospital. An Zhiren guessed they had gone to wash there. But talking with Pei Jing, he still couldn''t help but tease him, "The two of you even locked the door. If others didn''t know they would think you were up to no good inside."


    Afraid that he would ask more questions and annoy him, Pei Jing dismissively shooed him, "The kids are here already too. Since you have no business, hurry up and leave. I can take care of things on this end."


    "You haven''t finished using the donkey yet you''re killing it. Isn''t that going too far?" An Zhiren asked him, "I was the one who took care of your kids for a few days you know."


    Pei Jing''s eyes twitched as he smiled at him, "You weren''t doing me any favor taking care of my kids, you were taking care of your own nephew and niece."


    Go ahead, don''t even let the kids call you uncle.


    This rendered An Zhiren unable to retort, defeat in battle banter wise.


    Holding back his exasperation as he left the room, he let out a faint chuckle.


    Such a leisurely spar of words was really rare these past few years.


    The two years of his calcted marriage life had changed him entirely. Others might not see through his disguise, but he himself understood very clearly that he had ultimately be different from the past.


    He truly liked these two kids, as lively and cute as a ray of sunshine into his gloomy heart, adding another dash of light.


    Perhaps he could consider his mother''s suggestion to go on some arranged marriage meetings. If he happened to meet a suitable match he could get married and have kids, and get his life back on the right path.


    As An Zhiren was contemting, a familiar figure passed by in front of him.


    She didn''t notice him, but still brought up his feeling of humiliation again.


    Just a sh and she had disappeared from sight, only then did An Zhiren take a deep breath and continue on his way.

 Chapter 208: More Than a Mere Purpose

    <h4>Chapter 208</h4>


    The two children yed here until Zhou Nan came to deliver the meal and took them away in the afternoon.


    With Pei Jing here to take care of her, Zhou Nan did not need to stay overnight like the previous two days. He left soon after delivering the meal, and took the two children with him.


    Anyway, there was still a thermal container at home. He coulde back to deliver breakfast tomorrow morning and take today''s thermal container away at the same time.


    During the meal, Pei Jing took good care of her and attended to her every need.


    He put the washed thermal container on the table and turned around to pull An Meixia to sit on the bed, then said, "I saw the note on the table in your space."


    He didn''t know who Zhao Runze and An Meixia were, but he saw the extra man in An Meixia''s ward when he came in, as well as the slip of paper that shed by in her hand.


    An Meixia was stunned for a moment, then said, "You saw it, so what? There''s nothing to hide about it. It was just a note given to me by the man in the ward this afternoon with some inexplicable stuff written on it. I don''t know what he meant, so I just casually put it into my space."


    Pei Jing''s fingers stroked her bangs. She didn''t know if he believed what she said, but he didn''t ask further.


    The touch on her forehead felt itchy. An Meixia slightly raised her eyes and could just see his seemingly calm face.


    He didn''t say anything, but it made An Meixia very uneasy inside.


    That note contained not only the entanglement between An Meixia and Zhao Runze, but also Pei Jianguo.


    If Pei Jing knew about the things in that life between his uncle and nephew, could he still choose to be with her without any misgivings?


    An Meixia didn''t have An Meixia''s memories, but she knew some things about An Meixia and Pei Jianguo from what An Meiyun said. But she didn''t want Pei Jing to know.


    Her life now was very peaceful and satisfying. She wanted to live well with Pei Jing and did not want to get involved in those unnecessary storms.


    But Zhao Runze regaining his memories made her feel flustered inside.


    She really hoped he would never show up again and not disrupt her life.


    An Meixia reached out to caress his cheek. Her big belly prevented her from standing on tiptoe, so she hooked his neck with her hand instead.


    Her pink lips met his like a feather, gentle and sweet.


    Pei Jing was very helpless, but he responded with equal gentleness, stroking her hair.


    He knew this was her guilty behavior. Whenever she wanted to please him, she would kiss him uneasily and crave his response and intimacy.


    When her breathing became slightly rushed, he let go. "An Meixia, I''m not ming you. We''re husband and wife. We should be more frank with each other. I saw your stuff and should have told you. Or if you have any needs or difficulties, you can tell me." Rather than try to please him, although Pei Jing didn''t say thest part.


    He could probably guess that her life experiences had made her prone to feeling insecure deep down.


    Pei Jing had always known this, so he tried his best to give her enough sense of security so that she could feel at ease.


    But An Meixia was struck by the word "frank."


    She had told him her biggest secret and entrusted her safety to his hands wholeheartedly.


    But there were some things that she really couldn''t be frank about, such as Pei Jianguo and An Meixia, plus Zhao Runze now, and her rebirth.


    In this life, she only wanted to live well, but it seemed that there were always some odd things hovering around her.


    "What I said was all true. Don''t you feel it''s weird? The content on that note was like a made-up story, and it was written to several yearster." An Meixia said.


    "Hmm." Pei Jing didn''t press her further, only asked her, "Do you want to go out for a walk? I''ll apany you."


    Appropriate exercise before delivery is good for childbirth. They both knew this since it was their third child.


    But An Meixia shook her head. "I don''t want to walk today. I want to hug you to sleep."


    Pei Jing smiled indulgently. "Alright. I''ll go close the door."


    She had been tired recently. Fulfilling such a small wish was also what he wanted, so he would naturally satisfy her.


    The hospital bed was not big, and with An Meixia''s big belly, she definitely wouldn''t sleepfortably. So the two of them went to rest in the space.


    "Ah Jing, I really, really like you so much. Let''s just live happily like this forever, okay?" She was truly very easily satisfied. As long as he kept treating her well like this, she would also give the other party equal respect and love.


    "Silly girl, of course we''ll live happily forever. Don''t think too much. Hurry up and sleep." Pei Jing ced his broad palm on An Meixia''s belly. As if sensing it, the baby in her belly was exceptionally peaceful all night without the usual feeling of fighting in the belly.


    An Meixia only opened her eyes when she heard the knock outside. They were still in the space without getting up.


    To be precise, Pei Jing had woken up long ago but didn''t bear to wake her up, so he apanied her to sleep.


    "What''s wrong?" Pei Jing looked at her profile and thought she had a nightmare.


    Unexpectedly, An Meixia said, "Someone is knocking on the door. I don''t know what time it is now. Let''s hurry out."


    "Don''t rush." Pei Jing nimbly put on his clothes, then came over to help An Meixia.


    After they came out of the space, he hurried to open the door.


    An ZhiXian was holding a thermal container and walked in, looking at them suspiciously, "What were you doing that took so long to open the door?"


    "Too tired, didn''t get up." Pei Jing casually responded. "Why are you the one who came?"


    "Mom went to the supply and marketing cooperative early in the morning to line up for ribs. Second brother is looking after your kids. Those twozy kids refused to get up because it was cold, so I could only bring your breakfast over." An ZhiXian handed over the thermal container and said, "I still have to go to work. I''lle back to collect the thermal container after work."


    After An ZhiXian left, Pei Jing went to wash up for An Meixia before they ate breakfast.


    The breakfast consisted of steamed buns and rice porridge. One look and you could tell it was the handiwork of Zhou Nan who got up early to make fresh, soft and white steamed buns with shredded bamboo shoots filling that looked very appetizing.


    The two finished the breakfast by dividing up the portions. Not long after, Old Pei, Grandpa and Grandma also came over.


    Grandma brought some snacks that she taught Zhou Nan''s wife to make.


    Although she wasn''t handy with tasks herself, she could still direct with her mouth. More than half of Zhou Nan''s wife''s still decent cooking skills was from Grandma''s teaching, coupled with her own talent.


    After the three elders stayed for a while and chatted with An Meixia, they left.


    Pei Jing looked at her belly and asked, "Did they say when it might give birth? " He thought that since she was already hospitalized, it should be soon.


    Not that he was impatient, but his leave period was limited.


    "It should be in the next two days, I think. The doctor has checked the fetal position, but can''t confirm the exact time yet." An Meixia asked him, "Do you have something to do? You don''t need to apany me the whole time. The hospital staff open the door, and Third Brother also works at the hospital here, so just call for someone when there''s movement. If you''re busy, go do your stuff."


    "No big deal either. I''ll just go out for a bit ande back." Pei Jing was gratified by her thoughtfulness, yet also felt sorry that she was so sensible. "Is there anything you want to eat? I''ll bring some back for you when I return."


    "I want to eat..." An Meixia looked deliberately at him, "you."


    Pei Jing''s eyes instantly darkened. He gave her a soothing kiss. "Good girl, don''t tease me. I don''t have as much self-control as you think."


    "Alright, I won''t tease you anymore. Hurry up and go, juste back soon." An Meixia felt dull in an instant.


    The bicycle Pei Jing rode yesterday was still parked at the storage area. He took his bike and rode towards his intended destination.


    On the way, he met An JingZhi.


    After exchanging greetings, Pei Jing asked, "Dad, do you know someone named An Meixia?"


    The simrity between the names An Meiyun and An Meixia, could there be some sort of connection?


    An JingZhi was stunned for a moment and saidplicatedly, "Where did you hear this name from?"


    So there really was such a person. Pei Jing was rather relieved. "Just overheard it by chance. She also has the An surname, so it felt like quite a coincidence."


    "Actually there''s not much to it. When An Meixia was first found, her original name was no longer fitting for her to continue using. So I gave her this name, but she herself didn''t like it, preferring the one given by Fourth Brother instead, so she was called An Meixia."


    The expression on Pei Jing''s face instantly becameplicated. "Other than you, Fourth Brother and An Meixia, does anyone else know about this name?"


    An JingZhi did not know about the note and Zhao Runze. Pei Jing''s question was nothing that could not be talked about either. "Why bring this up? I just happened to mention it in passing at the time. Nothing came of itter. You also know about Meiyun''s situation. Jingxia is also quite averse to this name, so I never brought it up again."


    ...


    Zhao Runze handing that note to Jingxia was not entirely without purpose either.


    If Jingxia really was An Meixia, would she also awaken those memories like he did, and the key to awakening those memories was that note.


    But things often do not develop as one imagines, perhaps the protagonist recorded on that note was not Jingxia after all, so it had no effect on her or Pei Jing.

 Chapter 209: Soon to be Born

    <h4>Chapter 209</h4>


    Zhao Runze also did not expect to see Pei Jing at his own doorstep.


    At this moment, his mood wasplicated, both excited and apprehensive.


    Enduring his temper, he walked to Pei Jing and asked, "Comrade, are you here looking for me?"


    With An Jingzhi still waiting for her at the hospital, Pei Jing also had no time to beat around the bush with him. He said directly, "Hello Teacher Zhao, I''d like to have a chat with you, may I?"


    "Of course, let''s find a quiet ce to talk. There''s a bench by the river not far ahead, shall we go there?" Zhao Runze didn''t live alone, his parents were at home, and his brothers who were married also lived in the cramped house. Clearly it was not a ce for conversation.


    Pei Jing pushed his bike along, following Zhao Runze to the riverside, where the two of them sat down on the bench.


    Compared to Zhao Runze''s awkward gestures and restless hands and feet, Pei Jing, who had seen storms, still did not show any ripples on his face.


    "You are Comrade Pei, right? I''ve heard of you. You came to see me today because..." In fact, he had found out everything he could about An Meixia, so hemented the tricks fate had yed.


    She married Pei Jing when Pei Jing did not have those awakened memories.


    "I just wanted to ask Teacher Zhao, what was the meaning of that note you gave my wife at the hospital yesterday?" Pei Jing said bluntly.


    This was something Zhao Runze did not anticipate - that An Jingzhi would show Pei Jing that note.


    That was his secret that he had kept for many years. If it weren''t for An Meixia, he would never have taken it out. And now it was exposed to someone else''s eyes.


    "It was meaningless, just some random gibberish. Comrade Pei, don''t overthink it." Even though those memories were awakened, Zhao Runze was still just an ordinary elementary school teacher, thinking a bit more than others at best. But his own life experience wasid bare - trying to fool an old hand like Pei Jing was almost impossible.


    Pei Jing spoke unhurriedly but with oppressive force. "Teacher Zhao Runze and Miss An Meixia. Teacher Zhao sure knows how to make up stories. Don''t I have sufficient reason to suspect that you harbor improper intentions towards my wife, so you fabricated such a story, and now you still want to try to get close to her?"


    "I don''t have any intentions, and your wife is not An Meixia." He wanted to say that he didn''t make up stories, but he couldn''t deny that he did want to get close to An Jingzhi.


    The story of Zhao Runze and An Meixia was too tragic. He had been waiting for four years, and had long merged those memories into his own heart.


    He had fantasized countless times that if they were reunited, they would definitely have a wonderful time together. But suddenly, just when he was fully prepared, the woman of his dreams had be another man''s wife, and had given birth to several children too.


    Who could understand such a blow?


    "Comrade Pei, I don''t know how to exin this to you, but I will never harm Mei..." He paused, having to ept that his Meixia no longer belonged to him, but had be someone else''s An Jingzhi. "I will not harm Comrade Jingzhi. No one hopes more than I do that she can live happily."


    Pei Jing''s emotions did not seem to change at all, if one could ignore his constantly rubbing thumb.


    He looked tense and unsmiling. Even in such circumstances, he remained steady andposed.


    Zhao Runze couldn''t help thinking that if his memory self could have acted like Pei Jing, perhaps things would not have ended so bleakly between him and Meixia.


    "Let''s change the subject." Some things didn''t need to be said too bluntly. If it were before, Pei Jing might not have thought in certain directions, but since there had already been a Shen Hongmei with some special abilities, what else was impossible in this world?


    Pei Jing''s gaze sharpened slightly as he looked up at Zhao Runze coldly and aloofly, with distant dispassion in his brows. "Teacher Zhao, may I ask where that note came from?" Although his tone was questioning, it also carried an irresistible force.


    This man was too powerful. Although the note did not spell everything out, when Zhao Runze awoke those memories, he had heard Pei Jing''s name from An Meixia''s mouth.


    On the day An Meixia and Pei Jianguo were schemed against, Pei Jing was tricked as well. The An family originally wanted Pei Jing to marry An Meiyun, but Pei Jing presented evidence of An Meiyun''s past humiliation in rural areas to the An family. This caused a rift between the Pei and An families.


    Later An Meiyun married another man. It was because Pei Jing couldn''t bear being separated from An Meixia due to her scheming that on An Meiyun''s wedding day, he gave a letter to the groom, leading to her divorce on the very day of marriage.


    By then, he had decided to ept An Meixia and the child in her womb, but was still forced to leave her.


    Perhaps the him at that time was still not firm enough.


    So heaven punished him by afflicting him with a terminal illness, leaving him with lifelong regrets for his remaining years.


    Pei Jing had no mind to look at Zhao Runze''s pained expression. He spoke to wake Zhao Runze up, "Teacher Zhao, is my question difficult to answer?"


    Only then did Zhao Runze suddenlye to his senses, but he was still contemting whether he should say anything.


    He wondered if Pei Jing knew about those things, would he struggle even more than he himself did back then over marrying the niece of his past life? How would Pei Jing choose in this matter?


    If Pei Jing was also not so firm, would that prove that his choice to stand by those memories was also just human nature after all?


    Or if Pei Jing could not ept it, would he himself have another chance with Meixia in this life?


    At this moment, Zhao Runze did not consider the issue of children, perhaps subconsciously ignoring the fact Jingzhi said she had 5 children. He ced this matter on the choice he made back when she was pregnant in his memories. Back then, he had hesitated.


    This time, he didn''t want to have any more regrets.


    He just didn''t know if Heaven would give him another chance to choose again.


    ...


    When Pei Jing returned to the hospital, An Jingzhi was lying in bed. She did not look very well, her brows tightly knitted together, enduring something.


    He quickly walked over to see her hand trembling over her belly, a thinyer of sweat also emerging on her face.


    "Jingzhi, what''s wrong?" Pei Jing hurriedly grabbed her hand, finding it shaking badly.


    But An Jingzhi withdrew her hand from his palm, asking in a quivering voice, "Where did you go?"


    "Didn''t I tell you I had something to do? How are you feeling? Is the pain severe?" Pei Jing gently exined while regretting leaving her alone in the ward, otherwise he could have discovered her agony earlier.


    Although no one could rece a woman in the pain of childbirth.


    "Endure it a little longer, I''ll go get the doctor right away."


    As Pei Jing was about to leave, An Jingzhi endured the pain to ask him, "Why did you ask about An Meixia?"


    He probably didn''t know that after hearing from him that An Jingzhi was alone at the hospital, An Jingzhi hade to see her. Also hearing the three words "An Meixia" from Pei Jing''s mouth, he thought perhaps An Jingzhi didn''t hate those three words that much, and casually brought it up.


    "I didn''t mean to ask about An Meixia, I just wanted to get to the bottom of where that note came from." Pei Jing quickly exined, "Jingzhi, I don''t know what you''re trying to hide, but that note clearly has extraordinary power, and the matter is rted to you. So we must find out its origins. If there''s nothing else then fine, but if there is, we have to deal with it cleanly and early, otherwise no one can be sure if some uncontroble things might happen because of this. Trust me, you''re my wife and the mother of my children, I will never harm you."


    Pei Jing''s heart was racing, extremely worried about her condition. He simply picked her up and carried her out the door.


    "Nurse, my wife is going intobor..."


    Two nurses jogged over. Seeing Pei Jing easily carrying the pregnant woman, one directed him, "Carry her to the delivery room, over here."


    [I''ll give an exnation - the first life''s story will be interspersed in the plot, which is why Zhao Runze appears.


    Also, don''t be confused - this is a double purity story, faithful in the past and present lives.]

 Chapter 210: The Baby鈥檚 not Saved

    <h4>Chapter 210</h4>


    Pei Jing put her down and held out his index finger to sp her hand.


    The nurse felt Pei Jing''s abdomen a few times, as if examining something, and her calm voice came, "It will still take a while before she can give birth. Family members please go out and wait."


    ZhiXia''s pain had subsided for the moment as she breathed heavily to catch her breath.


    She didn''t know why, but this time the pain was much more intense than when she gave birth to the dragon and phoenix twins. Last time, as soon as the pain started, her water broke, but this time it still hadn''t broken.


    Pei Jing''s gaze remained fixed on ZhiXia, making ZhiXia''s heart tighten. She spoke to the nurse, "Nurse, can I stay here with her? Or wait until it''s almost time for her to give birth before I leave?"


    "I''m afraid that''s not allowed. Please go out and wait."


    Pei Jing frowned deeply, reached out to touch ZhiXia''s forehead, and bent over to whisper reassuringly in her ear, "ZhiXia, don''t get angry. I''ll exin everything to you when you get out, okay? Or you can hit me or yell at me if you want. Just don''t get angry with yourself, I would feel terrible."


    ZhiXia didn''t even know what exactly she was angry about. Perhaps she was just feeling uneasy.


    Her sped hand suddenly tightened painfully. Sweat began beading on her skin, her fingers trembling uncontrobly, and she was too weak even to speak.


    There was a surge below, and the midwife urged, "Her water broke. Family members, please leave quickly."


    As reluctant as Pei Jing was, he could only stand up and leave, looking back every three steps.


    When he was a few steps from the bed, the nurse whisked the curtain closed,pletely blocking his view.


    She then emerged from behind the curtain herself and shut the door tightly after Pei Jing left the room.


    Having seen countless women give birth, she couldn''t help rolling her eyes to herself. This was the first time she had seen such a tall, handsome yet overdramatic man. He really didn''t match his appearance at all.


    But then again, it was understandable since his wife was so beautiful that he would be worried about her.


    With the door closed, Pei Jing hurried off to find An ZhiXian.


    It was already midday. An ZhiXian had just finished seeing a patient when Pei Jing rushed over. "ZhiXia has gone intobor. Do you have time to let the family know so they cane over?"


    The children''s things and change of clothes were still in the delivery room, and someone would need to look after both the three children and ZhiXia. He alone would not be enough.


    As soon as he heard the news, even Doctor An ZhiXian couldn''t help feeling nervous. "Why are you running around when she''s about to give birth? What if something happens and the family can''t be reached? Go back and keep watch. I''ll let the family know."


    School hadn''t started yet, so he couldn''t reach anyone by phone either. He''d have to go home to notify them.


    Fortunately, over the past few days, he had already arranged with his colleagues to find someone to cover for him as soon as there was any news from ZhiXia.


    In fact, his colleagues were also puzzled why he as ZhiXia''s brother had asked for leave. How could he be of any help when the family already had plenty of people to provide care?


    The Pei family and An family arrived quickly. They found Pei Jing pacing tensely outside the delivery room, hands sped showing his anxiety.


    "What''s going on? Has she given birth yet?" Zhou Nan stepped forward and asked worriedly.


    Although it was just past New Year��s and still cold weather, she had broken out in a full sweat and felt incredibly stuffy.


    "She''s been in there for a while but there''s no news yet." Pei Jing replied mechanically.


    Just then a shriek pierced the air from the next delivery room, the woman''s shrill voice filled with agony, "I can''t do this anymore, I''m going to die from the pain..."


    Everyone''s hearts lurched.


    If giving birth to one child was already so painful, ZhiXia was having triplets.


    They hadn''t been presentst time when she gave birth to the twins, so while they were concerned, it was mostly joy upon hearing of the babies'' arrival.


    But waiting outside this time, they truly felt how tense things were.


    ZhiXia''s delivery room remained eerily quiet while the woman next door kept screaming, making the waiting even more nerve wracking not knowing exactly what was going on.


    Of them all, An Zhiren had the least experience and knowledge about childbirth. Hearing the difference between the two delivery rooms, he worried: "There''s been no sound from ZhiXia''s side. Could something be wrong?"


    "Shame on you, boy, for saying something so ill-omened!" The olddy flushed angrily and gave him a resounding p on the back. "Every woman''sbor progresses differently. Some are in terrible pain the whole time, some don''t even feel anything before the baby pops out, and some have a very high pain tolerance..." She said this part to Pei Jing.


    Giving birth was always an ordeal for women. Ten months of pregnancy only to suffer through delivery for that one day. The agony was not just physical but also psychological as they became mothers. One could not take this lightly.


    Besides, giving birth did a number on a woman''s health. Many were hale and hearty before having children but prone to colds, fever, back pain afterwards, their constitution clearly not what it was in their maiden days.


    Pei Jing''s whole mind was focused on the delivery room even though he couldn''t hear anything.


    He had personally cared for ZhiXia when she gave birth to the twins, so he knew full well how difficult it was.


    And this time, there had also been the unpleasantness with Zhao Runze. Remembering how she had endured in silence when he first entered earlier, Pei Jing felt wretched.


    Why did he have to pick then of all times to get to the bottom of that piece of paper? He shouldn''t have done so right before she went intobor.


    He even wondered if his questioning had brought on herbor prematurely, although it was already about her due date.


    "Wah..."


    From waiting since noon until afternoon, the first baby''s cries finally sounded from the delivery room.


    The door remained closed though, since they knew she was having triplets. Despite their anxiety, those waiting outside still had to be patient.


    A nurse pushed a trolley to the delivery room door, opened it, and went inside.


    Zhou Nan took the chance when the door opened to peek inside but only saw the curtain blocking any view.


    "It''s lunchtime. I''ll keep watch here while you all go eat," the nurse with the trolley called to those delivering the babies.


    "The mother is doing well. She''s delivered a big, fat baby boy and still has two inside. We should keep delivering."


    The nurse with the trolley looked at ZhiXia, drenched in sweat and with ashenplexion, clearly in a dazed state.


    "Oh right, go let the family outside know. Get the mother something to eat to keep up her strength." said the midwife.


    "Got it. Take the baby out for them to hold first then." The baby still had some blood and was hastily cleaned before being wrapped up.


    The nurse with the trolley stepped forward. "Let me do that."


    Just then a call came from inside, "Herees another, hurry back to help!"


    The nurse hugged the baby out past the curtain, quickly cleaned him up, and took him outside.


    "Congrattions, it''s a girl. The mother is delivering again. Family members can get her something to eat to replenish her strength."


    Pei Jing was closest so he immediately took the baby from her.


    The nurse headed back inside before wheeling her trolley away.


    Zhou Nan rushed over to take a look before going to get food for ZhiXia. But at first nce, she was shocked. "Does this baby look a little off?"


    Pei Jing noticed something wrong too. He touched the baby and found her worryingly hot.


    An ZhiXian hastily took over the baby, lifting her eyelids for a look. Her condition did not seem like she was merely sleeping.


    He checked her pulse and his heart plummeted.


    He was not a neonatal doctor but understood that in this state, she was beyond saving.


    "The baby cried loudly at birth so she shouldn''t have died." Although technically still breathing, she was essentially gone, the difference being that slight breath left.


    If something had truly been wrong, the nurse who first brought her out could not have missed it.


    Understanding immediately, An ZhiXian and Pei Jing exchanged a look before Pei Jing rushed off after the nurse with the trolley while shouting back for them to urgently ask what was going on inside the delivery room.


    Still confused, Zhou Nan asked, "What exactly is happening?"


    "No time to exin now!" An ZhiXian pounded urgently on the delivery room door. "Open the door, hurry..."


    The wooden door swiftly opened and the midwife''s annoyed voice carried out, "What''s with the racket? The mother is still giving birth! What are you all doing?"

 Chapter 211: Are you sure it鈥檚 a Healthy Guy

    <h4>Chapter 211</h4>


    Before An ZhiXian asked, he couldn''t help leaving a wary eye, "Sorry, we just wanted to ask, why has the baby been asleep since being taken out and not woken up? Was there something wrong when he was born?"


    An ZhiXian was a doctor, tall and handsome himself, the crush of many young nurses.


    The nurse who opened the door clearly recognized him too, her voice somewhat softened, "Dr. An, you''re a doctor yourself. Isn''t it very normal for a newborn baby to sleep a lot? Don''t worry, I''ve examined the baby, he''s a very healthy little guy, just looks small, he''ll be fine once he gets some multiple feeding, there''s nothing wrong. I''ll close the door first, the next one''sing out soon, please wait."


    An ZhiXian stopped her again, "Are you sure he''s a very healthy little guy?"


    Only then did the nurse sense something wrong. ncing down, the child''s face had already turned from red to cyanotic.


    "How...what''s going on?" The nurse was also confused about the situation, and afraid to say the wrong thing to take responsibility onto herself, she didn''t dare speak arbitrarily. But inadvertently seeing the baby''s face, she hurriedly urged them, "The baby doesn''t look so good, why don''t you hurry up and take him to the doctor?"


    She was very sure the baby was fine when he was born. But he was only taken out for how long and how did he be like this?


    "Second brother, go after Pei Jing quickly. The baby may have been switched. Mom, you and grandma go into the delivery room to keep an eye on ZhiXia and the babies. Don''t let her and the babies out of your sight no matter what." An ZhiXian could already confirm it. Handing the baby to An JingZhi''s arms, "I''ll go look for the baby too. Dad, take this one to the doctor first."


    Whether they could still save him or not, at least it was still a life, and the baby was innocent.


    As soon as An ZhiRen heard, he ran without even having a chance to ask a question.


    With so many people guarding outside, the baby was still switched. The other side must have nned it beforehand.


    But why?


    For reasons like the Gao family switching ZhiXia?


    Very unlikely.


    That kind of opportunity could only happen by a fluke. Not possible to go to such great lengths.


    An ZhiRen suddenly remembered the figure he saw at the hospital a few days ago.


    Was it a coincidence?


    But right now, coincidences were what he believed least.


    When An ZhiXian caught up, he saw An ZhiRen standing there motionless, anxiety all over his handsome face, "Second brother, why are you standing there nkly? Didn''t I tell you to hurry up and chase after Pei Jing?"


    "Little brother, Pei Jing''s martial arts skills are way above ours. If even he can''t catch up, us going would be futile. Listen to me now. The baby being switched was done so meticulously, there must be hospital people helping. Go do two things now. One is to find out how many babies were born in the hospital these past two days, whether they were boys or girls, and whether Wang Caixiang hase to the hospital for treatment recently. I saw her at the hospital entrance a few days ago and find her very suspicious about this matter. I''m going to find Wang Caixiang now."


    If it weren''t for the incident of ZhiXia being switched at home before, their vignce would have been high. I''m afraid this matter would have really just been glossed over like this.


    His suspicion was not unreasonable. After all, the Wang family was known for doing harmful selfish deeds.


    But if it really was Wang Caixiang''s doing, then the one most deserving death should be him.


    It was the mess he caused. And he didn''t take action early to deal with this woman. It was his fault.


    But now was not the time for self-me. He had to find the baby first.


    In the delivery room, another loud cry came. Zhou Nan and old madam guarded by ZhiXia, hearing the voice, one hurriedly went to look at the baby.


    The two midwives were also nervous. Although not understanding exactly what happened, but seeing this whole family on high alert, they knew things were probably not good.


    Feeling somewhat regretful for not agreeing to let the family member stay in the delivery room. If something really happened, with the family pursuing it, not to mention their jobs would be unsafe, who knows if they might have to take some responsibility.


    ZhiXia was very weak, but notpletely unconscious. Turning her head with great effort asking old madam, "Grandma, why did you alle in?"


    Old madam''s nose soured, but didn''t dare tell her about the baby''s matter. She could only hold her hand, "Grandma was worried about you, so came in with your mom to keep youpany. Don''t worry, be good and listen to the doctor, there''s still one more baby. We''ll be fine after giving birth."


    "Mm." ZhiXia lightly murmured, feeling something was off somehow.


    But the loss of strength and fatigue in her body kept her brainpletely unable to function. Other than pain and difort all over her body, especially down there, she couldn''t even feel any sensations anymore.


    By the time thest baby was born, ZhiXia hadpletely fainted.


    Pei''s father-inw and old master each carried a baby, not daring to let go at all.


    ZhiXia was sent back to the maternity ward with three seniors guarding her and the two babies, not daring to leave even an inch.


    They could now only pray for Pei Jing to hurry back with the baby.


    The baby girl sent to the doctor had already died. They were probably afraid her cries would foil their n. The less than two day old newborn was actually drugged. What a sin.


    With so many people guarding outside, yet the baby was still switched. Don''t know how they would exin things when ZhiXia wakes up.


    It''s said that one can onlymit crimes for a thousand days, but preventing crimes has no limit. Who could have expected something like this to happen. That thief was so audacious to make the switch under these circumstances.


    The hospital had only doctors and nurses. Everyone dressed simrly, making them difficult to find.


    Pei Jing stopped the person at the bathroom door.


    Probably confident that she wouldn''t be recognized, or perhaps she really was hospital staff. So she didn''t change out of the nurse''s uniform.


    Seeing Pei Jing blocking her way, the little nurse was clearly panicked. It was this reaction that let Pei Jing confirm he had the right person.


    "What...what are you trying to do?" The little nurse said nervously.


    The small cart she had been pushing was no longer in sight. Pei Jing walked up, tone full of threat, "Where''s the baby that was switched?"


    "What switched baby? I don''t know what you''re talking about. Please let me through,rade. I still have work to do."


    The little nurse wanted to leave but was blocked by Pei Jing again. "You can choose not to admit it, but there are two other nurses in the delivery room. Are you going to confront them?"


    "I don''t understand what you''re saying. If you don''t let me pass, I''ll have to call for people." The little nurse circled around trying to run after finishing.


    Pei Jing rushed up grabbing her arm twisting it behind her back. The little nurse instantly struggled, "Help...assault...save me..."


    Pei Jing forcibly restrained her. No matter what others said, he refused to let go.


    Only when the dean came did Pei Jing take out his military pass exining the situation.


    To catch a thief, one had to get their hands dirty. Everything was still Pei Jing and their guesswork. They couldn''t deny it was their child just because the baby taken out wasn''t doing well.


    Plus saying their hospital''s nurse had switched the baby was no small matter. With no reason or grudge, why should they take this me for the hospital?


    With so many eyewitnesses, who would daree to their hospital for treatment afterwards?


    "Comrade, don''t you think you''ve made a mistake?" Dean Ma said with a smile trying to smooth things over. "Even if you''re military, you can''t just say our hospital''s nurse switched the baby, right? Plus your wife gave birth to triplets. It''smon for some babies to not do as well. Let''s properly diagnose and examine the child. We can''t deny it''s your child just because of this. And even if our hospitalpensates you with a baby, it still wouldn''t be of your seed, right?"


    An ZhiXian had already investigated clearly over there. Hearing from the delivery room Pei Jing hadn''t returned yet before hurrying over. Just happening to hear this part, he squeezed over saying: "Dean, what you said isn''t entirely unreasonable. But I just came from OB. The baby brought out and handed to us had already been born for two days and also given anesthetics. He has currently died. In this kind of situation, it''s clearly premeditated. Can you still close your eyes saying there''s no problem?"


    Hearing this, the original spection was confirmed. Pei Jing''s eyes instantly turned sharp, "I''ll give you one more chance. Exin clearly right away. Where have you hidden my child? Otherwise you can go to the detention center and exin yourself. Plotting harm on military dependents, kidnapping military children, do you know what crimes those are?"


    The little nurse panicked badly. That person only told her to find a way to switch the babies. Didn''t tell her the father was military!


    Moreover, judging from her appearance, she was a tough nut to crack who would not be easy to fool.


    When An ZhiXian saw that she was still hesitating, he said to Pei Jing: "You keep an eye on her. I''ll go to the police station now. A life has already been lost, so it''s best to let the police handle this."


    "You can''t call the police." Now that this matter had already erupted, if it escted to the police station, their hospital''s reputation would bepletely ruined. Ma Dean quickly stopped An ZhiXian, "Dr. An, this is a private matter between you all that has nothing to do with our hospital, right? Reporting this would ruin the hospital."


    "Since this incident urred in the hospital and involves a nurse who works here, the hospital cannot wash its hands of this. Moreover, we gave her a chance - as long as we can find the child..."


    Although An ZhiXian couldn''t remember this nurse''s name, they worked in the same hospital so he recognized her face. He was threatening the nurse. He hated her guts now, but finding the child was still the top priority.


    A newborn baby was very fragile and couldn''t withstand such turbulence. They couldn''t afford to dy right now.


    As soon as the young nurse heard this, her legs gave out and she knelt on the ground, pleading, "I...I''ll tell everything I know, please don''t call the police..."

 Chapter 212: Is This the Child

    <h4>Chapter 212</h4>


    When this happened in the hospital, some visiting patients had already looked over.


    Ma Dean let the nurses around him dispel the patients, and also coaxed them to hurry up and get up and go to an empty ward next door to talk.


    "There was a woman who had already given birth to 4 daughters at home and just wanted a son. She gave birth to another daughter yesterday and gave me 200 yuan to get her a son instead," the little nurse said tearfully. "I was just bewildered for a moment and dazzled by the 200 yuan. You asked me to tell everything and I''ve told you everything. I''ve also taken the baby to the mother''s side. If you want to find the child, just go find her."


    ording to the ce the nurse had said, Pei Jing had already gone over.


    An ZhiXian still stood guard here and refused to let the nurse leave. Ma Dean could only wait with them.


    When Pei Jing arrived at the maternity ward the nurse had mentioned, he saw that the family was already packing up and preparing to leave.


    Zhang Zhi held a baby wrapped up tightly in his arms. Pei Jing first asked to confirm their names. After making sure it was this family, he went up and snatched the child away, and also kicked Zhang Zhi with one foot.


    Thatst kick was deliberately from him, indeed with some personal grudge.


    After unwrapping the small quilt wrapping the child, making sure it was a boy, he then re-wrapped the quilt.


    "What are you doing? Snatching a child,e on people..." Zhang Zhi crawled up from the ground and shouted loudly, baring his teeth as he charged at Pei Jing, "Give me back my son, you damned..."


    The family had only gotten this one son after giving birth to four daughters. The whole family regarded him as the root of their lives and he could not be lost.


    Li Xiu, the woman who had just struggled to her feet to stand after giving birth, was also taken aback. She disregarded the fact that her husband Zhang Zhi had just been kicked, and rushed up to try and snatch the baby back.


    Luckily Pei Jing still had some consideration. He understood that a woman who had just given birth a child could not move her fists and feet like Zhang Zhi. He could only dodge her pounce.


    Because of Zhang Zhi''s shouting, many patients and their families had also gathered at the door.


    If Pei Jing did not have such an imposing manner, and did not look like someone who would steal a child, someone might have already rushed up to subdue him.


    "You bribed the nurse to use the girl you just gave birth to and swapped my son for her. The nurse who swapped the babies has already confessed everything. Don''t even think about leaving. Doing something so unconscionable, you should just wait to go to the police station and exin," Pei Jing exined everything in a few words, startling everyone outside the door.


    To think there would actually be a nurse in the hospital who dared to do such a thing. How could anyone trust this hospital again? Who would dare give birth here again in the future, for fear that their own child would be swapped?


    Zhang Zhi was clearly unaware of this matter. He looked at his wife in shock. "Is what he said true? You gave birth to another baby girl? And you actually bribed a nurse to use your baby girl and swap someone else''s son? Where did you get those 200 yuan from?"


    The woman who had just given birth also did not expect this matter to be exposed. She exined in horror, "No, I didn''t swap the baby. Father, believe me, this really is our child. If you don''t believe me, you can go and ask the nurse who delivered him yesterday. They must not have made a mistake. I really gave birth to a son."


    Zhang Zhi''s expression was clearly somewhat hesitant.


    Although he did not have a son, he was also unwilling to raise someone else''s son.


    But his wife had said that this was the child she gave birth to. Was it worth believing?


    "Comrade, I think this must be a misunderstanding. As for my wife at home, she doesn''t make decisions. She doesn''t even have two yuan on her, let alone spending 200 yuan to bribe a nurse. This is simply impossible," Zhang Zhi finally decided that he could not let the other person take the child away. This son that he finally had was hard-earned and he had to make it clear whether it was his own kind or not.


    "Let''s do this. Let''s go together and ask the nurses who delivered the baby yesterday to see if my wife gave birth to a boy or girl."


    He definitely wanted to win back a son if that''s what the child was. But if it did turn out to be a daughter...


    Zhang Zhi looked gloomily at the woman still lying on the ground. If she had actually given birth to another daughter and made ns for him to raise another man''s son... then he would have to get rid of this wife.


    It could be heard from his words that he was an extremely male chauvinist man who had no tenderness or respect for his wife at all. Otherwise, he would not have ignored his wife who had just given birth, leaving her lying on the ground for so long.


    Seeing that Zhang Zhi did not seem to know the truth, it was possible that this was really just the woman acting on her own.


    Having lost his child himself, Pei Jing understood this kind of heartache. He could not forcibly take the child away from others.


    Luckily the child was already in his arms. He had at least not lost the child again.


    He nodded in agreement to Zhang Zhi''s suggestion.


    However, when Zhang Zhi wanted toe over and take the baby, Pei Jing dodged him.


    "Youe with me to see the dean first, then find the nurses who delivered the baby yesterday to ask questions," Pei Jing said.


    Zhang Zhi hurried to keep up. Although he didn''t snatch the child back, he still had to keep a close eye on him. He couldn''t let anyone take the child out of the hospital.


    Before it was confirmed that his wife had given birth to a girl, this was his son. It would be awful to lose him.


    The two of them came to the ward together and exined the situation to the dean. The two nurses who had delivered the baby yesterday were quickly found.


    But the matter made Pei Jing and An ZhiXian surprised, because the testimonies of the two nurses were consistent that the woman indeed gave birth to a son.


    Either these two nurses had also been bribed by the woman, but ording to Zhang Zhi''s words, the woman did not have so much money.


    There was another possibility that the ambnce nurse who swapped the babies was lying.


    Seeing the fierce stares around her, the ambnce nurse who was still slumped on the ground quickly defended herself. "I''m not lying. Believe me, I can confront the person who came to me. It was them who gave me money and asked me to swap the baby. Look, the money is still on me!"


    She shakily took 200 yuan out of her arms, but no one could focus their minds on money in this situation.


    After hearing this, Zhang Zhi was so happy that his mouth was split to his ears. "I said it must be my son. You also heard what they said. My wife did indeed give birth to a son. After having 4 daughters, she should have a son sooner orter. Hurry and give my child back to me!"


    He walked forward to take the child from Pei Jing''s arms, and decided not to fuss about the pain from the two kicks just now after seeing how pitiful this man was from losing his child.


    "Sorry, there are still many doubts about this matter. I can''t hand the child over to you for now," Pei Jing was still unwilling to hand over the child. He grabbed the key point and asked the wheelchair nurse, "Who are ''they'' that you mentioned? Besides the mother who asked you to swap babies, was there another person?"


    Li Xiu, who had struggled to rush over, had already pushed the door open. "I said, I can tell you all, please give me back my child. I really didn''t swap your family''s child, I swear, really..."


    "You damned woman, what on earth is going on? Hurry up and exin it to them clearly!" Zhang Zhi was anxious to get his son back, and his anger showed on his face at this time. "You better give me an honest exnation. Did these two nurses take your bribe or not? Otherwise why would they bite us for no reason?��


    He couldn��t help but be suspicious again. If he took the child back and raised the wrong child who wasn��t his own, wouldn��t he suffer a great loss?


    Zhang Zhi was only twenty-six or twenty-seven years old, not yet at an age where he couldn��t have children. There was no reason to raise another man��s son.


    If it really wasn''t his own kind, he would rather go back and try for another child instead of being a cheap dad to someone else.

 Chapter 213: Let鈥檚 Not Go Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 213</h4>


    "I didn''t, I really didn''t, you have to believe me," Li Xiu now regretted it so much that she wanted to die. If she had known earlier, she should not have been persuaded by her cousin and got into this situation, "I didn''t originally have this kind of idea, it was you who said that if this baby was going to be another girl, then tell me to get lost. I was afraid in my heart, and then Wang Caixiang gave me an idea and she provided the money while the nurse was also bribed by her. But heaven had mercy on me and I gave birth to a son yesterday, so let''s just drop this matter... I really don''t know anything after that..."


    It was just a coincidence that Li Xiu''s cousin was Wang Caixiang from her mother''s side of the family.


    The nurse with the cart now also reacted, "Yes, it was that woman apanying her who made the deal with me. After the babies were swapped, I handed the baby to her, but I don''t know where the baby is now."


    The two delivery room nurses unanimously insisted that the baby Li Xiu gave birth to was a son.


    Pei Jing and An ZhiXian looked at each other, and An ZhiXian said, "Second brother also suspects Wang Caixiang. He has already gone to look for people now. I don''t know if he can find her or not."


    Pei Jing handed the baby in his arms to An ZhiXian, "You take care of this baby first. Take him to the nurses who helped ZhiXia deliver to recognize and see if they can recognize him. Remember, before Wang Caixiang is found, no more mistakes can happen to this child. I''m going to find second brother now. You guys take care of things at the hospital."


    An ZhiXian took over the baby. Pei Jing asked clearly about Wang Caixiang''s address and immediately ran out.


    Facing the obviously anxious Zhang Zhi and Li Xiu, An ZhiXian said, "I am An ZhiXian, an internal medicine doctor at this hospital, and also the uncle of the baby who was taken away. Before my nephew is found, I will temporarily take care of this baby, and I still hope that you can cooperate."


    "On what grounds?" Zhang Zhi asked angrily.


    "On the grounds that your wife bribed the nurse to do what she did, and that this incident resulted in the loss of my nephew. And you don''t know yet that there is another child''s life involved, a baby who was also born yesterday, who was fed sedatives and is now dead. You''d better think carefully about how to exin it to the police." An ZhiXian said coldly, "Dean Ma, this nurse is the key to this matter. I think she should be sent to the police station immediately. What she did was illegal. If she escapes by ident, it will be our hospital��s responsibility again."


    The nurse with the cart was so frightened that her eyes widened, "You can''t do this. Didn''t you say that as long as I confess honestly, you would let me go? How can you break your promise?"


    "I never said I would let you go. I just said I''d give you a chance," An ZhiXian said.


    Seeing him take the baby away, Zhang Zhi suddenly felt chilly all over.


    Ma Deanforted him from behind, "Doctor An is one of our hospital''s people. You can rest assured that he took the baby away. As long as it is confirmed that this baby is not his lost nephew, he will definitely return the baby to you immediately. His sister had triplets, all boys, so their family does notck sons either. He is looking for his own child, and will definitely not rob your son."


    At this time, Ma Dean had the biggest headache. He shouldered the prosperity of the entire hospital. After such an incident urred, he still had to think carefully about how to deal with the situation afterwards.


    Looking at the nurse still slumped on the ground, he really hated her guts.


    A rat had spoiled the soup, and now the whole hospital was going to pay for her 200 yuan.


    He called the people around him to send her to the police station, then hurried to investigate the matter again.


    The brother-inw of Doctor An didn''t look like an ordinary person. If they could find his lost son, it would be fine, but if they couldn''t find him, what should they do?


    Holding the baby, An ZhiXian strode to find the delivery nurse for identification.


    The two were uneasy in their hearts right now. They were responsible for the delivery. Even if they didn''t steal the baby themselves, they would still be held ountable if the baby was lost.


    If pursued, they would definitely not be able to keep their jobs.


    When An ZhiXian came, he handed the baby to them and spoke very politely.


    No matter how angry he was on the inside, he still needed these two for now, so he had to coax them well.


    The two carefully took over the baby and silently nced at each other. There was fear in their eyes, and also struggle.


    They both stared at the baby for a while, obviously very serious. One of them opened the swaddling nket, held the baby''s hands and feet, and looked at the front and back.


    The weather was too cold, and the baby shuddered violently with a cry.


    The nurse quickly wrapped up the baby again, looked up at An ZhiXian and said, "Doctor An, this is the baby, no mistake. He has arge blue-ck bruise on his back. I checked it when I picked him up after birth. No mistake."


    The other also quickly said, "Yes, although I only looked at his face when I delivered him, I can still recognize him. This is the baby."


    However, An ZhiXian frowned tightly, "Are you sure?"


    "Sure!" Although they spoke like this, An ZhiXian could clearly see the panic on their faces.


    "But when I look at this baby, he looks like he was born yesterday. You two have delivered many babies. Can''t you even tell this?" An ZhiXian didn''t know this well, he really couldn''t tell. He was just bluffing them.


    Obviously they panicked, but still argued sophistically, "How can you tell? Actually newborns all look the same. Some are born sturdy, looking like they''ve been out for many days. You can''t tell for sure."


    "I really hope you two are telling the truth. After all, this matter also involves a human life. If you identally say the wrong thing, it is very likely that you will be implicated in a homicide case." An ZhiXian said.


    After he left with the baby, the younger nurse said, "We won''t really get implicated in a homicide case, right?"


    She just wanted to keep her job and not take responsibility. She had been conscientious at work over the past few years. It was just this time that she got into trouble because of someone else''s mistake. Why should she take responsibility?


    That cheap woman who switched the babies really did great harm.


    The older nurse was also frightened into a cold sweat, "It has nothing to do with us that someone else administered the drugs. Even if there is anything, we just misidentified the babies. After all, newborns look very simr, it''s normal to identify them wrongly. And we already said what we said, there is no room left to change our story. Listen to me, since he brought the baby here for us to identify, it means that this baby is likely to be the one that was taken away."


    She whispered in the ear of the younger nurse, "Besides, we can''t say for sure whether the babies were switched or not. Maybe it''s just that they can''t ept the reality that their own baby died, so they made up this whole thing. After all, it''s all what they said, we didn''t see the baby switch happen."


    "But the baby we delivered was clearly a boy."


    "The two of us were overwhelmed at that time and our vision was blurred. We can''t say for sure. Anyway, listen to me, since it''s already been said, we have to stand firm. Changing our story now will only arouse more suspicion."


    She was also thinking of running for nurse supervisor this year. With this matter weighing her down, let alone a promotion, she might not even be able to keep her job.


    As the old saying goes, when a man does evil, he destroys himself. She just wanted to keep her job and didn''t mean any harm. May heaven bless that this is really their taken-away baby, and that nothing else goes wrong.

 Chapter 214: Will you Give Me a Baby

    <h4>Chapter 214</h4>


    An ZhiXian carried the baby back to the delivery room, where Zhou Nan had been waiting at the door all this while. Seeing him carry the baby back, she hurriedly went up to meet him.


    Her eyes were red - clearly from crying earlier - and she finally heaved a sigh of relief now, reaching out to take the baby from An ZhiXian''s arms, "Thank heavens, thank heavens, at least we got him back."


    But An ZhiXian didn''t let her take the baby. Instead, he said dejectedly, "Mom, don''t get your hopes up too high. We''re still not sure if this is our baby."


    Zhou Nan''s heart clenched again instantly, "What do you mean ''not sure''? If this isn''t the baby who was swapped from our family, why did you bring him back?"


    "Mom, I said I''m not certain. It''splicated, I''ll exin to youter." An ZhiXian''s head was buzzing painfully, like it would explode any moment. Yet he had to force himself to stay lucid, "Right, how''s my sister? Has she woken up?"


    "Still not awake. Her body is very weak. She hasn''t even opened her eyes this whole time, so she doesn''t know about the baby yet." Saying so, Zhou Nan''s eyes brimmed with tears again.


    No one knew what sin they hadmitted to make the child suffer like this.


    "It''s good that she''s not awake." An ZhiXian thought to himself that having just given birth, his sister was already physically feeble. If she woke up to find out her baby was missing, the consequences would be unthinkable.


    He could only hope that Pei Jing and his second brother were sessful in finding the baby before his sister woke up.


    Zhou Nan was also extremely worried.


    Hearing voices outside, the others came out from the room too, leaving only grandmother to watch over the two babies and ZhiXia.


    An ZhiXian briefly exined the situation to An JingZhi, then handed the baby in his arms over to them, instructing them to look after him well. Only then did he rush off to find Pei Jing and the others.


    At this point, An JingZhi and the rest couldn''t offer much help either, other than watching over the babies and ZhiXia.


    He ced the new baby beside the other two, intending topare them.


    But grandfather quickly stopped him, "Don''t mix up the three babies again. We still don''t know if this one is ours."


    Old Pei also came over to take a look. Newborns all looked quite alike, so it was truly hard to tell them apart when ced together. They couldn''t afford to mess up the other two either.


    An JingZhi jumped in fright, but luckily he was clutching the babies tightly and no mishaps urred. "I''m justparing them. ZhenYue and WanQing look almost identical. Maybe we can spot something from the triplets too. Also, the wrapping cloths and sizes are different. There''s no way I''ll mix them up."


    The two elderly men and olddy gathered around as well. Indeed, some differences could be observed.


    The baby An ZhiXian brought back was visiblyrger in size, but that didn''t prove anything since the other two weren''t of equal sizes either.


    Additionally, this baby had meconium on his head, and his skin was also slightly darker.


    The other two babies had clean foreheads without any stains, with fair and lustrous skin without a single wrinkle. Other than their smaller size, nothing gave away that they were just newborns.


    Old Pei quickly asked Zhou Nan, "ZhiQing''s mom, did ZhenYue and WanQing have meconium on their heads when they were born?"


    Only then did Zhou Nan carefully recall, shaking her head firmly, "No, both of them were clean, with fair, soft skin and double eyelids when they were born. They looked like beautiful babies."


    The elders exchanged disappointed looks with one another.


    They genuinely hoped the baby could be found, even if he wasn''t as good-looking.


    But the greatest difficulty now was that they couldn''t recognize their own baby.


    No one had even seen him before, let alone knew what he looked like. They couldn''t simply go by resemnce to confirm identities, otherwise what if they raised the wrong child? How would they handle that?


    ...


    It had only been 10 days since the divorce. An ZhiRen had been living at home recently, while Wang Caixiang lived alone in that house - but only until the school reopened.


    Since the house had already been returned to the school, it would be reallocated after the new semester began. She would definitely be driven out by then.


    Luckily for An ZhiRen who couldn''t be bothered to deal with Wang Caixiang anymore, the school would step in to chase her away. So he could easily find out her address at this time.


    He randomly dumped his bicycle on the ground and barged into the house impatiently.


    Everything inside looked the same as before. Wang Caixiang still sat at the table, surrounded by stacks of paper boxes glued neatly. Her hands kept brushing glue on them incessantly.


    She didn''t seem surprised by his arrival at all, only affirming An ZhiRen''s guess that she was indeed involved in this matter.


    He strode forward to grab her arm. The paper box Wang Caixiang had just glued dropped to the floor.


    Sheughed mockingly as she turned to face him, her eyes filled with ridicule.


    "Did you do something to the baby? Where have you hidden him?" An ZhiRen gripped her arm so tightly that the veins on the back of his hand popped out. He showed no tenderness at all toward her.


    "What baby? What are you talking about?" Wang Caixiang struggled unsessfully to break free, then scoffed, "Grabbing me so forcefully, don''t tell me you regret divorcing me already?"


    "Stop spouting nonsense. If you know what''s good for you, confess where you''ve hidden the baby yourself, Wang Caixiang. You should know I ran out of patience and sympathy for you long ago. Don''t make me get physical." An ZhiRen twisted her arms behind her back and shoved her body onto the table.


    The neatly stacked boxes tumbled to the floor with a ttering noise.


    An ZhiRen pressed down hard on her arms. Wang Caixiang shrieked in pain as her arms were twisted behind her back, feeling as if they would fall off.


    "It hurts..." The disparity in strength between men and women was just too vast. Wang Caixiang couldn''t struggle at all. "Let go of me, An ZhiRen, don''t go crazy. I don''t know what you''re talking about. We''re already divorced. If you darey hands on me again, I''m reporting you to the police."


    Seeing that she refused to admit it, An ZhiRen felt even more anxious and resentful.


    His gaze swept the surroundings, suddenly catching sight of scissors fallen on the floor.


    He picked up the scissors and held the sharp des to Wang Caixiang''s cheek. "Are you going to talk or not? Wang Caixiang, don''t force me to drag you to hell with me!"


    His hand trembled slightly and the des drew a bloody gash on her face.


    Wang Caixiang thought she could stoically face death, but when the moment truly came, she was still afraid.


    An ZhiRen was a madman. Forcing her into such dire straits when she would soon be homeless, and her stolen money was gone too. She really had no other options left.


    Hardening her heart, Wang Caixiang''s eyes shed with resolute desperation. "An ZhiRen, I''m warning you now to put down those scissors immediately, otherwise don''t think about ever finding out what happened to your nephew."


    "So it was you after all. Where have you hidden the baby?" Now An ZhiRen felt not only furious but also regretful.


    He shouldn''t have left Wang Caixiang to fend for herself. He should have made her share the same fate as the Wang family - either death or penal servitude. That would have eliminated this hidden peril and his sister and her newborn wouldn''t have suffered because of it.


    "Put down the scissors." Wang Caixiang yelled, "If you want to know the baby''s whereabouts, then you''ll have to listen to me."


    An ZhiRen lowered the scissors and flung them far away.


    Even without anything in their hands, there was no way Wang Caixiang could escape from his clutches.


    He had overpowered her once, he could do it a second time too.


    "Go on then." An ZhiRen gritted his teeth impatiently.


    Seeing the man who had always been condescending toward her in the past few years now driven to such desperate straits, Wang Caixiang felt an undeniable thrill.


    Sheughed unrestrainedly and taunted, "You truly dote on that sister of yours huh. I wonder though, how far you''d go for her sake?"


    An ZhiRen had never felt his patience wear so thin. He had no wish to indulge in pointless chatter.


    Perhaps sensing that his patience was almost depleted, Wang Caixiang spoke again before itpletely ran out, "An ZhiRen, don''t you detest me? Didn''t you refuse to touch me? But I truly have feelings for you. Everything I did was for your sake. As long as you promise to be with me, I''ll do anything you ask...how about it?"


    Wang Caixiang had really lost her mind, yet An Zhiren could only humor her. "Alright, I promise you. Now can you please tell me where the child is?"


    "Zhiren, I do like you, but I''m still just a high schooler. I''m not an idiot. If I tell you where the child is now, how can you possibly let me live?"


    "What exactly do you want?"


    "I want you to sleep with me, right here and now." Wang Caixiang moved closer, caressing the face she had been dreaming about day and night. She really did like him a lot. "Zhiren, give me a child, our child. Wouldn''t that be nice? As long as I''m pregnant, I''ll give the child back to you. Otherwise, you can kill me now, but you''ll never find that child again!"

 Chapter 215: Schadenfreude

    <h4>Chapter 215</h4>


    An Zhiren was taken aback by her audacity. "I didn''t take you for a fool, but it seems you''ve taken me for one."


    A scream of despair echoed from the room, unmasked and startling enough to make the neighbors shudder in fear.


    From behind the tightly shut door, a faint cry of a baby emerged, barely audible.


    An Zhiren was startled and quickly released Wang Caixiang, heading towards the room.


    "Don''t go..." Wang Caixiang lunged forward, attempting to grab his leg, but he kicked her away,nding a fierce blow to her chest.


    As he approached, the sound of the baby grew clearer, but the room was locked.


    An Zhiren nced around, finding nothing within reach. He took a step back and forcefully kicked the door open.


    At the moment the door swung open, the faint cry of the baby came from the cupboard.


    He quickly opened the cupboard and saw the tiny child, eyes closed and face red from crying.


    An Zhiren finally breathed a sigh of relief, carrying the child out of the cupboard and heading outside.


    "You can''t leave, An Zhiren! You''ve cornered me with no way out. You can''t leave..." Wang Caixiang pointed the bloodstained scissors at him. "If you won''t give me a way out, then let''s die together. None of us will live!"


    Although An Zhiren appeared refined and gentle, his grandfather had served in the military, and he had learned a few moves from his brothers.


    As he stepped out, he noticed a crowd of neighbors gathered outside, trying to catch a glimpse of what had happened.


    An Zhiren discreetly nced at the room and feigned weakness. "Could someone please do me a favor and go to the police station to report? Wang Caixiang conspired with the nurses at the hospital and stole my sister''s newborn baby. And now she wants to kill us with scissors..."


    He held the baby in his arms, who had stopped crying, but blood continued to flow from his chest, staining his clothes.


    When Pei Jini arrived, the police had already taken Wang Caixiang away, and An Zhiren had received basic first aid. He was about to be taken to the hospital.


    He held the child in his arms and looked at the tiny bundle, wrapped inyers of nkets, weighing less than four catties, as if not fully developed, with wrinkled, reddened skin resembling that of an old man.


    ...


    Zhi Xia was awakened by the noise. Wang Yue''s loud voice, without any restraint, couldn''t be heard clearly in her drowsiness.


    Just as she regained consciousness, she heard Zhou Nan mentioning her. "Lower your voice, Zhi Xia is still asleep. She''s weak, don''t disturb her."


    She wearily opened her eyes to find everyone in the room, including the main and second branches of the Pei family.


    But as she scanned the room, she didn''t see Pei Jini''s figure.


    Feeling somewhat disappointed was unavoidable.


    Zhou Nan was the first to notice her and quickly approached. "Zhi Xia, you''re awake? How are you feeling? Is there any difort?"


    Zhi Xia shook her head, looking at Zhou Nan''s teary eyes with a sense of confusion. "What happened? Did something go wrong?"


    She had simply been too weak from giving birth and had slept for a while. There shouldn''t have been any issues, right?


    As Zhou Nan looked around the room, it was evident that everyone had been crying. Their faces were somber and filled with sorrow, not a single smile among them.


    Suddenly, Zhi Xia realized, "Where is the child? Is there something wrong with the child?"


    "No, no, everything is fine. Don''t worry, Mom is just too worried about you." How could they exin? Their daughter risked her life in the delivery room to give birth to three children, and they, a group of people standing outside, couldn''t quietly swap the babies away.


    Until now, they didn''t know whether the child was alive or dead, or if they could even find them again.


    "Oh, sister-inw, I don''t think you should keep it from Zhi Xia. She will find out sooner orter. You can''t hide it from her," Wang Yue said with a sad face, but the gloating in her eyes couldn''t be concealed. "Zhi Xia, whether or not the child can be found, don''t be too sad. They say multiple births oftene withplications. At least you still have two healthy children."


    "Wang Yue, get out! My daughter doesn''t need you to visit!" Zhou Nan''s face turned grim as she looked at the woman in front of her, clearly harboring ill intentions.


    Pei JianGuo also came over to pull Wang Yue away. "Mom, at this critical moment, can you please say a little less?"


    Their attitudes were different. Although they both disliked Zhi Xia, they had lost his younger uncle''s child, and Pei JianGuo sincerely hoped the child could be found.


    It was at this moment that he suddenly didn''t feel so repulsed by Zhi Xia.


    People always subconsciously sympathize with the weak, and he arrogantly thought that Zhi Xia was pitiable.


    Old Pei also came over to ask Wang Yue to leave first, but he was deeply disappointed inside.


    Wang Yue had some ws in the past, but Old Pei believed that nobody was perfect as long as they had a good heart.


    But she was also a woman, a mother. Could she not understand how painful it would be for a woman who had just given birth to lose her child? Why did she have to say these things at this moment? Did she really think everyone was foolish and couldn''t see her gloating?


    Although the others didn''t say anything, their faces remained solemn.


    Wang Yue also realized that she had been too obvious in her behavior and left in a huff.


    Forget it, considering how pitiful she is, I won''t argue with them for now. Let her have her way for the time being.


    She, An Zhi Xia, just wanted to show off that she could give birth, one litter after another, like a pig. Such excessive attention always leads to trouble. Look, now she''s facing the consequences, isn''t she?


    Wang Yue had always treated Old Pei''s house as her son''s, and Pei Jing had made it clear in the past that he had no intention of getting married.


    But ever since An Zhi Xia came and gave birth to twins, she had felt a deep sense of crisis.


    And now, the old man wanted to donate the house, and no one couldy im to it.


    Although the duck hadn''t been caught yet, it had always been considered hers, and now it suddenly flew away. It was definitely heart-wrenching.


    "Now can you tell me what happened?" In the hospital room, Zhi Xia opened her eyes wide and refused to let go of their expressions. "Don''t lie to me under the guise of doing me a favor. Whether it''s about the child or myself, I want to hear the truth."


    After much contemtion, the olddy finally told Zhi Xia the truth.


    As Wang Yue had predicted, it was only a matter of time before the truth came out. For now, they could only hope that Pei Jing and the others would be able to bring the child back.


    Pei Jing was brought back by An ZhiXian. An Zhiren had been taken to deal with his chest wound and the excessive blood loss.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, An ZhiXian went to exin the situation to the police. Fortunately, Liu Jun was among the people who came, so there was no need to worry about anything.


    Pei Jing hurried back with the child in his arms and immediately saw his sister-inw, Wang Yue, standing at the door with a bright smile on her face.


    However, as soon as Wang Yue saw Pei Jing, her smile quickly faded.


    Without much time to think, Pei Jing carried the child into the room and saw Zhi Xia, who was already awake and sitting on the bed.


    He quickly handed the child over and in the face of everyone''s barrage of questions, he knew that Zhi Xia had also found out, so he quickly gave a brief response, "It was done by Wang Caixiang. When my brother went to look for her, the child was hidden in a cab in the house."


    "It''s good that you found the child, it''s good that you found the child. May God bless us..." Grandma sped her hands together and bowed in all directions before suddenly remembering something and quickly letting go.


    Zhou Nan was also very relieved, but when she saw the child, she still froze for a moment.

 Chapter 216: Blood Ties

    <h4>Chapter 216</h4>


    When Zhi Xia looked back, her deeply furrowed brows did not rx for a long time.


    Seeing that she remained silent, Pei Jing thought she was still angry and felt very guilty at the same time.


    But some words were not good to say in front of others.


    He put the child next to Zhi Xia, stood up and asked, "Third Brother An JingZhi should have brought back another child, right?"


    "Here." An JingZhi held the child and squeezed over, asking him, "Have you confirmed that the child is ours? Should we return this one to the parents? Just now the father of the child came over to take him back, but I didn''t dare let him hold the child. It was only after the hospital president intervened that I sent him away. "


    Zhi Xia had already seen that child. No matter the size or appearance, there was too much difference from the child she had given birth to.


    But the one next to her, although more like the size of multiples, also had a very big difference in appearance and looks.


    Pei Jing had rushed out earlier and had not seen the other two newborn children yet.


    Zhi Xia reminded him, "The other two are also sons. Go take a look."


    Pei Jing indeed hadn''t had a chance to see them yet. Hearing her words, he walked over.


    The two newborns were lying side by side. Their face shapes were slightly smaller than ordinary children''s, one was thinner, and the other''s face was slightly chubbier, but their skin was very good, clean and cute.


    This should have been a good thing, but Pei Jing''s face inevitably sank.


    He strode back to Zhi Xia''s side and looked seriously at the child he had just brought back, feeling extremely frustrated.


    No matter how capable he was, it was impossible for him to judge whether this was his child based on appearance alone.


    Even if the child didn''t look like his, what if?


    How to identify the child was something that made the usuallyposed him also panic.


    "Wang Caixiang has been taken away by the police station. I''m going there now," Pei Jing said in a low voice as he stood up to leave.


    Zhi Xia stopped him first, "Don''t go. Let everyone else leave first. I have something to tell you."


    The others didn''t quite understand what was going on between the two of them, but they didn''t dare to casually interfere.


    It was about the children, so Pei Jing was very anxious, but he knew that Zhi Xia had extraordinary abilities, so he thought she might have a way.


    Pei Jing turned to the people in the room, "You guys go out first. I need to talk to Zhi Xia."


    Zhou Nan still hesitated, wanting to ask what they were going to talk about, but An JingZhi pulled him out first.


    Pei Jing was no fool either, and since the baby swap, he had reacted the fastest. Since he said this, he must have his reasons.


    As for Zhi Xia, he discovered that although this daughter was not very obedient, she was more sober than all of them, showing no particrly strong emotional fluctuations even when she heard her baby had been swapped, not even as much of a reaction as Zhou Nan and the olddy.


    What An JingZhi didn''t know was that after Zhi Xia found out about this, her first reaction was to look at the child who had been brought back. When no one else noticed, she had already plucked somenugo from the baby''s head, mixed with her own hair, and put it in the trading device to give to the breeding magnate.


    The modern dimension she was in had more advanced medicine, so there was nothing better than doing a parent-child identification test to confirm whether or not there was a mother-child rtionship between her and the child.


    "Lock the door," Zhi Xia added after everyone had left.


    Pei Jing locked the door and turned around, only to find Zhi Xia''s figure gone from the hospital bed.


    In the space, Zhi Xia ate snow crystal fruit to recover while operating the trading device.


    "My son has been stolen by someone. Is there any way to help find him? I can pay star coins."


    [Host can choose to establish a bloodline connection to locate your child''s position at any time, and choose to recall them to the storage space thates with the trading device. Children who establish a bloodline connection can also share the right to enter the trading device with the host, but will not obtain the right to use it.]


    Zhi Xia checked that it cost 10,000 star coins per child, but she established bloodline connections with 5 children without hesitation. The star coins she had saved up recently were used up again.


    The panel suddenly switched, showing five children connected by a golden red beam of light, surrounding Zhi Xia in the middle.


    Since no information had been established yet, each child was only given a serial number.


    Zhi Xia chose the child ranked 3rd, not having time to consider whether the trading device was scamming her. She hurriedly chose to spend 1000 star coins to recall him.


    "Wah wah..." The child''s cry suddenly appeared in the room. Hearing the loud sound, it was easy to guess it was a healthy child.


    Only then did Zhi Xia show a relieved smile. She quickly turned around and trotted into the room.


    Lying on the soft big bed was a child wrapped in shabby ck cotton clothes, crying pitifully.


    A sudden heart-wrenching sensation filled her heart, and her nose felt sour too: the mother-child connection between them had taken effect.


    Unlike the other two, her first nce made her feel they were not like her own children, and she was full of doubts inside.


    Zhi Xia picked up the child. He was still crying non-stop, turning his little head left and right, babbling with his little mouth as if looking for something to eat.


    She lifted her shirt, remembering that she hadn''tctated yet.


    She quickly made some milk powder and the child drank it down with loud gulps. He sucked the milk bottle tightly, obviously starving. Soon his head was covered in ayer of thin sweat.


    After eating his fill, he fell asleep again.


    Zhi Xia put the milk bottle on the bedside table. Only then could she not hold back her tears.


    She tore off the child''s shabby clothes and wrapped him in a brand new small quilt before putting him on the bed to sleep.


    She returned to the trading device, "Can you tell me where the child was found? Besides Wang Caixiang, were there any other aplices involved in the baby swap?"


    [Host, I can provide the location where the child was found, but I cannot provide information about aplices. The trading device can only detect the ce where the child was transported back from, but cannot detect the nearby situation.]


    Although it could not provide that information, it showed that there were indeed aplices.


    There was enough star coins left for one more operation, so Zhi Xia chose to use it again.


    The trading device printed out a map of Jin Cheng, with a red dot marking the ce where the child was before being brought back.


    The location was not far from the hospital. Zhi Xia took the map out of the space.


    She also found that as she moved, the red dot on the map would move along,pletely eliminating the risks of her getting lost or not understanding the map.


    Although it was expensive, these star coins were indeed worthwhile.


    Pei Jing saw Zhi Xia disappear and knew she had gone into the space, but without her leading the way, he couldn''t get in by himself and could only anxiously wait for her in the room.


    After all, she had fed the child in the space and it took a full half an hour before she came out, still holding a piece of paper in her hand that looked like a map.


    "The child has been found and is in the space now," Zhi Xia said before Pei Jing could speak: "Wang Caixiang should have other aplices. Take this map with you now and follow the directions of the marked red dot to find them. You might be able to find the person who hid the child. If that person has already escaped, you will have to interrogate Wang Caixiang."


    For now, the child could only stay in the space. There was a crowd of people at the door, so she couldn''t make the child magically appear.


    As for the two children found in the room, returning one of them was good enough, but it was still unknown whose child the other one was.


    In any case, it couldn''t have been Wang Caixiang''s since she wasn''t pregnant.

 Chapter 217: Who Really Hurt Whom

    <h4>Chapter 217</h4>


    Pei Jing was handed a palm-sized map. Still feeling a little confused after hearing those words, he quickly reacted.


    Now was not the time. The most urgent thing was that he responded with an "En" and was about to leave, but after taking two steps, he turned back, "Can I go take a look at the child first?"


    That son of his who had encountered ups and downs in life just hours after being born, he still hadn''t even seen him yet.


    Zhi Xia went up to hold his hand. The scene before his eyes changed and they entered the space.


    The child was sleeping on the bed, asionally pouting his lips, not knowing if it was because he hadn''t eaten enough.


    "Zhi Xia, I''m sorry that you''ve just given birth and still have to worry about these things and can''t rest at ease." No matter how much more was said, what''s done was done, this was something Pei Jing had to admit, "Let''s go out."


    Zhi Xia knew he must not be feeling well either, and with things like this, it was what no one wanted.


    After leaving the space, Zhi Xia suddenly hugged him tightly, "Ah Jing, me and the kids will wait for you toe back."


    "En," Pei Jing nodded and rushed out the door.


    Those outside the door looked at each other, not daring toe in casually without hearing any voices.


    The olddy was the first to speak, "Zhi Xia must be the most ufortable right now. I''ll go in and take a look."


    In fact, not only was Zhi Xia ufortable, but all of them were.


    At least Zhi Xia knew the child had returned and was currently safe in the space, but others still didn''t know and could only continue to worry.


    An Zhiren was sent to treat his wounds. Although the external injuries looked serious, fortunately the scissors weren''t stabbed too deep and didn''t damage any internal organs.


    He was arranged in a ward hanging on an IV. Liu Jun came in with another policeman, secretly winking at him when no one else noticed.


    But when they walked to his hospital bed, they once again became serious.


    "Comrade An, we''vee to find out about what happened. Is it convenient to talk about what happened now?"


    "Of course it''s convenient." An Zhiren nodded, looking rather tired.


    Liu Jun had already heard a lot about the child swap from others, but still listened to An Zhiren tell it again. The recorder behind him recorded it down with pen and paper.


    After listening to him finish, Liu Jun said, "If what you said is true, then Wang Caixiang will be involved in child abduction and intentional injury, as well as attempted murder. But I still need to ask, after you arrived at Wang Caixiang''s ce, who made the first move between you two? Also, was the injury on Wang Caixiang''s palm intentionally stabbed by you with scissors?"


    An Zhiren''s gaze darkened slightly as he replied, "Because of the divorce, things were not pleasant between me and Wang Caixiang. And because Wang Caixiang''s cousin Li Xiu was also hospitalized and about to give birth, I suspected the child had been swapped when I first thought of her. It was also because she had a strong vindictive streak and had threatened me viciously before the divorce. At that time, I was also somewhat agitated, so when I went in, I pressed her against the table. Then I heard a baby crying in the room, so I let her go and wanted to go into the room to take a look. I didn''t expect her to rush at me with scissors. When I looked back, the scissors happened to stab into my chest. Fortunately, I reacted quickly and managed to snatch the scissors. Then she still refused to let it go and we started wrestling. I lost a lot of blood, I felt very dizzy at the time, while she was very frenzied..."


    "So you wanted to kill her with the scissors first, but only injured her hand?" The recorder''s sudden questioning made the other three people startled.


    An Zhiren quickly reacted and smiled bitterly, "How is that possible? Murder is against thew. How could I, a teacher, ever have such thoughts? And I was already seriously injured at the time. I could only warn her that murder is a crime, but I didn''t expect her to stop entangling with me. Instead, she picked up the scissors and stabbed her own hand, then yelled outside that I was trying to kill her..."


    That was indeed what happened. At most, he had switched the order of events.


    And he did not intend to kill Wang Caixiang either, at most he wanted to force her to reveal the whereabouts of the child.


    Liu Jun promptly stood up, "Alright, we basically understand what happened. There may still be ces where we need your cooperation afterwards when interrogating Wang Caixiang. It''s possible there will be a continuing need for you to cooperate."


    An Zhiren and An ZhiXian still didn''t know that the new child they found was not the one they were looking for, so they felt rtively at ease at the moment and both nodded, saying they would definitely cooperate.


    After leaving the ward, Liu Jun asked the recorder behind him, "What''s wrong with you? Do you know how much leading tendency exists in that question you just asked?"


    If An Erge hadn''t reacted in time for a moment back then, or if his mind had stalled for a bit, it would have been possible for him to take the mistake onto himself.


    "I just asked casually." The recorder still felt Liu Jun was being unusually reasonable today, "Oh yes, Group Leader Liu, do you know that person just now?"


    "He was my high school teacher, but he didn''t teach my grade. I''ve seen him at school twice, can''t say I know him. However, their family patriarch is quite well-known too. He participated in the War of Resistance back then. He even dissipated his family fortune to support the front lines and donated nes and cannons to the country. Back when I was still in school, I heard his eldest brother had also joined the army. For a family like this, their character should not be problematic." The one he knew was An Xiaosi, but could he say this?


    Fortunately, An Xiaosi had joined the army. Over the years, the two of them asionally exchanged letters, and he hadn''t had much contact with An''s family. So others didn''t know about this rtionship either.


    Otherwise, as an acquaintance, he would have had to recuse himself from this case.


    An Zhiang had perfectly interpreted that saying. Brothers were everywhere, and although he wasn''t at home, the rtionships he had built up back then were still helpful.


    In the ward, An ZhiXian looked at An Zhiren, "Second brother, could it be that injury on your body was deliberate?"


    With their several brothers all having practiced before, he didn''t quite believe that Wang Caixiang, a woman, could have injured second brother like this,.


    An Zhiren just smiled, clearly not denying it.


    It was him who had injured Wang Caixiang. When he couldn''t find the child, he was anxious and threatened like that.


    If it were a few years ago, he might still have had some concerns. But after entanglements with Wang Caixiang for so many years, he had been somewhat influenced by her.


    An Zhiren was no longer the gentle and refined youth he used to be. There was even some unspeakable darkness, which was the real reason he was eager to get rid of Wang Caixiang.


    He still had some sanity left and didn''t want to be assimted by Wang Caixiang into bing a bad person. That woman wasn''t worth him ruining himself either.


    He wasn''t afraid that Wang Caixiang would not admit to the crime. Her switching the babies was a fact. And because of that, another child had died. There was that nurse and Li Xiu who could testify. As long as this charge held up, no matter how she defended herself, the slight injury on his body could be easily seen through.


    "Oh yes, third brother, this injury should be under your jurisdiction right? I feel like my injury is quite serious and I want to stay in the hospital for a couple more days." An Zhiren reminded An ZhiXian.


    No matter what, he had to establish his victim status.


    No, he should say, he was the victim to begin with, and not just him, his whole family was.


    The more serious his injury seemed, the less Wang Caixiang would be able to justify herself.


    An ZhiXian helplessly stood up, "Then you just rest well. I''ll go take a look at my little sister. That child looked a little unhealthy being held. I just hope the child is fine."


    "En, you go ahead. If there''s nothing wrong, let them go home early. Your hospital really isn''t safe. Also, don''t mention my injury for the time being. At this critical juncture, just taking good care of my little sister and the child will do. After all, it''s not a big deal for me." An Zhiren urged him.


    Pei Jing held the palm-sized map and left the hospital. He was rtively familiar with this area, and he recognized the marked location at a nce.

 Chapter 218: The Man Behind the Curtain

    <h4>Chapter 218</h4>


    Going north to the end of the street and turning around two corners, this used to be the most prosperous area in Jincheng, where local famous officials, nobles and country squires lived.


    An''s old house was located here.


    But in recent years, a big fire swept through several mansions here, and this area gradually declined, leaving only a few abandoned yards neglected.


    It was a good ce to hide, though.


    Pei Jing ran all the way at the fastest speed.


    Just ahead were the ruins of dpidated walls and broken walls, and the sign on the map was among these ruins.


    He didn''t stop, but kept running inside. He suddenly bumped into someone around the corner of the broken wall.


    The not-so-big collision didn''t cause him any impact. On the contrary, the other party fell to the ground.


    Pei Jing looked down. The person on the ground was wrapped up very tightly, with hair tucked tightly under a headscarf, showing only a pair of eyes from head to toe.


    But the other person had their head down and Pei Jing didn''t see their face.


    The other party''s reaction was slightly panicky. They got up from the ground slowly, as if they were injured by the collision. After getting up, they still didn''t raise their head, bending over as if in pain, just wanting to get around him and leave.


    Pei Jing''s eyes caught the dark blood stains on the ground. His pupils shrank as he reached out to grab the other person''s arm, "Comrade, you''re hurt!"


    At that moment, the person reached out to scratch Pei Jing''s eyes, but he dodged by tilting his head and subdued the person forcefully.


    "You are also an aplice in Wang Caixiang''s baby swap, aren''t you?" Pei Jing''s eyes were fierce as he asked coldly, "You don''t have to deny it. If I wasn''t sure, I wouldn''t have been able to find this ce. Let me advise you to tell the truth yourself, don''t try anything with me."


    Pei Jing could clearly feel the other person''s body stiffen, with a muffled moan from their throat, as if in great pain.


    He pulled off the other person''s headscarf and face scarf, and a familiar face came into view, which surprised him the most.


    It was Shen Hongmei who unexpectedly appeared here.


    She was much thinner than her former plump figure. Her cheekbones protruded on her pale face. Cold sweat kept dripping down her body as she curled up in pain.


    "Pei Jing, yes, I swapped your baby to save you. You still don''t know that your wife is a monster and her child is too..." Shen Hongmei seemed to be in more pain. She wanted to speak but was stuck with words as her face twisted in pain, unable to continue.


    She knew An ZhiXia was capable. Otherwise she couldn''t have taken away the system that controlled her and harmed her step by step to this point.


    By now, Shen Hongmei had long forgotten that she was the one who was eager for the system to disappear at first because she didn''t want to be controlled anymore.


    It was just thatter she couldn''t bear the great pain of losing the system after enjoying the gains withoutbor for so long. She didn''t want to make efforts by herself either, which soon led to her current situation.


    Waves of stabbing pain kepting from her belly and massive bleeding down there. But she was reluctant to die. The only one who could save her was Pei Jing who still had her hands twisted behind her back.


    She arduously turned her head to ask him for help. "I don''t want to die. Save me, please... The child is not with me either. He disappeared, disappeared suddenly. He is not human at all. He is a monster..."


    It would be impossible for normal humans to have the ability to disappear out of thin air.


    Shen Hongmei couldn''t forget the tremendous fright when the little cub was handed to her by Wang Caixiang and kept crying. Not daring to let others hear, she had to hide in this uninhabited ce and put him aside to let him cry since no one could hear him here.


    The little cub, probably very hungry, kept turning his head looking for food. When he couldn''t find food, he cried loudly again.


    Thinking of how An ZhiXia had harmed her like this, watching this scene, Shen Hongmei felt happy in her heart. She even kept putting her finger to his mouth to seduce him, and when he opened his mouth, she removed her finger again.


    All of a sudden, right in front of her eyes, the child disappeared. She watched in astonishment as he disappeared.


    Shen Hongmei was scared to death at that time. She sat on the ground for a long time, unable to move. After recovering a littleter, she searched around over and over again.


    She thought that perhaps she was not in good spirits these days and hallucinated, so she saw it wrong. The child must have been hidden by her and was still somewhere around here instead of leaving.


    It had taken her so much effort to secretly exchange the child. How could he disappear suddenly?


    But however hard she looked around, she couldn''t find him. She just wanted to get away quickly in case she got caught, which would be bad.


    Shen Hongmei was also unlucky that she happened to run into Pei Jing who came just two minutester to catch her. Otherwise, she might have gotten away even two minutes earlier.


    Pei Jing believed that the child did disappear suddenly, after all the child was in An ZhiXia''s space now.


    But Shen Hongmei also knew about this incident, which made Pei Jing feel somewhat awkward.


    As a soldier, he had his own moral ethics and it was impossible for him to privately resolve or harm other people''s lives by illegal means.


    But Shen Hongmei knew a bit too much. If he sent her to the police station, she might talk nonsense.


    However, reality didn''t give him much time to consider. Shen Hongmei''s body convulsed once. Arge amount of blood gushed from her lower body, soaking her pants and dripping onto the ground, which was shocking...


    Life seemed to be slipping away. A sh of white light shed before Shen Hongmei''s eyes. She even had hallucinations, but she felt so reluctant. "Pei Jing, why is this fair? I liked you first, but you married An ZhiXia instead. She deceived me. She took away what belonged to me and was unwilling to return it, which led me to my current situation. Pei Jing, don''t you think how reluctant I feel? If only I could have married you. You are a lucky man. No matter who marries you, they are destined to have a good life. But I don''t have that kind of luck. All I want now is just one child of yours. I would raise him well. He would also be a lucky person, and I would be the mother of a lucky person. Don''t you think so?"


    She selfishly believed that the child of a lucky person couldn''t be too bad. As long as she raised him, he would recognize her as his mother. The good days toe would just be a matter of time.


    Shen Hongmei''s purpose was that simple. From beginning to end, all she wanted was a good life.


    She once had this opportunity, but she was too greedy. She wanted gains withoutbor and didn''t want to hurt those around her. So she chose to hurt herself instead.


    But now she regretted it. She should have been more selfish. No matter how well others lived, it was ultimately irrelevant to her. But because she lost the system, she pushed herself step by step towards hell.


    Selfish people may asionally give off some kindness when they have everything, but they absolutely don''t want that one act of kindness to threaten their own interests.


    Shen Hongmei felt she was stupid. She regretted it, but An ZhiXia didn''t give her the right to regret.


    This was the first time Pei Jing had heard of the term "lucky person", but he could understand its meaning.


    ...


    In the hospital, Shen Hongmei was sent for emergency treatment. She had suffered massive bleeding due to earlybor and exhaustion. Her life was in critical condition and it was uncertain whether she could be saved.

 Chapter 219: Loud at Midnight

    <h4>Chapter 219</h4>


    The night was dark. Pei Jing hurried back to the delivery room.


    The items had already been packed up, and his two children had also been taken home to be looked after. Only Zhi Xia still insisted on staying behind to wait for Pei Jing toe back.


    The couple exchanged a nce, and Pei Jing nodded. Zhi Xia understood��they had caught the perpetrator.


    An ZhiXian and Pei JianGuo were still there, along with those two other families'' children.


    The bigger child was Li Xiusheng, Wang Caixiang''s cousin. That woman had initially agreed with the baby swap n, but after giving birth to a son herself, she felt there was no longer any need.


    Her selfishness had provided Wang Caixiang with an opportunity.


    The police likely wouldn''t detain her, but the neighborhoodmittee and ideological educationmittees would certainly put her through reeducation, which was punishment enough.


    The smaller child was clearly premature, with purple-reddish skin that did not look healthy.


    The most pitiable was the baby girl who had died from being drugged. ording to Wang Caixiang''s confession, the newborn girl had been abandoned at the hospital entrance and happened to be picked up by her.


    Preferences for sons over daughters weremon enough that abandoning infant girls did happen from time to time. The police were checking the maternity records over the past few days for families who had given birth to girls, in hopes of locating the child''s biological parents for education.


    "Uncle, what should we do with these two kids? We still can''t confirm which one is really ours." Pei JianGuo and the others still didn''t know that neither of these children were the right one.


    Pei Jing walked over to take a look. Shen Hongmei was still undergoing emergency treatment. The police had contacted the child''s father, Fu Yunqi, toe pick him up, but in the meantime, they hoped Pei Jing''s family could help look after the child.


    Without any hesitation, Pei Jing had refused.


    After everything that had happened, asking them to care for Shen Hongmei''s child was simply uneptable, not just for Zhi Xia who had just given birth, but also for Pei Jing as a victim.


    "The hospital will be responsible for the smaller child. We''ll have our people watch him temporarily while waiting for the father toe get him," said Pei Jing. Then he asked, "Has the father of the bigger childe by?"


    "He came to ask for the child in the afternoon, but we didn''t let him take the baby. He hasn''t been back since." On the surface the man had seemed concerned about his child, but in reality, he didn''t seem as caring as one would expect. In short, something seemed off.


    If someone was truly anxious about their child, they should be standing guard no matter what, not afraid that others might snatch their baby away.


    As An ZhiXian finished speaking, the realization struck her. Frowning, she asked, "What''s going on? Could neither of these children be the right one?"


    Pei Jing hesitated briefly before nodding. "We''ve found the child. He hasn''t been brought back yet. The hospital staff and the parents wille soon, then they can take these two children away separately."


    "No need to keep waiting then. We can take them over right now," said An ZhiXian, clicking her tongue. These two kids weren''t easy to take care of, and they weren''t her family''s children anyway, so getting them back sooner rather thanter would make things easier.


    Pei JianGuo shared her sentiment. Naturally, Pei Jing would not object.


    As they were leaving, An ZhiXian asked him, "Although there''s no issue with my sister-inw leaving the hospital now, I feel keeping her overnight for observation would still be best. After all, she delivered triplets, which takes a major toll on the body."


    Shen Hongmei��s severe postpartum hemorrhage after two days still weighed on Pei Jing��s mind. He nodded. "Sounds good. I''ll stay here with her. You guys take the babies and just focus on your own matters, no need to keep watch here anymore."


    In another hospital room, An Zhiren was still staying. An ZhiXian also didn''t n on going home. She intended to keep her second brotherpany through the night tonight. Plus the hospital room had two beds anyway, plenty of room for both of them.


    An Zhiren still needed IV fluids overnight. His injuries weren''t severe, but he had lost quite a bit of blood. Leaving him unattended was out of the question.


    After everyone else left, Pei Jing finally sighed in relief and went to close the room door.


    "How are you feeling?" He had been rushing around ever since the afternoon and only just now sat down to rest, so Pei Jing was exhausted as well.


    "I''m fine. Help me get up," said Zhi Xia. Over the course of that afternoon whenever no one else was watching, she had eaten quite a few snow crystal fruits, which were very effective in helping her recover. However, there were some limitations.


    Eating one or two fruits produced a pronounced effect. Beyond that, no further benefits could be observed.


    As long as she was all right, Pei Jing felt relieved as well.


    The sight of Shen Hongmei''s severe bleeding had left him apprehensive. He had always known that for women, childbirth was nearly escaping death''s door. But since bearing children was amon part of marital rtions, he had only ever felt sympathy at how difficult it was for her without considering the risks.


    This time, it made Pei Jing determined instead.


    Five children were plenty enough. Just having these few would suffice, no more in the future.


    Moreover, Zhi Xia''s constitution was clearly very fertile, twice delivering multiple births. If she kept having litters of 8 or 10 children as some families did, Pei Jing himself would be frightened.


    "Do you need to use the restroom?" Pei Jing carried her off the bed. "Just tell me anything you need, and I''ll take you there."


    "No, I wanted to go out with you for a bit," said Zhi Xia. "We can''t keep leaving the baby in our dimension space forever. We have to take him out for everyone to know he''s been found, otherwise how will we exinter where we located him from? Take advantage of Shen Hongmei still being unconscious. We have all the authority now to decide matters as we see fit. Once she wakes up, it''ll be much harder for us to rify where this child suddenly appeared from."


    Saying they found the child together with Shen Hongmei when they brought her in for emergency care but temporarily entrusted his care to others in their haste would help confirm her crimes.


    As for whatever Shen Hongmei might say after regaining consciousness, as a criminal with ulterior motives, others would only see it as her making excuses.


    A child vanishing in broad daylight? Without seeing it themselves, how many people would actually believe that?


    That was Pei Jing''s initial line of thinking too, but he also felt quite apologetic toward Zhi Xia.


    She had just given birth and should have been resting, yet due to his carelessness, she had to drag her postpartum body around apanying him in his anxiety and busyness.


    It was his fault, and apologies meant little when said too many times until theycked sincerity.


    In any case, they had managed to locate the child, which was the silver lining.


    Pei Jing carried Zhi Xia out of the hospital and into a deserted corner to retrieve their son from the dimension space.


    On the return trip, Pei Jing held his son while Zhi Xia walked at an unhurried pace chosen to amodate her condition.


    The ordeal could be considered over and done with now.


    Pei Jing was reluctant to let go of the child in his arms, who seemed more and more good-looking the more he looked��not any child from another family couldpare.


    Zhi Xia had fallen back asleep. Even for someone with great abilities, an iron constitution still needed rest.


    Loud, raucous noises suddenly erupted from next door. Having just woken from her nap not long ago, Zhi Xia groggily opened her eyes.


    Meanwhile, the baby slept deeply without moving an inch, only asionally smacking his lips.


    "Did the noise wake you?" Pei Jing got up to tuck her quilt snugly. "I''ll go see what''s happening."


    It turned out to be Zhang Zhi''s family arguing with the hospital staff. He was Wang Caixiang��s cousin and brother-inw.


    After this baby swap incident urring right when they came to deliver their child, Zhang Zhi felt uneasy about the entire situation.


    Moreover, looking at the baby who had been returned to them, he suddenly developed strange doubts��what if this child wasn''t of his seed either?


    After all, newborns were difficult to identify urately, and so many babies had been switched around and shuffled between different hands. Just that afternoon, they were told this child might not be his, yet that night the infant was handed back to them, imed as his own.


    Without definitive proof, he couldn''t simply ept what others said at face value.


    Zhang Zhi felt awful at the possibility that the hard-awaited son might not actually be his own blood. His resentment even extended toward his wife, Li Xiu.


    Furthermore, he wanted the hospital to take responsibility. Things couldn''t just end like this.


    Yet the hospital staff med his family instead. After all, Li Xiu had participated in the baby swap scheme too. She only refrained from subsequent actions because she happened to bear a son. If she had birthed a daughter, she doubtless would have wanted to trade for someone else''s son.


    The hospital hadn''t even demanded ountability from them yet, but here Zhang Zhi was kicking up a row first.


    Once again, the police were called out in the dead of night.

 Chapter 220: Every step Wrong, Every step Wrong.

    <h4>Chapter 220</h4>


    To put it bluntly, Zhang Zhi just wanted somepensation, after all this incident happened in the hospital, and the hospital also had some responsibility for inadequate supervision. But what he didn''t expect was that as a family member of the person involved in the incident, no one was pursuing their responsibility because they hadn''t gotten around to it yet. The more trouble he caused, the more difficult Li Xiu''s situation would be.


    Liu Jun had resolved the contradictions between Zhang Zhi and the hospital. He had already decided to report to the local neighborhoodmittee at dawn, so that subsequent issues could be handled by the neighborhoodmittee.


    In the middle of the night, having received a temporary assignment, he was also extremely tired. Just as he was thinking of going back with his partner to rest, he looked up and saw Pei Jing in the hallway as well.


    Back when he was following An ZhiAng, he had run into Pei Jing asionally, and called him "Uncle Pei" at that time.


    But time had passed, and after a few short years, meeting again, it would be inappropriate to call him uncle.


    "Comrade Pei, Wang Caixiang''s testimony is out. I happened to run into you today, do you have time to chat, so that we don''t have toe find you again tomorrow?" Of course, this was just an excuse, since Shen Hongmei was still undergoing emergency treatment at the hospital.


    After Shen Hongmei was rescued, she would definitely need to provide another testimony.


    Pei Jing was not present when Liu Jun came to investigate, but he had heard from his familyter about the police involvement.


    In response to his inquiry, Pei Jing nodded, "Then I''ll have to trouble the policerade."


    Although Liu Jun recognized him, Pei Jing didn''t really have any impression of Liu Jun.


    After all, they hadst met several years ago. Pei Jing had a bigger reputation. Liu Jun must have heard An ZhiAng mention him in front of himself many times, so his impression was definitely deeper.


    But for Pei Jing, Liu Jun was just An ZhiAng''s friend, they had only met once briefly, and he didn''t take it to heart.


    Liu Jun looked back at his partner and said, "I''m going to confirm the process of finding the child again with the family member. It''ste into the night, if you''re tired go back and rest first, don''t wait for me."


    The partner who hade with him this time was no longer yesterday''s recorder, and was clearly more capable.


    Liu Jun was able to get a job at the police station without anyone''s help, and in just a few short years he had been promoted to team leader. Aside from the few big credits An ZhiXia had provided for him, he was quite capable himself. Whether colleagues or subordinates, they would give him some face.


    After his partner left, Pei Jing invited Liu Jun, "Comrade police officer, let''s go over here. My wife is still in the hospital with the child, and I can''t go too far either."


    Liu Jun nodded, he understood.


    Not far from the delivery room entrance, Pei Jing could turn his head to see An ZhiXia''s ward. The two stood facing each other here.


    Liu Jun got straight to the point without any extra nonsense, "ording to Wang Caixiang''s testimony, she was threatened by Shen Hongmei. At present, she has pushed all the charges onto Shen Hongmei, but the specific situation still needs to be determined after Shen Hongmei wakes up..."


    "There is also the issue of Shen Hongmei''s motives, as well as your grievances, which should be inquired about again tomorrow when taking another statement."


    How Shen Hongmei threatened Wang Caixiang, Liu Jun did not borate on too much, because it was not very honorable.


    After Shen Hongmei and Fu Yunqi left the troops, that was when they truly stepped into hell.


    Fu Yunqi was not an honest person to begin with. Relying on his bit of talent, he fooled around outside quite a lot.


    At first Shen Hongmei would still quarrel and yell at him, but after taking a few beatings, she also realized her ce. Adding to the exploitation from her inws, as well as her gradually fading beauty, she had no choice but to face reality.


    She was no longer the bright and dazzling Shen Hongmei of the past.


    One misstep leads to another.


    From the moment she felt pity for her sister whose marriage was ruined because of her, and heartache for her mentally handicapped nephew, her fate today was already sealed.


    And the root cause of all this was An ZhiXia. If she did not have that ability to take away her trading system, she would not have fallen to where she was today.


    Every time she was abused and beaten, Shen Hongmei''s heart grew darker. She even came to hate her own sister and nephew.


    Finally, when she was six to seven months pregnant, and had been stripped naked and tied up in the room for a whole night, Shen Hongmei could no longer endure it.


    She understood that the only ones who could save her now were her sister and brother-inw. Carrying the few cents Fu Yunqi had drunkenly taken from his pocket, she secretly went to the post office and called Shen Hongxing, only to find out An ZhiXia was pregnant with triplets again and had already returned to her hometown to give birth.


    At that time, a sinister idea surged in her mind.


    Why did she live so miserably while An ZhiXia could be so happy?


    Shen Hongmei had known early on that Pei Jing was an important figure in Jincheng. She stole money from the Mu family and spent several days nning. Braving danger, she secretly snuck onto a train to get to Jincheng without anyone finding out.


    When she first arrived in Jincheng, she waspletely unfamiliar with her surroundings. Relying solely on her hatred, she was determined to make An ZhiXia pay a price.


    And by pure coincidence, she had seen the news about the daughter of the university president An Jingzhi being switched in a newspaper from several years ago, the protagonist being precisely An ZhiXia.


    It was this news that gave her inspiration.


    Based on this point, she staked out the An family residence for several days before finding someone there she could take advantage of, which was the equally pitiful Wang Caixiang.


    She tempted Wang Caixiang to agree to divorce An Zhiren in retaliation against the An family, so that An Zhiren would regret it for life.


    Shen Hongmei deliberately left her own child with Wang Caixiang. Her premature baby was small in size and probably wouldn''t be too different from the triplets.


    She had calcted that even if something went wrong with the n, Pei Jing would at most find the child with Wang Caixiang, and would absolutely not think of how her own son had already been taken away by herself.


    Wang Caixiang hated the An family to the extreme, and would not speak out. As for herself, she could slip awaypletely with her son in hand, leaving him to be raised by An ZhiXia.


    In fact her scheme was very good. Without the aid of An ZhiXia''s trading system, even if they suspected something was off with the children, without evidence and the medical technology at the time being incapable of using the naked eye to determine authenticity, they would be unable to prove anything.


    Even in the worst case scenario where they managed to locate all the children, how would they be able to distinguish who they had given birth to themselves?


    Actually Shen Hongmei was not stupid at all, it''s just that selfishness concealed her true nature.


    If she had devoted the kind of mind she used for evil deeds into life or career instead, perhaps she would not have ended up in her current foolish state. But she just had to focus her cleverness solely on misdeeds, which ultimately only harmed others and herself.


    Liu Jun''s words clearly had the motive of giving him a reminder. Pei Jing understood that.


    Now it depended on whether Shen Hongmei could be saved.

 Chapter 221: Hidden Meaning

    <h4>Chapter 221</h4>


    The sudden cry of the child pulled Pei Jing''s mind back. He said, "Sorry for the trouble today, officer Liu. I have to go back to check on my child. I won''t be able to send you off."


    "It''s fine. Let''s meet again tomorrow." Liu Jun understandingly nodded.


    In the delivery room, Zhi Xia was just sitting there.


    Pei Jing pushed the door open and heard her say, "The baby peed and pooped."


    With tears that were about to fall in her eyes, her frowning appearance looked rather pitiful. The baby''s poop smelled so bad. Since the two of them slept close together, some of it even got onto the clothes around her waist.


    The coolness felt a little ufortable.


    "Let me take care of it. You lie down," Pei Jing hurriedly got some hot water toe over. Since the weather was too cold, he couldn''tpletely uncover the quilt. He could only change the baby under the quilt.


    The little one was sleeping soundly. Other than whimpering twice at the beginning, he looked like he was enjoying it afterward.


    Zhi Xia also changed her clothes. Pei Jing pulled over a chair to sit beside her, and the two talked about Wang Caixiang and Shen Hongmei��s matters.


    "Also, the police wille over again tomorrow to take statements. We probably won''t be able to go back until noon," Pei Jing said, "That Officer Liu seems to be very helpful to us."


    Zhi Xia smiled and said to him, "He is my fourth brother''s friend. When we weren''t married yet, my fourth brother had to go enlist in the military. He was worried about me being alone in Jincheng, so he specifically told Liu Jun to take care of me. It''s been a few years unknowingly. I didn''t expect that he has be a policeman now."


    Only then did Pei Jing understand why Liu Jun was so enthusiastic. Turns out they knew each other.


    In the quiet of the night, there was a unique smell of the hospital.


    In the second half of the night, the wind suddenly started blowing. The tree branches outside swayed left and right with dark shadows.


    Not long after, heavy rain started pouring down with pitter-patter sounds that disturbed dreams.


    Early morning next day, An ZhiXian came over with a trace of a refreshing smile hovering over her lips. Her originally cool temperament seemed even more aloof.


    "Third Brother, you came so early?"


    Zhi Xia was already awake. Pei Jing made her wash up and was making milk powder for the baby.


    Anyway, the milk was not enough for three kids. They simply stopped breastfeeding altogether to avoid the pain of weaningter.


    "Second Brother was injured yesterday and is getting IV fluids at the hospital. So I didn''t go back," An ZhiXian said, "I came to tell you guys something. Shen Hongmei passed awayst night after unsessful resuscitation."


    It was retribution for her evil deeds. But it was a pity for her newborn who had just lost his mother on top of being a premature birth.


    However, on second thoughts, it might not necessarily be a bad thing. Even if Shen Hongmei lived, she would have to pay the price for her actions, which was not good for the child either.


    Upon hearing about Shen Hongmei��s death, Zhi Xia was neither sad nor happy. But she clearly knew that with the other party''s death, the matter about the system has thoroughly ended.


    People really shouldn''t do too much evil.


    Originally, even after losing the system, she could still have a good life since she had umted wealth and connections from the system.


    Yet now, she has instead met her own destruction through her deeds, which was really hateful yet pitiful.


    "How did Second Brother get injured? Hope it''s not serious," Zhi Xia asked An ZhiXian.


    An ZhiXian rubbed his nose, lying rather awkwardly, "Just some skin punctured on his chest. Can''t be considered serious. Wang Caixiang was also injured. Second Brother wants to stay in the hospital for a few more days."


    As for the underlying meaning, there was no need to spell it out. Those who understand will understand.


    The injury was not critical but couldn''t be considered minor either. After all, scissors had been stabbed into his chest even if no organs were harmed.


    They chose to conceal it for fear that Zhi Xia would worry if she knew.


    Breakfast was brought over by Zhou Nan. It was crystal clear rice porridge, stir fried bean sprouts, and two boiled eggs.


    Zhou Nan was hugging the child she had just found back, unable to conceal the smile on her face.


    One look was enough to tell how beautiful this child was, truly like one from their family.


    Not daring to ask in front of Zhi Xia, Zhou Nan asked Pei Jing in a low voice, "Are you certain this time? Surely she can''t be the wrong child again?"


    Pei Jing knew she was traumatized by yesterday��s incident so he gave her a definite answer, "This is the one. Definitely not mistaken."


    "That''s good to know, that''s good to know." Zhou Nan hugged the baby for a while before putting her back on the bed.


    Her gaze kept shifting to Zhi Xia as she opened her mouth, seemingly wanting to say something but somehow unable to get it out.


    Until her eyes met Zhi Xia��s when she asked, "Mom, is there something you want to tell me?"


    "Actually there''s nothing much. Just wanted to ask if you guys have decided on names for the children? All of a sudden there are three babies. Can''t keep calling them all Baby. There should be names to tell them apart, right?" What Zhou Nan said sounded normal but her expression was rather awkward.


    After Zhi Xia finished her porridge and put down her bowl, she smiled and said, "The names have been decided. I''ll tell everyone when we get home."


    "As long as the names are ready. Nothing else then." Zhou Nan mumbled before keeping silent.


    After Zhi Xia finished breakfast, Pei Jing took care of the leftovers.


    He didn''t let Zhou Nan do anything. Instead, he went to wash the thermal sk and bowls clean.


    When he came back in, Zhi Xia was half-reclining on the bed with a vacant look in her eyes, seemingly lost in thoughts. Zhou Nan was looking at the baby, chatting to her now and then despite no response from the sleeping child.


    "Pei Jing, when do you n to go back? Otherwise I��lle get this childter. It��ll be easier than you having to take care of the mother and child but unable to cope," Zhou Nan tidied up the baby''s nkets as she spoke. It was evident how delighted she was with the child. "Don''t worry. The other two are being well taken care of. Your dad and sister-inw are free these days to help out too. Chenye and Wanqing are doing fine as well. They just miss their daddy and mommy these two days. Even insisted oning along with me this morning. I didn''t have free hands so I promised to bring them over if you guys don''te back by noon before they let me go..."


    Zhou Nan rambled on slowly about trivial matters concerning the few children.


    Pei Jing exined the situation to her and told her not to bother sending lunch overter. If things go as expected, they would be able to go back by noon.


    Moreover, he knew Zhi Xia had food here. Taking care of so many children was already tough enough without needing her to run back and forth.


    After staying for a while, Zhou Nan left. Second Brother was also hospitalized. Despite iming his injuries were not serious, he still said he would stay in the hospital for several more days. She came prepared with spare clothes for a few days. As for meals, Third Brother said it was settled without needing her to worry.


    These two days have been quite exhausting for her. With Liu Ling looking after Wen Qing and the Chenye siblings, she and An JingZhi were taking care of the two little ones.


    In name it may seem so but in reality, it was all on her alone - changing soiled diapers again and again, preparing milk form to feed... Men were of no help at all. Even a simple task of washing pee-stained diapers was too much to ask of them.


    The elderly folks at home were too old to rely on as well. Just that one night was enough to drain her.


    After Zhou Nan left, Pei Jing asked Zhi Xia, "You must have sensed what my mom was trying to convey. My mom passed early. Dad is getting on in years too. Sister-inw Liu will be going back home at night. Bringing two little ones around is no easy feat either. That one night has truly exhausted my mom."

 Chapter 222: The Knot Still doesn鈥檛 Open

    <h4>Chapter 222</h4>


    ��Speak your mind directly,�� Pei Jing said. After getting along for a few years, they understood each other to some extent.


    Pei Jing looked straight at her. In her eyes, there seemed to be ayer of mist, blurry, so that one could not see the bottom of her heart.


    With just one nce, Pei Jing knew her heart knot was still not untied.


    ��I just feel she''s not easy either. Look at the birth of these children, she was busy before and after every time, and I heard her health has not been good since that hospitalization...�� The rest went unsaid but the meaning was clear.


    Pei Jing did not force her either, just gave some advice and persuaded her.


    After all, they were rtives. No matter how big the disagreements Zhou Nan and An Jingzhi had in the past, they have been trying their best these past few years.


    Even if they were not by her side, they would often send things to the children.


    He had never mentioned An Jia��s matters in front of her before. It was only this once, as he saw Zhou Nan��s haggard state and felt she was truly pitiful.


    Zhi Xia fell silent.


    She could see Zhou Nan��s dedication.


    And her conscience would not let her say that it was all voluntary.


    But she was also afraid. Afraid that after giving her true heart, what she would get in return was still harm.


    Was it not good that everyone just got along inly, with no one able to hurt anyone?


    Pei Jing gave Zhi Xia time to think it over, knowing of her inner turmoil, and did not push her.


    Because everyone knew Zhou Nan had it hard, but the biggest victim in this matter was still Zhi Xia.


    The harm she had suffered in her childhood were pains that would stay with her for life.


    There was a knock on the door. Pei Jing called out, "Come in."


    Liu Jun and his colleagues pushed the door open with solemn looks, not a trace of familiarity on their faces.


    Having learned from Pei Jing yesterday that they would be discharged today, Liu Jun hade over as soon as he started work.


    Shen Hongmei��s rescue had failed. That made things much easier.


    After all, it had only been Pei Jing and Shen Hongmei at that time. Wang Caixiang had already identified Shen Hongmei. The charges were confirmed. As for Shen Hongmei��s purpose of sacrificing her own child to rece Zhi Xia��s, as well as the grievances between Zhi Xia and Shen Hongmei, it depended on what the couple said.


    Zhi Xia barely said anything, only answering a couple sentences when asked about herself. Pei Jing handled the rest.


    Afterwards, Liu Jun and the others left.


    The room fell quiet again.


    "It''s over now. Let''s get ready and go home?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "Mm," Zhi Xia nodded.


    "Then you two wait here for a bit. I''ll go pay the fees."


    Zhi Xia nodded again.


    After a long while, she felt a shadow fall over her face with her eyes closed. Opening them, she saw him standing silently at her bedside, gazing at her.


    Zhi Xia was shocked. "What''s wrong?"


    Wasn''t he going to pay the fees? Why wasn''t he moving?


    Pei Jing closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, they werepletely clear.


    He bent down, his lips gently touching her forehead and lingering for a moment. Then he said gently, "What I just said was careless. Don''t feel burdened or overthink it. If you''re unwilling, then forget it. Your own happiness is most important."


    In his childhood, he had received much care from Old Master Pei. An Jingzhi was much older than him, so their rtionship had always been quite good.


    Back then life was difficult. It could be said that without An Jia��s help, he simply would not have survived.


    But that was his own business and should not shackle Zhi Xia.


    "It''s not that I''m unwilling." Zhi Xia sighed. From an outsider��s perspective, although Zhou Nan and An Jingzhi were at fault before, it was not to an unforgivable extent. As for the tragedies in her past life, those were ultimately only her experiences.


    "Pei Jing, when I first found out I wasn''t Gao Jia��s child, I also hopefully thought of finding my biological parents. But you know what, when my biological father first saw me and named me An Meixia, I knew they might not be able to love me as I wished, just as I couldn''t give them the peace they wanted..."


    So she could ept Third Brother naming Wan Qing, but firmly said the name was already picked when Zhou Nan asked her about their child��s name.


    Pei Jing was taken aback.


    Because of the child swap, they had forgotten about An Meixia and Zhao Runze.


    The sudden mention made him recall that Zhi Xia had gotten angry at him for looking for Zhao Runze before she gave birth.


    His stance grew awkward as he unconsciously avoided her gaze. "You��re the children��s mother. No one has more say than you regarding them. I��ll go pay first ande get you twoter."


    Zhi Xia noticed the fleeting panic in his eyes the moment she said "An Meixia".


    Not only did Pei Jing recall the matter, so did she.


    Zhi Xia secretly clenched her fist. This matter was not over yet. She would see how he exined himself. For now she wouldn��t fuss over it with him.


    The child gave a soft moan. Zhi Xia reached out and upon contact��as expected, he had peed again.


    She could only helplessly get up and change his diaper, grumbling with irritation all the while, "Stinky brat, you don��t cherish your mother one bit. Do you know how much pain I went through birthing you? Next time you want to pee when your dad is around, so he can change your diaper. Got it?"


    An ZhiXian couldn��t help letting out a muffledugh from the doorway.


    Seeing him, Zhi Xia felt no shame, only mischief as she blithely ordered, "Third Brother is just in time. Go change your nephew��s diaper."


    She was in better spirits than yesterday, but her body was still very weak.


    Giving birth itself took a toll, let alone multiples. Even snow fruit could not instantly restore her.


    "On it." An ZhiXian��s face shed with helplessness, but his eyes were full of mirth.


    Resigned, he took the diaper from Zhi Xia andid out the padding before wrapping up the child again and cing him next to Zhi Xia��taskplete.


    When Pei Jing returned, he saw An ZhiXian was also there and asked Zhi Xia, "Second Brother is also hospitalized. Shall we drop by him on the way out?"


    Zhi Xia nodded. Pei Jing carried the child while An ZhiXian held their luggage, and together they left the room.


    Seeing An Zhiren, he still had an IV hooked up while holding a pen and asionally jotting things down.


    Noticing their entry, he put his things away. "Going already? School starts the day after tomorrow, right? Can Second Brother make it? Don''t force yourself. Take time off if need be and focus on recovering first." Seeing hisplexion, Zhi Xia felt that besides looking paler, he seemed fine otherwise.


    Moreover, he had the energy to organize teaching materials. It appeared his injuries were not too severe.

 Chapter 223: Nobody Cares

    <h4>Chapter 223</h4>


    ��Don��t worry, I know my own body and limitations," An Zhiren said evasively. For her, nothing was more exciting than being able topletely get rid of Wang Caixiang.


    That woman didn''t want a way out when given one. She insisted on courting death herself, which was extremely ridiculous.


    Knowing that An ZhiXian was in the hospital and must be bored, Know Xia had prepared some dried fruits ahead of time and handed them to him. "I made these before. Have them as a snack to help pass the time."


    An ZhiXian raised his eyebrows and jokingly said, "They''re probably leftovers from when my little sister was pregnant. Lucky for second brother to get the extras."


    An Zhiren waspletely unaffected by his words. "Since you put it that way, you don''t get to eat them. They''re all mine."


    "Can''t let you keep that bargain all to yourself." An ZhiXian had already eaten one and his eyes instantly lit up. He picked up another piece and handed it to An Zhiren. "It''s pretty tasty, try it."


    Their happy time was disrupted by two nurses who suddenly burst in.


    "Doctor An, we weren''t involved in switching the babies. At most, we just misidentified the child. Newborns look so simr, you can''t me us. How could you report us to the director?"


    These two nurses had helped deliver Know Xia''s baby. They were quite unlucky to get caught up in this whole affair. If nothing had gone wrong, they would have safely delivered the baby without any issues.


    But they had chosen to lie to avoid responsibility. At most, they might have gotten a demerit on their record. Losing their jobs was too harsh.


    An ZhiXian felt no sympathy for them at all and spoke coldly. "You say newborns look alike? Aren''t you just blind? My nephew was clearly one-third the size of a single birth. How could you mix them up? What��s more, when identifying the babies, I asked you to confirm repeatedly. You swore up and down there was no mistake. You even said the baby had arge blue patch on his back. But my nephew didn��t have any blue on his back at all, just two small spots on his butt!��


    Moreover, the nurses had seemed shifty-eyed at the time, making him somewhat suspicious already.


    It was clear now that even if they weren''t directly involved, they were far from innocent.


    They wanted to plead for mercy but An ZhiXian chased them straight out.


    ...


    After giving birth, women have to stay indoors for a month and can��t go to other people��s houses. So Pei Jing brought Know Xia straight back to the Pei family home.


    When they arrived, they saw that Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang were there as well.


    Old Pei hurriedly called for Pei Jing to take Know Xia back to rest. He said, ��I knew you two wereing back today. Sister Zhang got up early to line up at the supply and marketing co-op. Luckily she managed to buy an old hen to stew. I��ll go check if it��s ready.��


    After Old Pei left, Wang Yue sighed and said to Pei Shuangshuang, ��There��s an old saying - love me, love my dog. Your dad always favored your younger uncle. Now his daughter-inw gets the same preferential treatment too. When I gave birth to your oldest brother, he didn��t even show his face, let alone make old hen stew. Later he even said your brother was the family��s eldest grandson and should be taught well. But the eldest grandson still can��tpare to the younger son?��


    Pei Shuangshuang rolled her eyes in resignation. She was already used to her mother''s nagging.


    What her mother said was true. But the story she heard from her second aunt was quite different.


    When her big brother was born, grandpa and dad were both away in work teams. The journey was long so they couldn��t rush back. It wasn''t fair topare peaceful times now to back then.


    Seeing that Wang Yue was about to continue grumbling, Pei Shuangshuang hurriedly stood up. ��Mom, don��t forget why we came. I��m going to talk to younger uncle first. Keeping the bright future of your dear daughter in mind, stopining already.��


    Pei Shuangshuang was already 19. She had graduated over a year ago but was still unemployed. The neighborhoodmittee had urged her to work many times. If it weren��t for her family��s military background, she would have been forced to go down to the countryside already.


    Old Pei did want to help but suitable jobs were hard toe by these days. Any openings were being eyed by others. The avable jobs Wang Yue looked down on, feeling like Old Pei wasn''t trying his best.


    Pei Sheng couldn��t help either. Because of Pei Meng being sent down to the countryside, Jiang Su still resented Wang Yue to this day. Now that it was her daughter��s turn, not beingughed at would be decent enough.


    Know Xia had justin down in bed with the baby ced at her side when she heard Pei Shuangshuange in calling, ��Little uncle, little uncle! Is the baby asleep?��


    Pei Jing quickly turned his head back and signaled her to lower her voice. ��Sleeping now. Keep your voice down or you''ll wake him. He''ll fuss.��


    Pei Shuangshuang didn''t even want to look. The little brat kept shitting and pissing everywhere. So dirty! And the overwhelming milk smell on him too. If it weren''t for avoiding her mother, she wouldn''t even want toe in. ��Oh, then I won''t go in. Little uncle,e outter when you have time. I need to talk to you about something.��


    ��Got it. You go first.�� Pei Jing said.


    After Pei Shuangshuang left, he softly said to Know Xia, ��I��ll go out to see what she wants.��


    "I guess it has to do with work...�� Know Xia had already told him about Pei Shuangshuang��s current situation aftering back early, giving him a heads up.


    Pei Jing fell silent for a moment before heading out.


    Sure enough, Know Xia had guessed right.


    As soon as Pei Jing came out, Pei Shuangshuang pulled him aside and put her palms together pleadingly. The yfulness unique to youth showed on the young girl��s face, making her quite cute. ��Little uncle, can I ask you for a favor?��


    ��What is it?�� Pei Jing neither refused nor agreed. He was willing to help the little ones in the family if he could, but he wasn��t omnipotent either.


    Pei Shuangshuang��s face fell listlessly. ��It��s about work again. You know I graduated over a year ago but still don��t have a job arranged...��


    Pei Jing considered for a bit before asking, ��What does your dad say?��


    His big brother was still in the army. His rank was decent enough that he shouldn��t have to ask others to arrange jobs for his kids.


    Pei Shuangshuang��s expression suddenly turned evasive. ��My dad wants me to go down to the countryside. But I don''t want to. I don''t want to farm the fields. Please help me, little uncle.��


    Pei Jing didn��t hurry to refuse. He just hmm-ed and said, ��I see.��


    So was he going to help or not?


    Pei Shuangshuang pouted. In the end, she didn''t get a definite answer.


    Sister Zhang brought out the well-stewed chicken soup. Pei Jing took it from her and brought it into the room.


    ��What did she want?�� Know Xia asked him.


    ��You guessed right again. It was about work,�� Pei Jing replied calmly without much fluctuation in tone.


    Know Xia got out of bed and went to sit at the table to drink the soup herself. She asked, ��So what are you nning to do?��


    Pei Jing couldn''t make a decision without grasping the full situation first. ��See what things are like first. I��ll go ask dad what��s going onter.��


    Know Xia didn''t question him further. Based on Wang Yue��s attitude, she didn��t want to get involved in the matters of the main house either.


    Only after asking Old Pei did Pei Jing find out the specifics.


    It wasn��t that there were no job opportunities, but Wang Yue wanted Pei Shuangshuang to work in the government. She herself was nothing special and had already forcibly stuffed in Pei Jianguo who had been there for years without making any progress. Old Pei no longer had the face to deal with it.


    ��Your oldest sister-inw''s temper has been getting worse over the years. Let your big brother handle things with their family himself. I��m old now and won��t be meddling in anyone��s affairs in the future. I��ll stay at home enjoying my twilight years, living in peace and ying with my grandchildren. However things turn out depends entirely on your own fortunes.�� These were Old Pei''s original words.


    There was really no way to interfere when they were all adults. Meddling would only lead to resentment over favoritism.


    Might as well not ask anyone, which was more rxing.


    The second family was still easier to handle. Xiang Xiang decided on her own initiative a few years ago to take the exam for a job at the municipal cultural work troupe as a directing student. She had made something of herselfpared to the other adult grandchildren, without causing the elders to worry.

 Chapter 224: Hardly Likes and Dislikes

    <h4>Chapter 224</h4>


    After returning to the room, Zhi Xia asked him, "What did Dad say?"


    "Dad said he doesn''t care about anyone, and it all depends on one''s own fortune how things turn out." Pei Jing said this rather helplessly. Old Master Pei didn''t even care about Pei Shuangshuang''s situation, let alone help.


    Originally, he thought it would still be easy to arrange a job without sending her down to the countryside.


    After all, Pei Meng''s experience of being sent down to the countryside was still fresh in his memory. Girls tend to face more dangers than boys.


    But Eldest Sister-inw''s requirements were too high, and he was powerless.


    Zhi Xia smiled and teased the baby beside her.


    Pei Jing suddenly realized, "Don''t you like Shuangshuang? Did something happen when I was away?"


    "It''s not about liking or disliking her. We''re not that close anyway, and she didn''t intentionally offend me either. I just purely don''t like your eldest sister-inw and your good nephew..." Zhi Xia had no intention of hiding it from him and told him everything that had happened after she came back.


    Pei Jing listened with a somewhat gloomy expression on his face.


    After Zhi Xia finished, she didn''t bother with him anymore, nor did she care what he thought. Anyway, she had made her attitude clear that she was unwilling to deal with Wang Yue and Pei Jianguo.


    As for Eldest Brother Pei Yong, she only met him once at her wedding. He was a very imposing middle-aged man, but he was too serious and didn''t seem easy to get along with.


    However, speaking of this point, Pei Jing was very simr to him, except that Pei Jing was more gentle towards her.


    "By the way, you should hurry up and think of a name for the child. After all, that''s what I told Mom." Zhi Xia urged him.


    "Let''s call the eldest Da Bao, the middle Er Bao, and the youngest Xiao Bao."


    Pei Jing said this with a straight face, leaving Zhi Xia stunned for a moment, unable to react for quite a while.


    After a long time, she finally found her voice again, "Are you serious?"


    Pei Jing chuckled and flicked her on the nose, "Teasing you. You''re the child''s mother. Why don''t you think of it yourself?"


    "You know I''m illiterate. I won''t meddle in this." Thinking of names was a very brain-racking thing. In fact, Zhi Xia had thought of many possibilities every time, but when it came to choosing, she felt that none of them were good enough.


    Simply put, since she was the one giving birth, the brain work should of course be left for him to do.


    "Nonsense. My wife is not illiterate. She''s beautiful, hardworking, loves learning, and is already very outstanding." Pei Jing knew that Zhi Xia was very serious. As long as she had time every day, she would persist in reading and learning. She even often asked her second elder brother to send her textbooks. Over the years from elementary to middle school, she would ask him whenever she didn''t understand something, so she should have learned all the middle school knowledge.


    What she didn''t know was that Zhi Xia only put up a show for him when he came back.


    Never having set foot in a school was always a regret in her heart. So in her previous life when she was bored, she would sit in sses from primary school to university, learning to go to school like everyone else.


    It was just that no one else could see her. She only existed in her own world, unable tomunicate with others.


    Pei Jing took out a piece of paper from his pocket, unfolded it and showed it to her. "I thought of the names long ago. The first part continues with Big Brother''s, and thest words are characters decided by the grandfather and great grandfather after consulting books." He joked again, "Having said that, Dad was actually just an extra. The great grandfather thought the names he chose were too vulgar."


    Old Pei came from the countryside and only learned to recognize words after joining the army. But that was limited to word recognition. Of course he couldn''tpare with Old Master An''s profound knowledge.


    Back then when the two were together, Old Pei was often looked down upon. At first he would get angry, but after being looked down on time and again, he got used to it. Later his skin was trained to be more than just thick.


    Of course Pei Jing didn''t dare say that.


    "Be careful when you talk about Dad like this. He might beat you if he hears it." Zhi Xia said with augh as she took it. Listed on it were three names in a row following the eldest brother''s: Pei Chenze, Pei Chen''an, Pei Chenyi. "They do sound nice. Then let''s decide on these."


    Zhi Xia made the final verdict, patting her son''s cheek. "Little Ze, we have names now."


    Pei Shuangshuang called Pei Jing again from the door. It was probably about work matters.


    Just then the old master and madam came to see Zhi Xia and the children, so Pei Jing went out.


    After the old master stayed for a while and realized the old madam had something to say, he went out to find Old Pei.


    "Zhi Xia, Granny has something to tell you." After asking about Zhi Xia''s health, the old madam nced at the door to make sure no one was there before speaking. "Although Little Zhang is a nanny, she was specially assigned by the higher authorities to serve your father. Her sry is also paid by them. Now you are living at home with several children, which is quite troublesome for her."


    The old madam knew this reasoning clearly. Even the kindest person would mentally keep ounts.


    People could help out for a day or two, but with the triplets born, it would be inappropriate for Zhi Xia to take so many children to the militarypound where she lived. She alone couldn''t handle so many children, so she would need to stay here long term. There were five children in the family to serve, and that couldn''t be resolved simply by cooking three meals a day.


    Zhi Xia held the old madam''s hand. She could feel that although Granny was old in age, she had always been a delicate olddy.


    So she had to admit one thing - indeed, within Jincheng, the only one who could help her was Zhou Nan.


    The old madam also meant well butcked ability. Having lived a refined life, even now she rarely got her hands dirty, at most sewing clothes for the younger generation in the family, rarely even mending shoes.


    "Granny, I''ve also thought about this. I n to give Sister Zhang a raise with money from me and Pei Jing. What do you think?" Zhi Xia asked her.


    "Your thinking is not wrong, but you can''t give money." The old madam sighed. "Times have changed. Private employment with money given could get into big trouble if exposed. In case you getbelled as engaging in capitalism, it would not bode well. This is how Granny thinks - you can privately subsidize her with some items and such. There''s no need to make things explicit to leave a handle for others. Sister Zhang is smart and will understand. She won''t talk about such matters herself either."


    "Then I''ll listen to Granny." Zhi Xia said.


    After all, the old madam was experienced. Byparison, Zhou Sister received a lot of nice things from the An family in the past. The old madam was born in a wealthy family and had always been generous.


    "You don''t need to worry about things. Your grandfather and I discussed that it won''t be easy for you to raise five children. We two old folks don''t need much either and have a lot left over from the monthly provisions every month. I''ll prepare them for you then to pass to Sister Zhang."


    The old madam knew Pei Jing could support his wife and children, but she simply wanted to contribute.


    Zhi Xia understood this intention but definitely couldn''t ept the things.


    The old madam didn''t insist on this with her either. Anyway the person was right in front of her, so even if she wanted to subsidize the children, Zhi Xia wouldn''t be able to decline.


    Just as the old madam said, some things didn''t need to be stated so bluntly. It all depended on how they were handled.

 Chapter 225: The more children and grandchildren, the more tired.

    <h4>Chapter 225</h4>


    When Pei Jing came back, his face did not look very good. Zhi Xia could tell with one nce. But Old Master and Old Madam were still here, so she could not ask directly.


    In the afternoon, the yard suddenly became very lively. Afraid of the cold airing in, the door was only opened a crack. Zhou Nan and An JingZhi came in holding two children, while the dragon and phoenix twins also squeezed in through the crack, and as soon as they came in, their chitter-chatter could be heard.


    "Mom, mom, granny didn''t keep her word. Tell her that deceiving children is wrong!" Pei Wanqing rushed to the bedside. She hade inughing happily, but suddenly burst into tears, with pearls of tears falling down.


    She started with quiet sobs, sobbing a few times, unable to hold back and crying loudly.


    Pei ChenYe had originally came in with a cold little face that could endure it, but upon hearing his sister cry, he also started bawling. Wen Qing looked at one then the other, and also opened his mouth to wail.


    The three little ones who had been sleeping sweetly were suddenly woken up, and cried even harder.


    In just a few seconds, the room was filled with crying. It felt as if the roof was being lifted.


    Since Pei Jing and Old Pei were outside, hearing this sudden cry, not knowing what had happened, they hurriedly opened the door and asked, "What happened?"


    "Dad... Grandma... didn''t take us to find you..." Pei Wanqing still hugged Zhi Xia''s arm tightly, unwilling to let go, but did not forget to tell on Zhou Nan to Pei Jing.


    "I told you in the morning, didn''t I promise that the two little ones would definitely see you at noon? As a result, your dad had to go to school in the afternoon, and I couldn''t handle taking all of them. So they resented me for it." Zhou Nan said with a wry smile. She walked over and patted Pei Wanqing on the forehead, "You little girl, Grandma dotes on you every day, but just because she didn''t keep her word once, you went crying to your mom."


    Pei Wanqing sobbed, "I...want mommy..."


    Zhi Xia quickly soothed her, "Mommy is back now, good baby, stop crying. You''ve cried yourself no longer pretty. You''re a big sister now. Look, when you cry, your brothers cry too..."


    Pei Jing also picked up Pei ChenYe. He was still young but could control himself better, not needing to be soothed. Hey on Pei Jing''s shoulder and stopped crying by himself.


    In a moment, Pei Jing looked down to see him fast asleep, his little hand still tightly clutching Pei Jing''s clothes, unwilling to let go.


    The triplets also stopped crying, pouting as they continued sleeping.


    Wen Qing looked at one then the other. With no one to soothe him, he quickly hugged An JingZhi��s leg, ��Grandpa hug.��


    "Good, Grandpa hug. Our Wen Qing won''t cry either, hmm?" An JingZhi helplessly picked him up. The 6-year-old little guy ate like a little dumpling. He was not light at all. After holding him for a while, An JingZhi put him back down on the ground.


    Children''s emotionse and go quickly. There was a small bed in the room where the triplets were. With no room here, Zhi Xia could only be ced on the small bed, while ChenYe slept at the other end. Wanqing and Wen Qing went to see their little brothers.


    Zhi Xia overheard Wanqing say to Wen Qing, "Wen Qing brother, look, these are all my mom''s little brothers. Your mom didn''t even give you a brother."


    "What''s there to show off about that? I not only have a brother, but also a sister. Aren''t you my sister? My uncle''s family also has several brothers and sisters. I got used to it long ago!"


    Wen Qing retorted arrogantly, but was shattered by Wanqing''s words, "But they weren''t born by your mom. My brothers were born by my mom. They''re different."


    "Then I''ll have my mom give birth to one when I get home..."


    Zhi Xia suddenly remembered that when she saw Liulingst time, she had also given her a jar of snow crystal fruit preserves. If it was due to physical reasons, it would also be enough to nourish her.


    Eldest brother had been home for so long. If things went smoothly, eldest sister-inw might already be pregnant in her belly.


    As for why she never doubted that An Zhiqing had a problem, of course it was because Zhi Xia had secretly fed him plenty of supplements while he was in the army.


    Hearing the children''s childish words, Zhou Nan was also somewhat worried, "When Wen Qing was born, I told her to properly sit the month, but she refused to listen. She had to go to work the second day after giving birth. And in recent years, she has taken a lot of medicine and treatments while trying unsessfully to have another child. I guess it must have been due to catching a chill in the postpartum month."


    An JingZhi red at her, "What''s the use of talking about this now? Young people have their own considerations. We should just do our best to support them from behind the scenes."


    Besides, they already had Wen Qing. What they should worry about now was the second child.


    "It''s easy for you to say that, but why don''t you stay home and support them?" Zhou Nan would not usually say this to him, because it was useless to do so.


    In others'' eyes, for her entire life she was extremely lucky to have married into the An family. How many could understand the bitterness in her heart?


    Zhou Nan thought again of Granny Zhou''s words, and her heart involuntarily felt some bitterness.


    No matter when, the only person in this world who would think for her was her aged mother.


    Oh well, no children was also good. It''s said that many children bring fortune, but she felt that the more children, the more exhausted one would be.


    At least her few sons could be considered filial. In the neighboring household, the son also had many children. Just for the sake of a house, the brothers fought until their heads bled, causing quite an embarrassing joke.


    When leaving, Zhou Nan wanted to bring ChenYe and Wanqing to ease their burden a little, but the two little ones stubbornly refused. Zhi Xia also told them to stay, so she had to give up.


    Although she thought in her heart that she should not neglect the older children even though there were young ones now, it was impossible to actually do so. From when she was several months pregnant, the two children were repeatedly told not to pounce on her or let their mother hold them.


    Zhi Xia could also feel that the usually mischievous Wanqing had obviously be well-behaved and sensible, though still young and asionally unable to control herself. ChenYe had also changed notably, taking care of things he could do himself instead of calling for Zhi Xia.


    Knowing that Sister Zhang next door had a son and daughter, Zhi Xia gave her two pieces of cloth. As Old Madam had said, she did not refuse. Everyone knew what this meant.


    Although she had taken good care of Zhi Xia and the children before, she was clearly even more diligent after this benefit, since she now had a responsibility to fulfill after obtaining this favor.


    After New Year��s, for two or three consecutive days, Pei Jing suddenly started going out early and returningte.


    Such continuous days clearly displeased Zhi Xia.


    He only had a total of one month��s leave. Deducting transportation time, at most he had three or four days left before having to leave again. Instead of cherishing time with the children and her, he was nowhere to be seen every day.


    When he came backte again one night, he was even hugging a box of cookies. But when he pushed the door, he clearly noticed it was locked from inside.


    Pei Jing: "..."


    In over four years of marriage, this was the first time he had received such treatment, which made him nk out for a moment.


    After knocking for half a day without daring to make too loud a sound for fear Old Pei would hear and he would have to exin not just to Zhi Xia but also face trouble from his own father, he circled around to the window and gently pushed it open.


    He smiled, knowing Zhi Xia had done this on purpose. Otherwise, fearing the night wind would blow the window open, it was alwaystched tight from inside.

 Chapter 226: Just don鈥檛 want to fall into someone else鈥檚 hands.

    <h4>Chapter 226</h4>


    He quietly crawled up the window, circled around the table inside, and perfectlynded on the ground.


    After closing the window with the back of his hand, the frowning eyebrows did not rx.


    He understood Xia Zhi''s temper. Her seemingly gentle appearance actually hid a very stubborn heart inside.


    Otherwise, she would not have refused to forgive An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan for so many years.


    Pei Jing walked anxiously to the front of the bed and immediately saw that she had not fallen asleep.


    Shey t on the bed, looking up, without even giving him a nce.


    Her expression was still rtively calm, but her eyes were filled with tears, like a clear spring, as if when full, she could not hold them and they would flow down.


    If he still felt a little relieved when he first entered, at this moment, it made him feel extremely uneasy.


    His fingers unconsciously hooked, and his voice slightly trembled as he called her, "Xia Zhi ..."


    He sat on the edge of the bed, leaning over her,pletely denying her the chance to avoid his eyes.


    Xia Zhi''s eyes moved slightly, but her gaze remained clear and waveless, with a touch of coldness in her tightly pursed lips.


    Pei Jing sucked in a breath, hugged her wrapped in the quilt into his arms, "Xia Zhi, don''t be like this, okay? Let''s talk nicely. Don''t be angry anymore?"


    "I''ve been waiting for you to talk nicely to me. You were the one being secretive and refused to speak," Xia Zhi was still calm. She had thought about it for a long time alone before he returned.


    The life full of warmth and affection, there was suddenly a moment, that she felt meaningless.


    "I didn''t refuse to speak, you just didn''t ask me," Pei Jing said.


    Xia Zhi struggled and got herself out of the quilt, "So what you mean is, you''re ming me?"


    "No," Pei Jing rubbed his nose. Seeing her vent her anger, he was not so worried.


    He took out the tightly wrapped cookie box from his clothes and handed it to Xia Zhi, "I know you don''t want me to get in touch with Zhao Runze, and you don''t want me to know some things. But I still want to tell you, since things have happened, we can only seek solutions. Escape is not the perfect n. Also, even if you want to conceal some things, you have to sweep the tails clean."


    Xia Zhi stared nkly at the box. The box was obviously very old with rust stains all over it and the original color could no longer be seen.


    But she already had a premonition that Zhao Runze��s awakening of memories was probably rted to the things in this box.


    "These past few days, you were busy with this?" Xia Zhi looked at him in astonishment.


    Pei Jing nodded, he did not deliberately hide it from her either, "Xia Zhi, this Zhao Runze person..." After all, for the time being, the other party hadn''t done anything. Pei Jing didn''t want to makements, he just reminded her, "Zhao Runze told me some strange things. He seems to treat you very differently..."


    He said that Xia Zhi could be happy, but in fact.


    His meaningful words all indicated that he had Xia Zhi in mind, or rather... that An Meixia.


    Pei Jing was no fool. If he was more sensitive, based on what Zhao Runze said, he would have contradictions with Xia Zhi.


    He was also aware of some things, but before getting confirmation, he really didn''t want to specte in that direction.


    Xia Zhi knew what was going on with Zhao Runze.


    But for things in that life, even if she was not involved, she did not want them to be exposed either.


    Whether it was Zhao Runze or Pei Jianguo, she only felt disgusted with both.


    "Did you look at it? The stuff inside?" Xia Zhi thought that the things inside would disrupt her peaceful life, so she should feel very upset, but when it really came to this moment, when the things were ced in front of her, she felt extremely calm, calmer than ever.


    Pei Jing shook his head, "I went to find it only because I didn''t want these things to fall into someone else''s hands and hurt you. Xia Zhi, I understand you are different from others, but since you are my wife, as long as you are still you and I am still me, we will be firm enough that nothing can disrupt our peaceful life." This was the guarantee Pei Jing gave her, "Xia Zhi, maybe you can try to believe in me a little more."


    "I''ve always believed in you very much." No matter which aspect, the impressions he left in her past and present lives were always outstanding.


    But no one can be perfect, and Xia Zhi didn''t think she was that good either.


    Perhaps without that idental incident, he would never even nce at her, let alone love and respect her like now.


    "I mean it. Since it''s found, take a look," she said.


    Humans are always curious. Even if he really didn''t watch, there was still Zhao Runze talking nonsense. He might still think otherwise.


    She might as well tell him everything today. Even if these things were truly exposed in the future, she didn''t lie to him.


    Xia Zhi opened the cookie tin. It was fastened very tightly and still a bit difficult to open. At the moment it opened, some rust dirtied her hands.


    This also showed that the box had probably not been opened for a long time.


    Inside the box was a chipped fountain pen and a notebook. The pen looked very old, and the notebook cover was also yellowish, apparently a few years old.


    Xia Zhi did not hide it and opened the notebook in front of him, "Take a look."


    The notebook was obviously missing many pages. More than half of the thick notebook had been torn off. The beginning was filled with words written closely together. There were still a few nk pages in the back without any writing.


    The first few pages recorded major national events that happened in recent years. After that were introductions to people, including some that she knew, such as Liu Jun, but the difference was that it stated Liu Jun went to the countryside in 1972, took the first college entrance examination in 1977 after returning to the city, worked in the Industry and Commerce Bureau, and rose through the ranks to be the bureau director before the age of forty.


    Xia Zhi read a few pages before losing interest. She flipped the notebook over to Pei Jing, "Take a look."


    Although he had expected it earlier, Pei Jing was still shocked when he actually saw these.


    "So the piece of paper Zhao Runze had was torn from this notebook?" Pei Jing wondered, "This notebook, could let the people recorded in it..." Awaken some memories they should not have?


    He was suspicious, yet did not dare to ask directly.

 Chapter 227: You don鈥檛 see Me See

    <h4>Chapter 227</h4>


    "You probably guessed right, it''s just as you thought," Zhi Xia said. "Hurry up and see what''s behind, maybe you''re there too."


    Pei Jing was stunned, suddenly realizing that this was perhaps what she was most worried about.


    Pei Jing closed the notebook and handed it to Zhi Xia, "No need to read on. This thing that shouldn''t have existed in the first ce, it''s better to get rid of it. Take it into your space and burn it. I''m afraid someone might see it if it''s outside, and it would be bad if another Zhao Runze showed up with more missing pages."


    Everyone has their own normal life trajectory, and those memories that they have never experienced before suddenly appearing in their minds will still have some impact on them to some extent.


    He had investigated Zhao Runze''s past, and he had a good reputation, having been named an outstanding teacher for two consecutive years, but the obsession and regret in his eyes whenever he talked about An Meixia still shocked him.


    It took Zhi Xia a lot of effort to finally make the decision to let him know about the past.


    She thought that if he had the memories from that life like Zhao Runze did, he could avoid many pitfalls in this life, which might not be a bad thing.


    Also, if he could still treat her the same way as before even after knowing, she would never let him down in this life.


    It was time to make a decision today, dragging it out made her feel uneasy, and there was still Zhao Runze out there, including those missing pages, no one knew what would happen next.


    "Since you refuse to read it, then I''ll take a look." Zhi Xia took it and flipped to the back quickly, although very fast, she read every protagonist''s name on each page very carefully.


    She was looking for Pei Jing''s name. Since Gao Meiyun had recorded so many important figures, Pei Jing was also very sessful in that life, there was no reason he would not be included.


    But unfortunately, there was no mention of his name all the way to the end. Instead, she saw the name Pei JianGuo.


    In Pei JianGuo''s life record, there were also appearances of An Meixia, with some abusive words after each name, which showed how much Gao Meiyun detested this name.


    "Surprisingly there''s no mention of your name." There really wasn''t any Pei Jing. Zhi Xia didn''t know if she should feel happy or worried.


    Pei Jing took it very well, also relieved, "I see that the people written in it are those who will achieve great sess in the future, either in wealth or career prospects. Since I''m not included, it can only mean that I''m just an ordinary person. It looks like I can only let you and our child live this ordinary life this lifetime."


    "That''s not necessarily the case. After all, one person''s perspective is limited, it''s impossible to know all the important figures. Maybe the person who wrote this just didn''t know about you." What Zhi Xia actually thought was that Pei Jing''s pages had probably been torn out.


    "Since I''m not in it, then let''s burn it. Otherwise it wouldn''t be good for it to spread out." Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Jing nodded in agreement.


    In fact, he had noticed the page she paused slightly at for a moment, although it was upside down from his perspective, but Pei Jing had professional training after all. With just a nce, he could see it clearly.


    Pei JianGuo had a son with An Meixia.


    So was this what she was worried he would find out?


    Actually there was no need at all. He and Zhi Xia were of the same mind, no matter what happened in their past lives, he didn''t know and didn''t want to dwell on it.


    They were doing great now, and that was enough.


    Also, he wasn''t stupid. Zhi Xia was obviously different from what Zhao Runze knew. She even only had annoyance and unease when talking about Zhao Runze,pletely unlike Zhao Runze''s description of their deep love.


    So she absolutely could not be the non-existent An Meixia.


    Some unclear, vague things tend to make people more apprehensive. Once ced right in front, one realizes there was nothing to it.


    There are no insurmountable obstacles in life, only those we don''t want to get over.


    The fact that Zhi Xia worried about Pei Jing''s inability to ept those things and leave her, while she was capable of ensuring a living for herself and their child, meant she had developed feelings for him and was uncertain about their future.


    It wasn''t that he didn''t provide her enough sense of security, her own past experiences led to her current personality, anxiety, unease.


    "By the way, who did you get this from?" Zhi Xia had guessed but didn''t have confirmation.


    "Gao Dalin, or more urately, Gao Second Sister." It was thanks to a cousin from Zhou Vige who helped get it done.


    Life had been hard on Gao Dalin and his siblings over the past few years. Shunned by everyone in the vige, paid less when working more, they barely got by.


    Naturally it was the same for marriage prospects. No matter who it was, upon hearing what the Gao family had done, even widows wouldn''t marry into their family. Gao Second Sister was also unable to get married, and could only rely on each other with Gao Dalin to survive.


    When a man reaches a certain age, curiosity about women is inevitable. Gao Dalin had been with a widow from the same vige for a while. The widow was also struggling to make ends meet and simply wanted to take advantage of him, otherwise she wouldn''t have refused to marry Gao Dalin.


    Pei Jing happened to see this and asked his cousin from the Zhou family to set up Gao Dalin. They made the widow coax him into stealing Gao Second Sister''s belongings.


    After all, having an affair was no small matter. With this incident held over her, the widow was also afraid and naturally had to look out for herself first.


    ...


    Speaking of which, they were unaware themotion this operation of his had caused over in Anle Vige.


    Although Gao Second Sister hadn''t opened that box for a long time, she had seen the records inside and thought there would definitelye a day when they could be put to use, so she kept it well preserved and would take a look every now and then.


    Of course the money inside had long been taken out and used up. Apart from that, ordinary people wouldn''t want the pen and notebook either, so even if a thief came they might not take those items.


    The only reason she took them originally was because there was money inside. Who knew the things recorded in that notebook would bring her such a big surprise.


    It was just a pity that she was unable to enjoy some of the surprises herself, and not only did none of her several ns seed, but she was robbed every time.


    But when she opened the cab today, the box hidden under her clothes at the bottom was gone.


    Gao Second Sister instantly erupted and rushed to Gao Dalin''s room to question him, "Brother, did you take something from my cab?"


    Gao Dalin''s eyes shifted around, certainly not daring to admit it, "No, why would I take your stuff? Second sister, what''s missing?"


    Among the siblings, Gao Second Sister was the smartest. Although Gao Dalin looked very tough, in reality over the past few years, major and minor matters were all decided by Gao Second Sister.


    "The box under the clothes in my cab." Seeing the look in Gao Dalin''s eyes, if he imed the missing item wasn''t taken by him, she would beat herself to death before believing that.


    The two grew up together since childhood, how could she not know a person like Gao Dalin well?


    "Gao Dalin, I''m warning you. What was hidden inside is something that can help the two of us turn our lives around in the future. If you want to stay emascted and trapped in this little mountain vige all your life, then go ahead and keep this up!" Fortunately, she was smart and understood that one shouldn''t put all one''s eggs in one basket. So after discovering something off about the item, she had picked out and separately stored some parts. The missing stuff was all recorded in her head anyway, so the loss wasn''t too significant.


    That An Meiyun was also stupid. What a waste for her parents to go through so much trouble to protect her.


    To possess so much information in her brain yet cing all her thoughts on those unimportant contests,pletely failing to properly utilize connections and rtionships. Instead she offended all her backing.


    If it were her, she would definitely haveid low and acted deferentially the moment little Cao returned home. After raising her for so many years, she was still their birth daughter who had been reced through such means. Some special treatment would still be warranted when first getting her back.


    Even if she couldn''t see eye to eye about things, she still shouldn''t go against others openly. In the end she got herself killed, and deserved it.


    Gao Dalin also knew his sister was smarter than him. Hearing her say this, his heart tightened instantly, "Second sister, what exactly was that stuff?"


    "You don''t even know what those things are yet you dared to give them to someone else. You might as well throw your brain into the pigpen to feed the pigs!"


    It was Gao Second Sister''s first time blowing up so badly. It made Gao Dalin even more aware of the gravity of the situation.


    He had seen what was inside too before, just a notebook and a pen. That widow had been cajoling him thest couple days and even agreed to marry him. He got muddled for a second and gave it to her.


    But all this was built on the current circumstances. If he could turn his life around in the future, what kind of wife wouldn''t he be able to find? Was it still necessary to marry a widow?


    "No, I''m going to find her and get your things back from her," Gao Dalin reacted and headed out, with a fierce look on his face as if he was ready to kill someone.

 Chapter 228: When you have money, don鈥檛 you have anything else

    <h4>Chapter 228</h4>


    Gao Dalin was stopped by Gao Second Sister. "What''s the point of going to find her now? It''s like you''re feeling sorry for yourself, even more than a pig. Before you gave her things, didn''t you think about it? She''s a poor widow who doesn''t want money or food. What use does she have for a notebook and pen? Don''t tell me she''s interested in that old iron box that stores the notebook and pen! That thing is definitely not in the widow''s hands anymore. Going there would be pointless. Our situation in the vige is already difficult enough, so let''s not stir up trouble."


    "Are you saying that we''ve been tricked?" Gao Dalin was a bit confused at first, but then he reacted. His face turned gloomy, filled with unwillingness. "Second Sister, I know you''re smart. Can we just let this matter go like that? The widow promised to marry me. Even if I can''t get the things back, we can''t just lose her too. I have to go find her."


    "Gao Dalin, can''t you think of something other than getting married? The widow has two sons with her. If you bring her back and let someone else raise her sons, you''re being foolish." Gao Second Sister hadn''t gotten married herself, but she wasn''t worried because she had confidence. She believed that she could make a fortune by taking advantage of the reform and opening up as mentioned in the notebook.


    Once they had money, what else would they have to worry about?


    Clearly, Gao Dalin didn''t know about this. He yelled at Gao Second Sister, "Second Sister, you''re a woman, so you don''t have to worry about getting married. But I''m a man. I''m already 24 years old. Look at our vige. Men my age already have a bunch of kids. Look at me. If I keep dying, will I still be able to get married?"


    There was only one widow, and he had put in a lot of effort to sweet-talk her and enjoy some benefits.


    But the widow never allowed him to fully satisfy himself in order to keep him dangling. Gao Dalin was getting impatient.


    He just wanted to bring her back home and do whatever he pleased. As for those two brats, once they entered his Gao family...


    No, he couldn''t do that. Gao Dalin was somewhat frustrated.


    The widow''s family was also from the vige. Even if he brought her back, he would have to take good care of the two children, or else his own family would beat him to death.


    Gao Dalin felt very wronged. "It''s all because of those two old folks. Our family could have been living a good life, but they insisted on swapping their child with someone else. As a result, that wretched girl got all the benefits. Not only did we gain nothing, but we also ended up in a mess!"


    Gao Second Sister rolled her eyes. The incident had already happened. What''s the use of talking about it now?


    "Gao Dalin, you''re my own brother. We can only rely on each other now. Listen to me. Cut ties with that widow. At most, it''ll take four years, and I''ll definitely find you a wife. And when the timees, you can choose a beautiful one. You know that if I''m uncertain about something, I won''t mention it." Gao Second Sister''s eyes turned fierce. "If you don''t listen to me, then we''ll go our separate ways. We won''t care about each other anymore. You can bring the widow back and let someone else raise her sons. Once they grow up and be useless to you, they''ll kick you out. By then, you won''t even have a ce to die."


    Gao Second Sister wasn''t afraid that he wouldn''t listen. There were examples of such cases nearby.


    Marrying a widow is no big deal, but when ites to marrying a young maiden, it''s a different story. Raising her and marrying her off can bring a dowry. As for raising someone else''s son, that''s something to seriously consider.


    "So, we just have to ept this loss?" Gao Dalin was unwilling to give in.


    "We have to ept it, whether we like it or not. If you have the ability, you can even kill someone without consequences. But if you don''t have the ability, it''s better to hold back and wait for an opportunity for revenge. You know our status in the vige. There''s no need to jeopardize ourselves over such a trivial matter," Gao Second Sister looked at him and said, "If you have anger you can''t vent, go work in the mountains. At least you can earn some money."


    They were already starving, living so close to the vige.


    The reason they were still surviving so well was that they secretly grew crops in the deep mountains and raised livestock, and then exchanged them for money on the ck market.


    It''s no wonder Gao Second Sister is so clever. She knows herself well, and she always thinks about having an exit strategy. She also keeps an eye on everything happening around her.


    If it weren''t for the opportunity of obtaining An MeiYun''s notebook, she wouldn''t have known so many things.


    However, Gao Second Sister had one realization: she and Jincheng were at odds, and she couldn''t go to that ce.


    All of Jincheng''s plots were taken advantage of by others. Otherwise, whether it was capturing human traffickers or having Gao Dalin save that girl, or even saving that leader, they wouldn''t be stuck in this small mountain vige. They would have already soared to great heights.


    It''s such a pity.


    Fortunately, things went rtively smoothly after they returned.


    A ray of morning light seeped in through the window, casting a golden hue in the room.


    Zhixia woke up from her dream, her forehead covered in cold sweat.


    "What''s wrong? Did you have a nightmare?" Pei Jing wiped her forehead with a handkerchief, concerned.


    Zhixia nodded, her expression somewhat dazed.


    "It''s nothing. Just a dream. It''s good that I''m awake now," Pei Jingforted her, but there was a conflicted look in his eyes. Finally, he spoke up, "I''ll be leaving the day after tomorrow. I won''t be able to apany you during your confinement."


    Zhixia let out a heavy sigh and smiled, "It''s alright. There are only a few days left."


    "I have to visit An Family before I leave. They''ve been helping us inside and out these days. It wouldn''t be appropriate if I just left without saying anything," as a son-inw, it wouldn''t be right for him to leave so quietly.


    Zhixia understood this, and she wouldn''t make it difficult for Pei Jing, who was caught in the middle. "Then go if you have the time. Don''t rush back. It''s not a good look."


    "I''ll go soon. I''ll bring some gifts for my parents. It''s a token of gratitude. Besides, they already know our situation. I won''t stay for a meal and wille back after a quick visit." Pei Jing said as he handed her clothes, urging her to get up. Zhixia couldn''t go before the end of her confinement, so he had to go alone.


    He could take the twins with him. During this period, he had been worried about his younger brother, and Zhou Nan hade to pick them up several times, but he refused to go and stay there.


    After Zhixia freshened up and had breakfast, Pei Jing took the children and left.


    He was quite fast. In less than an hour, he returned alone.


    Seeing Zhixia''s surprised expression, he awkwardly touched his nose and said, "I was afraid you couldn''t handle all three of them, so I came back early. The two little ones are staying there for a couple of days beforeing back with me."


    He couldn''t really say that he had been sent back by his second uncle. Fortunately, he had hurried back on a Sunday.


    But as soon as he entered the house, he was immediately driven out and told toe back and take care of Zhi Xia properly.


    However, they had known each other since childhood, so they could still make this kind of joke.


    What Pei Jing didn''t know was that when Zhou Nan returned from buying groceries, intending to entertain her son-inw, she learned from the child''s mouth that he had been chased away. Immediately, she gave her son a good lesson.


    "Grandpa, is Uncle and Aunt at home?" The clear voice of Pei JianGuo came along with the sound of a bike passing through the gate.


    The old master quickly responded from the backyard, "They are in the back."


    Pei JianGuo shouted again and walked over, knocking on the door twice, "Uncle, are you inside the house?"


    Pei Jing frowned, and suddenly those words shed through his mind��Pei JianGuo and An MeiXia had a son.


    If it weren''t for his encounter with her on the mountain, if Zhi Xia had epted that name back then, ording to the rtionship between the two families, she and JianGuo should indeed have been a match arranged by others.


    Pei Jing''s eyes darkened, he stood up and opened the door, but only left a small gap to let himself out before closing the door with a bang. "Why all the noise? JianGuo, your aunt is still in her confinement period, she can''t tolerate noise and fright. You should be more careful in the future."

 Chapter 229: You Are the Best

    <h4>Chapter 229</h4>


    Pei JianGuo was stunned for a moment, feeling that Pei Jing''s attitude was a little inexplicably stern today.


    Isn''t he always like this, and didn''t argue much either!


    How could An ZhiXia be made of paper and be blown apart by him in one breath?


    "Uncle, did she say something to you?" Pei JianGuo was a little guilty. The difference between him and Wang Yue was that he at least knew he was wrong, but Wang Yue only felt that it was what she deserved.


    "Who said something to me?"


    Pei JianGuo had always avoided calling An ZhiXia, and only called her a couple of times in front of Pei Jing. At other times, people just thought he was shy, after all, they used to be of the same generation.


    But under Pei Jing''s stern gaze, he had to admit one fact in shame and anger, "Auntie..."


    He was thinking that he didn''t make any mistakes recently. Uncle suddenly became like this, certainly because An ZhiXia was backbiting behind the scenes.


    Yet he didn''t know that what Pei Jing wanted was exactly what he said, "Pei JianGuo, who taught you to be so rude? I don''t care what you thought before, but you have to recognize one fact clearly, now that An ZhiXia is married to me, she is your aunt. Being disrespectful to elders, is this your etiquette? Is this what you learned at school all these years? Even elementary school students know to respect their elders, don''t you know?"


    "I...I know." Pei JianGuo didn''t understand why he was being scolded like this, but he didn''t dare to refute.


    Old Pei came over from the back garden and saw the scene in front of him. He gently coughed and said, "JianGuo is here. Come in and sit down. Third brother, you shoulde in too."


    Only then did Pei JianGuo breathe a sigh of relief. He secretly nced at Pei Jing and saw him leaving before he dared to follow behind.


    In the living room, three generations sat together.


    Old Pei looked at Pei Jing, then at Pei JianGuo, and asked kindly, "Why did youe at this time? Didn''t Shuangshuange with you?"


    Ever since Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang came back unsessfullyst time, they never visited again. Pei JianGuo''s face instantly became a little awkward. "Grandpa, my mom happened to have time today and took Shuangshuang to the mall. She said they woulde to see you another day. I came because I wanted to ask if the job my dad arranged for Shuangshuangst time could still be avable for her?"


    Although Pei Yong was very unwilling toe back to this family as a father, he could notpletely ignore his own children.


    It was just that Shuangshuang was too picky about the job Old Pei got for her, so he said in a moment of anger to let her go to the countryside.


    In any case, staying in the city was better than going to the countryside to farm.


    People appreciate having a job these days. She was just being picky about wanting good benefits and a decent job. Things have been getting more difficult over the years. You can''t always get what you want.


    "So she hase around and doesn''t insist on working for the government?" Old Pei still felt somewhat embarrassed. That job arrangement was fromst year. People look for jobs, not the other way around!


    At first, she refused to take it. More than half a year has passed since then. Isn''t it toote now that she''s bringing it up again!


    Pei JianGuo didn''t actually want to talk about this either, but Wang Yue felt she lost face and was even more unwilling to see Old Pei, so he had no choice but to speak up.


    "Yes, the neighborhoodmittee has been urgingtely. Shuangshuang doesn''t have a job yet, so she went to my mom''s work leader." Although the leader didn''t say it outright, people know in their hearts what the ideological awareness meeting was talking about.


    Anyway, Pei Shuangshuang''s matter could not be dragged on any longer. If she didn''t go to the countryside, she had to work.


    Old Pei considered it for a moment and said, "I can''t guarantee that there will be job openings. That was something arrangedst year. Let me ask your dad if there are any arrangements."


    Among his three sons, the eldest''s family caused him the most worry, and felt most pity for the eldest as well.


    Marrying an unvirtuous wife had ruined his entire life!


    "Then I''ll have to trouble Grandpa." Pei JianGuo was most afraid of his dad, to be precise, they were all afraid of him.


    When they were young, Dad seldom came home, unlike now where he''s away for years. At that time, every time he came back, he would argue with Mom about everything big or small - parenting, eating, drinking, each time with the same old routine of Mom crying and making a scene, making it seem like the whole Pei family owed her.


    After a long time, he got quite annoyed by it, let alone his dad. Slowly, he came back less and less.


    At that time, Pei JianGuo was too young to understand. He only knew that Pei Yong was very afraid of arguing with Wang Yue. As long as Wang Yueined, he would slip away, while Wang Yue doted on him very much. So every time he was disciplined, he would goin to Wang Yue, and then they would fight.


    If time could flow backward and return to those days, he would definitely not act that way again, making Dad very disappointed with the whole family.


    Pei JianGuo respected Old Pei and Pei Jing greatly, also because as he grew older and more sensible, his own father was not by his side, and the people who taught him how to be a person were Grandpa and Uncle, the only one in the family who wasn''t afraid to argue and beat him despite Wang Yue.


    So after being beaten many times, he became obedient.


    Old Pei waved his hand. As the elders say, the eldest son and eldest grandson are the lifeline of an old person.


    Although the grandson didn''t amount to much, he had watched JianGuo grow up after all. His character wasn''t too bad, which was decent enough. An old person tends to be somewhat sentimental.


    "JianGuo, your uncle is leaving soon. Come see Grandpa often if you have time. Don''t listen to your mother. You are my own grandson. What grandfather doesn''t dote on his grandson? What happenedst time was just your mother going overboard..." Old Pei sighed. "Alright alright, let''s not mention the past."


    Yet Old Pei didn''t see Pei Jing''s pupils suddenly constrict after he finished speaking.


    When Pei Jing looked up again, his gaze carried some scrutiny. "Dad, isn''t JianGuo quite old already? Has he found a partner yet? If so, he should hurry up and get married, have children, and settle down. That''s how a man gains stability and understands responsibility."


    "I was just about to say, I''ve brought it up several times. Some granddaughters of my old friends are so shapely and graceful, yet he refuses to meet them. I don''t know what he''s trying to do!" Old Pei looked at Pei JianGuo and sighed, "JianGuo, your uncle makes sense. Forming your own family and career, you''re not young anymore. I introduced some girls but you looked down on them, which is fine, we can meet some more. Or if you have someone in mind, that works too...A grown man can''t stay single forever, that would be aughing stock."


    After Old Pei''s words, Pei JianGuo felt even more awkward.


    "Grandpa, I don''t want to get married yet. I''m only 24. Uncle only got married at 26, so I''m in no hurry."


    "How can youpare yourself to your uncle? He was in the army, gone for a year withouting back even once, without even seeing a woman''s face. You can''t drag this out anymore..."


    Other than Pei JianGuo himself not being in a hurry, even Wang Yue was anxious about his marriage.


    The ones she knew were all ordinary families. Old Pei had mentioned two girls she liked before, but Pei JianGuo refused to go on blind dates, useless no matter how she persuaded. She almost got angered to death.


    "You have to say what kind of girl you''re looking for, then we can try to find some suitable ones. Or if there''s someone you have in mind, that''s fine too...A grown man can''t stay unmarried forever, that''s embarrassing." When Pei Jing said this, he probably forgot that just a few years ago, he had also been determined to devote his life to the country.


    What kind of girl was he looking for? An image automatically appeared in Pei JianGuo''s mind.


    Many years had passed, and her looks were now blurry to him, yet he would never forget what she once said.


    "Brother JianGuo, you should believe in yourself. You''re good-looking and talented, much better than many others..."


    "Brother JianGuo, you''re really kind and gentle, with a mild temper too. Your future wife will be so fortunate..."

 Chapter 230: Can鈥檛 Confess

    <h4>Chapter 230</h4>


    Looking at the absent-minded Pei JianGuo, Old Pei and Pei Jing nced at each other, somewhat understanding in their hearts.


    "Is it because your mother doesn''t agree with the person you like?" Wang Yue''s family background was known to everyone in the family, and even the old friend''s granddaughter that Old Pei had mentioned, she had set her sights on was also the girl with the best family background, and not just looking at conduct. Old Pei was not the kind of person who cared too much about these things anyway, as long as the girl was good it was fine. "JianGuo, after all, spending a lifetime is a matter for two people. As long as you like her, I''ll go to your mother to put in a good word for you as grandfather."


    Old Pei didn''t want to deal with this daughter-inw Wang Yue, but the child had grown up, and it wasn''t right to keep dragging things out like this.


    Pei JianGuo smiled, "Really no, grandfather. I''ll leave the work on Shuang Shuang to you. I still have things to do at the unit, so I''ll go back first."


    He fled like an escape, which made Old Pei even more ufortable.


    Sighing wearily, he asked Pei Jing, "Number three, why are you suddenly so concerned about JianGuo''s marriage?" This was clearly not normal.


    "Big brother is away for years, JianGuo is not young anymore, and we as elders should care more about him, especially the problem of JianGuo''s wife''s character..." The rest didn''t need to be pointed out too clearly, but they could all understand.


    "What you said makes sense too." Old Pei looked in the direction Pei JianGuo had left, only feeling that time passed so fast. In a twinkle of an eye, the little guy who used to snuggle in his arms and call him grandfather had reached the age to start a family.


    Then he looked at Pei Jing again. Old Pei said, "Number three, after all JianGuo is a junior. As a man, he is inevitably concerned about face. Even if he makes a mistake, you can''t reprimand him like when he was a child. Besides, this child is not bad, he just didn''t have a good family environment to begin with..."


    This was because Pei Jing had scolded him when Pei JianGuo first arrived.


    He also knew that he shouldn''t vent his anger. After all, those were things that didn''t exist in reality. It was just a momentary thought that made him lose control.


    "I know, dad, don''t worry. JianGuo also grew up watching me. He followed me around all day when he was little. He''s also my nephew. I feel bad for him too."


    Old Pei didn''t have much hope either. His generation,pared to thoserades-in-arms who died on the battlefield, was already very lucky to see the prosperity of their mothend. People should be content.


    Now, he only hoped that his family would live in peace and harmony, without any trouble.


    "By the way dad, have you really decided to donate this house?" It was only when Pei Jing heard from Zhi Xia about what happened that day that he found out.


    Right in front of Pei Jing, Old Pei was not afraid to say it out and let his son ridicule him. "Your old man has never been afraid of anyone in his life. Although I have seen many scenes in my life, I didn''t expect that in the end I would be manipted by my daughter-inw. It''s rather ridiculous to say. To tell the truth, I haven''t actually decided about the house. I just wanted to scare your sister-inw that day. In my whole life going through winds and rains, I only have these few things left. We''ll talk about it when the timees. When you get older, your mind changes all the time. No one knows how they''ll think when the timees."


    He was not worried that Pei Jing would also covet it. ording to his original idea, it would be divided evenly among the three sons, which was fair and just, and would prevent hurting the feelings between the brothers.


    But obviously, some people didn''t think so. They wanted to monopolize it, but didn''t think about what right they had to monopolize it.


    Pei Jing was quite open-minded about it. If the house was left to Pei JianGuo, he didn''t mind at all. It was up to the elders to decide what to do with their belongings, giving to whoever they wanted.


    It was just that his sister-inw''s behavior had be too excessive, which made people more and more disgusted, thus leading to this situation.


    "Dad should also broaden his mind. If it doesn''t work, let big brothere back. It''s not right for you to handle his family affairs." Perhaps even the most outstanding person has some inadequacies, and all of Pei Yong''s inadequacies were concentrated in his family, which made him want to escape from it himself.


    Perhaps it was too oppressive, so he didn''t consider that his evasion would bring great pressure to the elderly at home.


    The more indifferent he was, the more angry Wang Yue became. With her husband being away, she could only vent her frustration elsewhere.


    Old Pei waved his hand. "It will be the greatest constion to your dad if you and Zhi Xia live your days well."


    He obviously did not agree with Pei Jing''s suggestion.


    If big brothering back was useful, things wouldn''t have been like this for so many years with him unwilling to return home.


    It might be better to just leave things as they were than toe back and suffer.


    Wang Yue didn''t dare make too big of a fuss either, but adding trouble was certain.


    When Pei Jing returned to the room, he saw Zhi Xia sitting on the bed reading a book, but her eyes were somewhat wandering, and her mind was obviously not focused on the book.


    He took the book from her hand and closed it, cing it on the table.


    "What are you thinking about? You''ve stared a hole through the book."


    "I was thinking..." Zhi Xia pulled the corner of her mouth. There was always a kind of wandering feeling in her heart.


    Pei Jing''s remarks against Pei JianGuo were heard not only by Old Pei, but also by her in the room.


    This inexplicable fault-finding obviously did not match his persona.


    "Thinking about what?" Pei Jing asked again.


    "I was thinking about something. I don''t know if I should tell you or not." Zhi Xia leaned back against her body and looked at him as steadily as possible.


    But Pei Jing just smiled. "Zhi Xia, we are husband and wife. Or should I ask you, do you think I''m unreliable? Or untrustworthy?"


    Zhi Xia shook her head. She simply spoke directly, "Pei Jing, if 4 years ago on the day I was sold, I hadn''t been able to escape, hadn''t been able to run into the mountains, do you know what I would have experienced?"


    "Why did you suddenly think of this?" Of course Pei Jing could guess what might have happened. Just because some things didn''t happen didn''t mean they wouldn''t happen. In recent years neither of them had mentioned the events of that night again, because they all knew it was not a very pleasant memory.


    Pei Jing took her slender white fingers in his hand. "So I''m very d you ran out. You met me, and although the experience at the beginning was not great, being able to have our present life now is enough to make up for all the deficiencies, right? Let those unpleasant memories drift away with the wind. We will be fine in the future, and so will our child."


    Zhi Xia made up her mind, but still hesitated at this moment.


    She nodded. "Well, we''ll all be fine."


    She wanted to confess everything, but the secret involved more than just her own rebirth.


    Afraid that her background would be exposed, Gao Meiyun wanted to kill her after being reborn. And she was also reborn again in this life, and killed Gao Meiyun.


    But she was extremely clear in her heart that killing was wrong, and even the greatest sin should be punished byw, not personal grudges.


    That was the reality, and no one could change it.


    Her approach was no different in essence from Gao Meiyun��s.


    Pei Jing was a military man as well as an upright andw-abiding person.


    Once she confessed everything, plus the abnormality of the space, with his sensitivity it probably wouldn��t be too difficult for him to guess these things.


    Even if he was unsure and only suspicious, it would still be enough to cause a rift between them.


    Zhi Xia knew from the start that every deed done in this world would definitely leave traces.


    So she never thought of personally taking Gao Meiyun��s life. It was a pity that she still couldn''t hold back in the end.

 Chapter 231: It鈥檚 hard to hide a secret from someone too keen.

    <h4>Chapter 231</h4>


    She deliberately chose such a perceptive partner, which, along with many benefits, also concealed many drawbacks.


    For example, it was difficult to keep any small secrets hidden.


    Pei Jing always felt that she had something more to say, but he didn''t dare to ask, fearing that it would bring back unpleasant memories.


    "A Jing, I can''t bear to be without you, what should I do?" Zhi Xia nestled in his arms, still feeling that the time they spent together in the military was the most carefree and beautiful.


    If only she had known, it would have been better not toe back here, then she wouldn''t have had so manyplications. She could have raised the child alone, although it would be tiring, she could have asked the helpful sisters-inw next door for assistance.


    But now, if she were to say that she wanted to leave with five children and Pei Jing, no one would understand her actions. Instead, they would think she was being difficult.


    Pei Jing ced one hand on her back and pressed gently, bringing them closer together.


    She couldn''t bear the separation, and neither could he.


    It wasn''t the first time they had realized that having so many children wasn''t a good thing. Despite others'' envy, only they knew the hardships involved.


    Thinking about what themanding officer and the battalionmander had discussed when he returned, Pei Jing suddenly felt a surge of excitement.


    Perhaps he could strive for something as well. Although he didn''t have an advantage in terms of age, since he had drunk what Zhi Xia had given him, Pei Jing could clearly feel the changes in his body. It was as if there was endless potential waiting to be tapped. Every time he exerted himself to exhaustion, his physical strength would increase significantly.


    Pei Jing had already made up his mind, but he didn''t tell Zhi Xia.


    Firstly, it was a secret within the military and hadn''t been made public yet. Secondly, he didn''t know the final oue, and he didn''t want to give her hope only to disappoint her.


    Pei Jingforted her and went to pick up the children in the afternoon.


    During their final days at home, he devoted all his time to being with the children.


    But ultimately, there came a time to part ways. On the day they had to leave, he dropped the children off at the An Family and quietly left.


    All three children were fast asleep. She locked the door from the inside and entered the space.


    Wealthy Woman of that Era: "Customer service, if I want to destroy these things that can awaken memories, it shouldn''t be against the rules, right?"


    After all, currently, these were the personal belongings of a high school girl.


    [It is not against the rules, but I suggest that the host not destroy them privately. They can be recycled.]


    Zhi Xiaughed happily. Finally, during the days when Pei Jing was absent, could she act without any restraints?


    "By the way, there''s another question. Why are there so many strange things happening in this world? I just want to live a peaceful life, why is it so difficult?"


    [Host, ever since you were reborn, your existence has been strange in the eyes of others. The transaction device and the space also don''t belong to this world.]


    Zhi Xia was still fortunate because she had the transaction device. Even if she encountered strange things, she could always receive prompts, unlike others. Aside from Pei Jing, no one else currently knew about her extraordinary nature.


    Forget it, it''s none of her business how others are with her. Now, the only thing left is the stuff from Gaomeiyun in the second year of high school. The revenge has already been avenged. Once those things are destroyed, everyone can go their separate ways. No matter what happens in the future, as long as they don''t bother her, Zhixia definitely won''t actively seek out that family.


    She took out the diary and ording to the system''s judgment, the ability to awaken people is in this book. The pen itself is nothing special.


    This should be Gao Meiyun''s reincarnated golden finger, but unfortunately, she didn''t have a chance to discover anything special before she died.


    Zhixia kept all the nk pages in the back and stored them in the storagepartment of the trading device. Maybe they woulde in handyter, so it''s better to keep some tricks up her sleeve.


    As for the pages that already had writing on them, she returned them all to the trading device.


    She already had many different dimensions, and the things that were too special couldn''t be exchanged, so Zhixia chose to exchange them for star coins, but she only got a thousand.


    As for why it was so little, it was because those pages had already been used.


    Zhixia suspected that the trading device was tricking her, but she had no choice but to ept it.


    Looking at her small remaining bnce, she decisively bought a treasure-hunting rat from Huniu.


    The genes in the beast world are really strange. The species of the offspring born to females depends on the father. Just like Huniu''s father was a tiger, so Huniu herself is also a tiger. But her mate is a wolf and a lion, so the cubs she gives birth to inherit the genes of her mate.


    When the cubs are born, they are in animal form, but they can transform after a few months. If the transformation fails, they will be driven out of the n and be wild beasts, or they may be food for wild beasts.


    But because they have the genes of the beast people, they are more intelligent than ordinary wild beasts.


    Zhixia learned this from chatting with Huniu. She still keeps one of Huniu''s cubs in her space, and it''s a lion.


    Knowing that this is a time of peace for Zhixia, Huniu insisted on giving the cub to her as a pet, which is better than being left in the mountains and eaten by wild beasts.


    But due to itsrge size, it can only be kept in the space and cannot be taken out, and this species is not suitable as a pet.


    But can''t refuse such a generous offer, so she had to ept it.


    Fortunately, there is no danger in the space, and those chickens, ducks, geese, cows, and sheep have already formed groups. Except for the fact that time passes quickly in the space and shortens their lives, the little lion is also doing well in there.


    As for therge beasts from the beast world that Huniu gave her, she also keeps a few in the space, but they are on the other side of the space, far away from each other, and there is hardly any chance of them meeting.


    This treasure-hunting rat is said to be a cub of the Rodent n that failed to transform. It doesn''t have much attacking power itself, but many females are willing to keep such a partner to go treasure hunting. If they are lucky, they can leave behind descendants.


    When she took it out, it crouched in front of the trading board and stretched its head out, wanting to rub against Zhixia''s hand.


    With its golden fur and only two silver-gray ears, it''s even cuter than the hamsters in the market.


    Zhi Xia was a little scared, so when it approached, she instinctively dodged.


    The Treasure-Seeking Mouse seemed somewhat disappointed and sat there obediently, without any other movement.


    Things in the Beast World were generallyrger, so Zhi Xia thought the Treasure-Seeking Mouse wouldn''t be too small either. But she didn''t expect it to be only the size of her palm.


    "You must be the Treasure-Seeking Mouse, right? Hello, I''ll be your owner from now on. Let me give you a new name. How about calling you Yuan Bao?" Zhi Xia needed to be on good terms with it after all, and besides, it was quite adorable. She mustered up the courage to interact with it.


    Yuan Bao rubbed against her and stood up, looking excited. It vigorously nodded its little mouse head.


    When Tiger Niu Ah Ma sent it over, she mentioned that it should please the new owner. Then it would never have to worry about food and shelter. Otherwise, if it were returned, it would be driven out of the tribe. With such a small body and no attacking power, it wouldn''t survive without protection.


    It was because the new owner had a need that it had such good luck toe to a peaceful ce as a pet.


    It actually understood what she was saying. Zhi Xia curiously extended her hand towards it, gesturing for it toe onto her palm.


    Even if it didn''t have the ability to find treasures, she would still be very willing to raise such a small pet with human-like qualities, wouldn''t she?


    The furry touch filled her palm, tickling her, but this time, the feeling of fear was much less.


    Zhi Xia carefully held it and went to the kitchen to get a piece of cooked meat, cing it in a small te.


    Yuan Bao sniffed it and instantly plunged its little head in, devouring the piece of meat in no time.


    It sat on the table, holding its stomach. It was truly too adorable.

 Chapter 232: Ordinary People Can鈥檛 afford it.

    <h4>Chapter 232</h4>


    Zhi Xia had been ying with the hamster doll in her space for a long time until the sound of a child''s cry came from outside. She hurried out.


    The one crying was little Pei Chenze, the third baby. In the month that had passed, the three babies had grown a lot bigger. Little Five was already ten jin, while Little Three and Little Four were a little lighter at around eight or nine jin.


    She checked the diaper and it was still dry. Calcting when he hadst fed, he was probably crying because he was hungry.


    Zhi Xia had just picked up the milk bottle when Sister Zhang came in the door, ��Oh my, these little ones have such loud voices. I could hear them all the way in the back yard!��


    With triplets, as soon as one starts crying, the others join in with full voice,peting to scream louder.


    But once one stops, the other two gradually stop crying as well.


    Old Pei also came over, but didn��t enter, just standing in the doorway watching.


    Zhi Xia called to them, "Dad, Sister Zhang, it''s good you came. Hurry and help make some form, all three little ones are crying at the same time. I was just thinking I��d have to feed them one by one."


    Luckily each baby had their own bottle, and thanks to her trading device, Zhi Xia always had a steady supply of form. Otherwise, going through a can every two days would be too much for an average family to afford.


    Old Pei always assumed the form came from Pei Jing figuring something out. Zhi Xia didn��t know what exnations he gave to others, but no one had asked her about it so far.


    With three people each feeding a baby, it still took half an hour. If she was caring for them alone it would be extremely tiring.


    Once the babies finished eating and fell back asleep, they were ced in their cribs.


    Sister Zhang took the three bottles. ��Zhi Xia, you rest well. I��ll go wash these bottles clean.��


    But Old Pei didn��t rush to leave. Instead he asked, ��It really isn��t easy caring for three babies. Your father and Sister Zhang can help during the day, so I think your grandmother or mother shoulde over at night to lend a hand. At least there would be someone else.��


    "No need, Dad. They''re pretty well behaved at night, usually only needing e night feeding. I can manage that myself, so you don''t need to worry. If it ever does be too much, I''ll let you know."


    With no one else around, she could easily put the babies in her space at night where the nanny bots could help care for them, allowing her more rest.


    Since her son wasn��t home, it would be improper for Old Pei to insist, so he simply said, ��Alright, try it yourself first. Call me if you need help at night.��


    After school, An Zhiren brought the twins back. Before even entering, lively chatter could be heard inside.


    Ever since the incident with Wang Caixiang, An Zhiren was noticeably more cheerful, already handsome features restored to his former refreshing charm.


    ��Brother Two, thanks for watching these two rascals,�� Zhi Xia said, hugging the twins. ��Were you good for Grandma today?��


    The two vied to answer, ��Mommy, mommy! We were good, very good!��


    Zhi Xia smiled approvingly. An Zhiren grinned as well, deliberately praising them. ��Chenye and Wanqing are big kids now. They even learned a poem today, so well behaved!��


    ��Really? What poem?��


    ��Spring Dawn...Mommy I��ll recite it for you...��


    The room was soon filled withughter and happy voices as Zhi Xia yed with them.


    After checking on the babies, the twins ran off to find Old Pei, saying they wanted Grandpa to take them next door to visit Grandma and Grandpa Liu.


    ��Mom wanted me to ask if you need her toe over tonight to help with the babies,�� everyone was worried Zhi Xia would be overwhelmed caring for the infants alone. In a few more days they would hold the one month celebration and she could return to her maternal home for some rest.


    ��No need, Brother Two. I know you��re all worried about me, but caring for babies doesn��t happen overnight. I want to try managing myself first.�� Zhi Xia gestured at the pile of books on the table. ��Since you��re here, can you take this medical text to Brother Three? Pei Jing had a friend track it down and send it back. See if he finds it useful.��


    ��Alright, if you really want to try first then go ahead. But don��t push yourself too hard. We��re family so if you need help, just ask.�� An Zhiren advised.


    The twins soon came back inside. As soon as they entered, they asked ��Mommy, where��s Daddy?��


    The most stubborn was little Pei Wanqing. Zhi Xia sat them on herp and asked ��Do you want chicken legs for dinner tonight?��


    ��Yes, yes!�� The two answered eagerly.


    In this time period of two liang allotment per person each month, meat was hard toe by.


    At the An family home, although fun to visit, Grandma only bought meat once in a long while. Naturally the twins, used to the military canteen, found this hard to adjust to. But since this was standard for everyone, they didn��t make a fuss over it despite drooling whenever meat was mentioned.


    ��Auntie Zhang went early this morning to line up for chicken, so you have to be good little ones and then you��ll get those yummy chicken legs for dinner.��


    Hearing there would be meat, Pei Wanqing was ecstatic, but perceptive Pei Chenye wasn��t so easily fooled. Staring with round, innocent eyes he asked ��But Mommy, you didn��t say where Daddy went.��


    Zhi Xia sighed, coaxing them, ��Daddy went to work of course, so he can earn money for treats like meat for his darling babies.��


    Pei Chenye breathed out like a little adult. His words were resigned yet helpless. ��It��s okay Mommy, you don��t need to cate us. We already know Daddy had to leave, so don��t worry. We��re big kids now and will be good and not make a fuss for him toe back.��


    It was what Uncle had taught him. As the oldest, with Daddy gone, it was his duty to help Mommy take care of his little brother and sister.


    Although still small, if he could distract his sister from fussing then it was enough to let Mommy focus on the babies.


    ��Chenye is really such a good boy.�� Zhi Xia��s heart ached looking at them both. Having three more babies meant she inevitably overlooked the twins at times.


    An idea came to Zhi Xia and she asked ��Chenye, Wanqing, would you like a little pet? Let Mommy give you a small pet, so when Mommy is busy, the pet can bepany.��


    She recalled her own longing for a puppy when little.


    But dogs ate up rations so she didn��t dare ask.


    Once, an older neighbor boy had caught a turtle the size of her palm from the river and given it to her. She had treasured it dearly until Gao Dalin roasted it over a fire pit.


    After that, she never kept another pet.

 Chapter 233: No Such Luck

    <h4>Chapter 233</h4>


    ��I want a puppy,�� Pei Wanqing said with her big round eyes, her chubby little face looking very cute.


    ��Okay, then I��ll get you a puppy,�� Zhi Xia said with a smile.


    Chenye didn��t know what he wanted. Compared to a pet, he preferred looking at picture books.


    He liked Grandpa''s study. There were many books inside, as well as writing brushes and ink. He wanted to practice writing, but Grandpa didn''t allow it, saying he was too young and it would hurt his fingers. However, Grandpa could teach him to read books.


    Even at just three years old, he already recognized many characters.


    After dinner, the two little ones yed in the yard. Zhi Xia had bundled up tightly and stood in the doorway.


    Old Pei came back holding a small puppy that was still barking.


    When Zhi Xia had said she would get a pet dog, she was nning to get a more unique breed. But in this day and age when most people had farm dogs, it would be too conspicuous.


    So she had asked Old Pei if he knew of any families wanting to give away puppies. As it turned out, Old Pei knew his granddaughter wanted a pet, so he went and got one from another family himself.


    As soon as Wanqing heard the barks, she hopped up and went to greet the new arrival.


    The yard was filled withughter and delight. Zhi Xia also felt reassured enough to return to her room.


    The puppy was a yellow dog. Wanqing named it Da Huang.


    With a littlepanion to y with, she happily spent her days ying with the neighborhood children and their pets. She no longer fussed about missing her dad Pei Jing, except for asionally when she got scolded for misbehaving.


    On the day of the one-month celebration, the weather was sunny and fine, and it was getting warm.


    Zhi Xia dressed Wanqing in a little skirt with a small jacket on top, while Chenye shed his sweater and cotton pants, immediately feeling much cooler.


    Sister Zhang boiled arge pot of hot water and told Zhi Xia to give the children a bath and wash their hair.


    After Zhi Xia had cleaned up, An Zhiren and An ZhiXian had arrived.


    This was the local custom: women couldn��t do their one-month confinement at their maternal home. But on the one-month celebration day, they would be brought back to their maternal home for their families to dote on them and keep them for a few days. It also gave the husband��s family a chance to air out bedding and tidy up a bit.


    After all, the new mother and babies had been cooped up indoors for a month without going out. With the children eating, drinking, peeing and pooping inside, things were bound to get smelly.


    In fact, Zhi Xia was no longer very familiar with the An family home. She had only stayed here for a month or so before getting married, and the handful of times she returnedter were fleeting visits.


    Her room was still the original one that seemed untouched.


    Zhou Nan helped carry the children into the room. After everyone else had left, she hesitantly said, ��It��s best if Chenye and Wanqing sleep in the room to the left with Wen Qing. That room has been cleaned up already. The furniture and beds have all been reced. It��s Wen Qing��s room now.��


    ��Then I��ll have to trouble Mom,�� Zhi Xia said. She took out a jar of medicinal ointment from her bag and handed it to her. ��I heard your back has been bothering you. Rubbing this ointment on your waist should provide some relief. You can try it first.��


    What Pei Jing said was right: the most exhausted person from the births of several children was Zhou Nan.


    Both in obligation and in feelings, Zhi Xia really shouldn��t have taken her for granted.


    Giving the ointment was not about forgiveness or holding grudges. If emotional knots were so easily untied, they wouldn��t be called knots.


    She was just thankful for Zhou Nan��s dedication. But emotionally, she didn��t want to force herself.


    Although Zhi Xia was still aloof, Zhou Nan was already very moved.


    She knew that Old Master and Old Madam had been using the health supplements from Zhi Xia over the years. Third brother had even specifically asked for some to research.


    She felt envious, yet also knew she had done wrong and hurt the child��s feelings.


    No matter what, whether the ointment worked or not, at least she was willing to care about her now.


    Zhou Nan was so emotional she had to dab at the corners of her eyes, afraid Zhi Xia would see her tears. She quickly said, ��Mom will go make lunch. You can stay here with the kids for a few days. Let me know if you need anything or want to eat something. I��ll take care of the rest.��


    Zhi Xia watched her hurrying figure and sat motionless on the bed for a long time.


    She could see that Zhou Nan was being deliberately cautious when mentioning the room on the left.


    That used to be Gao Meiyun��s room. Now Wen Qing lived there, and it had be Wen Qing��s room.


    Thest traces that Gao Meiyun had left in this family were also gradually being erased.


    People were always emotional. An JingZhi and Zhou Nan had wanted to treat Zhi Xia well, but after all, Gao Meiyun was the one they had raised like their own beloved daughter since young. Feelings couldn��t just be severed as one wished.


    Moreover, Gao Meiyun had always been in front of their eyes. With years of doting formed into habit, it was unavoidable they would stand from Gao Meiyun��s perspective when an issue came up.


    Gao Meiyun had already passed away for many years, and the feelings were fading away over time. Adding in the wrongs she hadmitted, one by one, those couldn��t stand up to scrutiny.


    As time went by and feelings faded, Zhi Xia was the one still alive. Together with thetent guilt, it was normal for An JingZhi and Zhou Nan to want to make up to Zhi Xia.


    This was also good. As long as everyone could live well, it would be enough.


    Lunch was very plentiful. Chenye and Wanqing were given the same treatment at home as Wen Qing.


    Although the An family had many offspring, there was only Wen Qing of the younger generation. It was giving Zhou Nan a headache. Now she looked forward to An Zhiren and An ZhiXian getting married and having children. As for the fourth son, he wasn��t exactly young either, yet Zhi Xia who was his twin sister already had five children.


    Seeing the children all grown up, Zhou Nan felt both joy and sorrow.


    Whenever Liu Ling had time, she woulde to Zhi Xia��s room, saying she wanted to hold the babies more to give her some good luck.


    Zhi Xia still wondered about something. When she first returned, she had Liu Ling drink snow crystal fruit juice, and also gave her a jar of snow crystal fruit preserves. Not only could snow crystal fruit repair the body, it also helped conceive children.


    Her eldest brother-inw had left just a few days before she gave birth, so it had already been over a month. Logically, if Liu Ling had gotten pregnant, she should have discovered it by now.


    Perhaps it was because Zhi Xia had been staring at her belly too intensely that made Liu Ling rather ufortable. ��Little sister, what are you looking at?��


    ��Nothing,�� Zhi Xia hurriedly shook her head and asked her, ��Sister-inw, did you eat that jar of fruit preserves I gave you when I came back?��


    ��Oh you mean that. Wen Qing likes eating it. I tried it and it was pretty tasty,�� Liu Ling said, somewhat embarrassed. ��Actually I was reluctant to eat it myself, and only asionally let Wen Qing have a couple pieces. But then my sister-inw from my maternal family came over with her kids. The kids liked eating it so I couldn��t not let them eat it.��


    The children hadn��t eaten enough, so Liu Ling let them polish off the remaining half jar.


    Besides, her maternal family��s sister-inw was nice, so she as the young auntie really shouldn��t have denied the kids food.


    Zhi Xia could only feel resigned. It seemed Liu Ling was out of luck.


    Anyway, she would be staying here for a few days and would watch for an opportunity to let her eat more, first conditioning her body. Then the next time big brother returned, there might be a chance.


    After staying at the An family home for two days, Zhou Nan had originally wanted to sleep in Zhi Xia��s room at night to help look after the children, but was still rejected by her.


    Since she never heard the children crying at night anyway, there was no need for her to insist.


    The ointment Zhi Xia gave was very effective. After rubbing it for just two days, her back pain was much better.


    When An JingZhi heard it worked, he asked for some to rub on his shoulders too.


    Sitting all day at his age, everyone had some minor problems.


    When there was a chance, Zhi Xia told Zhou Nan, ��Mom, I��ve also imposed on Grandma a lot over the years. I��ve been back for so long this time yet haven��t had a chance to visit her. I��d like to find an opportunity to go to Zhou Vige and see how she��s doing.��

 Chapter 234: Children鈥檚 language is ridiculous, fly a plane to see.

    <h4>Chapter 234</h4>


    "If your grandma knows you said this, she would definitely be very happy," said Zhou Nan. Since Xiao Xia had this thought, she was naturally also very happy. "Since you also want to go, why don''t you stay here for two more days? You can go there with your second brother on Sunday. If you want to bring the kids, take the dragon and phoenix twins, and leave the three little ones at home for mom to watch. You don''t need to buy anything, mom has prepared everything for you."


    "Does second brother have some business to attend to there?" Xiao Xia asked because from her words, it seemed that An Zhiren had originally nned to go.


    Only then did Zhou Nan softly tell her, "Your dad''s younger sister has a niece on her maternal side. She also went to school and graduated from middle school. It''s said she''s quite good, so I was thinking of having your second brother go take a look. Your second brother isn''t young anymore either. No matter if she''s good or bad, being able to marry a wife and settle down would get a load off his mind."


    Zhou Nan really trusted her old mother. She would never do anything improper. If the girl was really inadequate, she wouldn''t have brought up this matter. Since she did bring it up, it showed the other party did have some advantage.


    Speaking of this, Zhou Nan felt annoyed. Although she had gotten rid of that Wang Caixiang woman, her good son had be a two-time groom. Those who had previously proposed marriage matches at least weighed the girl��s character and appearance, but now, they dared to introduce any kind of girl.


    Thinking of the one she met a few days ago, Zhou Nan shivered with disgust.


    Her son was tall and handsome after all, with good work.


    On the other hand, not only was the other party ugly, she immediately asked for 50,000 yuan dowry, saying that was how much the former wife had gotten, so there was no reason she should get less. She also demanded arrangements for a job for her and a watch, plus money to buy clothes.


    An Zhiren didn��t say anything, just politely exchanged a few words before leaving.


    Marrying such a woman back home, she probably wouldn��t be a simple woman either, and he was really afraid.


    His only requirement now for his future wife was being honest and able take care of the family.


    His mother was also older, his elder brother was rarely home, and his sister-inw had it hard as a military wife without her inws�� support.


    He had caused enough worry for the family in previous years. Now he just wanted less trouble and could at least take care of himself instead of letting his parents worry again.


    After hearing everything, Xiao Xia actually felt it sounded quite good.


    Since they were rtives, they knew the ins and outs. Although she hadn''t seen the girl, it was said she looked good, plus she was the oldest at home so must be skilled at housework.


    The day before leaving for Zhou Vige, Zhou Nan called out in the yard, "Xiao Xia, I''m going to the supply and marketing cooperative for a bit. Is there anything you want to eat?"


    Xiao Xia knew she was going to buy gifts to bring to Zhou Vige, but it wasn��t right for her to also make Zhou Nan pay for her share. So she said, "Mom, why don''t I go buy them? Just tell me what you need to buy, and I��ll handle it. I also haven''t gone out for a walk in a long time, feels like I''m about to grow mold staying cooped up in the room all day."


    "I was just thinking of going out for a walk too, so let''s just skip the supply and marketing cooperative and go straight to the mall," said Liu Ling, who had the day off work today. She came out and grabbed Zhou Nan''s arm coquettishly. "Mom, let Xiao Xia and me go. You''ll just have to trouble yourself watching the kids at home."


    Zhou Nan grinned at her cajoling. "Alright, your young uncle is going to meet a match, so you as the sister-inw should help out too."


    "I''ve already had clothes made for your grandma, she likes peach cakes so buy her a pack, plus two packs of cigarettes and two catties of candy..." She took the money out of her pocket and handed it to Liu Ling. "You hold onto this. If there''s any left over, buy some snacks for the kids too."


    "Got it mom, sorry to trouble you watching the kids," said Xiao Xia.


    It was no wonder Zhou Nan always helped support Liu Ling. She really did have a sweet mouth.


    The two rode their bikes, chatting andughing merrily along the way.


    When they arrived at the mall entrance, they parked their bikes then entered the mall.


    It was the busiest time at noon with streams of peopleing and going, crowded together.


    Liu Ling took one look inside then handed the money and ration tickets to Xiao Xia. "Little sis, you go buy the candy. I��ll go get the peach cakes and cigarettes. Let��s buy these things first then go upstairs to browse."


    "Alright big sister-inw, I��ll go first then."


    In 1974, people had just reached the point of being able to eat their fill, yet various goods were still scarce. So supply cooperatives and malls often had scenes like this��buying things was like going to battle, seas of people squeezing each other, and if you were a bit slow, you could have money and tickets but still buy nothing.


    Xiao Xia squeezed among the crowd for a long time but still couldn��t make her way through the rows of older women and sisters-inw, and was almost pushed over.


    She decided not to squeeze in anymore, and took out two catties of brown sugar cubes and sorghum candy along with White Rabbit candy from her space, cing them in the basket slung over her arm without anyone noticing.


    Liu Ling didn��t have it as easy as her. By the time she finally bought everything and squeezed out from the crowd, her bangs were all messed up.


    Seeing Xiao Xia��s unhurried appearance, she asked, ��There sure are a lot of people today. Did you manage to buy the candy?��


    ��I bought some,�� Xiao Xia lifted the towel covering her basket to show Liu Ling the candy inside.


    They weren��t the original fruit candies she was supposed to buy, but these were a bit more expensive.


    Liu Ling didn��t say anything, just asked her, ��The money I gave you earlier wasn��t enough to buy all this candy right? How much more did you need? I��ll pay you back.��


    ��No need, big sister-inw, it wasn��t much more money.��


    Xiao Xia took these things out after not being able squeeze in, so the excess naturally had to be paid by herself.


    But Liu Ling insisted on stuffing the money into her hand, smiling. ��Don��t stand on ceremony. Mom provided the money today, not me. And the extra money mom gave, I don''t n on giving back to her anyway.��


    Even without Xiao Xia saying it, the prices were clearly marked. She could guess even without being told.


    Xiao Xia also smiled, openly putting the money into her pocket. ��Alright, I��ll listen to big sister-inw and spend all the money before going back.��


    The two looked at each other andughed, like sneaky little cats.


    After buying everything Zhou Nan asked for, the two women went upstairs to the second floor.


    It turned out women shopping together could really get carried away, even just looking around was very exciting, especially withpany.


    Leaving the mall, they went to a state-owned restaurant to eat a bowl of dumplings before finally heading home.


    At the front gate, as they got off their bikes and prepared to push them through the gate, they saw Zhou Nan sitting on a bench in the yard holding Wanqing in herp. The two were clearly chatting��the little girl was gesturing wildly, her expression very exaggerated. "Grandma, when I grow up I''m going to fly nes, then...then take you up into the sky to look around, even to the moon to see Chang''e and Jade Rabbit..."


    "Oh my, then grandma will have to live a bit longer, waiting for my little darling to seed when she grows up." Zhou Nan wasughing merrily, the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes deeper than before.

 Chapter 235: The Use of Ingots

    <h4>Chapter 235</h4>


    Liu Ling really couldn''t help but chuckle and said to Zhi Xia, "Look at your little girl, she probably almost fooled our motherme."


    "She only has a mouth left." Although she said so, the smile on Zhi Xia''s face couldn''t be hidden at all.


    Hearing the sound of talking at the door, Wanqing turned her head and saw Zhi Xiaing back at a nce.


    But she was not happy at all, on the contrary, she gave a snort, got off Zhou Nan''sp, and ran inside.


    Zhi Xia was a little confused. Zhou Nan hurriedly stood up and told her in a low voice, "The girl knew that you two went shopping without taking her. She was angry for an afternoon. I coaxed her for a long time before coaxing her. You have to go and coax her well."


    What a little ancestor, this stubborn temper, I don''t know who it looks like.


    I just hope it''s not the fourth elder brother, otherwise it would really be a donkey temper, and it wouldn''t work even if you beat him.


    Zhou Nan loves Wanqing very much. After all, Zhi Xia was not by her side when she was young. When she grew up and came back, there were many regrets. The feelings of adults are always not as easy and close as those of children.


    Judging from the treatment of Gao Meiyun at the beginning, the husband and wife are both people who don''t care much about their son.


    Now, a soft little girl runs around in front of them all day, and her little mouth is quite eloquent. Her mouth is also sweet. Who can''t like it?


    Zhi Xia hurriedly put her bike in and went into the house.


    The little girl was lying on the bed in the room, holding her brother''s fingers in her little hand, and her eyes nced towards the door from time to time.


    After seeing Zhi Xia''s figure, she hurriedly moved her eyes away and continued to pretend to be unconcerned.


    "Oh my, which little girl is angry? Look at the puffy face like a little bun, it''s not pretty anymore!" Zhi Xia walked over and hugged Wanqing into her arms, deliberately saying.


    The little girl didn''t resist either. She put her two hands around Zhi Xia''s neck and sniffed as if she was about to cry, "Mom is bad, I don''t want you anymore."


    "How is mother bad?" Zhi Xia hugged her, she was quite heavy, so she sat on the bed and let her sit in her arms and asked, "Mom doesn''t even know how she offended you. You have to tell mom so that mom has a chance to correct it, right?"


    "You asked me to tell you every time I went out, but you didn''t tell me when you went out yourself. It''s too much, humph!" Wanqing thought that as usual, she went out to y, but when she came back, she didn''t see her mother, she wanted to cry.


    Dad left quietly just like this. She was afraid her mother would too.


    Zhi Xia didn''t think so much when she went out. She didn''t expect the little girl to be so temperamental. "Mom didn''t tell you because you weren''t at home when I went out."


    The little girl chewed her index finger and thought for a long time before mumbling, "Then I will forgive you this time. Next time you go out, you have to take me with you, otherwise I will be afraid."


    "Afraid of what? Brother and sister are at home, and grandma, grandpa and uncles are watching you." Zhi Xia didn''t understand.


    "Afraid that you will leave quietly like Dad." She sniffed, very much wanting to cry, but her brother said that Mom was already having a hard time with her brother, they were grown up now, and had to learn to be sensible and not burden Mom.


    She also wanted to be sensible, but sometimes she couldn��t control herself, like now. She didn''t want to cry, it was her eyes that were crying.


    Only then did Zhi Xia know that the little girl had always felt so insecure. "Wanqing dear, mom promises you that she will tell you whenever she goes out in the future, and dad didn''t leave quietly. He left us to defend the country. Mom doesn''t need to defend the country. As long as she takes good care of our little Wanqing, that''s it, right?"


    "So are you taking me to Grandma''s house tomorrow?" She heard it from Grandma.


    Children''s emotionse and go quickly. She was just about to cry just now, but when she asked this question, she looked at her full of expectation again, making it hard for Zhi Xia to refuse.


    After all, the road was long and they had to transfer buses. She did not intend to take the children at first, but now that she was asked by her in this way, how could she bear to refuse?


    "Take it, of course I have to take my little baby!" Zhi Xia agreed.


    "Hooray, mom is the best, I love mom the most......"


    A big kiss was printed on her face. I don''t know who was still saying that she would ignore her just now.


    Zhi Xia also smiled helplessly.


    Early in the morning, An Zhiren and Zhi Xia got up. The little guys next door probably deliberately listened to the movement. As soon as there was a sound outside, the three of them came out neatly dressed.


    "Grandma, I want to go to Grandma''s house too." Wen Qing acted coquettishly at Zhou Nan.


    "Little ancestor, what are you going there for?" Zhou Nan had juste out of the kitchen after making breakfast and looked at her coquettish grandson helplessly.


    The second child was going on a blind date, bringing a bunch of children with him would be a nuisance!


    "I have to go, I have to go. My brother and sister are going, so I''m going too." Wen Qing refused to give up.


    An Zhiren went over to pick him up, "Mom, just let him go if he wants to go. I''ll keep an eye on him."


    Wen Qing happily showed a smile, "Thank you, uncle. I��ll be good and watch my brother and sister."


    Zhou Nan was also very helpless. The words had already been spoken, and now if she said no, she was afraid she couldn''t coax the little ancestor.


    An ZhiXian also came out of the room. "I haven''t been to Grandma''s house for a long time. I might as well go with you." The main reason was that he wanted to supervise his second brother and prevent him from bringing back a troublemaker.


    Zhou Nan was not so polite with her son. She came up and pulled his ear to pull him away, "You go to work honestly. What��s the point of poking your nose into this blind date business? If you want to get a daughter-inw too, I''ll arrange it for you another day. City or countryside, whatever you want, as long as you are willing yourself."


    It was not unheard of in the past that one went to a blind date with a brother or sister and ended up liking someone other than the date. Zhou Nan couldn''t let her family y out this storyline.


    Not to mention, the second son was going on this date under the pretext of remarriage. If the two werepared, the third son would definitely outshine his brother.


    "I know, I was just saying it casually." An ZhiXian rubbed his ear and didn''t dare to say that he just wanted to sneak away from work.


    The hospital had a new dean who was aggressively reforming. As the protagonist of the incident of bringing down the previous dean''s brother, An ZhiXian was also very famous. This led to him being intensively trained by the new dean. He was almost worked to death.


    After breakfast with the children, An Zhiren tied two bicycles to the rearpartment and set off.


    It was just getting light when they left. By the time they arrived at Zhou Vige, it was already noon.


    In February, the trees had sprouted and green was visible on the ground. Compared with the city, it was apletely different world.


    When they met acquaintances after entering the vige, they no longer rode their bikes but pushed them. An Zhiren was skilled at greeting passers-by. The three children also got off, Wen Qing took them along the familiar path.


    There was a bamboo garden on the right side of Zhou��s house. Fresh bamboo shoots popped out from inside. Zhi Xia took a look and said, "Second brother, go ahead first. Let me take a look at this bamboo grove."


    An Zhiren also nced at it and said, "If you want to eat bamboo shoots, dig a few when we leave and let mom cook them for you."


    "Let me take a look first. The countryside scenery is still good, green everywhere." Zhi Xia eximed.


    They were both at the door, and it was inappropriate for neither to enter, so An Zhiren could only go in first.


    Zhi Xia watched him turn in and quickly took Yuan Bao out of the space, then put a piece of paper under his nose, "Yuan Bao, this is the thing, have you smelled it?"


    Yuan Bao sniffed hard a few times, sitting on Zhi Xia''s palm nodding at her.


    Only then did Zhi Xia put the paper back into the space, turned her head to look in the direction of Anle Vige, and pointed the way to Yuan Bao, "It''s that direction, walk out of this vige and keep going that way. The first vige you see is the first row of houses in front, that is where I asked you to find something, remember to pay attention to safety and don''t let others discover you..."


    Yuan Bao squeaked twice, jumped out of Zhi Xia''s palm, and ran towards the distance.


    As a rodent, it certainly could not walk on the road, slipped through the fallen leaves on the roadside, moved very fast, and was simply impossible to notice at all. In the blink of an eye, Zhi Xia couldn''t even see it anymore.

 Chapter 236: Let Yuanbao out, Zhou family blind Date

    <h4>Chapter 236</h4>


    "ZhiXia, JianWen just said that you wanted to eat bamboo shoots. There happen to be someing out this season, so I''ll go dig up a fewter and have my mom make you some stir-fried pork with bamboo shoots to try," Zhou Jianwen''s voice came from behind her.


    ZhiXia quickly turned around to see him walking towards her, his face full of smiles.


    Thest time they had seen each other was four years ago.


    Over the years, Zhou Jianwen had be even darker and more mature. His sturdy body and solid arms were bulging with muscles. With his short military cut and wearing just a sleeveless shirt with a light jacket in this weather, he really could withstand the cold.


    "JianWen, please don''t go through the trouble. I just haven''t been back home in a long time and missed the scenery here, which is why I was standing outside admiring it for so long," ZhiXia said.


    "It''s no trouble at all. Now that you''re here, it''s just like you''re back at your own home. Just don''t stand on ceremony with us," Zhou Jianwen said. "Hurry inside. Those twins that look just alike are your kids, right? Second uncle is so delighted with them that he hasn''t let go of them this whole time, holding one in each arm."


    Zhou Family''s second uncle Zhou Nan and his wife had given birth to twins, with Zhou Nan being the older one. Zhou Nanter had An ZhiAng and ZhiXia, and now ZhiXia also had a set of twins. It was something quite special for the family.


    The Zhou Family home had changed quite a bit over the years. In the past, everyone lived together in a singlepound, but now second uncle''s eldest son JianYe had gotten married and started his own family, moving into a separate house.


    Two new houses had been built to the right of the old familypound, forming a smallerpound. The old house was now upied by eldest uncle''s family, along with grandmother Zhou, but the two brothers still got along well. Usually if anything came up, the whole family would still gather together.


    Following Zhou Jianwen to the front gate, ZhiXia could already hear the lively noisesing from inside.


    After entering, ZhiXia greeted everyone. The two aunties were busy cooking in the kitchen along with the daughters-inw. ZhiXia made sure not to neglect them.


    When she came out of the kitchen, Granny Zhou took her hand and gestured towards the main hall, "Your second brother is in there talking. Let''s wait a bit before going in. You don''te back often these years. How have you been doing outside? Is it hard taking care of the kids? It''s such a long trip here, you all must be exhausted. Go rest in the west room first."


    Granny Zhou had clearly aged quite a bit, with all white hair now and slightly clouded eyes.


    She asked so many questions all at once that ZhiXia answered them one by one, reassuring her situation, before asking caringly, "Granny, how has your health been these years?"


    "Very good, everything''s great..." Looking at herrge family andparing it to earlier days, Zhou granny truly felt life had gotten much better.


    Both her grandsons were married now, and her two granddaughters had married out. She didn''t need to worry about the even younger generation. If she could live a few more years to see her great-grandchildren forming families too, she could die happy even if she passed away then.


    When ZhiXia had first arrived at the Zhou family, Zhou Jianwen''s eldest daughter was still a toddler. Now the girl had grown into a little miss, while JianYe''s son was two and still walked around bowlegged like a waddling duckling in his little padded coat.


    With Wen Qing ying mediator, a group of kids were ying hide and seek at the door, making a ruckus that could be heard from far away and filling the yard withughter and the smell of everyday life.


    That was the best thing about the countrysidepared to the cities - the greater sense of liveliness.


    Of course, farming was also extremely tiring.


    JianYe was two years younger than An Zhiren, but from years of wind and sun exposure, he looked several years older when standing side by side with his cousin.


    As for his big cousin JianWen, there was no need to evenpare - though only thirty, people might believe he was forty if told so.


    Eldest and second uncles weren''t that many years senior to An JingZhi either, yet the difference was clearly visible at a nce.


    After not much time passed, An Zhiren walked out from inside, followed by a charming young woman.


    The girl looked to be twenty at most, but had a somewhat disappointed expression and sorrowful look in her eyes.


    Zhiren himself appeared perfectly normal, chatting with eldest and second uncles as he took a cigarette handed out.


    Seeing the situation in the yard from the kitchen door, mother Zhou felt a chill inside. Her eyes happened to meet her niece''s, so she gestured for the girl toe over to the kitchen.


    Afraid too many people would make it inconvenient to talk, she took the girl into the adjacent room and immediately asked, "What''s going on? Is he dissatisfied with you?"


    She didn''t suspect her niece wasn''t good enough for Zhiren - with the girl''s looks and Zhiren being from her own younger sister''s family, if there was an issue, it had to be on his side.


    The only potential w was that he''d been married before, but none of the local girls could have married into their family anyway if not for it being his second marriage. That was clear to everyone beforehand, so there was nothing to nitpick over.


    The girl shook her head and sighed helplessly. "I feel like he doesn''t seem to like me."


    "How so?" Her niece was perfectly fine looking and nice tempered, outstanding in housework, and both families knew each other''s circumstances in advance. If Zhiren still didn''t like the match under these conditions, what kind of woman was he looking for?


    "Maybe he thinks I''m too young," the girl said. It seemed he''d suddenly turned cold towards her after asking her age.


    "Then tell auntie honestly, do you like him? You know he''s a bit older than you too."


    The girl''s face reddened slightly. Though she didn''t reply, her meaning was obvious.


    Zhiren''s looks and status were both too outstanding. She understood that missing this chance, it would be nearly impossible for her to find another match of simr standing.


    As for him being quite a few years older, she truly didn''t mind at all. Even if she found someone her own age in the vige, that boy still wouldn''t be nearly as handsome as Zhiren.


    Seeing her niece''s shy manner, mother Zhou understood everything. She instructed, "For marriage, affinity is also very important. As girls, we can''t appear too eager either. Other than our own families, no one else knows you came for the matchmaking. Just treat it as a regr family visit for now. Let auntie ask him what he thinks, then we''ll decide how to proceed. If it really doesn''t work out, don''t feel too disappointed. We''ll just take it as fate not being there. My outstanding niece will have even better matches awaiting her in the future."


    That was easy to say, but they both knew - having no issues finding a husband wasn''t a concern, since a great girl would be fought over. But actually marrying exceptionally well was not so simple.


    The girl had met another prospect from town previously that others already considered a good match, but he was inferior to Zhiren in looks, background and bearing, evening across arrogantly.


    Her bad impression had led the family to reject him without even considering the match.


    She was the only one who came over this time because of her trust in her auntie, as well as her parents recognizing both Zhou Nan and Zhiren''s father.


    In the past, the Zhou family elders had all sat around the same table, eating and chatting together during visits. That her parents would agree to send their daughter showed their good impression of Zhiren''s parents.


    Seeing the daughter-inw take the girl away, Granny Zhou also pulled Zhiren to a corner.


    ZhiXia was curious to know the oue too, so she quickly followed to listen in.


    Actually everyone in the yard wanted to know, but since it wasn''t finalized yet, it wasn''t suitable to talk openly about such matters. They could only hold in their curiosity for the time being.

 Chapter 237: He doesn鈥檛 know what he鈥檚 thinking because he鈥檚 not taking advantage.

    <h4>Chapter 237</h4>


    ��What do you think?��


    Zhi Xia had just leaned in when she heard Zhou Granny ask.


    An Zhiren shook his head, ��Granny, how could you lie to me? I��m already twenty-eight, the girl is only neen, that��s a difference of nine years. That��s too much, it won��t work.��


    Originally, Zhou Granny had said there was only a six year difference, so he had agreed toe and meet. In the countryside, people usually get married early. Like Zhou Zhi Zhi and Zhou Yuanyuan, who were engaged at eighteen or neen, and got married before twenty.


    Zhou Nan was also worried the girl might have some problems, butter he didn��t know what Zhou Granny had said to him to convince him toe.


    Now it seemed that what his mother had been whispering with Granny about was probably the girl��s age.


    ��What twenty-eight, that��s your ceremonial age. Your actual age is only twenty-seven. And this year has just started, you haven��t even had your birthday yet, so you can only count as twenty-six. The girl was born early this year so she��s twenty. That makes it exactly a six year difference, there��s no mistake.�� When Zhou Granny talked about these things, she waspletely shameless. She also didn''t know what was going through this grandson''s mind. People were happy to marry a young and pretty girl, yet he was the one finding fault.


    It was good that he knew he was older. He should quickly make a move at this good opportunity instead of being so picky about choosing a wife. Who didn''t want to bring good things into their own family? If the girl wasn''t actually pretty good, if she wasn''t her niece''s own daughter, she wouldn''t even bother to go through this trouble.


    An Zhiren felt very helpless. How could age be calcted like this?


    The way he calcted had to be by the actual age. Yet when it came to the girl''s side, she started counting in ceremonial age.


    Luckily he had cautiously asked the girl��s actual age, otherwise he would still have been kept in the dark.


    Seeing that he wasn''t talking, just hem-hawing around, Zhou Granny was truly furious. ��Zhiren, you''re older than the girl, not the other way around. And this is voluntary on both sides. You didn''t hide her age from her either, and no one is forcing the girl to agree. What on earth are you fussing about? If you can��t ept this match, what kind of girl are you looking for?��


    ��Pei Jing is eight years older than Zhi Xia. Over these years haven''t they been doing fine?�� Zhou Granny thought of this point to persuade him, and wearily rolled her eyes at him. ��I think we should do this - there��s still early. Take her out for a walk so you youngsters can chat more and get to know each other better. If you really think she��s pretty good, don��t fuss about that little age difference. She doesn��t look down on you, yet you��re the one looking down on her. If there really are other areas you find unsatisfactory and unsuitable, no one is forcing you to agree.��


    The aunt had juste out and happened to see them talking in the corner, so she walked over.


    ��What does Zhiren think over there?�� She smiled and said, ��Suchun was just praising what nice manners you have, and how good your speech is. But I don��t recognize many characters and can��t remember exactly what she said.��


    Of course Zheng Suchun hadn��t said this. Her meaning was just to let An Zhiren know that the girl��s side didn��t have any objections.


    Zhou Granny spoke first. ��Just a few sentences, how could anything be said. I was just telling Zhiren to take her out for a walk around outside. It��s good for young people to chat more and understand each other better.��


    ��That works too. I��ll go get Suchun.�� Hearing the meaning behind her words, she understood that there must be some hesitation still on An Zhiren��s side, and Zhou Granny was convincing him, which was why she suggested they go out for a walk.


    But this was still pretty good, there was still hope. At least better than having no hope at all.


    Zheng Suchun came out from the room. An Zhiren also couldn��t refuse to save face, so he could only say he would take her out for a walk.


    As soon as the two of them stepped out the door, Zhou Granny pulled Zhi Xia over toin. ��I don��t know what your brother is thinking. He doesn��t even want to take advantage of a good deal...��


    If it was for another reason, or they didn��t hit it off, she wouldn��t nag. But finding fault with the girl for being a bit younger, that was a little unjustifiable.


    In the past, the oldndlords and masters wanted to marry little wives when they were seventy or eighty. She just couldn��t figure it out, couldn��t figure it out at all.


    She had to say this quietly away from the daughter-inw, after all Zheng Suchun was her niece from her maternal side.


    Zhi Xia just smiled withoutmenting. Zhou Granny didn��t need her to say anything either, she just needed someone to listen to herining for a bit.


    Zhou Jianwen had really gone to dig for bamboo shoots with a hoe. She didn��t know how things were going on Yuan Bao��s side either. Zhi Xia took a small stool and sat under the peach tree by the door watching her child, while also waiting for Yuan Bao toe back.


    On the small path, An Zhiren walked in front, with Zheng Suchun a bit behind, looking at his straight and upright back. She worked up her courage and asked, ��Comrade An, let��s just speak frankly. I��ve taken a liking to you, how about you? Do you also like me?��


    No matter if it worked out or not, at least they would have a clear result, and save him from looking impatient.


    Although Zheng Suchun was from the countryside, she still had her own pride.


    An Zhiren had not expected her to ask so directly. In his heart he wanted to refuse, mainly still feeling the age difference was inappropriate. But under her zing gaze, the words he had prepared got stuck and he couldn��t say them.


    ��Do you like me or not, why is that so hard to answer?�� Zheng Suchun looked at him doubtfully, her embroidered brows slightly knitted.


    She closed the distance between them a little. An Zhiren hurriedly said, ��Comrade Zheng, I also told you about my circumstances before. I��m a full nine years older than you...��


    As for the issue of his second marriage, he didn��t care about it himself. Between him and Wang Caixiang, nothing had ever happened from beginning to end, including that day when Wang��s family members surrounded him. He had only been stripped of his clothes. He wasn��t muddled enough to be unsure of whether anything had actually happened or not.


    ��My aunt told me everything you said already. My family all knows too. I feel like these things shouldn��t be a reason for you to reject me. If you really don��t like me for some other reason, you can tell me directly.�� It was just a blind date, it was very normal if they didn��t hit it off. There were no issues in this area.


    After all, even if she had good feelings on a first meeting, at most she would just feel a little disappointed that they didn��t hit it off. She wasn��t the sort of person to make a big fuss over it.


    An Zhiren suddenly felt that his perception was probably somewhat wrong. His first impression was that she was a gentle and shy girl, but now, he also felt she was quite frank and cute.


    ...


    An Le Vige, Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister were in the kitchen chomping on rabbit meat, discussing how to get a couple small piglets to raise up in the mountains. They had raised fewerst year, but each pig still earned them over 100 yuan. Adding in the chickens, ducks and eggs, plus secretly opening upnd to farm, their annual ie was pretty good over the past few years. They were able to taste the sweetness of sess, and were full of drive at this time.


    If it wasn��t for having to keep the money they earned hidden, relying on the efforts of them as siblings over these years, how could they still not even be able to get married!


    Whenever Gao Dalin thought of this, he hated his own parents.


    They weren��t able to show their profits openly, yet still suffered from the issues this brought about.


    But from this it could also be seen that the quality of life for the two siblings over these years was still quite good.


    The rabbit meat smelled amazing. The two of them ate with mouths full of oil dripping down, and didn��t notice that at the kitchen door, there was a big furry rat, sniffing its nose as it drooled at the scene.

 Chapter 238: Robbed, Almost vomited Blood.

    <h4>Chapter 238</h4>


    "It''s settled then," Gao Second Sister said. "When you go to catch the piglets, don''t forget you need to get a sow so next year we can breed them ourselves. That way we won''t have to figure out how to find piglets every year."


    "Don''t worry, I know what I''m doing," Gao Dalin said gloomily. He casually threw the finished bone into the yard and said dejectedly, "Sis, we''ve saved quite a bit these past few years, but you know, we can''t spend it and working this hard seems meaningless."


    He still wanted to get a wife and have a son, so he''d at least have something to look forward toter in life.


    These past few years, he hadn''tcked food or clothing, but being single and alone, he couldn''t understand what he was working so hard for anymore.


    Gao Second Sister was very familiar with Gao Dalin''s temperament by now. Every two months he''d throw a fit like this - he was lovesick, typical.


    And these days he''d cut ties with the widow, so he had pent up lust with no outlet. His whole spirit had fallen quite a bit.


    Gao Second Sister looked down on him very much. What kind of man always had his mind in a woman''s crotch! But the work up the mountain required physicalbor, and without Gao Dalin, she couldn''t manage it alone as a woman. So she still had to coax him.


    "Brother, haven''t I told you already? Wait a few more years. You''re a man. As long as you have money, in a few years when things open up, there will be plenty of girls who want to marry you..."


    Gao Second Sister tried to persuade him, but Gao Dalin went from eager at the start to having heard so much his ears started to form calluses.


    "You''ve been saying that for years already! In a few more years I''ll be in my 30s!"


    Barely holding in her irritation, Gao Second Sister let out a long sigh.


    Gao Dalin''s marriage really was a problem, especially thest two years. He thought about women all day long. If they didn''t find a way to get him a woman soon, their days would be over.


    There was still half a rabbit left in the pot, but she hadpletely lost her appetite.


    Gao Second Sister''s face was cold. "I''ll find a way to get you a wife, but Gao Dalin, you remember this. If you ruin our business over a woman, I won''t let you off!"


    Gao Dalin wasn''t angry at being threatened. On the contrary, he looked at Gao Second Sister ingratiatingly, "Sis, don''t worry. You''re my sister by blood. Even if I get a wife, she''d just be a bed warmer. No matter when, we siblings will still be closest."


    Especially after their parents died a few years ago, Gao Dalin''s limited intelligence meant Gao Second Sister handled all the family affairs and enabled them to have the good life they did today. He wouldn''t be so muddled as to forget that.


    "You just remember clearly," Gao Second Sister said coldly with a snort.


    Yuan Bao hid by the kitchen door, looking at the thrown out bone still emanating fragrance, its mouth watering enough to make a puddle on the ground.


    But being half beast, even without fully transforming, it still had too much dignity to just lick a bone others had gnawed on.


    Hearing footsteps about to exit the kitchen, its body moved lightning fast to hide behind the woodpile by the kitchen door. It listened to the footsteps fading away along with the siblings'' voices before carefully poking its head out.


    With the two siblings gone, the Gao house was now empty and Yuan Bao''s domain. Its cute nose sniffed left and right until it found the aroma''s origin after searching the whole house.


    On the wall of the main room was a brick with a crack that Yuan Bao climbed up using the rough wall.


    Treasure rats were called treasure rats not just for their great treasure seeking ability, but also their extremely sharp ws.


    It scratched at the wall with its two ws, quickly wing out a big hole, causing a small package wrapped in sheepskin to fall out from inside.


    Yuan Bao sniffed it closely several times - this was the right smell.


    It picked up the package wanting to leave but stopped at the wardrobe.


    The package in its mouth dropped to the ground as it eyed the cab, then leapt towards it the next second.


    Gao Second Sister was a prudent, clever woman. Even in her own home, she split her money into several parts hidden in different ces.


    She nned well - even if thieves broke in, they wouldn''t be able to urately find every ce she stashed money.


    But she absolutely didn''t expect the thief to be a rat - a treasure rat at that - with an innate sensitivity towards treasures.


    When Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister finished work and came down from the mountain, they returned home to see the messy state of affairs, with dirty, chaotic beds and cabs and several big holes scratched into the walls, looking as if they were wed by rats.


    But could rats have such great fighting power?


    Gao Dalin went forward and lifted the quilt on the bed, only to find rat droppings and urine mixed together in the most disgusting stench that turned his stomach.


    Gao Second Sister checked her money stashes and found that at all 7 ces, all the savings they''d scrimped over the years were gone without a trace.


    And at every location were signs of the rat havoc.


    This was the first time her face twisted in anger since obtaining that thing.


    "Sis, it looks like we poked a rat''s nest huh?" Gao Dalin frowned tightly, unable to understand how so many rats could create this level of destruction.


    "I''m afraid things aren''t so simple," Gao Second Sister said heavily.


    It wasmon for rats to make a mess of things, but why would they steal money? And the money was gone from every location without any torn or chewed remnants left behind.


    On the other hand, the clothes in the wardrobe and quilts on the bed were bitten through revealing the insides.


    Could it be a rat demon?


    "What do we do now? I checked my money stash just now and all the pocket money you gave me is gone!" Over the years their ie was pretty good, but Gao Second Sister held most of it. She only gave Gao Dalin some pocket money, otherwise he wouldn''t have money to woo widows either.


    Of course, she did this partly because Gao Dalin knew his limits, and she could paint him big pictures of the future.


    But no matter why, Yuan Bao''s arrival this time still turned all their years of hard work into nothing.


    Gao Second Sister probably wouldn''t regret it even if she knew the truthter - that if Gao Dalin hadn''t torn out the important pages of the notebook, Xia Zhi would never have sent Yuan Bao to rob them blind, which led to their loss today.


    It''s just, every cause has an effect right?


    "I''m going right now to buy rat poison, damn pests! I won''t rest until I''ve wiped out eight generations of them!" Hearing Gao Second Sister exin, Gao Dalin couldn''t stand it a moment longer and yelled about buying poison.


    Gao Second Sister didn''t stop him either. No matter what, they still had to live, and they had to solve this rodent problem at home first.


    Walking to the bedside and looking at the quilt she had newly stuffed with cotton at New Year''s, now wed into an unrecognizable state and imprinted with yellowish stains, the rank sweetness overwhelmed her senses until she forcefully suppressed it.

 Chapter 239: The Son of Doubt Knew All Along

    <h4>Chapter 239</h4>


    Zhi Xia was still sitting at the door watching arge group of children, with her palm propping up her chin and a smile that she just couldn''t hide.


    When An Zhiren and Zheng Suchun came back from outside, both of their expressions were still pretty good, but it was still unknown whether it went well or not.


    "Second brother, Ms. Zheng, you''re back," Zhi Xia cheerfully greeted them with a smile. The result of the blind date was still unknown, so calling her sister-inw was definitely inappropriate.


    An Zhiren nodded slightly. Zheng Suchun also said heartily: "You are Zhi Xia, right? I''ve heard about you for a long time. You really are as beautiful as the rumors say, and your child is also very cute."


    When she was in the yard earlier, seeing Zhi Xia gave her a feeling of her eyes lighting up, but she just didn''t have a chance to speak.


    There is a saying that a niece resembles her aunt. If she could really be his sister-inw, she also wondered if she would have the chance to give birth to a daughter as beautiful as her.


    The love for beauty lies in all people, and since they were not familiar with each other on their first meeting, looks were definitely the first thing one would notice about the other. Zheng Suchun did not deny that she really admired An Zhiren��s appearance.


    If you look closely, Zhi Xia and An Zhiren actually look quite simr, both resembling Zhou Nan.


    "Thank you, you are also very beautiful," Zhi Xia said. No woman doesn��t like to be praised for her looks, and Zhi Xia felt the same.


    Granny Zhou called from the yard, "Zhi Xia, your second brother is back, right?"


    "Yes, Granny," Zhi Xia quickly replied.


    "Now that they��re back, let��s eat. Call the children back to wash their hands first," Granny Zhou said.


    The table and chopsticks were already set up in the main hall, just waiting for An Zhiren toe back and eat.


    Zhi Xia called the children back into the yard. Therge group of children was noisy and a bit headache-inducing to look at.


    "Chenye, where is your sister?" Zhi Xia looked around but didn''t see Pei Wanqinge back.


    "She just went to the bamboo forest over there. She probably didn''t hear us calling her. Mom, you eat first. I��ll go take a look," Pei Chenye said before running out.


    "Wen Qing, you and your siblings go wash your hands first. I��ll go out to check," Zhi Xia said with concern for the child before hurrying out to chase after Chenye.


    Noticing the situation here, An Zhiren also hurried to follow.


    By the time they got out the door to the bamboo forest, they saw two children squatting in the bamboo forest as if looking for something.


    "Chenye, Wanqing, what are you two doing?" Zhi Xia helplessly called out to them.


    Seeing that the children were just squatting in the bamboo forest, An Zhiren knew nothing was wrong and felt relieved as he went back.


    Hearing Zhi Xia''s voice, Wanqing quickly turned her head and waved at her, "Mom,e here quick,e see, there��s a beautiful big mouse here..."


    A beautiful big mouse? Upon hearing this, Zhi Xia immediately strode over.


    The bamboo forest was not big, just a small area. There were also some dried weeds inside where the two children were squatting next to a clump of them.


    Yuan Bao felt quite helpless. It had painstakingly dragged a small sack, taking a roundabout route along the riverbank and woods to avoid the crowds.


    Just as it barely made it back, it was blocked here by the young master��s cubs. It did want to run away, but the things its owner asked it to find were still in the sack. It could only helplessly squat here watching over them.


    Hearing its owner��s voice, Yuan Bao finally let go of the sack and scurried over to Zhi Xia.


    Indeed, as Zhi Xia had guessed, the ��beautiful big mouse�� in Wanqing��s words was Yuan Bao.


    She squatted down and stretched out her hand for Yuan Bao to climb onto. Then she saw Wanqing pointing to the small sack on the ground, ��Mom, look, the pretty mouse dragged it here.��


    Although the white mouse was very beautiful, she didn��t dare touch it and could only squat here watching.


    But when she turned her head, she saw that beautiful mouse sitting in her mom''s palm. Shocked, she opened her mouth, "Mom, you touched the mouse..."


    Yuan Bao squeaked incessantly. It was not a big mouse at all. It was clearly a cute treasure-hunting mouse.


    How could ordinary micepare to it? Speaking of status, it was the rodent king, able tomand tens of thousands of rats with a single order.


    Just look at the siblings�� family. Everything they did was ordered by its subordinates.


    Daring to offend its owner, the punishment they received was already letting them off easy.


    Yuan Bao was filled with fighting spirit, but unfortunately no one could understand its words.


    Zhi Xia walked over and picked up the sack from the ground. Squatting down, she solemnly told the two children, "Chenye, Wanqing, this is not an ordinary mouse. Its name is Yuan Bao. It is mom''s little pet. But we can''t tell others, understand..."


    "Oh I see. It��s just like my pet Da Huang. But why can��t we tell others?" Wanqing asked nkly.


    "I��ll exin more when we get home. For now, just answer mom��can you promise not to tell others?" Zhi Xia still had confidence in the two little ones. Since they were young, due to the great food at home, she had always taught them to keep things secret from outsiders, and they had never slipped up before.


    Although they still didn��t understand why, the two obedient children nodded.


    "Alright, hurry back and wash your hands for dinner. Mom will be right there," Zhi Xia said.


    After she spoke, Chenye pulled Wanqing up. From beginning to end, he only said one sentence, "Then mom should hurry back for dinner too."


    The son was young but always precocious. Zhi Xia suspected that the boy had known about her secrets all along but just didn��t say anything, just like his dad.


    She remembered that when they were even younger, she cooked them emperor crabs to eat. Little Wanqing kept asking questions nonstop, driving Zhi Xia crazy. Only Chenye told her to eat more and talk less.


    Pushing these thoughts out of her mind, Zhi Xia put Yuan Bao back into her space and filled its food bowl with meat.


    Having watched them gnaw on rabbit meat earlier, Yuan Bao had been drooling with desire. Now it stuffed its whole head into the bowl, eating with great delight.


    Zhi Xia opened the sack. The first thing that caught her eye was the dazzling amount of money and promissory notes.


    Had Yuan Bao swept the entire Anle Vige clean?


    Zhi Xia reached in with puzzlement, confirming that the things she wanted were inside before taking the whole sack into her space.


    The Zhou family��s lunch today was very abundant. The adults all sat at the big table while several smaller children had a separate table to themselves. The two sisters-inw were over there taking care of the children. Zhi Xia had originally wanted to sit on that side as well but was pulled over to the big table by her aunt.


    She said that since Zhi Xia so rarely came, she was an honored guest of the family.


    Zhi Xia politely declined twice but could only ept the enthusiasm and go over.


    Despiteing to the Zhou home many times before, Zheng Suchun had never felt as restrained as she did today. She was pulled by the aunt to sit next to Zhi Xia.


    The aunt actually wanted her son and niece to sit together more but didn��t want to appear too eager since the result of their trip out had not yet been asked about.


    That te of stir-fried bamboo shoots and meat was ced in front of Zhi Xia. It really was quite delicious.


    She had eaten it before too, winter bamboo shoots in winter and spring bamboo shoots in spring. But putting meat in the dish was impossible, not even willing to add salt to the nd tastelessness.


    After lunch, the young aunt brought the two sisters-inw to clean up while Granny Zhou and the eldest daughter-inw separately asked An Zhiren and Zheng Suchun about the results of the blind date.


    On the way back from Zhou Vige, Zhi Xia asked An Zhiren, "Second brother, did you take a liking to her?"

 Chapter 240: The Secrets of Past Lives

    <h4>Chapter 240</h4>


    An Zhirenughed. Instead of answering, he asked back, "Little sister, do you think I should ept the match?"


    His tone was normal, but the word "should" revealed the bitterness within.


    Knowing his sadness, Xia smiled. "I don''t think Second Brother should rush. Marriage is a lifelongmitment that deserves careful consideration."


    Besides, it had only been a month since An Zhiren''s divorce. To enter another marriage so quickly did not seem appropriate.


    The influence of Wang Caixiang could not disappear so fast.


    An Zhiren also wanted to wait, but his family pressed him urgently. Plus, he was at an age where further dy was impossible.


    Finding a partner close to his age was not easy now. If he waited longer, the gap would widen, which would be even more inappropriate.


    "I agreed. Barring incident, I''ll be married in about two months," An Zhiren said.


    Xia was shocked. "So fast? Are you sure you shouldn''t think it over?"


    If regrets emerged after the wedding, divorce could not easily resolve them.


    "Zheng Suchun is a decent woman. Her only downside iscking an urban household registration, but she agreed we would live separately after marrying."


    He would not have agreed to this matchmaking session without clearing the household registration issue upfront. So that could not be his reason for declining.


    One had to know one''s ce. In looks and situation, Zheng Suchun was not subpar. If not bound to the countryside, she likely would not have considered him - a divorced man fast approaching middle age.


    As for work, An Zhiren never expected a wife with a career. He had be director and earned a pay raise these past two years. As long as they avoided extravagant spending, his ie would suffice.


    Given his status now, an urban wife would bring a few scenarios: demanding work to avoid being sent to the countryside; or capable but fault-finding; or in looks. He did not want his future generation dragged down by subpar genes.


    Compared to those options, Zheng Suchun was beautiful and graduated middle school. Her agreeable personality and willingness to self-sustain after marriage made her the best of the four or five women he had met this past month.


    Xia understood now. With age came pragmatic considerations beyond pure emotion.


    This was An Zhiren''s thinking.


    His insistence on self-sustainability did not rule out some elder oversight. Zhou Nan''s health had declined the past two years, but she did raise Wen Qing. If all the daughters-inw started demanding childcare assistance, Zhou Nan could hardly refuse without showing favoritism.


    Foreseeing this, Second Brother directly told Zheng Suchun the family circumstances when she expressed hope for a chance. It avoided potential disharmony down the road.


    Zheng Suchun wanted to seize this opportunity to change her fate. An Zhiren obtained what he wanted too. It benefitted both.


    By the time Xia returned home, dusk approached. The triplets still slept. After a day ying wildly, the twins and Wen Qing had also dozed off in the car.


    She tucked the children into bed before retreating into her room and space.


    Yuanbao''s food bowl was empty; it currently rested in its personal nest. The little pouch it brought back sat on the living room table.


    Xia dumped the pouch��s contents onto the table. Apart from some paper, there was money and vouchers.


    She counted the cash: nearly eight hundred yuan total! Plus a thick stack of vouchers. She was shocked.


    In just a few years, how did Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin save so much? Yuanbao must have stolen all their savings!


    Gazing at the guileless Yuanbao snoozing in its nest, Xiaughed helplessly.


    She had only instructed Yuanbao to steal the paper. Obtaining money was purely incidental. But since stolen, there was no returning it. The siblings would just have to chalk up the loss to bad luck.


    Xia set the money and vouchers aside for now and opened thembskin packet, pulling out the stack of paper within.


    To her surprise, the entire stack recorded matters about the An and Pei families!


    From Gao Meiyun��s perspective. So the portrayal was iplete, covering only what she knew.


    Compared to the first lifetime, Pei Jing had already passed military discharge - implying he avoided the cmity that previously triggered discharge. Their ensuing lives would reshuffle.


    Apart from Xia��s non-participation, Pei JianGuo''s life held minimal change so far.


    An Zhiren��s path had swerved. In the previous life, Wang Caixiang also schemed against him, but the divorce happened two yearster, past age thirty. He remarried an acrid woman and divorced again, remaining single thereafter.


    His decision to marry Zheng Suchun now would bypass that woman. Though there was no telling how his new marriage would unfold.


    Likely Xia birthing triplets precipitated his earlier divorce from Wang Caixiang, altering the original trajectory.


    The records also covered an uing major event. Old Pei would pass next year from illness, leaving the house to newborn Pei Yuhao under Pei Jing''s supervision. At Old Pei��s funeral, the olddy would unexpectedly pass too. Overwhelmed, the old man would join them dayster.


    Without elders holding the Pei family together, rtions gradually faded. Eventually, both main family lines moved away for unknown reasons. An Meixia and son relocated overseas.


    Likely until his death, Pei Jing never realized the person unintentionally bedding An Meixia was him. Pei Yuhao was actually their son.


    Pei JianGuo was an idiot for blindly ming others without even knowing if he ever slept with a woman. Serves him right for iming his brother''s son!


    Reading this, even Xia��s fingers trembled.


    What on earth happened?


    Why did Gao Meiyun say Pei JianGuo and An Meixia''s son belonged to Pei Jing?


    For the first time, she felt an intense desire to uncover details about the first lifetime.


    In frenzied searching, Xia found no personal records, only the asional appearance of ��An Meixia�� in others�� worlds - mostly Gao Meiyun��s curses. Revealing the depth of hatred towards Xia��s return.


    ��Xia...the child is crying. Should Ie in to help?��


    Zhou Nan��s sudden voice and a wailing child broke Xia��s absorption. But the closed door blocked Zhou Nan.


    Hurriedly stuffing everything back into thembskin pouch and drawer, Xia exited the space.


    For now, she would not trade these items to the trader. After all, they concerned loved ones. The information might prove useful someday.

 Chapter 241: There鈥檚 a Baby Down There

    <h4>Chapter 241</h4>


    She hurried out of the space and went to open the door first.


    Zhou Nan''s gaze had not yet fallen on Zhi Xia, but rather through her to look at the child on the bed behind her, squeezing in and rushing to the bedside, hugging the one on the edge and coaxing him.


    "Baby, why are you crying so badly, are you hungry?" Zhou Nan looked up at her and asked.


    Zhi Xia took a look and was busy making milk powder, "Maybe, I''ll go make some milk powder to feed."


    Zhou Nan saw Zhi Xia''s expression was a little wrong, as if her mind was a little distracted.


    But facing this daughter, she didn''t dare say much more, she could only go first to check if the babies'' diapers needed changing.


    With the family here now, the house was quickly crowded.


    Zhi Xia was also preupied, so she simply left the child for them to take care of and went out to the yard herself.


    The spring breeze stirred gently, bringing a hint of coolness, blowing away the hint of doubt in her heart.


    No matter what the truth was in that life, after all, this life was the most important, and it was what she was experiencing. Why bother worrying about things she didn''t know?


    After figuring it out, Zhi Xia smiled relievedly.


    She didn''t know when An Zhiren came to her side, reached out and rubbed her head, and asked her in a pampering tone, "What''s wrong? Do you have something on your mind?"


    "No." Zhi Xia shook her head, then looked at him yfully and said, "I was just wondering, when brother gets married, what kind of gift should I give you, or does brother have any desired wedding gifts?"


    Knowing that it was even more unfortunate for An Zhiren to have married another woman, it made Zhi Xia like the Zheng Suchun she saw today even more.


    She was a gentle and beautiful woman, and she seemed to like the second brother very much. With Zhou Granny as the matchmaker, the girl and her family''s character would not be too bad either.


    Not only did An Zhiren not refuse, but he seriously considered it, "Make a set of clothes for my second brother, to wear on the wedding day."


    He didn''t care much about the wedding before, but now, he attached great importance to it.


    He also wanted a lively and warm wedding, to let others see.


    "Okay." Zhi Xia agreed.


    An Zhiren raised the corners of his lips. After years of setbacks, he finally had a glimmer of hope for the future.


    With both sides in agreement, next was the engagement, exchange of gifts, which An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan had to go to the Zheng''s house personally to discuss.


    Zhi Xia had stayed here for a few days, and now wanted to take the children back.


    Zhou Nan still wanted to keep her here for a few more days, using the excuse that An Zhiren would be picking up Zheng Suchun to go shopping in the city in a few days. But Zhi Xia rejected it.


    The matter of Old Pei''s passing away in the second half of next year could not be dyed.


    On the third day after Zhi Xia went back, Old Pei couldn''t persuade her. She forcibly took him to the hospital on the pretext of his cough, and even made him take a blood test to check his body, purely taking his pulse was not enough.


    When they came out of the hospital, Old Pei looked at her helplessly, "I told you it was just a smoking cough, now do you believe it? Just looking at my age, ordinary young people can''tpare to me. Don''t worry about me, I''m fine."


    Just gave the hospital several dors for no reason, and drew such a big tube of his blood. How much food would it take to replenish that?


    But Zhi Xia had good intentions. At his age, over 70 years old, it was still best to be more careful.


    As soon as he heard that he should smoke less, Old Pei quickly changed the subject, "Let''s hurry back home, the few children are at home, Xiao Zhang can''t take care of them alone."


    He had smoked all his life and never quit. And at his age, every extra day alive was a profit. The most important thing was to live a happy life afterwards. Why bother make things difficult for himself?


    Seeing him like this, Zhi Xia knew he didn''t take her and the doctor''s words to heart.


    In fact, Old Pei''s idea was not wrong either. After all, at his advanced age, he just wanted to live more freely. But as the younger generation, she still hoped that the elderly at home could be healthy and live to a hundred years old.


    ording to the trajectory of the previous life, this old man left the house to Pei Yuhao. He was probably truly distressed about An Meixia and her son, afraid they would have no one to rely on after he passed away, so he let Pei Jing supervise and protect them.


    Old Pei had a bodyguard with him. Zhi Xia took another trip to the supply and marketing cooperative.


    Of course she didn''t buy anything, just made it look like she was shopping. She took out the fabric she needed to make clothes from her space.


    An Zhiren had originally wanted to use two months to prepare for the wedding, but it happened to coincide with the spring harvest at that time. On the advice of Zhou Granny, it was brought forward by half a month, just right in April.


    After returning home and closing the door, Zhi Xia took out a piece of fabric simr to that of Dexinliang from her space, preparing to make a short-sleeved shirt, matched with a pair of suit pants.


    Yuan Bao hadn''t been eating well these past two days. Usually it could eat a bowlful, but now its appetite had been directly reduced by half. It stayed in its nest looking dispirited and listless.


    Zhi Xia took it out and held it in the palm of her hand, "What''s wrong Yuan Bao?"


    Before Zhi Xia could finish speaking, it jumped to the ground and ran wildly around the room, wing at the cracks in the door to look outside, screaming, looking like it wanted to go out.


    Zhi Xia suddenly realized, "Yuan Bao, are you too bored staying in the space that you want toe out?"


    It was her negligence. The space that came with the trading device was only the size of a few rooms. The only ce Yuan Bao could move around was the living room. She couldn''t always stay inside, so with just one hamster, it must have been terribly boring.


    Sure enough, as soon as Zhi Xia asked, it frantically nodded its little head.


    It was a treasure hunting hamster. It was born with a sense for treasures. It could go out and find treasures for its owner.


    Unfortunately, the two were of different species, so Zhi Xia couldn''t understand itsnguage.


    "You can go out, just y in our own yard. Chenye and Wanqing already know of your existence anyway, you can also go y with them. But outside the yard is too dangerous, best not to go..."


    No matter how good looking Yuan Bao was, it was still a rat. There was no such thing as pet rats now. If it ran out and was seen by people, it would definitely be beaten to death as a pest.


    Yuan Bao''s ears visibly drooped again. Zhi Xia helplessly patted its head, "You little guy is quite wild. I''m just afraid of you getting beaten to death if you go out!"


    Whatever it said, Zhi Xia couldn''t understand anyway.


    But Yuan Bao came over and tugged at Zhi Xia''s pants leg, looking excited and impatient.


    Zhi Xia followed it and was led to the corner of the back wall of the yard.


    It made a lot of squeaking noises, constantly digging the soil below, soon digging a fist-sized hole, letting its body burrow into the ground. After a while its head popped up again, its eyes shining brightly at Zhi Xia.


    Zhi Xia suddenly realized, "There wouldn''t happen to be any treasures down there, would there?"


    Under Zhi Xia''s questioning gaze, Yuan Bao frantically nodded its little head.


    Dig down, dig out the treasure, and when its owner sees its abilities, it should be allowed to go out searching for treasures then!


    Having been in that magical ce for several days, although there was nock of food and drink, it was really about to go crazy from being pent up!

 Chapter 242: Digging What Can鈥檛 Be Dug

    <h4>Chapter 242</h4>


    Old Pei hurriedly pulled it over and held it in his palm, "My little ancestor, even if there is something down there, we can''t dig randomly. The things down there belong to someone. Someone hid them there, so if we dig them up, that''s theft, stealing someone else''s stuff!"


    But she was still puzzled in her heart about who buried this stuff in the corner of her backyard?


    Was it Old Pei?


    Or was it hidden by the An family before they moved here?


    Upon hearing that he couldn''t dig, Yuan Bao immediately drooped his head, looking somewhat disappointed.


    "I know you want to prove your ability, and I''m not saying I don''t believe in you. It''s just that we can''t touch things that belong to others, or else the owners will be very sad when they lose their stuff." Zhi Xia restored the soil Yuan Bao had dug up to its original state. Seeing him looking so dejected, she said helplessly: "How about this - if you really want to go treasure hunting, look for those abandoned yards where no one lives, or deste wilderness..."


    At the same time, Zhi Xia was thinking that she should also give Yuan Bao ess rights to the space. This little guy didn''t seem to like staying cooped up all the time. Letting him out would make her worry he might get lost or encounter some danger. But if he had space ess rights, she could summon him back anytime, so there''d be no need to worry.


    "Zhi Xia, what are you doing?" Old Pei''s voice suddenly appeared behind her, giving Zhi Xia a shock.


    Soon after, two children came running up excitedly shouting "Mommy!".


    Zhi Xia looked back and saw the panicked expression on Old Pei''s face, and realized that he was aware of the things buried underground here.


    "Dad, I haven''t had a chance to tell you yet - I adopted a pet named Yuan Bao. Just now he dug a hole here, but I''ve filled it up already." Zhi Xia put Yuan Bao down on the ground. The palm-sized white rat was covered in mud, its fluffy fur not looking as scary as an ordinary rat, but rather cute and adorable instead.


    "So it''s a rat? What breed is this?" Old Pei was very worried. Rats were not the same as dogs. There were also kids in the house. If this critter went crawling all over the ce and onto their beds...


    What was Zhi Xia thinking, adopting a rat instead of some other pet, and not even keeping it locked up in a cage!


    "I picked it up, no idea what breed it is. But Yuan Bao seems especially sensitive towards treasures and such." Seeing the look of disdain in Old Pei''s eyes, Zhi Xia knew what he was thinking.


    She couldn''t me him. Nowadays, the only pets ordinary folks kept were cats and dogs. Keeping a rat was indeed hard to understand.


    Luckily Yuan Bao was rather good-looking, otherwise Old Pei might have tried to catch the rat upon first sight.


    These words clearly revealed some secrets about her little friend, giving Old Pei food for thought.


    So this rat could seek out treasure, that''s why it dug a hole here.


    He had tough at himself for even entertaining the idea.


    Whether true or not, these were her things to begin with, so telling her about them earlier didn''t make a difference.


    "Since you discovered this ce today, I might as well just tell you everything." Old Pei told Pei Chenye to take his sister outside first. Without any hesitation, Pei Chenye pulled Wanqing along and left.


    After they had gone far away, Old Pei patted the ground beneath their feet and continued, "Buried down here are your family''s belongings, hidden away by your grandfather. This yard was originally intended as Wanqing''s dowry, but unfortunately..." Old Pei heaved a sigh as he said this - it was also why he had no choice but to take over this yard back then.


    Because by then, Zhi Xia''s little aunt had already passed away, and it was very difficult for the An family to sneak those things out from under heavy surveince.


    Her grandfather had given Old Pei the deed to the yard, partly because he wanted someone to guard those buried belongings.


    Even the greatest man would inevitably have some selfishness. The An family did a lot of good deeds, donating most of their money and assets, but understandably still wished to leave some things behind for their descendants.


    And those things were originally Wanqing''s dowry. Now that she was gone, keeping them at least allowed them to cherish her memory.


    Of course, while the buried objects didn''t belong to Old Pei, the yard itself was indeed given to him - it was the old grandfather''s affection as well aspensation for guarding those things.


    "Dad, you knowing about these things is enough. I only chanced upon this ce today because of Yuan Bao." They weren''t her things, so Zhi Xia didn''t covet them.


    However, Old Pei guarding those things for so many years without any selfish intentions proved why the old grandfather trusted him so much - he must have really treated them like his own children.


    "A couple years ago your grandfather already said, everything buried down there now belongs to you. He was worried you rash youngsters might not know the value of things, that''s why he didn''t tell you. Now that you''ve found it, letting you know is for the best too. That way when we two old geezers kick the bucket one day, at least we''ve had a chance to exin things clearly." Back then when Old Pei talked about donating the house, he really was just trying to scare Wang Yue.


    Just the things buried underground alone meant there was no way he could simply donate the ce on a spur of the moment decision.


    Once this matter was discussed, it would be treated as forgotten. Old Pei wouldn''t bring it up with her a second time either.


    Zhi Xia also gave Yuan Bao ess to connect with her trading system, and once again spent all her Star Coins down to thest penny.


    It seemed like a lot of things had happenedtely, hence she kept earning less than she spent.


    But this incident also made Zhi Xia suddenly think of establishing a connection with Pei Jing, so she wouldn''t have to suffer from lovesickness anymore.


    Currently, the children could all enter the space, they just didn''t know about it themselves, which was why they never came in before.


    "Chenye, Wanqing,e in for a bit..." Zhi Xia suddenly recalled something and called towards the doorway.


    "Mommy, we''re ying with Yuan Bao and Big Yellow! What do you want us for?" Wanqing didn''t dare go near Zhi Xia, because she had just touched Big Yellow.


    Even though mommy herself had also touched Yuan Bao, she still wasn''t allowed to touch her after touching Big Yellow, or her younger brothers. Her older brother disliked her too.


    Zhi Xia closed the door after bringing them inside, then looked at the two curious kids and said, "Mommy''s going to tell you a secret, but you have to promise not to tell anyone else - including grandpa, grandma, grandfather or your uncles, understand?"


    "Don''t worry mom, I''m very good at keeping secrets," Wanqing assured her. Her eyes shifted as she asked, "We''re going to eat yummy stuff right? Mommy mommy, I want to eat those huge shrimps, reaaally big ones, as big as..." She looked at her chubby arm, "as big as my arm! Those huge shrimps that are super yummy and fun!"


    She loved them so much.


    But she hadn''t gotten to eat them sinceing back here.


    She wanted them a lot, but her brother wouldn''t let her talk about it. Her brother said those giant shrimps were only avable in the ce daddy was at. If she talked about them, it would make mommy very awkward.


    Seeing her innocent and adorable daughter, Zhi Xiaughed, "As long as you keep the secret properly, we can be just like when we were with daddy. You can eat whatever you want."


    "Oh...that''s awesome..."


    She excitedly spun around twice on the spot, still holding Pei Chenye''s little hand while chattering away, only to be brushed off withints, "Wanqing Pei, you just touched Big Yellow, and you touched Yuan Bao too..." Yuan Bao still had mud on him!


    And now she took hold of his hand too, getting him all dirty as well.

 Chapter 243: Ahn Ji-in鈥檚 Marriage, A Sudden Surprise

    <h4>Chapter 243</h4>


    An Zhiren told Xia and the two children a lot of things, because safety was the most important ce that needed protection.


    In the space, she also made them a big meal so that they could eat their fill.


    The house was not expanded at the moment, so there was only one bedroom. Xia could only tidy up a corner in the living room and thoughtfully spread a nket there, taking out many toys for them to sit there and y.


    These toys were prepared by her long ago. She was afraid of being discovered by others, so she didn''t dare take them to the real world. The two children also never had a chance to y with them before.


    Seeing that the two of them were ying by themselves without making any noise, Xia simply took the triplets in as well so that she didn''t have to wait on them herself and could actually rx more.


    Never envy others who have multiple births, because only when you raise them yourself do you know how tiring it can be.


    After Xia exited the space, she closed the door and told Sister Zhang that the few children were sleeping inside.


    Big Huang ran over with Yuanbao clinging to its fat body. It ran swaying back and forth but didn''t seem to mind the creature on its back falling off.


    Yet unknown to most, in order to tame Big Huang to be its subordinate, Yuanbao had just given it a beating.


    After all, they were different species and could notmunicate smoothly. They could only talk with their fists.


    Yuanbao had juste out of the space and still felt it was fresh, but after ying for two days, it was no longer willing to stay at home.


    It started to run out every day, to the point that even Xia could not find it.


    But inside the space, there umted many things that Yuanbao had found - most were dirty, covered in mud, like antiques, Buddha statues, gold, silver, and jade items...


    All were damp, as if they had been salvaged from the mud.


    Every time, Xia had to take them to the bathroom to wash them clean before carefully preserving them.


    She had guessed correctly - these things had indeed been fished out of the river by Yuanbao.


    In previous years when the crackdown was at its most severe, many things had been thrown into the river channels and sunk into the silt, hidden from daylight.


    And Yuanbao had an innate sense for these types of things. But it was not limited to this - it also had an innate sense for many natural treasures, minerals, precious nts, and more.


    Later, the things Yuanbao found were too many and too misceneous. Xia was toozy to handle them anymore. She simply opened up a piece ofnd outside the house specially to pile up the things Yuanbao brought back.


    Of course, that was allter.


    Ever since the two children found out about the existence of the space, they would sleep inside at night.


    Time flew by, and soon it was time for An Zhiren''s wedding.


    Since the distance was far, he went to pick up the bride before dawn.


    Wearing the new clothes Xia made for him and matching new shoes, with a red flower pinned to his chest, as soon as he entered the vige, crowds of older men and women surrounded him, saying how handsome he looked and what a good match Su Chun found.


    Even so, by the time they returned, it was already noon.


    Zheng Suchun wore a dress of the same style, also made by Xia. But the shoes were bought by An Zhiren for her. She had colored red lipstick on her lips and her hair pinned at the back. She wore a bright red crabapple flower, and with some slight dolling up, she looked even brighter.


    The two standing together really made a handsome couple, matching each other very well.


    Zhou Nan kept smiling and greeted people, evidently truly happy, as the whole wedding process went very smoothly.


    Silently under the night sky, An Zhiren took Zheng Suchun back to his new home.


    The housing for staff which he had lived in before had already been returned to the school. Now it was an independent small courtyard house. Although the house was not as big as the An''s, it was still enough for husband and wife, and would still be spacious enough to raise two childrenter.


    The couple had only seen each other once when they met to get engaged. After that he took her into the city to buy things once. Today was their wedding, marking the third time they met.


    As they weren''t too familiar to begin with, on the road they could still chat for a bit. But upon entering the house and seeing the big red bedspread on the bed and the "double happiness" character stuck to the bed headboard, they inevitably felt somewhat awkward as well as indescribably excited.


    "I''ll wash up first." April was already quite hot. Covered in sweat after a busy day, not to mention the smell of smoke from cigarettes and quite some alcohol from being indulged by his brothers, An Zhiren said.


    There was a bathing area just outside the house, with water drawn from the well that came out warm.


    After An Zhiren finished bathing himself, he also brought in two buckets of clean water.


    Wearing shorts and a short-sleeved shirt, he came back into the room to see Zheng Suchun lifting the covers picking out peanuts and lotus seeds. Blushing, she wondered who had helped make the bed, putting so many peanuts and lotus seeds - were they wishing for them to have that many children?!


    When An Zhiren came in, he said to her, "I brought water into the bathing area, it''s still warm. Why don''t you go wash up too."


    "Oh, alright." Zheng Suchun put down the full te on the table. Not daring to look at An Zhiren, she only said on her way out, "I made you a cup of tea on the table to help you sober up."


    She had originally wanted to cook a hangover soup in the kitchen but since there was nothing in the house she could only make do with brewing some tea.


    "Thanks," An Zhiren quietly responded, the corners of his lips curving slightly upwards.


    Suddenly he was full of hope for their future life together.


    When Zheng Suchun came back, An Zhiren was leaning against the bedhead reading a book seriously. She was a little afraid to disturb him.


    Sensing her return, An Zhiren casually put the book aside and gently raised his head to look at her. "Tired after a long day? Why note to bed?"


    "I''m tired." She was just nervous.


    Carefully getting into bed, Zheng Suchun''s heart was still thumping loudly.


    Nervously lifting the big red quilt, she carefullyy down, immediately pulling it up to her neck.


    An Zhiren smiled helplessly.


    It was so hot, yet she didn''t seem to mind being all bundled up.


    "Is the door bolted?" he asked, seemingly casual.


    "Bolted," Zheng Suchun replied nkly, wondering if he was asking because he wanted to head out.


    Suddenly, An Zhiren flipped off the quilt she had tightly wrapped herself in and pressed down on top of her.


    The sudden weight made her heart beat even faster and her breathing was gradually taken away as stifled moans escaped from her throat.


    "Rx, don''t be nervous," his gentle voice was like a feather tickling her heart, making her involuntarily follow his rhythm...


    Rx... Even more...


    An Zhiren was also extremely nervous on the inside and had no experience to rely on. He could only fumble by instinct. If he wasn''t careful, he could really hurt her.


    Clumsilypleting their first time, it was as if he was addicted - along with deeper exploration, he became more and more adept!


    Xia did not have dinner at home. Everyone in the family was busy today and no one could take care of her. She also didn''t dare walk alone at night. So before it turned dark, she hurried back.


    The ringing bell on her bicycle resounded in the small alley. But the figure ahead did not budge.


    Xia hurriedly rang the bell a few more times, intending to circle around him.


    But uponing closer, she realized that silhouette was so familiar!


    Xia''s eyes widened instantly, revealing an ecstatic expression. Putting her bicycle off to the side, she immediately threw herself at that figure.


    "Didn''t you say you used up all your vacation this year? How did you get back so fast? We just spoke on the phone a few days ago and you didn''t even tell me!" Xia nestled into his embrace, hugging his neck coquettishly.

 Chapter 244: It鈥檚 All About Them.

    <h4>Chapter 244</h4>


    ��I''m back because I have a mission. If nothing unexpected happens, I should have the chance toe back often in the future,�� said Pei Jing as he patted her shoulder to remind Zhi Xia, who had excitedly thrown herself into his arms, ��Someone ising. Let go first and we can hug more when we get home, okay?��


    Zhi Xia suddenly realized they were still in the alley, with people passing by from time to time.


    She hurriedly let go and stepped back from his embrace.


    Looking up, her eyes met his meaningfully.


    His gaze instantly made her annoyed. She poked a finger on his chest, ��You��ve be naughty!��


    Pei Jing held her soft little thumb and caressed the back of her hand. His voice was a little hoarse, ��Let��s go home first.��


    It wasn��t that he had be naughty, but that after being apart for so long, on the way back, his heart and eyes were full of only her and the children. His previous nonchnce was long gone.


    With people hurrying by in the alley, some of whom they knew, Pei Jing could only let go of her hand to push the bike.


    With his long legs straddling, he could just support the height of the bike.


    He stopped in front of Zhi Xia, looking at her gently, ��Let��s go, we��ll talk more when we get home.��


    Zhi Xia sat on the back seat, putting her arms around his waist, breathing in the familiar scent.


    ��Second brother got married today. What a pity you didn��te back half a day earlier or you could have had the wedding wine,�� said Zhi Xia. Then she suddenly remembered, ��Oh yes, the two kids are still at my mom��s. We were quite busy at home today so when they didn��t want to leave and wanted to stay and y with Wenqing, I let them. Should we go get them? If they knew you were back, they would probably be eager to return instead of staying there.��


    ��Let��s pick them up tomorrow. It��s not early now. We can go over early tomorrow, visit dad and mom, then take the kids out for a nice day,�� said Pei Jing.


    ��Okay, I��ll listen to you.��


    When they got home, Sister Zhang had already prepared dinner.


    Zhi Xia went to check on the children and found they were all asleep beforeing out.


    ��Sister Zhang, thank you for all the trouble today. I brought back some candy for you. It��s on the table in the living room. Take it with youter and give the kids some too to sweeten their mouth,�� said Zhi Xia.


    Old Pei had gone to the lunch banquet so he only came backter. Zhi Xia had only just returned home now. Sister Zhang had been taking care of the three kids the whole day.


    The candy she brought back was no mere few pieces, but a full half a jin of White Rabbit milk candies, showing her sincerity.


    ��Oh my, I must not stand on ceremony then. This will let me share in the joyous asion too,�� said Sister Zhang with augh, not taking sole credit. ��But I can��t im all responsibility for looking after the kids today either. Sister Zhou also came to help out. Shall I go overter and share some of this candy with her too?��


    Looking at the candy on the table, Sister Zhangughed with mouth agape.


    The candy looked worth one or two yuan. With her asional help watching the kids this past month, what Zhi Xia had openly and discreetly given her was easily worth several yuan.


    Giving things like this now was more rewarding than money, since some things couldn��t be bought even if you had money, and needed ration tickets on top.


    ��Granny also brought some back for Sister Zhou, so you don��t need to worry about her. This is specially for you,�� said Zhi Xia. At lunch, Old Madam had told her to ask Sister Zhou toe help here so she didn��t have to worry about the kids. She also took the same gift to pass on to Sister Zhou through Old Madam.


    At this time, Old Pei spoke, ��Little Zhang, just take what Zhi Xia gave you. Don��t decline it. Come eat quickly while the food is still hot.��


    ��Alright, I��ll listen to you, Sir,�� Sister Zhang answered cheerfully.


    After the meal, Sister Zhang went to wash the bowls and chopsticks while Pei Jing sat in the living room talking with Old Master.


    He briefly updated Old Pei about why he came back this time, saying a few things he could disclose but not asking too much about things he couldn��t.


    After exchanging just a few words, Old Pei chased him off, ��You don��t need to keep mepany. Go back to your room. It��s not easy for Zhi Xia to take care of three kids alone all this time. You should also be more considerate and spend time with your wife and children when you have the chance. Go next door with Zhi Xia to visit, then get some proper rest.��


    As an old fogey, he could enjoy some peace and quiet.


    In fact, the older one got, the more one craved liveliness, but Old Pei understood it was difficult for the newly married couple after their separation. It was better to give the young ones more chances to bond.


    ��I��ve already gone to visit granny and grandpa,�� Pei Jing informed him.


    ��Then go back and rest,�� said Old Pei.


    Pei Jing knew Old Master meant well. He had just stood up smiling when he heard Old Master��s and Old Madam��s voices outside.


    Pei Jing hurriedly went to greet them. Old Madamughed as she headed straight for Zhi Xia��s room.


    ��Granny...�� said Zhi Xia softly, for the kids were sleeping.


    Old Madam made a sound of acknowledgement and turned to look at the children.


    They were truly their own flesh and blood. She was happier each time she saw them.


    ��Zhi Xia, bring the kids over to my ceter. Pei Jing doesn��t get toe back often. You two should nurture your rtionship too,�� said Old Madam. It would be a pity if they didn��t get intimate after reuniting with difficulty, spending the whole night just taking care of kids instead.


    Hearing the implication behind Old Madam��s words, Zhi Xia instantly blushed. ��No need for that, Granny. We can handle things ourselves, and he wants to spend more time with the kids since he rarely gets toe back.��


    Old Master and Old Madam were quite advanced in years. Taking care of one kid was exhausting enough, let alone three. If she let them take the kids, they might really copse from exhaustion!


    Luckily, with kids just three to four months old who slept less and yed more now, bringing them along would indeed be quite tiring. But since she didn��t carry them much usually, even if they woke up, they would still stay put in bed.


    ording to Old Madam��s n, one night��s sleep and they could y with the kids tomorrow without issue.


    ��I know you��re consideration for me, Granny, but I��m also worried about you,�� said Zhi Xia, hugging Old Madam��s arm coquettishly.


    Old Madam tried persuading her a few more times without sess before having to give up.


    After sending off Old Master and Old Madam, Zhi Xia returned to the room.


    Pei Jing followed right after into the room and pulled her into his embrace against the door.


    Feverish kisses ensued as he reached out a hand to plug the door.


    Their breathing gradually grew ragged. Zhi Xia was ced on the bed and tried to push him away, ��You were on the road for days and haven��t washed yet.��


    ��I washed as soon as I got back.�� Pei Jing was always very hygienic, which happened to align with Zhi Xia��s preference.


    When he returned earlier to find Zhi Xia not around, all three kids were awake. He first cleaned himself up, yed with the children for a long time, then timed it to go pick her up after.

 Chapter 245: I had a nightmare, Weird.

    <h4>Chapter 245</h4>


    His shirt buttons were undone, exposing her skin to the air.


    With his fingertips gliding over her body, waves of warmth spread through her.


    Suddenly, the baby''s cries rang out, startling the intimate couple.


    Pei Jing frowned slightly, and went over to check on the child in the crib first.


    "Put the kids in the space so they don''t disturb us," Pei Jing said, well aware of the magical properties of the space. This wasn''t the first time he had witnessed it. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have left Zhi Xia alone with three kids, even with people there to help. He wouldn''t have been at ease.


    That''s why he had pulled all his resources just to get this rare opportunity.


    Although they still couldn''t be together everyday, at least he was closer now. This time, he had joined as an instructor so he coulde back and visit from time to time.


    Hearing him, Zhi Xia ced all the kids into the space to be looked after by the Baby Care Robot.


    With the suggestive atmosphere dissipated, Zhi Xia snuggled into his embrace. "By the way, you haven''t told me why you came back suddenly."


    Pei Jing pressed her beneath him again. "I''ll tell you tomorrow. My wife, we have more important things to do now."


    Luckily Old Pei lived in the main house so no one else was around to hear their intimate sounds.


    Well into the night, the squeaking from the wooden bed finally stopped as she was too tired to move, letting him pull her against his body.


    In the darkness, the room was empty.


    But in the bathroom inside the space, the sound of running water mingled with the woman''s impatient moans and the muffled groans of the man.


    By the time they finished washing up, dawn had already broken.


    With the kids asleep in the bedroom, Pei Jing carried Zhi Xia to the living room. The sofa wasn''t wide enough so he let her lie on top of him instead.


    Exhausted, the pair sank into deep slumber in each other''s arms.


    But for the first time ever, Pei Jing was gued by nightmares.


    That''s right, nightmares.


    He wanted to wake up but couldn''t free himself, trapped in the endless abyss...


    In her sleep, Zhi Xia felt herself held so tightly it was almost crushing her waist. She struggled and his grip loosened, allowing her to fall back into deep sleep.


    When she awoke, she found herself alone on the sofa without Pei Jing.


    Unable to leave without her leading the way, Zhi Xia closed her eyes to sense his location.


    At the bedroom door, she went in to see him sitting motionless on the bed, gazing at the sleeping children.


    With his back facing her, she couldn''t see his expression.


    Grinning, she knelt on the bed and draped herself over his back, pecking his cheek. "You''re awake, why didn''t you wake me? Let''s hurry out, it''s already bright outside. We''ll beughed at if we stay in any longer."


    Pei Jing grasped her wrist and looked back at her, tenderness still visible in his eyes but also a hint of struggle.


    "What''s wrong?" Zhi Xia asked when he didn''t respond.


    "It''s nothing, I just suddenly have some doubts..."


    He trailed off, piquing her curiosity even more. "Doubts about what?"


    Pei Jing met her gaze. Breaking into a smile, he said, "Just doubtful that you''d kiss me first thing in the morning without even brushing your teeth."


    Zhi Xia froze for a second before releasing him, finally realizing what had happened. She smacked his back in embarrassment and rushed into the bathroom.


    By the time she emerged, her face was still flushed.


    "Speaking of which, were there a lot of jujubes on the tree in our backyard this year?"


    Pei Jing''s random question made Zhi Xia pause again. She felt his forehead. "No fever ah." Howe he was acting so strange after waking up?


    "We don''t have a jujube tree in our backyard, only an apricot tree. Are you still groggy?" Zhi Xia asked.


    "I must really be mixed up, even getting that wrong," Pei Jing went along with her words, patting his own head. "Then when we have time, let''s nt a jujube tree. I remember that apricot tree has been there for years but it hasn''t been fruitful the past few years. Might as well cut it down and nt a jujube instead since the kids like to eat them too."


    "You''re telling the wrong person. It''s Dad''s house so he has to agree before doing anything," Zhi Xia said. The twins didn''t even like jujubes. With so much fruit avable, there wasn''t anything in particr they favored.


    Of course, her two little gluttons did have a penchant for meat over vegetables and loved rice more than noodles.


    As for the triplets, they were only a few months old and couldn''t eat anything but milk.


    Moreover, the apricot tree had actually produced a lot of tiny fruit this year. Old Pei had even happily dered it was going to be a bumper harvest, signifying prosperity for the household and ever increasing prosperity.


    The pair exchanged knowing looks before simultaneously ncing at the now awake child. He was about to cry but smiled happily the moment he met his mother''s eyes, his little legs kicking joyfully in the air while his tiny hands grabbed his feet.


    Zhi Xia deliberately didn''t go to pick him up, watching as Pei Jing adeptly checked their diapers. All were full, but none had pooped.


    He ripped off the used diapers and threw them in the bin before smacking the child''s bottom that had been confined all night.


    When Pei Jing raised his head, the look he gave Zhi Xia was as gentle as ever. "Let''s go out first."


    Zhi Xia nodded and transported them all outside with a thought.


    Pei Jing fetched some water to wipe the children''s hands and faces, demonstrating the same skilled motions she remembered from their days living together as he patiently tended to the kids without any impatience.


    "Zhi Xia, you might want to consider giving my fourth brother one of those physical enhancement serums I used." There would be major operations across the various troops over the next two months. But the specifics were confidential so he couldn''t divulge more.


    "Mm, that thing is hard toe by though. I''ll have to think of a way." She was extremelycking in Star Coins presently and would need to figure out how to earn more first.


    "Anytime within the month is fine, there''s no hurry." Because selections would ur in every branch over the next month to pick out the best personnel to reorganize into an elite Special Forces team. Requirements to get into Special Forces were demanding with intensepetition.


    Logically speaking, the food Zhi Xia regrly sent An ZhiAng over the years containing energy should have sufficiently enhanced his constitution, granting him far superior physiquepared to ordinary people. So passing this round of selections should have been easy. But there were always people more capable out there. Enhanced bodies from the serums would open up greater possibilities.


    Having personally used the physical enhancement serum before, Pei Jing understood better than Zhi Xia the tremendous benefits it brought to the body and the immensetent potential it unlocked that could be continually tapped into through training to reach powerful heights without any side effects.


    Take him for instance - his endurance and resilience already far surpassed thoserades who used to be on par with him. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have managed to squeeze into Special Forces with his current instructor level qualifications after rounds of harsh filtering.


    Pei Jing had been quite capable in the past, singled out by leadership as a promising talent. But that strength was still worlds apartpared to now.


    If only they could somehow research and develop serums like these, the country''s fighting capabilities would undoubtedly reach the top ranks globally.

 Chapter 246: Back to the Same Place, Or it鈥檚 Too Late.

    <h4>Chapter 246</h4>


    After a simple breakfast, Pei Jing and Sister Zhang bid farewell and the couple went out.


    When they arrived at the An family, Zhou Nan was helping Zheng Suchun clean up the bowls and chopsticks while the children yed in the yard.


    Seeing them, Zhou Nan was in a good mood and pleasantly surprised, "Little Jing is back! When did you get home?"


    "Mom, we got homest night. We already ate breakfast," Pei Jing still had things in his hands. In the meantime, An JingZhi and An Zhiren had alreadye out to usher Pei Jing into the house.


    Zhou Nan stopped Zheng Suchun who had juste out of the kitchen, "Suchun, it��s almost done, don��t be busy anymore. Since Jing is here, why don��t you take Jia to chat for a while and get to know each other."


    After doing housework alone for so many years, Zhou Nan was finally able to enjoy her daughter-inw''s help.


    Although Liu Ling would also help out sometimes, she spent most of her time at school. At home, she had to prepare lessons and grade assignments, as well as take care of the children, so there was little time for housework.


    "Oh, alright," Zheng Suchun agreed with a smile. The cleaning up was done anyway, it would be impolite to refuse.


    She had already changed out of yesterday''s clothes. The fabric she was wearing now was also new, bought by An Zhiren when they went shopping in the city. She had made it herself.


    This was the first time Zheng Suchun felt hopeful about life. She was well-dressed and well-fed. Her parents-inw had given her a big red envelope today with a full 160 yuan inside.


    She had never seen so much money in her life.


    Because Liu Ling had given 200 yuan as betrothal gift when she married into the family, Zhou Nan and An Jingzhi did not favor one daughter-inw over the other.


    But in the vige, the average betrothal gift was only a few tens of yuan, and was not usually brought to the wife��s family.


    Zheng Suchun married up. As the Zheng family did not ask too much for the betrothal gift, Zhou Nan let her give a symbolic 50 yuan so as not to make the bride lose face.


    The rest would be given to her after she joined the family, as living expenses for the young couple.


    Even in the countryside, 50 yuan was considered a high betrothal gift. Four years ago, when Jia married into the Gao family, she was only worth 20 yuan.


    Of course, she was so battered back then that it was no wonder she wasn��t worth any money.


    Since An Zhiren no longer lived here, his former room was given to An ZhiXian. It would also be inappropriate for Zheng Suchun to move in there.


    Pei Jing was chatting with them in the living room, so the two women could only go to the other side of the house.


    "Jia, I made shoes for everyone in the family, including pairs for you and the kids. The three little ones can''t wear them yet, so I sewed each of them a pair of socks instead. I already tried Chenye and Wanqing��s on, they fit perfectly," said Zheng Suchun as she took out the shoes she made for Jia. The pure handmade cloth shoes were embroidered with flowers, showing her skilled craft.


    "Thank you so much Sister-inw! Let me try them on first," Jia enthusiastically took the shoes and sat on a stool to try them on.


    They fit her feet nicely and felt veryfortable. Jiaplimented Suchun''s dexterity.


    Zheng Suchun smiled from ear to ear, "I asked Grandma for everyone''s shoe sizes a while ago when brother-inw wasn''t home yet. So I didn''t make a pair for him. Don''t me me."


    Of course, this was just pleasantries. With current material shortages, it was already great that she could make shoes for her inws upon marrying into the family, let alone for so many people. It must have taken great effort.


    Jia quickly said it was fine, he wore military-issued liberation shoes anyway.


    She did not prepare gifts for Zheng Suchun and did not expect to receive shoes for herself and her children.


    Fortunately, she was going out today and had a sling bag with a water bottle inside. She reached into her bag and took out two scarves, just the right kind to tie around the neck in this weather.


    "Sister-inw, I don��t have hands as skilled as yours. I could only prepare two scarves, one for each of you and sister-inw. Liu Ling isn��t here now,�� she whispered, ��You pick the color you like and keep that one. Please help me give the other one to sister-inwter. Well, it serves her right for not being home,�� Jia joked.


    Zheng Suchun alsoughed along. The two scarves were very brightly colored and certainly not cheap.


    But she did not refuse them. After all, gifts helped bring people closer together. If the little sister had prepared them, it would be petty of her to reject.


    After chatting with them for a while, Pei Jing went over with a child in each arm. He nodded politely to Zheng Suchun and said, "Let''s go, while it''s still early and not too hot. Otherwise when the sun gets higher..."


    Hearing they were going out to y, Zhou Nan hurried over, "Come back for lunch, okay? It''s your second brother''s honeymoon these two days. We can drink to it at lunch."


    Pei Jing looked to Jia and she nodded before he agreed.


    Once they were out the door, Jia asked him, "Where are we going?"


    She was not very familiar with Jincheng. Memories from her past life had long been drowned out after so many years. And in this life, with several children in tow, she rarely had the time to venture out.


    "I''m taking you somewhere...a ce I went as a kid," he said, a smile tugging at his lips.


    Jia had no idea there was such a ce in Jincheng, tucked away in the most remote corner, adjoining a mountain path.


    He parked his bicycle at the door of a farmhouse and called inside, "Old uncle, are you home?"


    But it was a middle-aged man who emerged, "Who are you looking for?"


    Pei Jing was not surprised, "I''m looking for an old uncle who used to live here. Is he in?"


    "You mean my dad? He passed away two years ago. May I ask what business you have with him?" There was a slight sadness in the man''s tone when he mentioned his father.


    Pei Jing had not expected the old uncle to be gone already. It seemed he hade toote.


    "Well, when I was a mischievous child, I stole cherries from your family''s mountainside trees. Your dad caught me red-handed but instead told me to juste and pick them directly next time I wanted some. Later when I left, it had probably been years since I came back. Today I brought my wife and kids, hoping to see the old uncle again, but it turns out I am toote," Pei Jingmented.


    But the man suddenly recalled something and chuckled, "So you''re the little boy who stole cherries that my dad used to talk about. My mom even fought with him because of it..."


    Realizing he shouldn''t have mentioned that, the man awkwardlyughed it off, "Butter when my mom found out your dad and brother were soldiers, she picked cherries and delivered them herself. Who would''ve thought..." Back then, Pei Jing''s mother had already passed away. Old Grandpa An had taken him in while Old Pei had gone off to war. It was not until the founding of the PRC that Old Pei returned and Pei Jing went back to live with him. By then, his ill mother was on her deathbed, delirious and pining for the cherries from their childhood yard.


    It was his first time stealing and the shame of getting caught overwhelmed him. Fortunately the old uncle was kindhearted.


    "Ah, let''s not bring up sad old tales," the man waved it off. "My dad may be gone but the cherry trees up the hill still bear fruit every year. The old trees don''t yield anymore and got chopped down. The ones there now are new trees grown from the old roots. They''re full of ripe cherries. Let me take you to pick some."


    There was farnd around Jincheng too, just not very much. Locals would nt vegetables in their spare time for their own consumption.


    That old uncle had been quite protective of his few cherry trees. It was only because Pei Jing was an old acquaintance that he generously offered now.

 Chapter 247: Who told Her that

    <h4>Chapter 247</h4>


    Pei Jing didn''t refuse; instead, he handed over what he held in his hand. "The children are craving them, so I won''t stand on ceremony with you. These were originally meant for Uncle, but since Uncle is no longer here, please ept them. Consider it my way of making amends for my reckless behavior when I was young."


    "That was years ago. Why bring it up? Besides, my father''s biggest regret was being held back from joining the army by the family. On the day you came to pick cherries, he knew about your family''s situation and genuinely wanted to help," she exined.


    In this world, there are still many good-hearted people.


    After some initial reluctance, the man epted the offering and even suggested they go up the mountain to pick more.


    When the man''s wife returned and saw the items on the table, she was overjoyed.


    Although they were all residents of Jincheng, there was still a significant disparity between them.


    Families like theirs had to rely on a single person''s ie to support the whole family, including several children. They were always frugal and couldn''t afford to buy candy or peach pastries for their children.


    The items on the table were quite substantial, and they had earned them in exchange for the cherries. It was a profitable exchange for them.


    On the way up the mountain, Pei Wanqing ran the fastest, asionally stopping and waiting for them, impatient with her brother''s slow pace.


    Zhi Xia carried a small bamboo basket in her hand and found it a bit strenuous climbing the mountain.


    Pei Jing silently held her hand, reminding the two children in front to walk slower.


    "I can''t believe you used to steal things when you were a child," Pei Jing said. His impression of him was mature,posed, and self-restrained, unlike a mischievous child who would steal.


    "At that time, there was war, and my mother brought me here to hide. We had no rtives and were fortunate to receive asional help from the Old Master. But my mother was stubborn and afraid of causing trouble for others. Even when she was seriously ill and near death, she wouldn''t let me seek help... When I was young and didn''t dare to ask, I secretly picked some. Luckily, I encountered an old man who was a good person and didn''t punish me. Instead, he gave me some cherries," he exined.


    Listening to Pei Jing''s story, Zhi Xia also realized that his childhood was not easy.


    They say that children from poor families grow up quickly, which exined why he always gave people a sense of stability and reliability.


    Fortunately, she married him, and she knew she had found a treasure.


    "All that is in the past. From now on, you will have me and the children by your side. Our family will be happy for a lifetime." She said these words to him, but she also said them to herself.


    In fact, he had long since lost those memories; otherwise, he wouldn''t have stayed away all these years.


    But in that dream, he had alsoe with a little boy, and the memory seemed to ovep, exceptionally vivid.


    The child''s innocent words echoed in his ears, "Uncle, I don''t want my current father anymore. Will you be my father instead?"


    Hearing those innocent words was heart-wrenching and ufortable, but it wasn''t until he was about to close his eyes that he realized that the boy was his own son.


    His son should have grown up safe and happy, but due to Wang Yue''s selfishness, he was trapped in a dark family conflict and had been hurt for half his life.


    Chenye was probably about that size, just a few jujubes in his mouth, when Wang Yue cursed him as a worthless brat.


    At that time, the old man was no longer around, and An Meixia and Pei Jianguo quarreled all day long, never having a peaceful day. As a distant uncle living in the same courtyard, he couldn''t possibly manage everything.


    It was also during that incident that An Meixia fully realized the harm her child suffered. She filed aint to Pei Yong, and with the decision made by her eldest brother, the Wang Yue family was forced to move out.


    Later, the second brother''s family also moved out. He promised the two old men to take care of them and their mother and child, so he continued to live there.


    It''s ridiculous when you think about it. They should have been a family, but they never knew the truth throughout their lives. Despite living in the same courtyard, they had to be careful about what they said to each other.


    It was also that humiliation that silenced the young child for a long time. An Meixia felt sorry for him but didn''t know how to help. She was far from being as cheerful and excellent as she is in this life.


    When he had free time, he suddenly thought of this ce and brought him here.


    Later on, when he returned, he cut down the apricot tree in the backyard and nted a jujube tree for him.


    But he no longer liked eating jujubes; instead, he developed a taste for cherries.


    Those few bright red jujubes became a knot in the child''s heart that he couldn''t ovee throughout his life.


    Many yearster, he became outstanding. Pei Jing asked him why he no longer liked jujubes and why he refused to cut down the jujube tree. His answer was that it was his motivation for growth.


    The insults from his grandmother and the indifference of his father didn''t defeat him; instead, they strengthened his determination to be strong because only by being strong could he protect his mother.


    And he did achieve that. At a young age, he had his own world abroad. If it weren''t for his critical illness, perhaps he wouldn''t have chosen toe back.


    Unfortunately, things change, people change. By the time he learned the truth, his life wasing to an end, and he didn''t know if revealing those secrets would serve any purpose.


    To the child, that inheritance was just an embellishment, nothing more.


    He was willing to ept it, but he wanted to seek revenge on Wang Yue, not because he cared about the wealth.


    Otherwise, when he didn''t know the truth, he wouldn''t have been unwilling to be the heir.


    As for Wang Yue, because of her selfishness, she simrly caused her son a lifetime of suffering. It''s unknown whether she ever regretted it in the end.


    The small cherry tree was full of fruit, vibrant and bountiful.


    The twins had already run over with a basket to pick cherries. The cherry tree wasn''t tall, and its branches were slender. Chenye held a branch and let Wanqing pick.


    Zhi Xia reminded them, "You two pick the ripe ones, don''t pick the unripe ones."


    The cherries in the space were much bigger and sweeter than the ones here, but there was no joy in picking them by hand.


    They were only ying with the children, and they didn''t n on picking too many. They just let the two children do it.


    Zhi Xia turned around and saw that Pei Jing''s gaze was empty, with tears in his eyes.


    "What''s wrong with you?" She approached him and reached out to touch the corner of his eye.


    However, before she made contact, he pulled her into his arms and held her tightly.


    "Zhixia, let''s dig up a cherry tree and nt it when we go back. The sapling is small, so we can nt it in another corner without having to cut down the apricot tree," he suddenly spoke, afraid that she would see his restraint.


    Zhixia wanted to break free from his embrace, but after struggling for a moment, she couldn''t escape and could only wrap her hand around his waist. "Have you gone mad? Yesterday you were talking about nting jujube trees, and today it''s cherry trees?"


    "Well, there happens to be a ready-made cherry sapling, so we don''t need to look for jujube trees again," he could now confirm that only he possessed those memories, and Zhixia did not.


    She seemed to know something and had been resisting him because of it.


    She knew that An Meixia married Pei Jianguo, but she didn''t know the exact details of what happened between them. She was aware of the existence of that child, but she had no emotional attachment whatsoever.


    The things she knew seemed more like someone else''s narrative, not like his own memories suddenly appearing in his mind.


    But then, who told her? Zhao Runze, perhaps?


    It was quite possible.


    Zhao Runze died early, so he didn''t know what happened afterwards.

 Chapter 248: As I Please

    <h4>Chapter 248</h4>


    ��Did you forget that I have a ntable space with all kinds of trees in it?�� Zhi Xia asked him.


    Pei Jingughed softly, ��I really did forget. Since the kids are picking cherries now, go ahead and take out the saplings from your space. That way we don��t have toe up with excuses to fool them when they notice.��


    ��No need. I already told the kids about the existence of my space. I��ll have to tie it to the bike now. When we get closer to home, we can take it out where there��s no one around,�� Zhi Xia was still nestled in his embrace and he didn��t want to let go either, so she just handed over all her strength to him, ��I was so scared when Chen Ze was kidnappedst time. So I gave the kids ess too, so if they encounter danger in the future, they can enter the space themselves.��


    Zhi Xia thought for a bit. Pei Jing��s profession was also very dangerous. ��Jing, I just found out the space has this ess authority. You need to umte some things for it. What was umtedst time was all used by the kids. When there��s enough umted next time, I��ll also give you ess so you can enter the space anytime. Even if we��re thousands of miles apart, our family can still gather in the space.��


    Pei Jing was about to say there was no need as long as he and the kids were safe, he had the ability to protect himself.


    But he suddenly thought of something and his expression darkened. He no longer declined and nodded instead, ��Okay.��


    Wanqing took the opportunity while picking cherries to secretly pop one in her mouth. Her face instantly twisted from the sourness.


    ��Big brother, the cherry is so sour, not as sweet as the ones mom gives us,�� the basket already had quite a lot of cherries. Chenye understood they were taking the owner''s things and picking too much would be inappropriate. So he said, "Then let''s not pick anymore. We can mix some from mom when we get back and eat them together."


    "Okay, okay." Wanqing nodded.


    "Wow..." The two kids then noticed their mom Zhi Xia was in Pei Jing''s embrace. Especially Wanqing, she immediately handed the basket to her brother and ran up to hug Pei Jing''s leg. "Dad, I want a hug too."


    Hearing the kid''s voice, Zhi Xia quickly pushed him and straightened up as Pei Jing didn''t continue hugging tightly this time.


    Pei Jing picked up his darling into his arms affectionately, "Alright, Dad hugs."


    "Done picking? Let''s head down the mountain, grandma and them are waiting for us back home to eat," Zhi Xia asked them.


    "Done," Chenye replied and the family headed down the mountain.


    On the way back, Pei Jing kept carrying Wanqing. Zhi Xia held the basket in one hand and Chenye''s hand in the other.


    They went to the An family''s home for dinner first and stayed for a bit before heading back to their own home when it started to get dark.


    Wang Yue and Jiang Su''s family were there since they knew Pei Jing had returned.


    "Little brother, dad said you don''t have to go back anymore and can stay on this side of Jincheng from now on. Is that a transfer or changed post?" Pei Sheng had been in the army before so he knew some situations. "I guess I''m stuck where I am at my unit just muddling along now. Big brother does have some skills but he has been dragged at home by his family in recent years, going back less than once every two to three years. Last time was for your wedding Little Jing, it''s been years now."


    Compared to them, Pei Sheng watched Little Jing grow up so their rtionship was half brotherly and half father-son.


    "It''s more like a transfer but not to a garrison on this side..." but rather a newly formedbat troop. All members woulde from the top soldiers across all the military districts in the country, carrying out some special missions.


    In the special forces team, every team member was equivalent to an officer in a regr corp. This showed how much importance was ced on this special forces team by the top brass.


    And Pei Jing would be the highest instructor for this special forces team. His skills and abilities had been validated by the top military officials.


    There were two other instructors for now that he hadn''t met yet.


    Pei Jing didn''t say thetter part and Pei Sheng also knew not to ask further.


    Wang Yue on the other hand untimely said: "Third brother, dad asked us to split the household right after you got married. It made sense for your wife to live here alone with the kid before but now that you''ll be back, surely you can''t continue living here with your wife and kids under dad''s roof right?"


    The old man wasn''t young anymore either. If this arrangement continued and the old man kicked the bucket, wouldn''t the house just go to them logically?


    The previously good atmosphere instantly turned cold from Wang Yue''s words, the joy of reunion also vanished.


    No one expected that Pei Jing, who never bothered with Wang Yue in the past, would speak up. "Sister-inw, you''re mistaken. You and big brother only moved out after marrying for decades while Xia and I are still young and exactly when we need dad''s support. There''s still time when our kids are as old as Jian Guo before we move out too."


    Pei Sheng looked at Pei Jing, quickly agreeing with him, "Younger brother makes sense. He married younger so having kidster is indeed unfair to lump together in splitting households, since all our kids are grown but his are still little."


    He was quite confused inside though. If it were before, Pei Jing wouldn''t fuss about this little loss of advantage but today, he seemed to deliberately argue.


    Wang Yue was miffed backwards. "Second brother, I know you don''t have your own son so you''ve been eyeing Jian Guo before, now it''s fallen onto third brother''s son seeing his several kids, wanting to bum around for them. But have you asked if he''s willing to have his son adopted by you? Don''t make yourself busy only to find out in the end that you were blindly helping out."


    Pei Sheng''s face instantly changed, "Sister-inw, I don''t have a son but I have a daughter. And I''ve never nned to eye someone else''s kid. What you''re saying really crosses the line."


    At most, he thought that after death, it''d be okay for a nephew to break a basin, after all it would be improper for his daughter to fail to carry on rituals. He didn''t not want to adopt, just understood that no matter who the kid belongs to, they''re the heart of the parents. Home wasn''t so poor they needed to send the kid away either, so there was no need to bring it up to add disharmony.


    Old Jiang''s expression was also very unhappy. "Sister-inw, please keep your thoughts to yourself. We''re not nning to adopt or eye your precious Jian Guo. As they say, everyone sees their own kid as treasure, and sister-inw you only have this one son so it''s natural you guard him tightly. We can understand."


    "You saying who''s a shitty brat?" Wang Yue had never been one to take a loss, immediately looking like she wanted to fight.


    Old Pei was so angry he mmed the table repeatedly. The p p sounds also calmed everyone down.


    "Got it all out of your system? If enough then scram! I''m not dead yet, this is my house and I get to decide who lives here. You can say I''m biased or do whatever you want, but I now announce that when I die, this house belongs to Zhi Xia." Old Pei looked seemingly calm on the surface but his eyes were full of anger.


    "Dad, what are you saying? On what basis?" Wang Yue had been eyeing this for half a lifetime. How could she watch the house fall into someone else''s hands, and into An Zhi Xia no less!


    She said it back then, if An Zhi Xia could have been her daughter-inw, she would have given it to her since it was family in the end. But little brother three who seemed pretty decent suddenly smashed this massive pit, secretly pulling her into his embrace. Her schemes had thus fallen through.


    Her son wasn''t reliable either. She told him to gain this girl''s favor properly before but he didn''t bother. She thought there was still time and no hurry, but unexpectedly it was toote in the blink of an eye.


    "Just because this house was given by the old master, and because I want to! Second brother, go get your big brother back here now. If he wants to split houses then we can take this opportunity while little three is here for a few days and divide things clearly," Old Pei said coldly.

 Chapter 249: Can鈥檛 deny it

    <h4>Chapter 249</h4>


    Pei Sheng also did not know whether the old master was just saying things in anger. He quickly looked to Pei Jing for help, hoping he could say something to ease the situation a little.


    But he saw Pei Jing give a coldugh, and instead said to him: "Since Dad also has this intention, second brother, go and notify big brother. We three brothers haven''t sat together for a long time, so let''s take this opportunity to have a good chat."


    Pei Sheng looked at Old Pei again. Seeing that he was determined, he said helplessly: "Alright, I''ll go notify big brother right away. We''lle back after he returns tomorrow."


    After saying this, he hurriedly beckoned his wife and children, and his whole family intuitively followed along.


    As Pei Xiang was leaving, she still looked at Zhi Xia worriedly.


    In any case, their family was not concerned about the house. They had resented Wang Yue for many years, sopared to letting Wang Yue upy the advantage and be overjoyed, it felt morefortable in their hearts to give it to the third room.


    After the second room''s people left, Wang Yue instantly had tears in her eyes. She yed the emotional card, "Dad, I know you all think I care about the house, but you don''t know how hard I''ve lived these years. Your son doesn''te back once in three or two years. When hees back, he looks at me with disdain. Was it easy for me to raise these two children alone? It''s not easy for me, is it? My whole family is dead in order to save this ungrateful wretch..."


    Old Pei had also been on the battlefield. If he didn''t feel sorry for her, he wouldn''t have let her be so overbearing at home. He still endured and forgave her more.


    But he didn''t expect that the return would be even more excessive behavior.


    "Eldest daughter-inw, I''ve wanted to say this for a long time. If he doesn''t want toe back, you should also look for the reason in yourself," Old Pei sighed. "He was able to have two children with you. At first, he also wanted to live well with you. But every time hees back, you make a fuss. How could he possibly want to go home?"


    "I made a fuss because he still cares about other women in his heart! After so many years, he still cares about others when he lives miserably, and my life is not miserable?" Every time she used the same tactic. No matter how great the kindness was, it couldn''t withstand erosion. But she never understood this principle.


    "Enough, enough. You are all people in your forties. You should resolve your own affairs yourselves..." Old Pei waved his hand.


    But Pei Jing just smiled and said, "I believe if my big brother could choose at the beginning, he would rather choose to die himself than continue living under the shadow of your life-saving grace!"


    "Pei Jing, what do you know? That was the life of our whole family. He owes it to me and to our family." Wang Yue clenched her fist. If she wasn''t sure she couldn''t beat Pei Jing, she would definitely want to get physical.


    "Auntie, your words are too much!" Pei JianGuo protected Wang Yue behind him.


    Pei Jing looked at the nephew in front of him who was only slightly shorter than him. He had always felt that he was weak and ipetent, but at least he didn''t have any other problems.


    But often, weakness and ipetence itself was an injurious weapon.


    "Pei JianGuo, you''re not young anymore either, almost 20 years old. Go vent your anger at people outside. The most hopeless kind of man is one who only bullies women and children at home!" Obsequious and deferential outside, but relying on the innate male advantage at home toin and beat women and children.


    And also not looking at what kind of stuff he himself was.


    Pei Jing had originally looked forward to his nephew getting married and starting a career, marrying and having children. But now he felt it was better to stay single and not harm a nice girl, a useless thing all his life who didn''t even dare to do anything. How could he have the nerve toin about this and that all day?


    And big brother, if he didn''t always feel sorry for himself and escape reality, this family would not have be what it was, and both children would be spoiled without any responsibility or ability to fulfill their duties. No wonder Pei JianGuo was brought up to be like this.


    Pei JianGuo didn''t dare to speak with his head lowered after being trained. Wang Yue came out from behind him, "My son doesn''t need you to teach him. Bah, acting so sanctimonious, but actually coveting old master''s property in your heart. What do you think you are?"


    Wang Yue pulled Pei JianGuo out while scolding him. Pei Shuangshuang hurried to follow them. As soon as they went out the door, she heard her mother scolding her brother, "You are also a useless thing. When people point at your nose and scold you, what else are you apprehensive about? You treat him as your uncle, does he treat you as his nephew? Always caring about face, can''t say this, can''t say that, now it''s good, it''s all be someone else''s..."


    Old master had originally said he would donate the house. She was frightened at first, butter thought there was still room for contention.


    After all, old master didn''t have much, he couldn''t leave nothing to his offspring.


    But now he had directly said he would give it to Zhi Xia, how was that different from giving it to Pei Jing?


    The words sounded nice, even mentioning An''s old grandfather, but in the end wasn''t it favoritism towards the younger son?


    Now that he had other grandsons, the eldest was no longer precious!


    The living room, which should have been a happy family reunion, instead fell into a depressed atmosphere.


    Pei Jing turned his head to Zhi Xia: "You go back to the room with the kids first. The three little ones haven''t seen you for a day."


    Zhi Xia nodded and said softly as she came to his side: "Talk nicely with Dad."


    She also felt a little strange, she just felt that Pei Jing was a little off.


    He didn''t seem like the kind of person who would say to live here until the child grows up to be fair.


    With doubts in her mind, she led the two children out.


    Although Wen Qing was young, she could understand. "Mom, is big auntie mad because grandpa wants to give the house to you?"


    Zhi Xia stroked her head, "It''s not necessarily true, don''t talk nonsense. Let''s go back and see your brothers."


    "You don''t need to stand anymore either, sit down." In the living room, Old Pei looked at Pei Jing solemnly, "Third child, tell Dad what you are thinking. Your attitude towards your eldest sister-inw is a little wrong. And JianGuo, he..."


    He wanted to say he was still young, but he was already in his 20s, and Pei Jing was not much older than him.


    Pei Jing sat there, leaning back, looking somewhat nonchnt. "I didn''t think much about it. I just felt that Wang Yue has been overbearing all these years. Having such ideas today, shouldn''t Dad reflect on it?"


    Old Pei knew that he had spoiled her step by step, retreating again and again, which instead gave her confidence.


    But what could he do?


    The lives of a big family of the Wangs not only weighed on big brother, but also weighed on him as the father.


    Even if they had been willing to save others with their lives at the beginning, and exchanging their lives for survival was not what big brother wished. But they could not deny this kindness.


    It is said that many children mean more blessings, but he felt instead that they had alle to collect debts. It would have been better if second brother''s family only had the two daughters who were less troublesome.

 Chapter 250: All Exposed

    <h4>Chapter 250</h4>


    Old Pei wiped his face, his murky eyes filled with confusion.


    After a while, he spoke, "I understand what you mean. Go back for now, and we''ll discuss the rest when your elder brother returns tomorrow."


    In the end, it was all because of the trouble caused by the thing in his hands.


    Since they wanted it, sooner orter it would be given to them. There was no need to hold onto it tightly and wait for trouble to arise at home.


    Once everything was divided, there would be nothing left to argue about.


    What puzzled him was how Pei Jing''s attitude towards the main house suddenly changed so dramatically.


    Little did he know that only Pei Jing, with certain memories, knew how miserable a mother and child were in another world, victimized by Wang Yue''s selfishness and malice.


    With the two children in tow, Zhi Xia entered the room and saw Sister Zhang sitting on a stool by the bedside, amusing the children.


    Seeing her return, Sister Zhang exined, "You were all talking in the living room just now, so I came here to have a moment of peace. These three little ones are very well-behaved. I just changed their diapers, and they''re awake now. You can y with them while I go out."


    Sister Zhang had been taking care of Old Pei for several years, so she was aware of the conflicts in the family. However, she knew her ce and understood that there were certain things she couldn''t ask or talk about. So when she sensed that something was off in their conversation, she quickly avoided it and had no interest in listening.


    After apologizing to Zhi Xia and Sister Zhang, Zhi Xia watched her leave.


    After ying with the three little ones for a while, Zhi Xia closed the door and kissed Chenye and Wanqing on their foreheads. "Mommy will go to the space for a while. You can y with your little brother. When Daddyes backter, you can open the door. If someone else knocks or calls for Mommy, I''ll be able to hear it, okay?"


    Wanqing held her hand and said, "Mommy, I want to go inside and watch cartoons too."


    Ever since she watched it once, she had been wanting to watch more, but Zhi Xia limited her time for the sake of her eyes.


    Chenye, being more sensible, held onto Wanqing and said, "Mommy has something to do, so we have to watch over our little brother outside. They''re all awake, and they''ll get fussy if we don''t y with them."


    "Okay then." Wanqing pouted, looking as if she could cry at any moment.


    Zhi Xiaforted her, saying, "Don''t be angry. We''ll let you y after dinner, alright? It''s broad daylight now, and if someonees looking for uster and finds that we''re not here, it won''t be good."


    After soothing her, Zhi Xia went to the space.


    Looking at her Trade Panel with only 30 Star Coins, Zhi Xia realized for the umpteenth time that she was truly poor.


    It had been a long time since she received any orders from the Queen of the Bug Tribe, and her Star Coin ie had been cut off. During this time, she had been busy with the kids, so she rarely dealt with these things.


    Opening the Friends page again, she noticed that the profile picture of the Queen of the Bug Tribe had turned ck.


    She clicked on it and saw the three words "Deceased" below the profile picture.


    No wonder.


    Not everyone could possess a Trade Panel, so once they died, the Trade Panel would reset and wait for the nextpatible owner.


    Zhi Xia let out a sigh of relief. Advanced realms were already rare, and losing one meant losing a trader who could continuously provide Star Coins. It was somewhat regrettable.


    In the post-apocalyptic realm, they had been developing interster spaceships and clearing mutated species ons in recent years, resulting in less contact.


    However, Zhi Xia still had many crystal cores obtained from previous trades. Except for the first batch sold to the trader, she kept the rest. Afterward, when I''m Not a Zombie figured out the multiple uses of crystal cores, she stopped providing them.


    Zhi Xia took out the stored crystal cores and ced them on the table, taking one to contact the interster realm.


    Young Rich Woman: "I need arge amount of Star Coins. Can I exchange this?"


    Wandering Egg: "Wait a moment, let me check."


    After a long time, he replied, "How many do you have? If they are all of this quality, I can offer 500 Star Coins."


    A Level 1 crystal core trader would only offer fifty, but Wandering Egg offered a tenfold increase. The difference was astonishing. It made Zhi Xia feel regretful for selling those crystal cores to the trader.


    Indeed, the trader was the most untrustworthy.


    Zhi Xia, who had initially considered agreeing, had some reservations. "Can the price go higher?"


    If it were any other item, she wouldn''t mind since she had arge space and an abundance of flora and fauna.


    But Star Coins were valuable, and crystal cores were not unlimited. Of course, she wanted to earn a bit more.


    Moreover, she had five children, which was a huge expense.


    Who knew what would happen in the future? There might be even more things that required spending Star Coins.


    Wandering Egg: "If you have more than ten, I can offer 600, but I can''t go any higher. If you have higher-quality ones, I can increase the price."


    Zhi Xia only had Level 4 crystal cores of the highest quality, but she knew that I''m Not a Zombie definitely had higher-level ones.


    Crystal cores were equally important to her, so she might not be willing to trade them inrge quantities.


    Of course, it was also because Zhi Xia had been providing her with arge reserve of food for these years.


    Zhi Xia calcted the crystal cores she currently possessed. She kept a few spares of each level and had one hundred Level 1, eighty Level 2, fifty Level 3, and twenty Level 4 cores avable for sale.


    She took one core of each level to Liu Lang for appraisal, reminding him that the better the price, the more likely there would be future transactions.


    The final prices she received were: Level 1 valued at 600 Star Coins, Level 2 valued at 1000, Level 3 at 3000, and Level 4 at 6000.


    After securely storing the remaining cores, Zhi Xia looked at the 410,000 Star Coins she had just obtained and suddenly felt a sense of overnight wealth.


    Indeed, the value of an item depended on the degree of necessity. Perhaps crystal cores were not considered high-level items for the realm trader, which is why they had a low price. But for Wandering Egg, the degree of necessity and value were different.


    This also gave Zhi Xia an intuition that she shouldn''t sell good items too cheaply to the realm trader in the future.


    Low-level enhancement agents cost 1000 Star Coins, and since she had given them to Fourth Brother, she couldn''t leave out Big Brother either.


    She decided to get one for herself as well. After all, she had plenty of Star Coins and it wouldn''t make sense not to treat herself.


    She realized that she needed to prioritize her exercise routine going forward. She didn''t want to push herself too hard and risk not being able to handle it.


    But she thought, "Why not give it a try? Even if it has just a small effect, it would still be worth it."


    Then, she spent some Star Coins to grant Pei Jing ess. In that moment, as Pei Jing entered the room, he sensed something because he happened to be thinking about Zhi Xia in the space, so he followed her in.


    Zhi Xia sensed that there was another person in the space and turned around to see that it was Pei Jing.


    "Oh my goodness, she was still operating at the trading desk!" Now she had exposed all her secrets and left herself with no cards to y.

 Chapter 251: This is the Truth

    <h4>Chapter 251</h4>


    However, the trading system has limitations. Other than themselves, even if theye in, they won''t be able to use it.


    After introducing this thing to Pei Jing, looking at the remaining 390,000+ star coins left for herself, Zhi Xia thought of ideas again.


    She already has quite a few ordinary dimensional nes, and has established good trading rtionships. She doesn''t need to add any more in this aspect, but without the Queen of Bugs, currently there is only the wandering egg that is a high-level dimensional ne. The amount of materials she can provide is also limited, so there is still ack.


    She left some change for backup use. 30 million star coins can only connect three high-level dimensional nes. After calcting, it feels very poor again.


    Dimensional ne information soon appeared, which were the Immortal Cultivation World and Magic World. Seeing the first two, Zhi Xia was instantly excited, but as soon as she saw thest one, she immediately felt cold, and her scalp was tingling.


    The avatar of the Ghost World is scary enough. After taking another look at the introduction and the items sold, it immediately made her feel like vomiting.


    Without any hesitation, she immediately chose to delete it.


    Even if she wasted 100,000 star coins, she didn''t want to feel scared every time she opened the trading system.


    It��s better to be more normal. Zhi Xia looked at the two dimensional nes above and felt a little relieved in her heart.


    And Pei Jing, who discovered that she was actually shivering, also stood up from the sofa and walked to her side, "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, a scary thing suddenly appeared and I deleted it." Zhi Xia turned her head and threw herself into his arms. The warm body temperature warmed her body and she felt veryfortable instantly.


    Being scared like this, the fighting spirit she had just now was gone. As for the two worlds she had just added, she��d better slow down before talking about them.


    Hearing her say it was okay, Pei Jing felt relieved.


    He wanted to pull her when he let go of his hand, but found that she was hugging tighter and tighter.


    Zhi Xia curled up in his arms, her voice soft andzy, "Let me hug, don''t want to let go."


    "Okay." Pei Jing held her butt and picked her up. Her whole person was like a suspender bear hanging on his neck. He walked to the sofa and sat down, taking her whole person into his arms.


    "Zhi Xia, let me tell you something, okay?"


    Hearing his gentle voice, Zhi Xia hmmmed, "What is it?"


    "Suddenly there are many more memories in my mind, about Pei Jing, An Meixia, and Pei Yuhao." In fact, there was very little real contact between the two, but living in the same yard, many things happened under his eyelids.


    The muddled things Pei Jianguo did were even clearer to him.


    His voice was still rtively calm, because from the moment he learned about it, he had been precipitating his thoughts.


    By now, he hadpletely straightened it out and epted it.


    Zhi Xia suddenly stiffened, her half-closed eyes opened, and the enjoyable expression no longer existed. She let go of her hand and looked at him nkly, not knowing what expression to make.


    At that moment, she suddenly felt her alienation.


    Before she got up, Pei Jing suddenly grabbed her wrist, "Aren''t you curious what those memories might be?"


    No matter what it was, it would not be a good memory for her now.


    Just like Gao Meiyun didn''t understand why, even with her rebirth, she still couldn''t stop Zhi Xia froming back, Zhi Xia didn''t understand either, why her life always had to have so many ups and downs.


    "I''m not curious, I don''t want to know either, I just want to live well, that''s all." Especially after knowing that An Meixia and Zhao Runze had entanglements with Pei Jianguo, she was not sure what she would be if she had those memories too.


    She is her, only now like this, isn''t it good?


    Indeed, those memories were far from beautiful, and even very painful.


    Even Pei Jing, who was just an onlooker, could understand how helpless and helpless she was in that life, and looking back, there was no one around her to help her.


    The humbleness in her voice made Pei Jing''s heart skip a beat, "Zhi Xia, we will live well, happy in this life, if you don''t want to know then you won''t know. In the days toe, I will support you and the child, believe me okay?"


    She seemed to have a longing for life, but actuallycked a sense of security all the time, so she always disguised herself like a porcupine, and once there was any wind blowing, she would wrap herself up tightly, trying to avoid harm.


    Pei Jing knew all this, so he kept lowering his profile to warm her with tenderness.


    He had also been very sessful in recent years and gradually got her to lower her guard against him.


    He also believed that they could always be like this.


    "Do you mind?" Even if Pei Yuhao was his child, An Meixia and Pei Jianguo had decades of marriage and living together.


    When she thought of this point, she couldn''t even ept it herself, which was why she didn''t want to have those memories.


    "Why should I mind?" Pei Jing smiled and pushed her down, "An Zhi Xia, just remember that you are my wife, the mother of my children. We will live happily, always so happy."


    Even with those memories, he was still Pei Jing, Pei Jing of this life. As for those extra memories, it would only make him more mature and better able to protect her and the children.


    Moreover, the facts were not as Zhi Xia imagined.


    In that life, An Meixia had already brought back Zhao Runze to the An family, but the Zhao family''s situation was not very good, and had not been epted by An Jingzhi.


    When Old Master An was seventy years old, Pei Jing happened to be there too, and both families drank a lot of wine together.


    An Meiyun was jealous that An Meixia was loved by someone, and deliberately tried to break up her and Zhao Runze. She took advantage of Pei Jianguo, who already had a partner at that time.


    But she didn''t expect Pei Jianguo to be thinking about going out on a date and handed over the drugged drink to Pei Jing. The two families lived close to each other. Pei Jing felt ufortable and went back home. Pei Jianguo was also kept by Wang Yue and was not allowed to leave. He drank several more sses of wine afterwards.


    An Meiyun didn''t know Pei Jing had drunk the drugged drink, she still thought it was Pei Jianguo who was drugged. So she tricked An Meixia into going to the Pei''s house, saying that Pei Jianguo was looking for her for something.


    At that time, the rtionship between the two was not very good, but no one had made it public. What��s more, knowing that Pei Jing had also gone back, An Meixia still trusted the character of this Pei��s young uncle.


    She just didn''t know that the ss of water Wen Qing had given her just a moment ago was drugged by An Meiyun. She just happened to start feeling dizzy when she arrived at the Pei''s house. Pei Jing and Pei Jianguo''s rooms were adjacent, with only an arm��s distance between the two doors, and she entered the wrong room.


    One was drugged and the other was burning with lust. With two people in one room, neither had aplete consciousness.


    At that time, Pei��s people were all talking at the An��s house. Wang Yue was worried about her son and went back to take a look, and discovered this scene.


    An Meixia was the daughter-inw she had looked out for her son. What��s more, when An Jingzhi disliked the Zhao family for not even having a house to live in, Old Master An had explicitly stated that after marriage An Meixia would live at his ce.


    Could it be any more obvious that he intended her to inherit his property?


    Old Master An''s yard was no worse than the Pei''s. She had coveted it for so many years but Pei Lao had never explicitly stated that the house would be left to the eldest son. This was a perfect opportunity right in front of her eyes. In a moment of confusion, she helped An Meixia into Pei Jianguo��s room.


    After doing something bad, she was afraid her trick would be exposed, so she ran away flustered. When An Meiyun came to check the situation, she discovered obvious traces of pleasure on Pei Jing''s body, and also came up with ideas. She messed up her own hair and ran out, saying that Pei Jing had slept with her.


    Later on, through a series of idents, Pei Jing had long seen that An Meiyun had bad intentions. And after this incident happened, he simply left and did note back untilter when he was discharged from the army.


    An Meiyun''s calctions were not perfect. She was driven out of the An family at the order of the old master, but An Meixia''s life was still ruined anyway.

 Chapter 252: Account clearly, Pei Yong Returns

    <h4>Chapter 252</h4>


    At that time, he had heard Second Brother talk about the situation at home, saying that Pei JianGuo quarreled all day after getting married. They even fought on their wedding day and were scolded by Old Pei. Later they were always separated, living in the same courtyard but never in the same room.


    After the reform and opening up, society was no longer so conservative about rtionships between men and women. Wang Yue was concerned about An Meixia''s house that she had invested so much in, and certainly did not want her son to get a divorce with nothing. So she had been pressing him.


    Pei JianGuo finally had an affair as he could not stand it. When An ZhiAng came back and learned about the grievances his younger sister had suffered, he gave Pei JianGuo a kick that made him impotent. But he also ruined his own future prospects because of this.


    Wang Yue hated An Meixia and her son even more after this, and picked faults with them even more aggressively.


    Until Pei Jing could not bear to watch any longer and drove them away, the second house also moved out.


    An Meixia brought Pei Yuhao to continue living here, while Pei Jing moved into Old Pei''s room.


    She talked very little and did not go out much either, at most just staying in her own room. Even when An''s family came to visit many times, she refused to see them.


    Although they lived in the same courtyard, Pei Jing and she would barely exchange a sentence in a few months. asionally when there was something, it would always be passed on through Pei Yuhao.


    Later when Pei Yuhao grew up and took her abroad, the contact between them was almostpletely cut off.


    Wang Yue was vicious enough to conceal this matter for a whole lifetime.


    It was not until he was critically ill and knew that the group could not be handed over to Pei JianGuo, that he originally wanted to make Pei Yuhao the first heir. But that was rejected.


    Later, Pei Yuhao rushed back from overseas to be a kidney donor for him, before finding out that his biological son had grown up before his eyes, yet he did not know it for a lifetime.


    The kidney match was very sessful, but how could he bear to take a kidney from him when as a father he had not contributed at all?


    Pei Jing gave up receiving the transnt. On his deathbed he changed his will, but this son could never be recognized back!


    Everyone knew that Pei Yuhao was Pei Jing''s nephew, so how could they tell others that he was actually his son!


    He was going to die, but An Meixia and Pei Yuhao were still alive. He could not let them bear this notoriety.


    With these memories, Pei Jing finally understood why An Jingzhi''s husband and wife were not forgiven by An Meixia.


    Because no matter how muchpensation, it could not make up for the harm they had suffered.


    Hearing what he said, An Meixia felt very peaceful at this moment.


    She did not know how to describe her mood at this moment.


    She felt that even if she gave him her heart now, she would feel happy.


    The hot arms around her tightened again, and Pei Jing''s heart was also relieved.


    No matter how it was in the past, for the rest of his life, his wife and children would be protected by himself.


    Pei Yong came back at noon on the second day, covered in dust. He came to Old Pei��s ce as soon as he got out of the train station.


    His features were sharp, and there were clearly many more wrinkles on his face. His movements were swift and decisive.


    An Meixia was fetching water in the yard at the time. He nodded politely when he came in, then headed for the living room.


    She went back to the room and said to Pei Jing, "Big brother is back. Do you want to go see?"


    She didn''t want to go. The distribution of Pei��s family property was Old Pei and Pei Jing��s business, and she didn''t want to get involved.


    Hearing this, Pei Jing stood up, "Then I''ll go take a look. You take care of the kids."


    Pei Yong had already arrived in the living room. Old Pei was sitting there. Seeing Pei Yonge in, he still suppressed the anger in his chest, and instead asked concernedly, "Have you eaten? Did you go home first when you came back? JianGuo��s kid should still be at work now, but he should be back home for lunch.��


    "I haven''t eaten yet. I came here straight from the train station." Pei Yong''s tone was indifferent. He sat down beside Old Pei, "Dad was so anxious to call me back. What''s the matter?"


    "If I didn''t call you back, were you not going toe back?" Old Pei asked back instead.


    Pei Yong was silent for a long time without answering.


    Old Pei sighed and looked at his appearance. He felt distressed and helpless.


    "When the children grow up, the family separates; when the tree grows big, it splits into branches. I''m old now these years, I don''t know how many more years I can live. While my mind is still clear, I''ll distribute the family property to you guys, so there won''t be any grievances ming me for favoritism in the end." In Old Pei��s self perception, though he might be biased in trivial daily matters, he was still very fair on the overall direction.


    Moreover, even if he was biased, it would absolutely be towards JianGuo. Not to mention Big Brother and his wife, the most pitiful was still the child.


    At that time, there was only this one boy in the family, and he was indeed a bit overindulgent.


    Although the third brother''s family has added a few more boys now, the age difference with JianGuo is still big too. It��s natural for adults and children to bepared, and children definitely need more coaxing.


    Now if he went to coax JianGuo, JianGuo himself would also feel awkward.


    It��s a pity that Wang Yue just doesn��t understand this reason, or rather, she just found an excuse.


    She felt you favored someone, so no matter how much you give, it��s useless to her.


    Pei Yong frowned, "Did Wang Yue say something?"


    In this family, second brother and second sister-inw had always kept a low profile, not fighting or snatching. He had seen the third sister-inw once when she got married. She looked gentle and delicate, speaking softly. Not like someone who would quarrel and grab things.


    And he also knew Wang Yue��s character. In the past, whether she was right or wrong, she would debate endlessly, and would not let things rest if she was right.


    In the few years he came back less, they also did not have any conflicts, which made him feel it was quite good this way too.


    Rather than continue quarreling, he was really afraid he could not hold on.


    However, what Pei Yong didn''t know was that in the few years he was away, Wang Yue had done more than just saying something. She made trouble overtly, messing up the whole family.


    Otherwise, Old Pei would not have been so determined to make them move out at that time, also hoping to have some peace and quiet for himself.


    "As a father, I don''t want to meddle too much into your husband-wife rtionship and stir up troubles. You can resolve your own family affairs when you go back. What I want to talk about today is the division of family property. Your second brother wille over after he gets off work at noon. Take advantage while all three brothers are here and divide it up, it''ll also be less troublesome." After Old Pei finished, he looked at Pei Yong, "Go back and take a look at your own home too. JianGuo is not young either. I also agreed with you and your second brother��s decision, to make them move out a few years ago. Little Jing''s wife has several small kids, and he can''t stay here to take care them, so I let them live at home. Otherwise with no man around, it would inevitably be unsafe for them to move out..."


    Whether they understood or not, Old Pei still had to exin everything clearly to them, to give himself a clear conscience.


    Just as Pei Jing said, the children of Big Brother and Second Brother all lived here until they grew up. It��s fair for the Third Brother to live here too, without owing money or effort from anyone.


    No one paid a penny towards it or exerted any effort towards it.


    Pei Jing came in from outside and stood in front of Old Pei and Pei Yong, ��Dad, Big Brother.��


    "Little Jing, long time no see." Pei Yong also stood up, but suddenly felt estranged from his brother.


    If it were before, even if they had not seen each other for years, he would not have been so cold.


    At the same time, Pei Yong was also warily aware that the matter Wang Yue caused trouble over this time was probably not small, as it implicated him too, even to the point that Father was so determined to distribute the family property.

 Chapter 253: In time to Hear

    <h4>Chapter 253</h4>


    Old Pei responded with a sound and stood up, "You two brothers can also catch up, boss. No matter what, your wife raised two kids alone, so you should go home and see them first."


    If he could be more thoughtful, Wang Yue wouldn''t be so indignant.


    When a person is dissatisfied in one aspect of life, they mustpensate in other areas. That was Old Pei''s thinking.


    Pei Yong nodded, "I know, dad."


    After Old Pei left, Pei Yong looked at Pei Jing, "Go to the backyard?"


    Pei Jing didn''t refuse. Instead, he looked rather eager.


    The two went out together and came to the backyard.


    Pei Yong struck first, but Pei Jing grabbed his hand and reversed it into an arm lock that pinned him down.


    He tried to break free using his experience but found himselfpletely immobilized without any chance of escaping.


    "Little brother, you''ve improved so much after a few years!" He was frightened. He had already received notice of being selected for the special forces squadron at the military district. He also knew Pei Jing would soon be an instructor there. While Pei Yong was happy for his capable younger brother, he didn''t expect him to be this capable.


    As a veteran of the battlefield, he was now at Pei Jing''s mercy without any power to resist.


    "There''s more." Pei Jing suddenly let go and went straight for his face.


    Pei Yong dodged and swung back with a punch.


    The two brothers started an all-out brawl in the open backyard, pure hand-to-handbat.


    Zhi Xia heard themotion up front and worried, but Old Pei just smiled and reassured her, "That''s how the brothers were before. They''re both from the army. Testing each other''s skills is normal. Don''t make a big fuss."


    Only then did Zhi Xia feel relieved.


    But when Pei Jing came back with obvious bruising on his face, she couldn''t help feeling distressed.


    Pei Jing was indifferent. He held her hand tofort her, "Don''t worry, I didn''t suffer any losses."


    In fact, he had deliberately let his brothernd some hits on his face to save face. Otherwise, if he hade out unscathed, his big brother would have lost face.


    Zhi Xia wanted to apply medicine for him but was refused. It was just a minor injury not worth wasting medicine.


    In Old Pei''s room, however, Pei Yong was wincing in pain with one hand on his lower back, still not having recovered from the shock.


    "Dad, did Wang Yue really offend Little Jing badly this time?" To beat him up so badly that he almost fell apart at his age.


    Also, Pei Jing''s skills had improved so tremendously that he felt doubtful inside. Did this kid have some fortuitous encounter?


    "You know his temper. If he was really offended, he wouldn''t care so much," Old Pei said while applying medicine for his eldest son. "When he first got married, I was worried that Zhi Xia was young and Little Three had a stubborn temper. If the two didn''t get along, it would be like you and Wang Yue. But really, as the old saying goes, one thing weakens another. My worries were unnecessary."


    Pei Yong understood. There was nothing more to be said!


    No wonder. Wang Yue offended someone, so Little Three couldn''t very well beat up his sister-inw. He could only take it out on his big brother.


    But Pei Yong wasn''t angry. On the contrary, he was very happy.


    In any case, venting out was better than keeping it bottled up.


    Pei Yong was in no hurry to go home. He started working in the factory as an ountant like Pei Sheng. If he went home now, he would only face an empty house.


    He didn''t expect Wang Yue toe alone at noon.


    The quarrel from yesterday seemed to have never happened. As soon as she came in, she enthusiastically greeted Old Pei and Pei Jing, not even forgetting Zhi Xia.


    Then she rushed towards Pei Yong, "I knew you woulde to dad''s ce aftering back, so after getting off work I didn''t even go home and came straight here."


    Pei Yong couldn''t ask her to ount when they first met. He nodded quite amiably, "You and the kids were at work, so I came here first. I was going to go home at noon, but since you''re here, let''s eat here."


    "Oh, I''ll listen to you."


    Zhi Xia quietly nudged Pei Jing, "Isn''t your eldest sister-inw very nice to your big brother?"


    It seemed that Pei Yong was indeed wrong for noting home for years.


    Pei Jing held her hand without replying, smiling silently.


    Pei Sheng also hurried over. Old Pei asked, "Your wife didn''te?"


    "She took Xiang Xiang to the state-run restaurant to eat. Those two said they wanted to go out to eat while I wasn''t home today and wouldn''t wait to go together tonight."


    Jiang Su knew her ce. As the second household without a son, the family property distribution would definitely not end up in their favor no matter what. It was doomed to be unfair, so they might as well note and live their own lives.


    With jobs and a house, their family didn''tck money to spend. Nothing to distribute was fine, and their lives could still be good.


    Old Pei didn''t say much, just told Sister Zhang to serve the food.


    Pei Yong went to the yard to wash his hands, and Wang Yue followed him. "You know dad wants to talk about distributing the family property today, right?"


    Pei Yong nodded. He spoke first, "It''s dad''s things, so he gets to decide what to distribute and to whom. We have jobs and houses, so there''s no need to keep thinking about it."


    Wang Yue clenched her fingers. Her untrimmed nails for days pricked her palms.


    But thinking of her purpose, she still endured and said, "I know you want the brothers to get along harmoniously. But you should also consider our own family. Second uncle''s two daughters and his own house��he has no need for another house. Third uncle''s children are small, and he has prospects himself. He''ll surely get promoted this time aftering back, so he won''tck a house. Our Pei JianGuo is the only one grown with a need to get married and have kids. Being dad''s secretary in the government sounds nice, but it''s just errand running. He has no prospects himself and can''t count on getting a share of the house distribution. That''s why I think, dad saved quite a bit of money over the years, and it''s not just this house. No matter who gets the house, the other two families will get mary subsidies. We need to get this house. What do you think?"


    Pei JiangGuo had just reached the yard when he overheard this segment that disparaged him. He instantly fell silent, not saying a word, turned around, and walked away pushing his bike.


    Hearing the sound, Wang Yue looked back and happened to see his retreating figure. Sheined, "This child is getting more and more ill-behaved. He''s already here but left without even greeting us."


    "Oh, did you hear what I just said? We must get the house." Wang Yue was very shrewd. Even if they got money equivalent to the house value, they wouldn''t possibly buy such a nice house.


    "Dad will have properly considered who is most suitable to get the house. No matter how it''s distributed, we''ll just take it as it is," Pei Yong said impatiently. "Also, Pei JianGuo��Wang Yue, you''re the least qualified to call him useless. It''s your fault he ended up like this. And being a secretary isn''t bad. He''s free of worries. Isn''t that what you hoped for back then?"


    If the child was still young, he could still be corrected. But at over 20 years old, the personality was already fixed and couldn''t be changed. Why bother criticizing and making everyone upset?


    It was better to just ept it. Life could still go on, and he wouldn''t starve himself.

 Chapter 254: Extremes

    <h4>Chapter 254</h4>


    "What you said sounds good, but when I think about it, you have been quite unrestrained these past few years living outside, not caring at all about family matters or knowing what''s on Father Pei''s mind. If we really divided things ording to his wishes, wouldn''t our family suffer huge losses? Pei Yong, you are the eldest son and Jian Guo is the eldest grandson. We should be getting the lion''s share," Wang Yue said angrily and breathlessly.


    "And regarding Jian Guo''s matters, how did they be my fault? I''m his mother. He''s my one and only son. How could I not wish the best for him?"


    As Wang Yue spoke, she couldn''t help but feel sorrow for herself and began sobbing. "You only care about others. Have you ever thought about me and our child''s life and death? Think about it yourself - these past few years, how many family matters have you taken care of? And now you''re even more outrageous, not even willing toe home, leaving both children to me. I have to take care of the older and the younger one. After taking care of their food and drink, I still have to handle work. I''m destined to toil away for your family for the rest of my life, right..."


    Pei Yong closed his eyes, and that feeling of a tight cord pulsing painfully at the back of his head became even more intense.


    It had been this way for some time now.


    Ever since whenever he heard Wang Yue''s endless prattling, he would get a headache. Even the pain from the beating he got from Pei Jing yesterday couldn''tpare to the intensity now.


    But Wang Yue didn''t notice and kept on talking.


    Knowing Summer could see Pei Yong through the window with his brows tightly knitted in endurance. She nudged Chenye next to her and whispered something into his ear.


    Chenye turned and ran outside, shouting loudly, "Uncle, Auntie, what secrets are you whispering about?"


    Wang Yue''s voice instantly stopped as she looked at Chenye in annoyance. "What''s it to you, little kid, minding so much of others'' business? Go y by yourself!"


    Pei Yong, however, breathed a sigh of relief. In a few steps he went over and hugged Chenye in his arms, patiently exining, "Let''s go take another look at that new cherry tree sapling nted in the backyard. Who knows when it''ll bear fruit. When it does, Uncle will remember toe back right on time to eat cherries."


    That tree had just been nted by Pei Jing this morning. He had wanted to nt a jujube tree but Father Pei didn''t agree to chopping down the apricot tree. It still bore quite a lot of fruit this year and they could eat apricots againe autumn. It would be such a pity to chop it down now.


    Pei Jing could onlypromise, but he still held fast to the idea of nting a jujube tree. If it didn''t work out this time he could do it slowly in the future. It wouldn''t be toote.


    Seeing Pei Yong being so patient with another person''s child, something he had never done with his own son, Wang Yue was so angry she nearly gritted her teeth to pieces.


    But she had forgotten that when Pei Jian Guo was little, Pei Yong would hold him in his arms all day, piggybacking him about. He was the only child in the household then, cherished and doted on by the whole family in the first few years after he was born.


    But naturally a child couldn''t keep being pampered like when he was small after growing up. And Wang Yue also couldn''t bear to see her son suffer any hardship. At the slightest disagreement she would bring up her family''s life-saving grace.


    By the time Pei Jian Guo grew up, when Pei Yong wanted him to temper himself through a stint in the troops, Wang Yue still couldn''t stand him suffering any grievance or hardship. She insisted on him taking up a civil service position. Everyone in their family was military and it was only by relying on Father Pei''s prestige that he was arranged a job in the government.


    And so that was how things had been all these years.


    In the living room the father and two sons sat in silence.


    Pei Sheng looked at Father Pei then nced at Pei Jing, his heart aching for his big brother once more.


    Living in the samepound for so many years, no one understood the goings-on between big brother and his wife better than him. He also knew of big brother''s difficulties.


    Even as his younger brother, he could feel the oppression in this marriage. One could well imagine how much more torment the person going through this, Pei Yong himself, felt.


    And with the Wang family''s life-saving grace hanging over them, even divorce was but a pipe dream.


    If he had to live this kind of life himself, Pei Sheng sincerely hoped he could have died on the battlefield instead. At least he could have retained some credit as a fallen hero, with no regrets towards the nation or his heart.


    Pei Yong coaxed Chenye for a bit before letting him down to the floor. His expression was normal, no unhappiness detectable.


    Wang Yue wanted to follow him into the living room but heard him say, "Second Sister-in-Law and Third Sister-in-Law aren''t here, it wouldn''t be appropriate for you to go in either. Just wait outside."


    At this moment he was thankful that Jiang Su and Knowing Summer were unwilling to get involved.


    Wang Yue was somewhat unhappy but Pei Yong simply stood there, waiting to see what she would do.


    She could only say resentfully, "Remember what I said. And once the division is done,e back home quickly. It''s been years since you visited, you can''t not even show your face to your child."


    Pei Yong didn''t live far. She knew he deliberately avoideding home, also knowing that he still held that woman in his heart. She had cried and made trouble over it in the past. Pei Yong had even threatened her that if she made another fuss he would retire and go back to their rural hometown to farm. Only then did Wang Yue have no choice but to stop.


    Pei Yong was the sort of person who meant what he said and would do as he promised, just like when he had agreed to marry her. She just didn''t feel assured with the rtionship and daily interaction at close quarters he had with that woman. Even though they tried their best to avoid suspicion, Wang Yue still couldn''t rest easy.


    Therefore she had forced the other woman out by threatening to spread ugly rumors. But it only made Pei Yong secretly long for her for the rest of his life. Wang Yue truly felt aggrieved.


    What she obtained was all meant for her. Her parents and brothers- and sisters-inw had used their lives to exchange it for her. His life should have all belonged to her too. What right did he have to still long for another?


    Pei Yong walked into the living room. He knew they had heard the conversation outside just now but said nothing about it, only sitting down. "However Father decides to divide things, that''s how it''ll be divided. No need to consider anything else."


    Wang Yue deliberately utilized Father Pei''s sympathy for him to achieve her own ends. This wasn''t her first time doing so.


    Father Pei heaved a sigh, exhaustion evident in his clouded eyes. "You''re all aware of this house''s origins. Although my share should only have been a portion, I was thinking to give the house to Knowing Summer, which of course would be the same as giving it to young Pei.


    Father Pei knew clearly that the house itself wasn''t the main issue but rather the objects buried in the rear courtyard.


    If it hadn''t been for Grandfather Pei stating it inly at the time, he would never have agreed to ept this house no matter what, not expecting for it to nt the seeds of discord resulting in the difficult division of family property now.


    If Knowing Summer hadn''t married into this family, ording to Grandfather Pei''s original intention, the objects in the rear courtyard would have gone to the An family while the house went to him. That would still have been better than giving them to outsiders.


    But since Knowing Summer had already married in, and Old An said the rear courtyard items were to be Knowing Summer''s dowry, it was only right and proper for the house to go to her as well.


    As for his other two sons, he would not shortchange them either.


    In the past Pei Jing wouldn''t have been greedy for this house. As for Knowing Summer''s things in the rear courtyard they could simply have been dug out.


    But now he couldn''t think that way, not with the memories he had obtained.


    The reason Wang Yue could be so unscrupulous was precisely because, no matter how much fuss she kicked up, everyone still had to humor her in the end, right?


    Why should he give up what was rightfully his just because she wasn''t happy?


    Seeing Pei Jing, Pei Sheng also felt ted inside.


    It was one thing for him to not want the house but after being oppressed by Wang Yue for so many years he inevitably harbored some resentment, only enduring it out of distress for his big brother.


    And now the idea of the house going to young Pei was very refreshing. At the same time the thought of what his big brother would have to put up with next also made him deeply sad.

 Chapter 255: Think it Through

    <h4>Chapter 255</h4>


    Old Pei took out the savings he had just withdrawn and ced them on the table. "This is what I''ve saved up over the years, a total of over 7,000 yuan. The house goes to my third son, and there''s no share of this money for him. You two families can split this money. Even at the highest price, the house is only worth around 3,000 yuan. The passbook has more than the value of the house, so consider itpensation for you. Pei Yong, you don''t have any objections, do you?"


    In the end, Old Pei still felt sorry for Pei Yong, knowing that if he only counted a value of 3,000 yuan, Wang Yue definitely wouldn''t let it go easily.


    This way, the other two families wouldn''t lose out either. In fact, with houses of their own already, they were actually making money.


    "I have no objections," ording to Pei Jing''s original thinking, even if Old Pei didn''t give him a penny, he wouldn''t have anyints.


    How much the older generation had was due to their own abilities, and who they wished to give it to was their choice. What he despised most was sponging off others.


    "That''s good if there are no objections." Old Pei split up the money and handed it to them. "You can all go back now too. I have no other demands of you, just live your lives well, that''s all. I''m still healthy now and have people looking after me. I''ll live with my third son from now on. I don''t have much life left, so I''ll leave what''s left of the money to him. If I live longer, then you can split it up again after I die."


    They were very practical words, but sounded sorrowful.


    Although Old Pei was retired, he still got subsidies every month and was supported by the state. The money he had saved up over time was not a small sum.


    Pei Yong closed his eyes, knowing that what his father just said was mainly meant for him to hear.


    He didn''t understand either, his position wasn''t low and his allowances were not meager. What was the point of causing such family discord over these things?


    He was the first to take the money from the table. His sturdy little forearm trembled slightly.


    The sound of his knee hitting the floor was very real. When he got up again, he still didn''t say a word and left directly.


    Old Pei waved his hand, as if he had been drained of strength too.


    Pei Sheng and Pei Jing didn''t dare speak until they were in the yard. Zhi Xia came out from the room and said, "Just before Eldest Brother went in earlier, I saw him talking to Sister-in-Law in the yard. He didn''t seem to be doing too well, it looked like...he had a headache."


    Especially after Che Nyan ran over to interrupt Wang Yue''s nagging, he was clearly much more rxed. Together with his upright military uniform, it really made one''s heart ache.


    Although this had nothing to do with Zhi Xia, since she had seen it, she still ought to remind them, just in case.


    But she had said what she should, whether they would take it to heart was a matter between the brothers.


    "A headache? Zhi Xia, are you sure you didn''t see wrongly?" Pei Sheng wasn''t doubting her, just that he had never heard Pei Yongin of headaches before.


    Indeed, after so many years, that big brother of his, who used to sometimes conceal nothing from him, was like a different person - he had lost his former cheerfulness and had instead be gloomy and irritable.


    Pei Sheng and Pei Yong were not too far apart in age. Having grown up together and fought on the battlefield side by side, their rtionship was naturally very close. Not waiting for Zhi Xia��s reply, he couldn��t restrain his impatience and made to leave, "No, I have to go see. I��ll take him to get checked out at the hospital, what if there really is some medical issue!"


    Pei Jing stopped him, "Second brother, going to the hospital can wait till another day. It��s not very appropriate for you to go over right now."


    In case the two of them started arguing again, it would be awkward whether others saw it or not.


    On the contrary, with them not around, Wang Yue would be somewhat more restrained.


    Pei Sheng thought about it and realized he was right, so he said he would go tomorrow instead and hurried off.


    Pei JianGuo cycled away anxiously, his mind full of what Wang Yue had said: "In the government, his nice-sounding title is Secretary, but bluntly put, he''s just an errand boy. He himselfcks capability too, relying on him to get a share of the house isn''t realistic."


    He didn''t understand either why his mother was always so critical and disdainful of him.


    He couldn''tpare with his uncle, couldn''tpare with the An brothers, and even An Zhiang who was once seen as a petty hooligan had now joined the army, while Liu Jun had entered the police force.


    They had all relied on their own ability, the only one whose secretary job relied on his elders pulling strings was him.


    When he was little and came home proud of his third cing in exams, the first thing she said was, "Your uncle and An Zhiqing used to be tied first cers, what''s there to be arrogant abouting third?"


    When grandpa and dad wanted him to go to the army toughen up, she said what good would the army do, all that sun and wind, exhaustingbor, enduring years of hardship with no guarantee of making something of himself. With his constitution since young, unable to endure the slightest hardship, if he went to the army he wouldn''tst three days.


    No matter what he did, he was always useless in her eyes.


    When young he didn''t understand why his parents were always fighting, but after growing up he seemed to be able toprehend why his father was always reluctant to return home.


    Even he himself was increasingly disinclined to head home.


    The more he thought about it, the more indignant he felt, pedaling faster and faster.


    At the street corner, a cry rang out as Pei Jianguo crashed to the ground in confusion.


    ...


    When Pei Yong returned home, Wang Yue deliberately waited for him.


    Seeing hime in, she quickly went up to ask him, "How did it go? How did father divide things?"


    Pei Yong handed her the money he was holding without a word. Wang Yue took it and her expression instantly darkened.


    "Didn''t I say I wanted the house? Pei Yong, why don''t you listen to a word I say? What''s the use dividing up money? Can this money buy back the house?" Though Wang Yueined with her mouth, her hands nimbly counted the money.


    She counted money very swiftly, clearly very familiar with it.


    Listening to the flipping sounds, Pei Yong silently waited.


    Wang Yue finished counting, 3500 yuan. Though it exceeded the value of the house, she still felt it was somewhat regrettable.


    She looked at the perpetually silent Pei Yong, knowing he was sulking again, and scoffed, "I''ll set this money aside. When the child grows up there''ll be more ces to spend money. You holding on to it is useless. If there''s any real need in future, thene ask me for it."


    Pei Yong didn''t reject her since he originally brought the money back for her.


    Old Pei''s grieved face was still imprinted in his mind, and it emboldened Pei Yong. "Wang Yue, tormenting each other for so many years is enough. Consider me owing you, I''ll leave the family money and house to you. Let''s get a divorce."


    Wang Yue''s hand clutching the money froze, stunned for ages before she regained her senses.


    "Pei Yong, can you say that in good conscience to me? To my parents and elder brother? To answer for all those years..." The old stories brought up again did make him feel he owed her once, but now, he only wished he was the one dead back then.


    No matter how she scolded or cried, eventually she stopped, "Don''t I know you detest me, your heart is still on that woman, but I''m your wife! I gave birth to your children!"


    "You can disagree to the divorce, but I won''t being back in future." Pei Yong was utterly calm from start to finish. He had yed out this scenario countless times in his head already, including the scratch marks Wang Yue left on his face, all within expectation. "As you wished, the family property is divided. Father and brothers two and three don''t owe you anything, neither do they owe me anything. If your heart is unresigned, go make trouble at my ce instead. Or rather, I can return this life to your Wang family, how about it?"


    He knew his words were heartless. He had sincerely wanted to spend his whole life with her once, but he really overestimated his endurance.


    Wang Yue had always thought it was because he couldn''t forget his first love, yet she didn''t know they came together for the Revolution then, not for some petty romance.


    Long before deciding to marry Wang Yue, things had already been made clear between them, and both buried that affection deep in their hearts.


    It was Wang Yue who kept clinging on and forced the other party away with rumors, eventually causing her death on the road and leaving Pei Yong with lifelong guilt.


    Wang Yue was shocked by Pei Yong''s threats. She froze for a long time before she came to her senses.


    "I''m leaving tomorrow afternoon to stay at my father''s ce. If the children want to see me they cane over. You think things through clearly and give me an answer, or if you have any conditions they can be raised too." Pei Yongughed derisively and left.

 Chapter 256: Gremlins

    <h4>Chapter 256</h4>


    Back in the room, ZhiXia didn��t ask about the details of dividing up the family assets. No matter how much was divided, it wasn��t important to her.


    She handed the package she had prepared to Pei Jing, ��These are all for Fourth Brother. The medicinal potions are also inside, but I didn��t dare write about their effects in the letter. You should call him and let him know.��


    Because letters could potentially be intercepted and inspected, there was absolutely no privacy.


    Of course, phones could also potentially be wiretapped, but generally there wouldn��t be such urrences with family phones, unless during special times.


    Pei Jing took the package and put it to the side, smiling as he said: ��I��ll write to him. No one else will be able to tell what it is.��


    An ZhiAng was only rash in his actions, but he wasn��t stupid. On the contrary, he was very shrewd.


    ZhiXia had been giving him things these past few years, and he himself must have had some feelings about it, yet he had never asked and not even mentioned it. This was enough to show that he understood in his heart.


    Moreover, he had also given ZhiXia his army sry for these past few years. He didn��t even reject it.


    Although this money couldn��tpare to the value of those things, it was currently all he had. Aside from anything else said, he was still her older brother, and had given his little sister a promise long ago.


    Pei Jing added a few more sentences to ZhiXia��s letter before resealing it.


    ��Eldest brother and second brother each got 3,500 yuan from dividing up the assets. This house goes to you. Dad will live with us in the future,�� Pei Jing told ZhiXia the results of dividing up the assets.


    Father Pei was only living here. He had someone to take care of him and wouldn��t require extra effort from them. On the contrary, he could even help them out.


    ��You don��t have to specially exin to me. I don��t have any opinions no matter how it��s divided,�� Still, ZhiXia was extremely surprised. ��How can this house be given to me? Shouldn��t it be given to all of us?��


    She had assumed the house would be given to Eldest Brother��s family. At most, the things in the backyard would be given to her, since WangYue was also quite capable of kicking up a fuss.


    ��It was Dad who clearly stated that it should be given to you. It seems that I��ll have to rely on you for my future livelihood. If I offend you in the future and you chase me out, won��t I have to sleep on the streets?�� Pei Jing stood up and pecked her lips teasingly.


    ZhiXia giggled and said, ��If you hadn��t reminded me, I would have forgotten that I could. You have to serve me well in the future, otherwise I��ll chase all of you out.��


    Pei Jing helplessly rubbed her head, messing up her sleek hair and evoking ZhiXia��s extreme annoyance.


    ��I��m taking Chenye and Wanqing with me to the post office. You should have a good rest at home.��


    The triplets were taking an afternoon nap. Without the two older ones causing a ruckus, ZhiXia could rx more.


    Exhausted by the spring weather, Father Pei was taking an afternoon nap while Sister-In-Law Zhang was also resting.


    ZhiXia closed the bedroom door and entered her space.


    She was still extremely interested in those two new, advanced nes she had just added. She couldn��t wait to go research them.


    The contacts were Elder Immortal Rogue from the Cultivation World, whose profile picture was of an elderly man with the air of an immortal. His specific facial features couldn��t be seen clearly, as if shrouded by ayer of mist.


    ��Greetings, Elder Immortal. I am an ordinary person from the mortal world. I hope I can learn much from you in the future.�� ZhiXia greeted him first, but didn��t receive a reply for quite a while.


    She wasn��t disappointed. On the contrary, she felt it was only natural.


    An immortal disdaining mortals was very normal after all.


    The Magic Elf had long pointed ears and a very beautiful appearance. Her whole body floated above her profile picture against a fantasy-like forest background.


    Compared to the Cultivation World contact, the Magic Elf was much more enthusiastic. She had already sent ZhiXia a greeting message yesterday right after being added.


    Magic Elf: ��Hello! Are you human? I��m a little elf. Wee to chat with me!��


    ZhiXia hurriedly replied: ��Hello little elf. I��m human. First, I��m very sorry I was busy with something yesterday and didn��t see your message, so I wasn��t able to reply in time. Please forgive me. I hope we can be friends in the future and share our joy with each other.��


    She deliberately matched the childish tone.


    The Magic Elf replied very quickly: ��Hello Miss Rich. You��re my first human friend. We elves live in the forest. The tribe elder said humans outside are very deceitful and can��t be easily trusted. You won��t lie to me right?��


    MissRich: ��Of course not. There are differences between humans too. There are good people and bad people. Also, my world here isn��t the same as your world. Most of the humans here are very simple and sincere. They love hard work and life itself, and look to the future with hope...��


    Magic Elf: ��That��s good then. I choose to believe you. And even if you were a bad person, you wouldn��t be able to trick me anyway since you can��te to my side.��


    Her words were a bit cheeky. That was why the little elf agreed to be friends with ZhiXia.


    Ever since she was born, all she had heard about humans were bad things. While afraid, she also developed great curiosity. She didn��t dare leave the forest ore in contact with outside humans. But the contacts rmended by the Internar Trade System were different. With the system''s assurances, there was no need to fear deception.


    In ZhiXia��s judgment, the elf was probably not very old and had the mental capacity of a six or seven year old child at most. She spoke with innocent vivacity.


    Since ZhiXia already had experience coaxing children, soothing the elf wasn''t difficult for her.


    The elf was very talkative. She did most of the talking herself without ZhiXia probing her, and clearly exined the situation on her side.


    ZhiXia would asionally chime in with some words and also told the elf a little about her own circumstances. The elf listened with gusto.


    ZhiXia didn��t bring up the topic of trade at all. She simply apanied the elf in chatting for one or two hours.


    Hearing the cries of children outside, ZhiXia hurriedly sent a message: ��Little elf, I��m very sorry but I have to stop chatting now. My child woke up and is crying now. I have to go out andfort him first. Let��s chat again next time!��


    It was a bit of an excuse, since she could always bring the children into her space to be cared for by the babysitting robots.


    But simply apanying the chat was also tiring by itself, plus she hadn''t rested that afternoon. She was currently yawning nonstop from fatigue.


    Magic Elf: ��So you already have children! Now that we��re already friends who get along so well, let me give your child a gift. Stick these two leaves on the child��s forehead. They will receive my blessing and have good luck!��


    ZhiXia chose to ept the gift. Two leaves appeared in her storage space.


    She took out the leaves and ced them on her palm, but didn''t notice anything special about them.


    MissRich: ��My side here is just the ordinary mortal world. It doesn��t have magic as incredible as your side, but there are also many fun things. Let��s chat again next time. I��ll also send you a gift. I still hope you won��t look down on it.��


    Magic Elf: ��It��s alright. I��ll be very happy just receiving a gift from you. Don��t be dyed. Go take good care of your babies!��


    ZhiXia hurriedly exited her space. There were only two leaves. The elf had probably assumed she had two children.


    ZhiXia also wouldn''t deliberately tell the other party she had five children. That would seem like soliciting gifts.


    She first put away the two leaves, with no ns to give them to the triplets. After all, the three of them were still little and couldn��t leave the adults�� care right now. The twins were already older and ran around outside every day. They needed good luck more.


    And the triplets, they would still have opportunities in the future.

 Chapter 257: What Follows

    <h4>Chapter 257</h4>


    There was a knock on the door, and Pei Jing''s voice appeared outside. Zhi Xia hurried to open the door, only to see Pei Jing and Pei Yong both standing outside.


    "I just fell asleep and didn''t hear it. Did you wait outside for a long time?" Zhi Xia pretended to have just woken up and rubbed her eyes.


    Pei Jing yed along very cooperatively. "Not that long. I just happened toe back when my brother was here too. We were chatting in the yard. Is the kid hungry or needs to pee?"


    "Probably both." Zhi Xia let him in.


    Pei Yong just took a look from the doorway and said, "You go ahead and help take care of the kids. I''ll go see if Dad is awake."


    After Pei Jing entered the room, the two of them deftly took care of the three children.


    In the evening, Pei JianGuo and Pei Shuangshuang came over with their grandfather.


    The scrape on Pei JianGuo''s forearm had been treated, but the area wasrge and looked rather shocking.


    Their grandfather noticed it first. "What happened here? How did you get injured?"


    "I fell off my bike by ident at noon. I already went to the hospital to get it treated. It''s nothing, Grandpa, don''t worry." After Pei JianGuo exined, he no longer showed any sign of the distress he had disyed due to Wang Yue''s words at noon. Instead, he looked very cheerful. His eyes even seemed to radiate light as he greeted Pei Yong, "Dad."


    Pei Yong also responded with a sound, beckoning the siblings over to talk.


    Thest time they met was four years ago. Although they had been in phone contact in between, four years was still a long time with considerable changes.


    His son''s face had matured quite a bit. Although he still smiled silly like a child who hadn''t grown up. His daughter had also grown uppared to her former innocence. She just seemed a little restrained, standing behind her brother with her head lowered without saying a word.


    Pei Yong didn''t me her, because he knew he didn''t have the right. No matter what happened between him and Wang Yue, when facing the two children, he would always feel guilty for not fulfilling his own responsibilities.


    "Dad, are you going to divorce Mom?"


    Pei Shuangshuang''s sudden sentence shocked everyone.


    The smile on Pei JianGuo''s face also disappeared, and hisplexion became silently solemn.


    Their grandfather was also worried and asked, "JianGuo, is Shuangshuang telling the truth?"


    Zhi Xia didn''t want to get involved in their affairs, so she secretly signaled to Pei Jing and took the two children out.


    Pei Yong nodded without any hesitation. "Yes, it was me who proposed it. JianGuo has raised the two children all by himself. I''ll leave the house and money all to Wang Yue and move out with nothing."


    Pei Shuangshuang puckered her lips and sobbed, "I don''t agree. I don''t agree with you getting divorced, Dad. Please don''t get divorced. I don''t want to not have a dad."


    Although she was already 20 years old, when facing her parents'' divorce, she was still just a child.


    Pei Yong felt distressed, of course, and went over to hug her. "Shuangshuang, even if your mom and I get divorced, I''m still your dad. It won''t change anything. And Dad promises you that he wille back often to see you in the future. If you and your brother miss Dad, you can alsoe to see Dad. Alright?"


    "No, I don''t want that. I just don''t want you to get divorced." Pei Shuangshuang pushed Pei Yong away in distress. "Anyway, I don''t agree. If you insist on getting divorced, then you are no longer my dad."


    Pei Yong kept a calm face. Although he felt somewhat disappointed, her words did not affect his heart at all.


    Perhaps this was just the kind of person he was. Once he proposed something that he had never mentioned before, there would be absolutely no room for regret. Just like his tolerance for Wang Yue had reached its limit after this incident of splitting up the family business.


    He could tolerate living in Wang Yue''s shadow. He owed her that. But he couldn''t let his old father still have to look at his daughter-inw''s face to live. It was unreasonable.


    "No matter if you recognize me or not, it does not change the fact that I am your father. You don''t understand things between your mom and me. We have been entangled for a lifetime. She is also very unhappy. Letting go now is the best for everyone. She got what she wanted - the house, the money, no worries - so she can also pursue her own happiness."


    He would not want Wang Yue to suffer miserably. Even if they couldn''t be husband and wife anymore, they still had two children as a bond between them. As long as they could have peace for the rest of their lives, that would be enough.


    "How do I not understand? I understand everything. You are pursuing your own happiness, but have you ever thought about what would happen to me and my brother?" Pei Shuangshuang looked to Pei JianGuo for help. "Brother, say something. You don''t agree with Mom and Dad getting divorced either, right?"


    Pei JianGuo remained silent. He didn''t dare to say he agreed, because the mother who had raised him was in his heart. But as he grew older, he increasingly understood his father''s pain.


    In this marriage, neither of them was happy. Letting go was the best option.


    But obviously, his mother was unwilling, so someone was destined to get hurt.


    "Why don''t you say anything?" Pei Shuangshuang looked at her brother in disbelief. Shepletely couldn''t understand the meaning behind his silence. Did he agree with their parents getting divorced?


    Pei JianGuo avoided her gaze, not daring to look at Pei Shuangshuang. But she pushed him violently. "Pei JianGuo, can you do this to Mom? Have you forgotten that Mom raised the two of us? Other than giving money asionally, Dad didn''t evene back once in years. And now he still wants a divorce. Yet you are taking his side?"


    Were Pei JianGuo and Pei Shuangshuang really the same?


    When he was little, although Pei Yong and Wang Yue fought, it wasn''t so serious yet. He had also enjoyed family life with both parents around.


    At that time, Pei Yong also doted on him very much, always holding him in his arms and carrying him on his neck whenever he came back, holding him up high, carving small wooden spears for him, and affectionately calling him a good son...


    He also clearly felt that as his mother became more nagging andining, his father became more and more distressed and came back less and less.


    When he was little, he also couldn''t understand and med Pei Yong. But when grown up, he found that he couldn''t stand it more and more either, and wanted to escape, yet it seemed that he couldn''t get away.


    At least now he could understand Pei Yong.


    Pei JianGuo remained silent. Pei Shuangshuang cried and ran away. He could only chase after her.


    Their grandfather sighed, feeling truly sad yet somewhatforted. "JianGuo has really grown up now."


    But growing up came at a price.


    He could understand Pei Yong because now he was the one bearing Wang Yue''s oppression. Sometimes he even truly wanted to escape recklessly. But that would make him seem very ungrateful.


    That night, the whole family entered the space.


    Zhi Xia ced two tree leaves on the twins'' foreheads. A gorgeous glow passed and fell into their bodies, then everything became calm again.


    She was stunned for a moment. "So... they will have good luck from now on?"


    She didn''t understand herself, let alone Pei Jing.


    After sending the two children to rest in their newly purchased bedroom, Pei Jing took her into his arms. "Don''t think too much. Whether they have good luck or not, as long as the kids grow up healthy, that''s enough."


    Zhi Xia thought that made sense.


    She naturally nestled into Pei Jing''s arms and reluctantly said, "You really have to leave tomorrow?"


    Pei Jing gave a muffled hmm, and his rough palms had already slipped under her clothes, grasping the special scenery.


    The air also became hot. She could only console herself, "I almost forgot that you can also enter the space in the future. Then our family can still be together in the space."


    "Yeah, as long as I have free time, I''lle to see you guys." He didn''t dare to say that although he could enter the space, the time they could spend together would probably not be much.


    This was the country''s first special operations team. This mission was very important, and as the instructor, his role was even more crucial.


    In the considerable length of time toe, he would be extremely busy, busy to the point where he might not even have time to rest.

 Chapter 258: The Difference in Simple Name, Does It make a Difference

    <h4>Chapter 258</h4>


    Pei Yong waited for half a day, but did not see Wang Yuee over. He had originally thought that if he did not see here over in the afternoon, he would go to her unit to find her. He must get this matter settled today.


    But he did not expect that after lunch, Wang Yue came over.


    She had red eyes and looked haggard, as if she had just cried hard.


    Pei Yong lowered his eyes, not daring to meet her gaze, "Have you made up your mind?"


    Wang Yue nced at him, then turned her gaze away to look at Old Pei, "Dad also agrees that he should divorce me?"


    She had originally thought that given her hard work over the years, and with two children in between, Old Pei should at least try to stop him.


    But after hearing what her daughter said when she returned home yesterday, with no one in the family trying to persuade them, on the contrary everyone was looking forward to their divorce, she was truly disappointed.


    There was also her dear son whom she had cherished from a young age, but he was the one who hurt her the most. She had cherished him in vain till he grew up.


    Faced with Wang Yue''s questioning, Old Pei sighed, "I know you are ming us, but you have to think for yourself, if you hadn''t pressed him too hard, how could things havee to this?"


    As someone from the older generation, what he least wanted to see was problems in his children''s marriages.


    But seeing his eldest son looking exhausted physically and mentally, he actually hoped that he would rather be liberated.


    "I know what you mean. But I never thought that after living together for so many years, I would leave you with such an impression - that I pressed him too hard? Huh!" She was once an innocent girl. But her family was destroyed overnight, leaving her alone not knowing where to go or what to do. What else could she do?


    And after getting married, seeing him get along happily with his old me while everyone around was saying that she broke them up, that she was not good enough for him, if not for that, how could she have forced him away?


    Moreover, she did not mean for the incident where the military convoy was ambushed on the way, causing her death. She just simply wanted that woman to leave.


    It was precisely because she felt insecure that she wanted to grasp him tightly, to have control over him.


    Also because at that time, he was the only one she could rely on.


    Brushing those thoughts aside, Wang Yue wiped her tears and spoke about what she had considered overnight.


    "Pei Yong, I can agree to divorce you, but I have one condition. If you agree, we''ll divorce. If you don''t agree, we''ll continue torturing each other. Anyway, you won''t get rid of me for the rest of your life." She didn''t think she was asking too much, because he owed her this.


    "You say it." Pei Yong only gave a light two words. Things had already reached this point. No matter what she wanted, even if it was his life, he would give it to her without hesitation, just to seek liberation.


    "Dad is also here today. So I''ll just state my requirements outright." Wang Yue red at him resentfully. "After our divorce, you cannot marry another woman. And you''ll share responsibility for the two children. No matter if it''s their marriage or other expenses in the future, you''ll be responsible."


    This would be equivalent to neutralizing Pei Yong.


    He would not be allowed to remarry. His future allowance would also have to be given to the two children. It would be no different from now. The only thing that could be different was that their husband and wife rtionship would cease to exist.


    Wang Yue had also thought it through carefully. Anyway he only came back once every few years now. With or without this person did not make much difference.


    She thought Pei Yong would at least consider it for a while, but unexpectedly, he did not even hesitate for a moment before nodding his head, "I agree."


    "You ..." Wang Yue could not tell if she was happy or not, because she felt even more angry.


    When she left, she was still wondering why Pei Yong was so bothered.


    With or without a divorce, was there a difference in the name only?


    But she did not know that for Pei Yong, there naturally was.


    Without a divorce, she would be the daughter-inw of the Pei family, and she could make trouble for the entire Pei family with this status and they would have no peace.


    But with a divorce, she would only be his ex-wife, mother of his children, no longer the daughter-inw of the Pei family, and would have no reason to go bother Old Pei. It would solve the problem once and for all.


    At dusk, the red clouds filled the sky.


    Zhi Xia sent off the dragon and phoenix twins at the door. Old Pei was also reluctant to stand aside to see Pei Jing and Pei Yong leave together.


    The two children had matured. Faced with separation, they no longer made a fuss like before.


    Life settled down again.


    It took more than a month before a reply came from the Immortal Cultivation World.


    Only then did Zhi Xia know that it was not because the other party was aloof. On the contrary, Old Prankster from the Immortal Cultivation World had a humorous and amiable personality, like a child who had never grown up, gluttonous and fond of wine. It was just that he was often in secluded meditation, so it was very normal not to get in touch for years.


    She had thought that after giving Pei Jing ess rights to the space, they could at least reunite there.


    But she did not expect that he would be so busy that he did not even have time to eat or sleep, and had only seen him twice in the space in a month, each timeing and going in a hurry.


    Tomorrow would be Old Master''s 70th birthday. Although they did not n a grand celebration, it was still necessary for the family to get together.


    Zhi Xia had specifically asked Old Prankster from the Immortal Cultivation World for a jar of osmanthus honey wine. She had originally thought that she did not have any good stuff on her side. Even with her friend''s help, it would probably still be difficult to get in tune with others.


    But she did not expect the Old Immortal to be very easy to get along with. He treated her more like a junior. asionally when free, he would chat with her about daily life. He was also very interested in watching TV series.


    Zhi Xia deliberately curried favor by asking the aquaculture tycoon to help her download some fantasy dramas for him. She did not expect that he would really like them so much that he regretted having only known about cultivation all his life without having had a nice romance when he was young.


    Zhi Xia went to the living room to fetch two empty wine bottles left unused in the house and poured the osmanthus honey wine into them.


    The aroma of this spiritual wine was really good. Just smelling it, one felt a little tipsy, but the mind remained exceptionally clear, invigorating.


    Suddenly, Zhi Xia thought that although the Old Immortal said mortals could consume this wine, after all it was something from the Immortal Cultivation World. If the potency was too strong, it might cause suspicion.


    She thought about it and decided to drink a sip herself first to get a sense of it.


    She did not dare to drink much, just really one sip to taste it.


    Compared to the white liquor Old Master usually drank, the taste of this was obviously much milder. And after drinking it, her whole body felt warm andfortable.


    When she came out of the space, Sister Zhang knocked on the door and came in from outside. At a nce, she saw Zhi Xia''s flushed red cheeks.


    She was stunned for a moment, and reached out to check her forehead, "Zhi Xia, why is your face a little red? Could it be a fever?"


    Zhi Xia dodged guiltily, "No, maybe the weather is a bit too hot and it��s too stuffy inside."


    Sister Zhang thought that since Pei Jing left, apart from asionally going next door to see Old Master and Old Madam, she had hardly gone out, staying at home all day. It was possible she felt suffocated.


    "Zhi Xia, you don''t have to stay at home every day. If you want to go out, just let me know. With me at home watching over, how could you not feel at ease?" Sister Zhang said caringly.


    "How could it be about not feeling at ease? On the contrary, I feel too at ease." Zhi Xia looked at Sister Zhang gratefully. "You also know that I just don''t like going out very much. Being at home alone not knowing where to go, I might as well stay at home."


    "Well, just don''t stand on ceremony with me." Sister Zhang was afraid that she was young and shy, and would feel embarrassed about some matters.


    Speaking of An ZhiAng��s side, he had already received the package Zhi Xia sent over half a month ago.

 Chapter 259: Seventy Years Old, osmanthus blossom Brew

    <h4>Chapter 259</h4>


    Just as she had suspected.


    After years of eating various things that Zhi Xia had sent him, he didn''t notice anything at first. He could attribute it to coincidence and his own carelessness. But after such a long time without discovering anything, he could only say that he was too clueless.


    It was evident that An ZhiAng wasn''t that clueless.


    He had thought about asking Zhi Xia directly, but then he thought that since she hadn''t mentioned it herself, asking would only burden her psychologically. It was better not to ask.


    Recalling their few interactions, it wasn''t difficult to guess that there were things Zhi Xia didn''t want him to know, and she simply hoped that he would silently ept them.


    Since it was what she wished for, An ZhiAng naturally wouldn''t make things difficult for her.


    As soon as he received the package, he rushed back to his dormitory. As he entered, he warned hisrades first, "My sister sent me this package, don''t even think about it."


    Others would usually receive things sent from home, and there were some food and drinks that everyone would share.


    An ZhiAng wasn''t stingy, but after spending these few years together, everyone knew about his peculiarities.


    When others sent things, whether it was for consumption or use, he wouldn''t hesitate to share, even if he gave it all away. Only when his sister sent something, no one could even have a taste. He would keep it all for himself, like a devoted brother.


    Although everyone would jokingly call him stingy, deep down they understood and envied the bond between him and his sister.


    They themselves had siblings, but to have a rtionship that reached this level, with continuous shipments over the years, from small things like food and drinks torger items, and not being stingy at all, it was truly rare.


    Upon opening the package, he, as usual, first looked at the letter.


    After reading it, he started searching through the contents of the package.


    When he found the item mentioned in the letter, he secretly clenched it in his hand, then stuffed everything else back into the cupboard before entering the restroom alone.


    Without any hesitation, he drank the item down.


    He smacked his lips but didn''t notice anything different.


    However, the next day during training, he realized a significant change.


    Both his speed and endurance had greatly improved, and as he continued training, within just half a month, his physical abilities had doubledpared to before. And this improvement didn''t stop; instead, it kept increasing.


    Later on, An ZhiAng became afraid of attracting too much attention, so he had to quietly hide a portion of his strength and only show that he was slightly stronger than others.


    The military had issued a noticest month that within two months, they would conduct a selection process, and those selected would join the Special Forces. This was the best affirmation of their abilities and the fastest path to promotion.


    Because every ordinary member of the Special Forces held a rank equivalent to an officer outside.


    Therefore, one could imagine how challenging this selection would be.


    The previous An ZhiAng was also among the top in the military, and it was not only a matter of necessity for him to participate in this selection but he also had great confidence.


    But now he could be sure that even their currentmanding officer wouldn''t be his match if he so desired.


    A soldier who didn''t aspire to be a general wasn''t a good soldier. Who would be willing to remain stagnant for their whole life?


    Let''s split the story into two parts.


    Pei Sheng even took special leave to attend Grandfather''s 70th birthday celebration, bringing along his wife and daughters.


    Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang couldn''t make it, but Pei Jianguo did.


    Both families gathered here, and the twins followed Wenqing outside to y. The triplets were so rare and cherished that Xia didn''t need to intervene at all.


    The two grandfathers were chatting in the living room, theirughter filling the entire courtyard.


    Liu Ling and Zheng Suchun were in the backyard picking cucumbers. Unlike the Pei family, Grandfather and Grandmother didn''t know how to farm. The backyard was taken care of by Zhou Sao, who nted cucumbers, tomatoes, and green beans. This way, they didn''t have to buy vegetables all the time, sometimes even having to queue up. With their own space, they could grow fresh produce to eat.


    Zhi Xia approached them and asked, "Sisters-inw, what are you whispering about? You look so happy."


    Liu Ling nced at Zheng Suchun and saw no objection before speaking, "We were saying that your second sister-inw might be pregnant. She''s not sure herself, so I was asking for some advice."


    Liu Ling finished speaking and teasingly looked at Zhi Xia, saying to Zheng Suchun, "Actually, if you want to ask about this matter, Zhi Xia probably has the most experience, right?"


    Zhi Xia blushed at the question. She didn''t have any experience; she only used a test strip whenever the timing was off.


    But they didn''t have that kind of thing yet. With so many people around and everyone being so shrewd, she didn''t dare to give it to Zheng Suchun.


    Zheng Suchun''s face also turned red. "Little sister, it''s still uncertain, so please don''t spread it around. Let''s wait until we can be sure before saying anything. In case I''m not pregnant, it will save everyone from disappointment."


    She was actually quite d about her choice. Just as she had thought, An Zhiren, despite being divorced once, had never been together with his ex-wife for some reason.


    Thinking back to their first time together and how awkward he was, although it was painful for her, it felt sweet in her heart, like eating honey.


    Moreover, he was gentle and courteous, and the inws weren''t meddlesome. The siblings in the family also got along well. Their life after marriage was even better than when she was at her parents'' house, making her feel like she had fallen into a honey jar.


    If they had another child, he could focus on his work, and she could take care of the family. The two of them working together, the future days would be even more beautiful.


    "I actually think it''s better to have your second brother take you to the hospital for a check-up. If you are indeed pregnant, it''s better to know early and be prepared," Zhi Xia said,paring An Jing''s ferocity. The old man couldn''t handle it, and it wouldn''t be good if he got hurt.


    Although he was gentle and reserved when she was pregnant, once he let loose, he was like a fierce beast. Many times, she felt overwhelmed.


    Seeing their genuine concern, Zheng Suchun felt happy about her decision. "Hmm, I''ll talk to him about it when I go back tonight."


    In theory, it should make him even happier on Grandfather''s 70th birthday to hear the news.


    But she wasn''t certain yet, and she was afraid it would disappoint the elderly.


    After all, An Zhiren was indeed not young. Before getting married, her mother had told her that if she married him, she might face pressure to have children and she was worried that she wouldn''t be able to handle it.


    Fortunately, her mother-inw treated her well and never mentioned the matter of having children in front of her.


    Of course, it could also be because she had just recently gotten married, so she hadn''t been pressured to conceive.


    During the meal, both tables were filled to the brim.


    The old master took out the wine brought by Zhi Xia and filled Mr. Pei''s cup, saying, "Zhi Xia brought this. Let''s taste it today and have a good drink."


    Mr. Pei wanted to say something, but the bottle cap had already been opened, and the fragrant aroma of the wine instantly wafted over. He immediately closed his mouth and looked expectantly at the wine.


    After Mr. Pei poured himself a cup, he couldn''t wait to pick it up and take a sip, his eyes instantly brightening.


    The two old men exchanged nces, neither of them saying a word. After pouring themselves drinks, the old master calmly covered the bottle and ced it aside.


    No one thought much of it when one table had two types of wine.


    It wasn''t until Mr. Pei''s wine bottle was empty and they saw the two old masters chatting away without finishing their cups that he quietly took the wine bottle in front of the old master and secretly poured himself a cup.


    After tasting it, his eyes widened. "Uncle An, this isn''t fair. We''ve been treating guests to good food and wine for a long time, and you''re secretly keeping this good wine and food for yourself and my dad, without letting us taste it?"


    The old master only realized that his wine had been stolen, but he didn''t blush and said, "Your dad and I are getting old. We can''t handle the strong taste of this liquor. We can only have a little of this mild one to satisfy our craving. Besides, what kind of guest are you in my house?"


    It would have been fine if he had secretly drunk it, but now he was making a fuss about it.


    There were only these two bottles of wine, and they weren''t enough for him to drink.


    Sure enough, after being provoked by Pei Sheng''s words, An JingZhi also noticed that the wine the old master was drinking was out of the ordinary. He immediately asked for a taste, and the others also mored to try it. Even Pei JianGuo, the younger generation, became less polite.


    One bottle of wine was finished with just a little for each person, and they allined that the old master was being unfair, making the old master fume with anger.


    This lively scene at the table was not just about fighting over the wine, but also a joyous scene of children and grandchildren surrounding their elders.


    Zhi Xia and Liu Ling listened to the conversation on the side and giggled. They also asked Zhi Xia what kind of wine she had brought for the old master. It seemed so precious.


    She said it was osmanthus wine sent by a friend from the north to Pei Jing. Since he wasn''t there, she took the opportunity to share it.


    Without Gao Meiyun this time, the old master''s 70th birthday was unusually cheerful, without a hint of disturbance.


    It was just that when half of the wine had been consumed, Pei Jing finally arrived, slowly and leisurely.

 Chapter 260: Come back Specially

    <h4>Chapter 260</h4>


    "Grandpa, I wish you happiness as vast as the Eastern Sea and longevity greater than the Southern Mountain. Please forgive me foring backte," Pei Jing said as he looked at his grandfather, who seemed to have darkened but be sturdier than when Pei Jing had left. His strong and lean figure was wrapped in a military uniform, adding to his masculine charm.


    "No need to apologize. Come and sit down for dinner," Old Pei said. Seeing that Mrs. Zhou had already gone to the kitchen to bring bowls and chopsticks, he didn''t say more but instead asked Pei Jing, "Why did you suddenlye back without any notice? How are things over there? Any difficulties?"


    Seeing Pei Jing''s travel-worn appearance, Old Pei figured he hade straight home without even washing his face first.


    Pei Jing took the bowl and chopsticks and thanked Mrs. Zhou. He sat down next to Old Pei and said, "Things are fine over there. Our Special Operations Force has received maximum authority and support from above. I took the rare opportunity of getting a day off toe back and see how you''re doing."


    Old Pei grinned and secretly nced at Zhi Xia. He jokingly said, "Boy, over the years you''ve learned to sweet-talk, eh?"


    In the past, Pei Jing would be gone for a long time without ever saying he missed his grandfather.


    Chenye and Wanqing had already run over, climbing onto Pei Jing''sp and calling him Dad, melting his heartpletely.


    His two sturdy arms picked them up to sit on his legs. He actually wanted to sit next to Zhi Xia, but today was his grandfather''s day, so it would be inappropriate to neglect him too much.


    The two of them sat at separate tables, their eyes asionally meeting across the air, leaving the two old men unable to close their mouths.


    "Alright you two, stop making trouble. Go eat your own meals. Your dad just got back and hasn''t even had time to eat anything hot. Let him have a meal first before ying," Old Pei said, unable to watch his son''s sappy behavior.


    The two children were quite obedient. Worried about their dad, they ran back to Zhi Xia''s side.


    Pei JianGuo picked up the wine bottle to pour some for Pei Jing. "Little uncle, everyone rarely gets together today. Have a drink too?"


    Pei Jing quickly stopped him. "I won''t drink. You guys go ahead. I have to rush back tomorrow morning and drinking affects work."


    "That rushed?" Pei JianGuo was startled. But he put the wine bottle back on the table. "Can''t you stay one more day? Leaving tomorrow afternoon should be fine too."


    Hearing his tone, Pei Jing asked, "Do you have something going on?"


    Pei JianGuo''s face visibly blushed. Whether it was shyness or the alcohol, no one knew. "It''s not a big deal actually. It''s just...I''m seeing someone and I want to bring her home to meet Grandpa, hoping little uncle can stay an extra day to meet her too."


    "Oh? When did this happen? You''ve kept it pretty hidden," Old Pei teased Old Pei. "And here I am, asking around about good girls for you. Turns out, you''ll be bringing a daughter-inw for me out of the blue."


    Old Pei was also very happy. If Pei JianGuo got married, it would get a weight off his chest. He eagerly asked which family the girl was from, her age, job etc.


    Pei JianGuo''s face grew redder from the alcohol. "We haven''t been together long, just over a month. I didn''t n to decide so quickly originally. But her neighborhood is pushing her and since she doesn''t work, she''ll be sent down to the countryside if she doesn''t marry soon."


    The two old men looked at each other, suddenly feeling worried.


    They had watched JianGuo grow up and knew he was a simple boy.


    Hearing this, the girl was probably quite young and now facing being sent down to the countryside.


    It wasn''t that they looked down on her background. They just didn''t know if she was genuinely willing to spend her life with him.


    What if she just wanted to use JianGuo as a shield to avoid being sent down? Or had ulterior motives? They worried the boy would get his heart broken.


    But Pei Jing suddenly spoke up. "Then bring her back to take a look. I can leave tomorrow afternoon instead. By the way, does your mother know?"


    "My mom doesn''t know yet. I wanted Grandpa to meet the girl first. If you approve, then I''ll tell my mom," Pei JianGuo thought to himself.


    Old Pei and Pei Jing understood. Wang Yue had always been somewhat mercenary. The daughter-inws she tried to find were usually from well-off families. Pei JianGuo was probably afraid to let Wang Yue know about this girl with poorer background.


    By bringing her to Old Pei first, if she could get an elder''s approval, it would make dealing with Wang Yue easierter.


    Now the only unmarried one left was An ZhiXian. Especially after Pei JianGuo revealed his rtionship, ZhiXian instantly became the main target for marriage urges.


    After eating, Pei Jing didn''t drink. He stood up while the others at Old Pei''s table continued chatting and drinking.


    Putting down his chopsticks, he said, "Grandpa, I''m covered in smelly sweat and haven''t washed yet. Keep drinking, I''ll go freshen up ande back to chat with you guys."


    "Go on, go on," Old Pei said. Calling to Zhi Xia, "Zhi Xia, you should go back too. No need to stay here and be busy. We have Mrs Zhou and your mom and the others."


    "Alright, I''ll take the kids back first then," Zhi Xia stood up and very naturally said to Pei Jing, "The three little ones are napping inside. Go carry them back."


    Old Lady Pei wanted to suggest leaving the children here to continue napping, but realized he had rushed back urgently and probably wanted to see the kids too. So she kept silent.


    Pei Jing followed Zhi Xia into the room. The three little ones were lined up sleeping soundly on the bed. Chenye and Wanqing tailed behind Pei Jing like little ducklings.


    Zhi Xia picked up the chubbiest oldest child while Pei Jing took the other two, the twins following behind as the family of seven headed home.


    Stepping outside, they realized an off-roader was parked in front of the Pei''s home, surrounded by nearby vigers pointing and gossiping.


    Zhi Xia''s eyes instantly widened as she turned to look at Pei Jing. "Did you drive that back?"


    The two kids had bolted towards the vehicle the moment they saw it, instantly blending into the crowd.


    Pei Jing nodded, eyes brimming withughter. "It''s the squad car. I made it back rushing over. Saves time."


    "It won''t cause any trouble right?" Zhi Xia would rather Pei Jing note back than get into trouble because of it.


    "Don''t worry. Have I ever made you worry when handling things?"


    He was currently the Special Ops squadron''s highest leader, although the military department was still above him of course. But he still had the authority to use a vehicle.


    Only then was Zhi Xia relieved. Calling him, she said "Open the doorter and drive the car into the yard. With so many kids outside, I''d feel awful if someone identally scraped or scratched it. Or threw a rock at it."


    Cars were still raremodities, otherwise it wouldn''t draw crowds.


    Plus with so many unruly children, who knew if they might think scratching it was fun.


    Because Zhi Xia was home today, the housekeeper Mrs. Zhang had taken the day off.


    Back inside, the three little ones were still fast asleep, not stirred awake at all.


    Chenye showed Pei Jing drawings he had done. Wanqing chattered away about something or other.


    Taking advantage when they were distracted, Pei Jing swiftly pecked Zhi Xia on the lips.


    They smiled at each other. Everything that needed to be said was understood without words.


    Seeing the two kids jabbering nonstop, Zhi Xia interrupted them. "Alright, stop making a fuss. Let Dad wash up first. He''s covered in smelly sweat. Don''t you think it''s gross?"

 Chapter 261: The Purpose of Returning

    <h4>Chapter 261</h4>


    "Dad is the best dad, I don''t dislike him at all," Pei Wanqing''s little mouth was sweeter than anyone else''s. She hugged Pei Jing''s arm and refused to let go, still saying, "Dad, I don''t think you stink, mom thinks you stink, we won''t pay attention to her."


    Pei Jing hugged her and pointed at her nose with his finger, "Even if you don''t dislike Dad, you would dislike yourself. Be good and listen, let Dad take a bath first, and then y with youter, okay?"


    "Okay then, I''ll wait for you." Wanqing obediently let go of her hand.


    "Go to the space to wash, put the children in too, so they don''t wake up cryingter." This was the first time Pei Jing had made such a request.


    Zhixia had no objection, but when it came to the twins, they were unwilling to go.


    The two little guys were looking at the cars in the yard, looking curious and wanting to go in.


    Pei Jing went inside totch the door, and also urged the two children that when Old Pei came back, they should let him open the door for them.


    ording to his memory, the two old men would chat veryte today, but there was still a possibility of idents.


    Also, no one woulde in when the door to their room was closed, but there was still a possibility that the two little guys would forget to close the door when they went out.


    After everything was prepared, the two of them entered the space.


    Zhixia wanted to get him a change of clothes, but he pulled her into his arms and kissed her.


    The rough palms rubbed against the skin, and the porcin-like skin gradually turned pink.


    His actions were too impatient, scaring Zhixia, "Aren''t you going to take a bath? Jing..."


    She called him several times in a row before he finally stopped.


    But he didn''t take any clothes, he just went into the bathroom naked like that.


    The sound of rushing water sounded, from beginning to end, only two minutes.


    In fact, Zhixia had just regained her breath when she saw him rushing out again.


    "What''s wrong with you today?" The long period without contact caused a strong sense of difort, making her eyebrows twitch slightly, crying out, "It hurts..."


    He stopped moving, trying his best to restrain himself. His taut body also showed that he was ufortable. Hey by her ear, his hoarse breath, "Zhixia, let''s have another baby."


    He didn''t wear a condom when he entered, so Zhixia had already guessed.


    Although they could be together in the space, he suddenly came back without any news, just to make the arrival of this child more reasonable.


    Zhixia had heard him talk about things in that life, but having memories and not having memories were still different attitudes.


    Even though she knew it was their child, she only listened to it like a story from an outsider, with no extra emotions.


    But obviously, Pei Jing did.


    After a moment of hesitation, she wrapped his lean waist tightly and nodded slightly, "Okay."


    With the fall of this voice, he also moved.


    Like a vast ocean, huge waves, drifting up and down, but never seemed to stop.


    The white light in her mind shed by, and she felt like she was about to die.


    Never before had she experienced such a ferocity, as if even her bones were about to be crushed.


    But he seemed tireless...


    As he had expected, Old Pei didn''te back until veryte.


    Of course, it was also possible that he deliberately left time for them to get together.


    Pei Sheng had taken his family back long ago, and Pei JianGuo also followed along.


    As soon as he entered the door, Old Pei asked him, "Why are you ying with the two of them alone in the yard? Where is Zhixia?"


    "She was tired and sleeping in the room," Pei Jing replied.


    Old Pei murmured, looking somewhat drunk, "Then keep the childrenpany, I have to go lie down for a while, these old bones are getting more and more useless."


    The wine today was really good, so he was greedy for two more cups, still struggling to get back, afraid of losing face in front of the younger generation.


    But that old guy surnamed An was no better than him. He must be lying in bed now, just like him, pretending.


    Pei JianGuo was also a little dizzy. After sending Old Pei back to the room, he said a few words to Pei Jing in the yard and left.


    Wen Qing ran in to call the dragon and phoenix twins, saying they wouldn''t leave today and would stay at Grandpa and Grandma''s house.


    The dragon and phoenix twins looked forward to ying. After watching the cars for a while, they didn''t seem interesting anymore, so they ran out with him.


    The yard regained tranquility again, and Pei Jing also went into the house, back into the space.


    Porcin-like skin on Zhixia''s body was marked for the first time. The bedding had been simply tidied up, but still had a messy feel.


    Pei Jing took another shower before lying down and hugging her to sleep together.


    By the time dinner came, she still hadn''t woken up.


    Pei Jing had to go out again. The dragon and phoenix twins still hadn''te back. He went to see Old Pei, but was driven out in disgust. He even said not to call him for dinner, he didn''t want to eat.


    He also went to the An��s house again. The living room had been cleaned up, the extra table had been put away, Old Madam and Mrs. Zhou were eating dinner with the three children.


    Seeing Pei Jinge in, Old Madam quickly called him, "Xiao Jing, how is your dad? Did he drink too much?"


    "He drank a bit much. He''s sleeping now, and said he won''t eat dinner."


    Old Madam red angrily, "These two old men, one worse than the other, greedy for drinks. I told them to drink less, they act like they��ve never seen wine in eight lifetimes."


    Pei Jingughed along, then asked about Old Master An''s situation, and learned that it was about the same as Old Pei, so he felt relieved.


    "Sister-inw Zhang is not at home today. Have you and Zhixia eaten?" Old Madam said, "If you haven''t, tell her not to cook. Sister-inw Zhang rolled quite a lot of noodles. You two cane over here to eat.��


    In fact, the extra noodles were left for the old master, afraid that he would be hungry if he didn''t eat at night. With Mrs. Zhou not at home, Old Madam didn''t know what to make for him to eat.


    "No need, we can just eat at home. I just came to see if these two little guys hadn''t gone back sote," Pei Jing declined.


    "They were looking forward to ying. Don''t worry, let them both stay here tonight. Wen Qing is here too, so you don''t need to worry about anything." The children had also grown up, they could bathe and eat by themselves, without having to wait on them like when they were young, which could save a lot of trouble.


    Seeing that the two of them were also willing to stay, Pei Jing returned.


    He didn''t cook either alone. Returning to the space again, Zhi Xia was still asleep.


    He kissed her forehead distressedly, knowing that she must have been exhausted in the afternoon.


    Looking at this beautiful face, thinking about her and the children, Pei Jing''s heart slowly calmed down.


    It seemed that no matter how bitter or tired he was, as long as he saw them, he would no longer feel tired.


    Zhi Xia didn''t know when she woke up. Her two legs were like decorations, without any strength to move. Even going to the toilet, she had to be carried by him.


    She red at him angrily. Pei Jing guiltily wiped his nose, not daring to speak.


    After eating a hawthorn fruit and resting for a while, she finally felt alive again.


    Pei Jing made rice for her and waited on her hand and foot from start to finish, before she finally gave him some good expression.


    At noon, Old Pei put on a neat new set of clothes, looked exceptionally spirited. Usually he was only willing to wear cloth shoes, but today he also changed into leather shoes. He didn''t go to the backyard anymore after finishing breakfast. He sat in the living room, peeking outside from time to time, as if waiting for something.

 Chapter 262: The Object of Bae Jianguo

    <h4>Chapter 262</h4>


    still wore the same military uniform as yesterday, but he had already washed it and hung it to dry in his personal space, only putting it on again this morning.


    There was nothing particrly different about <Zhang Jing>''s attirepared to usual, since she always dressed decently.


    The dragon and phoenix twins wore matching outfits. The brother and sister looked extremely alike. Over this period of time, even their height and weight had remained synchronized. If not for <Wanqing> wearing a skirt, outsiders would not have been able to distinguish which was the brother and which was the sister.


    Sister Zhang had gone early in the morning to queue up for groceries. Under Old Pei''s instructions, she had deliberately bought more meat, just for the sake of treating the guestsvishly for lunch today.


    The sun was just short of noontime when


    rode over on his bicycle, a youngdy sitting on the back.


    When Old Pei heard the sound, he hurriedly got up to wee them in.


    "<JianGuo>, I was nning toe earlier, but I had a lot going on at work today and couldn''t take leave. So I arrived a bitte. I hope I didn''t keep you waiting too long?"


    wheeled the bicycle in and leaned it against the wall, while introducing the two of them.


    "Momo, this is my grandfather, uncle and aunt."


    "Grandfather, uncle, aunt, this is <Guo Momo>, my girlfriend."


    <Guo Momo> also hurried to greet them.


    "Notte at all, work is important. You must be tired and hot from the trip over. Hurry in and cool down." Old Pei warmly weed them in.


    and <Zhang Jing> followed them inside.


    The youngdy looked quite young, with a round little face. When she smiled, two little dimples appeared. She wasn''t especially pretty, but she looked rather cute. This was probably her first time visiting, so she seemed a little shy.


    It was a rare urrence for


    to bring gifts with him.


    As soon as they entered, <Guo Momo> took the things from


    ''s hands and gave them to Old Pei. "Grandpa, I didn''t know what you liked, but <JianGuo> said that you and uncle really enjoy drinking tea. So I brought some tea leaves for you."


    "Ah child, it''s good enough that you came. Why bring anything and spend your money?" Although Old Pei said this, he smiled so widely that the wrinkles on his face deepened. One could easily tell that he was extremely delighted on the inside.


    <Guo Momo> smiled and walked over to <Zhang Jing> as well. "Auntie, I also brought you a jar of snow cream. I hope you don''t look down on it."


    "<Zhang Jing>ughed. "Well in that case, I won''t stand on ceremony."


    <Guo Momo> looked towards the dragon and phoenix twins. With strangers around, the two little ones were still quite well-behaved. "These must be the famous dragon and phoenix twin siblings that <JianGuo> always mentions. They really do look adorable. I''ve brought presents for you too."


    "<Zhang Jing> saw how enthusiastic <Guo Momo> was. Disregarding everything else, the impression this youngdy had given since entering was actually not bad at all.


    She was warm and knew propriety, taking care to include every person in the household.


    The twins looked towards their parents and only epted the gifts after obtaining their consent. "Thank you, sister."


    "I''m d you like them. You two are just so cute!" <Guo Momo> also gave bracelets to the triplets, passing them to <Zhang Jing>.


    Old Pei was extremely satisfied. He had originally prepared red packets, but after some thought, added more money inside before giving them to <Guo Momo>. "Dear child, I''ll ept your gift. And this is a red packet from grandpa for you. I hope you won''t look down on it."


    <Guo Momo> declined for a while, but eventually


    took it and passed it to her before she bashfully epted.


    <Zhang Jing> also gave her a red packet. After all, it was the youngdy''s first time visiting, so she and


    were the elders.


    Old Pei chatted with <Guo Momo> for a while, asking about her parents. He found out they were factory workers. She had two older brothers and an older sister. The eldest brother was already married, so they could be considered a decent working-ss family.


    Sister Zhang soon finished preparing lunch, with six dishes, three of which contained meat. One dish was all meat, truly a sumptuous reception.


    After they finished eating,


    brought <Guo Momo> to see the vegetables growing in the backyard. Old Pei asked


    , "What do you two feel about <JianGuo>''s girlfriend?"


    "<Zhang Jing> didn''t want to make any judgements about her son''s matters given that <Wang Yue> had already divorced


    . "She seems fine," was all she said.


    nced at <Zhang Jing> but said, "The girl herself doesn''t seem bad and they look well-matched. But she tries too hard to ingratiate herself."


    The ingratiation epassed not just <Guo Momo>''s gifts and words towards Old Pei and <Zhang Jing> during her first visit to her boyfriend''s home. It also included her manner of speech and tone when interacting with


    , all of which centered around him.


    And clearly,


    pped up her fawning attentionpletely. His gaze towards her as she spoke betrayed his delight.


    Of course there was nothing inherently wrong with this. The premise was that <Guo Momo> would not secretly harbor ulterior motives against them. If she turned out like <Wang Yue>, coveting this and that, it wouldn''t take more than a few words for her to thoroughly control


    .


    Old Pei was more open-minded about it however. "I actually think she''s pretty good. As for the fawning, it just shows that she''s quite smitten with <JianGuo> and thus willing to make an effort. Which is also a blessing for him."


    "<Zhang Jing> was just reminding Old Pei not to expect too much, as the reality of the situation still stood.


    She wasn''t deliberately dampening his mood either. But the facts were in.


    <Wang Yue>''s criteria for a daughter-inw were firstly a good family background, and secondly to have a job. <Guo Momo> failed on both counts. Even if Old Pei agreed, she still wouldn''t get past <Wang Yue>''s checkpoint.


    Moreover, even if


    insisted and somehow managed to marry her, their future lives would still face problems.


    Mother-inw and daughter-inw conflicts were an age old issue not easily resolved.


    also had somewhat of a mama''s boy personality. If things went badly in future, Old Pei''s peace would likely be affected too.


    Old Pei sighed helplessly as he thought of <Wang Yue>''s reaction.


    only stayed for a while before it was time to return to work. He left with <Guo Momo>.


    After they were gone,


    pulled <Zhang Jing> outside. "Don''t you have date trees in your personal space? Take one out for now. I should nt it first while I''m still here."


    <Zhang Jing> looked at him in surprise. "Isn''t there no more space left in the backyard? Why not nt it at grandpa''s ce?"


    nced towards the backyard direction and insisted, "Just nt it in our backyard." If things went as expected, the child should already be in her belly. nting it now would allow it to adapt for a year before fruiting the year after, which would be perfect timing when his child started teething and could eat the dates.


    <Zhang Jing> didn''t know why he was so adamant, but still took out a date sapling. The apricot tree at the back had not been gically modified and yielded tiny, sour fruit despite heavy production. Recing it with a date tree seemed good too.


    It was just that Old Pei''s side...

 Chapter 263: As if Something was Missing

    <h4>Chapter 263</h4>


    "Chenye, go tell your grandfather that your maternal great grandfather is looking for him to y chess..."


    Zhixia watched with wide eyes as Pei Jing tricked the child into deceiving Old Pei.


    She looked back in disbelief, colliding with the gaze in his eyes.


    But she saw that usually steady expression, rarely carrying a few hints of childish naughtiness.


    She felt it was very interesting andughed, not exposing him, but asking, "Are you going to secretly chop down the tree and nt it there? Aren''t you afraid your dad will get angry when hees back?"


    "Don''t worry, the old man doesn''t really like eating apricots that much, he just couldn''t bear to because there were so many fruits on the tree."


    If he didn''t really want to nt a jujube tree, he wouldn''t have borne to chop down the apricot tree either.


    But with not much space, it was inevitable to make a choice.


    As soon as Old Pei heard his old friend was looking for him to y chess, he rushed over excitedly, and as he left, he instructed Pei Jing, "Aren''t you leaving this afternoon? If you have nothing to do, go back and take a nap. The mountain roads aren''t easy to walk. Be careful on your way back."


    "I know, Dad, don''t worry. Help me say hi to Grandpa. I won''t specially go over when I leaveter. I''ll go see him next time Ie back," Pei Jing said.


    Old Pei nodded and went out the door with the dragon and phoenix twin grandchildren.


    Pei Jing hurried to the corner of the outer wall, carried the jujube tree that was a head taller than him inside, and went to the utility room to find a saw.


    The apricot tree in the backyard was as thick as an adult''s thigh, and very tall, full ofrge fruit, the branches drooping from the weight.


    The sound of sawing wood rang out. Not long after, the apricot tree was sawed through.


    Sister Zhang heard the sound and ran to the backyard. She looked at the scene heartachingly, "Oh my, why did you saw down this tree? It bore so much fruit this year."


    In previous years when it bore fruit, Old Pei would also let Pei Jing bring some back, so Sister Zhang was quite fond of this tree too.


    Zhixia exined at the side, "Sister Zhang, he wants to saw down the apricot tree to nt a jujube tree, so next year we can eat jujubes."


    "You really know how to think, what a pity this is." Even if she felt heartachy, this wasn''t her own, so Sister Zhang couldn''t do anything.


    And it would be two years before the new fruit tree bore any fruit.


    Just as she thought this, she turned her head and saw the jujube tree by the wall. Although it wasn''t very tall, its branches were thick, simrly covered in fingernail-sized fruits, clusters close together, which looked very pleasing.


    Seeing this, her heart ached even more. "Where did you get this jujube tree? It''s borne so much fruit. Digging it up and renting it like this, these jujubes might all fall off!"


    This was truly too much of a waste. If her own children were this wasteful, she would''ve given them a beating already.


    "It''s not urgent that we eat them this year anyway. First nt it to help it adapt. Sister Zhang, I know you feel heartachy about the apricots, but after this jujube tree bears fruit, I''ll let you try them first," Pei Jing said as he continued digging the hole without stopping.


    "I''ll remember what you just said!" Sister Zhang couldn''t bear to keep watching, so she just went to the front yard.


    After he finished digging the hole and nting the jujube tree, only one or two hours had passed.


    Pei Jing was drenched in sweat, so he went to take a cold shower and returned to the room.


    The little ones could all sit already. With three children, it was difficult to take care of them, but also not that difficult.


    When they cried, they cried together, but there weren''t enough hands tofort them all.


    And now, they were all awake sitting on the bed, blocked by the nket. You poke me a bit, I poke you a bit,ughing like a pair of fools, not noisy at all.


    Even if they fell over on the bed, they would roll over to find the other one themselves. Only very rarely would they cry.


    Pei Jing wanted to y with them, but found they didn''t recognize him at all and wouldn''t even let him hold them, which made him feel somewhat disappointed inside.


    Zhi Xia hugged him from behind, "Will it always be so busy in the future?" Too busy that there was no time to be together with them in the same space.


    Pei Jing grasped her fair and delicate fingers. "I''ve been busy recently establishing training grounds and preparing training ns, so it''s been so busy. After the troops gradually take shape and enter normal operations, it will loosen up a bit. Then there will also be time to apany you and the kids."


    In working this hard, apart from his own reasons, it was also to reunite with her.


    The twins were already three years old. It would be time for them to start school soon. Compared to here, the education there was definitely better. He didn''t want to separate from them or dy the children''s education.


    An Zhiqing didn''t have his good fortune.


    Wen Qing would start elementary school this year, but Liu Ling was still unwilling to follow the military, which meant he would inevitably miss his children growing up.


    And there was already one Pei Jing selected on that side''s troops. Even if he worked hard, there couldn''t be another instructor, and as an ordinary special operations troop member, his age already exceeded the limit by a lot.


    Pei Jing hugged Zhi Xia tightly, unwilling to let go for a long time.


    The gentle kisses lingered on her lips, cheeks...


    But he didn''t dare make any other moves.


    He was afraid doing too much would inadvertently lead to the opposite oue of the child born not being the one he desired.


    Although they would still be his own biological children, when one had fixations in their heart, there would still inevitably be differences.


    Zhi Xia was also reluctant to part with him, cuddling peacefully in his embrace, enjoying this quiet moment.


    But beautiful times always passed swiftly.


    Seeing the sky outside, Zhi Xia could only urge him, "You should leave quickly and not dy it further. If you wait any longer it''ll be dark, and the mountain roads outside the city are difficult to traverse. Best to leave while you can still see the path."


    Pei Jing didn''t reply. He gripped her tightly against his chest, and his previously gentle touches suddenly intensified.


    Reluctantly letting her go, he stood up. He went outside and picked up his still somewhat damp military uniform that had just been washed not long ago. "Then I''ll get going. You...take good care of the kids."


    Zhi Xia nodded and rushed up to kiss the corner of his mouth again. "And you take good care of yourself."


    The roar of the car engine sounded. Watching as he slowly drove out of the front gate until disappearing from sight shortly after.


    Zhi Xia suppressed the feeling of loss inside. Just as she wanted to turn around and head back in, she saw Second Brother riding a bicycle over from the distance.


    "Second brother..." Zhi Xia waved at him hurriedly.


    An Zhiren''s sweat slid down his handsome face. His hair beside his ears was also a bit damp, but his handsome face was full of joy. "Little sister, I have a good news to tell you. Your second sister-inw is pregnant. I''m going to be a dad!"


    He hade over specially at this time to report the happy news to Grandpa and Grandma.


    "Really? Congrattions, then you have to be more careful from now on and take good care of second sister-inw." Zhi Xia was also happy for him.


    An Zhiren nodded. "I''m going to let Grandpa and Grandma know first. Are youing?"


    "Those three little ones are still inside. I can''t go. You hurry up and go. I still have to go back in and keep an eye on them, or else they might flip off the bed without anyone knowing."


    Night was falling. Old Pei brought the dragon and phoenix twins back home.


    Old An still wouldn''t admit to calling him over to y chess and asked the child. The child said Pei Jing told him to, which made Old Pei feel strange.


    But the two old men yed chess for an afternoon anyway. They often got together to y chess, drink tea, and chat about their children and grandchildren, so they didn''t have much else to do.


    Plus Pei JianGuo had brought his partner over today, so there was even more to talk about.


    Only after returning home, his eyes nced towards the roof of the backyard. He felt vaguely like something was missing.


    But he couldn''t quite recall what exactly was missing.

 Chapter 264: Be Taken Aback

    <h4>Chapter 264</h4>


    Everyone knew that Old Pei did not agree with Pei Jing chopping down the apricot tree to nt jujube trees, and he himself did not realize it. Xia and Sister Zhang would not b about it either.


    After dinner, as usual, Old Pei went for a stroll around the backyard, only to suddenly discover that the apricot tree in the backyard had been chopped down, leaving only arge tree stump there.


    Not far from the stump was a newly nted jujube tree. Although not big, it was full of fruit.


    Old Pei''s eyes widened instantly.


    In that instant, it seemed he understood why Older An said he didn''t ask him to go y chess, and why the dragon and phoenix twins also told him it was Dad who said so.


    This was clearly to get him out of the way so they could make a move on his apricot tree.


    Old Pei, ring with eyes wide, went back to the front yard and asked Xia, "Was it Pei Jing''s doing with the tree in the back?"


    In fact, it was not a big deal to chop down a tree. It was just that it was full of fruit before being chopped down, so it felt a bit of a waste not to agree to it being chopped down.


    He didn''t expect that this kid didn''t need his attention when he was little, yet now 30 years old, he suddenly became mischievous, which made Old Pei feel strange.


    Since Old Pei had discovered it, Xia could only exin with a smile, "Dad, don''t be angry. It was because the child wanted to eat jujubes that he decided to nt the jujube tree."


    It was for his grandson who wanted to eat them. Only then did Old Pei understand.


    Anyway, at his old age, it didn''t matter what he ate. Since the child wanted to eat them, Pei Jing must have been catering to the child.


    It was just that it was a pity for that tree full of fruit.


    Although the jujube tree was not big, it seemed to be very productive with a bunch of fruit hanging on it. He wondered if it could survive.


    Old Pei decided to water the jujube tree more in the future and take better care of it. Maybe with improved nutrition, the fruit would not fall off.


    Sure enough, the jujubes on that tree really survived and grew vigorously, muchrger than ordinary jujubes.


    It was summer vacation again. An ZhiXian specially took leave to send Liu Ling and Wen Qing to visit An Zhiqing.


    One might also say they were being overcautious.


    After all, this era was unstable to begin with. On trains there were swindlers, thieves, human traffickers - none of them had the word "bad guy" written on their face. If they were unlucky enough to encounter a train robber, there was no preventing disaster. So no one felt reassured about Liu Ling taking the child on such a long journey alone. Every time, An Zhiren would go along to send them off.


    However, Zheng Suchun was pregnant this time, so An Zhiren stayed home with her and An ZhiXian took leave instead.


    On a summer day filled with the sound of cicadas, the twins ran out with Big Yellow to catch crickets. Perhaps due to the heat, Yuan Bao didn''t feel like going out to run around much.


    Wanqing asked Xia to prepare a small basket for her and made a nest for Yuan Bao in the basket just right for carrying her out to y.


    The fluffy cutie was always popr. Often a group of children woulde to the house to see Yuan Bao.


    Half a month after Pei Jing left, Xia had already tested herself with test strips, and the second line was very faint, so she was not sure if she was pregnant or not.


    With her previous children, it was always when she and Pei Jing agreed they wanted another one, and unexpectedly they always had multiples - otherwise they wouldn''t have had so many.


    Truly as Wang Yue had said, it was like giving birth to piglets.


    After having triplets, they had already agreed not to want any more children.


    But this time was different. This was a child they had been hoping to conceive again.


    Hearing about Pei Jing''s experiences from his past life was like listening to a story, but as his biological parents, whether intentionally or not, they undoubtedly owed this child a lot, letting his childhood be filled with painful experiences.


    This lifetime, he would be born out of their hope, grow up healthy and happy, giving him a chance toe again and giving them a chance to make up for things as parents.


    All parents look forward to their child bing more sensible, but Xia hoped that in this life he wouldn''t need to be so sensible.


    With the love and care of his parents and older siblings, she only hoped he could follow his heart and have a safe and smooth life.


    After another half month, Xia tested herself again. This time the two lines on the test strips were very obvious and she finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Pei Jing had also calcted the timing and on this evening came into the space domain.


    Ever since the weather had turned hot, Xia would rest with the children inside the space. After all, with the door closed, no one outside could see what was inside.


    By now it was alreadyte into the night. She and several children were all asleep when she suddenly felt someone intrude into the space domain. Only then did she open her eyes.


    The door was just pushed open and Pei Jing came in from outside.


    Their eyes met. The next moment she was lifted off the bed into his arms and he turned to go outside.


    Lyingzily in his embrace on the soft sofa, the two snuggled against each other.


    "How is it? Are you pregnant?" Pei Jing''s big hand roamed her belly as his warm voice was full of anticipation.


    "I''m pregnant. I just tested today at noon. I thought to tell Dad and the others in a few days - otherwise with it being so soon, it would be too obvious." Xia finished speaking and looked at him usingly, "If you didn''te to ask if I was pregnant, would you even havee in? Were you about to forget me and the kids?"


    "What are you talking about?" Pei Jing looked at her disapprovingly. "Indeed I''ve been very busy this time period, Xia. It''s hard on you taking care of the kids alone. I promise you that once the military affairs get on track, I will make time to be with you all."


    Xia wasn''t actually resenting him, just saying it casually. "Alright, I''ll be waiting then."


    Another half month passed before Xia informed Old Pei and the others that she was pregnant again.


    At that time the old gentleman and olddy were also present. The olddy didn''t hold back and sprayed her mouthful of tea all over the table. They were all looking at Xia in disbelief.


    They knew Pei Jing hade back that day, but getting pregnant again from just that one time - it was just too easy!


    And the triplets were only 7 months old and still couldn''t walk at all.


    Xia herself also felt rather embarrassed, but she had gotten pregnant counting the timing and goingter she wouldn''t know if it might still be the original child.


    Old Pei could only be happy that it was at least conceived from his own family''s seed. If he dared reveal any unwillingness, Older An could fight it out with him.


    It was only when Xia and the children were not around that Older An still erupted. "Surname Pei, can you control your son? Xia had just given birth to triplets after New Year''s, her health hasn''t recovered yet, and now she''s pregnant again. Can her body handle it?"


    Previously seeing Pei Jing as steady and self-controlled, he liked him more and more, but now, how could he be so annoying!


    Old Pei could only force a smile and curse Pei Jing in his heart behind closed doors.


    When Wang Yue heard from Pei Jianguo that Xia was pregnant again, she truly wanted to flip the table in anger.


    "Those three can''t even walk yet, and now pregnant again - utterly shameless, bah! Just a slut who can''t live without a man, no fear of ridicule."


    Pei Jianguo heard it from grandfather in the first ce. He only casually mentioned it aftering back, but didn''t expect Wang Yue to still harbor such deep resentment even after their divorce.


    "Mom, Auntie and Uncle didn''t offend you. Besides, it''s their own business if they want to have kids or not. It has nothing to do with us, so why criticize them that way?" Previously he also looked down on Xia quite a bit, but after getting to know Mo Mo, she persuaded him to care more about grandfather and get on better terms with second uncle''s and little uncle''s families. After all they were still rtives and connected by blood and bones.


    He felt she made a lot of sense.


    Unlike Wang Yue, Wang Yue only wanted him to be close with her. She was always calcting against other family members.


    Whereas Mo Mo''s thoughts cing greater emphasis on familial bonds was exactly what he identified with.

 Chapter 265: Obtaining a License Secretly

    <h4>Chapter 265</h4>


    Wang Yue had never bowed to anyone in her life. Naturally, she would not be persuaded by just a few words from her own son either. "What''s wrong with me saying a couple of words to her? Pei JianGuo, don''t forget that I''m your mother. Your father insisted on divorcing me because he thought I was scheming, but wasn''t I scheming for your sake? If only you could have achieved something, I wouldn''t keep thinking about the bit of money in the old man''s hands. And you, now that you''re all grown up with a mind of your own..."


    Pei JianGuo felt extremely annoyed, but still sat there patiently and listened to her finish before getting up to leave.


    "Where are you going?" Wang Yue asked angrily.


    "Out for a walk," he said. He wanted to go find Guo Momo. Although they had gotten past the hurdle posed by his grandfather, Wang Yue still did not agree. And the neighborhoodmittee on Guo Momo''s side was urging them impatiently. Pei JianGuo had been exceptionally stressed these past few days.


    "Are you going to see that vixen again? I forbid it!" Wang Yue went forward to grab Pei JianGuo. "I''ve already talked it over with your Aunt Wang. She has a niece who''s very pretty andes from an official''s family. She''d be ten thousand times better than that Guo Momo. Take a day off tomorrow and go to your Aunt Wang''s ce at noon to take a look. You''re not young anymore either. If you find her suitable, hurry up and settle down. Then I can hold my grandchild early..."


    Rather than let An ZhiXia be the only one giving birth and stealing all the limelight.


    "I''m not going. I only want Momo. Mom, if you don''t agree to me marrying Momo, I won''t get married for the rest of my life," said Pei JianGuo.


    "Don''t even think about it! Pei JianGuo, what''s so good about that vixen Guo Momo? She''s not even that pretty, and she doesn''t even have a job. And there''s a whole pile of stuff going on in her family. Are you trying to find a wife or lift someone out of poverty?"


    Wang Yue cursed and swore. She and her son had fought frequently these past few days because of his desire to marry Guo Momo. This only made Wang Yue more determined that she absolutely could not let this Guo Momo into her house.


    Her good son used to be so obedient. But ever since getting to know Guo Momo, it was as if he had be bewitched. Now he even threatened her! How could she tolerate this?


    Pei JianGuo couldn''t persuade Wang Yue. He had really tried his best. But if Wang Yue''s mindset could be changed that easily, she and Pei Yong wouldn''t have ended up in their current situation.


    With Wang Yue unwilling topromise and the neighborhoodmittee on Guo Momo''s side urging them impatiently, they really had no other choice.


    Pei JianGuo had liked Gao Meiyun before, although everyone else said she wasn''t good. But she had been gentle and affectionate towards him.


    It was just that she didn''t like him back. And because of family reasons, Pei JianGuo only wanted to find someone who reciprocated his feelings. So he wouldn''t force someone who didn''t like him.


    After Gao Meiyun died, he had also been in pain for a period of time. He thought he would never fall in love with someone else again in his life.


    Not until he met Guo Momo.


    That bump at the street corner was the beginning of their destiny.


    Living under Wang Yue''s oppression for a long time, Pei JianGuo looked cheerful and optimistic on the outside but was actually extremely insecure inside.


    Guo Momo''s family practiced son preference and daughter discrimination. Her father also had the habit of domestic violence. She had also lived under long-term repression from her parents and older brother. The two could be said to share the same plight and sympathize with each other, allowing them to better understand one another.


    Although her rounded little face was not very pretty, her smile was quite endearing. She also had an adorable and generous personality. But Pei JianGuo realized his feelings were different when she talked about her family affairs and encouraged him not to distance himself from Old Pei and the others just because of what Wang Yue said.


    Pei JianGuo also felt that his grandfather was not as dismissive of him as his mother imed, even if that were truly so. Besides, he was already grown up. Did he still have topete for his grandfather''s affection with his newborn cousin?


    He didn''t want to be estranged from his rtives either. But Wang Yue always said bad things about his grandfather and his younger uncle, calling his second uncle a turncoat, and clinging onto his younger uncle now that he had a son...


    Over time, although he didn''t have strong opinions of his own, Pei JianGuo inevitably felt some wavering in his heart. Yet he also felt that such thoughts were wrong, which made him feel very conflicted.


    It wasn''t until getting to know Guo Momo that she was always able to understand him, agree with him, and encourage him, making him feel that he actually wasn''t so pathetic.


    Gradually, he felt that this girl was quite good. She was cheerful and passionate, and understood him. If he could marry her and bring her home, she definitely wouldn''t just nag and scheme like his mother in the future.


    When An ZhiXia heard Pei JianGuo''s voice outside, she saw him walk in with Guo Momo.


    "Sis-inw, we''vee to see grandpa," said Pei JianGuo. His current state was like when An ZhiXia first returned and saw him - gentle and refined, like the boy next door, and not the caustic gloominess after Gao Meiyun''s death.


    That Guo Momo could make him be like this, based on this alone, he had burned tall incense.


    "Your grandpa''s in the backyard right now. Go on," An ZhiXia also smiled and greeted Guo Momo.


    The path in the yard was very smooth. With the cool evening air, An ZhiXia spread out a mat in the yard and brought out her triplets to y.


    Sister Zhang was nearby plucking green beans, saying she would go ask Pei JianGuo and the others if they wanted to stay for dinnerter. The answer she got back was yes.


    Fortunately there were plenty of vegetables nted in the backyard. So she went to pick some more.


    Pei JianGuo carried a watermelon in from the backyard. Old Pei had nted two vines right next to the wall. The vines happened to cover the area where the body was buried.


    But it wasn''t fully ripe when cut open, though the pink flesh could still be eaten.


    Guo Momo brought a piece over to An ZhiXia. "Grandpa said they''re not fully ripe yet. He couldn''t resist his craving. What a waste. If only they could grow for two more days."


    "It''s fine. When they getpletely ripe, there won''t be much water content left. There are quite a few melons on those two vines. When they''re ripe in a couple days, let JianGuo bring you back here to pick them," said An ZhiXia with a smile as she epted it. Seeing her eat the melon, the triplets also wanted some but she kept it away from them.


    "But wouldn''t that be too bad? Grandpa worked hard to grow them," said Guo Momo. It wasn''t that she was afraid Old Pei would begrudge them. After all, Pei JianGuo was his beloved grandson.


    But Old Pei lived with the third branch of the family. She was afraid An ZhiXia would feel ufortable if she took them.


    "The old man worked hard to grow them and runs back and forth to the backyard several times a day. Isn''t it for his grandkids and their wives to eat?" Of course An ZhiXia understood her thoughts. There weren''t many families in the city who lived in houses with courtyards. To be able to eat free watermelon in the summer without having to pay for it wasn''t easy. Every family that bought some would hide it away and eat it secretly.


    She definitely didn''t mind. Many of the ripe fruits in her storage space had already been fed to the chickens and ducks. She wouldn''t be so stingy over a couple melons.


    Moreover, Guo Momo was quite sensible and tactful. If she and Pei JianGuo really ended up together, as long as Old Pei lived, they would inevitably have to interact with him often. It would be best for everyone to get along well without arguing.


    Guo Momo blushed slightly at An ZhiXia words, then smiled wryly.


    An ZhiXia saw it but didn''t pry by asking.


    She could guess there must be opposition from Wang Yue towards their marriage. Even if she asked, she wouldn''t be able to interfere.


    Old Pei also came over from the backyard. His hands were still muddy. After washing them clean, the filial Pei JianGuo handed him a slice of watermelon.


    But before he could eat it, Pei Jian Guo spoke: "Grandpa, Momo and I got our marriage certificate today. Mom doesn''t agree to me marrying Momo, but there''s urgent pressure on Momo''s side. It''s either get married or get a job, otherwise she''d have to be sent down to the countryside. We really had no choice but to secretly get the certificate."


    Although getting the certificate required certification from the neighborhoodmittee, under normal procedures it would be impossible to hide it from Wang Yue. But Pei JianGuo worked in the government. Over the past few years he had gotten to know some people who could help bend the rules.

 Chapter 266: Extreme, No way.

    <h4>Chapter 266</h4>


    Old Pei''s outstretched hand stopped, and the watermelon almost fell to the ground. The smile on his face was also gone, reced with aplicated expression.


    He looked at Pei JianGuo, sighed helplessly, and walked over here.


    Guo Momo was also nervous. Her eyes were red and she didn''t dare look at Old Pei. "Grandpa, I''m sorry. me me. I was reluctant to separate from JianGuo, so I asked him to marry me. I''m really sorry."


    Pei JianGuo blocked Guo Momo. "This has nothing to do with Momo. My mom has always disagreed and forced me to go on blind dates. I can endure everything else, but for my marriage, I only want to decide for myself and marry someone I like. "


    If he couldn''t even achieve this little bit, he really felt there was no meaning left in living in this world.


    Perhaps Guo Momo wasn''t the most outstanding, but he felt at ease andfortable with her.


    Old Pei red at Pei JianGuo. To Guo Momo he said, "Child, I''m not ming you. I''m afraid you''ll be wronged. This brat JianGuo was spoiled by us since he was little and he does things recklessly too."


    After speaking, he looked at Pei JianGuo again. "Even though your parents divorced, you''re still a Pei family child. Your mother has the right to speak about your marriage. But your father and I aren''t dead yet either. You''re saying, my child, how could you choose such an extreme method? Like this, how will Momo get along with your mother in the future? She''s a girl. What will outsiders think of her?"


    Based on his understanding of Wang Yue, he knew that with Pei JianGuo and Guo Momo daring to get a marriage certificate behind her back, she would surely be more extremeter on.


    They still lived together. JianGuo could escape to work, but what could a girl like Momo do?


    Pei JianGuo didn''t dare speak with his head lowered.


    At the time, he just acted on impulse without thinking it through so much.


    Now after hearing Old Pei say this, he suddenly felt that he had indeed only considered things from his own standpoint, ignoring Guo Momo''s situation.


    "Momo, do your parents know yet?" Old Pei knew this question was redundant.


    Wang Yue had always disagreed. It was unlikely the parents on both sides had even met, much less let their daughter secretly get a marriage certificate with a man in any normal family?


    Even if the Guo family valued boys over girls and didn''t care about Guo Momo, they still wouldn''t neglect to negotiate a bride price.


    "They don''t know yet. I...I didn''t dare say anything." Guo Momo''s eyes were red, but she understood in her heart that the main issue was still Wang Yue.


    With Pei JianGuo''s conditions, it was unlikely his family would disagree, but Wang Yue had found fault with her twice with belittling words, looking down on her very much, and it was impossible for her to sit down peacefully with the elders to discuss their marriage.


    Old Pei was silent for a long time before speaking. "Have your fathere back for a bit. No matter what, marriage is a joyous asion in the end. I can''t manage things on your mother''s side, but you still have the Pei surname. As an old man I can intervene."


    Old Pei had them go to the living room and told Pei JianGuo to notify Pei Yong, also asking Guo Momo to go home and inform her parents to arrange for both families to meet and discuss the wedding.


    Although the matter was already decided, they still had to go through the proper steps. Things shouldn''t be done in an embarrassing manner.


    On her way out, Guo Momo''s heart was filled with trepidation.


    Pei JianGuo grasped her hand. "Momo, grandpa is right. This matter has wronged you. Trust me, I will treat you well in the future to make up for it."


    Guo Momo smiled with relief. "I don''t need you to make up to me, and I don''t feel wronged. But JianGuo, your mother still doesn''t know we got married. She will surely feel bad when she finds out. But that''s to be expected. No matter what, keeping it secret from her to get married was wrong of us. So when we get back, if your mother vents her anger at you, you must endure it and not argue with her. Wait until she calms down, then we can coax her well. Your mother dotes on you so much. As long as we persevere, I believe she will ept me sooner orter."


    "Mm," Pei JianGuo nodded heavily.


    But reality was never as idealistic as nned.


    As soon as he told Wang Yue that he and Guo Momo got a marriage certificate, Wang Yue spewed a stream of verbal abuse that shamed even Pei JianGuo.


    Seeing Wang Yue remain agitated no matter what he said, he suddenly felt that if only he could also escape from here as well.


    "Pei JianGuo, where are you going? Are you going to sneak off again to find that vixen?"


    Pei JianGuo didn''t look back at all as he left, appearing extremely heartless. But if one could see his paleplexion, perhaps they would understand his current mood.


    The day Pei Yong returned and met with Guo Momo''s parents to settle the wedding arrangements.


    It was easy to resolve things with the Guo family. They just asked for a higher bride price. But Pei Yong wasn''t stupid either. Although the divorce was like starting anew penniless, over the years he had secretly saved up some private funds. Added to the money he received the past two months and no longer needing to hand all the money to Wang Yue since the children were grown, he could fill the bride price demanded by the Guos.


    The wedding was not borate. Pei Yong still didn''t want to see Wang Yue again, but had to meet with her for the sake of his son.


    But Wang Yue remained the same. Even at this point she still refused topromise.


    Left without a choice, they could only set up two tables in the old house. At least others would know Pei JianGuo had gotten a wife.


    But when they returned home that evening, Pei JianGuo discovered he was locked out, not to mention Guo Momo who came back with him.


    The newlywed couple looked at each other. Guo Momo felt very aggrieved too but she understood the helplessness and shame in Pei JianGuo''s eyes.


    At this moment, he was thinking that what his mother said was right after all. He really was ineffectual and ipetent.


    What man on his wedding night would be unable to return home with his wife in this entire Jincheng, forcing his wife to be homeless. He was likely the only one.


    "JianGuo, it''s alright. As long as we''re together, I''m not afraid without a ce to live. Worst case we can go rent a room. Grandpa gave me a red packet with twenty yuanst time. Second auntie and little auntie each gave six yuan. Dad gave fifty. Added up it''s not a small sum, enough for us to get by two months. You have a monthly sry. I can do odd jobs. As long as our hearts are united, I believe no matter what, we can make it through." Guo Momo hugged Pei JianGuo tightly, snuggling into his embracepletely.


    Pei JianGuo looked back once more at the door of his home but he still couldn''t go back in.


    It was just as well. He had thought to wait until his mother got over her anger and Momo would unavoidably suffer mistreatment for a period.


    Now she didn''t want them.


    Pei JianGuo secretly wiped his moist eyes. Lowering his head, he could only see the top of Guo Momo''s head.


    It wasn''t as easy as they imagined to go rent a house. Housing was scarce now. Many families didn''t even have enough housing for themselves, with multiple generations squeezing together in one house.


    He knew clearly in his heart that Guo Momo was only able to say those words perhaps because she saw his embarrassment and wanted tofort him, or perhaps she really just didn''t understand at all.


    Inside the house, Pei Shuangshuang had crouched at the door crack watching for a long time as Pei JianGuo left hand-in-hand with Guo Momo until their backs disappeared. She hurried to Wang Yue, "Mom, isn''t this bad of us? What if we drive brotherpletely to Guo Momo''s side?"


    Wang Yue angrily rolled her eyes. "Just you watch. I understand your brother too well. Don''t bother with him. His clothes and belongings are still inside! Tomorrow I''ll go change the lock. He''s depended on me to care for him all these years and has no clue what real life is like. He can''t even handle basic living necessities for two months before he''lle crawling back. As for Guo Momo, if she wants to be my daughter-inw, she won''t step foot through this door!"

 Chapter 267: Need Each Other

    <h4>Chapter 267</h4>


    She had raised her son with great difficulty, so how could he marry such a woman? Wouldn''t that be like someone else plucking the peach she had cultivated?


    No one had expected Wang Yue to handle things so ruthlessly.


    Things had reached such a point, yet she still refused to let people in the door.


    Wang Yue thought that Old Pei and Pei Yong were the same kind of people. Back when she had asked them to find a job for her child, they made things very difficult. And now the family was divided, Old Pei couldn''t possibly use Pei Jing''s house to provide shelter for Pei JianGuo.


    Moreover, even if he did take Pei JianGuo in, the one eating losses wouldn''t be them. As time went by, who knows whose house it might be in the future?


    Moonlight caressed the earth like water. Old Pei and Pei Yong were still in the living room.


    "JianGuo can no longer follow Wang Yue. This child still has a decent character. You''re his father. You can''t just watch your own son be ruined by his mother," said Old Pei as he looked at Pei Yong. This was the first time such a thought had urred to him.


    Both children were already grown up. During the divorce, they hadn''t clearly stated which parent the children should follow. After all, the house was given to Wang Yue, so it was only natural that the children would live there with Wang Yue.


    But this incident also made Pei Yong profoundly realize that his son now faced circumstances not much different from his own back then. If things continued this way, given JianGuo''s temperament, sooner orter he would be driven to make trouble.


    Pei Yong rarely smoked, but this time he couldn''t resist and lit a cigarette.


    He took a big puff and blew out smoke rings, then leaned back in his chair and thought for a long time before speaking: "With JianGuo''s seniority, dividing two houses shouldn''t be a problem, as long as the newlyweds aren''t too picky."


    As long as he got away from Wang Yue, the oppression would naturally be gone.


    It was just that although they were houses, there was still a big difference between one house and another.


    For example, Old Pei''s ce here versus where Wang Yue lived now - once Pei JianGuo''s house was divided off in the future there would be absolutely noparison.


    "They''ll definitely being over again tomorrow. We can ask the child''s opinion then," said Old Pei. Just in case JianGuo still wasn''t willing to separate from Wang Yue, then there would be no need for them to make extra ns.


    Old Pei had just finished speaking when they heard knocking soundsing from outside.


    It also surprised them that, after just mentioning arranging a house for Pei JianGuo, the next moment they were here, forced toe because they had no home to return to. After hearing Pei Yong''s idea, Pei JianGuo naturally wouldn''t object.


    Given his and Guo Momo''s current circumstances, it would be pretty good just to have a house to live in, even not a great one. It was still better than not even being able to rent a ce.


    The room Pei JianGuo had lived in before was now upied by the twins. Although during summertime they usually slept with Zhi Xia to help conceal their entries into the magical space, today was Pei JianGuo''s happy wedding day, so there was no rule saying he could mess around on the children''s bed.


    Luckily the weather was hot and there were reed mats spread on the bed. The congrattory gift of a thin nket that Zhi Xia had given them happened toe in handy.


    Zhi Xia had heard the movements during the night but hadn''te out the entire time.


    After daybreak, getting clothes on the few children took up quite a long time. She had just opened the door when she saw Guo Momo already out in the yard. "Auntie, you''re up? Have Chenyang and Wanqing gotten up yet? Should I go help them wash their faces?" said Guo Momo.


    "No need, they''re big now. I''ll get the water ready and they can wash up themselves," Zhi Xia said, caught off guard. It took her a moment to hurriedly respond.


    Yet in her heart, things didn''t feel right.


    What she had heardst night was real. It seemed that Guo Momo must have spent the night here. Would Old Pei really let them keep staying?


    If they were strangers it would be one thing, but this was Pei JianGuo - it just felt weird.


    "Then let me get some water ready for them," said Guo Momo, immediately turning to fetch water. This left Zhi Xia unable to refuse. She could only turn back to call the children: "Chenyang, Wanqing, hurry up ande brush your teeth and wash up."


    Behind her back, Pei JianGuo pulled Guo Momo aside and said tenderly, "Go easy with the helping out, okay? No need to ingratiate yourself like this."


    A newlywed couple was as sweet as honey. This was the time when their feelings were the best, so of course neither could bear to see the other suffer even the slightest grievance.


    "How is this considered ingratiating? I saw Uncle wasn''t home and figured Auntie had her hands full with several kids by herself. And now we''re staying in their home too. Helping out a bit is just being neighbourly. Plus I don''t have a job anyway, so what else would I be doing with my time?" said Guo Momo, smiling at Pei JianGuo. Her eyes brimmed with joy. "JianGuo, I like you and also want to have a good rtionship with your family members. I don''t feel even a tiny bit wronged - as long as I''m with you, I''m happy."


    Her coaxing made Pei JianGuough like a child who hadn''t fully grown up yet. "Alright, we''ll do as you say. Once we divide up the houses we can have our own home. I''ll try to find a way to get you a job then, and in the future we can live well together."


    "Sounds good. Just do your best without overexerting yourself. After all, jobs aren''t that easy to arrange. You''ve got no idea how much effort my parents went through trying to find my brother a job..." As Guo Momo spoke, once again she felt delighted by her choice.


    In this world, a love at first sight was rare. So-called love at first sight was either lust or some kind of scheme.


    Of course, Guo Momo was a little bit of both.


    Pei JianGuo was handsome and employed - maybe not outstanding in his own social circle but to Guo Momo, he was the salvation sent to her from heaven.


    Her parents favored sons over daughters. In the past few years, when it was time for her second eldest brother to be sent down to the countryside, her elder sister had gone in his ce. The few letters sent back said she couldn''t stand rural life and in the end, just to survive, could only marry and bear children there. It was unknown whether she would ever have the chance to return.


    Now it was Guo Momo''s turn. She didn''t want to go down to the countryside, nor did she want her parents selling her off to collect a bride price for her second brother.


    She had always lived clearly and sensibly. If life gave people choices, why shouldn''t she choose for herself? Before meeting Pei JianGuo, she had already made advances towards two rather decent men but neither looked upon her favorably and even actively avoided her.


    Pei JianGuo was different. He was good-looking and employed. Maybe nothing special in his circles but to Guo Momo, he was the redemption sent from heaven.


    During their conversations she realized that although this man and his family circumstances were pretty good, long-term oppression from his mother had made him extremely insecure inside.


    Guo Momo had long ago analyzed all kinds of men and discovered that everyone''s personality was closely tied to their experiences. Pei JianGuo had been denigrated by Wang Yue for so long that he hoped to gain others'' approval and had a bit of machismo inside, liking when people praised him and also longing to be needed by someone.


    Utilizing this point she had discovered, she quickly captured this man''s heart.


    Guo Momo did scheme a little but she wasn''t stupid, nor was she greedy like Wang Yue.


    She merely wanted to escape her original family and live a good life. To her, a partner who was employed and good-looking that could help her avoid being sent down to the countryside was already not easy to find. And on top of that his family seniors all had promising careers - father-inw and uncle were military officers, paternal grandfather was a veteran official, and they even had a maid to serve meals. At one point the family was able to give them their own ce to live. Why wouldn''t she try to get on their good side? She would have to be stupid to offend everyone like Wang Yue and gain nothing for herself.


    She also noticed that the children in auntie''s family never wore patched clothing. Several kids wore outfits for half a month with no repeats.


    Then she thought about her own two nephews back home whose clothing was all cast-offs found from rtives. The older one wore it until the younger could fit in it, and things were worn until they really couldn''t be worn before reluctantly giving them away. Their clothes were tattered and shabby, useless.


    What did this signify?


    It showed that this other family had abundant savings. If even a tiny bit slipped through their fingers it was still more than she could have ever hoped for in the past.


    Not to mention, once she had her own children, when she came to auntie''s house to find some small clothing for them, auntie surely wouldn''t refuse.


    In the past, Guo Momo had never had more than fifty cents in her hands at once. After getting to know Pei JianGuo, he took her to movies and bought her clothes. His family seniors even gave her a bride gift. Added up together it was several dozen yuan - and they didn''t look down on her for registering their marriage secretly against her own family''s wishes.


    Aside from the issues with Wang Yue and the Pei twins'' side, everything Pei JianGuo had brought her were things she hadn''t even dared dream about before.


    As for her, she just needed to dote on him, rely on him, make him feel needed. Satisfy his spiritual needs.

 Chapter 268: Famous

    <h4>Chapter 268</h4>


    Old Pei had prepared a sumptuous breakfast, but the household food expenses didn''t need to be paid by Xia. She had originally nned to give money for meals every month, but Old Pei didn''t allow her to pay, so she could only give up.


    Rtively speaking, she could save a little expense, but at ordinary times when others came over to eat, Xia also didn''t have the right to question. After all, the food was Old Pei��s.


    At the dining table, Old Pei said to Pei Jianguo and Guo Momo: ��Don��t worry about the house, since your dad has promised it, he will definitely handle it well.��


    Xia knew that this sentence was definitely meant for her to hear, telling her that Pei Jianguo and Guo Momo would not live here for too long.


    Hearing their conversation, Xia didn''t say much, but quietly served food for the two children.


    After breakfast, Pei Jianguo went to work, and Guo Momo stayed at home.


    Xia was making milk powder in the room. She didn''t need to hold it to feed them anymore. The three little ones were holding milk bottles and drinking by themselves.


    Guo Momo knocked on the door and came in. ��Auntie, my mom doesn''t want to ept me, and doesn''t let me and Jianguo into the house. We really had no other way, so we could onlye to grandfather for help. We originally thought that we could rent a house to live in. Dad was willing to help us find a house, which relieved our urgent need. We��ll have to bother you these days. I''m really sorry."


    "Since eldest brother has said so, he will definitely solve the housing issue for you. Just live here at ease these days. If you need anything, just tell your grandfather and don''t be polite." Xia could only say that. She just hoped that this Guo Momo would be sensible, and not be like Wang Yue.


    So far, the person seemed alright.


    "Well." Guo Momo actually felt that although this young aunt spoke gently and behaved well on the surface, she was quite aloof towards her and Jianguo.


    Jianguo had told her a few times that her mother-inw made things too ugly at the beginning, so it was understandable that she was cold.


    If it was someone petty, they probably wouldn''t even be willing to let them live here.


    On the surface, they came to rely on their grandfather, but when the family property was divided, this house had already been given to the third son, and it had nothing to do with others. She was quite clear about this in her heart.


    There were high school textbooks on the table. Guo Momo was naturally familiar with them, but was surprised. ��Are the textbooks auntie��s?��


    Xia''s background was not a secret, but didn''t people say that she hadn''t gone to school?


    Xia didn''t deny it. ��I usually study some things when I''m free.��


    ��Then auntie is really amazing. I couldn''t understand when the teacher taught me back when I was in school...��


    Guo Momo chatted for a while, then rushed to wash milk bottles for the triplets and helped look after the children. She also went to the backyard to help Old Pei water the vegetables. She was really a busy and hardworking person.


    Time passed by in such harmony.


    Pei Yong stayed at home for two days and left. No matter in any era, rtionships make things easy to handle.


    Pei Jianguo��s house was settled in about a week.


    It was two rooms in the staff building, ordinary without anything fancy. There wasn��t even a kitchen. Cooking could only be done by putting a coal stove and stove top at the door, like other neighboring families did.


    On the day they moved out, Guo Momo asked Old Pei if she could exchange some cloth tickets. That was when she found out that Wang Yue had directly changed the lock on the house. Over the past few days, Pei Jianguo didn��t even have a change of clothes.


    No wonder Guo Momo was always washing clothes at night while Pei Jianguo wore his clothes during the day and washed them at night for this whole week. Fortunately, the weather was good enough that they wouldn��t dry overnight.


    Guo Momo only had two sets of clothes made from cloth that Pei Jianguo had previously bought for her. Her old clothes were too shabby. It would have been surprising if her natal family didn��t beat her. Let alone preparing a dowry and such things for her.


    This was also something Wang Yue didn''t expect. She knew her own son but underestimated Guo Momo��s perseverance, and forcibly pushed Pei Jianguo towards Guo Momo.


    The sultry summer passed, and Liu Ling came back with her child too.


    An Zhiren and An ZhiXian specially came to pick her up along with the child, as a family reunion from the past.


    An ZhiAng was also there. The siblings met after a long time. When they met, they learned that Xia had just given birth to triplets and got pregnant again. He almost gritted his teeth out of anger.


    As expected, An ZhiAng was selected for the special forces team. It was said that on the first day he joined the team, he took down all the team members. Fortunately, Pei Jing had not been negligent during this period of time, otherwise if he lost as the instructor, it would have been a major loss of face.


    During dinner, they also learned a piece of news that Liu Ling finally got pregnant with her second child this year when Wen Qing turned 6 years old. She had just confirmed it not long ago.


    With this, some were happy while others were worried.


    Originally, when there was only one grandson in the family, An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan were looking forward to Liu Ling getting pregnant with a second child as soon as possible. Now that she was finally pregnant, they felt that the timing was too tight.


    With two daughters-inw and a daughter pregnant one after the other around the same time, and Xia having no mother-inw to take care here, she would probably be overwhelmed with everything when the time came.


    But the worries in her heart could not be seen by others, otherwise they might think she was unhappy that there were more children being added to the family.


    In the past, the few sons in the family were envied by everyone, but now, she really wanted to give this blessing away.


    She thought this way in her heart, but still had to do what needed to be done.


    Luckily she could still cope with things for now. She would wait until next year to start worrying about those matters.


    In March of the following year, Zheng Suchun gave birth to a daughter.


    Xia''s expected date of delivery was nearing, so she went to the hospital two days in advance.


    It was still the hospital near Peace Road , mainly because An ZhiXian was here which was more convenient.


    After the incident of switching babiesst year, the hospital changed the dean and went through major reforms internally. Now each department was much more rigorous than before.


    Liu Ling was still pregnant and working, so Zhou Nan had to take care of this one and that one.


    Xia could understand her hardship, so she asked Zhang sister-inw toe and take care of things. Old Pei could go next door to eat there. Besides, he was in good health and could cook by himself even if his skills were limited.


    Luckily it was only one day before Pei Jing came back.


    The two of them squeezed together in one bed in the silent night.


    Xia, who was sleeping, suddenly felt her stomach twitch. She opened her eyes in confusion, touched her stomach, and found no movement. Only then did she close her eyes to continue sleeping.


    Suddenly, the child in her belly seemed to tumble. Half of her belly sank down.


    Pei Jing seemed to have a sense for it and opened his eyes at that time.


    With experience already, neither of them panicked. Pei Jing quickly got up and opened the door to the delivery room.


    ��Nurse, my wife is about to give birth...��


    The pregnant women in this delivery room were people that the dean had specifically instructed to be taken special care of. No one dared to be negligent in the slightest.


    After all, herst delivery was sensational enough. Even though it had been a year, that incident was still circting in the hospital.

 Chapter 269: Are you not being one-sided

    <h4>Chapter 269</h4>


    The nurse came over to examine. Finding that the amniotic fluid had not ruptured yet, she let them wait a little longer.


    However, Xiao''s condition came on very quickly. No sooner had she finished speaking than Xiao''s water broke.


    Pei Jing followed her into the delivery room. This time, no one stopped him.


    Thanks to the baby swap incident, the parturient could now have someone apany them duringbor, but in order to prevent scaring anyone, there was a rule that they could only supervise from behind a curtain.


    In the dead of night, the cry of a baby was heard. Pei Jing was immersed in joy.


    This was the first time out of three births that he saw the baby first.


    He took his long-awaited son from the nurse and walked to Xiao in excitement and nervousness, only then remembering to ask, "Are you okay?"


    Xiao was covered in cold sweat, herplexion pale. She nodded slightly, "I''m fine, how''s the baby?"


    "Great. He''s a healthy child, even chubbier than his brothers and sisters when they were born," he said, kissing the baby''s small, smooth forehead.


    The baby, who had had his eyes closed, suddenly twisted his little head, as if trying to avoid it.


    Pei Jing smiled. He took the baby out and handed him to An ZhiXian, who was waiting outside, before going back in to pick up Xiao.


    In the hospital room, she fell into deep sleep, unaware that Pei Jing watched the baby intently for half the night without even blinking once.


    Just then, Pei Jing sensed a gazeing from the door that didn''t escape his alertness.


    He nced outside but couldn''t see clearly through the door.


    Looking back at Xiao lying in bed, he gently ced the baby next to her before turning to walk to the door.


    Opening it, there was no one outside. Only a nurse from the next room had just finished checking and was walking over.


    Pei Jing took two steps back to let the nurse in. Seeing that Xiao was asleep, she briefly checked and then left.


    Later that night, Pei Jing still felt that gaze lingering.


    Acting stealthily, he quietly moved to the door and suddenly threw it open, only to see Zhao Runze standing outside.


    Seemingly not expecting to be discovered, Zhao showed a brief moment of panic before regaining hisposure.


    "Comrade Zhao, what are you doing here?" Pei Jing asked first.


    "Comrade Pei, don''t get me wrong. I just...wanted to see her." Zhao Runze felt guilty. After all, Pei Jing had already made it clear enoughst time they met.


    But he couldn''t stand it. He was also somewhat unwilling.


    He would often linger around Pei''s house, but Xiao rarely went out. The few times she did, he wasn''t so lucky to run into her.


    But he remembered this time.


    He had only wanted to try his luck. Because this life was different, that child might not be born again. Yet, unexpectedly, she gave birth today after all.


    Except this time, the father of her child was someone else. The oue would surely be different as well, right?


    Whenever Zhao thought this, he felt more and more upset.


    He didn''t understand - if they were doomed to not be together in this life, what was the purpose of him having those memories?


    Was it only for him to regret and sufferter, to pay the price for his cowardice in his past life?


    Seeing Zhao Runze''s fleeing figure, Pei Jing frowned.


    Zhao Runze was not a bad person, just too repressed when it came to emotions, inevitably harboring delusions. Pei Jing was still a little worried.


    Turning back into the room, he saw that Xiao had already opened her eyes and was looking at the child lying beside her.


    "Who were you talking to?" Though the voices were right outside the door, it had been closed so she could only make out the background sounds and tones without understanding the words.


    "It was Zhao Runze," Pei Jing didn''t hide it from Xiao. He just asked her, "Did he ever bother you before?"


    Xiao shook her head without any hesitation. "No. After giving birth to the triplets, I rarely went out. I haven''t seen him at all."


    "Why don''t we go home then? Maybe the hospital leaves a dark impression. I keep feeling strangely uneasy." Before this child was born, listening to those stories, she didn''t feel anything in particr, let alone towards someone she''d only met a few times like Zhao Runze.


    Those memories he possessed, whether beautiful or painful, were only his alone. Xiao didn''t have the slightest feeling about them.


    "Let''s go back at dawn, it''s toote now to be convenient." Since Pei Jing knew she could recuperate on her own at home no slower than at the hospital, there was no real need to stay. Thus he agreed.


    Although still weak, she was no longer sleepy. She ate Xuejing fruit unabashedly and even asked Pei Jing, "Do you want some?"


    While the benefits were greater for women''s recuperation, men eating them could also relieve fatigue. With so much stocked up fast in her space now, it was at a point of eating whenever she wanted.


    Pei Jing did not stand on ceremony. One lying and one sitting, they munched on the fruit with crunching sounds.


    The wrapped up baby wriggled about, and Pei Jing reflexively reached out to touch him, but ended up with a palmful of ck poop!


    "Pfft..." Xiao couldn''t eat anymore and burst outughing at his exploded reaction.


    But too much joy inevitably brings sorrow. Pain assaulted her abdomen, forcing her to calm down.


    Pei Jing put down his half-eaten fruit and stood up with hand outstretched, "Pay attention to yourself. I��ll go wash my hands first, and get some water to change our son��s diaper."


    Seeing him so utterly undisturbed, Xiao curled her lips.


    When he came back during the baby''s diaper change, Xiao asked him, "You won''t y favorites in the future, right?"


    "y favorites?" Pei Jing was busy fawning over how cute he found the child in his arms, without any time to think.


    "Yes, no matter how many kids we have in the future, you can''t favor this little guy more just because he''s the youngest." Seeing that tendency already, Xiao decided to sound an rm for him in advance. "You can dote on the children, but I''m telling you - no favoritism. You have to treat them all equally, so they''ll grow up affectionate towards each other without any grievances."

 Chapter 270: The Great Contribution to be reviled in the Future

    <h4>Chapter 270</h4>


    Pei Jing continued to skillfully change the baby''s diaper, with a serious expression on his face. It seemed as though after careful consideration, he finally answered Zhi Xia''s question: "No, they are all our children. I will definitely treat them all equally. Also, Xiao Liuyi is different from Liu Ling''s son Wen Qing. Just like how we are different from them."


    He longed for Xiao Liuyi''s birth to fill the regrets in his memory, but he also clearly understood that Xiao Liuyi was not that child who had suffered many grievances and could only force himself to grow up. With different life experiences in this life, they would not be the same.


    So he had already decided that his Xiao Liuyi might not be as outstanding in the future, but simrly, he would also not have such a painful childhood again.


    "That''s good then," Zhi Xia felt relieved to hear that.


    "Right, are you nning to breastfeed Xiao Liuyi?" Although he felt that breast milk was indeed better, after all it was Zhi Xia who would be feeding the children while he would be away for ten days half a month and onlye back for two days. So they still had to respect her opinion.


    Zhi Xia nodded without hesitation, "I only have this one baby, no need to worry about not having enough milk. Let''s just breastfeed him."


    The husband and wife chatted for a while until dawn arrived.


    Zhou Nan came in from outside carrying a food jar, as she scooped porridge into bowls she asked Zhi Xia, "How are you feeling? Still ufortable?"


    "Much better now," Zhi Xia saw the dark circles under her eyes, clearly fromck of sleep. She said, "You shouldn''t only care about others, pay more attention to your own health. I''ve already discussed with Pei Jing, we''ll be able to go home by noon, so I can take care of myself."


    It was still early before the official work hours, they had to at least settle the hospitalization fees before leaving at noon.


    "Oh dear, mother knows," Zhou Nan nced back and saw Pei Jing had gone out to fetch water. Then she spoke without reservation, "Zhi Xia oh Zhi Xia, you''ve focused solely on giving birth these past few years, and now you finally have both son and daughter. I wasn''t persuading you against having kids, but giving birth really damages the body. You have to cherish yourself more. There are some things that only those who have experienced them understand. When you get older various illnesses and pains will all emerge, they are all minor problems caused by giving birth that even if you get them you can only endure on your own..."


    What Zhou Nan said was only a small part of it. It was probably the tradition of the older generation to first worry about their son and then their grandchildren, dissatisfied even with the slightest mistake.


    Her health had already not been good these past few years. She had watched her eldest son''s children for so many years, her second son''s family would definitely need her care during the postpartum month. She knew it in her heart even without her sons and daughters-inw telling her.


    It seemed An Jingzhi and her had discussed this matter many times. ording to his thinking, they should help if they could, and if they really couldn''t help, let them solve it themselves. After all, to solve most people''s problem of going to work, all units had nurseries that could uniformly take care of the children.


    But Zhou Nan was conflicted. She was idle at home, but instead let the child go to nursery school. She was also worried Liu Ling would have an opinion. Having helped take care of her children for a few years, she was afraid of being med in the end.


    It was really difficult, no matter what she did she felt inappropriate.


    Knowing these words came from concern, Zhi Xia would not be annoyed by them. "My third brother is a doctor, I''ll ask himter if there''s any good contraceptive," she said.


    "You don''t have to worry about this, your brother is still just a kid," Zhi Xia felt she really could not ask her own brother about such matters.


    Zhou Nan knew about condoms. She was just afraid the children would be reckless.


    In fact, even with her constitution, Zhi Xia had never had an ident during times they didn''t want children.


    Apart from the first time, her next two pregnancies were the result of mutual discussion between her and Pei Jing.


    Zhou Nan thought Zhi Xia was just shy. Her mouth didn''t say anything but her heart had its own ideas.


    Zhi Xia drank the porridge. One look and you could tell it was carefully brewed lean meat porridge.


    Zhou Nan was still thinking about Zheng Suchun''s side. After Pei Jing came back she had him eat up the rest of the porridge and dishes before washing up the bowls in preparation to leave.


    On her way out she went to An Zhi Xian''s side and told him Zhi Xia was preparing to be discharged, asking him to help pay attention.


    By noon when the hospital was clearly more crowded, Zhi Xia''s spirit was also much better.


    An Zhi Xian also came over to help. He carried the baby while Pei Jing carried Zhi Xia.


    It was convenient to have a car, though it easily attracted onlookers.


    Outside the car, An Zhi Xian looked disapprovingly at Pei Jing, "I''m warning you, you have to restrain yourself in the future. Giving birth is most damaging to the body. Zhi Xia''s body has given birth repeatedly these past few years, and she''s so much younger than you, you should cherish her more."


    In the face of his brother-inw''s rebuke, Pei Jing could only listen silently. It was because he was in the wrong after all.


    But he also felt very wronged. ording to normal pregnancies, three births would mean three children. It was just that the first two births were multiples, which made it seem like they had more children.


    Now that Xiao Liuyi had also been born to their delight, they didn''t n on having any more children in the future. This was the consensus Pei Jing and Zhi Xia had reached.


    However, he did have toin that those condoms really affected the experience.


    Pei Jing didn''t darein and silently got into the driver''s seat.


    An Zhi Xian also made a decision in his heart. Perhaps he could try approaching contraception from a pharmaceutical perspective.


    It just wouldn''t have much effect. After all, people valued having many children for prosperity. Estimated that even if he sessfully researched it, Pei Jing would be the only user.


    An Zhi Xian still didn''t know that in just a few years the family nning policy would soon sweep across the country. By then, he would have made a huge contribution for numerous women, though the amount of thanks he received for that contribution was not much - instead it caused him to be scolded more.

 Chapter 271: Did you Complain

    <h4>Chapter 271</h4>


    Zhi Xia held the child leaning on the car seat. As the car slowly moved, she seemed to see two familiar figures through the window.


    The man looked somewhat hunched. Although he was only in his forties, his hair was already half white.


    The woman he supported was gaunt and feeble. Her once gentle and beautiful face was so emaciated that her cheekbones protruded. The bright eyes also showed a sickly and turbid state.


    These two people were none other than Liang Zhiwei and Zhao Jingyun, who had not seen each other for a long time.


    If nothing unexpected happened, Zhao Jingyun''s life was nearing its end, while Liang Zhiwei had been paying the price for what he had done before, immersed in regret for the rest of his life.


    Illness and remorse would apany the rest of his life.


    They walked into the hospital. As the car moved, Zhi Xia''s line of sight was also blocked outside.


    Back home, Old Pei was still very surprised. "Why did youe back so soon? I was just discussing with your grandfather to go to the hospital to see you in a while."


    "It''s better to recuperate at home than in the hospital, and it''s more convenient." At home, Sister Zhang can help take care of her, and her grandparents next door are also close by in case anything happens.


    "That''s true." Old Pei waited for Pei Jing to take the child out before taking the child from his hands, affectionately calling the lovely grandchild.


    The triplets were one year and two months old, having just learned to walk steadily. Hearing the sound of the car, they came out of the room with their elder brother and sister, swaying like a group of ducklings.


    Guo Momo also came out of the living room with her bulging belly, smiling to reveal a mouthful of white teeth. "Little sister-inw, you''re back. I was just saying I wanted to go to the hospital with grandpa to see you, now I don''t have to run there, that saves us some trouble."


    She and Pei JianGuo also had their own family. She had tried to coax her father-inw to get her a job, whether it was a formal or temporary position, at least it would give her something to do and save some money.


    But Wang Yue still refused to ept her. She held the money firmly in her own hands. Pei Jianguo felt that he had be an adult after getting married, and he was also unwilling to ept handouts from his father-inw. The two of them had been able to survive until now thanks to the betrothal gifts she had secretly kept for herself, without letting her own family know.


    Although Pei JianGuo also had a sry, he had been spending money liberally. He didn''t bring anything with him from his previous home, so he had to buy new clothes and everything else from scratch. There was a big difference between one person spending money versus two people spending.


    Life was not easy for Guo Momo either.


    In winter, seeing her wearing thin clothes, Zhi Xia gave her two cotton-padded jackets.


    She had grown up wearing her siblings�� hand-me-downs. Compared to those, what Zhi Xia gave her were at least 80 percent new. There was even a new one that didn��t fit anymore because of her growing belly, so Zhi Xia just gave it to her. She was overjoyed.


    She didn��t know that Zhi Xia was afraid that she would feel embarrassed about wearing second-hand clothes. If not for that, there was no way she would go out of her way to do something like this a second time.


    Fortunately,pared to the past, Guo Momo felt that life now still held promise.


    "You''re also pregnant. It''s best not to run around. Just take care of yourself." Under the public gaze, Zhi Xia rejected Pei Jing''s attempt to carry her. She supported him carefully as they walked back into the room.


    The quilts on the bed were fluffy and still warm from the zing sun.


    Old Pei looked at Little Six for a while. Newborns were the cutest. But the other slightly older children were making too much noise. Afraid it would disturb Zhi Xia��s rest, he reluctantly put Little Six down to lead the other mischievous grandchildren out.


    Now that the children could walk, it did have its advantages. Whenever Old Pei had nothing to do, he enjoyed showing off his grandchildren to others. He would walk in front with a line of ducklings behind him, proudly soaking in the envious gazes of onlookers.


    Guo Momo came here very often, at least twice a week. Sometimes she would stay for dinner.


    Knowing Zhi Xia was always aloof with her, she also kept her distance and only asionally chatted casually. But she talked with Old Pei very frequently, doing even better than Zhi Xia in that regard.


    Seeing Old Pei take the children out, Guo Momo tactfully left so as not to intrude on the couple.


    Pei Jing''s brow furrowed slightly. ��Does shee here every day?�� Because the few times he came back, it seemed he had seen Guo Momo around.


    "Not every day. Shees about twice a week to apany my dad in conversation." Zhi Xia sighed helplessly. "I feel she''s also had it quite hard. Wang Yue still refuses to ept her. And now pregnant, your nephew doesn''t seem very considerate either."


    "What''s wrong with Pei Jianguo now?" He reflexively felt that Pei Jianguo must have done something again. After all, he had those memories for context.


    "I don''t pay attention to or deliberately understand their matters. But your nephew always dresses sharply whenever hees over. Wang Yue didn''t let him take anything away, so they could only buy everything new from scratch. That''s understandable. Butst winter, Guo Momo didn��t even have a thick piece of clothing. When it got cold, Dad gave her fabric tickets to buy cloth. I also gave her two cotton-padded jackets before she barely got by. Now almost five or six months pregnant, the clothes she''s wearing were made before she conceived. I estimate she won''t be able to wear them much longer."


    Pei Jing didn''t say anything more, but from his expression, it seemed he had taken this matter to heart.


    He also didn''t tell Zhi Xia that he immediately called Pei Yong afterwards.


    This was the first time Pei Yong looked for Wang Yue after the divorce. He blew up at them. Pei Jianguo didn''t get spared either.


    Perhaps because he was not close with his son, he seldom talked about anything. He would often ask if his son needed anything after the difficult marriage. But Pei Jianguo declined each time. Pei Yong thought he had matured and be sensible after getting married.


    But who knew that while Pei Jianguo didn''tck anything himself, he failed to see his wife''s plight.


    Moreover, Guo Momo had coerced him into marriage in the first ce. She was weak in front of him and didn''t dare make any requests. On the contrary, she made all kinds of excuses for him.


    After getting scolded over the phone, Pei Jianguo came home gloomily.


    Guo Momo had also returned from Old Pei��s ce, carrying a string of fried dough twists.


    Old Pei had bought them that afternoon when he took the children out. He deliberately set some aside for her.


    "You''re back from work? I went to grandpa''s today. My sister-inw gave birth to another son. The little guy looks pretty cute. Grandpa bought fried dough twists and told me to bring some back. I got held up a bit on the way and haven''t had the chance to make dinner yet. What do you want to eat?"


    Seeing her return happily, Pei Jianguo would normally share about his day. But after the scolding today, his face was not good.


    "Did youin to my dad?" Pei Jianguo thought, his father hadn''t been back in a while, how would he know about his matters? "Momo, if youck anything, just tell me. No need to look for my dad."

 Chapter 272: It鈥檚 time to lighten up.

    <h4>Chapter 272</h4>


    What he hated the most was this. In the past, Wang Yue would alwaysin about her difficult life and her father noting home in order to deduct money from Old Pei. To avoid trouble, Old Pei did not stint on making up for it.


    Guo Momo''s heart skipped a beat instantly, "I didn''t go looking for my dad. Besides, you and grandpa, uncle and aunt have been very good to me. Just like the fried dough sticks given to me today, I didn''t ask for them. It was grandpa feeling sorry for me being pregnant. I thought it was out of kindness of the elderly. How could I not ept it? If you feel I shouldn''t have taken them, then I won''t take them next time. Don''t be angry, okay? You''re scaring me when you''re like this..."


    Last year, she had mentioned not having enough warm clothes. But both of them were in need while there were only so many ration tickets. And he was unwilling to ept help from his elders, so he could only take care of himself first since he had to go to work.


    Old Pei JianGuo had this kind of personality - ipetent and suspicious. She just wanted him to ask grandpa to borrow some ration tickets. Even if he had to exchange them with other tickets, he would still be unhappy and retorted by questioning if she was bing greedy. This made her not dare to ask anymore.


    Fortunately aunt noticed her embarrassment and gave her two thick garments. Otherwise she wouldn''t know how to get through the winter.


    It was inevitable for both men and women to change before and after marriage.


    It was him who said he liked her before marriage and was generous with words and gentle in speech. Only then did she feel she struck gold and said yes. But after getting married, she realised he was selfish and ipetent.


    As for Guo Momo, before marriage she only wanted to change her circumstances through marriage. After marriage, she also wanted to live well with him and cared about him in every possible way.


    Even in this state now, she was thinking that the embarrassment was only temporary. Because both of them were essentially chased out by their families and had no savings. That was why lives were so difficult. In fact, apart from making clothes which required ration tickets, Old Pei JianGuo wouldn''t be stingy with what he had towards her.


    With his sry, if they persevered for two years and prepared all necessities, life would be better with the excess money saved up.


    That was why Guo Momo was willing to coax him.


    Old Pei JianGuo also realised his tone was too harsh. He settled his emotions and said, "Momo, I know you''ve been wronged these days. My sry isn''t low and is enough for our spending. The main issue is with the ration tickets which are too tight. I''m not ming you either. I just feel that given our circumstances, we should be more self-reliant. You wouldn''t want others to look down on us too, right? So there''s no need to ask others, don''t you think?"


    Guo Momo really didn''t understand what was he unhappy about. And weren''t her rtives his rtives too?


    He always acted as though he valued his family, but his actions clearly differentiated his so-called rtives.


    Guo Momo knew clearly no one loved her, otherwise she would''ve asked her family for help long ago.


    "I really didn''t say anything to my dad. Believe me, JianGuo. Besides, I can''t even contact my dad!" Guo Momo usually didn''t mindcking in food and clothing. After all, she had lived like this since young.


    But now she had a big belly, and was already feeling wronged. Yet he repeatedly suspected her over such minor matters and exaggerated them. Of course she would feel sad too, right?


    She started wondering if her initial choice was right, and that his contrasting attitude before and after marriage made her feel uneasy.


    Seeing her red-rimmed eyes, Old Pei JianGuo softened and coaxed her, "I''m not suspecting you. Since you say so, I believe you. I''m just very curious who knows about our family matters that could contact my father to gossip?"


    Guo Momo sat there silently. Fortunately she had already eaten a bowl of chicken soup stewed by Zhang''s wife at Old Pei''s ce beforeing home. So she wasn''t too hungry yet.


    Old Pei JianGuo waited for a while but she still didn''t speak. Seeing her less than happy expression, he quickly changed the subject, "It''s already dark out. Let''s not cook anymore. I''ll bring you out to eat something and supplement yours and our baby''s nutrients too."


    After all it was his fault to suspect her. Bringing her out for a good meal would help mend things, at least that was what Old Pei JianGuo thought.


    But unexpectedly, Guo Momo ced a hand on her belly, "My tummy suddenly twitched and feels a little ufortable now. I don''t feel like eating either. Otherwise you can fix something simple for yourself."


    "Why does your tummy feel ufortable? Do we need to see a doctor?" Only then did Old Pei JianGuo grow anxious.


    "I asked aunt. She said it''s normal as my belly grows bigger for the baby inside to move more, indicating that he''s strong and healthy." She simply did not feel like eating out. Anyway she wasn''t that hungry.


    He had a good sry but before marriage, she thought at the very least his individual ie was higher than her parents. It should be enough for the both of them to live on, at the very least. But she overlooked Old Pei JianGuo''s extravagance.


    Her family survived because everyone was frugal. They could go years without making new clothes, and meals were enough to not starve.


    But Old Pei JianGuo was used to hisfortable life and would go to the state-run restaurant every few days. At times it would be to apany her, and she got to eat well at least so she wasn''t as annoyed. But every month, there would be at least two times he went with his friends. Each time, it would cost at least three to five yuan. So with some calctions, his sry was far from enough.


    "As long as you''re feeling alright now." Old Pei JianGuo could finally breathe easy. After all it was his first child and he valued it greatly. "You don''t feel like eating out. Then nevermind. I''ll head out myself for something simple. Need me to buy something back for you?"


    How could he cook anything himself?


    Since he was little with Zhang''s wife and mother around, the only thing he helped out with was in the vegetable garden with grandpa''s instructions, and even then he often skipped helping out andzed around.


    "It''s sote already, it''s far to go out now. Don''t go. I''ll cook some glutinous rice balls for you, okay?" Guo Momo was speechless. She initially thought with his sry, if they saved a bit, they could at least save half of it each month. But reality gave her a harsh p instead.


    Far from saving anything, they would end up with negative savings if not for her persuasion.


    "But your tummy felt ufortable just now?" Old Pei JianGuo could never grasp the crucial point of problems.


    "I''m feeling better now. I don''t want you going out, I''d be scared home alone." Guo Momo knew he was easily swayed when coaxed.


    As expected, his face revealed a smile instantly, "Alright alright, then I won''t go out. I''ll stay home with you."


    Guo Momo took the chance to say, "JianGuo, I don''t oppose you not asking dad or grandpa for money. But we have to be frugal with our lives from now in order for it to work. See how my belly grows bigger by the day? Giving birth and raising our child would cost money too, it''s not the same as just us two.


    "You''re right, we have to be more frugal." The reasoning did make sense to him but he just couldn''t shake off bad habits. Nor keep it up for long.


    Hence, Guo Momo added, "Why not let me manage your sry then? The bit I have left won''tst buying groceries and whatnot daily. It''s inconvenient to always ask you for it."


    Old Pei JianGuo thought for a moment, "How about this - in future, I''ll give you half my sry. You know me being a man, asional socialising is hard to avoid. It won''t do to not have some money in hand."


    "Okay, whatever you say." Guo Momo rolled her eyes secretly. Who was it again who just agreed to be frugal?


    Half was still better than nothing.


    She really doubted herself now why she would find Old Pei JianGuo naive and easy to cheat before marriage.


    Indeed before marriage he was generous and still passable after. Just that his grasp on money was exceedingly firm.

 Chapter 273: Persuasion in Disguise

    <h4>Chapter 273</h4>


    In fact, when you think about it carefully, you can understand that all of Pei Yong''s sries over the years were taken by Wang Yue. Not to mention how difficult it was to ask for money every time, and when they divorced, he walked away empty-handed without getting a share of the newly divided property.


    Wang Yue had a whole family relying on her, so she could be unscrupulous. But Guo Momo didn''t, so Pei JianGuo was all talk on the surface but was actually quite afraid of living like his father.


    Guo Momo always thought she could easily control Pei JianGuo after marriage, but she didn''t know that Pei JianGuo also wanted to control her.


    He felt his parents'' marriage was aplete failure, and for his to seed, he had to get to the root of things.


    The money was earned by him, so it was only right for him to hold onto it. Only by having control over the finances could Guo Momo continue being so gentle and obedient.


    In fact, this line of thinking wasn''t wrong at all, because the reason Guo Momo married him was to live a good life.


    But Pei JianGuo was too much of a spendthrift, able to earn money but unable to hold onto it. What difference did that make from not earning at all?


    Guo Momo was heavily pregnant and worried about their future life and having no ce to go after the child was born.


    At daybreak, Pei JianGuo took Guo Momo to Pei Elder''s ce, where the people from the second branch of the family were also present.


    Because they still had to go to work, the appropriate time for Jian Guo and Momo''s family to visit was set in the early morning.


    The room was hot and lively, with only Guo Momo looking somewhat forced in her smile.


    Outside, Pei Jing and Pei JianGuo stood together. Pei Jing looked at Pei JianGuo''s clothes - they weren''t new, probably made justst year.


    When Guo Momo first entered, he had specifically looked her up and down. Her clothes didn''t seem particrly old either, probably also newly madest year. But with her bulging belly, the entire garment was stretched tightly across her body. She possibly felt it didn''t look very nice herself, which was why she wore a padded jacket on the outside.


    In March, the mornings and evenings were still a bit cold, so dressing like this didn''t seem inappropriate. But the buttons that wouldn''t close over her protruding belly were proof that their lives were indeed not easy.


    Pei Jing used to feel that Pei JianGuo was still like an immature child, overly protected by his family since young. At least he wasn''t bad natured, but now it seemed there wasn''t a single redeeming quality about him.


    "Uncle, is the Special Forces team with my father''s side?" Pei JianGuo looked at Pei Jing''s expression, still full of admiration.


    "No, the Special Forces team split off into an independent team," Pei Jing shook his head. "How''s your life after getting married? You''re about to be a father soon, you can''t keep being so childish anymore. You have to be a responsible man who loves and protects his wife and children. If you have any difficulties, speak up, don''t force yourself to endure it all alone, you understand?"


    "I understand. Moh Moh and I are very good, she''s not a greedy person either. Now that the housing issue is resolved, my sry is enough for our expenses, don''t worry Uncle, I will live properly." Pei JianGuo''s serious expression did seem very determined. If Pei Jing hadn''t heard about Guo Moh Moh''s situation from his wife Zhi Xia yesterday, he probably would have felt very reassured now.


    "It''s good that you think this way. Isn''t a man toiling outside in order to provide a better life for his wife and children? As long as you''re determined to live properly, we elders will feel at ease too. Also in terms of money, just barely having enough to spend is not okay. You''re about to have a child, you should save up an appropriate amount in preparation too. Save money when you should be saving money, don''t you know the old saying, have a rake outside to earn money, and a box at home to manage money. Not earning money is your problem, but earning money and not managing it properly is your wife''s problem. To live well, you both need to work hard together and discuss matters, understand?"


    After rushing back home yesterday evening feeling angry from making that call to his elder brother, when he talked it over with his wife Zhi Xia, Pei Jing realized his mistake.


    Pei JianGuo wasn''t someone who didn''t listen to advice, but someone who had always caused worry for two generations, with a whole slew of shorings. His biggest problem was easily shifting responsibility. Afterining, Pei JianGuo got scolded, but the one still feeling wronged and upset when going back would be Guo Moh Moh. This would easily lead to him trying to do good but achieving the opposite effect.


    Otherwise, following his previous approach, he would have beaten Pei JianGuo up long ago. Growing up, he was beaten all the way until adulthood. Back when they lived together, even Wang Yue couldn''t stop it, and Pei JianGuo was used to getting beaten too.


    Fortunately the two weren''t too far apart in age. When Pei JianGuo was little he followed behind Pei Jing all day long, otherwise with the useless things he did, Pei Jing wouldn''t have bothered with him at all. Causing worry at such a mature age was already veryme in itself.


    Luckily Pei Jing''s tone was quite good, making Pei JianGuo think his uncle cared about him. Happy to the point he couldn''t close his mouth, he responded faster than anyone with promises.


    Although Jiang Su didn''t get along with Wang Yue, she had always been quite caring towards the younger generation in the family. Moreover, Pei JianGuo grew up before her eyes as a child, calling her Auntie everyday. Naturally she also hoped for the best for them too.


    Noticing it the moment she entered the room, she only asked after going outside, "Moh Moh, your belly is quite big now. You have to wear looser clothes when pregnant, you can''t wear clothes this tight, it''s not good for the child either."


    After dividing up the family assets, there weren''t many chances left to see each other, so she could only see Guo Moh Moh asionally when at Pei Elder''s ce. Thus she didn''t notice Guo Moh Moh''s situation earlier.


    Hearing from Pei JianGuo that his mother-inw and Second Branch didn''t get along well, Guo Moh Moh also didn''t dare get too close in front of Jiang Su, even more afraid of revealing their difficulties and bing aughing stock. So she said, "Auntie, I''m anxious too. Look, I still have two to three months before giving birth. If I deliberately make looser clothes to wear after birthing, I won''t be able to wear them now, that would be such a waste too. So I thought I''d just make do with what I have."


    "You''re speaking as if two to three months is not a long time, not just a couple days. Still with a big belly, making do like this - how can your body feelfortable? The child in your belly can''t stand it either!" Jiang Su was not petty-minded, speaking straight out, "Go ask your aunt for two pieces of hers. We''re family, no need to feel embarrassed about wearing pre-worn hand-me-downs."


    Only after finishing speaking did she suddenly react and quietly asked Guo Moh Moh again, "Moh Moh, you don''t happen to not have any ration tickets right? Of course, what can you expect from a mother like yours. Even now when your belly is so big she still refuses to acknowledge you all. When you married Jian Guo, he didn''t even bring a set of clothes out with him. It''s understandable tock some documents. We didn''t hear you all mention it before either so we neglected this issue too. If you''re missing anything juste to Auntie, I''ll scrounge some tickets for you at my work unit."


    Both she and her husband had jobs. Her eldest daughter was in the army and youngest daughter also worked, so they didn''tck ration tickets at all.


    Yet Guo Moh Moh not onlycked tickets, she was short on money too! Although not to the extent of having none left like she told Pei JianGuo, but with no ieing in while being heavily pregnant, she didn''t dare spend the little money she still had.


    Luckily Pei JianGuo promised to split half his wages with her in the future. Her situation should improve a bit.


    This was the part that made Guo Moh Moh feel most aggrieved - the elders in the family could all perceive their plight and were willing to help out, yet Pei JianGuo himself just couldn''t get over that psychological barrier. It was as if epting others'' help was like epting charity.


    Yet the people helping them weren''t strangers, but their own elders in the family. What was there even to split hairs over?


    "Thank you Auntie, I''ll go borrow a piece from Auntter. Don''tugh if I say this, but I still have some money on hand that I have to save for when I give birth." She hadn''t wanted to bring it up, but she truly felt wronged inside.


    Upon hearing this, Jiang Su instantly understood. She patted Guo Moh Moh''s hand andughed, "Don''t worry, just let Grandpa pay for the birth expenses. Who allowed the child to be his precious great grandson, he''ll be happy even if he has to pay out money."


    She said this without any psychological burden at all. Grandpa received a pension every month. He was just an old man who had few personal needs to begin with. What was the point of keeping money rather than spending it on his grandchildren who were in need?


    Pei Sheng walked out from the living room to where the two women were and asked, "What are you twodies chatting so happily about?"


    Without hiding anything, Jiang Su intentionally said, "I was just telling her that once this child is born, our family''s Grandpa will be a great grandfather. We''ll be grandparents too. When the timees, the childbirth costs will have to be paid by Dad. Can''t let this cheapen him, the father."


    Pei Lao alsoughed out from the living room, looking at the harmonious atmosphere at home, nodded with satisfaction, and joked: "What Dream''s mom said makes sense, this grandpa definitely can''t get it for nothing. I''ll be happy no matter if it''s a boy or girl in the future when the money is given."


    Afraid that they would feel pressured, Pei Lao added another sentence.


    Pei JianGuo was unwilling to ept help from others, but the atmosphere was good right now. Although the child wasn''t born yet, it had already proven how wee it was, so he could only feel happy.


    He was just unwilling to ask for help, which didn''t mean he didn''t want what his elders gave at all.


    For example, if grandpa said he was having a hard time and wanted to subsidize him, he definitely wouldn''t ept it, but grandpa did this because he loved his great-grandchild, which made Pei JianGuo feel particrly different.

 Chapter 274: Somebody Came Looking for It

    <h4>Chapter 274</h4>


    Guo Momo was so happy that she couldn''t close her mouth. She admitted that she was greedy, but after living a hard life for so long, who wouldn''t be eager for money that burns the hand?


    What made Guo Momo not regret marrying Pei JianGuo the most was that he still had several sensible elders. If they were all like Mother-In-Law Wang Yue and Sister-In-Law Pei Shuangshuang, she was afraid she would want to run away with her belly now.


    Pei JianGuo had to hurry to work, but Guo Momo was in no hurry to leave. He just left first by himself.


    Jiang Su saw everyone was talking outside, so she took the opportunity to go into the room and exined the situation to Zhi Xia, "Zhi Xia, I just saw Momo''s clothes were too tight on her belly, so I said more than necessary that you could find her a loose piece of clothing to wear. Later if she brings it up to you, just find one for her."


    Zhi Xia smiled and said, "I won''t hide it from Sister-In-Law, after having these children in a row, I do have a few loose clothes left. I was afraid she would dislike them for being old so I didn''t dare to mention it. Since you said so, I��ll find a couple for herter."


    "Alright, although you are not very old, we are the elders. Seeing JianGuo has had a couple of tough years, we should help out if we can, to help him get through this period. After the child is born, won''t she have to call you Third Aunt?" Jiang Su did not like Wang Yue. She had always done foolish things. And now she was holding arge sum of money from the family split, but was unwilling to help her own son. Jiang Su didn''t know what Wang Yue was thinking.


    Jiang Su wanted to genuinely help, but after all he was not her son, and Pei JianGuo was sensitive. It would be difficult to help him and also give him a reason that he could ept.


    Just as Jiang Su said, they were elders after all. They couldn��t haggle with their juniors.


    If they really didn''t care at all, Guo Momo would look quite pitiful.


    She was not the kind of person who liked to take advantage of others. Hearing Zhi Xia agree, she held her hand and said, "I have some coffee there that Xiang Xiang brought back from her performance in Haichengst time. I tried it and, wow, the bitter taste almost made me vomit. But she insisted it was a good thing and spent a lot of foreign exchange coupons on it. She said I don��t know how to appreciate it. Next time Ie over I��ll bring you some to try the taste. I��m too old for this taste but maybe you young people will like it."


    Zhi Xia knew this was in exchange for the two pieces of clothing she had agreed to give. If it was a direct exchange, it would seem too impersonal.


    It had to be said that Jiang Su really was a good woman. Even though she and Wang Yue were at odds like that, she never med the children.


    "Then I won''t stand on ceremony with Sister-In-Law. Thanks to you I get to try what this exotic stuff actually tastes like.�� Of course Zhi Xia was unlikely to have never tried it before. She had tasted many vors, sweet, bitter, and everything in between. But others didn��t know that, so she still had to pretend she had never drunk it before and act very curious.


    "You��ll know when you actually try it." Her daughter drank it very elegantly. She definitely could not stand that taste.


    Pei Sheng and Jiang Su stayed for a while and then left too. Pei Jing was helping Sister Zhang cook red tea eggs in the kitchen. With an addition to the family, they had to give red tea eggs to neighbors and rtives nearby and also go report the good news to her maiden family. Anyway, it was very troublesome to handle this carefully.


    The families that lived nearby had alreadye over with things to see the child. It was really lively with peopleing in and out all day.


    Zhi Xia waited all day but didn��t hear Guo Momo mention the clothes. She had already promised Jiang Su so Zhi Xia thought Guo Momo was too shy to bring it up. She took the opportunity when Guo Momo came in to take the initiative and say, "This morning before your second aunt left, she told me to find two loose pieces of clothing for you to wear. I also sorted out the little baby''s clothes. Take a look and pick out a few good ones to take. Little kids are easy to wet their pants so more clothes can save you when there aren��t enough to change into.��


    Guo Momo instantly revealed a delighted expression but nced at Little Sixth who was still sleeping, and hesitantly asked, ��Does Little Sixth have enough to wear? Let him wear tight-fitting clothes first. There��s still two or three months before this one in my bellyes out.��


    Of course Guo Momo was happy that Zhi Xia was willing to give her clothes. She had originally thought that Grandpa said he would give them money to have the baby. And she had told Jiang Su that she still had some money so asking for more didn��t seem quite appropriate.


    Also, Jiang Su said she could help her exchange vouchers. Guo Momo didn��t want others to feel she was too greedy. But now that Zhi Xia took the initiative to speak, Guo Momo still wanted to save as much as possible.


    "Little Sixth definitely has enough clothes to wear. He has four older brothers and an older sister." Although it was said that children should wear hand-me-down clothes to press for good fortune, and some would even carefully borrow clothes from others to purposefully make them, Zhi Xia would certainly not let Little Sixth only wear old clothes.


    Besides, with the older children having gone through hand-me-downs, there really were a lot of old clothes. When Pei Mengsheng��s daughter was born, she had given her arge bag of them.


    "That��s too kind of you, little aunt. My maiden family can��t help much. For other children, their grandmas help make clothes when they��re born, and I can��t expect that either. Mother-in-Law is still unwilling to recognize me. It��s fortunate Grandpa and you have been helping me all along.�� After all, she was still a young girl, not even neen years old yet. No matter how mature, there were still times she felt tired.


    Plus being heavily pregnant without anyone around to rely on, this was when she needed the goodwill and help of others most.


    Zhi Xia had long prepared the clothes neatly ced at the end of the bed. She pointed with her hand so Guo Momo knew.


    With Zhi Xia there, she was too embarrassed to open them and look, lest others think she was picky.


    After returning home, she eagerly opened the package.


    There were tworge packages total. The top two were for her. She took them out andpared the size by holding them up to her body. With one look she could tell they were clothes specially made for pregnant women. Starting from below the chest they were wide and roomy. The pants at the waist were sewn with thin stretchy fabric that could loosely wrap over her belly without any tightness.


    Guo Momo hurriedly changed into them. No matter how she looked, she felt they were great and wearing them wasfortable.


    The package also contained two small quilts to alternate use betweenter. There were a full ten-odd little garments, thin and thick, enough that she wouldn��t need to prepare more even after the birth.


    Sometimes Guo Momo really could not help but want to cry her heart out. Growing up, her birth mother was hopeless and even paying for her schooling was only because she wanted to sell Guo Momo for a good price. After getting married, Mother-In-Law was also hopeless. Her husband went hot and cold. On the contrary, it was her husband��s grandfather and two aunts who truly made her feel what real family was.


    There was nothing good in this era. Those who came to visit mostly brought eggs and brown sugar, which were already considered precious items, especially the brown sugar which required sugar tickets to buy.


    The Pei family didn��t have many rtives in this area but they had been here for decades. Old Pei had quite a few veteranrades and Pei Jing had friends too.


    The An family was originally a big family. Although they were not as well off as before, they still had quite a few rtives and friends.


    Sister Zhang tidied up what others brought. The brown sugar totaled seven or eight jin. The eggs filled tworge baskets.


    The weather was hot now. Eggs especially could not be kept long. For the next few days, every meal on the table was eggs cooked in various ways - spicy stir-fried eggs, stir-fried eggs with bayberries, eggs with cucumber, egg drop soup. Even the farts smelled eggy after eating so many eggs.


    Old Pei personally handled pickling a basket of eggs. They gave some of the rest to Old Master An and the An family, some to Jiang Su and Guo Momo. Only after consuming most of them did it clear out.


    Pei Jing stayed home for six or seven days before leaving again as he really could not stay any longer.


    Fortunately they could reunite in the space. He was able toe back every period of time so it didn��t hinder things too much.


    The little baby was named Pei Chenyou by Old Master An, meaning blessing and protection.


    But most still called him Little Sixth. With so many children, it was easy to mix up names. Numbers were easier to distinguish and remember.


    They didn��t make a big fuss for the one month celebration. They just called over the family to gather and the happiest was undoubtedly Zhi Xia.


    To her, sitting the month was no different than sitting in prison. Today she finally regained freedom again.


    However, the downside of choosing to breastfeed was that she had to avoid certain foods. She loved spicy food but for now could only watch others eat or else Little Sixth would get heartburn. On hot summer days she also couldn��t eat popsicles. Newborns had weak digestion and getting diarrhea would be bad.


    Zhi Xia fed the children until they were full, asked Sister Zhang to help keep an eye on the little one, then took the twins out on her bicycle to wander around for half the afternoon. She went to the state-owned restaurant to fill up her own stomach before she was willing toe back.


    But before she even got inside the door, as soon as her bike bell rang outside, the triplets ran out with a "wah!"


    Old Pei chased after them, "Slow down, don''t fall, oh my little ancestors..."


    Just learning how to run, one kid ying is enough to tire out an adult. Three is still doable since they can y together without running around crazily, but once they go wild, they absolutely test one''s patience.


    Zhi Xia didn''t even make it inside the door before being grabbed by the legs, all three wailing nonstop.


    "You''re finally back. These three rascals knew you took their older siblings out to y. They kept fussing nonstop all morning in the living room, poking their heads out every so often..." Speaking of the behavior of his grandkids, Old Pei had an expression that was both humorous and annoyed.


    "Dad had a tiring day today. You should go rest up. I''ll keep an eye on them ying." After Zhi Xia spoke, she lowered her head again, "Hurry up and stop crying now, okay? Let''s go back inside first? Mom bought delicious food for you today, and even got a wave drum, see? If you keep holding onto my legs, we can''t even get back home..."


    The little ones stopped their tearful crying, took the wave drums from Zhi Xia''s hands. Only then could she get inside the door.


    But when she had just pushed her bike into the yard and looked back, she saw Little Fourth push Little Third down.


    Another burst of cries came out. By the time she put her bike away, Cheng Yan had already helped Little Third up.


    Wanqing pped Little Fourth''s butt, "Pei Chenan, you bullied brother again. Do you deserve a beating?"


    "No crying."


    Before he opened his mouth wanting to cry, Pei Wanqing''s rebuke made him sessfully close his mouth again.


    He could only sob slightly, inevitably somewhat aggrieved.


    Zhi Xia didn''t bother with them. The bloodline suppression from the older twins had the triplets tightly controlled, more effective than her own words.


    She dared to bet, if she went up to say something now, Little Fourth would definitely be unable to hold it in and it would turn into a huge fuss.


    Fortunately the twins acted very much like older siblings, rewards and punishments for the three younger brothers distinct, disciplining when needed, hitting when needed, not soft-hearted at all.


    Zhi Xia didn''t feel like verbal persuasion and education was definitely best. Times were different, now stick discipline was most fitting.


    With so many kids, words alone wouldn''t be able turn the heavens.


    ording to Pei Jing''s ount, when Pei JianGuo was young he was often beat by him, so now he was even more deferential to him than Pei Yong. That was the bloodline suppression, and also boys being born with admiration for the strong.


    On the contrary, the better protected they were, the less able to withstand blows, and it was very easy for them to copse.


    Zhi Xia felt there was some truth to this.


    In a few more years when the one-child policy takes effect, there would be more and more only children as precious babies. The children would be less and less able to withstand blows, this was also indisputable fact.


    With the twins watching them, things quieted down quickly outside. The wave drums and snacks Zhi Xia brought back were also distributed to the kids.


    Inside the room, Little Sixth had woken up already, blinking while looking for Zhi Xia, his little hands seeming like he wanted to reach out but didn''t know which way to exert effort.


    "This little guy has been awake for a while already. I changed his diaper and he didn''t cry or fuss, just unwilling to drink the form. I made it for him but he insisted on not drinking it so I gave it to Little Fifth." Sister Zhang told Zhi Xia about what happened while she was out.


    Zhi Xia smiled after listening, took out a piece of clothing from her bag and handed it to Sister Zhang, "Sister Zhang worked hard today. I saw this clothing at the store, feels like it would suit you well, hurry and try it on."


    Ready-made clothing at the mall cost at least ten yuan or more per outfit.


    And since Zhi Xia bought it, she must have picked the most suitable one instead of the cheapest, otherwise there would be no meaning in gifting it.


    Sister Zhang instantly smiled ear to ear, but her hands stretched out hesitantly, still feeling embarrassed, "Zhi Xia, you''re too polite, buying me clothes? I have clothes to wear."


    "I know you have clothes, but isn''t it getting hotter out? Having more clothes won''t hurt." Zhi Xia put the clothing in her hands and said.


    Sister Zhang simply didn''t refuse further. Although taking care of the children increased her workload quite a bit ever since Zhi Xia brought them back, but her monthly ie had also increased by quite a bit. Zhi Xia would think of her whenever going out, letting her take some pastries and snacks back home asionally too. Old Pei''s side also had her bring vegetables and the like.


    They gave generously. Sister Zhang had served Old Pei for many years already. Now no matter elderly or children, she would definitely serve them more attentively, not daring to make any mistakes.


    If she left this job, there likely wouldn''t be much hope in finding another one this good.


    Although Sister Zhang didn''t live here, she had her own room to rest since she spent the whole day here. During less busy times she could even sneak a nap.


    Going back to her room she quickly tried on the new clothes. Looking at the workmanship still being factory-made, the slippery smooth fabric feeling nice and cool against her skin. The colors were also attractive. She simply kept the outfit on instead of changing out.


    If they had just given her money to buy her own, she wouldn''t have borne to buy such nice clothing, after all there were still kids to feed back home.


    But clothes gifted by Zhi Xia were different. Even when asked about it back home she wouldn''t need to worry about usations of frivolous spending.


    Zhi Xia quickly went to feed Little Sixth milk. Cheng Yan was older now and shy, now knocking before entering and nevering in during nursing times.


    Although Wanqing was a girl, she followed whatever her older brother did. If he didn''t look, she didn''t look either.


    The triplets had no such apprehensions since they were still young. They swarmed in together, Little Fifth still waving his wave drum, the crinkling noises making Little Sixth frown, unwilling to even drink his milk.


    But when Zhi Xia wanted to put her shirt back down, he hurriedly turned back to suckle a few more mouthfuls, clearly not full yet.


    Zhi Xia helplessly said to the triplets, "You three go back out first to y with your older siblings, you''re scaring your little brother so much he doesn''t dare to drink his milk."


    Little Five immediately put the wave drum down on the table and ran over to pat Little Sixth''s little ws, "No noise, no leaving."


    Big sister was too fierce, even Little Fourth got hit. He was scared.


    With the wave drum sounds stopping, Little Sixth continued drinking his milk. Zhi Xia stopped rushing them out.


    Old Pei''s voice suddenly sounded from outside, "Zhi Xia, someone is here looking for you."


    "Oh,ing." Just when Little Sixth had drank his fill and slept, she put the child on the bed and lightly pulled the three rascals out, reminding them to keep their voices down too so as not to wake the little brother.


    But when she got out and saw the guest, her brows instantly furrowed.

 Chapter 275: It鈥檚 All in Disguise

    <h4>Chapter 275</h4>


    "Director Liang, long time no see. I didn''t expect it would be youing here..." Xi Zhixia was also surprised that the personing was Liang Zhiwei, but she soon adjusted her expression.


    "Yes, long time no see." Liang Zhiwei nced at Old Pei, who was vigntly looking at him, and smiled bitterly. He didn''t hide anything and then asked Zhixia, "Comrade An, I''m sorry to bother you this time. My wife wants to see you. I wonder if it''s convenient for you?"


    Liang Zhiwei looked even more exhausted than he did a month ago. His former spirit and vigor were gone. If he used to bepared to a jackal, then now he was a beast that had beenpletely crushed.


    It was Zhao Jingyun who wanted to see her. Zhixia instantly thought of Old Zhao.


    After all, apart from the few literacy sses, she and Zhao Jingyun didn''t have much contact, even less than she had with Liang Zhiwei. She shouldn''t have any reason to look for her.


    "Is Teacher Zhao''s health okay?" Zhixia asked deliberately, knowing full well that she could not be okay.


    Sure enough, a sh of pain crossed Liang Zhiwei''s eyes. "The doctor said she doesn''t have many days left."


    Over the years, they had always seen doctors properly. He had tried every possible way to cure her. Even the doctors said that his wife''s body showed no major problems in the checkups, but she just never recovered and would have attacks from time to time.


    In recent days, it had be more serious.


    Zhixia thought about it and decided to go see her after all, if only to give Zhao face.


    She turned her head to Old Pei and said indifferently, "Dad, Teacher Zhao was my teacher in the literacy ss before. She helped me a lot. Now that she is in poor health, I should go see her out of personal affection and moral obligation. Please watch the children for me."


    "Okay, then you go," Old Pei said when he heard that Zhixia had history with Liang Zhiwei''s wife.


    He didn''t have much dealings with Liang Zhiwei, but in recent years, anyone would know the name of Director Liang from the Thought Reform Committee.


    Although his position was not high, his power was not small. Many with higher positions than his had been brought down by him, and the lucky ones were still living in detention houses.


    As for the unlucky ones, they were afraid they couldn''t even keep their lives.


    Zhixia pushed her bike out the door, and Liang Zhiwei hurried to catch up.


    Once outside, Liang Zhiwei stopped Zhixia from riding her bike and said, "Comrade An, I have some more things I want to tell you, about what to pay attention to when you see my wife."


    Not having seen each other for years and having no vested interests between them, their terms of address had also be estranged.


    "Go ahead," Zhixia nodded.


    "When you were young in Anle Vige, did you know an old man surnamed Zhao?" When Liang Zhiwei asked this question, his eyes stared tightly at Zhixia. It seemed to have nothing to do with Zhao Jingyun at all, if Zhixia didn''t know the rtionship between Old Zhao and Zhao Jingyun.


    "There was a Grandpa Zhao who was very kind to me. Director Liang should also know my family background. I was abused by the Gao family at that time. I often sneaked up the hillside alone and met Grandpa Zhao cutting pigweed a few times. He said I looked like his daughter and kept persuading me. He also took good care of me..." Because their situations were so bad at that time, they really couldn''t help each other.


    It was just that she was so oppressed at that time and felt particrly sad when she went to talk to Old Zhao. He always persuaded her patiently.


    But the good times didn''tst long. As she grew older, the Gao family controlled her more strictly. In the end, they hardly let her go out the door. Meanwhile, Old Zhao also went to his death under the heavy physicalbor.


    Liang Zhiwei sighed, but he didn''t look happy at all. "The Grandpa Zhao you knew was my father-inw, my wife''s father."


    "So Teacher Zhao wants to see me because of Grandpa Zhao?" Zhixia felt it was very ironic. From Jincheng to Anle Vige was just a short drive, but Old Zhao didn''t live to see his own daughtere to visit him.


    Liang Zhiwei did not deny it. Instead, he carefully exined, "My wife is the only daughter in the family. She loved her father very much. When the old man had the ident, she was in poor health, and I didn''t dare let her know about the situation. I lied to her that the old man''s side was all taken care of so that she wouldn''t worry. It wasn''t until a few years ago that she learned of her father''s death, which weighed on her mind. I hope you canfort her more and make her believe that the spirit of the old man in heaven wouldn''t want his beloved daughter to keep feeling guilty for not being able to apany him when she was gued by grief. Don''t you agree?"


    Liang Zhiwei stared at Zhixia so solemnly that she realized she seemed to be threatened.


    Zhixia smiled and said thoughtfully, "Liang Zhiwei is so good to Teacher Zhao."


    "Of course, she''s my wife," Liang Zhiwei really loved Zhao Jingyun. Just mentioning her name would make his eyes gentle.


    Things went faster after getting on the bike. Liang Zhiwei didn''t mind that Zhixia hadn''t directly agreed to his words. He was still a little arrogant. It was uncertain whether An Zhixia would dare or necessarily want to oppose him.


    During their dealings in previous years, he saw that this girl looked simple on the surface but had no shortage of careful thoughts underneath.


    Especially regarding the situation of An Meiyun being bitten to death by venomous bugs in broad daylight in the detention room, he still had great doubts about it to this day.


    Liang Zhiwei''s home was a staff building. Although there were only two people living there, it was a 3-room apartment assigned to him after the fall of the Zhao family when he joined Thought Reform Committee.


    He took out his keys and opened the door for Zhixia to see the interioryout for the first time.


    The house was wellid out and should have been full of sunshine, but because the curtains were drawn, it looked rather gloomy.


    As soon as they stepped inside, continuous coughing could be hearding from the bedroom.


    Liang Zhiwei put down his keys and bag on the table without even greeting Zhixia. He hurried to the bedroom.


    "Jingyun, are you okay?" He busied himself checking on his wife''s condition and helped her drink some water. No matter who witnessed this, he looked like a good husband.


    Zhao Jingyun was coughing too hard to speak and could only weakly shake her head.


    Zhixia stood in the doorway, watching this scene quietly.


    After a long time, when Zhao Jingyun''s condition stabilized, Liang Zhiwei spoke again, "Jingyun, didn''t you want to see Comrade An? I brought her here for you."


    Only then did Zhao Jingyun notice Zhixia standing at the door. She struggled to liven herself up and beckoned to her.


    Zhixia walked in and finally got a clear look at Zhao Jingyun''s face.


    Compared to a month ago, her condition had worsened. Her body was as thin as firewood. Lying in bed like this made her look more like struggling before death.


    "Teacher Zhao, how are you feeling?" Zhixia grasped her bony hand and could profoundly feel that there was not the slightest bit of flesh on it, just skin clinging to the bones.


    Zhao Jingyun didn''t answer Zhixia''s question. She was too weak to say more than one sentence without great effort and wanted to save her strength for important matters.


    "Old Liang, I want to talk to Zhixia alone for a few words." She looked at Liang Zhiwei with clouded eyes.


    Liang Zhiwei was somewhat reluctant, but his wife''s pleading eyes made him have topromise. "Alright, you can chat in the room. I''ll go out first, but you have to promise me to take it easy and not get too emotional, okay?"


    Zhao Jingyun nodded weakly, and he got up to leave.


    However, in the moment he turned around, his eyes were fixed tightly on Zhixia''s face, the threatening implication even more obvious.


    Zhixia only frowned at Zhao Jingyun as if she were truly worried about her.

 Chapter 276: Love Hate Entanglements

    <h4>Chapter 276</h4>


    As soon as the door was closed, Zhao Jingyun impatiently asked her, "Zhixia, I went to Anle Vige and learned from the vige chief that my father had a good rtionship with you before he passed away. So I wanted to ask if he...if he med me for anything?"


    "If Teacher Zhao is asking about this, I can tell you very clearly that Older Zhao never med you for anything. Before he died, he was still thinking of you and said that as long as you live well, nothing else matters," Zhixia said directly.


    But her words were like a dagger stabbing Zhao Jingyun''s heart.


    She couldn''t control her blurry vision, and her hoarse voice that had be rough from long-term coughing was even more coarse as she spoke, "It''s me who wronged him, it''s me who failed my father. I don''t deserve to be his daughter. If it wasn''t for me, he wouldn''t have ended up like this. I don''t deserve to live...I should be the one to die..."


    Zhixia''s heart stirred as she looked at Zhao Jingyun withplicated eyes.


    She did know after all.


    She had her suspicions all along. After the Zhao family''s downfall, Liang Zhiwei had swiftly risen in the Ideology Branch, and his career had smoothly progressed since. Zhao Jingyun''s mother passed away early, and Older Zhao had raised her alone, so the father and daughter were very close. But Older Zhao died within an hour''s travel distance from Zhao Jingyun without getting to see his daughter onest time.


    With Liang Zhiwei''s power in the Ideology Branch at that time, and his feelings for her, how difficult could it have been for Zhao Jingyun to visit her ailing father?


    If she didn''t go, it was likely not just because Liang Zhiwei hid the details from her, but also because she felt guilty that her husband had destroyed her father. She didn''t dare, and was too ashamed to face the father who had been harmed by her husband.


    She even had to pretend ignorance while continuing to act as the loving wife to Liang Zhiwei after clearly knowing the truth.


    Humph!


    Zhixia suddenly felt that Zhao Jingyun was even more hypocritical and disgustingpared to Gao Meiyun''s tantly crude evil.


    Zhixiaughed mockingly while squatting next to Zhao Jingyun''s bed. "Teacher Zhao, do you know, you used to be the person I envied most. I didn''t know you back then, but whenever I got beaten, I''d go find Older Zhao and listen to him talk about you and feel his fatherly love for you. I thought to myself back then, how blissful you must be. Even as he greatly hoped you would go see him, he cheerfully said it was fine if you didn''t go since he didn''t want to drag down his grown daughter. He said it was enough that an old man like him had lived a full life. As long as you were well, he could pass peacefully even in death..."


    Zhao Jingyun wept uncontrobly, unable to catch her breath as she stared at Zhixia while making choking sounds from her throat, as if something was blocking her throat.


    Zhixia helped pat her chest while passing over the water Zhao Jingyun had just drunken from. Without Zhao Jingyun noticing, she had secretly added drops of Frigid me Fruit juice earlier, ensuring that Zhao Jingyun would temporarily keep her life. After all, Zhao Jingyun was Liang Zhiwei''s beloved and treasured wife. If she were to die in front of Zhixia right now, even if it wasn''t her fault, Liang Zhiwei might still go mad and snap at her.


    After Zhao Jingyun calmed down, she still had tears flowing as she remained immersed in regret, with words of ming herself for harming Older Zhao continuously pouring from her mouth.


    Looking at her trapped in a vicious cycle, Zhixia felt for the first time that pitiable people inevitably had hateful qualities.


    Zhao Jingyun had known all along that Liang Zhiwei had harmed Older Zhao. But unwilling to give up the peaceful life she had, she was always whitewashing the truth and deceiving herself.


    What about Older Zhao?


    He had likely known as well.


    After all, with experiencees wisdom, and he was an intelligent man.


    The pity was, even as he reached such a state, he was still looking out for his daughter''s wellbeing.


    "Teacher Zhao, do you still want to live?" Zhixia never felt that death was the end. But she understood clearly that only the living could feel the rity of pain.


    Zhao Jingyun was selfish. Over the years, she must have been tormented by guilt for failing to resolutely protect her father, which led to her perpetual ill health.


    Zhixia assumed that she would want to go on living, but unexpectedly, Zhao Jingyun shook her head.


    "Please...thank you for making this trip. You may leave now." After some time, Zhao Jingyun barely managed to string these words together.


    Zhixia stood up. "Then I shall take my leave. Take care of your health, Teacher Zhao."


    When Zhixia opened the door, she saw Liang Zhiwei standing right outside. She didn''t even try to avoid him, only meeting his slightly gloomy gaze.


    Zhixia calmly exited and closed the bedroom door before lowering her voice, "Director Liang, I didn''t say anything out of line. I only spoke good things that would be nice to hear."


    Liang Zhiwei also knew he had no reason to be angry. He pulled up the corners of his lips in a faint smile. "Thank you for going out of your way today, Comrade An. I have to take care of my wife and won''t be able to send you off. Travel safely."


    "Goodbye then. I hope Teacher Zhao recovers soon." Zhixia smiled politely.


    Once she left, the smile instantly vanished from Liang Zhiwei''s face. He hurried back into the bedroom.


    "Jingyun..." Liang Zhiwei sat by the bed with a look of distress as he gazed upon Zhao Jingyun.


    Despite obvious signs of crying, she forced an smile. "Zhiwei, she said my father didn''t me me. As long as he doesn''t me me, I can face him without fear after I die. I''ll be going below the ground soon, so at least I can meet my father with peace of mind."


    "Don''t speak nonsense. You promised to live a long life with me, Jingyun," Liang Zhiwei said.


    "But my health has been..."


    Zhao Jingyun sighed, with everything unspoken yet understood.


    Liang Zhiwei could onlyfort her. The doctors had already given their final verdict - his wife''s health had long reached the brink of copse. She had barely prolonged her life through sheer willpower.


    He had tried every method he could, truly at a loss over what more he could do.


    "You promised, Jingyun. You can''t die. I''ll find another way. We''ll go to Haicheng, to Jingdu - better doctors out there can surely cure you..."


    Zhao Jingyun looked at Liang Zhiwei with eyes brimming with hot tears. "Zhiwei, I''m not afraid of dying. I''m just afraid that when I''m gone, you''ll forget me. You''re still so young with great prospects. Whenever I think of you marrying someone else in the future, I feel miserable to death. I know I''m being selfish dragging this sick body when I couldn''t even bear you a child. But I just can''t ept it."


    Liang Zhiwei said, "You don''t have to ept it. I''ve never thought about marrying someone else. Jingyun, I only want you. If they''re not your children, I won''t love them either. Believe me."


    "I believe you," Zhao Jingyun nestled into his embrace, then couldn''t suppress another bout of coughs. But the hidden look in her eyes differed from the rich affection in Liang Zhiwei''s eyes, containing a hint of resentment instead.


    Naturally doctors wouldn''t be able to cure her illness. The cure to a mental affliction muste from within. With inner demons guing her, how could she possibly heal? Over the years, she had weakly indulged in the tenderness Liang Zhiwei gave her, while also hating herself forcking the resolve to protect her father.


    She had thought she was afraid of dying, but upon reaching death''s door, she realized it didn''t seem very frightening after all. As for how Liang Zhiwei would carry on without her after her death, that would be his just deserts.


    Zhao Jingyun definitely loved Liang Zhiwei, yet she also truly hated him. Why did he have to destroy their happy household and her hopes, even causing the death of their unborn children? Two lives had relentlessly torn her heart asunder.

 Chapter 277: Tea is Good

    <h4>Chapter 277</h4>


    Three dayster, An Family learned about the news of Zhao Jingyun''s death.


    It was Guo Momo who mentioned it. Since Pei JianGuo actually knew Liang Zhiwei, he was going to pay a condolence visit.


    They were not very closely rted to start with, so there was no need to take it to heart. Still there was some sadness for the old man Zhao.


    Selfish people are really not as good as being a little silly. Even if she was deceived by Liang Zhiwei, it would have been better than her knowing her father was murdered yet pretending not to know for her own sake.


    However, it can''t be said that she was heartless. The guilt weighed on her heart and led to her untimely death at a young age.


    When An Family arrived home on his bicycle with the twins, Zhou Nan came out to meet them, "I was just telling your third uncle toe to pick you up. From now on, bring the kids here. I didn''t expect you toe by yourself."


    After saying that, Zhou Nan started asking the twins questions. She alsoined to An Family, "Wanqing has grown up. You can tie up her long hair for her. It looks better for a girl to have small braids. These two kids look too much alike. It''s not good when they wear the same clothes, it''s hard to tell them apart."


    Even Zhou Nan who took care of the twins frequently could only tell them apart when they spoke, if they wore the same clothes.


    It was fine with family, but outsiders knowing that she couldn''t recognize her own grandchildren would be embarrassing.


    "It''s not that I don''t want to tie her hair. This little girl doesn''t like it herself. She deliberately keeps the same hairstyle as her brother, so that her brother takes the me if she does something wrong." An Family teased Wan Qing on purpose, making the little girl stomp her feet in embarrassment.


    She took the eggs, brown sugar and dates she brought on the bicycle and asked, "Where is eldest brother? Can hee back?"


    Liu Ling was sent to the hospital yesterday afternoon. An Family also went to see her, but she returned home in the evening. Grandma said this morning that all the adults and children hade back, so she brought some gifts to visit.


    "It''s a girl. Your eldest brother also has both son and daughter now. You know, she is learning from you, always feels hospitals are unsafe. After giving birth withoutplications, she decided to bring the baby home directly to make it more convenient to take care of them." Zhou Nan took over the things in her hands and said.


    An Family asked again, "Where is big brother? Can hee back?"


    "He was notified a few days ago, probably in the next couple of days."


    Zhou Nan led An Family to Liu Ling''s room. Wen Qing Grandma was there with two daughters-inw.


    "Mother, my young daughter hase to see her sister-inw." Zhou Nan deliberately put the things An Family brought on the table and said to Liu Ling, "An Family brought red dates. Eat some when you have time. This is better for nourishing blood than brown sugar."


    Liu Ling still looked weak. She smiled and said, "An Family shouldn''t have gone to so much trouble. Since you came, juste."


    "What if the niece doesn''t call me auntie in the future if I show up empty handed?" An Family joked. She also took out the small baby clothes she made, "I made light yellow little clothes that can be worn by both boys and girls."


    With a room full of people, they were just praising each other.


    Wen Qing brought the twins onto the bed to show off her little sister. An Family quickly urged them to be careful not to press on the newborn.


    After chatting for a while, she called the twins out so as not to disturb the mother and daughter reunion time of Liu Family.


    After An Family left, only then did Liu Mother nod in satisfaction and urged Liu Ling, "The difference between one''s own and not one''s own is obvious. My young sister-inw, you are much better than the fake one before. Thoughtful and sensible. I guess Wen Qing is also very close to you. You must take good care of the children on a daily basis, right?"


    "Why mention that person, ominous!" Liu Ling had almost forgotten about the days in the family when Gao Meiyun was there. Compared to that sister-inw who always picked faults with her, it was definitely morefortable to get along with An Family. "But An Family is very nice. Wen Qing thinks about going to visit his grandma''s ce every few days. He actually just wants to find his aunt and younger siblings. The twins in An Family''s family alsoe here often, following Wen Qing."


    Kids don''t differentiate between males and females. Anyway, they stick together all day. Wen Qing used to be an only child, about two years older than the other two, but the rtionship seems closer than typical blood-rted siblings.


    Liu Mother also reminded her, "Let''s just talk about this privately. Don''t mention the previous one in front of your mother-inw."


    After all, it was a child she had raised with her own hands. It may not be good, but still she couldn''t bear to hear others speak ill of her.


    Liu Ling smiled, "I''m not stupid."


    Lunch was eaten here, with Liu Family''s people as well.


    Although An Family was an honored guest, she was still closer than Liu Family''s people. She consciously went to the kitchen to help cook.


    Second brother and sister-inw came over at lunch time. Their two-month-old baby was able to go out now. The grape-like eyes seemed to radiate light and liveliness.


    At the dining table, An JingZhi and Liu Father drank wine. Lunchsted until mid afternoon before ending.


    After Liu Family''s people left, An JingZhi sprawled on the sofa while Zhou Nan held her waist to clean up the bowls and chopsticks.


    An Family originally wanted to help, but Zheng Suchun stuffed a child into her arms and took the initiative to help clean up.


    Finally An Family understood why Zhou Mother was so enthusiastic back then about introducing a country daughter-inw to An ZhiXian.


    It''s not that countryside girls are not good and deserve to be looked down upon, but people always consider their own rtives first.


    Whether it was Zhou Nan or Zheng Suchun, from the day they got married, they were conscious that they had married up. Therefore, they were always hard working and capable in handling household chores and taking care of children, never letting their husbands get involved or daring to ask them for help.


    In his forties, An JingZhi stillfortably enjoyed Zhou Nan''s dedication.


    This was also most men''smon failing. Even if there were loud calls for gender equality, when it came to familymitment, it was still unequal.


    Even Zheng Suchun could see Zhou Nan''s fatigue, but they chose to turn a blind eye.


    Zheng Suchun took the initiative to clean up the dishes and utensils in the kitchen, taking on most of the work, so that Zhou Nan only needed to wipe the table and sweep the floor to rest.


    Before she even sat firmly, An JingZhi opened his mouth, "ZhiXing''s mom, make me a cup of tea."


    He held a newspaper in his hand, eyes not leaving it at all.


    "Mom, sit down. I''ll go make it." An Family got up and handed the child to An ZhiXian, who was sitting to the side chatting with An JingZhi from time to time.


    Zhou Nan lightly murmured, using her hand to gently support her lower back.


    The tea leaves in An JingZhi''s cab were pretty good, although not as nice as hers from the space.


    An Family deliberately made a strong cup of tea for him and brought it over, putting it in front of him, "Dad, your tea."


    Only then did An JingZhi look up in surprise, meeting An Family''s meaningful eyes.


    She was clearly smiling, yet he did not feel a smile at all.


    In front of this daughter, An JingZhi had always felt guilty.


    He mumbled a response, picked up the cup and took a sip, pausing slightly.


    Sure enough, it was a strong tea. Mostly tea leaves in one cup of water. It made him feel bad for wasting his newly found good tea.


    He cleared his throat and didn''t dare say anything.


    Wastage only this once. This was the only time she had made tea for him these years. He couldn''t find fault with it.

 Chapter 278: Premature Birth

    <h4>Chapter 278</h4>


    ZhiXia also brought Zhou Nan and herself a cup, without putting in as many tea leaves.


    After drinking a sip, Zhou Nan frowned with a smile and said, "I''m used to drinking in water. I really can''t enjoy this blessing."


    "Chewing peony flowers pointlessly," what An JingZhi said was not actually looking down on anyone. He was just used to being in a privileged family position.


    Zhou Nan didn''t mind either. Most of the time, she didn''t really understand what he said, she could only tell his tone.


    ZhiXia shook her head helplessly, then said to Zhou Nan, "You know your health is not good and your waist hurts, so do less work. Everyone in this family is capable, it can operate smoothly without you, working more will only exhaust yourself to death, and no one will suffer for you."


    Hugging her daughter, An ZhiXian touched her nose quietly and nced at An JingZhi.


    An JingZhi was stunned by ZhiXia''s words, but he resonated a lot and said, "What ZhiXia said makes sense. Grandchildren have their own fortunes, and they are not kids anymore and have ns for their own lives. We can only help out when we can, but we must take care of our own health first."


    An ZhiXian didn''t feel wronged at all. After he got married he moved out and now he and Zheng Sucun were also living a good life. He would asionallye back for a meal. Zheng��s family was also very capable with housework, and could even help out.


    Zhou Nan red at him and said, "There are so many things to do inside and outside the house. If I don''t take care of them, you will all have to eat the northwest wind."


    From eating to dressing, household cleaning and cing items, she alone had been busy with everything inside and out over the years. If she was really ruthless and let go, the days probably wouldn''t go on.


    An JingZhi looked at ZhiXia and said, "You see, your mother just can��t sit still herself. It''s not that we enve her."


    ZhiXia didn''t say anything more. As An JingZhi thought, she didn��t know how to enjoy life and strive for happiness herself. She was not tired working hard. Even if ZhiXia wanted to help her, it was useless.


    It wasn��t until the sky was almost dark when ZhiXia brought the twins back to her own home.


    Sister Zhang hugged little Li�� and hurried out from the room, "ZhiXia is back. Chen Ze and the other two went next door. Old Pei is anxious and went to the hospital because Jian Guo''s daughter-inw is going to give birth. Hold little Li��, I��m going to cook for you guys. I��ll also go to the hospitalter to see if Jian Guo��s daughter-inw has given birth and bring her some food.��


    ZhiXia was shocked. "Wasn''t it still a month away? How did she suddenly go intobor?"


    The prematurebor time was not short. In this medically underdeveloped era, big problems might happen.


    "Who knows? Jian Guo��s friend rushed over to notify us, saying she fell at home, and we don''t know how she fell..." Sister Zhang was also worried in her heart. After all, Guo Momo''s sweet mouth often came to cheer her up.


    ZhiXia thought for a moment, then said to Sister Zhang: ��Sister Zhang, I��ll go feed Little Li�� milk. You just fix yourself some food first, no need to cook for me. I��ll go out to buy something from the street for Jian Guo��s daughter-inw to bring it to herter. If Ie backte, just send little Li�� to my grandma''s ce and ask them to help take care of the children."


    Although little Li�� was breastfed, the family also had some form prepared just in case when she went out.


    "You can go too." After all, she was the auntie. She should go see how��s everything, Sister Zhang thought.


    After ZhiXia finished feeding and Little Li�� had fallen asleep, Sister Zhang had also finished cooking and refused her suggestion to eat something too. She hurriedly pushed the cart out.


    Halfway there, she prepared a meat porridge from the space, and in case of emergency, she specially used a few drops of life water obtained from trading with the little elves.


    At the hospital entrance, she happened to meet An ZhiXian who was just getting off work.


    Hearing that Jian Guo and the others were also at the hospital, he was in no hurry to go home after work and followed Zhi Xia to the delivery room.


    In the corridor outside the delivery room, Old Pei sat on a stool gazing at the delivery room door in dismay, lookingpletely decadent.


    Something was clearly wrong with the appearances of the grandfather and grandson. ZhiXia rushed over with the food, "Dad, how is Momo? I heard from Sister Zhang that she fell. What happened?"


    Old Pei nced at Jian Guo and just sighed, "It hasn''te out yet. Because it was prematurebor, the doctor said her condition was not very good."


    The delivery room door opened just then. A nurse popped her head out from inside, "The mother is a little weak. Do you have any food prepared?"


    "Yes." ZhiXia immediately handed over the porridge in her hand, "Please ask, could one of us go in to apany her?"


    ZhiXia was well-known in the delivery room. The nurse hesitated for a moment, then said, "A family member cane in to apany her and chat with her, encourage her more."


    ZhiXia looked at Jian Guo, but found he was still dazed. She could only reach out and push him to get his attention, "What are you still dazing off for? Didn''t you hear what she said?"


    "No..." Jian Guo looked frightened, instead of going forward, he backed away two steps. "I... I dare not..."


    He only knew that Momo had lost a lot of blood, and the look in her eyes at him was desperate.


    He dared not face her. He could not bear it.


    The nurse urged again, "Have you guys decided? Come in quickly if you want to, we don''t have too much time to dy."


    "Useless," Jian Guo dared not go in and Old Pei and An ZhiXian were even less suitable, so ZhiXia could only go in herself.


    The delivery room was full of the smell of blood. Guo Momo''s hair was stuck to her sweaty face. The lower half of her body was covered with a cloth, but the upper half was still stained with blood.


    "You can talk to the mother. It would be best if you could wake her up and let her eat something to replenish her strength."


    The scene in the delivery room made ZhiXia feel numb even as an experienced mother of several children. "Since she''s like this already, can''t you opt for surgery?"


    The nurse exined, "The fetal position has been corrected, the baby is head down now, but the mother has no strength. Let''s see if she can regain some strength first. The operating room has been prepared too. If it really doesn''t work then we''ll have to do a C-section."


    Medical technology was still insufficient, so they could only choose the simplest method to treat patients and do what was best for the birth mother.


    ZhiXia leaned close to Guo Momo''s ear and called her several times, but she didn''t respond much.


    She only opened her eyes when ZhiXia called her name again, looked weakly at ZhiXia, and tear droplets rolled down from the corners of her eyes.


    Although she still didn''t know what had happened, ZhiXia could see that she felt very wronged.


    "Don''t be scared, I''ll feed you something first, let''s persevere and once the baby is born it will be fine..." ZhiXiaforted her.


    She opened the thermal container she brought. The porridge inside was still hot.


    But she thought Guo Momo might not even have the strength to swallow, so she simply abandoned feeding her porridge. Instead she poured some life water into a bowl.


    Guo Momo was so exhausted her eyes could barely open. ZhiXia could only pour water into her mouth with a spoon.


    The life water was spirit water that nurtured life after all. Its effectiveness was much greater than snow fruit. After a few spoonfuls, Guo Momo''s condition changed notably. Her eyes were no longer lifeless like before.


    The delivery room door was knocked and opened from the outside. "The operating room is ready. How is the mother now?"


    The nurse took a look at Guo Momo��s condition and replied, "She seems to have regained some energy, let��s try again."


    ZhiXia was being pushed out of the way. The nurse guided Guo Momo to push by her ear.


    ZhiXia quietly stood by and watched the midwife say joyfully, "It��sing out now. She is pushing hard, it''s almost out."


    The baby slipped out smoothly, a skinnny little thing, like a small kitten.

 Chapter 279: The Truth

    <h4>Chapter 279</h4>


    When Zhi Xia gave birth, Guo Momo and her newborn were both rushed for emergency treatment.


    It was a boy, weighing 4.7 jin. He didn''t cry at all after birth. His whole body was ck and blue, with blisters on his chest. His facial features were still blurry, clearly underdeveloped.


    Pei JianGuo was stunned. Old Pei came to inquire about Zhi Xia despite his hardship. She didn''t hide anything and told him the truth.


    The baby was born but the situation was still not good. Whether he would live or die depended on the effect of the emergency treatment.


    "Dad, what on earth happened to Momo? Do you know?"


    Pei JianGuo was beyond help. As a grown man, he couldn''t take the blow. Zhi Xia could only ask Old Pei.


    "She...fell down." It was an extremely perfunctory answer. She didn''t know whether Old Pei really didn''t know or pretended not to know.


    She didn''t bother asking anymore and found a ce to sit, waiting for the result of the emergency treatment.


    Before Guo Momo was taken away, Zhi Xia fed her some life water, hoping it would help.


    After all, it was a living life, a young girl.


    Pei Sheng and Jiang Su also hurried over to inquire about the situation.


    Old Pei gave the same answer. Jiang Su regretted and said with such a big belly, how could she have an ident and not been more careful.


    An ZhiXian hadn''t left. Zhi Xia told him to go back first. There were so many people here already and it was useless. Moreover, he had to work tomorrow. Doctors couldn''t rest well.


    He didn''t insist on staying and only told Zhi Xia to take care of herself.


    It wasn''t untilte into the night that Guo Momo was moved into a ward and the baby survived. But he would need careful attention in the future given his poor health. Even a minor illness could take his life.


    As for Guo Momo, the damage to her body this time was too great. She may have trouble conceiving in the future.


    But that didn''t matter. As long as Zhi Xia was willing and Guo Momo was alive, she could recover.


    Old Pei was getting on in years and Pei JianGuo was beyond hope. Jiang Su sighed helplessly, "I''ll stay here with Momo. You guys go back and rest if nothing else. Whoever has time tomorrow,e over to take over for me?"


    Old Pei looked at Pei JianGuo for a long time before calling out in disappointment, "JianGuo, lying inside is your wife. Look at yourself now. As a man, do you have any sense of responsibility?"


    Pei JianGuo shuddered and looked up nkly at everyone, clearly not having heard what was just said.


    Jiang Su could only repeat it again. Only then did Pei JianGuo say, "Tomorrow...I''lle."


    Although she got what she wanted, the disappointment remained. Jiang Su shook her head helplessly and pulled Zhi Xia aside, "I don''t think JianGuo can be counted on. Have Sister Zhange to help keep watch tomorrow. I still have to work during the day and can onlye over at night to take over for a few days."


    This time, she didn''t pity Pei JianGuo at all. She purely pitied Guo Momo.


    The poor girl originally thought marrying Pei JianGuo was a blessing. Now it seemed she had terrible luck marrying such a man.


    "I''ll let Sister Zhang know. I''ll alsoe over when I have time," Zhi Xia said. "Sister-inw, don''t you feel Momo''s fall is a bit strange? If she fell by herself, wouldn''t Pei''s reaction be a bit much?"


    Although Jiang Su was disappointed with Pei JianGuo, she didn''t think further about it. "He must have been scared witless. He and Momo always had decent affection. Suddenly something like this happening must have shocked him."


    Guo Momo still hadn''t woken up so Zhi Xia didn''t want to put the me on Pei JianGuo for now.


    Of course, it would be best if this incident had nothing to do with him. No one wanted more chaos in the family.


    Zhi Xia supported Old Pei out of the hospital, still feeling his tense muscles.


    By the time they returned home, it was past midnight.


    The house was pitch ck with the children not home. Zhi Xia helped Old Pei inside before going to rest herself.


    She was awakened early next morning by the children''s voices. She quickly got up and talked to them, also telling Sister Zhang about the situation. Sister Zhang readily agreed to help.


    After hurriedly eating, Zhi Xia first went to the hospital.


    Hearing the noise, Jiang Su frowned impatiently in the ward. Turning back and seeing it was Zhi Xia, all her anger evaporated. "Why are you here so early? Where''s Pei JianGuo?"


    They had agreed yesterday that she had work today and Pei JianGuo woulde over himself to keep watch. Yet there was still no sign of him now.


    "I came to see if Momo was awake and bring over some food. Pei JianGuo still hasn''te?" Zhi Xia frowned.


    "Oh!" Jiang Su''s attitude indicated the current circumstances. "She still hasn''t woken up. What did you bring to eat? I''m really hungry."


    Zhi Xia hurriedly scooped rice into a bowl for her while she went to look at Guo Momo herself.


    Her face was ghastly white without a trace of color. Fortunately her chest still rose and fell, indicating she was still alive.


    Jiang Su wolfed down the rice and asked Zhi Xia, "Zhi Xia, can you stay here and keep watch for a bit if you''re free until JianGuoes to take over? I really have to get to work and don''t have time to keep waiting."


    "Then you go. I''ll stay here and watch," Zhi Xia said.


    Jiang Su told her what to pay attention to and to use a spoon to moisten Guo Momo''s lips from time to time before hurrying off.


    It wasn''t until midday that Pei JianGuo finally arrived, still wearing yesterday''s rumpled clothes. He looked rather disheveled.


    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry, I camete," stubble was sprouting on Pei JianGuo''s face, making him look slovenly.


    And he came empty-handed, clearly in a rush.


    Of course, it wasn''t because he had something important to do. After returning homest night, he had felt restless. Bumping into Wang Yue''s nagging, he hadin in bed tossing and turning, unable to fall asleep until it was almost dawn before he finally drifted off, waking up only now.


    He hadn''t washed his face or brushed his teeth, just directly rushing over.


    Some people were like that by nature, not something that could be changed by scolding.


    Zhi Xia briefed him on what to pay attention to before leaving to return home, as she still worried about whether Pei JianGuo could properly care for the patient. She asked Sister Zhang to hurry over, with Old Pei going along too.


    With no one home, Zhi Xia felt the difference having no help with so many kids.


    From morning to night, she was exhausted to the point of fuming.


    Of course the matter with Guo Momo could not be kept from Pei Yong. It was onlyter that Zhi Xia learned that Guo Momo fell because of Pei Shuangshuang.


    Wang Yue didn''t truly want to sever ties when she told them to move out. Seeing their situation getting better and better, she could no longer use money to coerce them otherwise it would only push her son further away.


    Guo Momo understood Pei JianGuo''s temper. Wang Yue was even clearer about her son''s character.


    Starting half a month ago, she had coaxed Pei JianGuo back home, then put all kinds of pressure on Guo Momo while Pei Shuangshuang constantly caused trouble.


    Finally, Guo Momo couldn''t stand it anymore and talked back a few times. Pei Shuangshuang pushed her to the ground and she started heavily bleeding on the spot.


    Old Pei had wanted to smooth things over but if not for Guo Momo waking up and calling the hospital and police for help, Zhi Xia and the rest would still be kept in the dark.

 Chapter 280: The first time I鈥檝e said that.

    <h4>Chapter 280</h4>


    A week after Guo Momo was hospitalized, Zhi Xia went to visit her.


    Knowing An Mei Xia''s experience probably made Zhi Xia feel morepassion towards Guo Momo.


    It was as if she could see another girl endlessly struggling in her marriage, yet unable to break free.


    These past few days, Sister Zhang had been taking care of things here. Zhi Xia secretly slipped her twenty yuan. Everyone tacitly understood.


    Otherwise, whether it was Pei JianGuo or Wang Yueing, it would be hard to predict what other mess might happen in this alreadyplicated situation.


    Zhi Xia took out some of the things she brought and put them on the table, and put the rest in the cab. They were all practical items - malted milk and a few strands of grapes. Guo Momo was terribly weak right now and would need a long time of nourishing.


    Handing her the washed grapes, Zhi Xia looked at her. In just a few days, she seemed to have lost her former innocence. Her once bright eyes were pitch ck, not revealing what she was thinking.


    "Are you feeling better physically?" Zhi Xia asked her.


    Guo Momo still had a good attitude towards Zhi Xia. She also knew that these past few days, she had Sister Zhang to thank for taking care of her, especially when Guo Momo thanked Sister Zhang, Sister Zhang subtly indicated that the young mistress had already given her thanks.


    "Much better. I can be discharged from the hospital tomorrow," Guo Momo said hoarsely as she took two grapes and ate them. Unrestrained tears streamed down her face. "Auntie, do you also think I took advantage of the situation for personal gain?"


    Pei Shuangshuang pushing her was ultimately ssified as a family dispute because she agreed to settle.


    The condition was that Wang Yue had topensate her 5,000 yuan.


    It was not a small sum, but it was what Guo Momo decided after careful consideration.


    When Old Pei divided up the family money, he had given out 3,500 yuan. She had heard from Pei JianGuo that Wang Yue was in charge of Old Pei''s wages, so Wang Yue must have quite a bit of savings.


    She and her son were harmed like this. No amount of money couldpensate for that.


    If she hadn''t been afraid of asking for too much that might not be possible, Guo Momo really wanted Wang Yue topensate her to the point of begging for food.


    Of course, Wang Yue had not wanted to pay either. Then Pei Shuangshuang would have to face the consequences. Guo Momo would still make a scene at their workce. A barefoot man is not afraid of those wearing shoes. She had already ended up like this, with future fertility also bing an issue. They might as well die together without anyone getting off easy.


    She had already gotten the money, but these past few days, she also clearly felt the change in attitude of Pei''s family.


    It was as if because she had taken money, she deserved to endure this treatment. Even Pei Jianguo was impatient and said she was greedy.


    Zhi Xia patted Guo Momo on the shoulder and said, "Don''t pay attention to what others say. Let''s just live our own good lives. I actually think you''re very brave to stand up for yourself. Momo, you have to know that if everyone around you is unreliable, the only one you can rely on is yourself. You''re not alone now. You still have your child. You can only be stronger."


    Guo Momo finally couldn''t hold back her sobs, because this was the first person who understood her since the incident happened.


    Even her own family would only think of ways to take advantage of the situation for their own benefit.


    The child had been in the ICU for a few days and was now out, but still couldn''t make any sounds. The doctor said it was possible the vocal cords were underdeveloped. Such defects brought about by an underdeveloped mother are generally irreparable afterward.


    In this day and age, very few would choose treatment for defective children like this. It was practically up to luck whether they would survive.


    The treatment these past few days had cost quite a bit of money.


    Zhi Xia went to see the child. Compared to when he was born, at least he looked a little more like a baby now. His features and skin had improved a lot, but he was still thin and small.


    Pei Jianguo came after work and saw Zhi Xia when he entered. He didn''t say anything. It was obvious to see he had also be haggard these days.


    Sister Zhang had just returned with food she bought from outside. Seeing Pei Jianguo, she said, "Jianguo, the baby''s milk powder is used up. Do you think we should buy some more?"


    Guo Momo was so weak herself after giving birth that she barely had any energy left, let alone breastfeed. They could only give the baby form.


    Pei Jianguo opened his mouth hesitantly. "Sister Zhang, milk powder is hard to buy. You''ve raised children so have experience. Can you give us some suggestions on what we can supplement it with to feed him?"


    Even poor families'' children can live drinking rice gruel, but this child was already premature at birth and looked weak. She didn''t dare suggest anything rash. "I don''t know either. I breastfed my two kids. They didn''t eat anything else."


    Pei Jianguo sighed. "Alright then, I''ll try to think of another way."


    Zhi Xia listened withoutment. She thought Pei Jianguo should have other difficulties.


    If it was simply a matter of milk powder being hard to buy, everyone knew about feeding the triplets form. Even if he was too embarrassed to ask her, he should be able to ask Pei Jing.


    Guo Momo naturally wasn''t stupid enough to miss what even Zhi Xia understood.


    As soon as Sister Zhang left, Guo Momo asked Pei Jianguo, "Pei Jianguo, what do you mean by that? He''s your own son. After what your mother and sister did to make him like this, you''re now reluctant to even let him have milk powder to drink, right?"


    Pei Jianguo rubbed his brows in annoyance. "Can you stop misinterpreting my words? Have you gone to buy milk powder before? Do you know how expensive milk powder is? One bucket is four, five yuan and still needs milk powder tickets, plus there''s rationing. Since you''re not willing to take out money to ask from my mother, where is it so easy to buy?"


    Guo Momo was so angry she gasped sharply for breath.


    It wasn''t that she was unwilling to spend money on her son. She just wanted to save it for when it would be more useful.


    The doctor said the child was premature. Ill health would be unavoidable in the future, plus his vocal cords were underdeveloped so he possibly wouldn''t be able to speak in the future. If she didn''t save some fallback money, how would they get by in the future?


    Pei Yong entered from the doorway and said solemnly, "The child will drink milk powder. Jianguo, give your sry to Momoter on. If it''s not enough, I''ll pay for it."


    There''s regret when money runs short only when needed. He had thought his daughter would be taken care of by Wang Yue before so gave all his money to her. Now thest thing he probably regretted was doing that.


    Since Pei Yong was willing to help, this naturally resolved the problem.


    These past few days, Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang had been living cautiously on tenterhooks until theypensated Guo Momo. Only then was a huge weight finally lifted off their chests, but simrly, losing such arge sum of money at once felt even more heartwrenching to Wang Yue than having her heart gouged out.


    When Wang Yue got off work and returned home, she discovered Pei Yong smoking outside the door.


    She walked up and asked, "What are you doing here?"


    Pei Yong nced at the door then looked around at the neighbors peering over at them from time and time again. He said, "I''m here to talk to you about something. Let''s go inside."


    This was the first time Pei Yong had taken the initiative to be alone with her these past few years. A different kind of feeling suddenly welled up in Wang Yue''s heart.


    But before she even opened the door to go in, she heard Pei Yong say, "I came to tell you from now on I''ll be responsible for Jianguo. Don''t interfere with their marriage anymore."


    Wang Yue''s heart instantly cooled. "Pei Yong, on what basis can you say that? Don''t forget, we agreed on the divorce that both children would be with me."


    "There''s a saying, ''Marry an unsuitable daughter-inw, and three generations will suffer.'' From me to my son and grandson, isn''t that enough?" Pei Yong said coldly with a sneer. "You''ve always said I owe you. I acknowledge that, but let me tell you, you''ve made me hate your sess, hate your whole family for meddling. If I had known I would marry you, I really should have died back then! Wang Yue, you alone have turned your entire Wang family''s contribution to sess into soliciting favor and repayment, into disgusting sin."


    These were the harshest words Pei Yong had said in so many years.


    Just because she disliked Guo Momo, his grandson was born mute and weak as a little kitten.

 Chapter 281: A Simple Funeral

    <h4>Chapter 281</h4>


    Killing Pei JianGuo was the most painful thing for Wang Yue. Saying this was undoubtedly stabbing knives into her heart.


    She just wanted to teach Guo Momo a lesson, she really didn''t intend to harm the child, and didn''t expect that both of them would suddenly lose control and take action.


    That was also her grandson, so she naturally felt distressed as well.


    But now that things hade to this, anything more said would be redundant.


    Summer sunlight was always scorching hot. Guo Momo was finally discharged from hospital and returned home, but still needed someone to take care of her.


    Sister Zhang now had to take care of two people alone. She ran back and forth several times a day. Fortunately the distance was not too far, otherwise even with extra pay she would not be able to withstand it.


    Fortunately Mrs. Zhou coulde and help take care of the children, and she was close to the Old Master and Old Madam, so Zhi Xia was not busy to the point of not being able to stand still.


    Zhi Xia had been paying attention to Old Pei''s health all along, asking him to go to the hospital for regr checkups, and the medicinal pills she stewed to nourish him had never been discontinued.


    She thought there would be no more major issues, but after going through so many upsetting things, he still could not make it through in the end.


    In September, he could only lie in bed and was unable to move. Zhi Xia secretly gave him some Life Water, but it did not work.


    Pei Yong and Pei Jing had already returned, but Old Pei was still unwilling to go to the hospital. An ZhiXian could only run back and forth two or three times a day.


    After another diagnosis, An ZhiXian called them all outside. ��Old Pei is afraid he only has a couple more days left.��


    Pei Yong was shocked and confused. ��Isn��t there any other way? The old man had been healthy all this time, how could he suddenly...��


    "Old Pei is very old. For people his age, it��s all about mentality...�� An ZhiXian sighed and couldn��t continue what she wanted to say.


    The Pei family was going through turbulent times, especially Pei JianGuo, whose affairs had consumed too much of Old Pei''s energy. Adding to that was the newborn child who was now confirmed to have underdeveloped vocal cords��to put it bluntly, he was mute.


    The old man had worried himself to death.


    Pei Yong felt very bad. He felt that it was because his whole family was not sensible and did not let Old Pei enjoy his old age in peace.


    Pei Jing also felt terrible. He was clearly aware that the old man didn''t have much time left this year, so he had been especially attentive all this while, thinking Old Pei could make it through peacefully, but unexpectedly, he still couldn''t make it past this catastrophe that was bound toe.


    Zhi Xia was already secretly in her space.


    Petite Rich Lady: "Little elf, can the Life Water rejuvenate vitality?"


    Magic Little Elf: ��Then maybe he just didn''t want to live anymore. Did your father have any particrly vexing issues troubling him?"


    Humans are not like nts. The Life Water can rejuvenate vitality, but the user also has to want to live.


    If someone is determined to die, then it will have no effect.


    Although she had already guessed this, hearing it confirmed by the little elf, Zhi Xia didn''t know what to say.


    The Pei family''s habit of avoiding issues clearly ran in the genes.


    She thought it was only Pei Yong and Pei JianGuo, but she didn''t expect that Old Pei was like this even at such an old age.


    Didn��t he think that if he were alive, he could at least provide some protection for Guo Momo and her son, but once dead, there would truly be nothing left.


    When she exited the space, she suddenly heard crying sounds from outside.


    Zhi Xia��s heart skipped a beat. She rushed out anxiously and opened the door.


    Pei Jing came out with red eyes. He told her, "Dad is gone."


    Unconsciously, Zhi Xia''s fingers clenched tightly. Old Pei did not escape this time, so what about the grandmother who was going to cause trouble at his funeral?


    At this moment, when Zhi Xia looked into Pei Jing''s eyes, they both knew what was going to happen.


    Because they were avoiding superstitions, the funeral arrangements were simple without any fanfare, so they also earned praise from senior leaders.


    It wasn''t until the whole thing was over that the old madam did not have any idents. Only then did Zhi Xia finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    The old madam''s catastrophe had passed. It was just that the old master''s spirit was very low. After all, he and Old Pei were very close. The two old men were sworn brothers, their rtionship even closer than a married couple.


    Now that one had suddenly left, the other would inevitably feel bad.


    Fortunately, as time went by, the old master also cheered up again.


    Sister Zhang held Little Sixth for half a day before handing him to Zhi Xia.


    "After serving Old Pei for so many years, watching these children grow up, suddenly leaving them, I really feel somewhat reluctant to part." Sister Zhang said with tears in her eyes, but in her heart she understood, reluctant or not, she had to leave them.


    Now that Old Pei had passed away, as his nanny she would also be reassigned to take care of other leaders who needed her. It��s just that taking care of another family may notpare to the stable and cozy life here with the Peis.


    Zhi Xia wanted her to stay too, but Pei Jing''s position wasn��t low enough to need a nanny yet.


    Zhi Xia gave Sister Zhang a big red envelope. "Sister Zhang, thank you too for taking care of us for such a long time. Come by often to see us when you have time.��


    ��Of course, of course." Sister Zhang nodded repeatedly.


    After Sister Zhang left, Zhi Xia closed the door. Pei Jing had also returned to his troop a few days ago. Suddenly the house felt a lot more deste.


    Zhi Xia looked around for Yuan Bao but couldn��t find it. She knew Wanqing must have taken him out again to y with her little friends.


    By the time they came back, the sky was already dark.


    Mrs. Zhou knocked on the door and came in. ��Zhi Xia, the old madam said that with you taking care of so many kids at mealtimes alone, it��s probably not easy. She said from now on you shouldn''t cook anymore, just bring the kids over to eat there."


    "I know, thanks Mrs. Zhou. I��ll go overter. You go back first. I''ve prepared the ingredients for dinner in the kitchen, so I won��t be going over tonight. You guys go ahead and eat first.��


    She didn''t actually n on going next door to eat, but she understood that it wouldn��t work to decline Mrs. Zhou. She would have to personally tell the old madam.


    She just boiled some water symbolically in the kitchen. The food was all prepared by robot maids in her space.


    The twins could take care of themselves and even help take care of their younger brother. Zhi Xia originally thought that taking care of the children alone would be tiring, but unexpectedly, after the children knew that grandfather had passed away and Sister Zhang had left, they suddenly became much more sensible and took on the responsibility of being older siblings willingly. They supervised their younger brother instead of only thinking of sneaking out to y like before.


    And sometimes when Zhi Xia could see that they wanted to go out and y, she would let the triplets and Little Sixth into her space.


    Now the only upants in this house were her and the children. She didn''t have to worry about keeping up appearances or being overheard by others.


    After dinner, Zhi Xia tidied up the table cleanly and put all the bowls and chopsticks directly into her space to be washed by the robot maids.


    The children were all in the space bedroom listening to stories. She went next door after closing the door.


    Mrs. Zhou had already returned home. The old master was reading the newspapers and the old madam was listening to the radio.


    As soon as Zhi Xia came in, the old madam beckoned her to sit down.


    "Zhi Xia, the stuff buried in your backyard, did your dad mention them to you before he passed away?" This question was from the old master.


    Zhi Xia nodded. "I''ve heard about it."


    Hadn��t they said those things were left for her?


    Right before dinner, Zhi Xia had let Yuan Bao go over and directly burrow into the ground, taking everything into her space. She still hadn''t had the chance to check what exactly those things were yet.


    The old master continued. ��We didn��t tell you originally because we were afraid you young people might let things slip, but now since your dad is also gone and the house belongs to you, it''s time to let you know. What was buried down there was originally your aunt''s dowry that your grandfather prepared. After your aunt passed away it was buried there. Your grandma and I discussed leaving the things for you."


    Whether it was the old master or the old madam, it could be considered leaving a keepsake.


    ��Then thank you grandpa and grandma. I will protect those things well." Now that those things were already in her space, refusing would just make her seem too hypocritical.

 Chapter 282: The Decision

    <h4>Chapter 282</h4>


    ��By the way, I asked Mrs. Zhou to tell you to bring the kids over for dinnerst night. Howe you didn''te over? You can''t still be standing on ceremony with Old Madam, can you?�� Old Madam looked at her impatiently, her gaze full of resentment.


    Knowing that this was what she had originallye to talk about, Xia slid over to sit next to Old Madam and hugged her arm coquettishly, ��Granny, don��t you know me well? When have I ever stood on ceremony with you? I came over today to talk about this too. If you want me and the kids toe over and apany you anytime, just say the word. As for eating together, I��d rather not if I can manage. If it ever gets to be too much for me, I��ll speak up myself without you having to tell me. Just don��tin that I''m bothering you when the timees.��


    Old Madam''s face darkened. "Are you afraid of upsetting your sisters-inw?"


    She was not like Zhou Nan. Old Madam had lived her whole life only seeing people try to get on her good side.


    Even after all these years Zhou Nan had been married into the family, she only enjoyed Old Madam��s high opinion because of her years of hard work and service.


    As for her daughters-inw, who would dare upset her? She would make life difficult for anyone who tried.


    She had told Zhou Nan long ago that grandchildren have their own fortune and not to get too involved with the young ones�� affairs.


    Especially with many sons, helping everyone would be too much, and what seemed fine now might go awry in the end.


    But Zhou Nan never listened, always saying that she was still able while the children had it hard, so she should help however she could.


    Old Madam had no power over her, so she stopped interfering.


    Seeing that Old Madam had misunderstood, Xia quickly shook her head. ��It��s not because of others. I know Granny cares for me, but I��m a grown woman now.��


    Old Master spoke up from the side. ��If the child doesn��t want to, don��t force her. We live close by, so if she doesn��t want to cook she can just call out ande over anytime.��


    Only then did Old Madam relent. Xia stayed and chatted for a while before heading home.


    ......


    The news that the high school entrance exam was being reinstated had already spread through streets and alleys since October 21, 1977. Radios, loudspeakers, televisions; they were all broadcasting the joyous news.


    The streets were filled with people cheering and celebrating, newspapers sold out everywhere.


    Xia turned off the radio at home, a delighted smile on her face.


    Guo Momo ran in holding Little PingAn, shouting as soon as she entered, ��Auntie, did you hear? They��re bringing back the college entrance exam!��


    Little PingAn was still the name Xia had jokingly suggested. Pei JianGuo had named the child Pei Yuhao, but Xia said it would be better to call him PingAn (peaceful and safe), hoping the child would have a smooth path ahead.


    Guo Momo also liked it, so that��s what they called him.


    In that other life, Old Pei had pressured Pei JianGuo to name his son, but this life no one was forcing him and he still chose Pei Yuhao.


    It wasn��t that it was a bad name, just that in that other life they didn��t know about, the three characters Pei Yuhao bore too much pain. An unwee birth and a childhood amidst family conflicts became lifelong wounds he couldn��t heal.


    And the original Pei Yuhao was now the doted on Pei Chenyou with both parents and siblings who loved him. The past tragedy would not be repeated.


    ��I heard it. I had just turned off the radio when you rushed in,�� Xia pped her hands at Little PingAn and took him into her arms before asking Guo Momo, ��What is it? Are you nning to take the college entrance exam too?��


    The smile on Guo Momo��s face turned bitter as she looked sadly at Little PingAn. ��I do want to take it, but the child...��


    Not only could Little PingAn not speak, the already two-and-a-half-year-old still couldn��t stand or walk on his own at all,pletely dependent on others.


    Guo Momo had never been someone to resign herself to her circumstances, but reality had forced her to lower her head.


    Pei JianGuo was unreliable as well. His guilt had made him treat them well at first, but now he was growing increasingly intolerant of Little PingAn. Guo Momo could feel it even if he never said anything, but she didn��t dare poke holes lest he stop providing for them.


    At least Old Pei��s words still made Pei JianGuo support them financially. Her son��s grandfather also helped out often. Even after Pei JianGuo��s sry was enough after Little PingAn was weaned, she didn��t refuse, thinking of their future.


    Saving more money was never a bad idea.


    Xia felt bad for Little PingAn as well, doing her best to give him better food and supplies these past two years, but the congenital condition was difficult to cure.


    Fortunately the things weren��tpletely useless either. Other than the inability to speak and walk, Little PingAn was a very clever child, able to express his emotions and needs through simple gestures.


    She figured there shouldn��t be too big an issue with the boy��s legs. After all he could stand on his own and crawl slowly. He likely just started walkingter than normal children.


    Compared to Little PingAn, Pei Chenyou who was only one or two months older could run and jump and chatter up a storm, making Guo Momo envious every time she saw him while deepening her hatred for Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang.


    Her own son should have been lively like other children if not for them harming him. Yet they still had the gall to look down on him!


    Old Pei had only told Wang Yue to stop bothering Pei JianGuo in the future, but the bond between mother and child was one that couldn��t be severed. Other than the initial period of me, Pei JianGuo still chose to forgive his mother and sister in the end.


    Guo Momo had even overheard Wang Yue poisoning Pei JianGuo against her recently, saying Guo Momo was infertile while PingAn was a mute cripple, telling Pei JianGuo to divorce Guo Momo and marry someone else instead.


    Guo Momo had chased Wang Yue out with a broom then and gone straight to the hospital Wang Yue worked at to kick up a row. It got Wang Yue a demerit but also gave Guo Momo a reputation as a harridan.


    After thinking for a bit, Xia still gently advised her, ��The college entrance exam is a rare opportunity. If you really have the ability and desire, it would be best not to give up. And if it works out this time, with workers and sent-down youth both eligible, there will definitely be people bringing children to ss when admitted. Little PingAn is so obedient, it won��t be an issue for you to bring him along.��


    Indeed, as Xia said, many of the students admitted in the first college entrance exam brought children to ss. Children over two years old were reasonably well-behaved, and the mute Little PingAn certainly wouldn��t be disruptive.


    Pei JianGuo was unreliable. Marrying him hadn��t improved Guo Momo��s life one bit, thoroughly demonstrating that living poorly wasn��t all the wife��s fault. He bore greater responsibility himself.


    Guo Momo still needed to establish herself to ensure their future.


    ��Really? Can I... Can I really?�� Guo Momo didn��t disbelieve her. She just didn��t dare believe.


    Every time she thought her fortune had turned, reality always revealed she was on the way to another hell instead.


    If she could turn back time now, she would probably rather have gone down to the countryside than married Pei JianGuo.


    She didn��t regret it. She hurt for her child.


    ��If you really want to give it a try, wait until I can find a chance to ask my second brother. He understands more than us,�� Xia said.


    ��Thanks for helping ask around for me then, Auntie.�� Hope rekindled in Guo Momo��s heart. ��Oh yes, if possible, could you also help ask if there are any spare high school textbooks and review materials? It��s been years since I graduated. No idea how much I still remember.��


    Luckily she had been a good student back then, always seeking knowledge to change her fate. So while the other students were out and about, she was earnestly studying. She would even ask teachers privately when she didn��t understand something. All her teachers had liked her a lot.


    Indeed, Guo Momo was an extremely hardworking student. Unfortunately, whether in the past or present, her progress was always shackled by her family circumstances.


    Xia said, ��Sure, there��s a set of high school textbooks on my desk that my second brother got for me to read a couple years ago. I finished them long ago. Go ahead and take a look if you need.��


    ��Auntie, are you nning to take the college entrance exam too?�� she even wondered if Xia had known about it early on. Otherwise why start preparing years ago?


    However, Pei JianGuo had also mentioned a few sentences, saying that little aunt had never been to school before, and had only gone to literacy sses for a few days.


    But she didn''t think so. She often came over and often saw ZhiXia reading and writing, so even if she hadn''t been to school before, she must have studied hardter.


    "Of course, this is a great opportunity, and I also want to take the opportunity to improve my education level, so that I won''t always beughed at for never having been to school." ZhiXiaughed at herself self-deprecatingly. In recent years, she had heard such words quite a lot, especially when she went out with Pei Jing, many people pointed at them from behind and said, "Look, that''s Old Pei''s third son. His wife was brought back by the An family. I heard that she hadn''t even gone to school in the countryside and couldn''t recognize a single character. Apart from having a pretty face and being able to give birth, I don''t know what Pei''s third son saw in her."


    At this point, ZhiXia couldn''t help feeling d that at least she had a decent face and looked quite good, and could still be praised by others for being pretty.


    As for being able to give birth, that really wasn''t something within human control.


    "That''s great, then we can review together, and I can also..." She was about to say that her grades were good before, and she could teach her, but she remembered that little aunt had already finished high school textbooks, and probably already understood what she didn''t know.


    After all, the An family had two high school teachers, and she heard that little uncle was also an outstanding student. She was notcking people to teach her.

 Chapter 283: Must Hold Up

    <h4>Chapter 283</h4>


    The twins had entered elementary school this summer, the same school where Liu Ling taught, which was close by and convenient since Liu Ling was their teacher and it was reassuring.


    The three-and-a-half-year-old triplets were at the age where they yed wildly all day, and the just over two-year-old Little Sixth followed his older brothers around all day so that even Zhi Xia couldn''t find them when it wasn''t meal time.


    "Momo, I made somemb for hot pot tonight, don''t rush off, stay and eat with Little PingAn," Zhi Xia was quite nice to Guo Momo, who felt it deeply herself.


    Knowing that Zhi Xia had actually invited her, Guo Momo readily agreed, "Sure, my son and I will mooch a meal, I''ll help wash vegetablester."


    She wouldn''tpete with her sister-inw for cooking, although she could cook too, but the taste was worlds apart. She wouldn''t ruin themb that had been painstakingly obtained.


    The twins came home with schoolbags on their backs, and delicious aromas were already wafting from the house.


    The siblings were much easier to tell apart now, with the brother a full half head taller than his sister. At Zhi Xia''s urging, Wanqing had also grown out her hair, which could just be tied into two little braids at the back.


    "Mom, what delicious thing did you make?" Wanqing still had that slightly wild personality, unlike her more steady older brother.


    She flung her schoolbag onto the table and raced into the kitchen, "Sister-inw is here too, where''s Little PingAn?"


    She knew that if Guo Momo came over, little PingAn would definitely havee along too.


    "PingAn is ying in the toy room," Zhi Xia told her, "go do your homework first, dinner will be ready soon."


    "I know, I don''t have much homework. I''ll go see PingAn first and do my homework after eating," Wanqing said and raced off before Zhi Xia could respond.


    "This girl, she just gets harder to manage as she grows up," Zhi Xiaughed, clearly not angry.


    Luckily Chenye was quite self-disciplined, and he took charge of Wanqing''s homework even though they were in the same ss. Otherwise Zhi Xia would be hopping mad.


    "Kids should be lively like that to seem like kids. If she were really so obedient and did whatever you told her, you''d be worryingter on," Guo Momo said enviously as she watched. She wished so badly that her little PingAn could be that lively and she could happily go wild.


    Soon there came Wanqing''s annoyed yelling from outside, "Brother, so annoying, do you have to be in charge of everything?"


    Chenye calmly reasoned with her, and eventually Wanqing conceded defeat and went to do her homework.


    By dinner time, she had finished it neatly, under the supervision of Zhi Xia and her brother.


    The hot pot had just been brought to the table when the triplets came running in with Little Sixth, seeming to be wearing doggy noses that could smell food. Da Huang followed behind with Yuan Bao sitting on his back, quite the amusing sight that everyone was now used to.


    Zhi Xia fished out some meat first and made a separate bowl for Yuan Bao, cing it on a small bench. Da Huang was less fussy and had already snuck under the table waiting for bones.


    "Sister-inw, your Yuan Bao really is strange. A rat that looks quite pretty, and it has to have its own bowl for food instead of eating off the floor. It''s as clever as a human," Guo Momo said interestedly. By contrast, Da Huang was still just a dog despite growing up in the same household, truly odd.


    "Yuan Bao is my little brother," Little Sixth piped up matter-of-factly before Zhi Xia could reply.


    "Yuan Bao was born earlier than you, shouldn''t it be your big brother?" Guo Momo teased him yfully.


    "He''s my little brother," Little Sixth wasn''t eating neatly. He fished out some meat and squatted next to Yuan Bao to eat.


    They both sat on the small bench, eating their separate foods. Little Sixth would add vegetables to Yuan Bao''s bowl with a spoon.


    Guo Momo smiled and asked again, "Yuan Bao must be three now? Male or female? It would be great if it could have cute little baby Yuan Baos since it''s so pretty itself. I could get one for PingAn too then."


    PingAn sat next to her, looking about Little Sixth''s age but unable to hold things steadily himself, needing to be hand fed.


    Zhi Xia noticed that when Guo Momo said this, Yuan Bao, who had been eating, suddenly bristled all over.


    "Yuan Bao is male. Maybe because ordinary rats are too ugly, I''ve never seen it bring a mate back," Zhi Xia said.


    They used to see big ck rats at home before, but Yuan Bao had driven them all away. Their household had found Yuan Bao more useful than a cat.


    "True, other than Yuan Bao I''ve never seen a rat like it," Guo Momo mused, remembering her first impression of Yuan Bao, sort of yellowish fur, but now snowy white and long-haired, looking cute when it asionally bristled up. It truly made it easy to overlook that it was actually a rat.


    Most bizarre was that this rat had good hygiene. She had witnessed many times Yuan Bao obediently letting Chenye bathe it, clearly enjoying itself as it closed its eyes blissfully, and she''d heard that it would even bare its teeth to have them brushed.


    The meal ended amid chatting andughter, and Guo Momo cleaned up Little PingAn and handed him to Zhi Xia before washing up and sweeping the floor spick and span.


    As time went on, they had gained some understanding of one another.


    Although Guo Momo sometimes gave off the impression of being a little greedy and scheming, she was actually quite a good girl at heart, not a bad sort that provoked extreme dislike.


    Especially after marrying Pei JianGuo, her experiences had cloaked her with an aura of pitifulness that easily evoked sympathy, making it simple for people to warm up to her unconsciously.


    The afternoon had still been clear, but clouds stealthily veiled the moon after dinner.


    "Is it going to rain now? Then I have to hurry home with PingAn," Guo Momo looked bewilderedly at the sky and prepared to leave with PingAn.


    Zhi Xia stopped her, "Take an umbre in case it does suddenly rain, it''s awful getting soaked."


    Fortunately the sky wasn''t fully dark yet, though Pei JianGuo would have gotten off work by now too.


    It wasn''t only Guo Momo who sensed his change. Others could perceive it too.


    Although Old Pei had passed on and Guo Momo still often came over with PingAn,st year Pei JianGuo would oftene pick them up after work. But this year, especially thetter half, he hardly ever showed up.


    When Guo Momo got home, Pei JianGuo had already eaten alone, the empty bowls still sitting unwashed on the table.


    She had been weak postpartum and without family cooking, so Pei JianGuo had taken over washing and cooking out of guilt at the time. His first attempt at cooking had given him blisters from scalding his hands. Naively, Guo Momo had thought then that though wed, this man could still be redeemed.


    But now, her thoughts were different.


    A marriage was like slowly burning away the passion of courtship until the couple became cooperative partners, working together for their child.


    And in their home, it seemed that he had started to give up on PingAn because the child wasn''t healthy.


    Guo Momo didn''t know how long this could continue, but for now she and PingAn still depended on Pei JianGuo''s support. Her body was too damaged for her to likely have another child, while Pei JianGuo could easily divorce her and find another woman to bear him many healthy children.


    Guo Momo could only hope he still had some conscience, so she didn''t darein. Gently handing PingAn to Pei JianGuo, she guided him to y with their son while she took the chance to wash up the bowls and pots during that time.


    Whenever she felt hopeless about life, it made her inner resolve stronger - no one else would hold up the sky for her and PingAn. She could only rely on herself.

 Chapter 284: Reason for Dismissal

    <h4>Chapter 284</h4>


    The night was as dark as ink, with fine rain like silk threads, adding a touch of chill to this cold winter day.


    When I first opened the door in the morning, I was greeted by a stretch of snowy whiteness covering the roof and the ground.


    The twins were already prepared to go to school, while the younger ones were reluctant to get up because of the cold.


    But upon hearing that it had snowed, each poked their heads out from their quilts, scrambling to get dressed first.


    Winter clothes were too thick and they had to wear them one piece over another. Their little hands and feet couldn��t cope, so Sister Zhi could only patiently serve these little lords.


    Having just put on their clothes and gotten off the bed, they scrambled to rush out the door.


    Sixth Brother identally fell to the ground. Luckily the thick snow cushioned his fall instead of hurting him. On the contrary, he found it fun.


    He secretly grabbed a snowball and pitifully called out to Fourth Brother, who was closest to him, ��Fourth Brother, my butt hurts and I can��t get up.��


    Pei Xiaosi disdainfully came over to pull him up,ining, ��You��re so clumsy. Don��t you know to be more careful?��


    Little did he expect that the moment Little Six stood up, a snowball was tucked into Pei Chenan''s cor, chilling him into shuddering violently.


    ��Pei Chenyou, you''ve got guts. Don��t run...��


    By the time he shouted this out, Little Six had already scurried to hide behind Third Elder Brother, faster than a rabbit. When Fourth Brother caught up, he decisively pulled Third Elder Brother in front of him to hide.


    Their noisy voices filled the yard, chirping noisily. The few children threw snowballs at each other.


    Pei Chenyou was the youngest, so he was definitely at a disadvantage ying with them. But he had a sweet tongue, calling his brothers sweetly one moment and taking advantage of their mercy to cause trouble the next.


    Fortunately the triplets acted quite like elder brothers. Even though he angered them to the point of jumping in anger, they were clearly still doting on him.


    Sister Zhi stood at the doorway, smiling radiantly as she watched this scene.


    After they had yed enough, the originally t snow ground was simply trampled as if ravaged by pigs.


    Once breakfast was ready for them to eat, Sister Zhi picked up a shovel to shovel the yard of snow and piled it in the corner.


    Mrs Zhou came over just as she finished.


    ��The old madam wanted me toe over and help you shovel snow, but you��ve already finished it all.�� Mrs Zhou said with a smile.


    Sister Zhi: ��I��ve troubled you toe over specially for nothing. There wasn��t much to do and I handled it myself. Don��t listen to Grandma next time. She dotes on me too much and always worries that I can��t handle things.��


    ��You��re right. Sister Zhi is much more capable than we thought.�� Over the past few years of raising a few children, it was not easy for anyone, yet she had taken good care of them and taught them to be well-behaved.


    As Mrs Zhou turned to leave, already nearing the main gate, she suddenly recalled something and turned back. ��Sister Zhi, let me ask you something. You don��t have to feel I''m prying.��


    Sister Zhi: ��Sister Zhou, it hasn��t just been a day since we met. We��ve never stood on ceremony before. Why start now?��


    Hearing this, Mrs Zhou��s initial apprehension instantly disappeared. ��I met Sister Zhang on the streets a few days ago. The daughter-inw of the family she worked for used her of having sticky fingers. Sister Zhang took care of Old Pei for so many years and nothing like this ever happened before. So I thought there might be some misunderstanding. Now that you have to raise several children alone, things aren��t watched as closely as before. Do you need someone to help out? I only suggested this because I know Sister Zhang is having a difficult time. If this isn��t your intention, just pretend I never brought it up.��


    She shouldn��t have mentioned this as one shouldn��t falsely use others without reason.


    But the more she thought about it, the more she felt that Sister Zhang wasn��t that sort of person. Otherwise when she served at the Pei family for so many years, Wang Yue wouldn��t have found no fault in her either.


    Sister Zhi did not immediately agree, but instead asked her, ��Sister Zhou, did Sister Zhang ask you to inquire my opinion?��


    ��No no, I brought this up myself,�� Mrs Zhou quickly shook her head. ��I even told herst time not to bother you. But she still refused toe to you, afraid that she would be imposing.��


    ��I understand. Thank Mrs Zhou for informing me. Please send my regards to Grandfather and Grandmother when you go back.�� Sister Zhi answered nonmittedly.


    After the children finished their meals, Sister Zhi called them over. ��Chen Ze, Mom is going out for a bit. Take your brothers to your maternal grandfather��s house to y. Don''t run around unsupervised, understand?��


    "Understood Mom, have a nice trip."


    Having received his promise, Sister Zhi changed into loafers and took an umbre before leaving the house.


    She deliberately passed by the Old Master''s house to inform him.


    Sister Zhi knew where Sister Zhang lived but had never been there.


    Sister Zhang''s living environment in this tenement building was not the best. Pots and pans for cooking were piled on the walkway outside, forcing Sister Zhi to ask an elder sister for Sister Zhang��s exact address.


    The door was not closed. Sister Zhi called out at the doorway, ��Is anyone home?��


    ��Coming!�� The familiar voice was not as cheerful and confident as before. Instead, it seemed weak and feeble.


    Sister Zhang walked out and was shocked to see Sister Zhi. ��Sister Zhi, why have youe here? Please,e in to talk.��


    ��Sister Zhang, I came specifically to see you,�� Sister Zhi said as she walked inside. With one look she noticed the living room. Not big with a square table. One corner was sectioned off with curtains for sleeping. The house only had two bedrooms.


    But Sister Zhi knew that Sister Zhang had three children, probably all in their teens now.


    Although it seemed cramped, the house was spotless and tidy with items arranged properly. One look and you could tell thedy of the house was neat and efficient.


    For a long time after she left the Pei family, Sister Zhang would often visit them. Having cared for the little ones for some time, parting would definitely be reluctant.


    But over the past year or so, her visits dwindled. Sister Zhi was unclear about her circumstances but still willing to believe that Sister Zhang��s hands were clean.


    Otherwise with Sister Zhang handling the shopping, cooking and chores under Old Pei who didn''t care to manage household affairs, she could have pocketed a lot had she been so inclined.


    There was also the excess fabric from making clothes and shoes for the children that she would sort and prepare for Sister Zhi to handle. This showed that she was not money grubbing.


    Of course, Sister Zhi gave her things too which she epted as rightfully earned through herbor.


    ��Sister Zhang, I heard from Sister Zhou that you don��t have work at the moment?��


    ��That Xiaozhou, I told her not to bother you but she refuses to listen.�� Sister Zhang gave a bitter smile while trying to appear fine. ��It��s true I don��t have work. Since Sister Zhou has told you about me, you should know what happened. Sister Zhi, I know you��re kind hearted but I can��t take advantage of you either. Given my circumstances now, I��m not suited to be a nanny anymore.��


    She knew Sister Zhou meant well too, having dealt closely over the years when both family patriarchs were on good terms. Naturally there was some rapport.


    But with her reputation now, she didn��t wish to embarrass the former employers she still held in high regard.


    ��Sister Zhang, I��ll just ask you directly. Did you really take their things?�� Sister Zhi asked her.


    ��Of course not. I��ve been a nanny for years and took good care of Old Pei without incident or sticky fingers. I��ve never done anything inappropriate,�� Sister Zhang said aggrievedly on the verge of tears. ��Sister Zhi let me confess something withoutughing at me. The daughter-inw used me of seducing their old patriarch. That old man''s nearly eighty! Isn��t that insulting? If I didn��t admit to stealing, she threatened to spread rumors so I would truly have no face left.��


    She really had no choice but to admit to something she didn''t do while holding her nose.


    This was because before this, the daughter-inw had gifted her a silk handkerchief. She imed it was purchased from Haicheng and considered it valuable enough to show her gratitude for Sister Zhang��s hard work caring for the old master.


    As a nanny, not stealing is a matter of principles. But a reward from an employer for herbor she rightfully earned. Why refuse it?


    The handkerchief looked quite nice, so she took it back and gave it to her eldest daughter. The girl loved showing off, so she wore it out and paraded around so that everyone would know. But then people started saying that she had stolen it.


    Just because Sister Zhang served the old master well, he favored her. Yet she was almost wrongfully used. Even working diligently can make one a target.


    Up until now, her husband still believes that she was not being honest, which is why she lost her job.


    If he knew the truth, who knows what he would think of her.


    In this world, couples like Pei Jing and Zhi Xia who can unconditionally trust each other are rare, especially when ites to situations that could lead to suspicion of infidelity.


    And these past few days, he has been treating her badly over this, and their three children have had to hear gossip about their family. She feels even more upset.


    The only person Sister Zhang can confide in is Zhi Xia, because she knows Zhi Xia is a good person and won''t spread rumors.

 Chapter 285: All with This Intention

    <h4>Chapter 285</h4>


    Sister Zhang patiently listened to her finish speaking, only to realize that her experiences over this period had actually been so convoluted.


    Fortunately, she had always trusted Sister Zhang, which was why she came today.


    Zhi Xia said, "Sister Zhang, didn''t you ever think of calling the police?"


    Sister Zhang wiped her eyes and said, "How could I not have thought of it? But I don''t have any evidence. The police wouldn''t believe me either. As for that silk scarf, my eldest daughter wore it out and many people saw it. The old master I served was also suspicious of me. His daughter-inw said that if I was sensible, I should admit to it, but if I wasn''t sensible and wanted to falsely use the old master of seducing me, she would take me to the police station. We don''t have much power either. What else could I do but admit to it?"


    If there had been any way, she wouldn''t have suffered this silent grievance. This matter was truly difficult to resolve, because Sister Zhang really couldn''t prove that the silk scarf had been given to her by the family. There was no surveince footage in this day and age either.


    "Sister Zhang, no matter what others say, I definitely trust your moral character. If you''re willing, you can keeping to help me out at home. Now that the policy to restore the college entrance examination has been announced, I also want to try and improve myself. You can just stay at home and help look after my child, cook meals. We''ll give you the same treatment as when my child''s grandfather was around. What do you think?" Zhi Xia said.


    But Sister Zhang was worried. "With my reputation now, won''t it cause your family trouble?"


    "Don''t worry about that. We won''t take the initiative to meddle in other people''s affairs, but we won''t let others bully us either. Just rest assured," Zhi Xia gently reassured her.


    Under Zhi Xia��s soothing words, Sister Zhang finally nodded happily and made an appointment toe over starting tomorrow. Ever since she was falsely used, her neighbors and friends had kept their distance from her, and even her husband and children had suffered because of her. She had been hiding at home, not daring to go out, suffering cold looks all day long.


    Zhi Xia''s appearance was no doubt a lifeline to her.


    When she left, small snowkes were drifting down from the sky again.


    Zhi Xia gathered her scarf tighter around her neck. Upstairs, Sister Zhang called out to remind her to be careful on the way home. Zhi Xia responded, telling her to hurry back inside.


    As she opened her umbre, a woman nearby walked over to her doubtfully. "Comrade, are you and that woman upstairs rted?"


    The girl''s clothing and style didn''t seemcking. In this day and age, anyone who could afford to wear a wool coat must have some capabilities. She had never heard that the family had such an impressive rtive!


    "Sister Zhang used to work for my family. Now my family needs help at home. Hearing that she currently doesn''t have a job, I wanted to invite her back," Zhi Xia said deliberately.


    But unexpectedly, the woman''s eyes widened. "Aiya, you still dare to invite her? Don''t you know what she did? She stole things from the family she was working for as a nanny... "


    No matter when, there would always be annoying people who casually spread rumors.


    Zhi Xia smiled. "Sister Zhang took care of my grandfather for over 10 years without any problems arising. I believe she wouldn''t be so shameless. Comrade, please don''t spread rumors without evidence."


    "I''m not spreading rumors. The family personally identified her, and the silk scarf was caught red-handed on her. It''s not like they just randomly hung it around her neck. Yourade, I''m kindly reminding you, yet you don''t appreciate it..."


    Without asking, Zhi Xia could guess that this woman must have some grudge against Sister Zhou.


    Not wanting to argue further with her, Zhi Xia walked away. But she didn''t hurry home, instead going to the police station.


    Over the past few years, Liu Jun could be said to have risen meteorically. Dressed in his police uniform, his entire person exuded an impressive aura.


    "Officer Liu, someone''s here looking for you..."


    When Liu Jun turned around, he saw Zhi Xia standing at the door and quickly weed her inside.


    Hearing that she had something to discuss, he invited her into his office.


    "Zhi Xia, this matter really is difficult to resolve, because we don''t have evidence to prove that the nanny''s silk scarf was given by the family. Yet the family firmly insists that the nanny stole it. For matters like this, it''s best if the family doesn''t pursue it. If they insist on investigating, the nanny would have to undergo public criticism and ideological education. Since there weren''t major losses and they didn''t ask forpensation either, I advise you not to offend these people further. Otherwise if it esctes, the one eating the loss will still be the nanny."


    Although restrictions had been loosened considerably over the past two years, these types of situations still existed and hadn''t been abolished.


    Moreover, any family that could afford a nanny was definitely not just an ordinary working-ss family. It was best not to casually make enemies of them.


    If what the nanny said was true, the family probably just wanted to find a suitable reason to dismiss her, and didn''t really intend any harm. So this was already the best oue.


    The word "unjust" could be fully demonstrated no matter where, especially when there was a huge gap in status.


    Liu Jun was advising Zhi Xia not to meddle in other people''s affairs. He also didn''t want to get involved in these types of situations himself. Exerting effort wouldn''t win anyone''s favor, and it was very easy to offend others.


    Walking out of the police station, Zhi Xia sighed helplessly.


    She had already expected this kind of oue beforeing. Making this trip was just to confirm it.


    Zhi Xia also went to An Zhiren��s house. Regarding the college entrance exam, she was confident she didn��t have any problems with her knowledge, as she had been preparing all these years. But there were still some things she had to ask her Second Brother about, like details and tips for taking the exam, to give herself a better chance.


    It just so happened to be around lunch time. Zheng Suchun had just brought the dishes to the table. Turning around, she saw Zhi Xia knocking on the door toe in and jokingly said, "Did you catch a whiff of our home cooking ande looking for food? I just set the table and we haven''t eaten yet."


    Zhi Xia certainly wouldn''t stand on ceremony with her. "Of course. I happened toe mooch a meal, saving our own family some food."


    An Zhiren was holding his year-old son. His two-year-old daughter followed behind him from the room, sweetly calling "Auntie".


    Zhi Xia hurriedly caught her throwing herself over. She kissed the little girl''s face with a smile.


    Zheng Suchun had given birth to her eldest right after getting married. Not long after, she was pregnant with the second child again, so the two kids were very close in age. The second child still couldn''t walk yet. Seeing a familiar face, he babbled loudly, drool dripping down his chin.


    "Did you have time toe see me today even though it''s snowing? Didn''t the kidse with you?" Seeing here alone, An Zhiren knew without asking that she must have something to discuss.


    Zhi Xia epted the food her sister-inw dished up for her and spoke about why she hade while eating.


    "Little sister wants to take the college entrance exam too?" Zheng Suchun looked very surprised.


    But Zhi Xia noticed the "also" and looked curiously at An Zhiren. "Are you taking it too, Brother?"


    An Zhiren nodded. "It''s not just me. Your sisters-inw both have this intention too."


    Zhi Xia was stunned. Her eldest sister-inw and Second Brother were both working. Her second sister-inw had only graduated middle school.


    But it made sense after thinking about it. In others'' eyes, she herself hadn''t even stepped through a school gate before. Yet her second sister-inw had married a high school teacher. Over the past few years, with her husband''s guidance, it wasn''t strange for her to have learned high school knowledge.


    But if that was the case, Zhou Nan would probably have to work hard again.


    With two sons and four children, even if Wen Qing was older and could take care of himself, the three below were two years old, just under two, and not even one yet��they would be difficult to look after. Moreover, Zhou Nan''s health wasn''t good.


    Zhi Xia stopped her train of thought. Since her sisters-inw and Second Brother had made this decision, they must have considered it carefully. She didn''t need to worry for them.


    Before leaving after the meal, An Zhiren said she coulde over when he wasn''t working so he could tutor her properly.


    In just a few years'' time, for this little sister to self-study all the way from elementary to high school knowledge left An Zhiren extremely shocked.


    Students who properly went to ss every day didn''t necessarily learn everything well. Yet she had self-studied. Even if she asionally had some guidance, it still required extreme patience.


    This made him unable not to think that if his little sister hadn''t been swapped out at birth and had stayed to be raised in their family from childhood, what outstanding achievements could she have now.


    Perhaps she wouldn''t be any worse than him and his brothers.


    If one had to point out Zhi Xia''s only shoring, it would be in ideological understanding.


    Possibly due to her experience of the afterlife, on many matters, whether in behavior or ideology, she had great differences from people of this era. This was ingrained and not so easy to change.

 Chapter 286: There is No Soft Spot for Him.

    <h4>Chapter 286</h4>


    Sister Zhang came early the next morning. Her hair was neatly pinned at the back of her head, and her clothes were clean and tidy. She lookedpletely different than she did yesterday in spirit and appearance.


    As soon as she came in, she started tidying up the house and didn''t stop at all. Even the rooms that had been unupied for a long time were all cleaned up by her.


    ZhiXia let her use her previous room as a rest area. After all, the days were long and it was necessary to take a break when free.


    In the past, the money and ration tickets for grocery shopping were all from Old Pei. Now that he was gone, ZhiXia could only go out herself. But she would regrly bring back staples like rice, flour, oil and so on. After all, the storage had better quality than what was sold outside.


    After a whole day, the house was given apletely new look. It wasn''t dirty before, but it was hard to keep tidy with five or six children.


    With Sister Zhang here, ZhiXia waspletely at ease.


    After reviewing for a while in the afternoon and having lunch, the triplets and little six were forced to take a nap. Only then did Sister Zhang say to ZhiXia, "ZhiXia, there''s nothing else to do in the house now. I''m going next door for a bit. Coming back to this family, I still have to go over and say hello to the old master and madam."


    "Okay, go ahead. Don''t rush back. Stay and chat with grandpa and grandma for a while.��


    ZhiXia guessed that she must have a lot to talk to Mrs. Zhou about. After all, if not for Mrs. Zhou telling her, she wouldn''t have known about Sister Zhang''s situation, let alone asked her toe back.


    Zheng Suchun, who was still all smiles at their house yesterday, ran over today with red eyes.


    "Sister-inw, what''s wrong with you?" ZhiXia was startled to see her like this, thinking she had been bullied.


    In fact, she had indeed been bullied by none other than her second brother-inw.


    Zheng Suchun had quarrelled with An Zhiren. The husband and wife had been very close since their marriage. But today, because of some things, they bickered a few words and she suddenly realised that with her family being far away, she didn''t even have a ce of her own to go.


    She angrily shoved both children into his arms and wandered around by herself for a long time. The winter wind made her body stiff so she came to ZhiXia''s ce.


    She tragically found that the only person she could chat with was this little sister-inw.


    Zheng Suchun let her bangs down a little, thinking it would hide her red eyes. "It''s nothing. The wind outside was too strong and made my eyes sore."


    "Come in quickly then. I''ll make you a hot cup of tea to warm up your body," ZhiXia ushered her in without exposing her.


    Zheng Suchun held the cup and slowly sipped the hot water before she felt some warmth in her body and mind.


    "Did you have an argument with my second brother?" Since she looked better, ZhiXia tried asking tentatively.


    Zheng Suchun was three years younger than her. Although a sister-inw, ZhiXia had taken more care of her.


    "It wasn''t really an argument. I was just in a bad mood," Zheng Suchun said.


    The source of the conflict was the reinstatement of the college entrance examination.


    Zheng Suchun had put her heart into studying and inevitably neglected the two children. She discussed with An Zhiren to ask Zhou Nan for help looking after them.


    But Zhou Nan was in poor health and couldn''t handle the noise made by three children. Without a second thought, An Zhiren tly refused.


    And this was why Zheng Suchun was unhappy.


    She didn''t think Zhou Nan must help look after the children. She just felt that as both of them were daughters-inw, Liu Ling''s two children had been solely raised by him. So how could he not help them too?


    Since her marriage, aside from her postpartum month nursing period where Zhou Nan had attended to her, she had never made such demands or picked faults before. But she felt it was too unfair this time.


    It turned out ZhiXia''s worries were not excessive. The underlying discord in the An family finally erupted.


    Everyone knew well that the reason An Zhiren was able to marry Zheng Suchun was because she could take good care of the family. But Zheng Suchun''s grievances were not unfounded. A trivial issue that could disrupt harmony was bound to cause trouble sooner orter.


    Regarding this matter, ZhiXia could notment or give her any help.


    She and Zhou Nan were not originally close as a normal mother and daughter to begin with. Just maintaining the current harmony was no easy feat.


    She could provide some help when they needed it, based on Zhou Nan taking care of her these months after childbirth. But she did not want to get involved in the An family affairs, that was her true inner thoughts.


    Fortunately An Zhiren came very quickly to take Zheng Suchun away, sparing her the awkwardness.


    ZhiXia did not ask about the subsequent matters. She only knew when she went to the An residence one day and saw both of his children there, An Zhiren must havepromised in the end. Or perhaps Zhou Nan also felt it was unfair to Zheng Suchun, so she could only exhaust herself by keeping the children around.


    At that time, Zhou Nan looked haggard, as if she had just remembered and asked ZhiXia, "I heard from your second brother that you''re also taking the college entrance exam. What about the kids?"


    She seemed concerned at this time. ZhiXia thought that if she made this request, Zhou Nan might even take her several children in.


    But after all, she did not crack this joke. "I found Sister Zhang back so with her keeping an eye on them, I can rest assured."


    "That''s good that Sister Zhang is back," Zhou Nan breathed a sigh of relief.


    She didn''t know what was the matter with them. What was so great about university that ZhiXia and her sisters-inw who didn''t work wanted to try it too? She really couldn''t understand those who worked like her second brother also joining in the fun.


    What was most annoying was that An JingZhi actually said since they were willing to give it a try, just let them. Even if they couldn''t get in, there was no harm and it would be even better if they did. The country was currently in need of talents, so as the first batch of university students admitted after the reinstatement of the college entrance exam, they would have unlimited prospects after graduation.


    She didn''t understand but only knew there were benefits.


    When An JingZhi heard mother and daughter mention this topic, he calmly put down the newspaper in his hand and asked ZhiXia a question. "University is not easy to get into. You''ve never studied before, are you confident?"


    After all, ZhiXia was different from them. She was of a more prestigious status and had never attended school. Just by saying she wanted to take the college entrance exam was enough to arouse gossip already.


    "Even my second brother doesn''t dare to say he''s confident, right?" ZhiXia answered evasively.


    Whether she was confident or not, it was too early to say now. Only the exam results would tell.


    An JingZhi did not ask further and lowered his head to continue reading his newspaper.


    Zhou Nan was distressed from childcare and had been irritable. Holding the child, she stuffed him into An JingZhi''s arms, "Reading that all day long, spending your whole life with that newspaper is still not as precious. Can''t you read less and spend more time with the children?"


    An JingZhi impatiently held on properly, "I''ve said that children naturally have their own fortune. You insist on taking everything upon yourself. They''re only preparing for the exam now. If they all get admitted, it''ll be years of schooling. You can keep bringing them around then. It''s not going to kill you anyway!"


    Zhou Nan sighed, "You think I don''t want to do that? What else can I do?"


    "Everyone should bring their own children. If you can''t handle it, send them to the nursery. Other families can send their children there, why are yours so precious that they can''t?" What An JingZhi said was reasonable too. For the convenience of dual-ie families going to work, every unit had set up nurseries for specialised personnel to look after the children.


    Of course, it was limited to childcare and there were no educational resources.


    Zhou Nan was left speechless from the rebuttal and still had to be busy with her own matters.


    Some things were easy to say but not so easy to do.


    If the nurseries could really take good care of them meticulously, did they think they wouldn''t have sent them there?


    From ancient times there were only conflicts between mother-inw and daughter-inw. It was rare to hear of conflicts between father-inw and daughter-inw. Liu Ling and Zheng Suchun would only discuss childcare matters with her. They would not look for An JingZhi. If she refused, she would offend everyone.


    Seeing Zhou Nan like this, ZhiXia felt distressed for her too. "Third brother and fourth brother are not married yet. If you think like this, you are doomed to be worked to death for them."


    "So it still depends on one''s capability. You have to go out and work. No matter how much you do at home if you don''t work, no one will see it. ZhiXia, you have to study hard for the exams. Don''t be like me in future, spending your whole life being their cattle and horse without having your grandma''s wealthy family background like the madam to fall back on. I don''t have a job or your ability to speak up and decline even when my sisters-inw ask me to help look after the kids when they have things to do that I don''t want to help with."


    Zhou Nan did not dare to look up for fear that ZhiXia would see her reddened eyes.


    This was being brainwashed to excess, a typical giving personality, always feeling like the only one in the whole family with nothing to do. Now even Zheng Suchun had proper work, so she couldn''t justify not helping look after the children, which was why she didn''t dare refuse outright.


    Some people always make you feel pity and hatred in equal measure, and Zhou Nan was like this.


    "What you''re thinking is all just what you reckon yourself, your contributions to this family are no less than anyone else''s, and you have no obligation to help prop up your son who''s nearing middle age. Do you think your daughters-inw don''t see your dilemma, it''s just that people always start by standing in their own position when considering issues. It''s precisely because of your attitude that they can make the request for you to look after the children as a matter of course, they''ve grasped that you won''t refuse."


    What Know Summer said hit the nail on the head. It wasn''t as if Liu Ling and Zheng Suchun were especially unkind, of course leaving the children at home for granny to take care of was definitely better, which was why they''d turned a blind eye to Zhou Nan''s difficulties.


    Zhou Nan''s personality wasn''t one that couldn''t change at all, it was just that understanding was one thing, but being able to do it was another matter altogether.


    If she was a bit more hardhearted and didn''t care about anything, maybe she would have be the mother-inw that outsiders saw as a shrew long ago. Now she had the reputation of being a good mother-inw, but tiring herself out like this really wasn''t worth it.


    It wasn''t as if the two families couldn''t get by without her help, to the point where she had to help out or they couldn''t afford to eat.


    In the living room, An Jingzhi had no choice but to hold his little grandson and y with him, but the child peed all over him. He immediately yelled for Zhou Nan.


    Know Summer came in frowning, "She''s washing clothes outside, can''t you take a fresh nappy yourself and pad it on top?"


    An Jingzhi frowned, "My legs are wet too."


    Know Summer took a dry nappy and put it over his legs, saying: "Pad this on top and wipe the pee away, that''ll sort it. Who looks after kids without getting peed on a few times? It was over the nappy, it didn''t soak through much. Just bear with it, the weather''s good today, it''ll be dry again in a bit."


    An Jingzhi realised that mother and daughter were deliberately trying not to make things easy for him today.


    He''d bear with it then, she didn''t oftene over anyway, at least it wasn''t every day. Otherwise he really would have no peace, An Jingzhi thought.


    Seeing his stifled look, Know Summer felt very satisfied. "If you don''t want to look after the children, couldn''t you have talked to your son and daughters-inw yourself? Can you expect my mum to be very articte?"


    Also, if An Jingzhi was willing to speak up, he would carry more weight than Zhou Nan and be more likely to make people listen.


    After all he was the man of the house, his position in the family was clear. Right now Liu Ling and Zheng Suchun might fawn on Zhou Nan, but they definitely wouldn''t defy An Jingzhi.


    Even his second and third brothers said the only person in this family who dared talk back to him was her, and that was because he felt guilty over the Gao Meiyun business back then, plus she didn''t oftene back.


    An Jingzhi understood now. It turned out they were feeling sorry for Zhou Nan, so they wanted him to step up and y the bad guy.


    Yet he didn''t know Know Summer''s actions were purely because Zhou Nan had put in effort taking care of the mother who had just given birth. He hadn''t put any effort in, so any idea that she had softened towards him didn''t exist.

 Chapter 287: Reversion

    <h4>Chapter 287</h4>


    An JingZhi carefully considered that having these children at home all day long seriously affected their standard of living. Moreover, only two sons had their own families now, and there were still two more to go. When they all started their own families, there would still be many issues to resolve.


    The eldest son''s younger one was two years old now. Over these years, even though the eldest son was seldom home, they had done enough for Liu Ling.


    With An JingZhi taking the lead, this matter was easily resolved.


    Zhou Nan would help look after the children for a month. After the college entrance exam, regardless of whether they were admitted or not, each family would be responsible for their own children. Those who could handle it would do so, and those who could not would send the child to a nursery. In any case, no one in the family would help anymore.


    Zheng Suchun did not have any objection, and Liu Ling who had enjoyed the benefits for many years naturally could not object either.


    However, the issue of the children still posed a big dilemma for her. She had her own job, so whether she was admitted to college or not, it was inevitable that someone had to look after the children.


    As a result, even if she did not vocalize it, resentment towards Zheng Suchun grew in her heart. If not for her actions, the mother-inw would not have refused to care for anyone.


    Now that she did not get any benefits either, she instead lost her own privileges as well.


    At the same time, An Zhiren was also troubled and asked Zheng Suchun, "What were you trying to achieve by making a fuss? I told you that mother definitely could not handle it, we should have persevered by ourselves first. If we did get admitted, then we could think of solutions. But now look what''s happened - the issue of the children is still unresolved."


    As for the precondition they had agreed on before getting married, it was meaningless to bring it up now. They already had two children, and An Zhiren would not use it to pressure Zheng Suchun either.


    "I wasn''t trying to achieve anything, I just wanted my heart to feel better," Zheng Suchun said. "I know you all feel that eldest sister-inw has had it hard, and the family should support her. I didn''t mind this before, but do you really think eldest sister-inw doesn''t know that she''s benefited? If she had some conscience, she should have voluntarily contributed more instead of pretending to not know anything and taking advantage of us."


    "That''s because eldest brother can''t be by her side. I''m able to help out at home, our lives are not too difficult, there''s no need to calcte so finely," An Zhiren persuaded.


    "An Zhiren, I''ve been very reasonable already. It is you who are being biased," Zheng Suchun coquettishly put her arm around his neck. After a few years of looking after the children without doing farm work, she had be much fairer and was as beautiful as a flower, a perfect match for An Zhiren in terms of looks. "I know what you''re all thinking - that eldest brother is not around and it''s difficult for the couple to be separated. But the two of them have jobs, I asked little fourth sonst time he was back. With his allowance, reward for missions, and various subsidies, he already earns 50-60 yuan per month. I also heard eldest brother got a promotion again - after so many years he should earn 70-80 yuan at least. Add eldest sister-inw''s sry, the two of them earn over 100 yuan per month. I feel we are the ones worse offpared to them."


    An Zhiren''s sry was more than enough to support the family, but it definitely could notpare with theirs. Yet his parents always helped the eldest son, anyone would feel unhappy over time, and Zheng Suchun did not think her perspective was wrong.


    With his beautiful wife in his arms, and this matter indeed could not withstand too much analysis, An Zhiren could only admit defeat. "I know you are beautiful and kind-hearted. Let''s put this incident behind us and not mention it again, alright?"


    An Zhiren certainly could not tell her that the elders in the family still had significant savings hidden away. As long as the right opportunity came, they did not need to worry about money at all.


    However, the college entrance examination had been restored now, and he believed the day the policies changed was also not far off.


    The An family elders thought they had kept the secret of the hidden family assets very well, but they did not know that none of the four grandsons had been fooled, even ZhiXia knew the exact location from what An ZhiAng said.


    Seeing that An Zhiren still took her side, Zheng Suchun was finally satisfied.


    During the exam, ZhiXia breezed through everything confidently. As An Zhiren had expected, her shorings were mainly in ideological awareness instead.


    To put it bluntly, shecked the spirit of self-sacrifice and dedication, and was rather selfish and indifferent instead.


    Fortunately, An Zhiren had specifically made her ovee this aspect. Although many of her responses went against her true feelings, they were still passable.


    ZhiXia was not in the same exam room as the others. When she came out, she did not see them either so she went straight home first.


    Sister Zhang was anxiously waiting at home. Before ZhiXia even entered, she eagerly rushed out, "ZhiXia, how was the exam? Did you find it difficult?"


    Old Master and Old Madam had also been paying attention to movement by the door. Hearing Sister Zhang''s question, they waited expectantly for her reply.


    ZhiXia smiled and said, "It was alright I guess. I finished all the questions I could do, the rest is up to fate now."


    Old Master and Old Madam''s hearts thumped - they felt she did not do well in the exam. They consoled, "Man proposes, God disposes. Whether you seed or not, we''ve already done our best. Don''t put the result too close to heart."


    ZhiXia nodded. The few little ones babbled noisily at the side, each moring for her attention.


    Old Madam asked Old Master, "Zhiren and the other boys also took part right? Should we go take a look?"


    Old Master did not care much. He casually said, "He''s a high school teacher. If he can''t even get into college, won''t he be pping his own face?"


    An Zhiren had stayed in school to teach due to his outstanding academic results previously. In terms of studying, they never needed to worry about these children before.


    Even the always fooling around An ZhiAng had consistently performed excellently.


    From an outsider''s perspective, it did seem unnecessary for An Zhiren to take the college entrance exam.


    But the grandfather and grandson had their own ideas.


    An JingZhi became the principal because the An family''s college was confiscated in the past. Together with his own extensive knowledge and talent, the preferential treatment from the government resulted in him obtaining this position.


    But the inheritance system was useless now. No matter how outstanding An Zhiren was, without appointment from the education bureau, he could not seed his father''s position either. So he could only strive to make himself even more outstanding.


    It was not that he must take over An JingZhi''s role per se, but since the opportunity presented itself, his future could no longer be limited to that of a high school teacher.


    An JingZhi still held this position. As long as he was there, their family was considered a cadre one. But An JingZhi would have to retire sooner orter given his age.


    The eldest and fourth son had joined the army. Third son An ZhiXian specialized in medicine and ZhiXian''s hospital was even striving for an overseas research spot. An ZhiXian had the greatest chance of obtaining that quota, which was why he did not take this college entrance exam.


    Therefore, the family still hoped that An Zhiren could advance further and achieve something politically.


    But all these were privately discussed between grandfather and grandsons. Even Old Madam did not know clearly, let alone Zhou Nan and the others.


    "But there are still the two daughters-inw right? We should still go take a look," Old Madam said.


    Old Master did not really care. Imbued with the prevalent male chauvinism thoughts of his era, whether his two daughters-inw could be admitted did not concern him too much.


    Of course, he would not oppose them bing even more outstanding.


    The thinking that womencked talent had long been abolished. Objectively speaking, having talent and skills would allow them to raise their children better.

 Chapter 288: Results

    <h4>Chapter 288</h4>


    As Grandfather and Grandmother left, Zhang Sao quickly pulled a few little ones aside. "Stop making a fuss, let your mother rest well. She has another exam tomorrow. You all should behave these days."


    "It''s alright, Zhang Sao. I''ll y with them for a while," Zhi Xia smiled.


    Surprisingly, the children were very well-behaved. Upon hearing Zhang Sao''s words, they quickly pushed her back to the room and considerately closed the door, ensuring they behaved outside.


    After a day of exams, everyone was a bit tired, so Zhi Xia went along with them.


    Lying on the bed upon returning to the room, she suddenly felt a disturbance in the space. She got up again to open the door. "Zhang Sao, I locked the door and will take a nap. Can you help watch over them?"


    "Sure, go ahead and rest. Don''t worry about the kids. I''ll take care of them," Zhang Sao replied.


    Hearing Zhang Sao''s response, Zhi Xia closed the door once again, locked it from the inside, and entered the space.


    As soon as she entered, she was embraced by the man she hadn''t seen for over a month.


    "How was the exam?" His voice sounded a bit weary, and he held a bathrobe in his hand, as if he wanted to take a shower.


    "It went fine. But I still have another exam tomorrow," Zhi Xia held his strong hand, turning herself to face him.


    Her tender fingers gently brushed his tired face, instantly noticing his exhaustion.


    "Wasn''t it supposed to be less tiring once everything fell into ce?"


    Pei Jing sighed. "It''s not that easy. Establishing a new department involves dealing with various trivial matters. It''s like feeling your way across a river..."


    If it weren''t for worrying about her college entrance exams, Pei Jing would rarelye to the space alone.


    The couple savored their reunion, talking about their respective experiences with the children.


    Water flowed steadily in the bathroom, creating an ambiguous contrast against the skin��ck and white forming distinct boundaries.


    An Zhiren''s male contraceptive pill had been sessful for the past two years. It was taken orally andsted for half a year, with a contraceptive effectiveness of over ny-nine percent. Currently, only Pei Jing and An Zhiren used it, without any observed side effects.


    Although it had been promoted in hospitals, in an era that valued having many children for blessings, there were not many people willing to opt for voluntary contraception.


    Without worries, physical intimacy became more spontaneous.


    Afterward, Zhi Xiay on the bed, the sheets underneath her crumpled.


    Pei Jing kissed her cheek and got up, putting on his clothes. "Rest well. I have to go back."


    The Special Forces team consisted entirely of men who spent most of their time together, even sleeping in the same dormitory at night. It wasn''t easy to disappear for such a long time without being noticed.


    Zhi Xia''s fatigued fingers didn''t want to move. She simply murmured a sound of acknowledgement.


    Only after he left did she burst intoughter she couldn''t control.


    Suddenly, she had a feeling that they weren''t like a married couple but more like two people engaged in an affair, always in a hurry.


    Originally, she wasn''t tired, but now she truly felt exhausted. Zhi Xia couldn''t think about anything else and quickly fell into a deep slumber.


    The next day, when she came out of the examination room, she saw An Zhiren waiting outside.


    "Second Brother, are you here to pick up Second Sister-inw?" Zhi Xia approached and greeted him.


    "I''ve been waiting for you," An Zhiren smiled and said, "Let''s go home for dinner tonight. Grandpa and grandma will also be there."


    After all, everyone has been quite nervous during the period before the college entrance examination. Now that the exam is over, regardless of the results, it''s worth celebrating.


    Zhi Xia nodded in agreement and didn''t refuse, then she went back.


    Riding her bicycle on the bustling streets, amidst the crowd, Zhi Xia seemed to catch a glimpse of a familiar figure.


    Liang Zhiwei''s fate didn''t change. With the passing of Zhao Jingyun, he became a lonely person with white hair overnight.


    The sight of that head of graying hair disappeared quickly, and Zhi Xia quickly turned her head to face forward.


    Everyone has their own path to walk, and some people, despite seeming sessful, actually lose everything.


    Soon, those who were sent down will be rehabilitated, and the first to be impacted will be the ideologicalmittee. The chaotic era of shouting and killing has passed. As the director, Liang Zhiwei''s good days have alsoe to an end.


    Zhi Xia returned home and told Zhang Sao not to prepare dinner. She took the children to An''s house.


    During dinner, An Jingzhi asked how they did in the exam, but no one could give a specific answer.


    Among them, An Zhiren should be the most confident. After all, from the announcement of the resumption of the college entrance examination to now, it has only been a few months. The levels of knowledge and skills are different, andst-minute cramming can be said to have some effect, but it is also limited.


    Fortunately, the test questions this time weren''t too difficult, and it gave many people a chance.


    As the day came to an end, snowkes began to fall.


    Just before the New Year, Zhi Xia received her admission notice.


    Although Jincheng University is not as prestigious as Peking University, it is also one of the top universities and conveniently close to home. That''s why Zhi Xia chose it as her main reason.


    Meanwhile, An Zhiren was admitted to Peking University, and Guo Momo also got into Jincheng University. However, Big Sister and Second Sister still hadn''t received any news.


    Apart from Liu Ling, who applied to Jincheng University, Zheng Suchun also applied to Peking University. At this time, they still hadn''t received any news, which meant they were most likely rejected.


    Pei XiangXiang also failed to get in, but she still had a job with the Cultural Troupe, so it didn''t affect her much.


    The sound of a car outside the door rang out, and before Zhi Xia could react, several children shouted and ran out.


    "Dad and Fourth Uncle are back..."


    Zhi Xia was quite surprised that the two of them came back together.


    She quickly went out and saw Pei Jing and An ZhiAng had already gotten out of the car.


    "Younger sister, did you miss Fourth Brother?" An ZhiAng frowned, but when he smiled, his teeth appeared exceptionally white, and he seemed much more mature than before.


    "Of course I missed you. How long can you two stay this time? Can you celebrate the Lunar New Year at home?" Calcting it carefully, there wasn''t much time left until the New Year.


    An ZhiAng looked dissatisfied as he nced at Pei Jing and said, "How long we can stay isn''t something I can decide. Shouldn''t you ask Captain Pei about that?"


    Pei Jing didn''t even give him a nce. He held Zhi Xia''s hand and walked home, but before leaving, he turned back and asked An ZhiAng, "Who was moring toe and see grandpa and grandma? Why don''t you go?"


    "None of your business." An ZhiAng replied impatiently, but obediently went next door.


    Pei Jing watched the group of little rascals behind him and mischievously said to Pei ChenYe, "ChenYe, take your little brothers to y with your cousin. Ask your fourth uncle to drive you all to your grandfather''s house and tell him that Mom and Dad will visit them tomorrow."


    Pei Jing handed the car keys to Pei ChenYe, and the little guy''s face lit up with excitement at the thought of riding in a car. He didn''t care about the reunion and quickly called his friends before running off.


    Pei Wanqing, like a little sprite, watched Pei Jing closely. Pei Jing calmly looked back at her and said, "If you don''t want to go, you can stay at home. Dad will have some time to check your homeworkter."


    Pei Wanqing made a resistant expression and said, "No, no, I''d better go to Grandma''s house."


    "It''s not easy for us toe back for a visit, and you''re chasing them away. What''s the point?" Zhi Xia couldn''t help but re at him, seeing the children all run off.


    Before Pei Jing could respond, Zhang Sao came out of the living room, her face red, and looked at them. "Um, I suddenly remembered that there''s something to do at home today, so I''ll go back first. You can make dinner yourselves."


    After all, she was an experienced person. Even the children were cleared out, so it would be inconvenient for her to stay.


    They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and this couple was in the midst of sweet affection. Zhi Xia was self-aware and quickly retreated.


    As expected, Pei Jing didn''t refuse and said, "Alright, it''s been hard for Zhang Sao to take care of them all this time."


    Watching Zhang Sao''s hurried departure, Zhi Xia suddenly realized that she might have misunderstood.


    Fortunately, she had a thin face but a rather thick skin; otherwise, she would have been embarrassed to death.


    The fact proved that Zhang Sao had not misunderstood.


    As soon as she left, Pei Jing closed the door.


    The cold winter wind blew outside, but the temperature inside gradually rose.

 Chapter 289: Coached

    <h4>Chapter 289</h4>


    It waste into the night when their passion finally subsided.


    When Zhi Xia woke up early next morning, daylight had filled the room. She got dressed and went out, just as Pei Jing was returning from outside.


    "Where did you go so early?" she asked.


    "I went next door to see Grandpa and Grandma. I didn''t get a chance to visit them yesterday," he exined.


    Why he hadn''t gone to visit was crystal clear to Zhi Xia, who couldn''t help blushing as she recalled their wild abandonst night.


    "Grandma asked us to go next door for dinner. She figured Sister Zhang wouldn''t being over today since we''re not home," Pei Jing said.


    Zhi Xia nodded and went out with him, closing their door before heading next door.


    None of the kids were there, having all been taken to An''s family yesterday. Zhi Xia had assumed they would be going to Grandpa and Grandma''s today as well, but to her surprise, they had declined.


    Privately, Old Madam pulled Zhi Xia aside and said, "Both your sisters-inw failed their exams at the same time. When you go over, don''t bring up the gaokao or you''ll upset them."


    It seemed everyone had eyes bigger than their stomachs, in Old Madam''s opinion.


    She remembered them making ns to apply for good universities before, wanting to ride on someone else''s coattails instead of leaving themselves a way out. And now look, they had failed the exam and had no one to me but themselves.


    Especially her second son''s wife - Beijing University was notoriously hard to get into. Her second son had a chance, but his wife hadn''t even finished high school...


    Still, it wouldn''t do to poke that wound right now.


    Once they had time to process their disappointment, the family could reunite againter without issue. But Zhi Xia''s situation was different. Pei Jing hadn''t been back in a long time and had returned right before the new year; she owed it to him to visit.


    "I understand, Grandma. Pei Jing and I wille back this evening to have dinner with you and Grandpa," Zhi Xia quickly agreed.


    "Good, I''ll have Xiao Zhou start preparing. We''ll be expecting you tonight," Old Madam happily replied.


    When Zhi Xia and Pei Jing left, she suggested, "Let''s go home first. I''ll grab some things from my storage dimension so we don''t have to go to the supply store."


    "I already put several bottles of good wine in the car," Pei Jing told her. "Just take whatever you want."


    Shielding herself behind the door, Zhi Xia took out two plump roosters and a pair ofmb legs from her dimension, along with half a basket of eggs.


    The poultry poption in her dimension had ballooned out of control since they had no natural predators. She had released many to feed the magical beasts she got from the magical realm in exchange, but without any threats they multiplied too quickly regardless.


    asionally she would take some out as gifts for the elders, but didn''t dare do it too often for fear of exposing her secret. After all, everyone had ration tickets for a limited amount of meat each month, so she couldn''t be pulling it out every day.


    Unable to take everything, she called out to Pei Jing from behind the door, "Jing,e help me for a bit!"


    Pei Jing hurried over and saw the conspicuous roosters andmb legs on the ground, plus the half basket of eggs.


    "Let me go get the tricycle," he said. He had nned for them to walk over since it wasn''t far and the morning was still early, but with this much stuff he figured riding would be better.


    He tied the chickens andmb legs up front before letting Zhi Xia sit in the back holding the bamboo basket in herp.


    On the way, Pei Jing curiously asked her, "Why so generous this time?"


    "What do you mean? When have I ever been stingy?"


    Pei Jing just smiled without answering. It wasn''t that Zhi Xia was usually stingy, but her unusual generosity with meat today was clearly for her brother''s sake.


    Sometimes their sibling bond made even him, her closest confidante, a little jealous.


    They had barely arrived at An''s house when the chattering voices of children rang out from the yard.


    "Babies, Mommy''s here!" Zhi Xia yelled as soon as she jumped off the tricycle.


    Wen Qing rushed out with a horde of younger siblings, therge group of kids looking even more impressive than the adults in the house.


    "Auntie''s here! Grandma...Auntie''s here!"


    He had barely finished calling out excitedly before turning and dashing back inside. The other children were also shouting "Daddy, Mommy!"


    An JingZhi and Zhou Nan came out to greet them, with Zhou Nan quickly taking the things from Zhi Xia''s hands. "Why''d you buy so much meat?"


    With two chickens andmb legs that all looked quite plump, she must have used up several months worth of ration tickets!


    And that basket of eggs... Zhou Nan called to An JingZhi, "What are you standing around for! Come help Little Jing with the stuff. Can''t you see he''s still pushing the tricycle?"


    An JingZhi picked up the two legs ofmb and remarked snidely as he carried them inside, "We''re not going to someone else''s ce, what''s with the extravagance? Should''ve saved the tickets for supplementing the kids slowly."


    Pei Jing smoothed it over. "Didn''t cost much or use any ration tickets. A friend helped get them. The new year''sing up anyway."


    Only then did Zhou Nan rx and ask if they still had enough left at home.


    An ZhiAng had already taken the basket from Zhi Xia and pulled her into the room, where he pointed at her forehead in annoyance and scolded, "Are you an idiot? You''re only twenty five, why the rush to have so many kids? No one else cares about you, so can''t you care more about yourself? Giving birth hurts and damages the body!"


    He was angry with himself for not being there and with the family for hiding her situation from him the entire time.


    When An ZhiAng learned he had another new niece or nephew, he nearly ground his teeth into dust.


    He couldn''t do anything against that lecherous bull, and trying to stand up for his sister always ended badly for him too. The guy bested him every time, it was infuriating!

 Chapter 290: Never Come Out Again

    <h4>Chapter 290</h4>


    Seeing An ZhiAng''s furious look, Liu Ling couldn''t helpughing out loud.


    From the heart, this feeling of being cared for really wasn''t bad.


    "You even dare tough. It looks like you didn''t take my words to heart at all." Seeing her silly and carefree appearance, An ZhiAng was even more annoyed.


    He went to be a soldier, and she got married quietly. He didn''te back for two years, and good heavens, she directly gave birth to a bunch of kids. She really didn''t know how to take care of herself at all.


    "Of course I took it to heart. Those were the words of my fourth brother. No matter whose words I don''t take to heart, I still have to take yours to heart!" Liu Ling hugged his arm coquettishly with a smile, "Fourth brother, it''s not that I don''t know how to take care of myself. Look, I''m fine, and the kids are already so big, it''s not like I can stuff them back in. You came back for a rare visit, so don''t scold me anymore, okay?"


    An ZhiAng, who had already matured, was a bit taller than when he went to be a soldier. Even though Liu Ling had also grown taller, the two of them still had the same height ratio as before when standing together.


    He stretched out his hand worriedly and stroked her smooth hair, exining sincerely: "I''m not scolding you, I''m telling you to remember that you yourself are the most important, thenes everyone else, not even the children or your husband, can have a ce in your heart that exceeds your own, Liu Ling, promise your brother that you will never wrong yourself just to cater to others. You have to remember that your brother will always love you."


    An ZhiAng was no longer a child. He understood that growing up in that kind of environment, she must have an extremeck of love, so she desperately wanted to grasp everything around her, which was why she gave birth to so many children for Pei Jing.


    It was also because he was useless himself. Even though he struggled desperately and became the strongest among his cohort of teammates, he still always lost to Pei Jing whenever he challenged him.


    He admitted that Pei Jing was very strong, but that was not a reason for him to bully his sister.


    Liu Ling was young and ignorant, yet he was already a grown man, how could he still be so ignorant?


    Just look at his mother. Just because she gave birth to a few brothers, she wasn''t even that old yet she already had all kinds of illnesses,ining about pain here and there every day.


    He didn''t want his sister to live like his mother in the future. She should have been a little princess held in the palms of people''s hands, not an olddy serving the whole family.


    And so, even after so many years, An ZhiAng still couldn''t stand Pei Jing.


    "I know." Liu Ling hugged An ZhiAng tightly, "Fourth brother, I will always love myself and never put anyone above myself. In my heart, I will put myself first, hmm...you second, then my few kids, Pei Jing can only be at the end!"


    Only then did An ZhiAng show a big smile, though his mouth said, "I knew you were just coaxing your fourth brother."


    Liu Ling hurried to change the subject, "Oh my, stop talking about me all the time. Tell me about yourself."


    "What is there to say about me? Still the same as before. I make a living under that Pei fellow every day. He wouldn''t even let me ask for leave toe back and see you." An ZhiAng spoke matter-of-factly, but he had other ns in his heart, he was secretly tattling.


    Although heined that Pei Jing made his sister give birth to so many children, at least besides that one aspect, he couldn''t pick out any other faults.


    Liu Ling didn''t take his bait and asked, "Fourth brother, you''re 25 now, is there a girl you like?"


    The benefits in the army were already not low, and the special forces got even better benefits. An ZhiAng could average sixty yuan a month, but fifty of that still went to Liu Ling, and the remaining 10 yuan was what Liu Ling forced him to keep for himself.


    Of course, Liu Ling was only temporarily keeping that money for him, she certainly wouldn''t let him really spend it as he wished like he said.


    An ZhiAng directly rolled his eyes, "What girls are there? I''m holed up on that mountain every day, let alone girls, even chickens I haven''t seen."


    "If you want to find a partner, let mom spread the word, wouldn''t our family''s threshold be trampled t?"


    "No way." An ZhiAng hurriedly refused, "Third brother is still single. Why am I in such a hurry? Anyway I don''t have the mindset for it right now. Don''t go bbing to mom."


    Otherwise next time he''d be forced into arranged meetings.


    Right now he only had one thing on his mind, which was to improve his own strength to defeat Pei Jing. As for everything else, he didn''t want to think about it for the time being and would just go with the flow in the future.


    In the living room, An JingZhi was talking to Pei Jing, An Zhiren was holding a child and walked in, "Where are little fourth brother and little sister? Why don''t I see them?"


    "They must be whispering in the room. Liu Ling had juste in and was pulled away by old fourth. Those two went into the room and haven''te out yet." An JingZhiughed.


    Zheng Suchun had just helped out in the kitchen for a bit and took the chance to sigh, "Fourth brother and little sister have such a good rtionship, they really live up to being twins, I heard that twins have a spiritual connection, I wonder if those two do?"


    "You don''t know that when fourth brother was still at home before, he protected Liu Ling like the apple of his eye. It''s just that he rarely gets toe back now..." An Zhiren said.


    Just as he was speaking, Liu Ling opened the door and came out, she happened to hear her name and asked, "What bad things is second brother saying about me? I heard it!"


    "Praising you, why can''t you think more positively." An Zhiren red at her.


    Liu Ling sat down next to him, "Praising me for what?"


    "Praising how beautiful and smart you are. It really is quite unexpected that you tested into Jin Cheng University this time. You don''t know that dad goes around bragging to people about you getting into university everywhere now, he''s put your second brother''s glory in the shadows."


    After all, Liu Ling hadn''t even gone to school before. Even if she could self-study at home, generally speaking she still couldn''tpare to people who had truly been to school.


    Yet while Zheng Suchun and Liu Ling hadn''t tested in, she had tested into university. This was absolutely not something that could be achieved just by cramming at thest moment.


    It seemed that over these years she really had been studying diligently to make up for herck of schooling, only then could she have achieved such a meteoric rise now that astonished everyone.


    Liu Ling nced at An JingZhi and he became rather embarrassed, quickly avoiding her gaze.


    "Still can''tpare to second brother. You tested into Peking University, and you were even the city''s high school graduate with the highest exam score. That kind of glory is hard for ordinary people to eclipse."


    An Zhiren smiled, he didn''t actually feel proud at all.


    He had always been teaching sses, repeating the knowledge countless times. If he couldn''t even test into university with that, then he might as well go farm the countryside.


    The real challenge was for those who had been away from knowledge for years yet could still have a meteoric rise. That was real sess.


    Everyone in the living room chatted andughed. The children also came to fool around.


    Zheng Suchun got up to clear the table for the meal since the rich aroma ofmb was already very thick wafting in from the kitchen.


    Liu Ling hurried to help out too. Pei Jing and An ZhiAng went to bring out dishes.


    Incidentally, when Pei Jing was little he had lived at the An family home for a very long time. His familiarity with the An family even exceeded Liu Ling''s. Other than feeling awkward about having to change how they addressed each other at first, they interacted very naturally now.


    After everyone was seated, only then did Liu Ling realize, "Sister-inw?"


    She had seen Liu Ling go out earlier so she assumed she had gone to help out in the kitchen, but Zheng Suchun had alreadye out while she still didn''t see her.


    "Wasn''t she speaking with all of you in the living room the whole time? Where did she run off to now?" Zheng Suchun''s words made everyone rather puzzled.


    With a sniff, Zheng Suchun said, "I saw her get up and go back to the room when we were talking. She still hasn''te back out."

 Chapter 291: God is a joke, meet again.

    <h4>Chapter 291</h4>


    Since thest time because of the incident of bringing children, father-inw spoke out, mother-inw''s health was not good enough to take care of, whoever''s children should think of a way by themselves, if they couldn''t bring them then send them to the nursery, Liu Ling had resented her ever since.


    Although she didn''t say it with her mouth, it was obvious that she was cold and estranged in her usual interactions, she could still perceive it.


    She originally still felt that Liu Ling was pretty good to her, even if she was at a disadvantage in some ces it didn''t matter, but now, she finally saw clearly.


    When she took advantage, Liu Ling was willing to be good to her, she hadn''t even let her suffer a loss yet, it was just that the elders treated everyone fairly, and she was ufortable in her heart.


    In the few years since Zheng Suchun got married, she naturally no longercked confidence like when she first married, and her mentality had alsopletely changed.


    No matter how good the pre-marriage promises were, when the facts were in front of her eyes, who wouldn''t make ns for their own little family?


    If she was angry then let her be angry, she brought it onto herself, as if she was the only one with a little temper.


    As the eldest daughter-inw, she had taken so much advantage for so many years, how could she even have the nerve.


    After all, they were living in the same house, Zhou Nan couldn''t just ignore it. She stood up and said, "You guys go ahead and start eating first, she probably didn''t hear me, I''ll go call her."


    "You sit down, let Wen Qing go." An Jingzhi said and then turned his head towards the children''s table and called out, "Wen Qing, go call your mom toe eat."


    The child also didn''t have too many tricks, and was eyeing the meat on the table, so he hurried off to call.


    He ran back again, and seeing that others hadn''t started eating yet, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    The appearance of the little glutton was still rather adorable.


    When Liu Ling came out, there was some fatigue on her face, "Sorry mom, I didn''t hear you call us to eat just now."


    "It''s fine, my voice wasn''t very loud either, hurry up and sit down." Zhou Nan said unconcernedly.


    Liu Ling sat in her own spot, after An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan picked up their chopsticks, everyone else started eating too.


    Seeing the adults start eating on this side, the children on the other side stopped holding back too, and they all picked up their chopsticks and reached for themb legs.


    Two chickens were killed, and themb legs were stewed in a pot with cabbage, turnips and noodles, the aroma was extremely rich.


    After the meal, Zhou Nan cleaned up the bowls and chopsticks, Zhi Xia swept the floor, Zheng Suchun went to clean up the kitchen, and Liu Ling hurried over to help too.


    After Zhi Xia finished sweeping the floor she stopped working. She had just entered the living room when she heard An Jingzhi ask her about the college entrance examination.


    His attitudepared to before had an obvious change. Well, previously Zhi Xia was the only illiterate person in the family, even if there were reasons for it, it still didn''t sound good when talked about outside.


    And now, having be a college student, her life would change even more because of it.


    Liu Ling and Zhou Nan were also done with their busy work, it was just that Zheng Suchun was a little slower at washing the dishes.


    An Jingzhi was obviously in a good mood. Seeing Liu Linge over, he also knew that this daughter-inw had a strong personality. Even Zhi Xia had been admitted, but she had failed. Her heart must not feel good.


    He thought about it and still opened his mouth tofort her, "The notice for this college entrance examination was given rtively urgently, it''s very normal to not be well prepared. Wen Qing''s mom, you still have to focus on work and the child as the main thing, adjust your mentality well. If you really don''t want to give up, then study hard and strive to test in next year, it won''t be toote either."


    "I know dad. But I don''t n to take the exams again. I''ll put my heart into my work from now on." It was also a decision she made with great difficulty this time. Although she felt a little disappointed about not getting in.


    She was already thirty, she really couldn''tpare with the young people. To try again next year, it would be fine if she tested in, but if she didn''t, she would lose a lot of face.


    Moreover, even if she did test in, she would still have a few years of college, by the time she graduated she would already be halfway through life.


    Rtively speaking, she was no longer young.


    Regarding this, An Jingzhi didn''t force her. Heforted her a few more sentences, then stopped pursuing it.


    Even though both daughters-inw didn''t test in, his son and daughter had both gotten in. If he wasn''t afraid of being too ostentatious, he really wanted to have a big celebration at home.


    "By the way Zhiren, you''ll be going to Beijing after New Year''s, have you discussed with them mother and child how they''ll be arranged?" Zhou Nan suddenly remembered and asked.


    Zheng Suchun came in from outside still wiping her hands on her apron, staring eagerly at him.


    An Zhiren met her gaze then quickly looked away again, lightly clearing his throat and said, "I n to take them with me to Beijing and rent a house off campus."


    Zheng Suchun was bent on following him to apply for Peking University because she didn''t want to be separated from her husband either. No matter how much he persuaded her it was useless. She insisted on going with him.


    In this aspect she waspletely different from Liu Ling.


    "You guys figure it out between yourselves then." An Jingzhi said before Zhou Nan could open her mouth. He had confidence that if he let Zhou Nan say a few more sentences, she would definitely rope a whole bunch of things back onto herself.


    An Jingzhi didn''t want to help anyone look after children at all. But financially he didn''t mind giving some assistance.


    After all he was born the eldest young master. Although the things at his father''s ce couldn''t be touched yet, he still had some private savings of his own, that even Zhou Nan didn''t know about.


    As the new year approached, the streets became increasingly lively.


    Pei Jing rarely had such leisure time these days. He took Guo Momo''s son and went out to y everyday, having a car was very convenient. He directly took them around all the fun ces in Jingcheng.


    After New Year''s on the second day, he took An Zhiang back home. He didn''t even have time to go pay New Year visits in Zhou vige like they originally said.


    Another heavy snow once again covered the earth. Fortunately the weather cleared up before the tenth.


    By the time school started, the weather was clear and sunny, and the ground was dry.


    Guo Momo rode her bike over carrying PingAn on her back, "Sister-inw, have you prepared? Let''s go to school together."


    She was actually a little nervous herself, which was why she specially came over looking for Zhi Xia''spany. And specially brought her child too, also afraid of seeing contemptuous looks from others.


    Zhi Xia had just finished instructing Sister Zhang about things at home, and hurried out, "Coming."


    Seeing this scene, Sister Zhang who had followed her out suggested, "Why not leave PingAn here and I''ll watch him for a day? Today is your first day going to school, you still don''t know what the situation is. If you have to run around everywhere, bringing a child will be inconvenient too. Wait until you get things figured out today, find your bearings, and get settled in. Estimatingter on it''ll be easier."


    Guo Momo got a little emotional, and looked at Zhi Xia and Sister Zhang somewhat embarrassed, "Would it be too much trouble for Sister Zhang?"


    Even though he knew she was going to school today, Pei JianGuo still left earlier than usual without asking a single sentence about how the child should be handled.


    For this man, Guo Momo only had disappointment left towards him now, and couldn''t find any other emotions.


    "Since Sister Zhang offered, then leave PingAn here." Zhi Xia thought that they had to register today, find ssrooms, and process dorm amodations. Although they weren''t living on campus, having a ce they could use for afternoon naps wouldn''t be bad.


    Since both Sister Zhang and Zhi Xia said so, Guo Momo handed PingAn to Sister Zhang.


    Fortunately the children came over frequently, so PingAn wasn''t resistant to others holding him. He just watched Guo Momo''s back retreating into the distance with his bright shiny eyes.


    The university was rtively far away. Even riding bikes it took nearly 20 minutes. Of course part of that was because there were a lot of people on the roads today with school starting, causing congestion.


    Zhi Xia had already asked An Jingzhi about the process. She quickly finished the formalities, then went to the dorm with Guo Momo.


    Guo Momo hadn''t intended to apply for a dorm at first. But on Zhi Xia''s advice she asked for a bed space.


    She would have to bring her son to school in theing days. And this situation would persist for the entire college period. It would waste half an hour, round trip, to go home for lunch everyday. Once back home she would still have to cook and eat on her own, there simply wouldn''t be enough time.


    Therefore, choosing the dorm was better. The university provided subsidies that could fully cover lunches on campus. And the time savings could precisely be used for afternoon naps.


    When assigning dorms, Zhi Xia secretly slipped the dorm auntie a mlik candy. Sessfully getting them assigned to the same dorm room.


    There weren''t any other people in the dorm yet. Zhi Xia chose a spot near the window. She cleaned the bunk thoroughly and put her luggage on the top bunk. It was more convenient for Guo Momo to be on the lower bunk with her child, and could avoid a lot of trouble.


    By the time everything was ready, it was nearly noon.


    The two of them walked together towards the school gates. They didn''t n to eat outside. After all there were so many children at home, they didn''t have time to dy.


    Not far behind them, a tall and straight man watched her retreating figure. Going from initial astonishment, to confusion, and then excitement.


    Perhaps heaven just liked ying jokes on people. Just when he was prepared to give up, he encountered her here again.


    She was apanied by another woman, and the two chatted andughed as they walked, appearing quite close.


    It was simply unclear whether she hade to enroll as a student herself, or was there to apany the woman beside her who intended to enroll...

 Chapter 292: Can鈥檛 Lie to Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 292</h4>


    When she returned home, it was almost noon.


    The two of them had run around for half a day and were quite tired. Sister Zhang had so many children that she couldn''t cook, so she just made some simple food for herself.


    Guo Momo was in no hurry to leave either, and stayed to chat with Zhi Xia for a while.


    Although she didn''t say it outright, it was evident from the conversation that she felt confused and worried about the future, with a vague sense of dissatisfaction and eagerness to break out of her current circumstances.


    Sometimes, Zhi Xia quite admired Guo Momo.


    This seemingly delicate girl had not been shown any mercy by fate. On the contrary, she had been given many hardships, yet she remained positive and willing to change her situation. She was smart and patient too.


    Even in such a difficult family environment, she had not allowed herself to be dragged down. Instead, she had found a way out to give herself more hope for the future.


    Of course, she would not have made it this far without encouragement and help from others along the way. Zhi Xia had contributed the most.


    At the same time, Guo Momo also had different feelings towards Zhi Xia.


    Initially, she had tried to ingratiate herself with Zhi Xia to gain the approval of PingAn''s elders so that they would ept her and improve her life.


    But now, she sincerely felt that Zhi Xia was like a beacon lighting her path in life. Whenever she encountered difficulties or felt lost and uneasy, Zhi Xia could always guide her correctly, help her and give her hope.


    Zhi Xia was only a few years older than her, yet gave off a feeling of having lived for a very long time.


    When Guo Momo returned home safely, the sun had already started its descent in the west.


    Pei JianGuo was still sitting in the living room, looking rather gloomy.


    Guo Momo was in good spirits today. She walked over with PingAn in her arms and put him down next to Pei JianGuo, "Why are you still at home? Don''t you have to go to work in the afternoon?"


    She admitted that she had deliberately timed her return.


    Although their first encounter had been nned, she could not deny that she had truly harbored feelings for Pei JianGuo at one point.


    Later on, that shred of sincerity had gradually worn away under various conflicts and interference from others.


    With the passion fading into practical reality, what they had to consider was still their livelihood and their child.


    So even though the love was gone and he had not met her expectations of a better life, she was still willing to endure for PingAn''s sake.


    But she could no longer lie to herself. It was not just that Pei JianGuo was bing more impatient with her - she felt the same way about him too.


    She could tolerate his selfishness but could not ignore his obvious dislike of PingAn following Wang Yue''s provocations.


    "You still know that I have work in the afternoon. Guo Momo, look at yourself now - no meals cooked, nowhere to be seen, taking PingAn out wandering all day long. Have you forgotten that you''re a married woman, that you''re my wife and PingAn''s mother? Can you not fulfill your duties as a wife and mother?" Pei JianGuounched into a tirade of criticism that left Guo Momo dumbfounded.


    She quickly reacted and questioned back, "How am I not being a good mother and wife? Pei JianGuo, have you forgotten that I''ve been the one solely taking care of PingAn these past few years? I''ve never asked you to lift a finger in housework. I, Guo Momo, have done right by you well enough in our marriage these few years. And now I''ve tested into college to be a university student. But not only are you not happy for me or helping to shoulder some family responsibilities, you''re finding fault with me instead. I really don''t understand what you''re thinking. When you listened to your mother and sister''s instigations, did you ever think about how PingAn ended up in his current state because of them? Why can''t I have another child? It''s because your sister pushed me down when I was pregnant, which led to my condition now. But you''ve forgiven your mother and sister while constantly finding PingAn and me burdensome when we''re the victims. Pei JianGuo, do you think you''re in the right?"


    Guo Momo had neverined to Pei JianGuo about Wang Yue before because she knew she had to rely on him and thus had to cajole him. When one lived under someone else''s roof, they had to lower their heads. Without reliance, she would have no nerve.


    Perhaps getting into university had given her some backbone, which led to her blurting out all those bottled-up words.


    At this point, Pei JianGuo didn''t even dare meet Guo Momo''s eyes, because she had seen right through him. He felt guilty knowing full well that he was in the wrong rather than believing his actions were justified.


    "The past is in the past. What''s the point of bringing it back up? And mom has alreadypensated you," Pei JianGuo hastily grabbed his bag and got up. "Nevermind, no point squabbling with you. I''m going to work."


    He always avoided the problem when he couldn''t argue back.


    On one hand there was his mother and sister, on the other his wife and son - yet he was the most torn one stuck in between while none of the women understood him, all pressuring him instead.


    Their loud voices must have frightened the child. Little PingAn sat on the bench, bawling with his mouth wide open but no sounding out.


    Guo Momo stubbornly wiped the corners of her eyes and picked up her son to soothe him. "PingAn, good boy, mommy and daddy were not fighting. Don''t be scared, don''t be scared, mommy''s hugging her good boy..."


    Pei JianGuo didn''te back after getting off work that afternoon and was still missingte into the night. Guo Momo had made dinner but didn''t get to wait for him before eating with PingAn.


    She wiped her tears and put on a smile before heading out the door. To the outside, she remained strong as ever.


    There were many people on campus, smiles on every face. Zhi Xia had just entered when someone stopped her.


    "Zhi Xia, long time no see." Zhao Runze stood before her. Now he could confirm that it was Zhi Xia who had enrolled.


    No matter the change in name, there were some things that did not change. Even without formal schooling, she still managed to test into university through her own efforts.


    "Comrade Zhao, we''re not familiar enough for you to address me by my name. Please call me Comrade An," Zhi Xia remained aloof. She did not have the habit of leading others on when she knew their intentions. Clearly rejecting any hopes he harbored would be better for them both.


    But Zhao Runze obviouslycked this awareness, feeling wronged by Zhi Xia not letting him call her by name. "I just want to be friends, what''s wrong with that?"


    "Comrade Zhao, I''m a married woman. Getting too close with a malerade would greatly disturb my family, which I do not want. Do you understand?" Zhi Xia stated inly.


    The brightness in his eyes dimmed as he gave a bitterugh. "I...I understand. Sorry, I won''t bother you again."


    This time, he knew he had no hope left.


    She was truly heartless. Even knowing that story, she still showed him no mercy.


    Zhi Xia nodded and walked past him. After getting some distance, she suddenly remembered something and turned back to say: "Comrade Zhao, one''s life should not revolve solely around petty romance. You''re an exceptional person with such opportunities. Work hard towards a better future, and I believe you''ll also find someonepatible to apany you for life."


    This was the only advice she could give, hoping he would set his sights elsewhere instead of on her - and it was out of consideration that he had not actually done anything inappropriate.


    Zhao Runze was still a decent man after all. She sincerely wished him well.


    Zhi Xia and Guo Momo were not in the same ssroom. Zhi Xia walked into her ssroom and sat down in her seat.


    The person beside her suddenly nudged her. "Zhi Xia An? You''re Zhi Xia An?"


    The girl before her looked so differentpared to when they first met, so much prettier now! Her temperament had changed dramatically too. If not for that face still bearing some resemnce to the An family''s grandmother, Zhi Xia would barely recognize her.


    Zhi Xia turned to see a skinny, dark girl with big round eyes shining brightly at her.


    "You are...?" Zhi Xia racked her brains but couldn''t recall who she was.

 Chapter 293: It鈥檚 a Small World

    <h4>Chapter 293</h4>


    "It''s me, Wang Li. Don''t you recognize me?" Wang Li suddenly remembered something and touched her own face. A hint of sadness shed in her eyes. "Well, I''ve been tanned from living in the countryside these past few years. My own mother almost didn''t recognize me."


    After speaking, she reminded Zhixia, "It was at Gao Meiyun''s wedding. I almost fell into their trap, but luckily you reminded me. Do you remember?"


    "It''s you! I''m really sorry, it''s been so long, and I didn''t remember," the girl replied. She was the one who had delivered the marriage gift to Gao Meiyun, and she was also the girl who was implicated by Gao Meiyun when she framed Fourth Brother for being a hooligan in the previous life.


    At that time, she had returned from the countryside to visit her family, and Gao Meiyun had gathered them together and drugged them. Later, Fourth Brother was arrested for his hooliganism, and she jumped into the river because of the rumors and pressure while pregnant.


    In this life, without Gao Meiyun''s existence, there was no connection between her and Fourth Brother. They both went on with their own lives.


    Speaking of what happened back then, Wang Li couldn''t help but sigh, speaking softly to avoid being overheard.


    Another familiar person entered, causing Zhixia to frown.


    The world was indeed small. Gao Second Sister had unexpectedly been admitted to the university as well, and by chance, she was in the same ss as her, sitting a couple of rows behind.


    During ss, Zhixia could still feel a gaze fixed on her that didn''t waver.


    It wasn''t until the moment Gao Qingcheng''s name was called during self-introductions that Gao Second Sister stood up.


    Zhixia was a bit confused. Was she impersonating someone? Or did she change her name?


    Regarding the events in An Le Vige, besides the Gao family, she couldn''t recall much. She had no idea if there really was a person named Gao Qingcheng.


    After ss, Gao Second Sister stood in front of Zhixia''s desk. Clearly, she also hadn''t expected such a coincidence, and her demeanor seemed more uneasy.


    "Zhixia, can we talk outside?" Gao Second Sister asked, her gaze pleading. It was evident that she didn''t want others to know about their rtionship.


    Well, as the victim, Zhixia''s reputation was tarnished, but as the perpetrator''s sibling, Gao Second Sister was even more ashamed.


    Zhixia pondered for a moment and nodded, standing up and walking out.


    Gao Second Sister followed behind her, and both of them walked at a brisk pace, quickly arriving on a path within the campus.


    "Younger sister, I didn''t expect this coincidence either. We''re in the same ss. What do you think?" Gao Second Sister''s attempt to please was obvious, and her tone contained an element of testing.


    In truth, she was also puzzled. How could a person who hadn''t even set foot in a school be admitted to a university? Was it really that easy to get into college?


    She didn''t bother pondering how Zhixia had been admitted. She only regretted not choosing a different ce to go if she had known Zhixia was also attending Jincheng University.


    "I''m not your younger sister, Gao Second Sister. Mind your words," Zhixia said. "Also, I assume you didn''t ask me toe out just to exchange pleasantries?"


    Gao Second Sister awkwardly smiled and straightforwardly said, "Zhixia, what happened in the past was a mistake on my family''s part. You''ve already taken your revenge. Let''s forget the past and move on, never mentioning it again. What do you think?"


    She was mainly afraid of Gao Qingcheng retaliating against her. After all, there was a clear difference in their identities now, and she could only endure whatever the other party wanted to do to her.


    Seeing how she was trying to please him now, Gao Qingcheng couldn''t even recall her previous aggressive and fierce demeanor in front of him.


    He turned his head and noticed a pool of water just to the left of the small path. Gao Qingcheng casually pointed at it, "If you really want to reconcile, you can jump into the water here. How about that?"


    Gao Second Sister''s face instantly changed, and she stared stiffly at Gao Qingcheng. "Don''t joke around, Gao Qingcheng. It''s still the first month of the year, and if I jump into the water here, I''ll freeze to death."


    Although the sun was shining today, there was still a noticeable chill in the air. She was wearing a padded jacket and trousers, and jumping into the water would render herpletely immobile.


    Gao Qingcheng smiled and his gaze suddenly turned cold. "I''m not joking, Gao Second Sister. Do you remember the scene when you pushed me into the river that winter? The surface of the river was still frozen, and at the moment I sank into the water, I truly felt like I was going to die. So tell me, how can I let bygones be bygones?"


    Gao Second Sister took two fearful steps back, looking at Gao Qingcheng''s serious expression. Indeed, she wasn''t joking.


    The water in theke by the side of the path was clear, and there were stones scattered along the shore. The environment here was much better than the small pond at the vige entrance.


    At the very least, theke''s surface hadn''t frozen over.


    But this wasn''t simply a matter of the environment. Jumping into the water in this cold weather would cost her more than half her life.


    Gao Qingcheng hadn''t forgotten, and she hadn''t forgotten either. The year Gao Xiaocao was rescued from theke, she fell ill for a full half month. Even after she recovered, Gao Second Sister mocked her as a wretched person who couldn''t even die.


    Recalling those past events, Gao Second Sister really wanted to p herself hard.


    "What''s wrong? Are you scared now? When you pushed me into the water back then, you didn''t hesitate like you are now, Second Sister. Show some courage, won''t you? Or is it that you only have the courage to do wicked things, but when ites to yourself, youck determination?" Gao Qingcheng continued to provoke her. "Think about how hard you worked to get into university and the efforts you''ve made over these years. With just a word from me, I can turn it all into nothing..."


    Ssh.


    Gao Second Sister actually jumped in.


    The icyke water soaked her clothes, and Gao Second Sister began to sink. Soon, the water was over her head.


    "Someone fell into the water! Quick, someone fell into the water!"


    There were many people on the campus, and someone quickly noticed that Gao Second Sister had fallen into the water.


    Gao Qingcheng calmly watched as Gao Second Sister was finally grabbed by someone with a stick and pulled ashore. Then, she calmly walked away.


    A new ss began, and several seats were empty in the ssroom.


    Wang Li hurriedly ran back from outside, panting as she stood in front of the tform. "Hey, have you heard? Gao Qingcheng from our ss fell into the water. Did you all hear about it?"


    Some people who knew about the incident quickly began to recount it, and Wang Li hurriedly leaned in to listen.


    Perhaps due to the incident of someone falling into the water, there was no teacher present in the ssroom.


    Halfway through the ss, Teacher Zheng finally arrived and called out from outside the door, "An Zhixia, pleasee to the office."


    Wang Li tapped her arm with her finger and asked, "Do you know why Teacher Zheng wants you to go to the office?"


    An Zhixia shook her head, closed her textbook, and stood up to leave.


    In the office, An Zhixia knocked on the door and entered, asking, "Teacher Zheng, did you need something from me?"


    "An, please have a seat first."


    After An Zhixia sat down, Teacher Zheng spoke, "Did any ssmates see Gao Qingcheng talking to you for a long time before she jumped into the water?"


    Since someone had witnessed it, there was no point in concealing it. An Zhixia nodded and said, "Yes."


    Not knowing what others were saying, An Zhixia didn''t dare say much and just answered honestly.


    "Does that have anything to do with you regarding her jumping into the water?" Teacher Zheng asked again. "Or let me rephrase it, can you conveniently tell me what you were talking about before she jumped?"


    "It has nothing to do with me," An Zhixia replied. "We didn''t say much, just a few casual words. I don''t know why she suddenly jumped, maybe Teacher Zheng can ask Gao Qingcheng."


    An Zhixia''s response was fine, but her attitude towards the ssmate who fell into the water was clearly cold, a kind of coldness that shouldn''t even exist towards a stranger.


    Teacher Zheng paused for a moment and exined, "An, I''m not suspecting anything when asking you these questions. It''s just that Gao Qingcheng was speaking to you moments before she jumped into the water, so I naturally have to ask."


    "I understand that. I will actively cooperate with the investigation," An Zhixia said.


    Her words sounded good, but Teacher Zheng didn''t feel that she was cooperating much.


    After smiling, he said, "Alright, since it has nothing to do with you, you can go back for now. I will investigate further with Gao Qingcheng."


    An Zhixia stood up and left the office, returning to the ssroom without showing any signs of panic.


    She wasn''t afraid to ask Gao Second Sister either. Gao Second Sister wasn''t foolish. She had jumped into theke to reconcile with herself, so how could she possibly offend herself again?

 Chapter 294: I Made a Cover.

    <h4>Chapter 294</h4>


    After returning to the ssroom, Wang Li quietly moved over and asked ZhiXia An, "ZhiXia, what did Teacher Zheng call you over for?"


    "Nothing much, he just asked me a few questions." ZhiXia''s words were perfunctory, and Wang Li was sensible enough not to ask any further.


    This went on until the end of school. Just as ZhiXia was getting ready to leave, she heard Wang Li calling her again, ��ZhiXia, are you going to the cafeteria to eat? Let��s go together. After the meal we can rest in the dormitory for a while. Oh right, I still don��t know which dorm you live in!"


    "I need to find someone first before I can go to the cafeteria. You cane along with me if you��re not in a hurry."


    Since Wang Li seemed to only know ZhiXia, she was sticking quite close to her. "I''m not in a hurry, I have nothing to do anyway, so I��ll just go with you." Wang Li quickly said.


    Of course the person ZhiXia was looking for was Guo Momo. Today was her first day bringing her child to school, so ZhiXia wondered how it went.


    She had been waid by the sophomore girl when ss ended, so there was no chance to go check it out.


    With a child in tow, Guo Momo��s actions were naturally much slower than others. By the time ZhiXia and Wang Li got there, the ssroom was already empty, with only Guo Momo just walking out carrying Little PingAn on her back.


    "Auntie, I was just about toe looking for you," said Guo Momo. The gloom in her eyes disappeared the moment she saw ZhiXia, lighting up happily as she walked over to her.


    When she got to ZhiXia, she noticed there was someone else standing next to her. She was surprised for a moment, "This is...?"


    Wang Li quickly introduced herself, "Hello, I��m Wang Li, ZhiXia��s ssmate, just call me by my name."


    After speaking, she looked at ZhiXia in astonishment, "You got married? She calls you auntie!"


    Not long after marrying Gao Meiyun off, Wang Li responded to the country��s call and went down to the countryside. She hadn''t had much contact with her family since, so of course she didn''t know about ZhiXia having gotten married years ago.


    "Yes, I got married. I''m already a mom to quite a few kids." ZhiXia readily admitted it, then said to Guo Momo: "There isn''t much difference in our ages, just call me by my name when we''re at school."


    "Oh I couldn��t do that, it would be improper. If others heard it, they might think I don''t understand proper etiquette." Guo Momo hurriedly shook her head.


    "Suit yourself then." ZhiXia didn��t mind, so she let it go.


    Reaching out to tease Little PingAn, she asked ��Was PingAn good today? Did you listen well?��


    Although he couldn��t speak, he could understand what was said. His bright eyes looked at ZhiXia as he nodded his little head vigorously, but his open mouth couldn��t make a sound.


    "PingAn was very good, he didn��t fuss at all," said Guo Momo. But as she spoke these words, her eyes brimmed with heartache. "I''m starting to regret this a little, auntie. Being admitted to university is my good fortune, but it��s so unfair to PingAn. I gave birth to him but couldn��t give him a healthy body. Now he has to endure ridicule at such a young age just to follow me around."


    In ss, the way others looked at her with a child, especially after finding out PingAn couldn''t speak, made her feel like her heart was being cut open.


    Perhaps she should be grateful that PingAn was still young now, unable toprehend the gaze and idle chatter of others, and could still remain happy.


    At this point, Wang Li also noticed something different about this child. They were all perceptive people, understanding that in this situation they shouldn��t ask questions. Instead, Wang Li quickly praised the child in a positive way, soon praise that had the mother Guo Momo beaming radiantly.


    ZhiXia held PingAn��s little hand and looked at Guo Momo reassuringly. "This will all pass. Don''t take it to heart. The doctor also said PingAn''s legs and feet are fine, he can stand and walk, it''s only a matter of time before he starts walking properly."


    "Mm," Guo Momo braced herself with an affirmative nod. "Let''s hurry and eat."


    The cafeteria wasrge but they didn''t arrive early. As soon as they entered, they were faced with crowds of people and long queues already formed at the serving windows.


    Wang Li��s eyeballs nearly popped out in shock. "Hurry hurry, let��s quickly go line up!"


    After speaking she didn��t wait for the others, immediately joining a queue at a window for food she wanted to eat.


    ZhiXia said to Guo Momo, "You take PingAn first to find seats to sit down. I��ll go get food."


    Guo Momo nodded. "OK, auntie please take care of buying the food. I��ll give you meal tickets in a bit."


    The cafeteria food was pretty good, with rice, noodles and mostly a mix of coarse grains. There were many options for dishes, meat and vegetable.


    ZhiXia bought two bowls of noodle soup, and specifically took two boiled eggs for little PingAn.


    Guo Momo had already found them seats, with Wang Li a little faster than her.


    When ZhiXia put the food on the table and passed the eggs to Guo Momo, she said, "Got these specially for PingAn, they''re still hot. Feed him first."


    Guo Momo didn��t stand on ceremony.


    Anyone who has raised a child knows adults have to eat fast. There��s basically no time to savor anything.


    ZhiXia quickly finished her food. Little PingAn had also eaten his fill, so she carried him to let Guo Momo eat hastily.


    After the meal, the three went to rest in the dorms.


    Although Wang Li wasn��t in the same dorm room as them, fortunately she was in the same building on the same floor, just a few steps away.


    Their dorm room housed 6 people. When ZhiXia and Guo Momo returned, the other four were already there.


    "Hello everyone, let me introduce myself. I��m Guo Momo, this is my son Little PingAn. I''m very happy to be roommates with you all and hope we can help each other in the future." Bringing a child to the dorm, Guo Momo was afraid the others might have an opinion, so she didn��t have much confidence and greeted them amiably.


    ZhiXia also made her own self-introduction, easing Guo Momo��s awkwardness.


    Two of the girls were quite friendly, while the other two didn��t speak. Guo Momo didn��t say more, carrying PingAn to her own bed.


    Everyone quickly tidied up. Guo Momo ced PingAn on the bed, patting his little bottom with one hand. He knew this gesture was to coax him to sleep, obediently closing his eyes and soon falling asleep.


    ZhiXia climbed onto her upper bunk, spreading out the quilt but didn��t sleep. Instead she sunk her consciousness into her space.


    She wanted to make a cover that could envelope the bunk beds. She felt a little ufortable sleeping under others stare.


    In her space she took out some blue mesh fabric, using threeyers which would block outside view but not make it stuffy.


    With a quick scan when she first entered, she had estimated the height of the bunk beds, calcting a size that could cover the lower bunk as well. Then she started cutting before sewing it all together with a sewing machine.


    Time always flies quickly when busy. When ZhiXia finally finished sewing and tidied up, a nce at her watch showed it was almost time for ss.


    As her consciousness exited the space, she heard someone calling to them, "Hey, ZhiXia An, Guo Momo, it''s almost time, why aren''t you getting up?"


    Guo Momo awoke in confusion while ZhiXia climbed down from her bunk. Only little PingAn wasn''t fully awake yet.


    The person who called them had already hurried off. ZhiXia looked at the other girls, "Didn''t rest wellst night? You really conked out."


    Guo Momo nodded awkwardly, embarrassed to say she and PingAn didn''t get much sleepst night because of her husband arguing again. "Auntie, you go first. I��ll get PingAn up."


    ZhiXia didn''t sense anything amiss and left first. Before leaving she handed PingAn a pack of jerky, for him to nibble on when bored to alleviate tedium.


    The sophomore girl still didn''t show up, making the day pass rtively peacefully.


    On her way home, ZhiXia parted ways with Guo Momo and went straight to the An family home.

 Chapter 295: More Like a Routine

    <h4>Chapter 295</h4>


    An JingZhi arrived home earlier than her. As soon as Zi Xia walked in the door, she saw him guiding Wen Qing with her homework.


    Zhou Nan brought in the clothes that had just been dried and asked her, "Today is the first day of school, isn''t it? Did you juste back from school?"


    Zi Xia nodded, "I just got back. I have something I want to ask Dad."


    Her second brother and his wife had taken the children to Beijing, otherwise she would have gone directly to her second brother.


    An JingZhi had just finished exining the questions to Wen Qing when he heard her say she had something to ask him, so he turned around and said, "What''s the matter?"


    Zi Xia seldom looked for him alone. An JingZhi was aware of this point.


    He sat on a stool in the living room and took a sip of water. Zi Xia took the opportunity to sit not far from him.


    "I want to ask about the Gao family. Gao Dazhuang and Li Xiu should have been convicted of crimes, right? Under these circumstances, can their children take the college entrance examination and go to university?" Zi Xia said directly.


    "Impossible. Although university admissions this year are open to people from all walks of life, criminals cannot take the college entrance examination, nor can they pass the political review," An JingZhi answered without hesitation. At the same time, he also realized from these words that the question Zi Xia asked was different. "What''s going on? Is there someone from the Gao family who got into college? However, Gao Dazhuang and Li Xiu''s direct rtives cannot pass the political review, but it does not affect their nsmen. And when the two were convicted at the time, many of their rtives chose to sever ties directly."


    Even their pair of children were not implicated at that time. It was because they announced severing ties in front of the vige chief and Gao family elders, and the siblings even personally denounced Gao Dazhuang and Li Xiu''s crimes themselves in order to remove thebel of "bad element" from themselves.


    At that time, criminal elements were much more serious thanndlords. Moreover, a lot of gold and silver were found in Gao Dazhuang''s home that, after interrogation, were determined to have been illegally obtained during thend reform movement. With two crimesbined, he was sentenced directly to fifteen years.


    "But I saw Gao Second Sister. She now goes by the name Gao Qingcheng and is in the same ss as me," said Zi Xia.


    An JingZhi''s eyes darkened for a long time without speaking.


    He did not doubt Zi Xia''s words, he was just thinking about the possibility of this matter.


    "I will go to Anle Vige in person this weekend to get to the bottom of this. If Gao Second Sister is really Gao Qingcheng, no matter what means she used to obtain the political review, she will not be able to stay at Jincheng University," he finally said.


    It wasn''t that An Jingzhi and Zi Xia were merciless, but they both knew clearly that the country currentlycked talents in all walks of life. The first batch of college students after the resumption of the college entrance examination were bound to have unlimited prospects when they graduated and could easily be assigned to work in government agencies and departments.


    Once the Gao family rose again, they would definitely not let the An family live in peace.


    So while An Jingzhi could overlook the Gao siblings, he would never give them a chance to turn the tables.


    When she returned home, Sister Zhang had already prepared dinner and was just waiting for her toe back to start the meal.


    Zi Xia told them that they didn''t need to wait for her toe back in the future, and if she came backte, they could start eating first.


    The next day after finishing the noon ss, Zi Xia had just closed her textbook when she heard the loud voice of the ss monitor. "ssmates, don''t leave yet. I heard our ssmate Gao Qingcheng identally fell into the water yesterday and is seriously ill in the hospital. As ssmates, I think we should send some representatives to visit her, so as to fulfill our friendship as schoolmates. What do you think?"


    Knowing this, Zi Xia closed her textbook and walked out.


    "An Zi Xia, we are discussing things, don''t go yet!" Seeing that she was already at the door, the ss monitor hurriedly called out.


    Zi Xia looked back, "I think we have just started school and don''t know each other well yet. Those who have a good rtionship with Gao Qingcheng and want to visit can take the initiative to organize it. As for me, since I''m not familiar with her, I''d rather not force myself to go."


    "How can you say that!"


    "We are all ssmates, how can she say that!" said the people behind.


    Zi Xia had already walked away and didn''t care what else they were saying about her, she only knew because Wang Li had passed it on to her.


    Most people were very understanding.


    It was Zi Xia��s words that day that made many financially strapped and thin-skinned ssmates likewise stop contributing money.


    On Sunday, Zi Xia got up before dawn.


    The twins now had their own rooms. The triplets and Little Six slept in one room with two beds for them to roll around freely.


    The children were still asleep. She took clothes out of the closet and put them beside each of them separately.


    Chenye rubbed his eyes in confusion, "Mom, it''s not even dawn yet, why did you get up so early?"


    Zi Xia walked over to his bedside and whispered, "Mom has something to do today, so I got up a little earlier. I already told Sister Zhang yesterday that she wille over early today. Keep an eye on your younger brothers. If they wake up before Sister Zhanges, let them stay under the quilts first so they don''t catch cold, okay?"


    "Okay," Chenye obediently responded.


    Zi Xia touched his forehead, "It''s still early, go back to sleep for a while."


    Seeing him close his eyes again, Zi Xia went out the door.


    The foggy early morning chill was even worse. Zi Xia rode her bike with her wool coat wrapped tightly around her. She was also wearing leather gloves with a scarf covering half her face.


    By the time she arrived at the An family home, the fog had dissipated a lot.


    She leaned over the gate to listen. There were already sounds of talking in the yard, so she knocked on the door.


    "Coming! Who is it so early in the morning?" Zhou Nan grumbled before hurrying over to open the door in surprise, "Zi Xia, why did youe over?"


    Instead of answering, Zi Xia asked back, "Is Dad up?"


    "He''s up and about to leave," said Zhou Nan, gesturing for her toe in quickly. "Don''t tell me you want to go with him?"


    She had guessed right again. Zi Xia did intend to go to Anle Vige.


    When An Jingzhi found out, he didn''t say anything, just took her along with him when he set off.


    They left before seven o''clock and arrived after ten.


    An Jingzhi nced at his watch and said, "Let''s go to your grandma''s house first, and then go to Anle Vigeter."


    Zhou Nan had asked him to visit a rtive on the way, after all it was rare for him toe back, so it was only right to drop by and see them.


    That way, the timing would be just right, as they wouldn��t be able to chat in the afternoon.


    Zi Xia nodded. Seeing the big and small packages hanging from his bike, she already knew he must be going to the Zhou family.


    The Zhou family weed their arrival. An Jingzhi took the things off and handed them over, saying that he still had to go to Anle Vige and would not stay for lunch.


    Old Lady Zhou said a few more words before letting them leave.


    Pushing the bike forward, Zi Xia inadvertently looked back and saw Old Lady Zhou still following behind them to send them off, a gleam visible in her cloudy eyes.


    Zhou Nan was Old Lady Zhou��s only daughter, and she was no longer young either, already using a cane.


    With Zhou Nan so busy at home, she could onlye back once or twice a year, and always in a rush.


    An Jingzhi did not have much affection for the Zhou family. Visiting rtives was like a routine for him, otherwise he would not have just left things and departed after such a brief visit.


    His only redeeming quality was probably that he was quite generous and would not grumble about Zhou Nan caring too much for her maternal family.


    And Zhou Nan probably thought that since she couldn��te back often, giving more things to her mother would allow Old Lady Zhou to keep her standing.


    Otherwise, if her own daughter didn''t care at all, why would the daughter-inw be expected to?


    She must miss her daughter very much!


    Zi Xia stopped and turned back to ask Zhou Granny, "Granny, I''lle get youter and take you to the city to stay for a while, okay?"

 Chapter 296: It鈥檚 just Fine

    <h4>Chapter 296</h4>


    "Going to the city?" Zhou Granny was clearly somewhat interested. She lowered her eyes to think for a moment, then raised her head and said, "I won''t go. Granny is getting old, and my legs haven''t been working well these past two years. If I went, I would need someone to wait on me, and you all are so busy. I won''t go and cause trouble for you."


    "It''s no trouble at all," Zhi Xia said, ncing at An Jingzhi. An Jingzhi, who had been lost in thought, hurriedly nodded his head, "That''s right, Mother. We''lle get you in a bit. Go and stay for a while. Gao Meiyun''s mother has been missing you a lot too."


    "Then... then I''ll go stay for two days?" Zhou Granny didn''t dare make the decision on her own, and looked inquiringly at her daughter-inw by her side.


    Older Uncle Zhou quickly said, "Go on. Your son-inw has already said you can go. Stay for two days and I''lle get you to bring you back."


    "Oh, oh," Zhou Granny happily responded. "Anyway there isn''t much to do around the house right now, so I''ll go stay for two days."


    When you get older, you always worry about being a bother to the younger generation. And her daughter had married well, so Zhou Granny was afraid her daughter would suffer hardship and hadn''t dared cause her any trouble these past few years.


    In any case, she would ept whatever her daughter gave her, and wouldn''t ask for anything she didn''t.


    Fortunately, although her son-inw An Jingzhi was rather arrogant, he was generous. Over the years every holiday he had given very generous gifts.


    On the road to An Le Vige, An Jingzhi kept ncing at Zhi Xia.


    At first, Zhi Xia pretended not to notice. But eventually she couldn''t stand him looking at her strangely anymore and asked, "Do you have something to say?"


    An Jingzhi lightly coughed and said, "It''s nothing really. I just wanted to ask, Zhi Xia, all these years you''ve been quite friendly with others. Your attitude towards your mother has also improved somewhat. Although your father was muddled for a time, these past few years he''s treated you pretty decently, no? Can you not let go of the unpleasantness from back then?"


    "Then let me ask you a question," Zhi Xia said, looking at him.


    "Go ahead," said An Jingzhi. He wasn''t exactly young anymore. His sons all had their own careers, and while they weren''t tremendously sessful, they were still better off than average families.


    Logically speaking, he should be content. But the only knot in his heart was still Zhi Xia.


    He could see that behind Zhi Xia''sck of resentment on the surface, she still felt distant from him and Zhou Nan deep down.


    Of course, Zhou Nan''s position was much better than his as her father. In her heart there was no ce for him at all.


    "If Gao Meiyun were still alive, would you still care today about what my attitude is towards you?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    An Jingzhi suddenly fell silent, and seriously considered the question.


    After a while, he said, "There are no ''ifs'' in this world, and I can''t judge what it would be like if she were alive. But Zhi Xia, she has already passed away. We publicly severed ties with her in the family registry years ago. You are now the An family''s only daughter. Over the years your mother and I have never brought her up again, focusing all of our care on you instead. Dwelling on things and seeking vexation for oneself isn''t right, is it?"


    "You''re absolutely right," Zhi Xia responded, equally seriously. At the very least, he hadn''t chosen to deceive himself.


    But her gaze made An Jingzhi unable to look her in the eye.


    She had long stopped caring about past events, truly allowing bygones to be bygones.


    And so she no longer cared about them either.


    Zhi Xia felt that the way things were now was perfectly fine.


    What wasughable what that they missed Gao Meiyun, yet also wanted her genuine feelings.


    But in this world, could there really be such wonderfully perfect things?


    An Jingzhi also understood her meaning, and helplessly sighed.


    They both knew that they would never be able to have the kind of close parent-child intimacy of ordinary families. If they could maintain the current harmony, that was already the best oue.


    But the human heart was fickle. Sometimes they still inevitably harbored hopes and desires.


    An Le Vige.


    As soon as they entered the vige they attracted pointing and discussion.


    "Hey, where are you folks from? What are you doinging to our vige?"


    Neither Zhi Xia nor An Jingzhi recognized the speaker, so they casually responded, "We''vee to visit the vige chief''s home."


    "So you''re rtives of the vige chief''s family. No wonder you''re dressed so nicely."


    "Look at that woman, she''s so gorgeous she looks like a fairy!"


    "Isn''t that coat she''s wearing mink? I''ve only seen them at department stores in the city. They cost several hundred yuan a piece!"


    "Wow, they must be rich!"


    They would probably never guess that the woman they were currently gossiping about was none other than the insignificant de of grass Gao Xiaocao who had grown up in this very vige.


    When talking about Gao Dazhuang''s little daughter in the past, who didn''t sigh and cluck their tongue in pity?


    But that was the extent of it. In this remote vige where fists spoke louder than words, those who dared offend Gao Dazhuang to help her seemed to truly not exist.


    At least, there wasn''t a single specific person she could clearly remember after so many years that had been able to help her. She still felt like both the vige and everything in it were incredibly unfamiliar.


    Zhi Xia had long forgotten where the vige chief''s house was located, but An Jingzhi knew. She silently followed along behind An Jingzhi.


    The front gate of the vige chief''s house stood open. His entire family was in the courtyard, along with some other vigers.


    The vige chief was an old man with a goatee. He had seen An Jingzhi a few years ago because of the Gao family''s matters, and still remembered him even now.


    "Principal An, you''ve brought..." Faced with someone like An Jingzhi, a figure from the city, the vige chief didn''t dare look down on him. He was also rather unwee due to the previous incident, afraid that An Jingzhi''s arrival meant the Gao family was causing trouble again.


    "I''vee today to investigate some matters. Might we speak alone?" An Jingzhi said frankly.


    The others knew how to read the mood and quickly got up to take their leave.


    The vige chief weed them into the house. From time to time he nced at Zhi Xia, feeling she was both somehow familiar yet also aplete stranger. But he didn''t dare guess that she was actually Gao Xiaocao.


    "Chief Gao, you know that Gao Second Sister tested into university, correct? My main purpose ining today is to investigate how Gao Second Sister, as Gao Dazhuang''s daughter, was able to pass political examination," An Jingzhi said sharply, not bothering to take the small vige chief seriously at all. "The parents of this Gao Qingcheng are convicted criminals still in prison. That''s not something that can just be washed away by changing her name to Gao Qingcheng."


    Chief Gao instantly broke out into a cold sweat, though he had prepared excuses long ago in case things were exposed. But now that the truth wasid bare, he still couldn''t avoid feeling panicked and afraid.


    It was his own fault for greedily giving in to feelings of n loyalty in a moment of weakness.


    After taking care of things, he had felt regret many times since. But by then it was already toote. He had never expected that Gao Second Sister would truly test into university.


    Afterboriously swallowing, Chief Gao said, "Principal An, I don''t have the authority as a small vige chief to fake those records. As you know. And strictly speaking, this Gao Qingcheng can no longer be considered Gao Dazhuan''s daughter. Over two years ago she was adopted by another n member with no daughters, and her household registration and name were changed. So there were no issues during political examination."


    He wasn''t hiding anything whatsoever. Even if he had to take responsibility, it should be Gao Second Sister and the family that had adopted her. When people want to adopt children and change their household registration, he had no reason to refuse them. All he had provided was a certification to allow them to smoothlyplete the adoption.

 Chapter 297: Not Ordinary

    <h4>Chapter 297</h4>


    Gao Second Sister had already been adopted out two years ago, and the resumption of the college entrance examination was orderedst October. No one can say that she was adopted just for the college entrance examination.


    After leaving the vige chief��s house, An JingZhi said after leaving An Le Vige, "Don''t get involved in Gao Second Sister''s matter. I will resolve it."


    "How will you resolve it?" Zhi Xia looked at him doubtfully.


    An JingZhi smiled confidently, "Your dad has been in this position for so many years. It''s not like I don''t have any means. Regarding Gao Second Sister''s matter, just looking at the household registration, there is no problem. But she was adopted after bing an adult. Whether it is rted to Gao Da Zhuang cannot be concluded just by a household registration."


    Thew in this era is not yet perfect. For many things, they can only make judgments by feeling their way. Otherwise, people beaten to death in public criticism in previous years were just fine without taking any responsibility.


    Gao Second Sister wanted to use adoption to wash away the stain on herself, but that also depends on whether he agrees or not.


    When he returned to Zhou Vige again, Zhou Granny was sitting at the gate, gazing into the distance from time to time.


    Seeing An JingZhi and Zhi Xiaing, she hurriedly stood up, "You are here, just in time for lunch. Hurry up and wash your hands to prepare for the meal!"


    It was indeed time for lunch. It would be strange to say that one is not hungry now.


    Fortunately, Older Aunt prepared a lot of dishes. She must have intentionally made more, knowing that they woulde. Anyway, the weather was cool now, even if there were leftovers, they could eat them in the afternoon without wasting them.


    After eating, they did not stay for long. Zhou Granny had already packed up the clean clothes. An JingZhi took her and the two live chickens she grabbed, and took Zhou Granny back to the city together.


    On the way, Zhou Granny was obviously very excited, talking to Zhi Xia from time to time, and Zhi Xia responded.


    By the time they returned home, it was already mid-afternoon.


    It was Zhi Xia who had insisted on picking her up. Naturally, she had to follow An JingZhi to settle Zhou Granny down before leaving.


    Zhou Nan was still very excited to see his own mother arrive and hurriedly weed her into the room.


    Zhi Xia chatted for a while, and when she saw it was almost time, she stood up politely, "Granny, there are still children at home. I have to go back too, otherwise why don''t youe with me to my house?"


    Zhou Nan quickly stopped her, "Don''t let your granny go. You still have to go to school tomorrow and can��t stay home. It��s hard for granny toe once. Let her stay at home and I will keep herpany well."


    Although Zhou Granny had never been to Zhi Xia��s house, she had been to Old Master��s side and knew that Zhi Xia was next to Old Master.


    "Zhi Xia, it''s toote today. I won''t go over. Let your mother take me to see your grandfather and grandmother tomorrow, and I will also go to your house to see the few children." Zhou Granny would definitely prefer to stay with her own daughter. Although Zhi Xia was her granddaughter, she was not a child raised by her side. She was afraid of being disliked if they were together, which would be awkward.


    "Okay, then I''ll go back first ande to see you when I have time." Zhi Xia got up and went out the door.


    She went to school early the next day, and Zhou Granny had just arrived, so she couldn��t notify her. But she did leave some things behind and asked Sister Zhang to pass them to Zhou Granny if she came, which was also a little heartfelt gift for the olddy.


    An JingZhi''s actions were still very quick.


    Until Wednesday, as soon as Gao Second Sister entered the school, she was called into the principal''s office and informed that she had been expelled.


    No matter how much she pleaded, it was useless.


    She could only me herself. Her original seamless n had overlooked that she needed to stay away from An JingZhi��s family.


    If she hadn''t insisted on staying in Jin City, she could have used Gao QingCheng''s identity toplete college in another ce without anyone discovering it.


    But the things she knew from Gao MeiYun''s diary were all things that happened in Jin City. Once she left here, she would be blind. That''s why she dared to take such risks.


    Unfortunately, she still couldn''t escape detection in the end.


    Soon, the incident where Gao QingCheng as the daughter of a criminal but changed her identity to take the college entrance examination was announced to the whole school.


    The usually very active ss monitor suddenly became silent.


    In the past few days, he had been the most active in collecting money from all students in the ss to visit Gao QingCheng. Many people didn''t refuse considering that he was the ss monitor. But now it was an obvious p in the face.


    After school, Zhi Xia rode her bike on the road, humming a song in high spirits.


    At the corner, Gao Second Sister suddenly rushed out to block her way.


    Zhi Xia was startled and subconsciously gripped the brakes, but when she saw it was Gao Second Sister, she deliberately collided with her.


    At the moment the bike fell down, she used her feet to steady herself.


    Gao Second Sister fell to the ground. Her face was originally still pale due to illness, but it made her look even more charming.


    Really, at that very moment, Zhi Xia suddenly saw the shadow of Gao MeiYun in her.


    Well, between sisters, some simrities were inevitable.


    "What are you trying to do?" Zhi Xia looked at her mockingly. Compared to Gao MeiYun, she was much smarter and knew to endure.


    Unfortunately, after witnessing her vicious and ruthless side, Zhi Xia would not be fooled by her.


    "An Zhi Xia, you promised me that as long as I listened to you and jumped down, the past grievances would be written off. But you didn''t keep your promise." Gao Second Sister didn''t believe that her expulsion had nothing to do with her.


    After all, except for her, no one else hated herself so much.


    "Didn''t you learn from me not to keep promises?" Zhi Xia was not nervous at all, "Gao Second Sister, have you forgotten how many vicious things you have done? What makes you think I must forgive you?"


    Gao Second Sister certainly hadn''t forgotten. She was just used to it. She still regarded Zhi Xia as the little poor thing whom she had bullied since childhood.


    "What do you have to do to let us go?"


    The same words triggered Zhi Xia''s memories again.


    "Sister, what can you do to not dislike me?"


    "Why don''t you just die? No one will dislike you when you''re dead."


    The same words came again today, only the roles werepletely reversed, "Why don''t you just die? I will let you go when you are dead."


    Her pink lips uttered words without warmth, making Gao Second Sister shiver violently.


    Zhi Xia''s shoulder was suddenly pulled back by someone, she lost her bnce and fell to the ground.


    "An Zhi Xia, how can you bully people like this?" Pei JianGuo came today to pick up Guo Momo. Because they had quarreled a few days ago, Guo Momo had been living in the dormitory for the past two days. He had finally plucked up the courage toe and make up today, but unexpectedly saw this scene.


    Did An Zhi Xia��s family know that she was bullying people like this at school? Did younger uncle know?


    "Comrade, are you alright?" Pei JianGuo stretched out his hand to Gao Second Sister, but the moment he saw her, his eyes suddenly tightened.


    Gao Second Sister ced her hand on his, used his strength to stand up, and her soft body swayed unsteadily. "Thank you."


    Due to fear and cold, her voice trembled, making the bullying seem even more real.


    Zhi Xia got up from the ground by herself. There was a piercing pain in her palm. When she looked at it, there was clearly an abrasion.


    When she looked up again, Pei JianGuo''s eyes were still on Gao Second Sister''s face, with obvious struggle and distress.


    "Humph!"


    Although she didn''t want to involve Guo Momo, she still couldn''t help but want to sigh at her blindness. How could she have liked this jerk?


    It was useless tomunicate with an idiot. Zhi Xia pushed her bike resignedly.


    Fortunately, her legs were not injured, so she could still ride.


    When Pei JianGuo came back to his senses, he suddenly realized what a stupid thing he had done.


    Even if what An Zhi Xia did was wrong, he had recklessly pushed down an elder. If An Zhi Xia went to report this, no matter whether it was younger uncle or those in the An family, he was no match for any of them.


    Moreover, when he looked back, An Zhi Xia had already left, making him even more panicked internally.


    "Comrade, I still don''t know your name. Will this get you into trouble?" Gao Second Sister looked at the other party''s neatly dressed factory-made clothes, quite new, adding up to at least 20 yuan above and below, plus the leather shoes on his feet, at least 30 yuan at the bottom. In this day and age, anyone who can wear one or two months'' wages on their body must be extraordinary.


    Of course, Pei JianGuo dressed up neatly today toe and apologize and admit defeat, in order to coax Guo Momo back. In addition, he was handsome. He did look impressive.


    Otherwise, Guo Momo, who was such a clever girl, could not have been pulled down into the fire pit in the first ce.


    Moreover, ever since Wang Yue wanted to take back his heart, he had properly prepared several outfits for him.


    After all he was his own son. If it wasn''t for his disobedience in insisting on marrying Guo Momo, no matter how reluctant Wang Yue was, he could not be stingy with his precious egg.


    "My name is Pei JianGuo. I help those in need when I see injustice. I won''t get in your way." Pei JianGuo remembered his own business, and drew his gaze back from Gao Second Sister''s face that bore some resemnce to Guo Momo''s. He was about to leave.


    However, the three characters Pei JianGuo made Gao Second Sister''s heart skip a beat.


    Originally there was no opportunity for her to get in contact with the An family and the Pei family. This was a good chance from heaven.


    Moreover, ording to the ount of that wretched girl, Pei JianGuo''s existence was no ordinary one.

 Chapter 298: Mea culpa

    <h4>Chapter 298</h4>


    There was another person surnamed Zhao, what was his name again?


    She couldn''t quite remember.


    But both of them were either An Meixia''s lover or An Meixia''s man.


    However, the events of this life seemed to deviate greatly from what was recorded.


    An Meixia became An ZhiXia, and An ZhiXia married Pei Jing. There was no mention of Pei JianGuo or Zhao Runze at all.


    She had originally intended to avoid conflicts with An ZhiXia, but she found herself with no other choice. Gao Second Sister had worked so hard to get into university in her senior year of high school. How could she swallow this resentment?


    As she looked at Pei JianGuo, Gao Second Sister''s expression changed instantly.


    With a face that already resembled Gao Meiyun''s, she appeared even more simr after her deliberate disguise.


    An ZhiXia didn''t dare to confront Pei JianGuo physically. They had obvious differences in physique, and she would definitely be at a disadvantage if they fought.


    Don''t say that Pei JianGuo wouldn''t dare to use force. He had a history of domestic violence in his previous life, although he hadn''tid a hand on a woman in this life. But who knew what might happen if he was pushed too far?


    Fuming with anger, she returned home, and the children were already there.


    Pei ChenYe, with sharp eyes, noticed the dirt on the hem of her clothes and hurried over. "Mom, did you fall?"


    An ZhiXia nced down but didn''t want toin to the children. She said, "I identally fell. Mom will go change clothes first. Have you and your sister finished your homework?"


    "It''s done."


    Pei ChenYe replied, but as she turned around, he keenly noticed that her backside and back were dirty, and there was a ck-red mark on her left palm.


    An ZhiXia went into the house to change her clothes and tended to the scrape on her palm. But in her heart, she was contemting how to exact revenge on Pei JianGuo.


    Seeing the look of shock on Pei JianGuo''s face when she fell, he probably didn''t intentionally push her. It was just a momentary impulse that he used too much force.


    An ZhiXia wouldn''t go too far with him, but it was absolutely impossible for her to swallow this indignation.


    However, what she didn''t expect was that before she coulde up with a n, Pei JianGuo came over.


    He knocked on the door, and An ZhiXia came out of the room, guarded and coldly asked, "What are you here for? Did you not find my fall pathetic enough? Did you follow me here to continue?"


    Pei JianGuo''s eyes were filled with guilt as he stiffly spoke, "I''m sorry, Sister-inw, I didn''t mean it. Please have mercy and forgive me."


    "No forgiveness unless you let me strike back," An ZhiXia said with a cold smile.


    She had already scraped her palm and turned it red. A simple forgiveness wouldn''t be enough. It wasn''t that easy.


    Pei JianGuo hesitated for a moment, seemingly not expecting such a demand from her.


    But regardless of the reason, it was indeed his fault for using force against an elder. He had to bear the consequences.


    It must be said that despite Pei JianGuo''s many ws, under the guidance of Old Pei''s teachings and the influence of his surroundings, he still had some basic moral values.


    Of course, this only applied to the present. The future might be a different story.


    In the previous life, he became more and more excessive as time went on, although various factors yed a role.


    Pei JianGuo hesitated for a moment, then suddenly turned and went towards Old Pei''s room.


    It has been several years since Old Pei passed away, and most of the things associated with him have been burned with his departure. However, a few items have been preserved.


    One such item is the stick that Old Pei once used to discipline Pei Jing.


    An ZhiXia didn''t know what he intended to do. After hesitating for a moment, she decided to follow him.


    She saw Pei JianGuo retrieve the stick from under the bed and hand it to her. "Use this to strike. In the past, when my uncle made a mistake, grandpa would use this stick to punish him. It can be considered the disciplinary tradition of our Pei family. Even if you provoked the situation first, it was my fault for pushing you down. You deserve this beating."


    As soon as ZhiXia took the stick, his words stunned her. "Pei JianGuo, there''s nothing wrong with standing up for justice, but do you know the reasons and circumstances behind the incident? You meddle so much in other people''s affairs and show such concern for other women, but why haven''t you shown the same care for your own wife and children?"


    Pei JianGuo fell silent. He genuinely didn''t know the reasons behind it. At that time, he only saw An ZhiXia bullying someone and acted impulsively. Even the act of pulling her was an unconscious behavior. He didn''t actually want to make her fall.


    He admitted his mistake. "Go ahead and strike me." After saying that, he knelt on the ground, facing the direction of the main seat, where Old Pei used to sit.


    Grandpa was no longer there, and the only person who used to discipline him was gone too.


    Pei JianGuo often wondered if Grandpa were still alive, he would surely worry about his well-being, but perhaps he wouldn''t have ended up in this state of estrangement with Guo Momo and his father''s generation.


    He wasn''t the ignorant young boy anymore. He disliked how Wang Yue always tried to sabotage the rtionship between him and Momo, as well as between his father and uncle. However, at the same time, he longed to be cared for.


    When there was only Wang Yue by his side, the only person willing to show him affection, he was easily manipted.


    As for Guo Momo, he didn''t know when it started, maybe it was during her hospitalization, her love for him had disappeared. Even if she still pretended, she might not be aware that her gaze towards him was mostly cold and disdainful.


    Pei JianGuo didn''t understand why his life had turned out this way. Clearly, they were deeply in love in the beginning, and he yearned to live with her. And she, with her heart and eyes, was all about him.


    He brought this upon himself, and An ZhiXia wouldn''t hold back. The sticknded on his body with a dull thud, and Pei JianGuo groaned in pain, his brows furrowed in agony.


    After two strikes, An ZhiXia suddenly felt that she wasn''t suited to be an executioner, nor could she harden her heart.


    "Forget it, my hand hurts from hitting you." An ZhiXia threw away the stick. "As for you, now that you''ve realized your mistake, focus on your own family. There are many unfortunate people in this world, and you''re already luckier than most. If you can''t manage your own family under these circumstances, look within yourself for the reasons instead of ming others. Momo, in the beginning, had a wholehearted desire to live a good life with you, and even PingAn, he could have been a healthy child."


    Zhi Xia wasn''t sure how much of her words Pei Jianguo would take to heart. She was never one to meddle in other people''s families, but perhaps it was Pei Jianguo''s actions today that made her feel a sense of responsibility, prompting her to offer a few words of advice.


    If he could listen and change for the better, and live a good life with Mo Mo, it would be considered a prodigal son''s return.


    If he couldn''t listen, then whatever kind of life he led in the future would be his own doing, but it would be a pity for Mo Mo and Ping An, the mother and son.


    Pei Jianguo remained silent for a while, and Zhi Xia urged him, "It''s getting dark, you should hurry back to your own home. I don''t want to keep you for dinner since your uncle isn''t here."


    "I want to stay with Grandfather a bit longer," Pei Jianguo said.


    "Suit yourself," Zhi Xia replied and walked out.


    Pei Jianguo closed the door, and Zhi Xia sighed. When she turned around, she saw Chen Ye standing at the doorway of the room, looking at her.


    Zhi Xia put her hands in her pockets and walked over with a smile, exining, "Your brother Jianguo wanted to be with Grandfather for a while. Oh, by the way, has Sister Zhang finished cooking?"


    Sister Zhang replied from the kitchen, "It''s ready to be served. Have the kids wash their hands, and we can start."


    Zhi Xia filled the sses with water and called out, and the triplets came running with Little Liu in tow.


    It was clear that there was some conflict between Pei Jianguo and Zhi Xia. She didn''t invite Pei Jianguo to have dinner, and Sister Zhang didn''t take the initiative either.


    After so many years at home, Zhi Xia had developed some insight. But ultimately, they were the children she had watched grow up, and Sister Zhang also felt sorry for Pei Jianguo. She quietly left him a bowl of food and pushed open Old Pei''s room while Zhi Xia was in the dining room with the children.


    What surprised her, however, was that the cab in the room was open, and Pei Jianguo was hugging Old Pei''s framed photo, crying like a child.


    The scene was embarrassingly awkward, and Sister Zhang regretted interfering.


    When Pei Jianguo heard someone pushing the door, he quickly wiped away his tears, not wanting anyone to see him in such a pitiful state, but he couldn''t avoid it.


    "Jianguo, I''ve filled a bowl of food for you. Eat quickly," Sister Zhang said anxiously, cing the meal on the table and hurrying out.


    In the dining room, Pei Chenye reminded Zhi Xia, "Mom, Sister Zhang brought food for Pei Jianguo."


    Zhi Xia had known all along, but she didn''t intentionally expose it. She wasn''t unwilling to spare a bowl of food. "Eat your meal, and also, you should call him ''brother.'' It''s impolite to address him by his name."


    The conflicts between adults had nothing to do with the children, and Pei Jianguo had been good to his brothers. When she first brought Chen Ye and Wanqing back, he even helped take care of them. But for some reason, when it came to her own child, he seemed unsure of how to lend a hand.


    Zhi Xia couldn''t quite understand Pei Jianguo. He was a person full of contradictions, always wavering between good and bad, repeatedly testing the patience and boundaries of others.


    When Sister Zhang came in, they had already served the food. Zhi Xia quickly called out to her, "Sister Zhang, don''t bother with the rush. Come and have your meal."


    "Alright, I''ming," Sister Zhang replied, still feeling a bit guilty and avoiding Zhi Xia''s gaze.


    After all, Old Pei was gone, and now it was Zhi Xia who was in charge.


    She took Zhi Xia''s money but felt sympathy for Pei JianGuo.


    Sister Zhang went home after finishing her meal, and Zhi Xia took the kids out for a stroll. When they returned, Pei JianGuo was no longer there.


    Old Pei''s tablet was hidden back in the cab, but traces of it being opened could still be seen.


    In the past few years, there had been a crackdown on supernatural beings, so the tablet was kept hidden in the cab and taken out only during worship. It was an unspoken agreement among the family members.


    On this point, Zhi Xia could understand Pei JianGuo.


    To Pei JianGuo, the two elders who loved him the most were Old Pei and Wang Yue.


    Unlike Wang Yue''s terrifying control, Old Pei was the one who genuinely loved Pei JianGuo and made him feel truly rxed.


    So, in both lives, starting from Old Pei''s passing, Pei JianGuo had made his life even more chaotic.

 Chapter 299: Life is your choice.

    <h4>Chapter 299</h4>


    Pei JianGuo''s initiative to admit his mistake prevented ZhiXia from telling Pei Jing about it. As Pei JianGuo left this ce, he wandered the streets in a daze, circling around once, yet his heart felt increasingly empty.


    Home was also empty.


    He had originally nned to pick up Guo Momo to bring her home today, but something happened on the way that required him to hastily send thedy to the hospital and rush over here to apologize to ZhiXia, without even getting to see Guo Momo��s face.


    He seemed to have forgotten something, what was it again?


    He couldn''t quite recall it.


    Extremely annoyed, there was always a sense of irritation hovering in his heart.


    Since he would be alone when he went back now, he simply went out drinking with good friends instead.


    Pei ChenYe, on the other hand, secretly slipped out while ZhiXia was busy taking care of Xiao Liu, and went next door to Old Grandpa''s house to call Pei Jing.


    In order to facilitate contact, plus Old Grandpa''s seniority level was high enough, they spent a lot of moneyst year to install a telephone.


    Pei ChenYe had always been precocious and understood some things without needing to be told, just because he didn''t talk about them didn''t mean he didn''t understand.


    When Pei Jing received the call, he had just finished today''s training after a day of tumbling around covered in mud in the mountains. He had just washed off the mud when that shameless An ZhiAng attacked him again.


    Such things had long bemonce. In the beginning, everyone would still pinch a cold sweat for An ZhiAng, butter, after fully understanding Pei Jing, they would even join An ZhiAng in his sneak attacks, determined to take down this instructor.


    But unfortunately, they always fell short by a little bit.


    ZhiXia felt someone else��s presence in the space while she was sleeping. She opened her tired eyes to see little Liu sleeping soundly next to her before entering the space.


    Pei Jing was originally sitting on the soft sofa when ZhiXia suddenly appeared beside him. She snuggled weakly against his shoulder and he reflexively put his arm around her to hug her in his embrace.


    Looking at his delicate wife in his arms who couldn��t even keep her eyes open, Pei Jing recalled ChenYe''s tattling and his gaze darkened as he took her hand and turned it palm-side up.


    Sure enough, there were abrasions all over her palm.


    At this moment, ZhiXia also instantly woke up and opened her eyes wide.


    "Why didn''t you tell me?" As the owner of this space, ZhiXia could summon him whenever she wanted to see him, although he had the right to refuse entering.


    Only then did ZhiXia realize what he was referring to. "How did you know? Did ChenYe tattle on me?"


    In the family, only he was the smart one. The younger ones were still small, and WanQing was carefree and boyish, no one else would have tattled except him.


    But Pei Jing was dissatisfied with her changing the subject. "You still haven''t answered me, why didn''t you tell me?"


    ZhiXia snuggled up to him coquettishly in his arms. ��I did intend to tell you, so you could teach your silly nephew a good lesson for me. It��s not like I��m Guo Momo who can let him bully me as he wishes. But before I had the chance, he came over to apologize and even brought the stick Father left behind for me to hit him with. I had already avenged myself so I didn��t tell you about it anymore.��


    "But you still shouldn''t have kept it from me. Next time something happens you have to tell me first thing." If it weren''t for ChenYe who had grown up and knew to call him, who knows when he would have found out about ZhiXia''s injuries by the time they met, and her wounds might have already healed.


    "I know, I know, my Instructor Pei!" ZhiXia joked deliberately: "This little thing of mine is nothing. But it seems your good nephew and Momo are in more serious trouble."


    Speaking of this, she suddenly recalled something and looked intensely at Pei Jing, "There''s something off about you. He''s your nephew and has gotten himself into this situation, yet you don''t intend to do anything about it?"


    This was not Pei Jing''s style at all.


    Even knowing what happened in the previous life, the people at fault were Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang. When you look closely, Pei JianGuo was also a victim. Pei Jing had always clearly distinguished grievances and gratitude, and he ced extreme importance on familial bonds. Even if he was dissatisfied with Pei JianGuo at first, after such a long time, he shouldn��t still resent Pei JianGuo.


    "However he chooses to live his life is his own choice. No one can rece him.�� Pei Jing''s voice was somewhat cold.


    But he had interferedst time. After all, he was single back then without children, so inevitably he cared more about Pei JianGuo.


    After Old Pei passed away and Pei Yong was always in the army, it was him who managed everything in the family.


    Pei Jing had great self-restraint, but he couldn��t restrain other people''s thoughts.


    Someone like Pei JianGuo would wear out whoever lived with him.


    Patiently persuading him would work for a while, but within days, his old bad habits would rpse again.


    In Pei Jing��s memories from his previous life, he had controlled Pei JianGuo for a whole lifetime before finding out the truth on his deathbed, and he had almost died from anger in his sickbed.


    In this life, he didn��t want to torment himself anymore.


    They were all adults now. As long as JianGuo didn��t breakws or disciplines, it was fine.


    Besides, Pei Jing was also in the army himself, gone for ten days or half a month at a time, unable to spend time with his own six children, let alone have the heart to discipline an adult nephew.

 Chapter 300: Want to Skip a Grade

    <h4>Chapter 300</h4>


    "It''s a pity for Momo Guo and Little Ping''an," Zhi Xia said. How could she possibly feel sorry for Pei Jianguo? In her heart, it had always been only Ping''an.


    If Pei Yuhano in that life was just unlucky in childhood, while Ping''an also had physical deficiencies, plus this child was born and raised in front of him, and she was also a mother herself, it was inevitable that she would be a little more emotional.


    When ites to daughter-inw Momo Guo, Pei Jing didn''t want to express any opinion.


    As he said, they were all adults now, and everyone should bear the consequences of their own choices.


    Besides, in his opinion, Momo Guo''s purpose was not simple when she married Pei Jianguo. Although Pei Jianguo was not a good person, these years with Elder Brother taking care of them and subsidizing them, at least they would not be wronged in terms of money, living conditions and mother and son.


    As for their husband and wife feelings, no one else could intervene in that. Otherwise, even Wang Yue, who was so upset at the time, would not have failed to stop their marriage.


    After a brief gathering, Pei Jing soon left.


    When he opened the door, he saw the lingering An Zhiang outside.


    "What are you doing? I knocked on your dormitory door for a long time and you didn''t open it." Anyway, there were no outsiders around. An Zhiang sat casually in the position of his big uncle, looking casual.


    He curiously peeked into the room and wondered, "You''re not doing something bad alone, are you?"


    Seeing him talk more and more crookedly, Pei Jing unceremoniously began to drive people away. "If you are really free, you might as well run an extra 5 kilometers to improve your strength."


    "Don''t..." Having been taught many lessons, An Zhiang quickly begged for mercy. "I have something to do. I just caught a wild piglet on the mountain. It happens to be an extra meal for Instructor Pei. Let''s go barbecue!"


    Pei Jing was half pulled and half dragged by An Zhiang.


    After dawn, he still chose to call Pei Jianguo during his work time.


    Although the matter was over yesterday, since the matter involved Gao''s people, and that person was Gao Second Sister, they had to be more careful to prevent the possibility of Gao Second Sister making trouble in the middle.


    He told Pei Jianguo about Gao Second Sister''s identity and hoped that he could be smarter this time and not be used by people with intentions again.


    The matter was over.


    Before Momo Guo intended to divorce Pei Jianguo, it was impossible for her to make things too stiff.


    So after Pei Jianguo came to find her, she took the opportunity to get out of the affair and went back with him.


    With Gao Second Sister not wandering in front of her eyes, life returned to its usual calm.


    The cherry and jujube trees in the backyard grew very vigorously. It was the season to eat cherries. The umbre-shaped cherry tree pruned branches were full of red fruit, which made people delighted.


    Chenye and Wanqing each took a basket to pick cherries, while Momo Guo and Zhi Xia picked the higher ones.


    "Sister-inw, the variety of this cherry tree in your family seems to be different from the ones in our side. The fruit grown feels much bigger, the color is heavier, it tastes sweeter when eaten, not sour at all, and it is also high-yielding. Where did you get the tree? Seeing it makes me want to nt two trees too."


    Although her home was an apartment building, there was still open space around it, so it was still possible to nt two fruit trees.


    It was just that, unlike here which was their own backyard, they would have to guard it carefully when the fruits ripened, otherwise someone else might pick the fruits.


    "It was Chenye��s dad''s friend. If you want to nt it, I''ll let him give you two trees. You can harvest them next year after nting them down." Of course, she couldn''t tell Sister Zhang about the tree she got from her space.


    "That would be great. I��ll buy the trees myself then." This was where Momo Guo was smarter. She knew she couldn��t expect everything cheap even with family, but it was normal to get some convenience with family ties, but she couldn��t expect people to help get trees for her and still pay for them.


    "It��s fine." Zhi Xia said casually.


    More than half of the cherries on the cherry tree were ripe. Three baskets were picked from the temte-sized baskets. Zhi Xia let Momo Guo take away a basket, gave half a basket to the olddy next door, half a basket to Sister Zhang, and the rest was going to be sent to the An family.


    As for the family''s own consumption, there were still cherries on the tree. More would ripen when the time came, and even if they couldn''t finish eating them, the remaining ones would just rot.


    Besides, this cherry tree was originally abundant in harvest. She still had the space to cheat. Her children at home nevercked food.


    "Mom,e here." Chenye called her from inside the house.


    Sister Zhang had gone home to deliver cherries. Zhi Xia hurried in to ask him, "What''s up?"


    "I want to discuss something with you." Chenye rarely smiled so tteringly.


    As the eldest son in the family, he had always had the demeanor of being a brother. Both Pei Jing and Zhi Xia were also very aware to establish his prestige as the eldest brother for him. He was also very patient in disciplining his younger siblings, and was always the most sensible one.


    But this childish side made Zhi Xia clearly realize that he was still just a child.


    "What does baby want to discuss with me?" Zhi Xia rarely hugged him now. It would be very strenuous for her to hug a seven or eight-year-old child. Only when Pei Jing came back could he still enjoy his father''s embrace.


    "I want to skip grades and go to fourth grade. I''ve already learned what I''m learning now at Grandpa''s house. It feels so meaningless to study it again. It''s a pure waste of time." As this semester was nearing its end, so he eagerly made this request.


    Chenye was different from Wanqing. That girl was quite smart, she was justzy and didn''t like studying. She loved to run around outside more.


    Chenye never liked going out since he was little. He liked to lock himself in the room and then go to the space to y with building blocks and puzzles.


    Those puzzles with thousands of pieces that looked daunting to Zhi Xia, he could alreadyplete them alone.


    Also because his needs were different from others, Zhi Xia reluctantly expanded a toy room for him.


    After all, except for him and Wanqing, the triplets and Little Six still shared a bedroom.


    Star coins were hard toe by. She wanted to improve their physique and abilities when the children came of age, so she could only make do like this for now. She nned to slowly expand itter when she earned more.


    "Does Grandpa know? What did he say?" An Jingzhi must have more experience in education.


    When she still felt that children should enjoy their childhood well before going to school, An Jingzhi had already guided them to work hard towards learning.


    The effect was also remarkable. Wenqing and Chenye were very sessful in this regard. Although Wanqing was more yful, she was also slowly getting into studying. The two siblings even tied for first ce in thest exam.


    "Grandpa suggested that I take it slow and try skipping to third grade first, but I still feel that I already know all those stuff and learning it again is meaningless."


    An Jingzhi gave such a suggestion not because he was afraid Chenye couldn''t keep up with schoolwork, but because many children started school veryte for various reasons. It was verymon for children to just start first grade at the age of 10. The fourth and fifth graders were quite tall already. He was mainly still worried that Chenye would have a psychological gap when he reached fourth grade and couldn''t y with other children.


    In these years, the most rxing thing for Zhou Nan was not having to take care of several children''s studies. An Jingzhi didn''t even trust her to be in charge. Only in this matter would he take things into his own handspletely.

 Chapter 301: Who Wants too much Money

    <h4>Chapter 301</h4>


    Chenye eventually decided to let Pei Chenye proceed ording to his own ideas.


    He had already mastered all the knowledge he had learned so far, and it was easy for him to cause the knowledge the teacher was teaching to be something he didn''t want to study all over again, and develop bad learning habits over time.


    "Zhang''s wife went back home for a while, and she wille overter. Mom just went to your aunt''s house to deliver cherries, just in time to talk about your skip level with your aunt." Chenye and Wanqing happened to be led by Liu Ling in ss, and they were all their own people, so the two children Things at school can make her worry a lot less.


    Of course, Zhi Xia was also very good to Liu Ling and the others. Anyway, if it wasn''t for her, I don''t know when Liu Ling''s second child would be born.


    Pei Chenye made another request, "I have read all those books, so get me some more."


    Although he had never witnessed it with his own eyes, he could guess that there must be other magical ces in that space.


    My mother can always make all kinds of strange things that others don''t have. From childhood to adulthood, his toys, food and drink are the best proof.


    And those books that the outside world doesn''t have, although you have to be very careful when reading them, and you can''t let others find out, but the things inside are really novel.


    "Okay, if you have any other needs, think about it all at once and then tell me." Zhi Xia said.


    Pei Chenye was really thinking about it seriously, took out paper and pen and started nning the things he needed.


    Zhi Xia went to An''s house, but unfortunately Liu Ling was not at home. She could only mention Chenye''s skip level to An Jingzhi, and asked him to pass it on when Liu Ling came back.


    Zhou Nan took over the basket of cherries, washed a bowl and ced them beside them, "Why bring so many? Are there any left at home?"


    "There are still some on the tree that haven''t been picked yet. These two days have been ripe, and you can pick a lot every day."


    After hearing Zhi Xia''s answer, Zhou Nan was relieved.


    An Zhiren and his wife took the children to Beijing. In order to strive for quotas, An ZhiXian often worked night shifts, and even his shadow could not be seen. There were only Liu Ling and the children at home. Although they still lived together, Liu Ling was angry. , takes the little one to school every day, and Zhou Nan suddenly rxes a lot.


    Zhi Xia said a few words and left.


    When I got home, I saw Wanqing bringing the triplets in the yard to listen to the radio. There were washed cherries on the small wooden table. Yuanbao was nesting in a corner of the table, while Da Huang was under the table, but there was no sign of Xiao Liu .


    When he arrived at the backyard, he discovered that Xiao Liu was sitting alone on the branches of the cherry tree, leaning leisurely against the trunk, putting cherries from his little hand into his mouth.


    Zhi Xia stood under the tree. He happened to be a little above her head. "Pei Chenyou, the cherries picked from the tree go directly into your mouth, is it dirty or not?"


    "It''s not dry or dirty, and it won''t get sick if you eat it." Pei Chenyou said the catchphrase he had heard, and suddenly his expression changed, and he yelled oooh.


    Zhi Xia opened her arms to catch him as he jumped into her arms, but her hand was still covering her neck.


    "What''s the matter?" Zhi Xia hurriedly pushed away his hand to take a look, but saw a dead ant under his finger, and there was a red dot on his neck where the ant had bitten.


    "Let''s see if you still dare to climb trees in the future. There are ants all over the trees, and there may even be caterpirs. Now you''ve been stung!" Zhi Xia carried him and walked to the front, Still can''t forget to scare him, so that he won''t climb trees again in the future.


    The cherry tree at home is not very high. What if he falls while climbing a tree outside?


    After entering the house, I also found ointment to apply to him.


    The final exams came soon. During the exams, Pei Chenye used the fourth grade test papers. Even so, the results were still very good, only one point less than the first ce, ranking second.


    When Wanqing learned that he would be in the fourth grade at the beginning of the new semester, she was still angry for a long time afterwards, and then there was a very obvious change, and she also worked hard in her studies.


    After the exam, the holidays arrived, and An Zhiren and his wife also returned from Beijing.


    Zhi Xia apanied Grandpa and Grandma on the way to An''s house, followed by six children.


    Today, Wanqing is very rarely wearing a skirt, a moon-white princess skirt with a waist design, flowers at the neckline and waist, pearls between the flowers, her hair tied into a ponytail at the back of her head, and also wearing a A hoop, when quiet, it really looks like a little princess.


    Zhi Xia was wearing almost the same style, only the fabric and color were different. She ran up to hold her hand and could still hear her whispering coquettishly, "Mom, do I look good in a skirt?"


    "That''s so beautiful." Zhi Xiaplimented her without any hesitation.


    When I arrived at An''s house, I just started eating.


    Zhi Xia rarely drinks, mainly because the white wine they drink is too spicy. However, beer was specially avable on the table today. She guessed that this meal was very grand.


    Sure enough, An Jingzhi was obviously in a good mood and said, "Our family has two big events today..." He said halfway, looking at Grandpa, "Dad, or you can talk about it."


    "The first thing is that Zhiren and his wife are back. Today we just happened to take this opportunity to get together when the family is together. It��s a pity that Boss and Fourth Brother Pei Jing are missing, so let��s ignore them. The second big event is ZhiXian. The study abroad quota has been determined, and he will go abroad in half a month for at least a year before he cane back." Grandpa smiled.


    "Really, congrattions to the third brother." I have heard about this quota sincest year. An ZhiXian has also been working hard for this. He has been busy these six months without touching the ground. It seems that it was not in vain after all.


    Liu Ling suddenly thought of something, "I heard that most of the people who were demoted in the past have now been rehabilitated, and the confiscated property will also be returned. Our family..."


    When Liu Ling married into the An family , there was nothing left in the family, but she had also heard from the elders in the family about the former glory of the An family, so she suddenly brought this up.


    Grandpa''s smile faded a little, but he didn''t hide it either, "Our family has also received the news, but there are still some formalities to go through. This matter is being handled by your father. I don''t know much about it either."


    He has only one son and many grandsons.


    I originally wanted to wait for my grandsons to grow up, and now each has his own career. It would be nice to divide the family property when things are finalized, so as to avoid conflicts of interest in the end and hurt feelings.


    But the property hasn''t been figured out yet, and the daughter-inw is already impatient. He is not very happy.


    Liu Ling may have also realized that she shouldn''t have said it, and hurriedly said, "I just asked casually about what others said. After all, our family is different from the demoted personnel. I don''t know much about these things either."


    It is a good thing that property can be returned, An Zhiren and An ZhiXian did not see anything wrong with it, andpared with Liu Ling''s impatience, Zheng Suchun''s eyes were obviously much brighter after hearing about this.


    That''s right, who would think there is too much money?


    Zhi Xia didn''t care. It was one aspect that she was notcking, and another aspect was that ording to the current situation, the distribution of family property was the son''s business, so daughters shouldn''t think too much about it.


    When the old grandfather prepared that dowry at the beginning, the An family was still rich. Although the big items were gone, what was left was the essence. In addition to a small box of gold bars, the other two boxes were full of gold, silver and jewellery. extremely spectacr.

 Chapter 302: Family Property

    <h4>Chapter 302</h4>


    The dining table suddenly went quiet, and no one spoke another word.


    At daybreak, Zhi Xia had gotten up early.


    Sister Zhang carried in some fresh vegetables she had bought from outside, saw Zhi Xia exercising in the yard, and hesitantly said, ��Zhi Xia, I can see that you��re able to take care of the children yourself during this vacation. I won��t be much help here, so why don��t Ie back after you start teaching again?��


    This would also save her a sry. Although her own ie would be reduced, Sister Zhang was a grateful person who hadn��t forgotten the circumstances under which Zhi Xia had hired her.


    Zhi Xia was startled for a moment. ��Does Sister Zhang have things to do at home that she doesn��t have time toe over?��


    ��It��s not that I have anything to do. I just feel that since you can handle things yourself during this vacation, it would be a waste to pay me a sry. I know you have a kind heart and treat me well, so I naturally think of you too," Sister Zhang said. "You don''t need to worry about me. I see that policies have rxed now and there are more vendors outside. On my way here, the alley was filled with people selling vegetables, and there was also someone selling fried dough sticks who had opened up shop. So I was thinking I could do some small business on the side to supplement our family ie, ande back to take care of the children after you start teaching again.��


    Zhi Xia roughly understood her meaning. She went up and said, "Sister Zhang, if you don''t want to work for me because you want to run a small business, I would definitely let you go. But if you n to temporarily leave for two months to save me money, there is no need for that. I��ve only had some free time these past few days and don��t n on always being idle. The family still needs someone to help look after the children."


    "If that''s the case, I''ll stay," said Sister Zhang. "In any case, working for you puts my mind at ease. As long as I don''t cause you trouble, that��s fine." She was still hesitant about running a small business.


    When she had first made this decision, her husband had scolded her for being too soft-hearted and unable to even take care of herself, yet still concerning herself with other people��s affairs.


    But Sister Zhang still remembered how desperate she had felt when falsely used in the past. Neither her husband nor her children had been able to understand her. It was Zhi Xia who had given her a hand. The trust of the old master of the house had also given her confidence in front of her neighbors.


    Zhi Xia knew the tide of history. The real decisions on reform and opening up would be made by the end of this year. For now, no one interfered with the selling of vegetables and the like. But it was still not easy to do big business openly.


    Over these years, the savings in her hands and the allowances from her elders meant a sizable amount of deposits at home. But after the true reform and opening up, if she really wanted to do something, it would still be far from enough.


    She had to start thinking about how to umte capital.


    Zhi Xia had been wandering around leisurely these past few days. She had too many goods in her space that weren��t easy to take out.


    On her way back one day, she suddenly discovered a car parked at the front door.


    She quickly quickened her pace, and sure enough, saw Pei Jing ying with the children in the yard.


    ��Why did youe back suddenly without any notice?�� Although Zhi Xiained verbally, she was quite happy inside.


    Pei Jing turned his head in surprise. ��Grandpa called me back. You didn��t know? He specifically asked me to call Fourth Brother back too.��


    What��s more, Eldest Brother hade back too, suddenly receiving Old Master Pei''s call. An Zhiqing was worried, so he went to ask Pei Jing if something had happened at home. Only then did he know that Old Master Pei had called back everyone who was outside.


    Zhi Xia suddenly recalled the conversation at the dinner table a few days ago, but didn��t feel that it had anything to do with her. Why was even Pei Jing called back?


    Since An Zhiqing was far away, Pei Jing and An Zhiang had returned two days ago, and he came leisurelyte.


    That night, they went to eat at the An family��s, and this time, all members of the family were present without a single person missing.


    At the dinner table, Old Master and Old Madam appeared very happy, but didn��t say any extra words.


    After the meal, Pei Jing brought them back. There were too many children that they could only sit on the adults''ps.


    Zhi Xia couldn��t help thinking that in another few years, when the children grew up, even one car wouldn��t be enough to seat their whole family if they went out.


    It was only on the second day when she heard it from An Zhiang that Zhi Xia knew Old Master had split the property between them.


    The returned property included some run-down shops on the street that still held some value despite the passing years. When the assets were being registered, the names of the four brothers had already been written down respectively.


    There were also the family valuables that Old Master had hidden away, and these had all been split between them. An ZhiXian and An Zhiqing were still unmarried and living at home, so those items were temporarily kept at Old Master��s ce.


    In any case, they now knew where the hidden goods were kept. For things that had already been split, no one would go take them.


    Up to now, Zhi Xia still didn��t understand the purpose of calling Pei Jing back.


    Late at night, almost time for bed, Zhou Nan called them from outside. ��Little Jing, Zhi Xia,e over to Grandpa and Grandma��s ce.��


    When they went out, they realized An JingZhi was also there.


    In the living room, as soon as Zhi Xia entered, she noticed severalrge boxes.


    Old Madam touched these boxes reminiscently and said, ��The An family��s things have all been given to you brothers. These were the dowries your grandma brought when she married, and Grandma said she would keep them for you. Now the two of us are already old, and we don��t know how many more days we have left to live. While we��re still alive, we wanted to arrange everything properly for you so we can rest easy even when we close our eyes."


    "Grandma, you and Grandpa will definitely live past a hundred.�� Zhi Xia suddenly felt a trace of sadness.


    Old Madam waved her hand. ��We��re old now, no need to say such things.��


    To preserve them well in the past, some of Old Madam''s dowry had been exchanged for gold bars, but most of the gold, silver, jade and jewelry were still kept. She took out a few pieces suitable for her own use. These would be buried with her when she died. The rest were all given to Zhi Xia.


    Neither Old Master nor Old Madam opened the boxes to let them take a look. Of course, Zhi Xia did not dare help herself either.


    After arranging Zhi Xia��s belongings, Old Madam called Zhou Nan over and pointed at the boxes on the table, ��It��s been hard on you these years too. These are left for you.��


    This came as an especially huge surprise to Zhou Nan, who was instantly delighted and unable to close her mouth. ��There are things for me too?��


    Zhou Nan had some of her own stuff too. Her wedding gifts from that year and someter additions. Having lived in hardship for so long, she was reluctant to throw away anything, good or bad. Later they had all been packed into boxes and buried in the backyard.


    When Old Madam''s parents had gone abroad back then, she had abandoned more things than Zhou Nan treasured, and was thus ridiculed for being petty.


    Zhou Nan didn��t have much, and with no such worries, she opened up a box right there and then, revealing the box full of jewelry inside.


    ��These are all good stuff. Keep them well; they wille in handy one day.�� Old Madam had considered this carefully. As soon as things opened up, those who had left back then would sooner orter return. Even if the An family couldn��t regain its former glory, with promising grandsons below, there would inevitably be social situations to attend.


    These things were worthless in troubled times but represented face value during prosperous eras.


    Old Madam, who was usually simple and unadorned, wore a jade bangle today. This also signified that these collections from over the years could finally see the light of day.


    Pei Jing went back and forth several times before moving all the items back. The two small boxes contained gold bars, plus two boxes of antiques and some jewellery.

 Chapter 303: Drunk Man鈥檚 Intention is not wine

    <h4>Chapter 303</h4>


    Zhou Nan was not so happy because of her greed for money. After all, she had spent so many years with An JingZhi and their sons had grown up, so her status was unshakable.


    Although most of the assets had been distributed to their sons, there was still some part that remained in the hands of the couple. The fact that the olddy was willing to leave something for her meant that she approved of Zhou Nan from the bottom of her heart, which made Zhou Nan feel that all these years were worth it.


    She still remembered the long face the olddy made when she first married into the family, clearly showing that Zhou Nan was not good enough for An JingZhi. Of course, that was indeed the case back then.


    Zhou Nan hugged her belongings and returned home where three of her four sons were present, except for the second son and his wife who were not at home.


    An ZhiAng took one look at the abnormally delighted Zhou Nan and wondered, "Mom, what are you holding? Did you pick up money?"


    "You''re a grown up but still speak without thinking. Do I look that lucky to pick up money?" Zhou Nan red at her and went back to her room with her stuff.


    She had to think carefully about where to hide these things properly.


    Although Zhou Nan did not know good merchandise, she was not stupid either. The things that her mother-inw had kept for so many years and specifically told her to keep properly must not be ordinary goods.


    She had witnessed back then how her young sister-inw would go out shopping for jewelry, with every single piece worth several years of ordinary people''s spending, which made her extremely envious at that time.


    After locking the box in the wardrobe, Zhou Nan still felt uneasy.


    She would ask the man of the houseter if there was a good ce to hide stuff. He must have a lot of good stuff hidden somewhere that she didn''t know about, definitely not at home, because she hadn''t found anything over the years.


    Outside, An JingZhi exined on Zhou Nan''s behalf, "It''s something my mother gave her. She''s been delighted all the way back."


    Only then did An ZhiAng keep quiet.


    When they distributed the assets, only the four brothers were present. There were too many things that it would definitely be unrealistic to distribute thempletely fairly. Except for several shops, the rest were divided by grandparents into four parts for them to draw lots and select. Both good and bad depended solely on their own luck, so no one could me others.


    An ZhiAng was in the army and also single, so he had no use for these things for now.


    Liu Ling went back to the room and sent the two children out before asking An Zhiqing, "When grandpa and grandma called you and uncle and aunt over yesterday, was it just about the shops?"


    "And some other stuff that can''t be made public for now. If you want any, I''ll take time another day to pick out some jewelry for you to wear. Just don''t be too conspicuous, that shouldn''t be a problem."


    From An Zhiqing''s words, Liu Ling felt that he was indirectly inquiring about something, but he did not intend to say.


    No matter how much stuff the family had, it was the older generation''s umtion.


    Even his mother did not have much say in dividing up the family property, let alone them of the younger generation. They could only take however much the grandparents gave them, and should not covet more.


    When the opportunity was right, he would not continue to hide things from her forever either.


    There were too many people in the family. That was also why the olddy and the old master were not nning to openly divide up the family property. Everything was obtained by their own draw, so no one knew what the others got.


    The olddy explicitly said that her dowry would go to ZhiXia, but what exactly it contained was also unknown to the several brothers.


    Liu Ling still had many more questions, but was afraid of asking too much in case he came across as power grasping.


    At the same time, she also felt the difference in status in the family. They always imed to be one family, yet such a big matter of dividing up the family property was done hiding it from her, the daughter-inw of the eldest grandson.


    The same went for Zheng Suchun as well.


    In contrast, An Zhiren''s side was much more harmonious.


    In essence, Zheng Suchun and Zhou Nan were quite simr, both virtuous wife and wise mother figures who understood their position in the family from the beginning of their engagement and marriage, unlike Liu Ling who had career ambitions.


    Being able to receive part of the family assets was an unexpected joy to Zheng Suchun.


    She had also secretly probed how much her family got, but only received one line from An Zhiren - "Enough for our generation and the next generation to live in ease andfort without working."


    Zheng Suchun did not know the exact amount, she only knew that her luck had turned and she had stepped from a peasant girl into the ranks of the rich.


    Instead of urging An Zhiren to take out the stuff, she urged him to hide them properly. Having personally witnessed the chaos of recent years, one could never be too careful. unting wealth for a moment meant nothing, being able to unt for a lifetime meant victory.


    What ZhiXia got was moved back home, its final destination being her space.


    But she still had some questions in mind, "Don''t you feel like grandparents were a bit too rushed in dividing up the family this time? Things have just started going well, there hasn''t beenplete liberalization, yet they divided everything."


    Pei Jing was drenched in sweat after moving stuff in the sweltering weather. He emptied the ss of water ZhiXia poured for him in big gulps.


    "It did seem a bit rushed, but they must have had their own ns," Pei Jing slowly said, "It could also be because third uncle is going abroad. They wanted to settle things clearly before he leaves."


    The talk was that third uncle would be away for a year''s further studies, but there was no guarantee that things would stay the same. Grandpa and grandma were both in their 80s. It made sense that they wanted to make arrangements early.


    ZhiXia thought that was reasonable too. There was no harm in dividing things earlier. She then urged Pei Jing to quickly go take a shower.


    It was noon time. Liu Ling brought Wen Qing over carrying a watermelon.


    ZhiXia quickly weed them, "It''s scorching out there. Why did youe over? Hurry in and cool down."


    "We came to see grandpa and grandma and happened to see someone selling watermelons on the way. We thought we''d get one for you guys too," Liu Ling said with a smile, "Your big brother is talking to grandpa next door. Wen Qing wanted toe find ChenYe and the others. I thought I''d drop by too."


    Upon hearing that An Zhiqing was next door, Pei Jing also went over after informing them.


    The children were all ying under the trees in the yard with asional cool breezes blowing through.


    "I happened to buy a lot of peaches yesterday when I went out. I''ll pack some for you guys to take back and tryter."


    Liu Ling smiled and agreed. ZhiXia was always very generous in this aspect and the things she got were always of exceptional quality and vor. Liu Ling wondered how she always had such good luck.


    The electric fan in the living room whirred noisily as the two chatted away.


    Liu Ling suddenly spoke up, "ZhiXia, our confiscated shops were returned and grandparents distributed the assets. Did you know about this?"


    "Yes, I heard it from fourth brother yesterday." ZhiXia secretly raised her brows. She suddenly felt that Liu Ling did not simplye to deliver a watermelon.


    Seeing that ZhiXia did not continue, Liu Ling smilingly asked again, "Your big brother said he would pick out some jewelry for me to wear. Did you get any jewelry from your share? You have to speak up if there''s anything unsuitable for you, we can swap around."


    "Sister-inw jests. There was no share for me in dividing up the assets, but the dowry from grandparents did contain jewelry. No matter if they suit me or not, they are tokens of grandparents'' affection that I wish to cherish well."


    "You''re right about that. I dare not swap with you then. I should cherish mine as well."


    Liu Ling also realized that she had asked about the asset division while ZhiXia spoke of the dowry. They simply did not continue the thread of her words.


    It looked like nobody here was silly.


    She was not coveting anything either, just curious about how much exactly everyone got.


    Asking further would seem annoying, and Liu Ling did not wish for strained rtions. So she took the initiative to change the topic.


    ZhiXia did not mind either. Fortunately Liu Ling knew when to advance and retreat, unlike Wang Yue who was shameless. Otherwise the An family would likely be unsettled.

 Chapter 304: The Tailor鈥檚 Shop

    <h4>Chapter 304</h4>


    The other party had another purpose, and this day''s chat was not so enjoyable.


    Zhi Xia went to get her some peaches and suggested going next door to sit for a while.


    Liu Ling seemed to realize that her purpose was too obvious, smiled awkwardly, got up and went with her.


    It was rare for Pei Jing toe back. At noon, he took Chenye and Little Sixth to drink with friends and left. Zhi Xia took the children next door and asked Sister Zhang toe and help so that everyone could have lunch together.


    As soon as An Zhiqing took Liu Ling away, the old madam''s face copsed.


    The old master secretly signaled to her, "The children all have their own lives and families. Why do you still manage so much? Isn''t it just to make yourselffortable in vain?"


    The old madam moved her mouth, but didn''t say anything more. Instead, she stood up, "Zhi Xia, take Wanqing with you. Grandma will take you two to a ce. Leave the little ones at home for your grandfather and Sister Zhang to take care of."


    Ever since Old Pei passed away, the old master''s life had be increasingly dull, and he was no longer as happy in spirit as before.


    Apart from asionally going out to y chess with a group of old men, he would spend most of his time staring nkly in the recliner in the yard.


    Lately, the old madam had also be thinner. Even though Zhi Xia had been trying her best to nourish their health.


    The ce the old madam took Zhi Xia to was a small alley. From the outside, there was nothing suspicious about it, but when the door of a household was knocked open and they went inside, it was a different world.


    She had not expected that this turned out to be a hidden tailor shop.


    "Mrs. An, you are here..." A girl came out and intimately held the old madam''s arm.


    "I heard that you have picked up your grandfather''s skills. So I brought my granddaughter to take a look." The old madam was obviously very intimate with the other party too.


    "I just got back and didn''t have a livelihood. I still have to eat." The girl''s smile was slightly bitter. It was evident that life was not so good either.


    The old madamfortingly patted the back of her hand and introduced, "Zhi Xia, this is Su Ying. Her grandfather used to be the famous old tailor in our Jin City. At that time, the clothes in our family were custom-made at their fabric store."


    Of course, they also had some business dealings. But it��s better not to mention those old affairs.


    Su Ying greeted Zhi Xia affectionately. Zhi Xia also responded hastily.


    The old madam asked Su Ying about things like whether she had a partner. It suddenly reminded Zhi Xia of her two unmarried older brothers at home, and she couldn''t help but look at her more carefully.


    Su Ying didn''t mind either, answering them one by one and leading them into the room.


    While talking with the old madam, she didn''t forget to greet Zhi Xia from time to time, praising Wanqing a few words asionally. She was able to handle the two of them without making people feel neglected.


    "Mrs. An, you came today to help with my business, right? I just happen to have a few pieces of good fabric suitable for making cheongsams here. Do you want to take a look?" Su Ying smilingly asked the old madam, "There are also a few pieces of bright colored fabric suitable for Zhi Xia. Why don''t you take a look together?"


    "It''s a bit inappropriate to wear cheongsams now. You might as well look to make me an everyday dress." The old madam pulled Wanqing and didn''t forget to exhort her, "Also make a few stylish ones for Zhi Xia and this little girl."


    The old madam chose the fabric and subscribed to the style with a catalogue.


    Zhi Xia looked at the catalogue. The clothes in it looked as if she had drawn them herself, they were indeed quite nice.


    Seeing Zhi Xia stare at it several times, Su Ying said, "The styles in this booklet were drawn by me, and only one piece of clothing is made for each style. The ones you choose will be taken out."


    The tailor shop had just opened, and it was still operating ording to the traditional model from years ago, only serving long-time old customers. So business was not very good.


    Of course, the prices were not affordable for the average working-ss people either.


    Zhi Xia understood that this was equivalent to private customization where only one piece of clothing was made for each style, which couldpletely avoid the embarrassment of wearing the same style as someone else.


    The old madam got a set for herself, two sets for Zhi Xia, two sets for Wanqing, the summer clothes were very thin, yet they paid more than three hundred dors, and that was the price after paying in cloth bills.


    Even Zhi Xia couldn''t help gasping heavily.


    When they left, the old madam reluctantly held Su Ying''s hand, "Little Ying, call your grandfather toe to my house for a casual dinner tonight, okay? I originally wanted to invite him personally, but unfortunately he went out. Just in time my little grandson wille over tonight too. Remember that you two used to be childhood sweethearts."


    The Su family was sent away two years before Zhi Xia returned. Now they had only been back for a few months. There were only this grandfather and granddaughter left in the family. The Elder Su was already in his sunset years. So she was anxious to find someone for Su Ying to rely on.


    The obvious matchmaking tone, yet Su Ying didn''t show any objection at all, "Then grandpa and I will go bother Mrs. An tonight."


    After leaving, Zhi Xia asked, "Grandma, are you arranging a blind date for my fourth brother?"


    The old madam didn''t deny it either, "You siblings were born together. Look at you, your kids are already going to elementary school, and your fourth brother still hangs out with other guys all day. Isn''t it time to hurry up with the marriage?" As for your third brother, it can''t be helped. He has to go abroad. I can��t let him find a partner and let her wait for him toe back."


    Moreover, the old madam had her own selfish reasons. No matter Zhou Nan or the two daughters-inw above, none of them were to her liking. Coming from a prestigious family herself, she knew well the importance of inheritance.


    Among these grandchildren, the one she worried about the most in terms of temperament was the fourth one.


    Su Ying had inherited the Su family''s skills and was also the Su family''s only sessor. She had watched Su Ying grow up since she was a child. If Su Ying married into the family, it would be a good match between her and the fourth brother, and their personalities couldplement each other.


    In a rtionship, especially when one was prone to impulsiveness, it was necessary to have someone more steady to look out for him more.


    From Su Ying��s side, there didn��t seem to be any problem, she just didn��t know what the fourth brother thought.


    The things the An family got back this time were not even one tenth of what they originally had. Most of the ces and items were severely damaged, not to mention those that had been donated.


    Of course, they were rtively lucky that at least the family members were intact.


    Other families were not so fortunate, like the Su family, there were only Elder Su and Su Ying left, and Elder Su was already in his sunset years. So she was anxious to find someone for Su Ying to rely on.


    The blind date was also something they had previously agreed on, it just happened that the fourth brother had note back until now.


    When she returned home, An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan were already there, and An Zhiang was sitting on the side with an obvious dissatisfied look on his face.


    As soon as he saw Zhi Xiae back, he immediately stood up and pulled Zhi Xia aside, saying that he wanted to hide away in peace next door.


    Zhou Nan impatiently urged Zhi Xia, "Keep an eye on your fourth brother and don''t let him get away."


    After they went out, she asked, "Fourth brother doesn''t want to go on a blind date?"


    An Zhiang��s answer was straightforward, "What��s the point of a blind date? Like my big brother, marry a wife, give birth to a kid, then don��t see each other once in six months or a year? Howfortable it is to be alone. I also don''t have to deal with all those messy things."


    Zhi Xia patted his arm unhappily, "Don''t talk nonsense like that. Your big brother lives far away, but isn''t it very easy for you toe back now?"


    An Zhiang looked at her aggrievedly, "You don''t understand."


    Once he married, things wouldn��t be so harmonious anymore. How could he do whatever he wanted like when he was alone.

 Chapter 305: Like the Flesh of a Tang Monk

    <h4>Chapter 305</h4>


    But no matter how he thought about it, things that were already decided would still happen.


    In the evening, Elder Su came over to the Su house with Su Ying.


    As soon as they entered, Elder Su chatted with the old master of the house, while Su Ying handed over the gifts she had brought to Mrs. Zhou beside her, speaking politely.


    Zhi Xia suddenly understood the difference between Su Ying and them.


    After a few words, Old Madam An pointed at An ZhiAng, "Number four, you and little Ying are considered old acquaintances. She had just returned with Elder Su not long ago. It just so happens that you are at home too. You young people should keep in touch more and not be estranged."


    "I know." An ZhiAng knew Su Ying. When he was little, he would often follow her around calling her older sister. At that time, she was much better behaved than Gao MeiYun,pletely matching all his fantasies about having a little sister.


    He remembered that she was only twelve years old when Elder Su left with her that year. The Su house was smashed and she was also injured. That incident left a deep impression on An ZhiAng. Slowly, he retreated from the gang.


    However, although he had run with them for a while at that time, he didn''t do anything to the Su family. It was done by another group, whom heter went to teach a lesson.


    He was originally very against the idea of an arranged marriage meeting, but seeing Su Ying suddenly, scenes from their childhood seemed to rey before his eyes, and he became a little ufortable.


    "Then why don''t you two go out and chat?" Old Madam An tentatively suggested.


    An ZhiAng got up and walked outside. Zhou Nan felt embarrassed and apologized to Su Ying, "This kid has had a bad temper since he was little. Little Ying, don''t take offense."


    "It''s alright, Auntie An," Su Ying smiled and followed him out.


    There were children ying in the yard. An ZhiAng went to the backyard.


    Su Ying knew that her grandfather had contacted the An family before, so she wasn''t going to beat around the bush. She cheekily said directly, "It looks like I failed to catch Fourth Brother''s eyes. But we did grow up together after all. We can''t possibly be that estranged from each other, right?"


    "Su Ying, given our rtionship, I''ll be straightforward. Marriage is a big deal for life. You''re a girl, so you should be more careful," An ZhiAng turned around, looking straight at her. "You know what kind of frivolous person I am. I''m not a good match."


    With such a straightforward rejection, Su Ying was not angry. Instead, she asked him, "Does Fourth Brother have someone he likes?"


    "No, not really. I''ve been in the army these past few years." He barely even saw mosquitoes there, let alone people.


    "If there''s no one, then why are you unwilling to give me a try?" Su Ying said with a smile.


    "I don''t want to be constrained by marriage, so I''ve never had any ns to get married," said An ZhiAng.


    Su Ying was not surprised. Even in childhood, he did not like ying with girls very much because he found it troublesome.


    "Actually, I don''t have to get married either. It''s just grandfather is nearing the end of his life and he worries about leaving me alone. That''s why he was determined to find me a guardian. He went to Elder An first. As you know, it''s too hard for a girl to survive in this world," said Su Ying without any intention to hide anything. "But since you don''t agree, then just forget it."


    Su Ying''s situation was indeed not very good. She was the Su family''s only descendant. Therge amount of returned property made her like Tang Seng''s meat��inevitably coveted.


    But a marriage cannot be forced.


    When the two returned to the living room again, it was obvious that An ZhiAng was less averse to Su Ying than before.


    After dinner, An JingZhi and Zhou Nan sent Elder Su and Su Ying to the door.


    Old Master An asked An ZhiAng, "I think Su Ying is a good girl, knowledgeable and gentle. If she''s not too inferior for you, what do you think?"


    "My opinion!" An ZhiAng spoke again but with less confidence this time, "I''ve told you my opinion already. I still don''t want to get married yet."


    He didn''t dare to say that he had no ns of ever getting married, afraid they would beat his head to mush.


    Old Master and Old Madam An looked at each other, not hiding their disappointment at all on their faces. "A marriage is not forming an enmity. If you don''t like her then just forget it. We''ll just take better care of Little Ying in the future."


    Zhou Nan came back from outside, happily saying, "I think Su Ying likes our Number Four. What does Number Four think?"


    No wonder Zhou Nan was so superficial. Anyone could guess that Su Ying had inherited the Su family property. Such a daughter-inw brought home would definitely not be a loss. And the daughter of the Su family was personally taught by Elder Su, so her vision and experience were not something ordinary people could have.


    "I didn''t like her. Don''t bring this up again in the future," said Old Madam.


    Zhou Nan''s smile instantly disappeared. She promptly grabbed An ZhiAng''s ear and scolded, "Didn''t like her? How could you not like such a beautiful and gentle daughter-inw? What other kind of woman are you still looking for?"


    An ZhiAng dodged up and down as Zhou Nan berated him. He wasn''t like Big Brother and Second Brother who obediently stood still when being beaten.


    Su Ying''s sewing shop also gave Zhi Xia an idea. The political situation had indeed improved a lot. Earning money could no longer be done openly and upright, but no one would be able to notice if done sneakily.


    No sooner said than done, on the second day after Pei Jing and An ZhiAng left, she went to An ZhiAng''s shop.


    It was on a side street with few people. She heard that it used to be quite lively years ago when it was still a bustling marketce. Later the ce was smashed up so business declined.


    Anyway, Fourth Brother didn''t have any use for this shop for now, so she simply borrowed it.


    Upon opening the door, to her surprise, there was even a yard behind connecting two warehouses. This was really an unexpected joy.


    Zhi Xia didn''t have any specific ns on what to do, but wanted to go into supplies procurement to quickly realizemodities and umte wealth.


    Unexpectedly, just as she was checking out the ce and about to leave, she saw a woman holding a basket rush into the yard with shouting soundsing from outside.


    Hu Zhou looked back and was so frightened by Zhi Xia that he was just about to call out before hearing the other party pleading, "Sis An, don''t shout. It''s me, Little Hu. We''ve met before at An MeiYun''s wedding. I went with Liu Jun and his brothers to patrol..."


    As he spoke, he lifted his kerchief and wiped off the makeup on his face, only then could she see that it was actually a man.


    Zhi Xia looked closely but still couldn''t remember who he was, though she definitely recognized Liu Jun''s name.


    Knowing that Zhi Xia seemed to recall him, Hu Zhou heaved a sigh of relief. He turned back to peek out the door crack and, seeing that the outsiders had left, finally felt at ease.


    "What a coincidence. I almost got caught by those damn brats!" Hu Zhou said to Zhi Xia in relief, "Sis An, what are you doing here?"


    He knew well about the An and Pei families from his time hanging out with Fourth Brother An in the past.


    "This used to be our shop that was just returned to us. I came to take a look. By the way, why were you being chased? And..." dressed like a woman.

 Chapter 306: The Deal

    <h4>Chapter 306</h4>


    "Ah, it''s a long story," Hu Zhou said breathlessly to Zhi Xia. "Sister An, let''s sit down to talk, I''m about to be exhausted to death."


    Zhi Xia hurriedly found a stool that looked decent enough and brought out a watermelon from the backyard, "No one lives here, and there''s no water either. When I came, I bought a watermelon. Let''s quench our thirst with this first."


    Hu Zhou was still hesitant, but after a brief pause, he relented. "Then I won''t stand on ceremony with you. I still have some melon seeds left in this basket. Anyway, I can''t do business today, Sister An, just take them back to eat."


    Hu Zhou took the watermelon, pped it with his palm, and the watermelon split into two halves. He broke off another piece and handed it to Zhi Xia before eating his own.


    In recent years, he had been working in the warehouse of a factory, just a temporary worker with a monthly sry of 18.8 yuan. This was also thanks to An Zhi Ang''s help finding the job.


    He had no family, was an orphan alone, and had nned to just muddle through life this way. But after helping An Zhi Ren embezzle money a few years ago, An Zhi Ren gave him a lot. With that money, he got married and had something of a family.


    But the more miserable your fate, the more Heaven scowls at you.


    Because they were poor, when his wife gave birth, they didn''t go to the hospital. She passed away directly after giving birth, leaving behind a newborn girl.


    As a single father, Hu Zhou still had to support and raise his daughter while going to work, relying on that sry of 18.8 yuan. His child couldn''t have a good life. So he turned to other means, selling melon seeds at the entrance of the movie theater.


    It was pretty lucrative work, earning far more in a few days than his monthly sry. Unfortunately, he offended another group also selling melon seeds.


    They had some connections and brought people with red armbands after him. It was really f#@%ed.


    Realizing he had identally sworn, Hu Zhou quickly looked up at Zhi Xia. Seeing that she didn''t show any sign of disgust, he breathed a sigh of relief.


    When An Zhi Ang used to hang out, it was like he was experiencing life as a young master. But Hu Zhou was truly just a punk looked down upon since childhood.


    Still, Zhi Xia was the only sister the old boss told them to look after more. Hu Zhou still wanted to leave her with a good impression.


    As for Zhi Xia, this was really just what she needed - a pillow delivered just as she started feeling drowsy.


    What shecked most right now was reliable manpower.


    "Hu Zhou, you and my fourth brother go way back. Let me ask you something, don''t take offense okay?"


    "Sister An, just call me Little Hu. That''s what everyone calls me. Please just order me to do anything. Although I haven''t had much contact with Brother An these past few years, he helped me in the past. So he''ll always be my elder brother. And his sister is my elder sister."


    Gangsters mightck other virtues, but they do value loyalty.


    Zhi Xia couldn''t help butugh. "We''re familiar with each other, so I won''t hide it from you. I have connections to obtain some goods, butck manpower."


    Hu Zhou''s eyes instantly lit up. He hurried to reveal his own cards, "Sister An, I, Hu Zhou, may not have other skills, but I''ve made some friends recently. If you really can get good merchandise, I can help contact people to sell it."


    Zhi Xia casually said, "That was my intention too. It''s mutually beneficial for everyone to make money together."


    Hu Zhou was already impatient, "So what kind of goods can Sister An get?"


    "That''s exactly what I wanted to ask you. What sells best right now?"


    "Nothing surpasses food and clothing. But most people are short on ration tickets." That was the hardest part of doing business. They needed tickets to take goods, so the buyers would also need tickets. But regr people had very limited tickets and couldn''t afford the goods without them.


    After discussing it, Zhi Xia and Hu Zhou decided to start their first business transaction with cloth.


    ording to Jin City''s current policy, registered residents were allotted 6 feet of cloth tickets and 1 jin of cotton tickets per person annually. That wasn''t even enough for taller or fatter builds to make a set of clothes, let alone outfits for all four seasons.


    Many families shared clothes. So when supply and marketing cooperatives asionally had defective cloth without needing tickets, regr people still couldn''t grab them. As long as they could get cloth that didn''t require tickets, even if it cost a bit more, it would definitely sell better than food.


    Zhi Xia didn''t take Hu Zhou''s melon seeds. After learning he had a 2-year-old daughter at home, she even let him take back half the watermelon to feed his child and made arrangements to meet with him again tomorrow afternoon.


    After Hu Zhou left, Zhi Xia didn''t rush to leave either. Instead, she locked the front gate then turned to enter her space.


    She remembered that when she wasn''t a zombie, she had scavenged a lot of supplies. Other than edibles she gave to An Zhi Xian, including clothing and manufacturing machines and various factory inventory.


    Among them were no small amount of fabrics for clothing, stored for years in storage spaces. She should take out and handle the suitable ones first.


    Although storage spaces could stack endlessly, having too much stuff would still make it hard for her to keep track. Leaving things in a pile wasn''t a solution either.


    Fortunately she had categorized everything back then. Zhi Xia first took out the items to tidy up, making sure there were no special markings, before sorting the fabrics into grades of good and bad. She then put the boxes back into her space.


    Half a warehouse full of fabrics were divided by thickness and quality into six pricing tiers. The cheapest was 2 yuan per foot. A bolt of cloth was counted as 40 feet, so even that would be 80 yuan.


    And the more expensive options ranged from 4.5 yuan, 6 yuan, cheap woolen fabrics were 9 yuan, expensive ones were 12 yuan. She priced them ording to supply and marketing cooperatives'' cloth, choosing fabrics that fit the characteristics of this era. Those that didn''t match were still piled up in her space for now.


    Zhi Xia separated all these fabrics andbeled the prices clearly on paper. She also calcted that all of these materials totaled around 10,000 yuan in value. After all, this was their first endeavor. She didn''t dare overextend her steps either. If sales went well, she could gradually increase volumeter.


    After finishing up, she finally went back home.


    Time slipped by stealthily. The skies gradually darkened from afternoon to evening.


    Having been busy for half the day, her entire body was drenched in sweat, with damp bangs stered to her forehead.


    An Zhi Xian came out from next door and happened to see her disheveled state. "Where have you been all day? Didn''t even see you at all. How did you get yourself in this state?"

 Chapter 307: Sending Him Money.

    <h4>Chapter 307</h4>


    "Let''s go out for a walk, it''s too hot here," Zhi Xia said. "How long has third brother been here?"


    "He came at noon. He was just about to leave if you didn''te back," An ZhiXian said grumpily.


    Zhi Xia raised her eyebrows. "Did third brothere specifically to see me?"


    "I guess you could say that," An ZhiXian replied. "Come inside to talk. You look hot. Go wash your face first. I''ll wait for you in the living room."


    Zhi Xia nodded and went to freshen up first before heading to the living room.


    "I heard from fourth brother that you borrowed his shop. What are you nning to do with it?" An ZhiXian asked straight away.


    Zhi Xia was not surprised that he knew about this. Second brother probably knew about it too. He was just the first one toe probe for more information.


    "I didn''t have any big ns for it. Fourth brother doesn''t need it in the army anyway. I just wanted to borrow it for now and think about what I could do with it," Zhi Xia answered evasively. "Haven''t you heard that the political climate is opening up soon? Many vegetable sellers are already operating without issue these days. Things should get even better going forward, no?"


    She was not afraid of opposition from anyone. Su Ying was also doing business. Grandma even wanted to matchmake her with fourth brother. This showed that she was quite open-minded.


    Perhaps sensing that Zhi Xia did not wish to borate further, An ZhiXian did not ask anymore. Instead, he took out the property ownership certificate he brought with him and handed it to Zhi Xia. "Whatever you n to do, third brother just wants to tell you to be careful and stay safe. I''ll be going overseas soon. This house will just be left empty so you might as well use it if you have a need."


    From some behaviors, it was easy to see that Zhi Xia''s rtionship with fourth brother was much closer than with the rest of them. Even though fourth brother had been in the army for so many years, that had not changed.


    An ZhiXian was notining. If he wanted to me anyone, he could only me himself. When Zhi Xia first returned, they did not have much affection for this unfamiliar younger sister. If not for fourth brother''s mediation, their disregard for her would have been even more thorough.


    Although things gradually changed as they interacted more over time, they had missed the best opportunity to foster closer ties.


    Zhi Xia also did not expect that he would let her hold on to the property ownership certificate.


    Sheughed and joked, "Isn''t third brother afraid that I would upy his house?"


    In this day and age, with the property ownership certificate in hand, she could really do just that if she wanted to, with some effort.


    "If you really want it, I''ll just give it to you," An ZhiXian said nonchntly.


    To him, the medical books Zhi Xia gave him were worth more than a few shops put together.


    "I''m just kidding. I wouldn''t dare," Zhi Xia quickly declined, frightened by his serious response.


    An ZhiXian felt very helpless. He really wanted to give it to her but understood that she would not take it.


    Since he had no use for it anyway, he would just let her do whatever she wanted with it.


    After An ZhiXian left, Zhi Xia looked at the property ownership certificate in her hand and smiled silently.


    Since he had lent it to her, she would hold on to it first. Who knew if it mighte in useful.


    Third brother would be overseas for about a year. No one knew what the situation would be like when he returned. For now, he definitely had no use for it.


    When the appointed time came, Hu Zhou was already waiting at the door when Zhi Xia arrived.


    Seeing the sweat on his forehead and the little girl he carried on his back, yet the bright smile blooming on his face like a flower, Zhi Xia walked over.


    "An Jie, this is my daughter Yue Ya. The poor child has no mother. I have to bring her along every day," he exined, somewhat afraid that Zhi Xia would mind him bringing his child. But there were no elders at home and no one to look after her. His neighbor auntie asionally helped out but he could not impose on others daily.


    Zhi Xia looked at the little girl on his back. The child''s skin was somewhat dark from too much sun exposure but she was well taken care of and looked spirited.


    Under Hu Zhou''s guidance, she called Zhi Xia "Auntie" in an indistinct voice.


    Zhi Xia patted her head amicably and said to Hu Zhou, "Let''s go in first before we talk."


    She unlocked the door and went in first. Hu Zhou closed the door behind them and followed her to the warehouse at the back.


    The moment the warehouse door opened, piles of neatly arranged fabrics appeared before them. Hu Zhou''s eyes instantly lit up red.


    "An Jie, did you get all these fabrics without ration coupons?" Thest bit was key. Hu Zhou walked over excitedly to inspect them. He realized these fabrics had a wide variety, both thin and thick, clearly indicative of An Jie''s powerful sources.


    As Zhi Xia nodded, Hu Zhou''s excited fingers trembled slightly.


    He could already envision how much money he would earn from selling all of these.


    After the initial excitement, his mind instantly cleared up. "An Jie, how are these fabrics priced? I think we could price them slightly higher than the state-run supply and marketing cooperatives and they would still sell well."


    Zhi Xia already had ns for this. "Hu Zhou, I provide the goods. You have the connections. We can cooperate in two ways. First, you can work for me. I will pay you a sry based on sales volume. The more you sell, the higher your pay. This would probably be safer for you.


    The second option is I sell you the fabrics at the sales price. After that, you handle everything. How much you earn depends on your capabilities."


    Zhi Xia preferred thetter. She would not need to worry too much and could just sit back collecting money while letting Hu Zhou handle things. She wanted to help Hu Zhou get on his feet. Only when he earned a lot could he expand in future.


    Hu Zhou also quickly discerned which option was more advantageous for him. But he still felt somewhat awkward. "An Jie, you think too highly of me. I don''t have the capability to move so many fabrics."


    Yet, Hu Zhou was reluctant to give up this opportunity to make money that hadnded on hisp. He gritted his teeth and swiftly came up with a feasible solution. "Could I ask how the pricing is first before deciding?"


    "I''ve written the prices on slips of paper. You can take a look," Zhi Xia pointed out to him.


    When Hu Zhou saw the prices, it was clearly marked to give him money!


    Then he heard Zhi Xia add, "These are wholesale prices, which also apply if you choose option two. Pricing will depend on sales volume for option one."


    "I understand An Jie is trying to give me a leg up. But could I shamelessly make one more request?" Hu Zhou figured since the hero was not destroyed by a penny, he might as well go all the way. "Can I choose option two, to pay An Jie only after I''ve sold the fabrics off?"


    If there was really no alternative, he would just have to choose option one.


    Zhi Xia already knew he could not fork out over 10,000 yuan upfront. That was why she made this arrangement in advance.


    After she told Hu Zhou the total price, he selected the fabrics, making sure not to take less.


    Zhi Xia passed him a copy of the key since the goods were still in the warehouse. Moving forward, it would be up to Hu Zhou. She did not have the time to oversee things here.


    After checking out the goods for a long time, picking and choosing again, categorizing them into several tiers, Hu Zhou finally left, the pricing tags Zhi Xia wrote tucked safely into his clothes.


    "Melon seeds...soft drinks..."


    Da Hu called out softly in front of the movie theater, slinging his shoulder pole while stealthily sizing up the surroundings.


    ncing back, he saw Hu Zhou walking over with a child on his back. Da Hu instantly straightened his back, baring his teeth. "Little Hu, you''ve got guts bringing a kid when I warned you not toe here."


    In Da Hu''s eyes, this was clearly provocation.


    He had cautioned Hu Zhou several times that the movie theater turf belonged to him.


    Instead of avoiding Da Hu this time, Hu Zhou walked right up to him. "Brother Tiger, we''re all just trying to make a living without any deep grudges between us, right?"


    Da Hu thought Hu Zhou was afraid and trying to make peace. But instead, Hu Zhou asked, "There''s not much money selling melon seeds and soft drinks. I''ve got a good business opportunity here. Does Brother Tiger want to earn big bucks?"


    Previously, Hu Zhou looked down on Da Hu. But now, Brother Tiger had the connections he needed. One should not let money get in the way.

 Chapter 308: Exhortation before Departure

    <h4>Chapter 308</h4>


    "What good ideas can you have?" Da Hu clearly didn''t believe it and warned, "You kid better not try to fool me. You should know that I have connections upstairs."


    Hu Zhou looked around. This was not the ce to talk. He politely said to Da Hu, "Brother Hu, this is not the ce to talk. Shall we step aside for a moment?"


    As he spoke, he deliberately fiddled with some fabric he had deliberately prepared, "This is the business I want to discuss with Brother Hu. I know Brother Hu has connections upstairs, but I have goods in my hands. If we can cooperate, wouldn''t we make more money than selling melon seeds?"


    Not surprisingly, Da Hu was tempted.


    But he still didn''tpletely trust Hu Zhou, with wariness in his eyes everywhere.


    However, thinking of what the other party said, if it was true, the profits involved, he still decided to take a risk.


    "Brother Hu, I still have my daughter on my back. Are you still afraid that I will hurt you?" Seeing that he was still hesitating, Hu Zhou said helplessly.


    That was also true. Da Hu finally dared to follow Hu Zhou with some caution to a secluded ce.


    Everyone knew that Hu Zhou''s wife had died in childbirth, and he guarded his only daughter like the root of his life. Even if he wanted to make trouble, he certainly wouldn''t dare to bring the child.


    ...


    Three dayster, Zhi Xia received the first payment, only four thousand yuan.


    This was because Hu Zhou was afraid that Zhi Xia would not be able to wait, so he sold the first batch of goods at the fastest speed without keeping a penny for himself.


    "Sister An, the rest of the money will have to wait a few more days before it can be collected. As soon as it arrives, I will give it to you first thing." Da Hu was slightly better off than him, but it was impossible for him toe up with too much money at once either.


    These days, truly wealthy people were still watching and didn''t dare show their faces. Zhi Xia naturally understood his difficulties and only said not to worry, to let him handle it slowly.


    Ten dayster, the first batch of goods was sold out, and Zhi Xia gave him the second batch.


    Hu Zhou had clearly made a lot of money and simply resigned from his temporary job.


    The neighbor aunt kindly advised him for fear that if he lost his job and the business could not go on, his life would be over too.


    But she didn''t know that what Hu Zhou had earned during this period was already more than what that job would earn him in ten years.


    The price Zhi Xia gave him was not high. Even if he wholesaled it to Da Hu, he could still make a profit of fifty percent after turning his hand once.


    Zhi Xia didn''t divide it carefully. Hu Zhou ssified it again and picked out many good ones from the low-end fabrics.


    As for Da Hu and the others, they ran retail, earning another sum through their hands. The purchase price of low-end fabrics should be around 4.5 to 5 yuan without invoices, slightly higher than the supply and marketing cooperatives.


    Among them, the best sellers were the cheap ones. Expensive ones could also sell, but there were really few people who were willing to buy them.


    Early in the morning, Zhi Xia hurried to the An''s house with several children.


    An ZhiXian was eating breakfast, and Zhou Nan was murmuring and urging something beside him, with a reluctant expression on her face.


    Seeing little sixth with his socks worn wrong, she knew how urgent they were when they came. An ZhiXian sighed helplessly, "I told you that you don''t need toe to see me off intentionally. With so many children, what''s the hurry? Look, little sixth got his socks wrong."


    Only then did Zhi Xia notice and pped her forehead, "It was a bit rushed. Third Elder Brother is going away for a year and can''te back. It''s right to bring the little ones to see you off."


    While speaking, second elder brother and sister-inw also arrived.


    After An ZhiXian finished eating and got up, Zhi Xia handed him the package she had prepared, "Third Elder Brother, I have prepared two suits for you. I heard that they all wear these abroad. Take them with you, they maye in handy."


    These were high-end goods she had selected from the space, with excellent quality and workmanship. Except for underwear, there were shirts, ties, and two matching sets.


    Only then did Zhou Nan remember, "Oh my, I really didn''t think of this. People abroad all wear suits. Fortunately, Zhi Xia thought of it. We haven''t been abroad and don''t know what it''s like out there. Don''t getughed at when you get there."


    The child going out, the most worried must be the old mother.


    An ZhiXian put away the things and said, "Mom, your son is almost 30 years old, not a teenager. He can deal with things, so just put your heart back in your stomach."


    In addition to preparing his own things these two days, he spent the rest of his time persuading Zhou Nan.


    Otherwise, with her attitude, she would probably overwhelm him without even going out, let alone going abroad.


    "I''m just thinking for you. It''s said that poor families have ambitious roads. Don''t save money when you get abroad, lest others look down on you. If you don''t have enough money to spend, just call..." Zhou Nan said with red eyes, almost crying.


    An ZhiXian walked over and hugged her, no longer impatient at all, "I know, Mom, don''t worry about me. I''m only going abroad for a year. At this time next year, I''ll be back. You and Dad should also take good care of yourselves and pay attention to your health."


    Zhou Nan hurriedly nodded, "Don''t worry about things at home. But there''s one thing I have to urge you that you must listen to."


    "What''s the matter?" An ZhiXian asked.


    Zhou Nan wiped the corners of her eyes and said, "You can go abroad for further studies, but you must not learn foreign ways. If you bring back a foreign daughter-inwter, I won''t recognize her. We still have to find a daughter-inw with ck hair and ck eyes, otherwise your mother won''t like it..."


    "Mom, what are you talking about? I''m going for further studies, not matchmaking. Look at what you said." An ZhiXian''s face turned red.


    An JingZhi said at the side, "It''s almost time, hurry up and go."


    After An ZhiXian left, Zhou Nan''s eyes reddened again.


    When she sent fourth brother to the army, she was not so sad. At least that was in the country, but going abroad this time, she always felt uneasy.


    After seeing An ZhiXian off, Zhi Xia didn''t stay long either.


    An Zhiren called her at the door and asked Zheng Suchun to take the children aside to wait for him. He jogged over to Zhi Xia and said, "The business in the fourth brother''s shop, did you do it?"


    He had also dealt with Hu Zhou before and was quite trustworthy.


    Zhi Xia didn''t deny it either, "Making some pocket money. Second elder brother cane to me if he needs it."


    "Okay, I''ll take your sister-inw to take a look another day." An Zhiren instructed her uneasily, "But you still have to be careful. No one cares now if you don''t report, but it would be very dangerous if someone made trouble."


    Zhi Xia nodded, "Thank you for your reminder, second elder brother. I know."


    After returning home, she carefully considered An Zhiren''s words and felt that safety was indeed a problem.


    With peopleing and going all day long over there, it was hard to avoid malicious people no matter how careful she was.


    Zhi Xia and Hu Zhou seriously discussed this issue and made contingency ns.


    In two months, the money in Zhi Xia''s hands had reached eighty thousand, and as for how much Hu Zhou had earned, she didn''t ask, but at least twenty to thirty thousand.


    Obviously,pared to before, their situation was no longer the same.

 Chapter 309: Suddenly Rich, a Bit of a Float

    <h4>Chapter 309</h4>


    On the first day of school, Zhi Xia and Guo Momo were walking together when they suddenly noticed the area in front of the school gate was more lively than usual, with several hand-decorated food carts.


    The smell of fried wontons drifted over, tickling PingAn''s nose.


    He reached out and pped Guo Momo''s shoulder, mouth open and making an "ah-ah" sound, though it was a little hoarse and grating.


    This had just started happening recently - originally he couldn''t make any sounds at all, but one day while ying, he had suddenly yelled out.


    But even just this much already made Guo Momo very happy.


    She handed PingAn to Zhi Xia, "Auntie, could you hold him for a bit? PingAn wants to eat wontons, I''ll go buy some for him."


    "I''ll go instead, you two wait here," Zhi Xia said. She went over and bought 5 fen worth of wontons, paying with two liang of ration tickets. The shopkeeper folded up some oiled paper into a paper cone and filled two cones for her.


    When she came back she gave one to Guo Momo, and popped one of the freshly fried wontons into her own mouth - they were crispy and delicious, perfectly tasty.


    After eating the wontons, PingAn also showed a happy smile.


    After registration was over, Guo Momo suddenly had to use the bathroom, so Zhi Xia sat with PingAn by a garden nter to wait for her.


    After the initial excitement of the wontons, PingAn was half full and started to slow down.


    When Guo Momo came back, Zhi Xia took out a medicine bottle from her bag, with a jade green colored bottle and high quality jade material.


    Zhi Xia had considered changing out the bottle before, but only this could better preserve the effectiveness of the medicine.


    "PingAn must have almost finished that medicine, this is a new batch," Zhi Xia handed it to her.


    Guo Momo didn''t stand on ceremony, epting it and saying "Thank you auntie, we''ve depended on your help these past few years, I don''t know what we would have done otherwise."


    "It''s only right, PingAn ought to call me third granny," Zhi Xia said. "Try thinking more positively - since taking this medicine, the little guy''s health has clearly improved greatly, and he can even make sounds now. Keep at it for a while longer and he may soon be like a normal child."


    This medicine was specially formted for premature babies by genius doctor elder sister. Ever since Zhi Xia had told her about PingAn''s condition, she had been researching it, and this currently showed the most obvious results.


    For this, she had even specially found another child in a simr situation to study, putting in great effort.


    Looking at her son able to stand by himself at the nter without support, Guo Momo said with red eyes and a smile: "I truly hope that dayes sooner - it''s because I''m an ipetent mother that my child has had to suffer this since birth."


    "No more thinking like that. I see the campus is lively, let''s go out and walk around before heading back," Zhi Xia suggested.


    As they started to leave, Guo Momo said "Alright, there''s two doses left in this medicine bottle, I''ll return it after he finishes."


    She may not understand these things, but she could still distinguish the quality of the jade bottle by feel.


    Zhi Xia nodded, and the two headed out together.


    Wang Li suddenly jumped out, "Zhi Xia, you''re really too inconsiderate, not even waiting for me when you knew I was looking for you!"


    Zhi Xia hurriedly exined with a smile. Their duo leaving became a trio, strengthened in numbers.


    She noticed many people on campus were also wearing new clothes, the fabric looked simr to that batch she had taken out of her space - including the one Wang Li had on.


    After asking around, it really was the same.


    After ap around campus they returned home, already mid afternoon.


    As soon as they entered the door Zhang Sister said "Zhi Xia, Little Hu is here again, helping pick jujubes in the backyard!"


    She had told him to wait in the living room, but he couldn''t sit still. Little Sixth and the others happened to be using poles to knock jujubes down in the backyard, so he had pulled his daughter along too.


    Over this time, Hu Zhou had often brought his daughter over, so Zhang Sister also got to know them.


    "Then I''ll go take a look in the backyard," Zhi Xia put down her schoolbag and headed to the backyard.


    Over the past two years, the jujube trees had grown very tall and lush. Hu Zhou was sitting in the branches of a tree, while Wanqing led the triplets below holding up bedsheets to catch the falling jujubes.


    Looking in the basket next to them, they had already harvested quite a few.


    Little Yue Ya was eating jujubes with Little Sixth - not sure if they were washed. Seeing Zhi Xiae over, she immediately called out excitedly to the tree "Dad, auntie is back!"


    Zhi Xia really liked this cute and well-behaved little girl. She stroked her cheek and praised "Yue Ya is so good? Do you like auntie''s jujubes?"


    "Yummy," she shyly hid behind Little Sixth, peeking at Zhi Xia - even cuter.


    Hu Zhou called from the tree to the kids below "Have we picked enough? The rest are still a bit unripe, better to let them ripen more on the tree."


    Without waiting for an answer he jumped down. Zhi Xia had the children tidy up while she brought Hu Zhou to the front yard.


    "Did youe to pick jujubes or find me?"


    "A bit of both - some business matters I wanted to discuss with you."


    With money padding his confidence, Hu Zhou had changed greatly.


    Back then he had called Da Hu "big tiger" or "tiger bro", but now Da Hu called him "Hu bro" - such was the difference.


    Once seated in the living room, Zhi Xia poured him a ss of water as they sat down.


    "The fabric market is bing saturated?" She knew roughly how much stock she had put out, and the sales speed clearly wasn''t as fast as before thest two times.


    "There is some of that situation - after all, many people took advantage of the low prices to prepare several years worth of fabric needed for their whole families. You wouldn''t know, with our sudden huge supply, the supply and marketing agency can barely sell any cloth." As Hu Zhou recalled, Zhi Xia had asked him before what was selling best currently - meaning she likely had more than just a fabric pipeline. That was also his purpose today ining over.


    "Sister An, autumn is here and once the temperature drops winter wille swiftly. So thicker fabrics will sell better recently, as well as if we could get cotton..." He tentatively began, observing Zhi Xia''s expression, but she remained calm.


    "I also don''t know what stock sister An has ess too, but I feel if there are other channels we could try other avenues, though of course not abandoning fabrics since the profit margins are still considerable." In case there were no new channels, he didn''t want to lose the old ones either.


    Zhi Xia thought for a bit, "Hu Zhou, don''t you feel ourrge scale sales are a bit too conspicuous?"


    But Hu Zhou justughed, "Sister An, when you first started in the ck market you didn''t understand the circumstances. Though superficially calm these years, there have always been undercurrents and maneuvering. We''re small frypared to those trafficking grain and mountain goods."


    Yet grain and fabric were ultimately not the same - grain was a consumable, needed daily, while clothes could be worn for years.


    Still, Zhi Xia''s words also gave Hu Zhou a wake up call. He knew a buddy involved in the grain trade, hearing they mostly relied on transport convoys to move goods out of province, having connections in factories forrge shipments and guarantees. Meanwhile he did private sales only in Jincheng, so the market was saturated much faster, also snatching business away from the supply and marketing agency and stores - truly risks provoking attention.


    Hu Zhou pondered that perhaps he should also give factory routes a try.


    Yet the feeling Hu Zhou gave Zhi Xia was someone suddenly struck rich, inevitably unsteady in his steps and floating along. This could be sensed from his conduct and speech. Over these years she had persisted until now before thinking of making money, with the core approach being prudent action.


    It could also be said she was timid. She truly didn''t understand the ck market, but also realized that without policy changes and opened circumstances,rge shipments of goods circting in one ce, no matter the type, could easily arouse others'' suspicions.


    So even if Hu Zhou hadn''te to find her today, she would have set aside time to find Hu Zhou - the fabric business needed to halt for now.


    At least for the time being, it couldn''t impact the supply and marketing agency and store''s business, as that would draw too much attention.

 Chapter 310: The Rainy Season

    <h4>Chapter 310</h4>


    After telling Hu Zhou her concerns, Zhi Xia didn''t n topletely cut off his business, she just reduced the supply amount.


    Although Hu Zhou was a little disappointed, he also expressed understanding, which made Zhi Xia feel much more at ease.


    Zhi Xia packed some dates she had picked for Hu Zhou to take away. The rest of the days continued to be overcast and rainy.


    With this weather, the fabric business had to stop. It was impossible to still do business in the rain. Too much umted fabric not only pressed costs but would also be damp and mildewy.


    After school, looking at the waterlogged road outside the school gate, Zhi Xia called Guo Momo, ��Why don��t you lock your bike at school first. Take advantage of this momentary break in the rain and I��ll give you a ride home so we can wrap up PingAn to avoid him catching a cold from the rain.��


    Although the weather wasn��t very cold, it was still somewhat cooler on overcast, rainy dayspared to normal.


    PingAn was already born prematurely, his health was weak, although he had improved a lot recently after recuperation, and could now walk a few steps independently, he still couldn��tpare to a normal child.


    Actually, he should be staying in PingAn''s dormitory, but PingAn had wet the bed yesterday, and the quilt wasn''t dry either, so he couldn''t sleep and could only go home in the rain.


    "Then I''ll have to trouble auntie, I��ll still have to trouble you toe pick us up tomorrow." Guo Momo was also a little embarrassed.


    "Get on," Zhi Xia didn''t say anything more.


    The puddles on the road were already deep enough to cover feet. Fine rain continued to fall from the sky. It wasn''t heavy but you could clearly feel the sensation of the drizzle hitting your face.


    After passing this stretch of waterlogged road, Zhi Xia dared to go faster.


    When they arrived at Guo Momo��s home, their clothes were already drenched and stuck ufortably to their bodies.


    Pei JianGuo had just gone out with an umbre and saw theming back.


    He took PingAn over and Guo Momo quickly said, "Auntie,e in and rest for a bit. Go back after the rain stops."


    Zhi Xia looked at her own wet clothes and declined, "No need, I��m wet already anyway. I��ll just go home and change. You guys go in quickly and give your kid a hot bath, don��t catch a cold."


    Compared to when they first left school, the rain was obviously heavier now.


    By the time Zhi Xia got home, Sister Zhang had already cooked.


    The sky was dark. Zhi Xia went to take a bath after telling Sister Zhang to eat first with the kids, and go home earlier after they finished eating.


    The next afternoon, the weather suddenly cleared. When Zhi Xia came back, she heard bad news as soon as she entered.


    Sister Zhang called to her, ��Zhi Xia, your uncle came this afternoon. Your grandma has passed away.��


    Zhi Xia��s body stiffened. She decisively turned her bike around, ��Sister Zhang, I��m going to the An family to ask about the situation. Please stay a while longer today.��


    ��Oh, don��t worry, I��ll keep an eye on things here.�� Sister Zhang quickly replied.


    The road was still wet, and there was a faint rainbow at the edge of the sky.


    As soon as Zhi Xia entered, she saw Zhou Nan crying in the yard, hands covering her cheeks, not daring to let go, with Liu Ling apanying her but also not daring to speak.


    What she needed now was catharsis rather thanfort.


    An JingZhi told her that Granny Zhou had tripped and fallen while checking the drainage ditch in the fields. By the time she was carried back she had already passed away.


    An Zhiren��s side had already been notified. He was in the capital city and would take two days at the earliest to arrive. An Zhiqing had rushed back but wouldn��t make it in time for the funeral. An ZhiXian couldn��t even make it back.


    It was said that Pei Jing and An ZhiAng had gone to the countryside for flood relief and they couldn��t contact them at all right now.


    Zhi Xiaforted Zhou Nan a few words, then went to tell Guo Momo to help ask for leave from school tomorrow before returning home.


    Early next morning, after giving Sister Zhang instructions on things at home and asking her to help pay more attention these two days, Zhi Xia hurried to the An family.


    Due to the recent rains, the buses could only go as far as the town. So the children weren��t allowed to go. The regards of the elderly couple could only be passed on in their stead.


    Looking out the window along the way, the crops in the fields were chaotic,rge areas were lying t on the ground.


    The four people, An JingZhi and his wife, Zhi Xia and Liu Ling, all wore rain boots. After getting off the bus they continued walking, one foot deep in mud and the other shallow.


    Both the fields and roads were filled with people, digging drainage ditches to drain water, and it was unknown how much of the crops could be salvaged.


    At the low-lying end of the fields, the road had been dug apart. A one-yard wide drainage ditch had a wooden boardid over it barely enough for a person to cross.


    Fortunately the children didn''te. Otherwise they probably couldn''t even get there.


    They finally arrived at Zhou Vige after getting mud spattered on their pants. But there were more pressing matters than keeping clean right now.


    The funeral hall had already been set up. Zhou Nan threw herself on the ground crying uncontrobly.


    Carefully calcting, thest time An JingZhi and Zhi Xia had brought Granny Zhou over, it turned out to be thest time mother and daughters spent time together.


    The sisters-inw rolled her over to get her up. Both Liu Ling��s and Zhi Xia��s eyes were red but Zhou Nan just couldn��t be pulled up, crying with snot and tears covering her face.


    In the main hall, they put on mourning clothes and Zhou Zhi Zhi and Zhou Yuanyuan led them into a room to rest.


    Everything was handled by the elders. They only needed to cry when mourning.


    Zhou Nan was severely impacted. When she came in she had to be supported by one arm. Zhi Xia secretly gave her some life water, afraid she wouldn��t make it through the funeral.


    The burial would only happen tomorrow. They could only stay here for the night.


    Zhou Zhi Zhi and the others didn��t go back either, bringing their families along, plus other rtives, there really wasn��t space in the house to amodate more people.


    Beds were given to more distant rtives who couldn��t handle hardship. Those with closer ties like them could onlyy bedding on the floor. Even the quilts were borrowed from neighbors.


    After lights out at night, Liu Ling lifted her quilt, using her jacket over her belly, unable to fall asleep for a long time.


    Zhi Xia also didn��t want to use this unknown quilt borrowed from someone else��s home. It even faintly smelled damp and moldy. But without sufficient coverage, mosquitoes kept biting her.


    Zhou Nan didn��t seem to mind such an environment at all. She spoke up tofort Liu Ling and Zhi Xia, ��Bear with it for one night you two. We��ll send grandma off tomorrow then go back.��


    Liu Ling softly hmm-ed, using the despised quilt to cover her legs.


    Zhi Xia took out mosquito coil incense and ced one in each corner of the bedding. After a while, she finally couldn��t hear the buzzing sound anymore but her legs were already bitten multiple times and kept itching.


    Just like that they passed the night. Even more rtives came to pay condolences the next day.


    Zhou Nan��s voice had gone hoarse from crying, evidencing her grief.

 Chapter 311: An Ji Ang Is Wounded

    <h4>Chapter 311</h4>


    After bidding farewell to Zhou Granny, I returned, covered in mud and water.


    Having had lunch, rtives started leaving one after another.


    The funeral was held at my eldest uncle''s house. Second aunt helped tidy up and returned borrowed items to their owners.


    Eldest uncle and second uncle had been busy for two days, but now they finally had some free time to discuss the hardships of this year with An JingZhi.


    Approaching the harvest season, heavy rain had been pouring continuously for half a month, causing numerous crops to copse. If Zhou Granny hadn''t been worried and gone to the fields alone, she wouldn''t have met with that ident and lost her life.


    Although we had anticipated that this year would be difficult, the actual hardships hadn''t reached us yet. Life must go on.


    "There are fewer people at home today, and there''s room for everyone to stay. I suggest you leave tomorrow and wait for the road conditions to improve," proposed my eldest uncle.


    An JingZhi felt ufortable staying for another night and said, "No, look at us. Some of us have to go to work, and some have to go to school. There are still a few children waiting at home. Let''s leave now. When you have free time,e visit us again. And Jianwen and Jianye, if they''re free, bring the children over to visit your aunt."


    "Well, if that''s the case, it''s better to leave early rather thante. Let me walk you out," my eldest uncle said as he got up to find an umbre. Although it was sunny now, the weather had been unpredictable this year, and it could start raining in no time.


    I quickly declined with a hoarse voice, "Brother, there''s plenty to do at home. We don''t need you to apany us. You have toe back on your ownter, and it''s not safe to walk on slippery roads in the dark. It really doesn''t put our minds at ease."


    It was still bright outside now, but it might not be when we returned.


    After much insistence, they finally left.


    My eldest aunt sighed as she watched them depart andined to my eldest uncle, "I told you to talk to our second sister-inw earlier and ask her to help find a good family for Zhizhi in the city. But you didn''t want to. Look at how things have turned out for Zhizhi. When Zhi Xia came to our house, she wasn''t as good as Zhizhi. But now, they both seem like they belong to different generations. And Sucun, since she moved to the city, she has changed so much. She even looks younger after giving birth."


    There is no pain withoutparison. The obvious contrast right in front of her eyes made it impossible for her not to feel heartbroken for her daughter.


    My eldest uncle''s face darkened. "Zhizhi already has children. Why are you bringing up these things now? Do you think it''s easy to find a good family in the city for our daughter? If it weren''t for our mother''s mediation and the fact that they are rtives, do you think Zhi Ren would have chosen Sucun? Let''s look at it from another perspective. Even if she managed to marry into the city, with our family''s background, would they treat our daughter well?"


    Appearances can be deceiving, and only the person experiencing the suffering knows the true extent of it.


    Sucun is truly enjoying a good life, and it''s also a stroke of luck.


    Her younger sister''s situation only improved in recent years when the children grew up. When she first arrived at the An family, she would cry every time she came back, just like a tearful person. Even the servants would gossip behind her back, looking down on the country girl who became the young mistress. Yet, this is still considered a good treatment for someone who married into a family of educated and well-mannered individuals.


    Now, things have taken a turn for the better. Her husband is getting older, and he asionally lowers his head. All the children are making progress.


    They didn''t have that kind of luck, so it''s best for them to just stay grounded and not think too much. Overthinking will only trouble themselves.


    When An ZhiAng came back, it was already three dayster. His left arm was fractured, and he had a cast on his neck, which needed some time to heal.


    As soon as Zhi Xia returned from school, Sister Zhang informed her about the news. An ZhiAng hade over as soon as he arrived and left after learning that Zhi Xia had gone to school, taking the triplets and Xiao Liu with him.


    As Zhi Xia rode her bicycle, nning to go to An''s house, she saw himing out of Grandma''s house. "Little sister, where are you going?" he asked.


    "I was just about toe and see you, Fourth Brother. Is your arm serious?" Zhi Xia asked with concern.


    "It''s just a minor injury, don''t worry. It''ll take some time to heal, but it''s also a good opportunity for me to rest." An ZhiAng said yfully. Perhaps only he knew how dangerous the scene was when he was hit by a stone while rescuing the dam at the reservoir.


    The two siblings chatted andughed as they walked inside, where all the children were ying.


    "By the way, Fourth Brother, what about Jing? We haven''t been able to contact him these past few days. Is he okay?"


    There was a note left in the room, saying that he had gone to the countryside to help with water diversion and river dredging. He mentioned that he would be busy during this time and asked her not to worry.


    "He''s doing fine, busy with the river dredging and leading a team," An ZhiAng replied impatiently.


    Hearing their conversation in the yard, Su Ying unexpectedly came out of the living room and greeted Zhi Xia.


    The fact that she could appear here meant that it was when Fourth Brother came back on the first day. Grandma probably hadn''t given up on the idea of matchmaking them.


    Zhi Xia immediately looked at An ZhiAng''s expression, but it remained the same, and she couldn''t tell anything.


    Grandma also came out of the house and said, "Zhi Xia, I''ve asked Sister Zhou to prepare some food. You and the children should stay here for dinner tonight. Fourth Brother will be staying on this side during this time, making it convenient for you two siblings to visit each other."


    "Alright, I''ll listen to Grandma. I''ll go and tell Sister Zhang to go back," Zhi Xia naturally wouldn''t refuse, but at the same time, she understood that their sibling interaction was just a side effect, and the main goal was to match Fourth Brother with Su Ying.


    Zhi Xia was actually happy about An ZhiAng''s love life.


    He wasn''t young anymore, and having someone who knows his coldness and warmth by his side is much warmer than being alone.


    There was also beer on the table, and Grandma suggested that Zhi Xia and Su Ying have a drink, clearly implying her intentions. Zhi Xia naturallyplied.


    After dinner, Grandma pulled Zhi Xia and Su Ying aside to talk, while An ZhiAng boredly sat in a chair, suggesting to Grandma, "Grandma, why not get a television for the house? Let my dad find a way?"


    Grandpa had a radio, and Grandma had a record yer. Each had their own hobbies.


    Since An ZhiAng rarely had a chance to rest, Grandma didn''t want him to go out and get into trouble, drinking and fighting with his group of friends.


    As he listened to their conversation, he had no interest in the topic at all. It was all so boring.


    "Fine, if you want to see it, go ahead." The olddy nced at him with annoyance, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips. She turned to Su Ying and said, "This boy has been spoiled by me since he was little. He''s straightforward and dares to make any demands."


    "Brother Four is truly genuine." Su Ying smiled subtly and stood up. "Grandma An, it''s gettingte. I should take my leave."


    "You''re leaving already? Let Brother Four apany you back. It''s not safe for a young girl to walk alone at night. What if she encounters a bad person?" The olddy found an excuse and instructed An ZhiAng, "Brother Four, get up quickly and escort Su Ying back."


    "Okay, as you wish. I''ll apany her," An ZhiAng reluctantly got up and leaped over the stool, directly approaching Su Ying. "Let''s go, Su Ying."


    "This troublesome child always worries me. Howe such a good girl doesn''t know how to make a move on him?" After the two left, the olddy sighed.


    "Grandma really likes Su Ying."


    "I''ve watched this child grow up. I know him inside out. But the main problem is your Brother Four. If I don''t put some pressure on him, he''ll probably end up being a lifelong bachelor even if he wants to find a wife. It''s a pity that Su Ying is interested in Brother Four, but he''s not responsive enough."

 Chapter 312: Eat the Dead

    <h4>Chapter 312</h4>


    Outside the door, An ZhiAng awkwardly touched his nose when he saw Su Ying push out her bicycle.


    Su Ying raised her eyebrows, "Fourth Brother, it''s not toote. You just got back and must be tired. Don''t send me back. I can go home myself."


    "I''ll still send you back. Grandma has spoken, if I don''t safely send you home, I can''t exin myself." An ZhiAng wanted to flick her nose but suddenly realized they were not kids anymore.


    In his heart, he was also cursing, why didn''t she say earlier that she didn''t want him to send her. They were already outside.


    "Then should I...give you a ride?" Su Ying looked at his arm still in a sling.


    "Look down on me? With one arm I can still give you a ride back." An ZhiAng felt mocked and said unconvinced, "What? You don''t dare to sit?"


    "It''s not that I don''t dare. It''s just that I don''t feel assured to let the injured Fourth Brother carry me."


    In the end, it was still Su Ying giving An ZhiAng a ride.


    She was very beautiful but not very tall, probably because of malnutrition during the time she was sent down.


    After all, in his opinion, Zhi Xia was like this too. That''s why she grew a bit taller aftering back.


    The Su Family house was a two-story building with a garden, more luxurious than the old An Family mansion that burned down in a fire.


    Su Ying stopped at the door and invited An ZhiAng in to sit for a while.


    He was going to refuse at first but remembered Elder Su was also inside so he should go in and greet him. That''s why he nodded.


    But when he went in, he realized there were a few other people and Su Ying''s expression instantly changed.


    "Elder Su, you have guests?" The woman in front of him had brought a man. He looked somewhat familiar but couldn''t remember where he had seen her.


    "Zhi Ang you came!" Elder Su originally had a dark expression but it softened when An ZhiAng arrived. He introduced, "This is Ying''s aunt and her nephew."


    The Su Family aunt vaguely remembered An ZhiAng and asked in confusion, "Zhi Ang? The An Family kid?"


    She was the daughter of Elder Su''s younger sister, Su Family''s niece.


    When misfortune befell the Su Family long ago, they had severed ties decisively. Now that she knew he didn''t have long to live, they were all cozying up to him again.


    Elder Su nodded and the aunt''s expression instantly became rigid.


    "Xiao Ran brought her boyfriend back. It''ste, I won''t keep you. Hurry home." Elder Su looked to be in very poor health, coughing as he spoke.


    Su Ying hurriedly went over to pour him water.


    The Su Family aunt looked at An ZhiAng and Su Ying with an ugly expression, clearly unhappy, before pulling her nephew to leave unwillingly.


    They had just left when Elder Su started coughing more severely, only catching his breath after half a day. "Zhi Ang, I was just rambling earlier. Don''t take offense."


    As he spoke, his throat sounded obstructed.


    An ZhiAng could guess what the problem probably was and shook his head unmindfully. "It''s nothing. Elder Su, may I help with anything?"


    He had heard from Elder and Madame that Su Ying''s situation was probably not good but didn''t expect that with Elder Su still around, people were already coercing their way into the house.


    Elder Su sighed. "This child Ying has tough luck. If you get the chance, help her more."


    Unless he married Su Ying, how else could he help?


    It was mere coincidence he bumped into them today. With his life in danger, it wasn''t only this one aunt hoping for the Su Family property, there were also rtives on her uncle''s side. When ties were severed decisively back then, now that they knew he didn''t have long to live, they were all cozying up.


    Elder Su told Su Ying to host An ZhiAng while he just dealt with his elder niece and was extremely tired, wanting to rest in his room.


    Su Ying poured water for An ZhiAng and sat to the side. "Sorry you had to see the farce today. Also, thanks for not exposing Grandpa earlier."


    An ZhiAng pulled his mouth taut, covering up by drinking water but still couldn''t help asking, "Has Elder Su seen a doctor?"


    "He''s seen one. Now relying on medicine to sustain him. Doctor said at most two more months." Perhaps having mentally prepared long ago, Su Ying was very calm.


    Time would always make one grow up. She had seen off her parents and grandma. Having gone through a lot in the countryside these years, she was no longer that little girl trailing behind them without a care in the world.


    An ZhiAng wanted tofort her but didn''t know what to say.


    Silence filled the air for some time before Su Ying spoke again. "I thought a lot about what you saidst time, Fourth Brother. You''re twenty-six now. I know you want freedom but you can''t stay unmarried forever. Madame and the others won''t agree either. And I need a connection to the An Family to preserve my reputation, or perhaps we can cooperate. After marrying me, I can give youplete freedom. You can also avoid the pestering to get married and don''t need to be responsible for me. In the future when you find someone you like, I can agree to a divorce..."


    An ZhiAng smiled. "If you can even agree to this, why must it be me?"


    "Probably because Fourth Brother is the one who least wants to marry me." Su Ying gave a self-deprecatingugh. "You saw it too. Today was just my aunt. There''s still my uncle, my auntie, all wanting me to marry their rtives, not because they want to marry me but my family property, to swallow the bereft household. And not just them, at my tailor shop on the street, when working overtime and going homete, hoodlums have blocked the doors before."


    The world had never been friendly to girls.


    Even when bullied, others would only say she was indecent. Su Ying had seen too much ugliness.


    Reporting to the police was useless too because no harm was done. At most they would be berated.


    An ZhiAng sucked in a breath. "Still, you don''t have to harm your own marriage. Su Ying, marriage is a major event, not kids ying house like we used to. With Elder Su still around, you should use this time to find a like-minded partner."


    At least An ZhiAng, though not wanting marriage now, never thought of it as a joke.


    "If Fourth Brother doesn''t want to agree then forget I mentioned it." Su Ying figured he truly didn''t like her.


    In the room, Elder Su opened the door a crack, frowning deeper the more he eavesdropped.


    He hurried back to bed and coughed violently. "Ying..."


    "Grandpa..." Hearing that, Su Ying immediately got up to go over, An ZhiAng following quickly behind.


    "Throat''s badly obstructed. Haven''t had medicine today. Go boil medicine for me." Elder Su took Chinese medicine to nourish himself.


    "Didn''t I just brew it for you before leaving? Why didn''t you drink it?" Su Ying instantly panicked.


    "Didn''t see the fire. Brewed dry then that annoying aunt came." Elder Su said.


    Su Ying hurriedly left. Elder Su called for An ZhiAng again. "Zhi Ang, please help pour me water."


    Only after An ZhiAng brought over the water did he ask, "Does Elder Su have anything to say to me?"

 Chapter 313: Are You Sure You Have These Qualities

    <h4>Chapter 313</h4>


    "ZhiAng, call me grandpa. I''ll speak inly. Don''t get angry no matter if I''m right or wrong," Elder Su sighed and said, "Don''t listen to Little Ying''s nonsense. It''s true that she wants you to be her backer, but the real reason is that Little Ying likes you."


    These words gave An ZhiAng a different feeling.


    "This girl has liked you since she was little. When you yed house as kids, she would only be your bride. Do you still remember?"


    An ZhiAng did have this impression.


    The year Su Ying was sent down to the countryside, he had a big fight with An JingZhi. It was because he refused to help broker things for the Su family and went to live in Zhou Vige for two months before his second brother brought him back.


    Later on, he realized that back then he was also powerless. Otherwise, given the rtionship between the two families, it would have been impossible for him to stand idly by.


    As time went by, the childhood feelings gradually faded, and many details were also forgotten.


    "Originally, when bringing up the marriage proposal, your grandma wanted to match your third brother and Little Ying. It was because Little Ying liked you that I shamelessly made the suggestion."


    Elder Su felt somewhat regretful about this. If she had been matched with the third brother back then, things might have worked out.


    But after considering the younger brother, she couldn''t choose the older brother again. Otherwise, how awkward would that be for them in the future.


    It wasn''t that his granddaughter had to marry into the An family. It was just that under the current circumstances, the An family was the only one he could trust to give his granddaughter away to.


    If Elder Su didn''t have little time left, given the slight disagreement An ZhiAng had shown earlier, Elder Su wouldn''t have given him another chance.


    He could only sigh that fate toyed with people. With the Su family only having this one seedling left, what could be done?


    An ZhiAng still didn''t dare to believe it. "That can''t be. Why would she like me?"


    He still had some self-awareness. In his dad''s words, his past self was detestable to both humans and dogs. Any dog that saw him would circle around three times to get away.


    Recalling his pre-sixteen year old self, the twenty-six year old An ZhiAng really disliked that version of himself too.


    "Why she likes you, to tell the truth, I also don''t know. But this girl does like you." Elder Su also couldn''t recall any merits of the past An ZhiAng. Just his appearance was considered passable enough to attract young girls.


    An ZhiAng''s gaze nced towards the doorway. That was a dark area where a faint shadow that appeared and disappeared from time to time.


    Perhaps even he himself didn''t realize, but the corners of his lips had already unconsciously curved up.


    "Little Ying, go send ZhiAng off."


    Elder Su''s voice gave Su Ying a fright. She hurriedly ran off before responding.


    An ZhiAng appeared at the door. Seeing her clutching her chest while forcing herself to stay calm, she had an adorable appearance.


    Su Ying felt a little nervous. "Let''s go. I''ll walk you to the door."


    Until An ZhiAng walked out the main entrance, neither of them spoke another word.


    Watching An ZhiAng''s back, Su Ying''s wildly beating heart suddenly calmed down for a moment. "An ZhiAng, didn''t you ask what I liked about you?"


    An ZhiAng looked back. His gaze clearly carried bewilderment as he waited for her to continue speaking.


    "I like your kindness, courage and sense of justice."


    Su Ying looked straight at him after she finished speaking, anxiously waiting for his response.


    "Sis, you''ve got it wrong! Are you sure I have those qualities you speak of?" An ZhiAng avoided her a bit. He hurriedly turned around, "Alright alright, I''m going home. You should hurry back inside too."


    "You can ride my bike home."


    "No need. It''s not far anyway. I''ll walk."


    Su Ying disappointedly shut the main gate. She leaned against the door with slightly reddened eyes.


    The year An ZhiAng turned 16, she was 13.


    In a single night, a sudden ident befell her family.


    Her paternal grandfather and father were taken away first. She and her mother were also publicly criticized. Her female ssmate who she didn''t get along with punched and kicked her while shouting to shave all of her hair off.


    No one knew how hopeless Su Ying felt at that time. It was when An ZhiAng suddenly appeared with Liu Jun and the rest that they rescued her down. It had felt especially heartwarming then. Even in the end, they still couldn''t escape the fate of being sent down.


    On the day she left, Liu Jun said that An ZhiAng had been locked at home and couldn''te out.


    During her 10 years in the countryside, each time she got bullied, she especially missed that protected feeling when he held her in his embrace. She would think that if he was there, he would surely disregard all else to protect her.


    She thought he would treat her differently, yet it turned out he didn''t like her at all.


    Back then, he had probably just seen her the same as Liu Jun and the rest.


    After walking a fair distance away, An ZhiAng finally heaved a sigh of relief.


    He really didn''t expect that all along, he had believed Su Ying just simply wanted to find shelter. Yet now she would have to participate in a marriage because of it. It really wasn''t a wise decision.


    To think she actually liked him. An ZhiAng couldn''t clearly describe what feeling he currently had in his heart.


    "Hey! What are you thinking about?" Liu Jun stared at An ZhiAng for half a day. Seeing that he had nked out, he suddenly blocked An ZhiAng''s path.


    An ZhiAng subconsciously threw a punch upwards. Liu Jun couldn''t dodge in time and instantly had blood flowing from his nose.


    "F*ck, An ZhiAng! Are you trying to kill me? Be careful or I''ll bring you in and sentence you for assaulting a cop!" Liu Jun hurriedly pinched his nose, but could still feel the flowing blood.


    "Sh*t! Would I hit you if you didn''t scare me?" An ZhiAng also hadn''t expected this.


    After a moment of chaos, the two sat at the roadside. But Liu Jun''s sleeves were already dyed red.


    "What were you thinking about? I called you for half a day and you didn''t even notice." Liu Jun looked at the injured arm An ZhiAng had. He lifted his hand, wanting to pinch it. "What''s wrong? Disabled?"


    "Piss off. Just be happy I''m not getting better." An ZhiAng avoided him and stood up. "Know any good ces? To drink two cups?"


    "Can you even do that? Don''t get disabled again after drinking yourself disabled!"


    The two chatted andughed, cursed and yelled. Under the moonlight, their skipping shadows stretched very long.


    When An ZhiAng returned home reeking of alcohol, he stopped at the main gate. He sniffed himself then took a turn. Supporting himself against the wall with one hand, he jumped into the Pei family residence.


    Pei ChenYe was just about to put away his toys and sleep when he heard knocking at the door. "ChenYe, asleep?"


    "Fourth uncle! Why have youe?" Pei ChenYe hurriedly opened the door.


    "I''vee to keep youpany. Your fourth uncle is now homeless and can only rely on you now."


    After An ZhiAng entered the room, looking at the tidy space andparing it to the doghouse his had been, he felt rather unhappy.


    "Kid, at your young age keeping yourself neat and proper. Aren''t you tired? Let your fourth uncle tell you, children should look like children. Don''t learn from your dad..."


    When Pei Jing was young he kept himself well-behaved. The nearby children didn''t dislike him. An ZhiAng took the lead.


    But as he was an elder, An ZhiAng still had to make way around him since he couldn''t win in a fight.


    Pei ChenYe smiled. "Fourth uncle, go take a bath? I''ll go get my dad''s clothes for you to change into."


    "Is your mom asleep? Don''t wake her."


    Pei ChenYe felt speechless. So he couldn''t wake his mom up but it was fine to wake him up?


    "It''ll be fine. I''m going to get the clothes for you." He ran out and stealthily took a set of Pei Jing''s pajamas from his space.


    An ZhiAng watched him in the room. On the table were a few mechanical parts. Feeling dizzy, he started seeing double and couldn''t make out what they were.


    Pei ChenYe quickly returned. "Fourth uncle, I brought the pajamas. Hurry and go shower. I need to sleep too."

 Chapter 314: Novelty and Excitement

    <h4>Chapter 314</h4>


    As the morning dawned, Zhi Xia only then realized that An ZhiAng had slept here with Chen Ye yesterday.


    During breakfast, An ZhiAng took a steamed bun and took a bite, savoring the sweet taste that filled his mouth. "Little sister, the food here is good, isn''t it? Do you have enough money to spend?"


    Just for breakfast, they finished off a basket of in steamed buns. Chen Ye alone had eaten three of them. Among the three dishes and rice porridge, the only impression left on him was that it was difficult to raise six children. If they were in a poor family, they probably wouldn''t have enough to eat.


    Zhi Xia paused for a moment, only then realizing his meaning. "Of course we have enough. We have our own money, so my dear fourth brother, you don''t need to send me money anymore. You''re not young anymore, so save it for yourself."


    She had been saving the money he sent over the years, nning to return it to him when the opportunity arose. The household expenses weren''t much, mainly Sister Zhang''s sry. asionally, she would go buy groceries, but Zhi Xia brought back rice, flour, and meat. They even had vegetables growing in the backyard during the summer.


    Unfortunately, An ZhiAng didn''t know any of this.


    "I have money now, so spend what I send you. No need to be frugal with me," An ZhiAng said. "It''s you, you''ve been sending me things over the years. Those things can''t be bought with money. Zhi Xia, you should think more about yourself, you know?"


    Although they didn''t grow up together, ever since they found out about each other''s existence, they had a different kind of connection with each other.


    An ZhiAng had never asked Zhi Xia about those obviously special things, nor had he ever refused. He hoped she wouldn''t refuse him either, just like he never refused her.


    "I know, I know Fourth Brother loves me the most, but if you see the food in our home, you can guess that our life is not bad now. So, you can rest assured," Zhi Xia said helplessly.


    The summer days were long, and it wasn''t time for school yet after they finished eating.


    Chen Ye and Wanqing had already been called away by their little friends, and Sister Zhang was washing clothes by the water basin. Zhi Xia returned to her room and saw that An ZhiAng had followed her.


    "Fourth Brother, do you have something to tell me?" she asked.


    Since they started eating, she noticed that his gaze was always somewhat ambiguous, with a look of wanting to say something but holding back.


    But he hadn''t spoken up, and she didn''t want to ask.


    "It''s something," An ZhiAng clenched his fist and coughed near his lips. "Little sister, tell me, what does it feel like to love someone?"


    He had asked Liu Jun this same question yesterday, but Liu Jun and his wife had met through a blind date. He couldn''t hear anything special between them, which made him feel lonely.


    But Zhi Xia was different. An ZhiAng had always believed that she and Pei Jing were a perfect match.


    This question, however, left Zhi Xia somewhat bewildered. She suddenly thought of him taking Su Ying home yesterday, and her eyes brightened.


    "Fourth Brother, is it about you and Su Ying?" Zhi Xia raised an eyebrow at him.


    An ZhiAng felt somewhat uneasy. "Don''t misunderstand. I''m asking on behalf of a friend. You know, I have many friends!"


    "Oh, so you''re talking about a friend," Zhi Xia teased him deliberately. "But everyone''s situation is different, and I don''t really know what your friend''s situation is, so it''s hard to say."


    "Well, there''s this girl who has liked him for many years and wants to marry him, but he doesn''t know if he should agree," An ZhiAng spoke rapidly, and his nervousness and confusion were palpable.


    Zhi Xia fell silent, earnestly contemting the question.


    What does love feel like?


    It suddenly dawned on her that she didn''t really know.


    She and Pei Jing had fallen into a natural rtionship. At first, it was a marriage based on responsibility, butter on, his gentle and considerate nature made her feel good about being with him, as if she had gained something.


    But did she love Pei Jing?


    She didn''t even know herself.


    Or perhaps, did Pei Jing love her?


    She only knew that she didn''t reject him and even cherished the tenderness he gave her.


    In her memories, he was always caring and concerned about her feelings, doing his best to take care of her and their child.


    In eight years, they never argued or fought. They worked things out through discussion, and he would always try to amodate her.


    Their life was happy and peaceful, yet sometimes she felt like something was missing.


    But honestly speaking, she was content with her current life.


    An ZhiAng saw that Zhi Xia remained silent for a while and turned to look at her, only to find a look of confusion on her face.


    In that moment, he suddenly realized something.


    An ZhiAng may not be the most intelligent person, but that didn''t mean he was foolish.


    He used to think that Zhi Xia waspletely satisfied with Pei Jing, always speaking up for him.


    Now, for the first time, he realized that his sister also didn''t understand love, yet she had married at such a young age.


    So, what could be the reason behind this oue?


    Zhi Xia''s thoughts were interrupted by An ZhiAng, who said, "Zhi Xia, you should go to school."


    Zhi Xia nodded and told him, "Fourth Brother, I think instead of agonizing over love, it''s better to seriously consider whether the other person is suitable for you. Love is just a momentary excitement, attracted by the novelty the other person brings. But whether it''s excitement or novelty, they will fade away with time. If your friend ns to marry this person and spend a lifetime together,patibility is more important than love for longsting happiness."


    In that moment, Zhi Xia''s eyes sparkled because she felt that she and Pei Jing were verypatible.


    Love needs excitement and novelty, but life only requires peace and stability, and that is enough.


    But after speaking, she suddenly realized that this was just her own perspective. She shouldn''t let her temporary insight lead Fourth Brother to make the wrong choice and regret itter.


    So she quickly added, "Fourth Brother, this is just my opinion. Everyone has different needs and experiences. You should make your friend think carefully about what he wants. After all, no one can predict the future, and we can only grasp the present. If the girl who confesses to him now decides to marry someone else, can he ept it?"


    The final question was thrown back to herself.


    But when I heard what Xia said, it seemed to make more sense than what that guy Liu Jun said.


    ording to Liu Jun, marriage has absolutely no benefits. After getting married, a wife''s personality changespletely. She nags him like she nags their son, constantly arguing every few days. She even wants to control what clothes he wears. And then there''s the mother-inw and daughter-inw conflicts, the trivial household matters. Just thinking about it sends shivers down his spine.


    Well, forget it. Marriage isn''t suitable for him. He''d rather stay single.


    Being alone is so much better. He can do whatever he wants without any burdens. Why bother thinking about getting married?


    Just the thought of this nonexistent thing is already giving him a headache. If he were to end up like Liu Jun after getting married, he''s afraid he would copse.


    A month passed quickly, and An ZhiAng is about to return to his unit.


    Before leaving, Grandma wants the whole family to get together, and she specifically asked An ZhiAng to pick up Su Ying. But Su Ying didn''te, saying that she''s busy at home and won''te over.

 Chapter 315: Young Man, be Reserved.

    <h4>Chapter 315</h4>


    "What exactly is going on between you and Little Ying? Old Four, you didn''t bully her, did you?" This past month, Granny hadn''t missed any opportunities to try and matchmake the two. Yet she discovered that not only was An ZhiAng uncooperative, even Su Ying no longer seemed interested.


    "Nothing happened, with you looking out for her, how could I dare bully her!" An ZhiAng''s expression was equally unhappy as he said, "If she''s unwilling toe then just leave it be, can''t we eat by ourselves?"


    Granny scolded in frustration, "You stubborn boy, if you miss your chance with Little Ying, you''ll regret it one day."


    An ZhiAng uncharacteristically didn''t argue back and quietly ate his food.


    Zhi Xia had told him to consider carefully, but from a bystander''s perspective, the fourth brother didn''t seem to bepletely disinterested in the girl either.


    So why was he being so stubborn about it?


    Since Su Ying didn''te, Granny was clearly unhappy and barely touched her food.


    An ZhiAng was also in low spirits and hurriedly finished eating before slipping away.


    Later Zhi Xia asked him, "You really don''t like Su Ying? I see she''s quite eager to find a partner. Be careful or you''ll miss your chance after she''s gone."


    "You too?" An ZhiAng rubbed his freshly cut hair in irritation and refused to acknowledge anyone as he slipped away.


    The deserted streets were pitch ck. Having grown so familiar with them, his feet carried him to the foot of the Su family home before he knew it.


    During the day, Su Ying was usually at her tailor shop in the small alley, but because of Grandpa Su''s health, she generally came home quite early in the afternoons.


    Through therge iron gate, he could see the lights were on in the first floor living room, but the second floor where Su Ying lived was shrouded in darkness.


    An ZhiAng couldn''t tell if she was home or not for a moment. Or rather, why did he evene here and what would he do if she was home? Would he go in to find her?


    He was leaving tomorrow. The short month felt like the most tangled period he had ever experienced in his life.


    It seemed nothing had gone as he wished.


    "What are you doing at my house entrance?"


    Su Ying had returned, pushing her cart from the back alley, and immediately spotted An ZhiAng peering around the gate.


    He was also given a fright, and reacted quickly to counter, "Why are youing home sote?"


    "Something held me up." Su Ying looked exhausted, also a bit distracted.


    His mind immediately went to an unpleasant ce, "Was someone harassing you again? Is it your auntie''s nephew? Or your aunt''s..."


    "What does it have to do with you? You don''t care anyway, right?"


    Su Ying had just been stopped and subjected to harsh words. She was very upset, but also understood that she shouldn''t take out her anger on An ZhiAng. "I''m sorry, I lost myposure."


    If he still insisted on rejecting her, then she hoped he would stay away from her.


    Pushing her cart to brush past him, An ZhiAng grabbed her wrist, "Su Ying..."


    Her cart crashed to the ground. An ZhiAng also didn''t expect that the usually gentle-natured Su Ying would suddenly fling away the cart, hook her arms around his neck, and kiss him.


    With his abilities, evading should have been easy as pie.


    Yet for some reason, he just let her seed.


    The touch of her lips was soft and sweet.


    An ZhiAng held her shoulders in shock, eyes wide and lips parted, which gave Su Ying a chance to act.


    Her momentum wavered for a moment. The originally vengeful kiss became more fiery the moment their tongues met.


    "Oh my goodness!"


    The sudden cry interrupted them. Like a stealing mouse, Su Ying hurriedly hid behind An ZhiAng.


    "Youngsters, have some self-restraint. At least get home first..." The woman who discovered them covered her eyes, wanting to advise but too embarrassed to utter the words. She turned and went back inside, closing the door with a loud bang, hinting that her shock was no less than theirs.


    "I...I''m going home!" Su Ying also lost her nerve, didn''t even dare look at An ZhiAng.


    Unconsciously licking her lips, that lingering sweetness made one somewhat reluctant, still wanting...


    When he turned back, Su Ying was already gone.


    After entering her home, Su Ying also felt some regret.


    Heavens, what was she doing?


    She had forced herself onto An ZhiAng.


    Although not afraid he would take revenge, still, how awkward would their future interactions be?


    She must have lost her mind to do something like that.


    Probably not even friends anymore in the future.


    Yet An ZhiAng was stroking his lips as if savoring the memory.


    Suddenly he felt that perhaps marrying a wife wasn''t without benefits. For example...


    The 26-year-old man''s first love awakened, his ears red like a young maiden as his thoughts meandered to who knows where.


    Liu Jun had just prepared for bed when he heard the knocks.


    Ignoring his wife''s murderous gaze, An ZhiAng seeded in getting Liu Jun out.


    "Bro, don''t worry. Your wife is my wife. In the future, whoever dares make a move on him will have crossed me, Liu Jun. As long as they fall into my hands, even the King of Hell will have to peel ayer of their skin." Halfway there, Liu Jun thumped his chest and guaranteed An ZhiAng.


    "F*ck, Liu Jun I''ll cripple your sycophantic legs!" An ZhiAng shouted while chasing him.


    Liu Jun begged for mercy, "I''m wrong, An ZhiAng, let me go. Ow ow ow, it hurts..."


    Hu Zhou had just gotten off work and saw An ZhiAng and Liu Jun walking over arm in arm.


    Remembering Zhi Xia told him not to let An ZhiAng know about not wanting to do business, his body reacted faster than his brain and he turned to run away.


    But Liu Jun''s eyes were even quicker. "Old An, look over there, isn''t that Hu Zhou?"


    They were brothers back in the day. Although they had grown more distant over the years, they could still recognize each other.


    Especially since Hu Zhou had looked for Liu Jun''s help several times recently, in order to get closer to him.


    "Looks like little Hu. Why''s he running? Afraid we''ll eat him up?" An ZhiAng said unhappily.


    "Wait here, I''ll go catch him back to get things clear. Let me tell you, I don''t know where he got his connectionstely, but he hasn''tcked in business or money. Today we shouldn''t stand on ceremony with him. We have to bleed him dry." Liu Jun said and took off running. An ZhiAngughed and leisurely waited for his return.


    Soon enough, Liu Jun brought the man back.


    An ZhiAng grabbed his cor looking him up and down, "Can''t argue with that, this guy''s dressed better than me. What are you running for? Afraid I''d ask to borrow money?"


    "Brothers An and Liu, let''s not joke around. If I have money, just say the word and I''ll lend it to you, no questions asked. I was just hurrying back to see my daughter. Her life''s been hard, losing her mum after being born. Today I left her with the neighbor auntie beforeing out." Hu Zhou wiped his tears, appealing to their sympathy. "My poor daughter, I had to entrust her to the neighbor auntie beforeing out today."


    "Time sure flies. To think you already have a daughter." An ZhiAng hadn''t contacted those brothers for years. He only knew about the well-off situations of a few, thanks to Liu Jun''s updates.


    Liu Jun suggested, "It''s thiste already. Dying a bit won''t hurt. Bumping into each other is a rare chance. Come on, we''ll go drink."


    Although he couldn''t openly run a business, he had quite a few side operations going on.


    Su Ying''s tailor shop, the small restaurant down the alley, just not formally registered, that was all. No one knew better than Liu Jun.


    From Hu Zhou''s words, it seemed he really struck gold.


    But An ZhiAng and Liu Jun also knew boundaries. Things that shouldn''t be asked, won''t be asked. Drinking together posed no problems.

 Chapter 316: Teach the fourth brother to chase the object

    <h4>Chapter 316</h4>


    The sun had just risen when the olddy came over looking for someone, ��Zhi Xia, is your fourth brother at your ce?��


    ��Fourth brother?�� Zhi Xia had not seen anyone, so she went to ask her son, ��Chenye, is your fourth uncle in your room?��


    Because these days, he often went to hang out with Chenye.


    Sure enough, Chenye came out from the room to answer, ��He��s here. He came back sotest night and is still not fully awake.��


    ��This rascal, he said he was going to leave early this morning. Look howte it is and he''s still asleep.�� The olddy said as she walked towards Chenye��s room,ining, ��Running over here in the middle of the night, doesn''t he know Chenye has school?��


    An ZhiAng hoarsely sat up from the bed, ��My dear granny, with this kid''s IQ, missing a day or two won''t affect him. Don''t worry. And today is the weekend, what school is there!��


    He had heard that Chenye was ranked 2nd in the mid-term exam, only because he jumped directly from 2nd grade to 4th grade. And in the cement test at the start of this semester, he had steadily scored 1st.


    Even if An ZhiAng didn''t want to admit it, he had to admit that this was definitely due to inheriting Pei Jing''s genes.


    Notpletely though. After all, apart from him being unreliable, the other three siblings in their family were quite reliable. His younger sister had even self-studied her way into Jin City University.


    Thinking this way, it seemed like he was the worst in the family, which was quite disheartening.


    ��Chenye is smart. That can''t be a reason for you to disturb him. The olddy red at him, ��Didn''t you say you were leaving? I had Mrs. Zhou prepare some spicy sauce for you to share with Xiao Jing.��


    An ZhiAng thought about what happenedst night. Feeling guilty, he didn''t dare look the olddy in the eye. ��Granny, I...I won''t leave yet. I''ll call to ask for a few more days of leave.��


    ��You''re not leaving?�� The olddy was very surprised. She didn''t want him to leave the past few days, after all, though the cast was removed, there''s an old saying that recovering from injuries to muscles and bones takes a hundred days. He still wasn''t fully recovered. Unfortunately, she just couldn''t stop him.


    Now that everything was prepared, he suddenly didn''t want to leave. The olddy couldn''t help but ponder.


    ��Fourth child, you didn''t get into trouble again, did you?�� She couldn''t be med for overthinking. After all, she had a lot of experience with things like this happening before he joined the army.


    Every time he got into trouble, this kid would hide here, if not, he would go to Zhou Vige.


    ��Granny, can''t you think better of me?�� An ZhiAng pleaded hoarsely, ��I''ve thought it through. I''ll listen to you and marry Su Ying.��


    ��What did you say?�� The olddy didn''t hear clearly. But looking at the awkward expression of her grandson, she guessed it wasn''t good news.


    ��I said I''ll marry Su Ying.��


    It was a bolt from the blue, leaving the olddy speechless for a while.


    When she finally reacted, she let out a sigh instead.


    An ZhiAng frowned, seeing that the olddy didn''t look very happy. He asked, "Didn''t you hope that I would marry Su Ying? I agreed, so why the expression?"


    The olddy red at him and turned to leave.


    An ZhiAng stared wide-eyed at her back, then looked at Zhi Xia, "What does this mean?"


    "I guess...she doesn''t approve of this marriage anymore." Zhi Xia deliberately teased him.


    "That''s not..." An ZhiAng suddenly felt helpless.


    Seeing him chasing after the olddy, Zhi Xia followed along too.


    Although she didn''t know what was going on, her instinct told her something must have happened between the fourth brother and Su Ying, which made him change his mind.


    When the olddy got home, An ZhiAng had caught up. "My dear granny, what do you mean?"


    Grandpa put down his newspaper and looked up to ask, "What''s the matter?"


    An ZhiAng quickly exined the situation to Grandpa. Grandpa stole a nce at the olddy''s expression, lightly coughed, and silently picked up the newspaper to continue reading where he left off.


    Seeing they were both like this, An ZhiAng felt even more uncertain.


    Zhi Xia quietly asked the olddy, "Granny, why do you suddenly disapprove of the fourth brother marrying Su Ying?"


    "Who said I disapprove? I''d love for it to happen. It''s just that your fourth brother gets ideas out of the blue. Marriage is for tying families, not feuds. When I first tried matchmaking them, he was unwilling. Now out of the blue he says he wants to marry her. If I readily agree, and he changes his mind afterwards, how will I exin to Su Grandpa?" These were the olddy''s words. "If he wants to marry her, he should go propose to her himself. I don''t have the face to speak for him anymore."


    Zhi Xia smiled, "You know the fourth brother''s temperament. He didn''t understand his own feelings at first. Now that he''s finallye around, you''re overly cautious. Don''t make him repress it again."


    "If he can really repress it, it shows his feelings aren''t that firm. It''d be better not to marry in that case." The olddyined, "In my opinion, he''s just mischievous. When I was eager for it to happen, he didn''t want it. He has to tease me before he''ll do it. I''ll find a chance to have a good talk with that Su Ying girl, don''t let her be so easily lured by this kid. He needs to suffer a bit first to learn to cherish in the future."


    That''s what the olddy said, but Zhi Xia was certain she would be the first to give in.


    An ZhiAng was already asking Pei Jing for leave, using the reason that his arm still wasn''t healed.


    In fact, it had recovered over half a month ago. After all, having taken enhancement drugs before, his body functions and recovery speed weren''t like ordinary people.


    Pretending it still hadn''t recovered was just to cover things up, afraid of attracting attention for being too special.


    Of course Pei Jing also understood the situation.


    So using this reason to extend his leave wouldn''t work for him. But considering that An ZhiAng also hadn''t taken any leave these past few years, he reluctantly approved the leave.


    After putting down the phone, An ZhiAng went to pull Zhi Xia along, "Let''s go, little sister. Big brother will take you to see your sister-inw."


    He deliberately nced at the olddy, "Since a certain olddy is unwilling to help, don''t regret it!"


    In response, he got a cold snort.


    Watching the siblings walk away hand in hand, Grandpaughed to himself. "Fourth child, time is tight. You have to hurry and prepare. Our family will soon have an additional mouth to feed. Fourth child still has to return to the army. And Su Ying still needs to take care of her grandfather. Let''s hold the wedding here, and after marriage, they can live at the Su house. The Su house only has Su Ying now. They''ll have to see Su Grandpa off one way or another."


    Once out the door, Zhi Xia rescued her wrist from his hand, "Fourth brother, you two should nurture your feelings. What''s the point of me going along, being a light bulb? I won''t go. You go yourself."


    "Of course you have to go. She''ll be your fourth sister-inw in the future. You have to go take care of business, don''t you?" An ZhiAng didn''t dare say he was too embarrassed to look for Su Ying himself.


    Last night''s events had given him dreams all night. He had taken two cold showers in a row, and actually barely slept at all.


    Let alone going to see Su Ying now, just thinking about it made him feel restless.


    In the end, Zhi Xia was still forcibly dragged along.


    On the way, Zhi Xia saw a flower bed with many small flowers nted in it in front of a household, exuding a kind of messy beauty.


    She suddenly thought of something and asked An ZhiAng to stop. She ran over, gave the owner 5 cents, and plucked a handful of pretty blooms tied with a rubber band.


    "Fourth brother, there are proper methods to pursuing girls. No girl can resist the charm of gifts. Since you didn''t prepare in advance today, start with a bouquet of flowers." In Zhi Xia''s eyes, An ZhiAng deciding so decisively earlier to stand firm saying he would marry her was quite sudden after all.


    "Tsk, I think you''re the one who likes it. These things onlyst a few days before having to be thrown away." An ZhiAng disdained.


    "Straight man!" Zhi Xia rolled her eyes from behind him.

 Chapter 317: Becoming a Tool Man

    <h4>Chapter 317</h4>


    Su Ying was quite busy today, with several guests in her small courtyard.


    It was a good half day before she had time toe over and greet them, "What brings you here?"


    "Winter is almost upon us, Zhi Xia wanted to make some clothes, so she thought ofing here."


    Zhi Xia realized for the first time that he could tell lies without blushing at all, lookingpletely serious, as if it were true.


    "That''s right, I''m here to have clothes made, definitely not because someone dragged me here." Zhi Xia wouldn''t let him take the me and secretly made mischief.


    An ZhiAng nced at her, and became nervous again when he looked at Su Ying.


    But Su Ying just turned around and went to get a ruler to take Zhi Xia''s measurements, clearly not having heard what she said.


    Zhi Xia understood that she was just a prop, and soon made excuses to go out for a walk.


    Su Ying was also pretending to stay calm, "Didn''t you say you were going back to your team today?"


    "That was the original n, but I suddenly thought of some unfinished business, so I''m going to finish it before I leave." An ZhiAng had his hands behind his back, rubbing the bouquet Zhi Xia had forcibly stuffed into his hands, but was thinking about what kind of excuse he could use to give it to her.


    "Oh." Su Ying paid him no more attention and went about her business.


    Neither of them mentioned what had happenedst night until muchter, when Su Ying realized he hadn''t left yet.


    "I''m sorry aboutst night."


    "Sorry for what? For kissing me?" An ZhiAng asked her.


    Su Ying''s movements stalled, feeling humiliated, and said no more.


    "If you''re really sorry, then..." An ZhiAng licked his lips relishingly, "Then let me kiss you back."


    "An ZhiAng..."


    Su Ying turned around, but bumped into his arms because of the close distance.


    An ZhiAng took the opportunity to lower his head and pin her against the edge of the table with one hand.


    This time, he set the pace.


    By the time Zhi Xia had finished her walk and came back, she found that the courtyard door was closed and even locked from the inside, she couldn''t push it open.


    She couldn''t see anything through the crack in the door, and no one opened it for her after waiting for a long time.


    She was very helpless, so she just left first.


    In the afternoon, she took the kids out for a walk, and when she came back it was already evening.


    Sister Zhang had locked the door and was not at home, so Zhi Xia went to the olddy to get the key and found Fourth Brother and Su Ying there, as well as An JingZhi and his wife and son, the old gentleman and olddy were smiling from ear to ear.


    Zhi Xia also smiled and poked An ZhiAng in the shoulder.


    He looked back at her and winked, and Zhi Xia secretly gave him a thumbs up.


    However, Zhi Xia was still a little confused. Even if the two had settled their marriage, it didn''t warrant such a grand celebration, did it?


    Sister Zhang was also called over to help with the cooking, and it was a hot and busy scene in the kitchen with Mrs. Zhou.


    Old Lady and Zhou Nan were discussing arrangements for the wedding, while asking Su Ying for her opinion.


    Su Ying just kept her head down and said she''d listen to whatever grandma said.


    In the yard, Liu Ling walked over, "Little sister, it''s grandpa and grandma''s intention to have Fourth Brother''s wedding here, I guess this house will be left to Fourth Brother in the future."


    She couldn''t help but overthink it a bit, maybe because of the previous matter of dividing up the family property.


    Time froze for a few seconds before Zhi Xia spoke, "Then ording to Sister-inw''s thinking, the wedding you and Big Brother had at dad and mom''s ce means dad and mom''s house should be left to you two, right? Not to mention Second Brother''s house was allocated by the school, and Third Brother doesn''t have one yet."


    Liu Ling was taken aback, seemingly not expecting her to speak so directly, after all they had always had a very good rtionship.


    However, it was true that she and Fourth Brother were twins, and the two siblings were closer than anyone else.


    Fourth Brother was the baby of the family whom everyone doted on, and the daughter-inw was highly valued by Grandpa and Grandma, bringing a huge dowry from the entire Su family, and she could also earn money herself.


    With her arrival, she and Second Brother''s wife would probably have topromise, which was what worried her most.


    It wasn''t until dinner time that Zhi Xia realized that she had only thought the marriage was settled, but unexpectedly, he had coaxed Su Ying into getting the marriage certificate done.


    This speed startled her.


    After dinner, An ZhiAng ran off to the Su house with Su Ying.


    Old Lady sighed at the sight and then said, "Don''t dy the wedding, hurry up and get it done, don''t let lives be messed up before the wedding."


    Seeing his son''s impatience, Zhou Nan was also somewhat embarrassed, "Why don''t we do it in the next few days, it''s tight but still enough. I just don''t know if Old Master Su has any other requirements."


    Wen Qing wanted to stay with Chenye to sleep since they were in the same grade.


    Liu Ling had said no to him for a long time before An JingZhi spoke up to let him stay.


    When Zhi Xia returned home, she sorted out her bankbook.


    She had been saving An ZhiAng''s money separately, from just five or six yuan per month when he first joined the army, to seventy or eighty yuan per month now that he was in the special forces, umting over 4,600 yuan over the years.


    But when she tried to give it to An ZhiAng, he stubbornly refused, leaving Zhi Xia at aplete loss.


    She couldn''t just give it to Su Ying, for fear that she would overthink.


    After thinking it over, she could only keep the money for now. Anyway, Fourth Brother was getting married, she could make it up to him somewhere else.


    Su Ying was also knowledgeable about valuables. Zhi Xia nned to give her a set of pearl jewelry as a wedding present for her and Fourth Brother.


    She still had a lot of top-grade pearls left in her space, all plump and round, and quiterge too. As for those less spherical or wed ones, she had made them into pearl powder to apply on her face.


    Come to think of it, it was quite an extravagant thing to do.


    Zhi Xia selected them all over again, picking out two packs of various sizes, and gave them to a major pearling family to help find a designer to process them.

 Chapter 318: The Aftermath of the Flood

    <h4>Chapter 318</h4>


    Late at night, husband and wife met in the space.


    Pei Jing asked Zhi Xia, "What''s going on with your fourth brother? He''s been home for a month and I haven''t heard him talk about getting married. The day before yesterday he told me his injury was better and he wanted to return to the team. But yesterday he said he wanted to take a few more days off to get married?"


    Because the call was rushed, and with so many other things going on recently, she hadn''t exined it very clearly.


    Thinking about fourth brother''s cluelessness when it came to rtionships, Zhi Xia couldn''t helpughing out loud.


    After Pei Jing heard the whole story from Zhi Xia, he was also at a loss for words about An ZhiAng''s reaction.


    Grandma waspletely right, this was purely self-inflicted misery.


    When others were pursuing him he wasn''t happy. He just had to take the initiative to chase her before she became fragrant.


    "Right, I haven''t asked about you yet. The floods were over a month ago, why are you still so busy? From what Grandpa and Grandma said, fourth brother''s wedding is set for the next few days. Will you be able to make it back?"


    When it came to this, Zhi Xia wanted toin. She had originally been transferred back here because it was close and convenient to go home.


    But when the special forces team was first formed, he was busy those first few months, going home less than once a month, and always in a rush when he did.


    Now it had been several years, and he still rarely came home.


    "I''m sorry." Pei Jing also knew he was too busy and seldom had time to apany her and the children.


    Other than those two words, he didn''t seem to be able to find a way to make up for her. The only thing he could do was exin to her why he couldn''t go home. "Zhi Xia, there are many towns around that were hit by the disaster. The reservoirs and sluice gates were washed away. One vige close by waspletely washed away, and the crops were also knocked over and copsed by the heavy rain. Even worse, some were drowned directly by the rainwater. It looks like harvest season but there''s no harvest at all. Recently, the troops have been helping the disaster areas harvest crops and rebuild. We''ll probably be even busier repairing dams."


    Zhi Xia had also heard about this from the news. ording to Hu Zhou, grain prices on the ck market had recently skyrocketed and were very difficult to buy.


    Because most of the newly harvested grain this year had gone bad, sprouted, or had other problems. Very little waspletely fine.


    The only constion was that the affected areas were only the rural areas around Jin City, so grain could still be obtained from other regions.


    Soon after the rain, she had Hu Zhou slow down the fabric business and gradually start selling off grain instead. But she didn''t dare go too far, and the prices were only slightly higher than the state stores.


    Any lower, and people might be suspicious about the source of her grain.


    But as she said, grain was a consumable item. She had already done her best to get as much grain as possible into the market while still protecting herself. But for Jin City''s huge poption, it was just a drop in the bucket.


    Seeing the worried look on Pei Jing''s face, Zhi Xia asked him, "Do you need my help? I can''t do much with other things, but I can provide grain and supplies. Let me know."


    Pei Jing''s understanding of Zhi Xia''s space was limited to the residence that came with the trading period, and the rooms she had expanded using star coins. He also knew she had a farmable garden, but didn''t know exactly how big it was or how much could be grown there.


    Once you stepped outside this residence, time sped up over fourfold. Even Zhi Xia, the owner of this space, didn''t dare try it, let alone him and the kids who were just tagging along.


    Hearing her so confident, Pei Jing asked her, "How much grain can you provide? And the government''s prices won''t be too high, possibly even lower than the state stores."


    After all, it was Zhi Xia''s stuff. As her husband, Pei Jing couldn''t just take it by force. So some things had to be made clear in advance.


    "Money isn''t a problem. It was all grown by me anyway, just the cost of seeds. As for the amount, you can tell me directly how much and what types you need. I can also provide some daily necessities, but I have one condition - you can''t expose me."


    Pei Jing smiled and pulled her into his arms. "I don''t need you to say that. Protecting you and the kids is my first priority."


    He could give his all for the country and people, but he wouldn''t ask the same of his wife and children.


    As long as they didn''t break thew, being ordinary people was good enough.


    Moreover, the world wasn''t only full of good people. Only by interacting at certain levels did one know theplexity of the world. He fully agreed with Zhi Xia''s desire to not expose herself.


    The two smiled at each other, with Zhi Xia responding to him as well.


    She felt that sometimes caring too much about love was meaningless. Just leaning on each other like now, trusting each other, was already very satisfying.


    This time Pei Jing didn''t rush to leave the space. He took paper and pen and started calcting what supplies were needed right in front of her.


    Grain was definitely the priority, since it was an assignment from above for them to purchase supplies.


    Jin City used a mix of rice and noodles. Most of the flour came from high yielding corn and sweet potatoes. For this purchase, those two were the top choices.


    He tentatively opened his mouth. "100,000 catties each of corn flour and sweet potato flour? Do you have that much? And cotton..."


    He felt like he was asking for a lot, because he didn''t know how long Zhi Xia''s space had existed. But from when he first found out, it had been five or six years. Over those years she should have umted quite a bit of grain.


    And she was clever. If she didn''t have much grain, she wouldn''t have boldly told him to say how much he needed first.


    Of course, for all of Jin City, this amount of supplies was definitely insufficient.


    But this was just the amount the government was purchasing. More free supplies would still be obtained from other regions.


    If not for Zhi Xia today, next they would have sent people north to the major grain producing provinces and state farms to collect grain.


    Zhi Xia didn''t even hesitate. "No problem, I can take that out."


    "That''s great." Pei Jing let out a sigh of relief.


    This year, even with money, buying grain wasn''t easy.


    The original n was to send people north to negotiate. But since Zhi Xia had it here, he nned to go personally to keep up appearances and buy a little to cover things up.


    After all, he couldn''t conjure it out of thin air.


    An ZhiAng''s wedding was in five days. Pei Jing came back a day early.


    At the same time, the rush order of pearl jewelry that Zhi Xia had the aquaculture magnate help process was alsopleted.


    The whole set had three styles - ne, earrings, and bracelet. The ne was made by stringing and weaving holes, veryplex and gorgeous. The bracelet and earrings had added jade and stones for a fresher, prettier look. There was also a matching pearl hairpin.


    The remaining pearls were designed into several individual pieces of jewelry. Just the design was beautiful. Added to the round, full pearls produced in the space, the finished jewelry was irresistible.


    Zhi Xia nicely packaged the set for Su Ying in a high quality sandalwood box, and selected a set suitable for Grandma before going next door.


    "You''re just in time. Hurry up and help paste these happy characters. The wedding is tomorrow, we have to finish all this today." Grandma looked somewhat anxious. She was also getting older, and her hands had started shaking badly.

 Chapter 319: Ever Been Jealous

    <h4>Chapter 319</h4>


    Zhi Xia quickly ced the things in her hands on the table and went forward to take the items from her. She helped to stick the character for "Happiness" on the wall.


    "This person bes useless as they get older, unable to do any work properly." When Zhi Xia first returned a few years ago, she could even sew clothes with a needle, but now she couldn''t even stick a simple character properly and seemed lost.


    "Grandma is not old, she''s still young!" Zhi Xia assisted the elderlydy to sit at the table and said, "Grandma, don''t worry about it. Just tell me where you want it to be ced. I will take care of itter. Look, do you like this?"


    Zhi Xia took out a long string of pearl nes from the box. It could be worn around the neck in two loops, with one loop longer than the other, giving a particrly luxurious appearance.


    The pearls of this set of jewelry owned by the olddy were rtivelyrge, unlike others with alternating sizes, and they were not overly shy.


    "Oh, I haven''t seen pearls of such good quality in many years. Where did you get them? It must have taken a lot of effort," the olddy said affectionately as she touched them.


    "It was just a stroke of luck. It didn''t take much effort. I also prepared a set for Fourth Sister-inw," Zhi Xia said as she opened the box. "By the way, where is Fourth Brother? I can ask him to deliver it to Fourth Sister-inw."


    "That boy, he''s clueless most of the time, but once he gets it, it''s amazing. Now he practically sticks to the Su family," the olddyined with a smile. "He''s like a freeloader."


    "Grandma, you''re exaggerating," Zhi Xia quickly intervened. "Fourth Brother won''t stay at home for long. Of course, he wants to spend time with Fourth Sister-inw while he can. Isn''t that what you''ve been hoping for?"


    "You always take his side," the olddy said. "This set of pearls is really good. The craftsmanship suits young people like you. By the way, do you have any for yourself?"


    "Yes, I have one too. I also prepared a bracelet for Wanqing."


    "That''s good," the olddy finally felt relieved.


    After helping to arrange things at home, Zhi Xia returned to her own house.


    Pei Jingming would leave the next day after attending the wedding. During this time, Zhi Xia still had to arrange the food for him.


    He had already found a ce to store the food, arge warehouse outside the city. The warehouse was already quite full despite its size, with 100,000 catties of corn flour and 100,000 catties of sweet potato powder.


    "The weather isn''t too cold yet, and there''s no rush for the cotton. You said you were selling the food, right? You can temporarily switch to selling cotton. Since the disaster in Jincheng, many things have been circting in the ck market. As long as you don''t attract too much attention, no one will bother you," Pei Jingming suggested.


    "Okay, I''ll follow your advice," Zhi Xia thought that she wasn''t profiting from a national disaster. After all, apart from her, no one could keep the prices so low.


    The corn flour and sweet potato powder were already processed to meet the standards of this era. The corn flour wasn''t ground too finely and still contained some husks.


    The corn flour was priced at 18 cents per catty, while the sweet potato powder was priced at 55 cents. The total value was 73,000 yuan, which was more than what Zhi Xia and Hu Zhou had earned together during this period. Moreover, the quantity she provided was definitely more than expected.


    Although the goods were delivered, it would take some time before the payment could be settled.


    In reality, they hadn''t even set off for the purchase yet. Instead, they needed to symbolically bring back some items as a cover-up before the funds could be allocated.


    Originally, this matter wasn''t something that An ZhiAng needed to handle. However, everyone knew that the situation was difficult and urgent. There was hardly anyone willing to take on the thankless task. At this moment, he was willing to step forward, and many people sought his help.


    By the time Zhi Xia returned, An ZhiAng had alreadye back as well.


    Tomorrow was the wedding day, and the elderlydy wanted him to return at night. He couldn''t possibly continue staying at the Su family''s residence.


    An ZhiAng was a little displeased, but he still had to obey.


    At the doorway, he called out loudly, "Zhi Xia,e out first."


    Zhi Xia thought he had something important to discuss, but when she came out, she heard him rambling while holding the wooden box she had given him. "You little rascal, are you deliberately trying to create distance between us? I''m just giving you some pocket money, yet you insist on returning it to me. Are you still treating me as your brother? The things Granny gave you, you can keep them for yourself. Your sister-inw doesn''tck these things, and she''s not a petty person. I''ve already talked to her about the money, and she has no objections. If she were that petty, I wouldn''t want her. Don''t worry about it anymore, understand?"


    "Brother, what you''re saying is not right." Since he cared for her so much, Zhi Xia naturally considered his feelings as well. "You and your sister-inw are family. From now on, no matter what happens in life, you should discuss and decide together. You can''t just act on your own like before. I hope my brother will be responsible, taking care of your family and loving your wife. You should cherish your sister-inw more. In the future, your money won''t be yours alone, but both of yours. So, you can''t make decisions independently."


    Emotions between people should be mutual. They were going to be lifelongpanions, and they needed to understand and take care of each other. That was the way to make their rtionshipst.


    Zhi Xia didn''t want her beloved brother to have an unhappy marriage in the future, especially if the reason was that he loved her too much and neglected his own family. She didn''t want to be a disliked sister-inw.


    Because she loved her brother too, she would try her best to get along well with her sister-inw for the sake of both of them.


    "My little sister has truly grown up. You''re stronger than your brother." An ZhiAng felt gratified yet pained at the same time.


    He wished she could be a bit more willful like Pei Shuangshuang, instead of always being so sensible. It made him ache inside.


    At the Su family''s residence, Su Lao just took his medicine and went to sleep.


    Since he lived on the ground floor, An ZhiAng was afraid of making too much noise and waking him up. He had to crouch and make his way upstairs.


    He finally rxed when he reached the upper floor.


    Su Ying was very punctual with her time. It was still early, and she was in the study, holding pen and paper, designing clothes.


    Some people were born with talent. Whenever she had inspiration, she could quickly sketch it on paper, then make modifications until it turned into several different designs.


    "Tomorrow is the wedding day. Why did youe again?" Su Ying''s chilly voice softened when she realized it was An ZhiAng. "You should go back to your family, or else my parents will me me forcking proper etiquette."


    ording to tradition, they were not supposed to live together before the wedding, but he insisted on sticking to her. Su Ying couldn''t do anything about it.


    However, he couldn''t stay today under any circumstances.


    An ZhiAng ced a box in front of her. "I came specifically to give you something. Take a look and see if you like it."


    "What is it?" Su Ying eagerly opened the box, and her eyes instantly lit up. "Such beautiful pearls! Did you specially give them to me?"


    "They weren''t given by me, they were given by my younger sister as a wedding gift for us." Although he didn''t prepare them himself, An ZhiAng still felt proud and whispered in Su Ying''s ear, "Let me tell you a secret, neither the eldest sister-inw nor the second sister-inw received them. Our sister, ZhiXia, likes me the most among all her brothers, and no other sister-inw canpare to you, the fourth sister-inw."


    Su Ying understood ZhiXia''s intentions. She probably did it because An ZhiAng refused the money that was supposed to be given, fearing it would make her feel ufortable. So she found a way to make it up elsewhere.


    It had to be said that women understood women the best.


    "It''s good that our younger sister has this intention. As brother and sister-inw, we can''t let her suffer losses. This set of pearls looks like a precious item. I can''t just take advantage of it for nothing. I also have some nice things in my possession. I''ll find some time to see if there''s something suitable for her."


    Su Ying was never a shallow person. She inherited the entire Su family, which was not as wealthy as the An family, but the An family was currently divided into four shares, whereas the Su family only had her.


    Therefore, Su Ying was quite confident.


    "You don''t have to make too much effort. We''ll ept our younger sister''s kind gesture." An ZhiAng pulled her into his arms, feeling uneasy about having to go back to an empty roomter. "Darling, I''m really lucky. I have such a good wife like you, and such a good younger sister. ZhiXia just told me that I must cherish and love you, be a good husband, and a good father..."


    Su Ying blushed. "If she can say such things, it means she genuinely cares about you, An ZhiAng. Do you know that I''m jealous of you now?"


    "You don''t need to be jealous of me. Look, you married me, so my younger sister is your younger sister too. Now that you''ve married such a good man like me and have such a good younger sister, don''t you feel like you''ve hit the jackpot?"


    "Yes, yes, yes. I must have umted great virtue in my previous life to be able to meet a wonderful man like you in this lifetime, and to have such a good younger sister." Su Ying sighed helplessly. "I''ve never seen anyone praise themselves like you do without feeling embarrassed."


    If we talk about whether Su Ying was jealous of ZhiXia, she definitely was to some extent.


    After all, ZhiXia''s name came up more often in An ZhiAng''s conversations than anyone else''s during the past few days.


    But after today, when she could say words that made An ZhiAng promise to truly love her, Su Ying no longer felt jealous.


    She was actually quite grateful.


    Fortunately, her man had such a wonderful sister, who would also be her sister in the future.


    In the long years toe, having someone who sincerely cares for you is the greatest blessing in life.

 Chapter 320: Get Married

    <h4>Chapter 320</h4>


    Firecrackers popped and banged as children shouted excitedly that the bride had arrived. Su Ying, dressed all in red, was led inside by An ZhiAng.


    The couple stood together, the groom tall and stately, the bride gentle and beautiful, like figures in a painting.


    The old grandmother nudged ZhiXia and said, "Where''s Little Six? Have him go to the bridal chamber and have Su Ying hold onto him so she doesn''t let go. With this rowdy bunch of An ZhiAng''s fox friends and dog pals, who knows what nonsense they''ll get up toter. We can''t have anything happen."


    It wasmonly said that the first three days of marriage were unpredictable. Making a ruckus at a wedding was an age-old custom.


    With all of An ZhiAng''s friends, they''d originally nned just a small affair, but his friends alone already filled three tables.


    Nowadays it wasn''t customary for the whole family to move over for the banquet unless they were the closest of rtives, so each family only sent a representative.


    But his friends who came were all grown men, and not a few were part of the same crew Liu Jun used to lead, a ferocious bunch when they stirred up trouble.


    ZhiXia hurried off to find Little Six but couldn''t find him anywhere after looking all over, not knowing where he''d run off to.


    Just then, Hu Zhou pulled up with his daughter and wasn''t joining in the hubbub, so ZhiXia went to ask him, "Hu Zhou, can you lend me your daughter for a bit to let my sister-inw hold her?"


    They were all married folk and Hu Zhou immediately understood what she meant. He told his daughter it was fine but didn''t forget to jest, "Don''t forget to have your fourth brother give my girl a nice fat red envelope for doing him this favor. I can''t ask for something like this myself."


    "You''ll have to speak to him about that yourself. I can''t make that request," ZhiXiaughed in response.


    ZhiXia took YueYa to the bridal chamber entrance and could already hear the noisy chaos inside.


    When she entered, she realized the grandmother''s concerns were somewhat excessive.


    Su Ying sat atop the big red bed while a bunch of men were sprawled on the floor below, groaning "Ow ow ow" andining, "An ZhiAng, no one gets married without some hazing, don''t you think you''re taking this too far? My poor old back, ow..."


    An ZhiAng stood at the foot of the bed, eyes narrowed contemptuously. "It''s not that I''m not allowing you all to haze me, but if you don''t have the ability, don''t go around whooping and hollering acting all big."


    Ever since it started, this bastard had been the most raucous, really forgetting himself after being given some leeway these past few years.


    An ZhiAng wouldn''t interfere with others, but could he allow just anyone to freely fawn over and grope his wife?


    Liu Jun yed peacemaker, saying "The kid hasn''t been cking these past few years and we''re no match for him now. Let''s go, go on out and we''ll have it out over wine!"


    Some were still unhappy but didn''t dare oppose An ZhiAng''s superior martial strength.


    After the crowd dispersed, ZhiXia brought in YueYa and said, "Grandma was worried earlier and wanted me to bring a child for you to hold, but now it seems her concerns were excessive."


    Su Ying did look worriedly outside and said, "Your fourth brother will have to drink a lot today. You should find a couple people to help deflect drinks from him."


    "Sister-inw, don''t worry about that. Liu Jun will look out for him, and Hu Zhou is also there..."


    Pei Jing couldn''t drink since he was leaving in the afternoon and had to drive.


    Su Ying could only smile resignedly, useless to worry.


    The jewelry she wore today was a gift from ZhiXia, the lustrous pearls especially dazzling against her red outfit, making herplexion even fairer.


    "ZhiXia, thank you again. I really like this pearl set you gave me." So she had chosen to wear it today, which matched her bridal costume perfectly.


    "I''m d you like it sister-inw, I was worried you might not." ZhiXia shook her own wrist which had a simpler set, more suited for everyday wear.


    Su Ying''s set was more borate, better for important asions.


    An ZhiAng''s face was flushed red from drinking, still the unruly one making the biggest fuss earlier in the room.


    To help An ZhiAng, Liu Jun drank until his own legs went soft while Hu Zhou''s face was also bright red.


    ZhiXia frowned and took the chance to ask Hu Zhou, "Hu Zhou, who''s that guy? Did my fourth brother offend him somehow?"


    Hu Zhou burped from the alcohol and fuzzily responded, "Offend him? He was a little brother under An ZhiAng and Liu Jun back then, about the same status as me, nothing too capable. But he got lucky in recent years, saved some factory boss''s daughter who identally fell in the water when he was out with Liu Jun. Became the son-inw and got an inted ego. But don''t worry, you can tell he''s not too bright. He''s just taking advantage of today being a good day and An ZhiAng can''t easily deal with him. He''ll get what he deserves afterwards."


    Thinking he was hot stuff for marrying a good daughter-inw, also forgetting what status An ZhiAng and Liu Jun have now. One''s in the military, what was that rank he heard aboutst time, seemed pretty high.


    Liu Jun has also steadily risen in the police bureau these years, and his wife is the police chief''s niece, so his future looks bright.


    As for Hu Zhou, he''s notcking for money now either.


    And they don''t put on airs, yet this meal ticket son-inw gets all cocky.


    Disgraceful!


    "Can''t go on, Sis An. I''ve got to go throw up again...blegh..."


    ZhiXia sighed and went to tend to him.


    When Hu Zhou returned, she hurriedly gave him three hangover cure pills, telling him to take one himself and find a chance to give An ZhiAng and Liu Jun one each.


    Still dizzy, Hu Zhou didn''t listen clearly and just popped one in his mouth, wondering what it was.


    When he got to the wine table, he suddenly felt the same clear-headed state as before drinking.


    Instantly invigorated, he felt he could easily drink another two pounds worth.


    "An ZhiAng, Liu Jun,ee, eat a candy first then drink up...we''ve got to drink this punk under the table today and put him in his ce for his arrogance..." Hu Zhou stuffed the pills into each of their mouths.


    Though the taste as it entered was quite sweet, it definitely wasn''t candy.


    Luckily they''d both drank a lot already so by the time they reacted, it had already gone down.


    They exchanged puzzled nces, but soon the drug took effect.


    As old buddies, their teamwork was seamless. They clinked cups, determined not to let any of those who had toasted them aggressively earlier get away today.


    The other guests in the yard had already left with only their table remaining.


    Zhou Nan worriedly said to An JingZhi, "The kids are drinking nonstop, go get them under control!"


    An JingZhi looked at An ZhiAng''s state and retorted, "And you can keep them under control?"


    Zhou Nan was rendered speechless, why else would she be telling him to do it if she could control them herself?


    In the afternoon, the one who had been most rowdy was carried out.


    Zhou Nan angrily smacked An ZhiAng''s back, fuming at him, "Were you born without a sense for drinking? Do you remember what day it is today? Getting someone in that state, what if something happens to him?"


    "How could anything happen, didn''t we send him home? And you didn''t see him provoking us first, we were just teaching him a lesson!" An ZhiAng defended.


    "Always with your twisted logic. Even if nothing happens to him, what about yourself? Don''t you know to take better care of your health, do you think you''re still a child?"


    "Mom, it''s my wedding day, can you cut me some ck?"


    "Now you want face!" Zhou Nan didn''t continue scolding him but turned to greet Liu Jun and Hu Zhou instead, smoothly transitioning her demeanor as appropriate.

 Chapter 321: Ahead of The Times

    <h4>Chapter 321</h4>


    Because Pei Jing was in a hurry to leave, Zhi Xia let Sister Zhang stay and help clean up, while she went home first.


    At the door, Zhi Xia was stopped by An ZhiAng, "Little sister, where did you get that sobering medicine? Do you have a lot left?"


    Zhi Xia instantly understood his intention, "There''s still quite a bit left, do you need some?"


    This medicine was specially made by the genius doctor sister, not only for sobering up but also for nourishing the stomach, which happens to help alleviate the burden on the body from drinking too much.


    "It''s not for me, I can''t drink much in the army either. Liu Jun asked me to help him ask," This is good stuff, and he had already experienced the benefits himself.


    After returning home, Zhi Xia found that Pei JianGuo and Pei Shuangshuang were also there.


    Ever since Wang Yue''s divorce, Pei Shuangshuang had rarelye to this side. Zhi Xia didn''t expect her toe for her fourth brother''s wedding too.


    Pei Xiang had already gotten married two years ago. Although it wasn''t a shotgun wedding, her husband''s family didn''t have many houses, so the couple lived with Pei Yong. At that time it made her sister-inw very happy.


    But Pei Shuangshuang was already 26, yet Zhi Xia hadn''t heard anything about her dating.


    But then again, they weren''t close, so even if Shuangshuang was dating, she herself might not know.


    She still had to maintain politeness on the surface. Zhi Xia greeted them, then asked Pei Jing, "Weren''t you going to leave? Have you finished packing?"


    Although she really wanted him to stay a little longer, she was even more unwilling to let him travel at night.


    "Done." Pei Jing stood up and said to Pei JianGuo, "Do you want to go back? I can give you a ride on the way."


    He also knew that Zhi Xia didn''t get along with them, so there was no need to let them stay and cause trouble for her.


    "Don''t hold little uncle up, I rode my bike here. I''ll take Shuangshuang hometer," Pei JianGuo said.


    From beginning to end, Pei Shuangshuang didn''t say a word, always standing slightly behind Pei JianGuo.


    When she thought about it carefully, it was no wonder that the distance grew between Guo Momo and Pei JianGuo.


    Because PingAn was born prematurely and disabled, and Guo Momo herself also lost the ability to have children, Pei JianGuo as a father actually still loved the culprit Pei Shuangshuang. No wonder anyone would have a hard time epting that.


    After the siblings left, Zhi Xia said, "Pei JianGuo is quite respectful to you. Usually when you''re not home, those two don''t evene to the door."


    Pei Jing sighed, "Don''t ridicule me, I just happened to run into them and chatted for a few sentences. By the way, how is PingAn doing? Can he walk now?"


    "He can walk now, but he still can''t speak, only make simple sybles." And this was after taking medicine and showing some improvement. Before, he couldn''t even cry out, at least now he could make sounds.


    After the couple chatted for a while, Pei Jing left after the children came back.


    Two monthster, Zhi Xia finally received the money he sent, a whole half sack, looking quite spectacr.


    In December, snowkes drifted down from the sky, and the radio crackled and couldn''t pick up any sound.


    Pei ChenYe came in from outside, and brought in the newspaper from the door.


    "What''s all themotion outside about?" This year was an icy winter, and Zhi Xia wrapped herself tightly in clothes against the cold.


    "They seem to be talking about some kind of reform and opening up policy," ChenYe handed the newspaper to Zhi Xia, "Here, take a look, it''s written in the newspaper."


    Although she had expected this, Zhi Xia was still happy to actually hear the news, eyes curving into crescents.


    At the start of school, there were already people openly doing business at the school gates. In just one short month, a street of snacks had taken shape.


    While buying fried dough sticks, Zhi Xia ran into Wu Lei. With him was anky teenage boy, his son Wu Xiaohua, who had a somewhat shy demeanor.


    Wu Lei''s wife had cheated on him and even used his money to support her lover. In his anger he had broken the man''s legs, and as a result went to jail for several years.


    At the time, worried that there would be no one to take care of his son after he went to jail, she didn''t expose her affair. She thought his wife would at least be able to take care of their child, but unexpectedly, after getting out of jail he learned that Zhang Lin had run away long ago.


    At that time Wu Xiaohua was fortunately helped by Zhi Xia''s family, who let him work at an orphanage and grow up safely.


    After Wu Lei found Wu Xiaohua, they were ostracized because of his time in jail. Right when news of the reform and opening up policy came, he sold his house cheaply.


    Having heard Zhi Xia mention Jincheng before, and with nowhere to go, he brought his son to this city. He then spent money to learn skills from a master for half a month before opening a breakfast ce here.


    He didn''t expect to run into Zhi Xia here so coincidentally, since she was attending university here. He had just opened for business a few days before running into his son''s benefactor.


    Thinking back to when they first met, he was still Director Wu of Lingjiang Food Factory. Thanks to the green bean cake recipe she gave him, it brought him good fortune for a period.


    Now meeting again, she was a college student while he was a reformed convict. Life really does toy with people.


    He med himself for being too impulsive back then, ruining himself and his son.


    Meeting an old friend again, Zhi Xia was also filled with emotion.


    Returning home, Wan Qing was tying Yue Ya''s hair in the yard. Zhi Xia knew Hu Zhou must havee over.


    "Mom, look how pretty I tied it!" Wan Qing''s eyes curved into crescents when she smiled, vaguely resembling Zhi Xia''s looks, but mostly like Pei Jing''s.


    "Beautiful, my daughter is so capable." Zhi Xia praised her, and saw Hu Zhou when she went inside.


    Zhi Xia poured herself a ss of water and sat across from him, "Just happened I have something I want to discuss with you."


    Hu Zhou had been sitting with his legs crossed, and hurried to sit properly when he saw here back, "Sis An, what is it?"


    "Making money." Zhi Xia put the ss on the table and asked him, "After the news of reform and opening up, you saw the changes happening on every street. Do you have any other ideas?"


    Hu Zhou thought about it seriously, then tentatively asked with knitted brows, "Does Sis An mean opening a shop?"


    Although it was also a good way to make money, he felt that for now it wouldn''t make more than profiteering from grain.


    Unfortunately Sis An always kept grain prices very low. If the prices could be higher, just considering the second half ofst year, the money they earned would certainly have been several times more than now.


    Moreover, she required that the grain that left her hands could not be resold at high prices, offending quite a few people because of it.


    It wasn''t unreasonable for Hu Zhou to think this way, since many ck marketeers made money like that.


    Later it was the government''s relief grain that improved the situation somewhat.


    "Not opening a shop, opening a factory," Zhi Xia said.


    Hu Zhou''s spirit lifted, then hesitantly said, "I''m afraid that won''t work. Opening a small shop they probably won''t interfere with, but opening a factory would bepeting with the state, right?"


    After all, for now all factories were state-owned enterprises. They hadn''t heard of private factories being approved.


    "Of course it can''t be opened in Jincheng." Zhi Xia clearly knew the direction of the future, and had long made ns in preparation for this moment.


    Next, the country would establish four special economic zones to initially implement the open policy to attract foreign businesses.


    This was a great opportunity. To make money, they would have to be at the forefront of the times.

 Chapter 322: Be self-conscious, so as not to take up the seat.

    <h4>Chapter 322</h4>


    Knowing Xia''s shoring was not having time. School and children were her shackles.


    But Hu Zhou had time, and for now, this person could be trusted.


    But he also had ws. He had no experience in running a factory or management.


    This made Knowing Xia inevitably think of the Wu Lei father and son she met today. Although Wu Lei had been imprisoned for assault, there were reasons for it, and it was not entirely his fault.


    Besides, he had been the supervisor of a food factory before, and was involved in the founding and management of the food factory. He was also slick enough to make up for Hu Zhou''s shorings.


    She just didn''t know if after so many years, he still had the ambition to achieve great things like before.


    Knowing Xia chatted with Hu Zhou for a long time before Zhang''s wife called them for dinner, only to find that so much time had passed.


    Hu Zhou smiled awkwardly, "We still need to discuss this matter in the long run. You guys go eat first, let''s talk about it another day."


    Since Pei Jing was not home, Knowing Xia couldn''t ask him to stay for dinner either.


    The next morning, Knowing Xia stopped at Wu Lei''s stall entrance, "Xiaohua, where is your dad?"


    Wu Xiaohua was weak and shy. Neither his appearance nor personality resembled Wu Lei. His looks inherited from his mother were quite handsome, but his personality was neither as slick as Wu Lei''s nor as sharp as Zhang Lin''s.


    Of course, his upbringing was also a factor that led to who he was today.


    After all, Wu Xiaohua was quite sunny and cheerful when he was little.


    "My dad went to get noodles, he should be back soon. Sis An, do you want to buy youtiao?"


    "Get me two." Actually Knowing Xia had already eaten breakfast, but since he asked, it would be inappropriate not to buy two.


    After taking the youtiao wrapped in oiled paper, Knowing Xia paid and handed over the ration coupons, then said to Wu Xiaohua, "I have something to discuss with your dad. Tell him I''lle by again at noon when he gets back."


    "Okay, I''ll let him know." Wu Xiaohua responded.


    After entering the campus, she happened to run into Guo Momo, so Knowing Xia gave her the youtiao and told her to give it to PingAn as a snack.


    Freshly fried and still hot, it tasted the best when eaten hot. She couldn''t eat anymore.


    Guo Momo asionally stayed in the dormitory with her child. PingAn could already walk steadily, and Guo Momo was especially grateful to Knowing Xia for this.


    In the ss before noon, an announcement was made that the top three students with the best grades in the monthly exam in half a month would be selected to study abroad sponsored by the government. Students who wished to go could work hard to prepare.


    Knowing Xia definitely couldn''t be interested. Going abroad would take several years, not suitable for a married woman with several children like her.


    So she didn''t pay much attention to it.


    During lunch break, she walked out of the campus and went to see Wu Lei, who could only make youtiao and soy milk. His business was still ok in the morning but not so good at noon.


    When Knowing Xia arrived, he was free.


    "Knowing Xia, Xiaohua said you came to look for me this morning. Do you have something to discuss?" Wu Lei had gotten much thinnerpared to before, and the stubble on his scalp was faintly turning white. He didn''t look as energetic as before either.


    But he still had that constant silly smile, leaving a good impression on people.


    "There is something. Does Wu have time now? Let''s find a ce to chat," Knowing Xia asked him.


    Wu Lei nodded, took off his apron, and told Wu Xiaohua to watch the stall before following Knowing Xia into a noodle restaurant.


    Knowing Xia paid for the food while he felt quite embarrassed.


    She told him about her situation, and Wu Lei''s expression also turned serious as he considered the feasibility of this matter.


    Her husband had be an officer years ago, so his status was clear. He certainly wouldn''t go after Wu Lei.


    As for Wu Lei himself, other than the few thousand yuan from selling his house, he had nothing now. His snack stand could earn some money, but as a grown man, to be honest, he definitely wouldn''t be willing to do this if not as ast resort.


    But to give up the snack stand and start a factory would be too risky. What if it failed? Wouldn''t he ruin his own backup n as well?


    Wu Lei swallowed and pondered repeatedly, conflicted.


    Knowing Xia waited patiently without rushing him. When it was almost time, she got up and said, "Wu, you can consider this matter carefully. Just give me an answer within a week. I have to get back for ss now."


    Wu Lei also stood up. "Knowing Xia, may I ask what kind of factory you n to start? And how much capital do you n to invest?"


    Knowing Xia took out a box from her bag and handed it to Wu Lei. "Wu, take a look at this first. It''s a cream made purely from Chinese herbs. After the opening up, the country strongly encourages export trade. Women''s money is the easiest to earn in this world. Foreign women certainly don''tck money, so I n to take advantage of this. No one other than me has used this product yet. I also have several other ideas. Wu can try it when you get home, then give me your decision. As for capital investment, to be honest, neither of us really understands the environment and policies over there yet, so we''ll need to do research first before reaching a conclusion. But you can rest assured about money. I won''t recklessly dive in without proper nning."


    Knowing Xia was very confident. After all, the efficacy could be seen after trying it. No one could resist the allure of being able to be fairer and more beautiful.


    As for money, she still had the An Family backing her up, which Wu Lei could easily find out if he asked around.


    Of course, she was just using their name. She wouldn''t actually use the An Family''s money. She had about 150,000 yuan saved up over the past year. Hu Zhou could contribute 50,000 yuan, totaling 200,000 yuan.


    If it still wasn''t enough, she still had gold, but she didn''t want to use the gold unless absolutely necessary.


    "Alright, I''ll consider it as soon as possible." Actually, Wu Lei already knew he didn''t need to consider it at all. By just sending someone out, he could get 5% of the shares, which was like a pie falling from the sky for Wu Lei.


    But all of this was premised on the product being good enough.


    From Knowing Xia''s ambition to even target the international market, anyone could tell the domestic market would be huge too.


    Everyone could see the trend since the beginning of the year. Those with brains and time were thinking of small businesses, even selling seeds and snacks earned more money than working for the iron rice bowl.


    Of course, no matter how much small businesses and vendors earned, it was not on the same level as an iron rice bowl.


    Knowing Xia didn''t go to the dormitory at noon. Guo Momo came to find her during the break, relieved to see she was fine.


    "Oh yes, did they mention the studying abroad thing in your ss?"


    Knowing Xia nodded. "Yes, many people are quite interested. The atmosphere in ss was much better today. What, do you want to go too?"


    "I..." Guo Momo smiled without answering, but asked back, "So does auntie want to go?"


    "Why would I go? There''s so much going on at home. Your uncle onlyes back for two days in a blue moon. What would the kids do if I left for years?" Knowing Xia shook her head. "I definitely don''t stand a chance. During the exam, I''ll consciously avoid performing too well, in case I take up a slot I don''t even want."

 Chapter 323: Is it a Means of Malicious Competition

    <h4>Chapter 323</h4>


    "I do want to go, but you also know PingAn''s situation. This child has been despised since he was born. If I leave again, he will have no chance to survive." Guo Momo said with red eyes. It was unclear whether she felt heartbroken for the child or for herself.


    "It''s not that exaggerated." Zhi Xia could onlyfort her, "With such a good mother like you who loves and cares for him so much, PingAn is better off than having many rtives."


    Guo Momo wiped the corners of her eyes and forced a smile, "You''re right. And there''s my young auntie, such a good stepmother to him, PingAn is a lucky child."


    Zhi Xia was also amused by her.


    After trying the cream for a few days, Wu Lei''s originally roughplexion visibly became more delicate, which greatly surprised him.


    Ultimately, he still decided to temporarily give up his stable life for now and leave the snack stand to Wu Xiaohua to manage first.


    Zhi Xia understood what he meant. He and Hu Zhou were different after all. It would be far away and the emperor was far away. If he took the money and ran away, Zhi Xia really couldn''t do anything to him.


    And leaving Wu Xiaohua behind was to leave a way out for himself, which also reassured Zhi Xia. He only had this one son, he couldn''t possibly abandon his son for money.


    This was Wu Lei''s sensible approach to things. He thought of it himself without needing others to suggest it.


    Although Hu Zhou had money, he did not remarry. There were many proposals for him, but he was afraid it would hurt his daughter, so he declined them all.


    But now he had to go to such a distant ce, his daughter''s whereabouts became a big problem, and he didn''t have any rtives to help take care of her.


    After thinking it over, he could only ask Zhi Xia for help.


    Fortunately, Yue Ya was three years old already. She didn''t need to be led around or carried. She yed with Little Sixth and nearby children during the day, and slept with Zhi Xia at night.


    Wanqing also liked this little sister and was especially enthusiastic about dressing her up beautifully. She even asked Zhi Xia to make her a few nice princess dresses, insisting on dressing her up like a doll and showing her off as her own sister when they went out.


    Fortunately, Yue Ya was a girl who liked beautiful things and enjoyed being dressed up. She was well-behaved and made Zhi Xia''s heart melt.


    As a mother of a daughter, her own daughter''s temperament was not girly at all. She was like a wild monkey every day, even crazier than her brother.


    The triplets, including Little Sixth, were all obediently managed by her. Little Fourth had said behind her back that big sister was a tigress. When she overheard it, he begged her not to tell big sister.


    Zhi Xia felt both happy and worried - happy that she could manage her brothers so Zhi Xia didn''t need to worry, worried that her daughter didn''t act like a girl.


    Seeing that Yue Ya had no issues adapting after two days, Hu Zhou finally set off with Wu Lei.


    On the second day after arriving in Shenzhen, Hu Zhou ran next door to report to Zhi Xia that they had arrived safely, and talked with little Yue Ya for a long time before reluctantly hanging up.


    The highly anticipated monthly exam that everyone had been looking forward to came and went in half a month.


    Zhi Xia had always treated every exam seriously. Her grades weren''t the best but she had always been at the top.


    Only this time, she was very casual.


    "Zhi Xia, have you seen the school newspaper? The grades are out and the top three spots have been decided." Wang Li said excitedly but also a little disappointed because she didn''t perform well and there was no spot for her in the top three.


    "I haven''t looked yet. It doesn''t matter anyway, I won''t be on there." Zhi Xia didn''t seem very enthusiastic.


    "But Guo Momo is on there! That niece-inw of yours who watches kids, I really didn''t expect that she''s ranked second in the whole school." Of course, her grades had always been very good too, she had always ranked in the top few. So Wang Li didn''t feel surprised that she did so well this time.


    Wang Li had just finished speaking when Zhi Xia was stunned.


    "You said Guo Momo is on there? Really?"


    "Of course it''s true, why would I lie to you? She really kept it hidden!"


    Before Wang Li could finish, Zhi Xia had already run out.


    On the school newspaper board, Zhi Xia squeezed in and indeed saw Guo Momo''s name.


    She didn''t know what to think for a moment.


    She had witnessed Guo Momo''s difficult years and didn''t necessarily feel that she should abandon her future for her family and child.


    But half a month ago, she had told Zhi Xia that she had no ns to study abroad.


    Let it go, she didn''t have the obligation to exin everything clearly to Zhi Xia, that''s what Zhi Xia thought.


    Not long after she returned to the ssroom, someone came to find her, "Zhi Xia, Guo Momo got into a fight with a ssmate. The teacher said you''re her aunt and wants you to go over."


    Zhi Xia got up and sighed, then went out.


    PingAn''s eyes were red. Hey in Guo Momo''s arms, while Guo Momo''s cheek was badly swollen with a clear p mark.


    "Zhi Xia, this is what happened. Liang Cuiping said Guo Momo deliberately poured cold water on her the night before the exam to make her sick and affect her exam performance, causing her to lose the chance to study abroad. But we are still investigating the truth. As Guo Momo''s aunt, we also hope you can advise her. If she really did it intentionally, then there''s suspicion of maliciouspetition, which would be a big responsibility for her character. Of course, if she voluntarily confesses, the school will be lenient."


    But when Zhi Xia looked at Guo Momo, she seemedpletely calm and didn''t show anything.


    "Principal, teachers, I did not deliberately pour cold water on her. I already exined that I was growing nts on the windowsill that night and went over to water them. The child was fussy and identally knocked over the water on the balcony. I didn''t expect Liang Cuiping to be passing under the building at that moment and got drenched. I''m very sorry about that, but I really didn''t intend to harm her intentionally. Also, my grades have always been better than hers, so I didn''t need to take the risk at all."


    "You''re lying! You doing better than me wasst year. In the two exams since the beginning of this school year, I did better than you. And there are no so many coincidences in this world. You clearly did it on purpose!" Liang Cuiping looked at her resentfully, "Principal, I don''t ept this. I request a re-examination, and punishment for Guo Momo."


    The two stuck to their own stories and neither was willing topromise.


    When it was Zhi Xia''s turn to give her opinion, she did notment, "I don''t live on campus and go home every night, so I didn''t witness what happened. I''m not qualified to make casual remarks."


    It was true that Zhi Xia had a good rtionship with Guo Momo these past two years, but the study abroad matter made her realize she didn''t actually understand Guo Momo that well.


    Half a month ago she said she had no ns, and it had been a morning since the spots were posted, Zhi Xia didn''t believe Guo Momo had just found out.


    If it were other things in the past, she would have shared with Zhi Xia first. But not this time.


    Of course, just because she thought this didn''t mean Guo Momo must have used improper means to harm others. She didn''t see it herself so she couldn''t make random usations. That would be a fatal blow to either side if she was wrong.


    Zhi Xia was clearly reluctant to get involved. She made some perfunctory remarks and went back to the ssroom.


    Before leaving, Guo Momo pleaded for Zhi Xia to take PingAn away. She didn''t want the child to see them arguing. Zhi Xia thought about it and took PingAn with her.

 Chapter 324: Make a Decision 02

    <h4>Chapter 324</h4>


    Guo Momo insisted that she did not deliberately ssh water, and several girls in the same dormitory could testify that Guo Momo was watering flowers on the balcony that day, and PingAn identally spilled the water, and even had a conflict with the girls in the dormitory because the balcony was also wet.


    Liang Cuiping could not producepelling evidence, so she could only attribute this incident to coincidence. She asked for a re-examination, but the other two students who got the quota were unwilling.


    Although she was pped, Guo Momo generously forgave Liang Cuiping, but Liang Cuiping was very disgusted.


    Knowing summer took PingAn back to the ssroom, Wang Li asked Knowing summer: "Knowing summer, what''s the situation? What did the teacher ask you to do?"


    "Nothing." Knowing summer shook his head and looked at PingAn standing on the ground.


    His eyes were still red, and his little hands clenched the corner of Knowing Summer''s clothes, looking very uneasy.


    Knowing summer hugged him on hisp andforted him for a few sentences, took out two White Rabbit candies from his pocket and gave them to him.


    It took Guo Momo a long time toe and pick up PingAn. She stood in front of Knowing Summer anxiously, her eyes red as if she was pitiful.


    Just like many times before, it was hard not to feel sorry for her.


    But this time, Knowing Summer was very indifferent, "Since you''re fine, just take PingAn back."


    "Little aunt, will you listen to my exnation?" Guo Momo''s voice was very small, looking at Knowing Summer pleadingly, "Let''s go out and talk, I must exin it clearly to you, okay?"


    "Guo Momo..." Knowing summer looked up and saw her pitiful appearance, and said, "At best, we are just a cousin rtionship living next door. You have a husband and inws, and your affairs should naturally be handled by them. You don''t have to exin anything to me, you know?"


    "I...I know." Her eyes were filled with tears, but she tried her best to keep her head down so that no one could see it, and calmly took PingAn away.


    The little guy had just been coaxed by Knowing Summer for a while, and had eaten candy. At this time, he was in a good mood, lying on Guo Momo''s shoulder and waving at her.


    Wang Li quietly approached and asked her, "Knowing summer, are you okay?"


    She wanted to ask what was going on between Knowing Summer and Guo Momo, but didn''t dare to blurt it out rashly, and it seemed that Knowing Summer didn''t seem to want to say it.


    "It''s okay." Knowing summer turned to face her and smiled silently.


    Guo Momo''s affairs could not hinder her, but after all, they had been together for so long. Suddenly discovering that she didn''t seem to be as good as she thought, it was just hard to ept for a while.


    In a few days, it will be fine.


    In Shenzhen, Wu Lei lived in a dpidated inn, and the two were dressed poorly, as if they hade out of a refugee camp.


    For half a month, there were also many government business promotion projects, but most of them were oriented towards foreign capital. As outsiders with little money and no connections, they didn''t even have ess to the upper ss.


    200,000 yuan was a huge amount in China, butpared to those Hong Kong and foreign businessmen, it was only a drop in the bucket. They didn''tck money.


    They were going to build a factory, not open a small shop. It was unrealistic to rent someone else''s ce ornd. They could only go through the government bidding process.


    Hu Zhou came in from outside, "Wu Ge, I found out..."


    Hu Zhou whispered to Wu Lei, and the two discussed for a long time before making a final decision, but this time, half of the money would have to be taken away. This was just thend, not including theter factory construction and machinery and operation.


    "By the way, Xiao Hu, hurry up and change clothes. Let''s go contact that Hong Kong businessman who sells machinery again. Our funds are limited. We must ensure that after getting thend, we can operate in theter period. Otherwise thend will be taken in vain." Wu Lei hurriedly tidied himself up. When they came, Knowing Summer had prepared two outfits for each of them, at least not to let people look down on them when they were outside.


    The reason for dressing poorly was just to hide themselves. They were unfamiliar with life here and were afraid of being stared at.


    As for the money they brought, it had been deposited in the postal savings bank after arriving here. Under the newly opened policy, there were countless locals and outsiders here. If they identally lost the money, they really couldn''t cry.


    When she returned home in the afternoon, Knowing Summer gave Zhang''s wife her sry for the month, and also gave her half a month''s food money.


    Zhang''s wife had always been very careful in this regard, recording every expense in a notebook in great detail, and insisting that Knowing Summer check the ledger each time she took living expenses.


    She was also afraid. Because it was not pleasant to work for thest employer, she almost ruined her own life, so she was particrly careful in this regard.


    Zhang''s daughter did very well in school, and said she wanted to go to collegest time. She must not jeopardize her child''s future because of some mistakes that should not have been made.


    Moreover, Knowing Summer was very generous to her on weekdays, giving her pastries and snacks from time to time. Sometimes she would deliberately buy more meat for her to take home. Earlier, when she was doing business with that Xiao Hu, she specifically took several pieces of fabric for her.


    In Zhang''s wife''s eyes, leaving the Pei family, she couldn''t find such a good employer.


    And usually, I only need to cook for the children and do some housework. The few children in the family are all grown up, only Xiaoliu has not yet started school, and is also very easy to bring.


    Realizing that she had raised Zhang''s wife''s sryst year, and this year had passed for a long time, she raised it by two more, making Zhang''s wife grin from ear to ear.


    Her husband''s sry at the factory was only 32 yuan more. She was already twenty-five, and the treatment was still good. asionally, the owner went shopping and brought her gifts. The children in the family were also very respectful to her.


    For Knowing Summer, paying some money and things in exchange for Zhang''s wife''s wholehearted care for this family was very cost-effective.


    Especially for the few little ones, Zhang''s wife also helped raise them, and their feelings were extraordinary. This was reflected not only in the children''s admiration for her, but also in Zhang''s wife''s cherishing of the children.


    Xiaoliu ran in from outside, "Mom, my fourth aunt let you go answer the phone."


    "Oh,ing." Knowing Summer hurriedly got up and walked next door.


    Father Su passed away in the 2nd month after Su Ying''s marriage. The old man''s body had long been exhausted, but because he was worried about his granddaughter, he was holding his breath and insisting on it. Knowing that Su Ying had a ce to go, he also passed away in peace.


    After Father Su passed away, Su Ying moved in next door to live, on the one hand, as apanion to her grandparents, and on the other hand, it was very unsafe for her to live alone as a woman, especially with many caring people around her.


    As expected, the call was from Hu Zhou and Wu Lei.


    She had to confirm two things with her. The auction price of the municipal government''snd was roughly between 100,000 and 200,000, but the specifics still depended on the situation at the time. However, this piece ofnd wasrge enough. Wu Lei had surveyed it under Hu Zhou. If they could get thend, they could use half of it to build a factory and sublet the other half.


    Another thing was about the machinery and equipment needed after the factory manager was built, which would also cost tens of thousands of yuan. But this was the lowest price they could get now.


    The biggest investor was Knowing Summer. Taking out so much money at once, the two were actually not very confident, and wanted to ask her opinion.

 Chapter 325: She Refused

    <h4>Chapter 325</h4>


    Zhi Xia also only had memories of the country''s vigorous development after the reform and opening up. But a big event wasposed of many small matters. She didn''t participate personally and only had some theoretical knowledge. Putting it into reality was far from enough.


    Also, ns could not keep up with changes.


    If remote control was so powerful, she wouldn''t have needed Wu Lei to follow her.


    But she knew that Shen City''snd, even if bought at a high price now and left unused for a few years, would still make a huge profit. So she told them to try to acquire thend first.


    As for the machines, there was no hurry. After acquiring thend, they still had to develop and construct it and go through some formalities. Factories couldn''t be opened just because someone wanted to open them. These things were not easy to handle after they were done.


    As for the machines, Zhi Xia didn''t want to buy them from others. Not only could it save a lot of expenses, there was no need at all.


    She nned to go to Shen City after they had done everything, to see the scenery there, and also take care of the machine issue.


    Because there were phone calls every few days, Zhi Xia''s business dealings with Hu Zhou and Wu Lei didn''t escape the notice of the old master.


    The ancestors were also merchants. The two elders were very open-minded and told Zhi Xia to let them know if she encountered any difficulties.


    After hanging up the phone, Su Ying asked her to chat in her room.


    "Zhi Xia, may I ask how are Hu Zhou and the others doing in Shen City? I heard a lot of Hong Kong businessmen came after it opened up, right?"


    Zhi Xia was surprised. "Fourth sister-inw, you are also interested in this?"


    "I don''t understand other businesses. But as you know, I make clothes. Business has been good recently. I also took on several apprentices to train, and n to move the shop out of the alley to let more people see it. I got some good fabrics from the ck market earlier, but I heard the supply channel was cut off recently. If there''s a chance, I really want to go there and take a look."


    Of course Zhi Xia knew about this, because she was the one supplying the fabrics. Things were stopped here temporarily because Hu Zhou was away.


    And the ce where the goods were hidden was Fourth Brother''s ce. Su Ying would find out if she paid a little attention.


    "There are more opportunities over there, but it''s also mixed with crooks and dangers. It wouldn''t be easy for Fourth Sister-inw to go alone."


    Those who could make money with a flick of the hand were only a tiny minority, after all. History nevercked failures, just no one remembered them.


    Although Su Ying seemed mature, she was still a woman. It''s not to say women must be inferior, but they would definitely be looked down upon in social dealings.


    It wasn''t that Zhi Xia had to think this way, but the environment was like this.


    There were also the dangers on the road, and con artists posing as sessful people,yers of difficulties.


    "You think too highly of me. I definitely wouldn''t dare go alone. That''s why I''m asking about Hu Zhou and the others. They can''t possibly stay there and note back. I mean in the future, if there''s a chance to go with them, it would be good to have them look out for me." Su Ying''s experience since childhood made her mature. She wouldn''t try anything she wasn''t sure about.


    She was the only one left in the Su family. She treasured her life more than anyone.


    Zhi Xia thought for a while. "Fourth sister-inw, if you just want to get some fabrics, maybe I can help you."


    Zhi Xia made up an excuse, saying she knew the merchants who supplied fabrics.


    Whether Su Ying believed her or not, she didn''t ask further anyway.


    This was also why Zhi Xia liked dealing with her. No matter what, she would never inquire too much about her affairs.


    Of course, Zhi Xia wouldn''t say much about her matters either.


    "Right, Fourth Sister-inw, you''ll need that storefront on the street to move your shop. I borrowed it from Fourth Brother for a while before. The key is still with me. Let me give it to youter." Zhi Xia suddenly remembered.


    "No need for that. I have my own ce. You borrowed that store from someone, so return the key to them. I don''t want it anyway." Su Ying smiled as she spoke her true thoughts.


    He had told her about this when they first got together. Su Ying knew what he meant. And she didn''t marry him for that one storefront.


    Moreover, Zhi Xia was just borrowing it, not upying it.


    No matter how it was handled in the end, it was a matter between the siblings. She didn''t n on getting involved.


    Zhi Xia thought she was being polite. But when she brought the key, Su Ying still refused.


    Even when she said she still had Third Brother''s store that was empty and wasting away.


    She still refused to ept it, telling her to return the key to whoever she borrowed it from. She didn''t want it anyway.


    Ten dayster, Zhi Xia filled the shop with fabrics for Su Ying to choose from. Hu Zhou and Wu Lei were already in Shen City. She had also initially expanded herwork here. It was time to slowly reveal some things.


    Su Ying loved it. Because they were specially prepared for her, most were rtively suitable for her shop.


    She didn''t want to miss this opportunity. And the prices Zhi Xia got the fabrics for were very affordable. If all these fabrics were made into finished clothes, they would definitely make a huge profit.


    The premise was that they couldn''t all follow the custom order model of her current shop. Her prices were high because the clothes had exquisite embroidery and even pearl and jade buttons on them that all added to the cost.


    What Su Ying did now was purely custom handwork. Therge quantity of fabrics was enough to make ready-to-wear with sewing machines. Naturally the costs could be lowered. Combined with the designs she came up with, they were guaranteed to sell.


    Humans were ambitious. Su Ying was no exception.


    She had long thought about changing the traditional business model, justcked the opportunity. And now was a very good chance.


    But Zhi Xia didn''t agree. She didn''t have the energy to do this stuff right now. She didn''t have to worry about Hu Zhou''s side because of the distance and having the veteran Wu Lei. But if she invested in the clothing shop, she definitely couldn''t be an absentee owner.


    She could provide fabrics and help get sewing machines. And once Su Ying got it going, the demand for fabrics would definitely be hugeter on. She could totally y the role of supplier.


    Plus this was her Fourth Sister-inw. She could just say it was transported back by Hu Zhou and the others from Shen City. She wasn''t afraid of Su Ying investigating her secretly.


    On her way back, she saw Pei JianGuo was also there.


    "Auntie, I have something to discuss with you." He looked wrong, with suppressed emotions in his eyes.

 Chapter 326: I don鈥檛 want to Torture each other Anymore.

    <h4>Chapter 326</h4>


    Guo Momo was going abroad, He figured that was why Pei Jianguo hade over.


    "Come in and talk," Know Xia nced at him and walked into the yard first.


    Pei Jianguo followed after her.


    In the living room, Know Xia poured a ss of water for herself out of courtesy, and also poured one for him, "What did youe to talk to me about?"


    She sat across from him, wearing an apricot pleated dress, her brows and eyes curving with a smiling expression, appearing even more gentle and amiable.


    "You already knew that Guo Momo was going abroad, right?" Pei Jianguo''s tone was full of questioning.


    He had only found out when he went to the school today. The matter had already been decided more than 10 days ago, yet Guo Momo had never mentioned it in front of him.


    He even suspected that if he hadn''t found out by chance, would she have just left without a word, leaving him to foolishly look for her like an idiot before finally learning that she had gone abroad, abandoning him.


    "I didn''t know she had made this decision either. I only learned about it from others after the school posted the openings," Know Xia didn''t want to meddle in their marital affairs anymore. The bit of sympathy she had felt for Guo Momo had alsopletely disappeared with this turn of events.


    Their rtionship wasn''t that close to begin with.


    "What are you pretending for?" Pei Jianguo suddenly angrily stood up, looking at her with an expression like he wanted to devour her, "Auntie Know, I know I offended you before, and you look down on me too, but it''s not like we have a deep hatred for each other, right? It was you who incited Guo Momo to go to university in the first ce. Ever since she started university, she has be more and more confident, and looks down on me too. You two are always together, going to school, eating meals, everything is done together. And you''re telling me you didn''t know she was going abroad? Who are you trying to fool? Know Xia, what great enmity and resentment lies between us that you want to destroy my family? You''ve always doted on PingAn, what will he do with his mother gone?"


    Know Xia looked at Pei Jianguo''s angry expression and said, "Pei Jianguo, Guo Momo going to university wasn''t incited by me, she had always had this idea and ability herself. Otherwise, do you think I have the power to make her listen to everything I say? Also, what you said about us always being together is pure nonsense. She is your wife, and as an elder, do you think I could chase her away whenever shees over? Can we talk reasonably?"


    Zhang''s wife had already gone next door to call for reinforcements when Pei Jianguo started yelling at Know Xia.


    Su Ying had gone to the shop after splitting up with Know Xia. The old master and madam came at just the right time.


    "What''s with all this moring? Don''t you feel ashamed? If there''s something to discuss, then sit down and talk nicely," the old master came in scolding.


    Pei Jianguo had grown up in this neighborhood ever since he was little, and since the two families'' masters had a good rtionship, he was also considered to have been watched over by Master An as he grew up.


    His original bravado instantly deted when the old master came in.


    "Sorry, Master An, I was too impulsive," Pei Jianguo also regained his senses.


    The old master sat down in a nearby chair and advised, "Jianguo, I watched you grow up, although you''re not my real grandson, but you know clearly how I feel about you. No matter what, no matter how things are, she is your elder. You can''t yell at her like this even if you havee to me and I''ll handle things for you. It would be embarrassing if others heard about this."


    "I know I was wrong. I didn''t control my emotions well, Master An. I won''t disturb you any further, I''ll take my leave," Pei Jianguo responded woodenly.


    Perhaps he also realized clearly in his heart that this matter had nothing to do with Know Xia. He simply needed an outlet to vent the unpleasant feelings in his heart.


    The news of Guo Momo leaving had hit him too hard, making it difficult for him to bear at the moment.


    He also couldn''t understand why, after all the efforts they had made to be together initially, something Pei Jianguo had decided firmly for the first time, bravely defying Wang Yue''s control, they had been so happy then, agreeing that he would provide while she would take care of the household. But how did things be like this now?


    He knew she resented him for forgiving Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang, but they were his mother and sister. PingAn was already like this, how could he resent them for life?


    Besides, they also knew they were wrong now, and were doing their best to make amends to PingAn. It was Guo Momo who insisted on keeping PingAn from his grandmother and aunt, refusing to ept their apologies, yet she turned around and med him for putting all the pressure of raising their child on her.


    But what else could he do?


    He had to work during the day, it''s not like he could bring the child along, right?


    Wang Yue had advised him to divorce Guo Momo and find another wife who could give birth, to have a healthy son. But he didn''t agree, did he?


    Pei Jianguo walked alone on the street, unable to figure out these issues no matter how he tried.


    Returning to the pitch ck home, the scene made his heart ache.


    They had fought again today, so she had taken PingAn to stay on campus instead ofing home.


    He couldn''t remember how long it had been since they sat down nicely to have a meal together and chat about their troubles.


    He had clearly started topromise, and learned to defer to her, insisting on picking her and PingAn up every day. But her attitude remained cold as always, even when they slept together it was purely perfunctory.


    Sometimes, he could even clearly see the disgust revealed in her eyes.


    She really didn''t love him anymore, and wanted to escape from him, even abandoning the PingAn she loved most.


    After a long, long time, Pei Jianguo finally had to ept this fact.


    They had gotten a divorce certificate, because Wang Yue said she would be gone for years without returning, they couldn''t let her son keep waiting.


    Guo Momo was more than happy to agree, so she was very decisive.


    Pei Jianguo had always cared about face, naturally he was unwilling to cling on stubbornly.


    PingAn couldn''t go abroad. Looking at the child he had desperately fought to birth and raise with his own hands for years, Guo Momo wept uncontrobly.


    She would never be able to have children again, this was possibly the only child she would have in her life, so parting was naturally difficult.


    But going abroad was also her only chance.


    Life now was too hopeless. Sometimes when she brought PingAn home, passing by the riverside, she even thought that she only needed to stop and hold her child as she jumped in, and mother and son could both be free from misery.


    Yet she stillcked the courage. As long as you''re alive, who really wants to die?


    She didn''t want to continue tormenting each other with Pei Jianguo. She wanted to leave this ce. She wanted to make something of herself. She wanted to make all those who looked down on her regret it.


    She also thought, Wang Yue and her daughter should pay the price.


    Why should they be able to live well and continue driving a wedge between her and her family after harming her and PingAn to this extent?


    One day, she would return, and realize all these ideas in her heart one by one.


    PingAn, wait for your mother toe back.


    By then, the two of us will definitely have the best life. I will make it up to you then.


    Endure for a while more. With so many people in the Pei family, they won''t watch you suffer.


    Just hold on for a few more years, everything will be better.

 Chapter 327: Open Your Mouth

    <h4>Chapter 327</h4>


    The day after Guo Momo left, Zhi Xia received a letter at noon. Her roommate delivered it to her, along with 1000 yuan tucked inside.


    Dear Xiaoshen,


    By the time you receive this letter, I should have already left.


    I''m truly sorry. I know I''m selfish, and it must be disgusting and annoying. I don''t expect you to forgive me, but I hope you can take care of PingAn for me. I''m truly begging you...


    ...


    When Zhi Xia finished reading the letter, she didn''t know what to say. However, Guo Momo was right about one thing: she was indeed quite selfish.


    Why didn''t she talk to her face-to-face about taking care of PingAn? Was she afraid of rejection?


    No, she was employing emotional ckmail.


    Leaving behind this letter and 1000 yuan, not even giving her a chance to refuse.


    If Zhi Xia ignored it, then from a moral standpoint, she would be at fault. If she took care of PingAn, it would align with Guo Momo''s intentions.


    Guo Momo was pitiful and helpless, and the child was also pitiful.


    But does anyone else have the responsibility or obligation to take care of her child?


    It''s trulyughable.


    However, one had to admit that Guo Momo was indeed shrewd.


    If it wasn''t for meeting Pei Jianguo, this foolish guy, she probably wouldn''t have ended up living like this.


    This 1000 yuan was not a small amount. Besides being able to emotionally ckmail her, she could use it to justify herself in the future when she returned from abroad and faced a mature PingAn. At least she could im that she hadn''t neglected PingAn and that she had entrusted someone to take care of him.


    But Zhi Xia was truly disgusted by her behavior.


    After returning home, Zhi Xia immediately called Pei Jing and asked him to contact Pei Yong toe back.


    If she handed over this 1000 yuan to Pei Jianguo, it would probably be like feeding meat buns to a dog. The only person in the big house whom she could rely on and trust was Pei Yong.


    Pei Jianguo had such a personality, and Wang Yue also yed a significant role. If PingAn were left to her care, without Old Pei and others overseeing, who knows what kind of person he would be.


    After hanging up the phone, Zhi Xia asked Grandfather, "Grandpa, I want to install a telephone in my ce too. It would be more convenient for us to stay in touch. I just wonder if there are any requirements besides the cost?"


    Zhi Xia had been thinking about this for a while, and it was the same with Hu Zhou and the others. They needed to keep in touch regrly, and each time they had toe over here, although the ce wasn''t far, it became inconvenient over time.


    "The requirements aren''t as strict as before, but I think it''s a bit wasteful to install another telephone. It''s also troublesome. Otherwise, let someone from the post officee over and install an extension in your ce?" Grandfather jokingly said to her, "You use it more, so it''s only fair that you pay a bit more for the phone bill in the future."


    Grandmother couldn''t help butugh at his words. "You''re so calcting. She''s your own granddaughter, and you still care about the phone bill?"


    Grandfather blushed, "I''m just joking with the child. But with you meddling, it sounds like it''s real."


    "I know Grandpa is joking," Zhi Xia agreed, "Grandpa, Grandma, then I''ll go back first."


    As soon as she left, the smile on the olddy''s face disappeared instantly, reced by a trace of worry. "I never realized before that this boy JianGuo couldn''t handle things so well. It''s not just about marrying a wife, he can''t even live his own life properly. And now he''s getting involved with ZhiXia. A few days ago, Pei JianGuo even inexplicablyined to ZhiXia. Guo Momo is even worse, leaving and leaving behind such a big trouble for ZhiXia."


    That 1,000 yuan was not meant for ZhiXia, but to control her. It was overly shrewd, and they didn''t stop to think about it. If you have difficulties, it''s better to ask others nicely, and maybe they''ll help you. Who would willingly help when they''re forced to do so?


    "Say a few less words. Fortunately, Pei Yong can still manage things. Now we just have to wait for him toe back," the old master thought. Thankfully, that old man died early. If he lived a few more years and saw the confused things his beloved grandson did, who knows how angry he would have been.


    Sometimes, it''s fortunate to have a clean break and die altogether.


    Pei Yong came back in the middle of the night, brought back by Pei Jing in his car.


    The few times he came back, he stayed on this side. There are more houses here, enough for him to stay.


    But this time, as soon as he got out of the car, he headed straight to Pei JianGuo''s side.


    ZhiXia asked Pei Jing, "Why did youe back too?"


    "There''s nothing much going on these days, and I was nning to take a few days off anyway. Since Big Brother was worried about the family, I went to pick him up." Pei Jing''s main concern was still about the 1,000 yuan matter, afraid that ZhiXia would feel unhappy.


    To be precise, these matters originally had nothing to do with ZhiXia. It was because of his own reasons that they became involved and implicated her.


    Deep down, Pei Jing felt a profound sense of guilt.


    Holding ZhiXia''s hand, it took a lot of effort to coax away a group of children who hade over.


    The two of them walked into the house, and Pei Jing said, "ZhiXia, Pei JianGuo''s matters will be handled by Big Brother from now on. I''m sorry for involving you again."


    "There''s no need to apologize. It''s not your fault," ZhiXia smiled and said, "Since Big Brother is back, let me give you the 1,000 yuan. When you have time, please pass it on to Big Brother."


    Pei Jing nodded in agreement, and ZhiXia went to get him some pajamas and asked him to take a bath first.


    In Pei JianGuo''s house, the weak cries of the child continued, and it was clear that his throat was already hoarse.


    PingAn was lying on the floor in the living room, and Pei JianGuo walked back and forth in irritation, while Wang Yue was exhausted.


    Pei Shuangshuang frowned as she looked at PingAn andined, "Will he ever stop? He''s been crying since yesterday, crying when he wakes up, crying when he''s awake. I really can''t stand it anymore. Mom, Brother, you take care of him yourselves. I''m going back home. If I don''t rest soon, I won''t have the energy to go to work."


    "Then go back quickly. It''ste, so be careful on the road."


    After Guo Momo left, Wang Yue was initially excited. Although PingAn didn''t meet her expectations, he was still her own grandson, and she didn''t intend to ignore him.


    But the prolonged crying made her exhausted. Neither her son nor daughter could help, and she was left tofort him all by herself.


    At this moment, she couldn''t coax him anymore, so she let him lie on the ground and cry as he pleased.


    "Ah... Mom... Mama..."


    This was PingAn''s first time speaking. On the second day after Guo Momo left, he finally called out for his mother.


    Although his hoarse voice made his words sound jagged, it was still a good start.


    Unfortunately, she didn''t hear it.


    Wang Yue, however, was filled with excitement. "Jianguo, did you hear PingAn talking?"


    Pei Jianguo abruptly halted his pacing and walked briskly to PingAn''s side, crouching down. "PingAn, can you speak now? Can you speak now?"


    His emotions were visibly stirred, as he lifted the child in his arms, his face showing a mix of tears and smiles.


    If their son could really speak, then he wouldn''t be disabled anymore. That would be wonderful.


    "PingAn, say it again. Say it again for Daddy to hear..." Pei Jianguo finally coaxed the child with a bit more patience.

 Chapter 328: Words that can be Understood

    <h4>Chapter 328</h4>


    However, PingAn remained silent, crying incessantly. The words "mom" just now seemed like a misunderstanding to them.


    Pei Jianguo quickly lost his patience and handed the child over to Wang Yue. "Mom, please help soothe him. I''m about to go crazy from the noise."


    Wang Yue reluctantly stood up, dragging her weary body, andined, "I told you Guo Momo wasn''t a good woman, but you insisted on marrying her. Now look, she''s run away, leaving you with such a mess��a disabled son. Who will take care of him in the future? Who would be willing to marry you and be a stepmother to a disabled child?"


    Pei Jianguo weakly retorted, "Can you please not speak like that? Constantly referring to him as disabled. He''s already 4 years old, he can understand."


    After all, he was their only son, and Pei Jianguo felt a bit of tenderness for him.


    "I''m not wrong. If he can understand, then he can understand. He''s just a little kid, what can he do?" Although she spoke in such a manner, Wang Yue''s tonecked conviction.


    Besides, she may speak harshly, but when it came toforting and carrying the child, it had to be her. Since yesterday until now, he knew that crying child was irritating.


    Wang Yue wasn''t familiar with the little one. She rarely came over, and Guo Momo didn''t allow her to interact with the child. Over time, PingAn, despite being young, also felt something. He didn''t like his grandmother and that aunt.


    When Pei Jianguo held him, his crying became a bit softer, but he had been crying for too long and couldn''t stop.


    Unfortunately, Pei Jianguocked patience and handed him over to Wang Yue after a short while.


    Pei Yong stood at the doorway and happened to overhear their conversation. He felt a surge of anger.


    He rubbed his throbbing brow and pushed open the door.


    PingAn was still in Wang Yue''s arms, and due to struggling, his whole body was twisted.


    "Stop causing trouble, or Grandma will hit you!" After Wang Yue finished shouting, she heard the sound of the door opening and looked up to see Pei Yong. Her ironic tone didn''t even register in her brain. "Oh, the busy man is back. Did youe back to pick up your precious grandson?"


    She knew it was impossible for Pei Yong to take PingAn away because he couldn''t juggle work and taking care of the child.


    Pei Yong looked at Wang Yue, who was mocking him, and silently walked over, taking PingAn into his own arms.


    The little one continued to cry and fuss, and Pei Yong used his broad palm to stroke his back, slowlyforting him.


    When he looked up at Pei Jianguo, his eyes were filled with disappointment.


    "What are your ns for this child in the future?"


    Under his piercing gaze, Pei Jianguo guiltily lowered his head, unable to meet his eyes.


    He always acted this way��always avoiding responsibility when it was time to shoulder it.


    Pei Yong let out a sigh of disappointment. "Pei Jianguo, you''re not young anymore. No one can clean up your messes forever. Do you understand? When you insisted on marrying, I helped you get a house. But after getting married, you didn''t live a good life. Look into your own conscience and think, Guo Momo left without any reluctance to go abroad. Do you not have any responsibility at all?"


    "What responsibility does JianGuo have? It''s that wretched woman who doesn''t know contentment and insists on keeping everything in her own hands endlessly. JianGuo has already listened to you and given her his sry. What else can he do? He''s a man, and it''s already tiring enough for him to earn money and take care of the family outside..."


    "Shut up!"


    Wang Yue''s words were interrupted by Pei Yong''s angry roar, causing her to shiver.


    She instinctively wanted to retort, but the coldness in Pei Yong''s eyes made her feel guilty in front of him for the first time.


    "Pei JianGuo, I know I can''t persuade you, but as a father, I still have to tell you that you live your own life. You''re not young anymore, and you should know what you want." Pei Yong looked at the child in his arms, who had closed his eyes amidst crying and seemed restless, asionally making a few whimpering sounds.


    Thest time he came back, this little child couldn''t make any sound. He would shyly hide behind Guo Momo and asionally look at him with wet, curious eyes.


    Pei Yong gently touched his forehead with one hand, filled with regret. "I''ll take PingAn with me. I''ll take care of this child from now on, but this is also thest time. Dad will clean up this mess for you."


    Pei JianGuo grew up to be the person he is now, and Wang Yue couldn''t shirk her responsibility, but he was not innocent either.


    So, Pei Yong repeatedlyforted himself, thankful that the child had a good character. With his support, they could still get by.


    But reality told him that it was no longer possible.


    What was missed was missed in the end, and his avoidance had harmed Pei JianGuo. He couldn''t let PingAn grow up to be like this in the future.


    Pei Yong walked far away with PingAn in his arms, and Pei JianGuo and Wang Yue didn''t stop him. It was not only because they were frightened by Pei Yong, but also because they no longer needed to take care of PingAn, just one less burden.


    After a long time, Wang Yue finally sat down on a chair andined, "Let him take care of it. I want to see how he can take care of a child when he''s busy all the time. Son, let''s not be sad. If Guo Momo wants to leave, let her go. I want to see how well she can live abroad. Listen to Mom, let''s find a good daughter-inw and bring her back. The daughter of the director of the Horse Hospital is beautiful and tall. She looks like a perfect match for you. Mom will think about it. You should meet her someday. Guo Momo will regret it sooner orter..."


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia were in the house and heard the sound of the child crying from the yard, so they hurried out to see.


    As expected, Pei Yong had returned, but he still had PingAn in his arms.


    Zhi Xia was a bit confused and didn''t understand what he meant.


    Was he taking PingAn away? But how would he take care of him afterwards?


    Zhi Xiaoyuguang nced at Pei Jing and had no intention of interfering in the matter between the brothers. She believed that Pei Yong wouldn''t have foolish thoughts like Guo Momo.


    She also believed in Pei Jing and knew he wouldn''t make things difficult for her.


    Just as she was about to go back to the house and let them discuss things on their own, she noticed PingAn twitching his eyelids and then opening his eyes.


    "Ah... wuwu..." a distressed cry came out as he desperately reached his hand towards Zhi Xiaoyuguang.


    There was no one in front of him that he recognized, only Third Granny. He wanted Third Granny to take him to find his mother.


    His mother hadn''t abandoned him; she loved him the most. She wouldn''t do anything to lose him.


    Although he was young and couldn''t speak, he understood a lot.


    Grandma and Aunt didn''t like him and his mother; they always spoke ill of them in front of Dad. They must be lying too. Mom didn''t reject him; they were all deceiving him.

 Chapter 329: How to Fail

    <h4>Chapter 329</h4>


    Zhi Xia was also a mother. Although she really wanted to be heartless and not care, seeing this child desperately looking for her and reaching out, after watching him grow up until now, she still felt very reluctant.


    Her actions were faster than her thoughts. With almost no hesitation, PingAn was already in her arms.


    "PingAn dear, let''s not cry..." Zhi Xia coaxed him.


    PingAn was indeed controlling his expression. Although he was still gasping unceasingly, he put his arms around Zhi Xia''s neck to try to calm himself down as much as possible. He opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something but didn''t know how to pronounce it.


    After a long time, he finally spit out a syble, "Mom... Mom..."


    Zhi Xia showed joy first because before today, he still couldn''t call anyone.


    Pei Yong and Pei Jing also had delighted expressions on their faces. No matter what, the child had finally learned to speak.


    He was only 4 years old, an age that couldn''t be away from his mother. Adding that no one had truly cared about him these years except Guo Momo, it was normal for him to cry and fuss.


    Luckily he was very familiar with Zhi Xia. Also, before Guo Momo left, she had repeatedly told him that when his mom was not around, he must listen to his third granny and could not make trouble, otherwise his mom would note back. As long as he was obedient, his mom woulde back to pick him up after a while.


    At that time, he still didn��t understand what it meant. He only thought that as usual, his mom might have something to do and asked him to stay at third granny��s for a while.


    But she didn��t bring him here this time. Instead, she disappeared. Those two bad women and dad said they didn��t want him anymore.


    That��s impossible. His mom would never abandon him. They must have lied to him.


    Seeing him nestled obediently in Zhi Xia��s arms without crying, Pei Yong��s eyes turned sour at this moment. The man in his forties also didn��t feel good.


    Living together day and night, the child didn��t show the slightest dependence on his father. Instead, he was so intimate with Zhi Xia.


    It can be imagined how failed Pei JianGuo was as a father.


    "Zhi Xia, the child has been crying for a long time and his throat is hoarse. Please helpfort him for a while. He kept crying and fussing over there too, didn''t really rest well. He must be extremely tired too. So, after he falls asleep, I��ll take him away again ..."


    When Pei Yong said this, PingAn''s hand holding Zhi Xia��s neck suddenly tightened a little bit. His watery eyes stared warily at Pei Yong.


    "PingAn, this is your grandfather, and also a rtive who loves you as much as your mother does. PingAn should also love grandpa and be a good boy, okay?"


    The reason why PingAn was so against Wang Yue and the others wasrgely because they always spoke ill of Guo Momo in front of PingAn.


    Although Guo Momo temporarily abandoned PingAn and left, it cannot be denied that before this, she was indeed a good mother and the person PingAn relied on most.


    Children don''t listen to what others say. He only knew that he wouldn��t like anyone who spoke badly of his mom.


    Pei Yong also tried to please PingAn with a smile, and this time, he didn��t dodge.


    His mom had also mentioned grandpa to him before, saying that although grandpa seldom came back, he had given a lot of money for PingAn to eat and use over the years. Therefore, PingAn should listen to grandpa and be good and obedient, so as not to upset those who loved him, otherwise they would be sad.


    Seeing grandpa''s expectant gaze, he wanted tofort him, but he didn��t want to leave third granny��s arms because he was afraid.


    "Grandpa came back this time specially to see PingAn. Shouldn''t we let grandpa feel sad and spend more time with him?" As if she didn''t know Guo Momo had left, Zhi Xia spoke gently with a warm smile as usual. "You see, it��s not easy for grandpa toe back all this way. He walked a long, long way, so how about sleeping with him and your sixth uncle tonight? Otherwise he can''t find the basin to wash his face and doesn''t know where the toothpaste is. He would be very pitiful if he slept alone at night..."


    Pei JianGuo only had one young uncle Pei Jing, but PingAn had five uncles from his dad��s side and one aunt.


    Pei Chenyou was of the same age as him, but Pei Chenyou always imed seniority over PingAn. He liked to tease PingAn and the two little guys had always had a good rtionship.


    Pei ChenYou had already fallen asleep in the room. When woken up, he was still a little confused, but when he heard PingAn hade, he ran out excitedly.


    PingAn''s throat was very hoarse, so Zhi Xia made an excuse to feed him some medicine to avoid a sore throat tomorrow. In fact, she gave him some life essence water.


    This thing had a fast recovery effect, much more effective than medicine.


    In the yard, little Pei ChenYou acted pretentiously like an adult, leading Pei Yong to wash his face and brush his teeth, while telling him where the basin was.


    PingAn followed behind them, holding a steaming hot bun that Zhi Xia had just heated up for him from the kitchen.


    Back in the room, Zhi Xia yawned wearily.


    Pei Jing walked over to help take off her coat. Distressed, he said, "It must be tiring to coax the child. Go lie down quickly and let me massage you."


    In the past, Pei Jing was very confident that he would never let his wife suffer. He believed he also had the ability.


    But he couldn��t withstand his family always dragging him down.


    Pei Yong was much older than him and had always been very good to him. Back then before Pei Jing joined the army, Pei Yong had made a training n for him to meet the physical standards.


    Now with Pei Yong preupied by family affairs, he really couldn��t ignore it.


    Although she had a very healthy pregnancy in the past, she couldn��t withstand back pain inte term either, so he often massaged her legs too.


    In a blink of an eye, it had been several years. Zhi Xia was veryfortable now and happily enjoyed his service.


    "By the way, did big brother mention to you how he nned to arrange for PingAn in the future?" Very likely PingAn wouldn''t be sent back to Pei JianGuo now. Otherwise that would be no different from handing him to Wang Yue. Besides, he shouldn''t have brought the child back now.


    "Rushing back anxiously all the way, he didn''t even have time to drink water, let alone talk about those things." Pei Jing sighed and said, "But since big brother brought PingAn back today, he probably won''t send him back and will likely take him to the troops. Then he can be sent to daycare and at night when big brother is not around, spend some money to ask the military wives to help take care..."


    There was another possibility that Pei Yong would retire and return home.


    But ording to Pei Yong��s seniority after having been in the army for so many years, retiring at this point would be a big loss.


    Hearing him say this, Zhi Xia also felt relieved. Luckily he hadn''t asked her to help raise PingAn.


    It was true that PingAn was very well behaved, and she also felt distressed for him. But Pei JianGuo��s usations that day were still vivid in her mind, and she really didn��t want to get involved in their affairs anymore.


    Seeing Zhi Xia blinking as she fell asleep, Pei Jing also stopped what he was doing.


    He turned his head to take out the 1,000 yuan Zhi Xia had given him from the drawer. Afraid to wake up Zhi Xia, he slowly tiptoed out.


    In order to get PingAn familiar with Pei Yong as soon as possible, the three of them shared little Pei ChenYou��s room to sleep since the bed was big enough.


    The room light had already been turned off. Pei Yong walked out wearing his clothes and happened to see Pei Jing.


    ��Why aren��t you asleep yet?��


    ��Big brother, you aren��t asleep either.��


    Pei Jing walked over to give him the money while exining clearly that this money was left by Guo Momo.

 Chapter 330: The Dust Settles

    <h4>Chapter 330</h4>


    Pei Yong smiled and took the money, though he did not speak, he still felt ashamed.


    How badly did Pei JianGuo do to make Guo Momo reach this point, without even giving him a shred of trust.


    Of course, he was not ming Guo Momo for what she should not have done, he just felt that he did not teach his son well, harming others and himself.


    "Big brother, what are you nning to do next?" Pei Jing asked.


    Pei Yong''s eyebrows were filled with a trace of worry at Pei Jing''s question. He was about to take out a cigarette and pinch it between his lips, but suddenly remembered that he was going to sleep with his grandchild today. His actions paused slightly and he put the cigarette back in his pocket.


    He moved his steps towards the backyard, and Pei Jing naturally followed.


    After a long time, Pei Yong''s voice came, changing from powerless at first to firm, "I n to transfer back to take care of him."


    Pei Jing sighed, not surprised, but felt it was a pity, and gave his suggestion, "Big brother, have you considered taking him to the troops and asking someone to take care of him?"


    "To be honest, on the way back, I had already thought about all kinds of feasible ways." Pei Yong said helplessly and smiled bitterly, "Ah Jing, but just now I was also thinking, if when JianGuo was young I had not chosen to escape, but had stayed by his side and taught him, would it not be a different picture today?"


    He used to feel that the child was not bad, even if he was more mediocre, as long as he did notmit crimes it was fine.


    But now he finally understood that it was precisely because he had this idea that Pei JianGuo had be what he was today.


    His personality was not bad, but it could not be considered good either.


    He did notmit crimes, but he pointed the knife in his hand at the person who needed his protection, thus creating the current situation.


    ZhiXia woke up in the middle of the night to find no one beside her.


    She opened her eyes in confusion, and Pei Jing happened to push the door in from outside.


    "Why aren''t you sleeping in the middle of the night and where did you go?"


    "I was talking with big brother in the yard for a while." Pei Jing walked over and put his coat on the end of the bed,zily hugged her and asked, "Did I wake you up?"


    He still carried the unique freshness that belonged to the night. She moved and leaned her head on his shoulder, shaking her head lightly, "No, I just woke up and found you weren''t there. It''s veryte, go to sleep quickly."


    ...


    When daylight broke, ZhiXia opened the door to see PingAn standing expectantly at the door.


    "PingAn is so diligent, how did you get up so early? Have you washed your face and brushed your teeth?" ZhiXia asked casually.


    He shook his head, not even opening his mouth. The "Mom" he had called out yesterday seemed to be just an illusion for all of them.


    ZhiXia did not mind, and pulled his little hand. "Then the third aunt will take you to wash your face, wash it clean, only then will you be lovely and well-behaved."


    Every time she referred to herself this way, ZhiXia felt as if she was very old.


    Pei Yong came out of the kitchen and said, "ZhiXia, go about your business, I will take care of PingAn."


    "That''s fine too." ZhiXia told him to listen to grandpa, although it had only been overnight, it was obvious that PingAn was no longer repellent to Pei Yong''s approach.


    After ZhiXia had eaten, she still had to go to school. When she came back she learned about Pei Yong''s n to transfer, and that he had gone out to look for a house today.


    Pei Jing was not often at home either, so it was definitely not feasible for him to live here with PingAn, and now he was alsopletely disappointed with Pei JianGuo, and did not want to live with him.


    The savings and housing left over from the divorce were all given to Wang Yue, but in recent years, apart from subsidizing his grandson every month, he did not have much to spend money on, and most of it was left unused.


    Plus the 1,000 dors left by Guo Momo, it was enough for him and PingAn to buy a smaller house and live in it.


    Pei Jing had been helping him look for a house these days. Every time they went out, they took PingAn and Little Sixth with them, with each person carrying one. PingAn, who had never experienced paternal love, felt novelty for the first time.


    Although this feeling came from his grandfather.


    With the familiar ZhiXia and Little Sixth around, PingAn was smiling again after a few days.


    It was just that when he had nothing to do, he would squat at the door, peeking out from time to time.


    They all knew he was waiting for Guo Momo toe back for him.


    Just then there was a family that had a t for sale behind the house. Although the house was not very big, the price was reasonable. But Pei Yong stillcked 400 dors.


    Pei Jing meant to lend it to him first, but he did not agree, and instead borrowed 200 dors from Pei Sheng, while Pei Jing lent him another 200 dors.


    His original words were, "You two families lend me 200 dors each, this amount is not too much. No matter who wants to use the money in the future, don''t hide it from me. Just gather some together and I can pay you back. On the other hand, if I borrow too much, I will feel burdened."


    Although Pei Yong was preparing to transfer, there were still some things that needed to be handed over, and there was also the issue of his new job after his transfer to arrange.


    He had just built up some feelings with PingAn, and was afraid that if he left for a few days and came back, there would be estrangement again. So he simply took PingAn with him to the troops, and woulde back after all the formalities werepleted.


    During this time, Pei JianGuo came a few times, but every time, Pei Yong did not give him a good face, and refused his request to let PingAn go and live with him.


    After experiencing so much in his life, he was quite open-minded now.


    Pei JianGuo was almost thirty years old. As a father, no matter which aspect it was, he could no longer intervene, it was better to focus his energy on his grandson.


    This child was the biggest victim of their kind of family, and if there was anypensation to give, PingAn deserved it the most.


    Pei Jing did note back for nothing this time. Taking advantage of his time at home, he also solved the phone problem.


    Because installing one alone would be very troublesome and would require some approval procedures, he bought an extension from his grandparents and pulled a wire over. He only needed to get someone to install it, which was not much trouble at all.


    The result finally came out on Wu Lei and Hu Zhou''s side, and thend was sessfully obtained, although the price was slightly higher than expected, costing a total of 120,000 yuan.


    The next step was paperwork and building the factory.


    ZhiXia was talking to Wu Xiaohua at the school gate. Wu Lei had been away for several months. asionally he would call back and ask about Wu Xiaohua''s situation, with most of themunication between father and son being conveyed through her.


    There was also one time when ZhiXia suggested scheduling a time to talk with Wu Lei, so that Wu Xiaohua could speak to him, but Wu Lei refused.


    Also because of Wu Lei''s departure and Wu Xiaohua''s introversion, the snack stall''s business was no longer as crowded as before, but only a few sporadic customers barely maintaining Wu Xiaohua''s livelihood.


    ZhiXia wanted to help him, but he was not willing to ept it. She could only pay more attention to the business, adding two pieces of clothing for him when it got hot.


    She told Wu Xiaohua that she would keep fifteen oil sticks for her in the afternoon to take home for dinner.


    As soon as she turned her head, she saw Wang Li struggling with a man.


    She looked a little annoyed on her face, but the man clung to her relentlessly, chasing her all the way to the school gate.

 Chapter 331: The Helplessness of abandoning Husband and Daughter

    <h4>Chapter 331</h4>


    Zhi Xia did not understand what was going on, but she could also see that Wang Li did not want to get entangled with the man.


    She quickened her pace and walked over, facing Wang Li and asking, "Do you need help?"


    Wang Li''s face shed panic for a moment, and she hurriedly said, "No need, Zhi Xia, I know him, you go in first, I can handle it myself."


    Hearing that she knew him, Zhi Xia felt relieved. She nodded at the man and then walked through the school gate.


    It took Wang Li a long time toe in.


    Unlike her usual lively appearance, as soon as she came in today, she sat down in her seat, rested her arms on the table, and remained silent.


    She didn''t liven up until ss started.


    At lunchtime, Wang Li hesitantly asked her, "Aren''t you curious about me?"


    She realized that Zhi Xia was indeed different from her. She was not as curious as her, wanting to know everything.


    If what happened today had happened to Zhi Xia, she was afraid she would not have been able to help asking.


    At the same time, there was some disappointment in her heart.


    After nearly a year and a half of getting along, she had truly regarded Zhi Xia as her friend, but Zhi Xia had always been indifferent, and it was mostly her who took the initiative in their interactions.


    "Everyone has curiosity, and I''m no exception," Zhi Xia answered her, it''s just that some curiosity can only hurt others.


    Wang Li''s smile was bitter. "Actually, I really hope someone would ask me about it. Zhi Xia, you don''t understand. Many times, I feel so depressed, so painful, I really want to find someone to confide in, but my parents and brother don''t want me to mention the past."


    Zhi Xia patted her shoulderfortingly, "Try to look at things more openly. There are no insurmountable obstacles in this world. Wang Li, don''t repress yourself. Life in this world is short to begin with, and if you can''t live as you wish, what''s the point ofing to this world for a walk?" No matter what decision you make, think carefully about what you want before doing it. Is there really no better solution?"


    In this life, Wang Li and An Zhiang were already two parallel lines that could never intersect again. As for her, Zhi Xia also hoped that she could live more freely, and not be easily swayed by other people''s words, and in the end do something extreme.


    "Actually, that person is my husband from the countryside, and we have a daughter." After a long, long time, Wang Li uttered these words, her tone slightly unsteady.


    When she first went down to the countryside, she was only eighteen or neen years old. The life in the countryside was too hard, and the ce she went to was dry and cold in winter, with endless farm work throughout the four seasons.


    Like many educated youths who were sent down to the countryside, after persevering for a few years but seeing no hope of returning, she simply could not persist any longer, so she married a local man there.


    She had thought that she would just live out the rest of her life like this, but when news of the restoration of the college entrance examination came, she believed that no one would not be moved.


    With the support of her inws after getting married, her life was much better than before, but this did not mean that she could stop working, because everyone had to rely on food rations to eat.


    Wang Li looked at herself in the mirror, at her rough cheeks and hands full of calluses and cracks, and made a final decision.


    After saying all this, she cried andy slumped on the table. "Zhi Xia, do you know, when I first decided toe back, I didn''t think of abandoning them either. I thought that after I settled down in the city, I would find a way to bring them over, but...but my family disagreed with me being with him. Last summer, my mother had my brother lock me up in the room and not let me out. He doesn''t have an urban household registration, he can''t stay, and I don''t want to either. I know I''m selfish, but I have no choice... I don''t want to go back to face the soil with my back to the sky..."


    Time would always make people forget all the good memories. When she first returned to the city, she thought of them father and daughter all day long, but after a year and a half, she realized that she could no longer remember her daughter''s face clearly, and they had all gradually blurred in her memory.


    But just then, he came looking for her again, and kept pestering her.


    Wang Li didn''t want to go back with him, and was even annoyed by his arrival, but her conscience would still condemn her, making her feel uneasy.


    Perhaps from the perspective of the father and daughter, she was a bad woman who abandoned her husband and child, but who could understand her pain!


    Zhi Xia understood that experiences like Wang Li''s were not unique, but rather verymon.


    The educated youths who married in the countryside had to make a choice between family and returning to the city, and the hard life plus heavy farm work made most people unlikely to choose to stay.


    One could not simply me any one person for this, it was just the tragedy and suffering left by the era.


    The only thing Zhi Xia could do wasfort her and quietly be a listening ear.


    She didn''t need her own advice. Wang Li''s impatience in her eyes when struggling with the man that morning had already made the decision for her. Even if she forced herself to be with that man, they would not be happy.


    In the afternoon, Wang Li regained her usual cheerful appearance. If it weren''t for her crying so sadly at noon, who would have known that she was actually harboring so many things in her heart!


    As soon as she walked out of the school gate in the afternoon, the man was waiting for her at the gate again.


    Zhi Xia was still following behind her. Wang Li instinctively dodged, as there were many people leaving school at this time, and she was afraid the other party would pester her.


    But obviously, her thoughts were somewhat unnecessary.


    Seeing her dodge, the man stopped disappointedly and stood there silently watching her walk away.


    Zhi Xia saw Wang Li''s eyes brimming with tears already. She patted Wang Lifortingly on the shoulder, "I''ll go back first, my child is waiting for me at home."


    "Zhi Xia, what would you do if you were me?" Wang Li suddenly asked her.


    Zhi Xia thought for a moment, "But I''m not you."


    If it were herself, after making the initial choice, she would not easily give up.


    Just like her and Pei Jing, they didn''t have much affection at first, and their first encounter was even worse. It was in the flow of time that they fell deeply for each other''s tenderness.


    Wang Li, on the other hand, had chosen the man when she was in need, and then abandoned him when she felt he had be a burden. And there was a child involved.


    Perhaps she was also very tormented inside, but Zhi Xia could not in good conscience say that she was right, so she chose to remain silent.


    After parting ways with Wang Li, she carried arge bag of fried dough sticks home.


    A few dayster, Zhi Xia was stopped by the man on her way home.


    "If you want me to persuade Wang Li, I''m afraid I can''t do it," Zhi Xia took the initiative.


    The man seemed not to expect her to guess his purpose so directly. He opened his mouth but did not say anything. He simply stepped aside to make way.


    Zhi Xia rode by calmly, then looked back at the man''s figure.


    The man was thin and tall, with dark skin, probably due to frequent sun exposure. He looked like an honest man, at least not pestering her after her blunt words.

 Chapter 332: The Moral Question

    <h4>Chapter 332</h4>


    Perhaps it was because he saw Zhi Xia look back at him again that his tranquil eyes were full of anticipation.


    Zhi Xia sighed, still couldn''t bear to dissuade him with a sentence, "Comrade, I think what you should consider most now is the gap between you, how hard the rural life is. You should know that even if she reluctantly goes back with you, she will still feel unhappy and unsettled in her heart. Can you understand?"


    "I know," the man mumbled, "I''m not forcing her to go back with me either. I already knew when she got into college that I couldn''t keep her, I just wanted her to go back and see the child because the child misses his mom too much."


    The man''s eyes were red, looking no more than in his early twenties. He slowly approached Zhi Xia, took out a photo from his arms and handed it over, "I''m going back tomorrow. This is a photo of the child. The child had a high fever recently and was quite severely ill, kept calling for his mom. She didn''t want to listen to me talk about this, always felt like I was lying to get her to go back. But I still want to ask you to help tell her that if she has time, go back and see the child, I won''t stop her from leaving if she doesn''t want to."


    Zhi Xia thought about it and still took the photo, "I will give this photo to her and ry your words to her."


    Back home, Zhi Xia took out the photo and took a look.


    The little girl was so pretty, but she looked ill. Her hair was tied into two little braids, and her eyes looked especially big because she was so thin. She was trying to smile but her expression made it seem like she wanted to cry.


    She looked about the same age as Yue Yue.


    The next day when Zhi Xia arrived at school, she pulled Wang Li out and handed her the photo, "Yesterday afternoon, he asked me to give this to you and said he was leaving today."


    Zhi Xia told Wang Li his words verbatim.


    She took the photo, her fingers kept rubbing the image on the photo. After a long while, she suddenly frowned, threw the photo on the ground, "He just wants to trick me into going back. He took this photo on purpose, why couldn''t he take it at any other time, he had to take it when she was sick and looked so pitiful. He wants me to feel bad for the child, says he won''t force me to stay, it must be a lie."


    Sometimes when one is determined about an idea, no one can persuade them otherwise.


    After she left, Zhi Xia picked up the photo from the ground. There was some dirt on the back of the photo. She took out a handkerchief and wiped it clean before putting it away in her storage drawer.


    Perhaps her worries were reasonable, but no matter how Wang Li saw it, the photo shouldn''t have been discarded so rashly on the ground.


    If there was another chance to meet that man, the photo should be returned to him.


    Zhi Xia didn''t expect the chance toe so soon.


    Wu Xiao Hua ran to the school to find her, "Auntie An, a man asked me to help ask if you have any updates about yesterday?"


    The man had also been here for many days. Zhi Xia often interacted with Wu Xiao Hua so she was clearly more caring towards him than a regr client. He noticed this so asked Wu Xiao Hua for some help.


    No matter the result, he still wanted to know, so he and his daughter can give up hope.


    That little girl ran to the vige entrance every day just to wait for her mother toe back. When he left, she had urged him to speak nicely to mother and not make mother angry.


    Unable to persuade Wang Li to go back to see her, the image of his daughter''s disappointed face kept appearing in his mind before he even got home.


    Zhi Xia took out the photo from her pocket, "Xiao Hua, next time he looks for you, return this photo to him and tell him to live well with his daughter."


    Wu Xiao Hua also didn''t understand the situation but took the photo and said, "Auntie An, are you very familiar with that man? He seems to be having a very hard time, I''ve seen him sleeping leaning against the roadside wall many times these past few nights."


    The weather was still a bit cool now, especially at nights.


    "Not very familiar, just a friend who knows him." Zhi Xia said, "If you find him pitiful then buy him two youtiao, I''ll settle the bill with you next time I drop by."


    Without thinking too much, since he couldn''t even afford lodging, his meals definitely wouldn''t be good either.


    Zhi Xia wasn''t randomly being kindhearted, just the normal bit of sympathy one would have seeing a stranger.


    Also, from what he said, his child back home was still sick, that was quite pitiful too.


    After Wu Xiao Hua agreed, he took the photo and left.


    In the ssroom, Zhi Xia had just sat down when Wang Li said, "Zhi Xia, I agreed to Li Fei''s pursuit, he is my boyfriend now."


    "Oh," it was a long whileter before Zhi Xia responded.


    Li Fei was a male student from the ss next door who had been pursuing Wang Li for a long time but she never agreed.


    And now at this particr time she suddenly agreed to date Li Fei, the implications were quite meaningful.


    "I didn''t actually register my marriage when I was in the vige, we just had a meal with his family. Strictly speaking, we weren''t really husband and wife." Wang Li exined.


    But Zhi Xia knew that de facto marriage was still verymon practice in viges for decades toe.


    If they didn''t have a marriage certificate they couldn''t be considered husband and wife, then probably only 1-2 out of 100 couples actually had one, and that was only because they needed it for something.


    "That''s your business, you don''t need to exin it to me," Zhi Xia said.


    Wang Li was stunned, suddenly regretting telling Zhi Xia about it. She thought Zhi Xia would understand her.


    "You may think I''m heartless, but I didn''t want it to be this way either. You''ve experienced rural life too Zhi Xia, I really couldn''t take it anymore." Wang Li still had to consider others so she lowered her voice and leaned in closer to Zhi Xia to speak softly, "Also, Li Fei doesn''t know about my past..."


    The implication was very clear, she wanted Zhi Xia to help her conceal things.


    Looking at the woman beside her, in just a few days, she felt like she was apletely different person.


    "Wang Li, some things may truly be forced by helplessness, but some things will only make others feel like you have questionable moral character," seeing that they''ve been friends for so long, Zhi Xia still had to advise her from a bystander''s perspective, "You can conceal the fact that you have a child now, but have you thought about what Li Fei would think of you if this matter came to light one day? Also what future prospects would a student with questionable character have at this school?"


    "This is my business, as long as you don''t say anything he won''t know,"


    "But I won''t help you conceal this. This is already an ethical issue. Either you confess the truth to Li Fei yourself, or I will tell him the facts."


    "Zhi Xia, I always thought we were friends. Aside from you, I haven''t even dared to tell my own family about this. I really saw you as a sister, how could you stab me in the back like this?"

 Chapter 333: Want to Learn from Teachers

    <h4>Chapter 333</h4>


    "I''ve always considered you as a friend. For a year and a half, as long as neither of us was busy, we always had lunch together and walked back to the dorms together. But I never expected that you, who always seemed so cheerful and optimistic in front of me, actually felt this way inside," Xia zhida said. Now that things were out in the open, she no longer cared about offending Wang Li.


    "Wang Li, Li Fei has been pursuing you for a long time, but you''ve never agreed. Yet now you conveniently started dating him at this critical moment, and deliberately hid the fact that you have a child. Do you think this is fair to Li Fei? Did you start dating him because you actually like him?"


    Xia zhida''s shoulder was suddenly patted by the student behind her. "What are you two whispering about over there? You''ve been muttering for so long. Tell me too if there''s any gossip!"


    "Nothing much. I was just asking Zhida about something I didn''t understand from the teacher''s lecture," Wang Li quickly cated.


    "Nevermind then, please continue your discussion," the student responded.


    Wang Li did not dare continue the conversation with Zhida. Taking advantage of the break between sses, she told Zhida, "I will exin things clearly with Li Fei myself. Zhida, I really do want to be friends with you, otherwise I wouldn''t have only told you about this when I''ve told so many other people. But for this matter, I still hope you won''t get involved anymore."


    Zhida did not want to meddle in her affairs anymore either.


    Because the two were close, Li Fei had tried currying favor with Zhida and Guo Momo several times in order to pursue Wang Li, asking them to put in a good word for him.


    Zhida hadn''t taken much advantage of Li Fei, she had just jokingly went along with it a few times, and ate a few meals with him. They couldn''t be considered friends, but at least they were acquaintances.


    Now, seeing him being deceived like this, she truly felt it would be irresponsible to just stand by.


    But the truth wasid bare. If he didn''t mind, that was for the best.


    Zhida felt she must not be fated to have good friends. Whether it was Guo Momo or Wang Li, their matters seemed unrted to her, yet she kept getting dragged into them.


    Or perhaps, she herself was also somewhat responsible.


    Outside the school, Wu Xiaohua was packing up his stall after the breakfast rush.


    Their main source of business was students, but there were also many nearby residents. With just a mobile stand, they couldn''tpete with actual storefronts, so they had to close up after the meal times.


    The man had been watching him the whole time. He jogged over and asked anxiously, "Well, how did it go?"


    "Aunt An asked me to give this to you."


    When he took the photo, the man understood everything.


    She really was ruthless. That was her own child, just a tiny little thing, waiting at home every day for her mother toe back.


    His family was not well off. He had hopped on a freight train toe here.


    The child had insisted oning along when he left, so he coaxed her that they would go into town to take a photo to bring to her mother, so she could see her daughter too. Only then did she finally relent.


    He could understand that Wang Li didn''t want to go back with him, or even recognize their child. But to not even leave a photo behind...


    The man had argued with Wang Li several times outside the school gates. Since Zhida often walked with Wang Li, Wu Xiaohua naturally recognized them.


    He was shy, but not stupid. Seeing the situation before him now, along with the child in the photo, he could guess what was going on.


    He couldn''t bring himself to say words like, "Pestering her stubbornly like this is useless. If someone wants to leave, you can''t make them stay. Why make things difficult for them and yourself? It''d be better to simply let go, make money and take care of your child properly. When you''re rich, what can''t you obtain?"


    But his father had said those words to him once when he was drunk, after his mother had abandoned them.


    His father said that in this world, men and women alike were all unreliable. Only money could be counted on. He told Wu Xiaohua to be smarter in the future, work hard to make money, so that when he became rich, what wouldn''t he have?


    He also warned him not to trip over women like his father had.


    That was actually one of Wu Lei''s good points - such a heavy blow did not negatively impact Wu Xiaohua. On the contrary, it made him even more determined to seed.


    In this day and age, for him to firmly sell his house in their hometown toe here and try his luck, spending time and money to learn his trade, was proof of his vision and capability.


    Wu Xiaohua felt his father''s perspective was right. Ever since his mother abandoned them, he only had his father left. His father was the only one in this world who truly cared for him and wished the best for him.


    Wu Xiaohua hoped that if his father hadn''t gone to jail, perhaps he could be earnestly studying in school like other children, instead of having to sell fried dough sticks outside the school gates to survive now that his father was away for work again.


    Yes, when he became rich one day, what wouldn''t he have?


    Wang Li refused to go back with him and didn''t even want to acknowledge their child, simply because she didn''t want to live in hardship with him.


    He understood that, but still could not ept her ruthlessness.


    At the same time, he was surprised that the seemingly young teenager''s words also made a lot of sense.


    "Oh right, these few dough sticks are leftovers from frying too many without selling out. Have them." Wu Xiaohua suddenly recalled Zhida''s words and handed the ready packaged dough sticks to the man.


    The man was a little embarrassed. "I...I don''t have money."


    The aromatic dough sticks made him instantly start salivating despite not having eaten well these past few days, but he still didn''t dare ept them.


    "It''s on me, I wouldn''t be able to sell the leftovers anyway."


    Only then did the man wipe his hands hastily on his clothes before epting the dough sticks and biting down ferociously into the crispy, fragrant pastry.


    That mouthwatering vor made him want to cry with emotion.


    As a child from the countryside, he was used to hardship, but the stifled grievance in his heart hurt far more than any previous suffering he had endured.


    "Boy, you look quite young yourself. Why are you here selling dough sticks every day on your own? Where''s your family? Also, why are you being so good to me? Don''t you know, kind people like you who give others easy benefit are the easiest to be swindled."


    Wu Xiaohua also felt sincere sympathy well up for the other person. "I suppose because you seemed pitiable. My mom left when I was little. At first it was my dad and me selling our wares together, but he went away to do other work, so he left me to work here alone. Business used to be good, but I''m so inarticte, I lost a lot of our customers after my dad was gone."


    Fortunately his father only required that he support himself on his own. He didn''t expect him to earn much.


    Upon hearing his story, Liu Xuan suddenly had an idea. "Boy, could I ask a favor of you? I want to learn how to make dough sticks from you...I don''t have money for tuition, but I can dobor for you. What do you think?"


    Liu Xuan was also just 24 years old, even younger than Wang Li by two years. He should be heading back by rights, since his child was still ill when he had left.


    But it was true his family was poor. Especially after paying the medical fees for his child''s treatment, the doctor even advised them to feed her more nutritious food to recuperate.


    Although he didn''t manage to bring Wang Li back this trip, it did open his eyes. This city was far livelier than his rural hometown. There was also ample business opportunity here.


    He could endure hardship and did not fear suffering. He pondered, if he could earn money here, perhaps that would make Wang Li turn back. When they had money, they could even bring over their daughter to attend school here.

 Chapter 334: Expectations and Disappointments Are Only for a Moment.

    <h4>Chapter 334</h4>


    At noon, Zhi Xia rejected Wang Li''s idea of going to the cafeteria together.


    It was obvious that she wanted to reconcile with her, but her approach had left too many bad impressions on Zhi Xia.


    She couldn''t change what others thought, but she also couldn''t get to know someone like that anymore.


    She was going to go out and find a ce to eat something casually, but when she just walked out of the school gate, she saw a strange scene.


    She walked up to Wu Xiaohua''s small stand, lightly tapped it with her index finger, and asked him, "What''s going on here?"


    Wu Xiaohua was standing to one side directing,pared to his usual expressionless face, he asionally showed disdain and asionally had some of the smile that a young man should have at this time, making him seem much more lively.


    Under his direction, Liu Xuan was busy fiddling with the oil sticks in the hot oil pot, stillughing even when scolded.


    When Wu Xiaohua saw Zhi Xiae over, he hurriedly stood up straight, "Aunt An, this is my new apprentice. He''s here to help me with work. I''m teaching him the craft."


    Liu Xuan was also a little uneasy facing Zhi Xia, because he had told her yesterday that he was leaving today, but now he was here finding work again. Would she think that he was deliberately staying to pester her?


    Fortunately, Zhi Xia just smiled and said, "Then you guys get busy, I''ll go take a look around."


    The fact that Liu Xuan chose to stay and learn the craft from Wu Xiaohua took her quite by surprise.


    But if he really learned it well, it would be a way out for him after all.


    Wu Xiaohua had oil sticks, soy milk, rice porridge, and used to have buns and other things when Wu Lei was around. Later when it was too much work for Wu Xiaohua alone, he only kept selling oil sticks.


    Zhi Xia was thinking about this when the next morning, she discovered they were steaming buns too.


    Compared to the bleakness of the past few days, now there was a circle of people inside and out. Zhi Xia waited for a while without seeing them get free until they sold out the limited number of buns made the first day.


    Liu Xuan wrapped two buns in oil paper and handed them to Zhi Xia, but didn''t know how to address her, and could only say, "Xiaohua asked me to save these for you."


    "Thank you." Zhi Xia took them and saw the tired Wu Xiaohua dozing off to the side. She went over and sat down, asking him, "Didn''t sleep wellst night?"


    "Of course not, Aunt An, you don''t know, he''s too hardworking. Yesterday when he found out that my dad and I used to sell buns too, he insisted that I teach him to knead dough and had me teach him to wrap buns in the middle of the night. I didn''t get enough sleep." Although his mouth was full ofints, the expression on his face was flying colors, vaguely revealing some pride.


    He felt that the best decision he had ever made was to keep Liu Xuan.


    Forget everything else, this guy was really hardworking and willing to work, even forcing him to work.


    Don''t be fooled by Wu Xiaohua''s usualziness. Actually if no one leads him, and he''s introverted, he can''t do it alone.


    Now with Liu Xuan taking the lead, as long as he helps out with the work without worrying, he suddenly feels like he can handle it again.


    Just now when business was good, he even thought that maybe he should also strive harder to expand the business so that when his dades back, he''ll be very surprised.


    That way he won''t always feel that his life was ruined because no one took care of him.


    Seeing his deliberately pretentious manner, Zhi Xia impatiently said, "If you work harder and have sales like today, I think you could rent a shop nearby. It would save you from the trouble of packing up the cart to set up and take down the stand every day.


    Many who used to set up stands together with Wu Lei have already rented shops. Now they''re operating properly too."


    "My dad used to say the same thing, that once we earned some money we''d rent a shop, and then save up to buy a house here and settle down." Now that Wu Xiaohua had found purpose in life again, if he achieved all these goals, would his dad look at him in a new light when he came back?


    "Then work hard. Come find me if you need any help." Zhi Xia said, "It''s gettingte, I should get going."


    "Goodbye, Aunt An." Wu Xiaohua''s increased talkativenesspared to usual made Zhi Xia smile helplessly.


    Young people still needed more social interaction after all. No wonder he always looked so listless by himself all day.


    As for Liu Xuan choosing to stay and even following Wu Xiaohua, she wondered if there would be any more chaosing up.


    After Zhi Xia left, Liu Xuan asked him, "Is she a rtive of yours?"


    "My dad''s friend." Wu Xiaohua gave a perfunctory exnation, clearly not wanting to say more.


    Liu Xuan tidied up the tables and chairs at the stand. There were hardly any customers left now. The rice porridge and buns were also sold out, with only some batter for the oil sticks left.


    Wang Li suddenly appeared at the front of the stand, staring at Liu Xuan in disbelief.


    Seeing his wife, Liu Xuan was very happy. He stood up excitedly to tell her, "Li, I know how to stay in the city now. Once I''ve learned the craft I can make money. Then I''ll be able to bring our daughter here too."


    This was what they had agreed on together previously. She would first gain a foothold in the city, then find a way to bring him and their daughter over. As long as the family was together, they could survive.


    But now, in Wang Li''s eyes, they were only burdens to her.


    "Can you stop being so self-important? I already told you to go back to the vige. Who told you to stay here and learn a craft?" Wang Li said on the verge of breaking down, "Liu Xuan, I''m begging you, just let me go. You''re only staying for money, right? Why don''t you just directly tell me how much money you want to leave?"


    Liu Xuan''s expression turned ugly. In that moment, he suddenly understood that the distance between him and Wang Li was no longer just rural versus urban.


    Even if he stayed in the city, she would still look down on him now.


    After understanding this, Liu Xuan suddenly felt somewhat relieved in his heart. "I don''t want your money and won''t bother you anymore either, Wang Li. I know you look down on me. I won''t force you. Our daughter, I''ll take care of her myself. From now on you can go pursue your own life. Even if we run into each other on the road in the future, we''ll just be strangers."


    In the year and a half since she returned to the city, there had been no news at all. He''d had a premonition about this.


    But in the end he still couldn''t let go, plus their daughter needed her mother. His persistence ining here this time was also to help himself give up.


    From now on, the bridge goes to the bridge, and the road goes to the road. After all, they were not on the same path.


    "Then you go back, go back to the vige, go back and take good care of our daughter. Why are you staying here when our child is still in the vige?" Wang Li said expectantly.


    Liu Xuan smiled bitterly. "Why can''t I stay? Wang Li, the city doesn''t belong to your family. You wanted a good life. Does that mean I don''t want one too? I''m staying here to earn money with my ownbor. In the future when I have money I''ll bring our daughter here for a life in the city. What''s wrong with that?"


    "Liu Xuan, can you please stop always opposing me? The world is so big with more than just this one city. Do you have to stay here and remind me all the time that I''m a married woman with a child?"

 Chapter 335: He鈥檚 Got a Girl with Him

    <h4>Chapter 335</h4>


    Wu Xiaohua had always been shy and did not like to cause trouble. At this moment, she might have put Wang Li in her own mother''s position, so she felt particrly unpleasant to look at.


    "I''m telling you, woman, are you done? Let''s go our separate ways, this isn''t your home. If you don''t like what you see then leave, why do you have to force my brother Liu to leave? Who do you think you are? If you were his wife I''d have nothing to say, but you''re not even his wife anymore yet you still want to control him. You''ve got some nerve!"


    Thinking back to the past, Wang Li used to follow Zhi Xia around to check on his business as well.


    But that didn''t mean she could be unreasonable in front of him now.


    Liu Xuan was his person now, and with Liu Xuan''s arrival, he had more helpers and more advice, even his business was improving.


    Just a moment ago he was thinking of letting his dad see what he''d aplished when he got back, but then Wang Li came and interrupted his ns. Wasn''t that purely to annoy him?


    "You..." Wang Li looked at Wu Xiaohua angrily, gritted her teeth, and left in a huff.


    Wu Xiaohua was really worried that Liu Xuan would leave at this point, so she quickly advised him, "Don''t let this woman brainwash you. She''s so arrogant, but she looks down on you. Let''s work hard together, and when we''ve made money, we won''t take her back even if she begs us. Women like her are ruthless and cold-hearted, she''ll get her lesson someday..."


    Wu Xiaohua didn''t usually like to bring up things like this, but Liu Xuan was different. She had to advise him more, otherwise he might follow the same old path as her dad in the future.


    Thinking about it, Wu Xiaohua couldn''t help but feel some empathy.


    Liu Xuan also didn''t expect Wu Xiaohua to have such a convoluted past. No wonder she looked down on Wang Li so much.


    At the same time, Liu Xuan felt more empathy for Wu Xiaohua as well. He couldn''t help but think of his own daughter back home, and slowly put himself in Wu Xiaohua''s position.


    In the ssroom, Wang Li arrived a littlete.


    Luckily the teacher today was easygoing, and just let her take a seat.


    After ss, Wang Li asked Zhi Xia, "Do you know Liu Xuan is helping Wu Xiaohua with work at her ce?"


    "Just found out this morning, I''m quite surprised too." Zhi Xia said.


    "Zhi Xia, I know Wu Xiaohua respects you a lot. Can you..."


    "I can''t." Zhi Xia interrupted her before Wang Li could finish speaking, "Just because she respects me doesn''t mean I can take advantage of that respect to make unreasonable requests of her. Also, Liu Xuan and I have no enmity. "


    Wang Li fell silent.


    She knew herself that her idea was perhaps too much, but with Liu Xuan staying here, he was like a ticking time bomb that could go off at any moment.


    Not only that, he even wanted to stay forever and bring his child over too.


    But Zhi Xia''s decisiveness also let her know that Zhi Xia would not help her.


    "Zhi Xia, Li Fei and I have broken up from the start, are you satisfied now?"


    Zhi Xia turned to look at her, "There''s no satisfaction or not. Wang Li, we''ve been friends for so long, I still have to advise you - live up to your conscience. Think about An MeiYun back then, if her scheming had seeded, what would have happened to you and me? People can be selfish, but they can''t force others into desperation because of their own selfishness!"


    This was the final advice she gave as a friend.


    At the same time, their journey of friendship also ended here.


    Moreover, it was unlikely that she had deep feelings for Li Fei either. Otherwise she wouldn''t have epted him at such a critical juncture, she was merely using Li Fei''s love for her to give herself peace of mind, while also letting Liu Xuan give up.


    What surprised Zhi Xia was that after school, she was stopped again.


    But this time, the person stopping her was Li Fei.


    "Zhi Xia, can we talk?" Li Fei got off his bike and looked at her asking.


    Zhi Xia nodded, also getting off her bike and walking alongside him, "You want to talk about Wang Li?"


    "I''m just confused, what exactly is she thinking? Yesterday at noon she said she wanted to date me, but in the afternoon she said she was too rash and hadn''t thought it through, that we should forget it... " Li Feiughed self-deprecatingly, he really didn''t know what to say, "Tell me what''s wrong with me that makes her toy with me like a monkey? I was so happy yesterday, even arrogantly said I''d treat the whole ss to ice cream, but then this happened in the afternoon. I bet in less than two days, I, Li Fei, will be theughingstock of the whole school. Did I offend her somehow?"


    Zhi Xia had thought Wang Li would confess to him about her previous marriage, she didn''t expect that Wang Li had directly asked to break up.


    No wonder Li Fei was so upset.


    If it happened to anyone, they''d probably feel like they were being toyed with.


    "It''s not your fault." Zhi Xia said, "Most of the regrets in life actually stem from being unsuitable for each other. The road ahead is still long, you''ll eventually meet the right one. Try to look on the bright side."


    "I want to look on the bright side too, but I just can''t." Li Fei said in frustration, rubbing his forehead, "Forget it, I won''t make things difficult for you. I''m going first."


    Zhi Xia got on her bike as well, and was about to leave when she saw Pei JianGuo up ahead, intently gazing at her with a girl by his side.


    Pei JianGuo stood in front, his handsome visage a little haggard, adding a touch of fragile beauty. The girl beside him wore a green skirt with white top - that style was designed by Su Ying.


    Although Zhi Xia didn''t have much talent for fashion design, having seen a lot, she was able to provide some insightful opinions that Su Ying always felt were very reasonable, even thinking she had talent and wanted to take her on as an apprentice.


    She had also seen most of Su Ying''s design folios, and this dress was one she had just designed recently. The colors and styling were suitable for the current season, looking fresh and youthful.


    "JianGuo, what are you looking at? Do you know that woman?" The woman looked in Zhi Xia''s direction, with some wary defensiveness in her eyes.


    That woman riding the bike was too beautiful, a gentle, mild kind of beauty without any aggression.


    It was precisely this kind of appearance that could easily leave a good impression on both genders.


    But now, her dating partner was staring at another woman, which clearly made her feel embarrassed.


    It wasn''t until Pei JianGuo exined, "That''s my aunt."

 Chapter 336: Do me a favor and let them go.

    <h4>Chapter 336</h4>


    "Oh...So it turned out to be your young auntie. She is so beautiful and so young," the woman said awkwardly.


    When Know Summer returned home, she looked around and saw only Sister Zhang busy cooking in the kitchen, Wanqing doing homework in the room, and none of the other children around.


    Even Chenye, who usually liked tinkering with parts at home, was unusually absent from the house.


    "Where are your eldest brother and younger brothers?"


    "They went to the backyard to practice martial arts with Uncle Pei," she said somewhat dejectedly, because she also wanted to go but wasn''t allowed to by her eldest brother since she hadn''t finished her homework.


    Know Summer was still a little confused. "Practice martial arts? What kind of martial arts?"


    "You''ll know once you go take a look," Wanqingy listlessly on the table, then mustered her spirits again, "Mom, don''t disturb me anymore, I want to hurry up and finish my homework."


    Know Summer raised her eyebrows and went out, closing Wanqing''s door on her way.


    Sister Zhang came out from the kitchen, "Dinner will be ready soon. Know Summer, go call them back to eat."


    "Alright, I was just going to go take a look at what martial arts they were practicing after hearing from Wanqing," Know Summer said.


    Sister Zhang smiled, "Just horse stance, running, somersaults, things like that."


    Know Summer went out the back door towards Pei Yong''s ce. Since he had bought the house right behind theirs, they could just open the back door and go through instead of walking all the way around.


    She rarely came over, but clearly noticed the backyard had changed a lotpared to herst visit.


    The weeds in the yard were cleared up cleanly, small brick paths wereid, wooden posts stood on one side, Chenye was practicing boxing, the triplets were in horse stance, Xiao Liux waspeting with PingAn to do somersaults, looking very happy and harmonious.


    Smoke was still rising from the kitchen chimney. Pei Yong came out of the house when he heard the children''s shouts, exining, "Know Summer is here. Since the kids had nothing to do, I had them learn some martial arts. It''s better than justzing around, and practicing is always good."


    He was off work today so the children came to y after school. It was a spur of the moment idea.


    After switching careers, Pei Yong worked as the security chief at a textile factory. His job was very rxed, mainly managing personnel and the like, asionally working night shifts.


    He could have gotten better benefits, but some jobs were not suitable for taking care of children. He was very satisfied with his current job, being able to bring PingAn to work and having a lounge. The security team were all burly men who respected nothing more than fists, and Pei Yong was by no means inferior in that aspect.


    "Then I''ll leave them to big brother," Know Summer said.


    There wasn''t much for Know Summer and Pei Yong to talk about. After calling the children back for dinner, they left.


    PingAn also ran over to grab Pei Yong''s fingers, looking at him expectantly with bright eyes and pointing at his belly, "Hungry."


    He could now say some simple words to call people and express his needs.


    Know Summer had continued giving him medicine, and since Guo Momo was already close with Know Summer before, she said PingAn''s improvement was thanks to the medicine. Pei Yong did not suspect or ask further.


    Pei Yongughed and picked up PingAn, "Alright, let''s eat too. PingAn needs to eat more today to grow bigger. Eat more and you''ll grow faster, and be a grown up in no time."


    PingAn nodded heavily, "Grandpa, eat."


    "Good, grandpa will eat too."


    Pei JianGuo pushed his cart in to see them eating. Heughed and walked over, ruffling PingAn''s head, "PingAn, have you been good at grandpa''s these past few days?"


    PingAn turned his head to dodge his touch and continued scooping his food with a spoon.


    The smile left Pei Yong''s face and he made no gesture to invite Pei JianGuo to join them for the meal, instead asking directly, "What are you doing here?"


    "Dad, I''m your son. Even if I''ve disappointed you in some ways, you can''t just disown me, can you?" Pei JianGuo knew he had let people down, so he spoke without justification, "And I came today to see you and PingAn. I even brought treats for PingAn."


    He knew trying to curry favor with Pei Yong was useless, so he had to go through the child instead.


    Pei JianGuo ostentatiously offered the peach cakes he brought to PingAn, but it did not move him at all.


    Over the past few days, grandpa had bought him many tasty snacks, sixth uncle had shared his own snacks, and the cherries at third auntie''s ce were ripe too. He had nock of things to eat.


    Besides, the cherry trees mom had nted before were all fruiting. Grandpa said after they finished picking all the fruit, the trees would be moved back to their yard and rented at home. That way, he could be the first to eat them every year when the cherries ripened.


    "This child is still wary of me," Pei JianGuo said awkwardly when PingAn clearly snubbed him.


    Neither grandfather nor grandson paid him any mind.


    "Oh right, dad, there''s something else I want to tell you," Pei JianGuo lowered his head, "Mom introduced a match for me. Let me know when you have time to meet her. If we''repatible, we''ll go register our marriage."


    "Your own matters don''t need reporting to me," Pei Yong paused briefly before replying indifferently, "It''s your marriage, as long as you''re satisfied, my opinion doesn''t matter."


    "Dad, do you have to be like this?" Even someone as dense as Pei JianGuo could hear the detachment in his tone, "I know I was wrong already. The biggest problem between me and Guo Momo was that mom didn''t like her. I want to have a good marriage, so I need to marry someone mother will be satisfied with. Dad, my life is hard enough already, can''t you try to understand me a bit?"


    In Pei JianGuo''s mind, he didn''t even have the right to choose a woman he liked, because if his mother didn''t like her, she would keep sabotaging things between them.


    That was also why Guo Momo chose to leave him in the end.


    Upon hearing his words, Pei Yong was instantly furious, "Pei JianGuo, you''re not a child anymore, can you grow some sense? If your life is hard, your mother had her reasons, but have you thought about whether you had any fault? Also, if you n to marry some girl with this kind of thinking, as your father I advise you - it''d be better not to trifle with the girl. Please just let her off!"

 Chapter 337: Pull It Up the Street

    <h4>Chapter 337</h4>


    Pei JianGuo thought that he would findfort from his father Pei Yong for his dissatisfaction. After all, they were both oppressed by Wang Yue, so he should best understand his helplessness. But he did not expect to receive such deprecation, which he could not ept for a while.


    After Pei JianGuo left, Pei Yong also lost his appetite. His whole face was full of worry. PingAn seemed to feel his low spirit. The confused boy also put down his spoon andfortingly put his little hand on the back of his hand.


    Pei Yong looked up and nced at his grandson who was desperately trying to convey kindness to him. His heart was somehowforted. It was his negligence that did not teach his son well, harming others and himself. Now he could only put all his thoughts on his grandson, raise his grandson well, and not let him be influenced by that unreliable father.


    Yes, Pei Yong''s only feeling towards Pei JianGuo now was that he was afraid that his too much appearance would affect his grandson''s growth.


    Knowing Pei Yong''s attitude, Wang Yue was afraid that he would mess up the marriage again without distinguishing priorities. She simply let Pei JianGuo take the bride home to get the certificate directly.


    It was not until the next day when they came to pay respects to their elders that Zhi Xia knew about this.


    He really knew how to choose the time. Today just happened to be Sunday, and she wanted to sneak out but had no reason.


    Pei JianGuo''s second wife was called Lu Keqin, a fair girl who was not inferior to Guo Momo in appearance, but the girl looked a little arrogant, the kind of child who had been pampered for a long time.


    Anyway, from Zhi Xia��s point of view, she did not look optimistically on them.


    It was not that she was looking forward to their misfortune, it was just that, how to say, both were used to being coaxed, and when they collided with each other, neither would coax anyone. After the initial passion passed, in the long run, all kinds of contradictions would emerge.


    Zhi Xia had just thought so when Zhang sister ran back and said, "Zhi Xia, JianGuo and his wife are tugging and pulling each other at the corner, attracting many onlookers. Oh my, it��s so embarrassing."


    Zhi Xia didn��t even ask the reason. She directly said, "Sister Zhang, close the door first."


    Sister Zhang was stunned at first, then understood what Zhi Xia meant. She hesitated for a moment, then turned around to close the door.


    For the child she saw grown up, she had to distinguish between the important and the unimportant now.


    What she was holding now was Zhi Xia''s sry, not Old Pei''s, let alone the main room.


    No matter what Lu Keqin''s personality was like, with the precedent of Guo Momo, Zhi Xia did not want to get involved with them anymore.


    But this was just thinking, after all, she was still holding the title of Pei JianGuo��s auntie. On holidays, it was inevitable that there would be opportunities to interact.


    But for now, it did not prevent her from keeping herself out of trouble.


    If someone came to inquire, she would say that she was taking a nap with the children and did not know what was going on outside.


    She could hide, but Pei Yong could not avoid it.


    The cause of the incident was that Pei Yong did not keep meals at home, so Lu Keqin felt that he looked down on her. From the time she went out, she had been muttering bad words in Pei JianGuo''s ears, and Pei JianGuo got annoyed and started fighting, and neither of them was the kind to give in.


    Pei JianGuo wanted to leave, but Lu Keqin didn''t let him go, so they started tugging and pulling each other on the road.


    Pei Yong still could not avoid it. He took the two back home and first exined to Lu Keqin, "Little Lu, don''t think too much. There are reasons for not keeping meals for you. You see, usually it''s just me and PingAn, and we just casually make do with meals. I''m not good at cooking. It wouldn''t be nice to make you cook for your first visit. You see..."


    He was not really unable to cook. In fact, Pei Yong''s cooking skills were quite decent. He just wanted to keep to himself.


    For his son Pei JianGuo, he was not just extremely disappointed, he no longer had any expectations of him.


    He had already given up his military career toe back and help raise PingAn. He thought he had fulfilled his responsibilities, and from now on, however Pei JianGuo would be, it would be entirely his own doing, and Pei Yong didn''t want to keep cleaning up the mess behind him.


    Wang Yue''s concern was not unreasonable. If he had seen Lu Keqin before they got the license, he would have had to advise her that marriage was a big deal and could not be rash but had to be approached carefully.


    It was a pity that they already got the license, and it was toote to say these things now. Why bother stirring up family discord again!


    After thinking it over, Lu Keqin realized this was the truth.


    She was a little spoiled, but she was not an unreasonable person. If things had been exined clearly to her at the beginning, how could that embarrassing scene of tugging and pulling outside have happened?


    "Dad, I was also wrong about this. I should have been more considerate. Please don''t me me." Although she said this, there were still some grievances in her heart.


    Her father-inw, a grown man, could use not being able to cook as an excuse, but Pei JianGuo��s younger aunt knew the situation here, yet did not say toe over for a meal, without even a little expression, which made her feel a little upset.


    She was the new daughter-inw who had just entered the door, and had suffered such a frustration right aftering in. Who could stand it!


    It could be seen that the rtionship between the two families was not as good as Pei JianGuo said.


    After appeasing Lu Keqin, Pei Yong called Pei JianGuo to the room and gave him another lesson, teaching him husband and wife rtions, telling him to be more patient and considerate of his wife''s feelings.


    Whether he remembered it or not, Pei Yong had taught everything he should. He really did his best.


    In the living room, PingAn and Lu Keqin stared at each other.


    Lu Keqin already knew about Pei JianGuo��s mute son. Anyway, he was a mute boy. She didn''t take it to heart. This child was now living with his grandfather. After she and Pei JianGuo had their own children, this child would naturally no longer matter.


    Therefore, she didn''t even bother to pretend,pletely ignoring PingAn''s existence.


    PingAn also acted as if he didn''t see Lu Keqin and quietly stood aside waiting for his grandfather toe out.


    Although the man told him to call the woman in front of him mother, he didn''t want to call her that. He had his own mother. His grandfather didn''t say let him call someone else mother either, so he would pretend he didn''t hear it.


    The four-year-old PingAn still adhered to the idea in his heart that his mother just had something to do temporarily and could note to pick him up. As long as he obediently waited, he would eventually wait for her toe back.


    And before that, he had to let his mother rest assured and listen to his grandfather and stepmother well, study hard. When his mother came back, he would be a strong little man who could protect her and no longer be bullied by bad women.


    As the weather got hotter, summer vacation came quietly.


    The factory building on Wu Lei''s side waspleted, everything was ready, all formalities had beenpleted, money had also been spent seven or eight parts, and now it was just waiting for the machines to enter and then start recruiting.


    Deep in the night, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing gathered in the space. She asked his opinion, "I want to go to Shenzhen for a while. I can only leave the children to my father-inw and mother-inw. Then give Sister Zhang a few more dors in sry these two months, and ask her to help pay more attention at home. What do you think?"


    Sister Zhang had stayed in the Pei family for a long time and had seen Pei JianGuo grow up. Her character and other aspects were quite trustworthy.

 Chapter 338: Follow to keep a close eye.

    <h4>Chapter 338</h4>


    ��Are you going alone?�� Pei Jing frowned, first considering her safety issues.


    ��Big Brother Wu wanted Xiaohua to go over too, but I don��t know what his opinion is. His original snack stand was recently changed to a storefront, and he''s doing a raging business. From his momentum, it seems he has put all his heart into the snack shop."


    Wu Xiaohua was still young after all. With the addition of Liu Xuan, the business was getting better and better. Originally, Liu Xuan only intended to learn the craft, but now he was working together with Wu Xiaohua.


    "Why don''t I take you there? It''s only a few days round trip, it can be arranged well. As for the kids, don''t worry, it''s vacation anyway, it''s a good chance for them toe to the troops for a while and train." Pei Jing suggested.


    Zhi Xia''s eyes lit up, "No need to specially take me there. The spaces can connect with each other anyway. If there��s danger I can just summon you. And I can hide in there too, so the danger is not high. As for the kids, is it really okay for them to go to your ce?"


    Zhi Xia didn��t specifically understand, but she also knew that the discipline of the special forces was much higher than that of the regr troops, and there were a lot of restrictions too.


    "There''s definitely no problem, but these little guys will probably have to suffer a bit. Little Sixth is too young too. Someone still needs to be home with him."


    Zhi Xia discussed it with Pei Jing, asked the children��s opinion again, and Chenye and the triplets were fine with it. Little Sixth wanted to go but he was too young and had to stay at home, which made him throw a tantrum.


    It was only when Zhi Xia promised to take him to Shen City to see the sea that he finally calmed down.


    Wanqing knew there was a sea in Shen City. She didn��t want to go with her brother to the barracks either, insisting on going with Zhi Xia.


    For Zhi Xia it was even simpler. Her daughter was willing to go with her to take care of her brother, which would make her feel more at ease too. Why wouldn��t she be willing?


    The other kids wanted to go too when they heard there was a sea, but that was out of the question. Yue Ya had to be taken of course. With too many children it would be too chaotic and hard to manage. She was going to do business, not vacationing.


    She considered the other kids wanting to see the sea too, and figured there would be chances in the future.


    Zhi Xia asked Wu Xiaohua when she had time. As she had guessed, the kid now had his whole mind set on expanding his small eatery, and waspletely unwilling to go along.


    When briefing Grandpa on the family matters, he absolutely refused to let her set out with three children.


    Even when Liu Ling brought Wen Qing to the barracks, there was always someone specially taking leave to escort them. Let alone Zhi Xia bringing two kids.


    Luckily An Zhiren and his wife were back from Jing City with their child. So the task was handed to him.


    Zheng Suchun had failed to get into Jing University twice. An Jingzhi had advised her that she could just take the exam for Jin City University instead, which was at least closer to home.


    But she was unwilling to give up the chance of university even if it meant separating from her second brother.


    As Grandma said it best, ��It��s not that she has to get into Jing University no matter what. She just doesn��t feel assured with her second brother alone there. Jing University has great schrs and beauties everywhere. What if he finds another girl there and doesn��t want her anymore? She will have nowhere to cry then. She has to watch him closely.��


    After all, no matter her education or family background, there was a huge gap between her and An Zhiren. It was understandable for her to worry like this.


    Just like Liu Ling��she and her husband lived apart more than together since marrying, yet there seemed no concern from her at all.


    On the day of departure, Sister Zhang came early to help pack and made pancakes for their trip.


    It was too hot to make too much. There was only enough for one meal. They��d have to buy more on the train.


    Before they left, Sister Zhang urged them, ��Zhi Xia, call Grandpa before youe back to let Sister Zhou tell me, so I can tidy up the house and make itfortable when you return.��


    ��Alright,�� Zhi Xia smiled generously. ��Sister Zhang, the house is in your hands. We��ll bring you gifts when wee back.��


    ��Good, I��ll be waiting then,�� Sister Zhang alsoughed gleefully.


    That was how people interacted with each other. You��re good to me and I��m good to you. Once one side doesn��t hold up their end, the other can��t either.


    Sister Zhang also carried her things home, because Zhi Xia wouldn��t be back for one or two months. The rest of the rice, noodles, vegetables and some foods that couldn��t be stored long-term were all taken back by her.


    Plus, this was paid leave for two months. It would be hard to find such good employers who understood you so well.


    At her door, she ran into someone she didn��t get along with. ��Well, well, big bags and small bags. Don��t tell me you stole something from someone��s house again?��


    In their neighborhood Sister Zhang was quite a figure too. Everyone knew that a few years ago she had stolen someone��s handkerchief and brazenly made her child wear it out, causing her to lose her job over that petty offense.


    Everyone thought she would never recover. But against all odds, the old employer invited her back at that critical time, even saying it was because she was responsible and took good care of the family. It allowed her to make a beautifuleback all at once.


    At the same time, it also made people suspicious again about her stealing things in the past. If her hands were really not clean, would the family speciallye to her house to ask her back?


    If it had happened when she was falsely used, Sister Zhang wouldn��t have dared to talk back. But now with confidence, she immediately scolded, ��Go fart somewhere else! I would never steal anything when I''m this good at my job! Open your dog eyes wide and see clearly! These are rewards from good employers because I do well. Not like you--you''d stick anything fished out of cesspools in your mouth without fear of choking yourself to death...��


    On the train, Little Sixth and Yue Ya immediately stered themselves on the windows, extremely excited.


    Wanqing looked at them disdainfully, ��No experience."


    Little Sixth red at his sister, ��I��m not inexperienced! This is my first time on a train. You��re so awesome, have you been on one before?��


    ��Of course, there was no you yet at that time. Little Three, Little Four, Little Five was still in Mom��s tummy. Big brother and I went on trains with Daddy and Mommy...��


    Looking at them bickering, Zhi Xia and An Zhiren smiled helplessly next to them.


    ��Little sister, is college life fun?�� An Zhiren assumed Zhi Xia must like or crave school a lot, which was why she secretly studied so much alone.


    ��It��s great,�� Zhi Xia smiled and answered. At least she liked her current life very much.


    Just like an ordinary person, doing her own things steadily everyday. Kids ying around her knees.


    Others might feel she was very tired, but with her space she really wasn��t. She actually felt extremely lucky to have her current family and cute children.

 Chapter 339: When I make money, I also raise my daughter into a princess.

    <h4>Chapter 339</h4>


    "How about Second Brother, huh?" ZhiXia asked him.


    "Still the same, studying during normal times, also took up some foreignnguage sses, nothing much going on, just going back home to y with the kids when free." An Zhiren''s life didn''t have many big ups and downs, it was rather stable.


    "Didn''t Second Brother fight for that chance to study abroad?"


    "There''s still your sister-inw and the kids. Once gone, it would be for a few years, leaving them mother and child in the country wouldn''t be good either, it''s better to give the opportunity to someone more suitable." He felt he was not young anymore, no need to go through all that trouble.


    "When Third Brother left, he said it was for a year of advanced studies, he should be able toe back this year right?"


    An ZhiXian and An Zhiren were closest, and international calls were also rtively hard to make, so they didn''t contact each other frequently.


    "He hasn''t said anything, but he should be able toe back." An Zhiren also wasn''t very certain.


    The siblings chatted idly like this, the three little ones gradually losing their initial enthusiasm, bing drowsy.


    ZhiXia and An Zhiren took turns sleeping, after all it was chaotic on the train, they were really afraid the kids would get taken away if the adults fell asleep.


    They arrived in Shenzhen at noon, the train station was filled with peopleing and going, at a nce it was all heads.


    It took great effort just to tug the children out, then they heard Hu Zhou calling out, "Yue Ya...Sister An, over here..."


    With his height in the packed crowd, he wasn''t very tall, only able to jump up and down waving his hands this way.


    Making use of his height advantage, An Zhiren stood tall in the flock of chickens, looking into the distance, asking ZhiXia, "Do you see the waving person up ahead, isn''t that Hu Zhou?"


    He had seen Hu Zhou once several years ago, at that time he was still a teenager, very different from how he looked now.


    ZhiXia looked along where he was pointing, but her view was blocked by people in front, "I can''t see either, let''s go take a look."


    The two of them dragged three children, desperately squeezing that way, Hu Zhou also squeezing over here.


    "Yue Ya, my dear daughter, have you missed Dad?" Hu Zhou first took Yue Ya from ZhiXia''s arms, and after so many months, it was the first time since his daughter was born that they had been separated for so long.


    Yue Ya was clearly somewhat unfamiliar with Hu Zhou, looking at ZhiXia helplessly.


    ZhiXia hurriedly patted her back reassuringly, "Yue Ya, this is your dad, we talk on the phone all the time, remember?"


    Yue Ya turned and smiled at him, just not saying anything yet.


    Hu Zhou instantly felt a little heartache, still forcing himself to stay calm saying to ZhiXia: "Sister An, Second Brother, let''s go, let''s go to our ce first."


    But An Zhiren didn''t move, "You guys go first, I''ll head back, next train isn''t far off."


    "Second Brother, since you came all this way, stay a few more days, when going back bring some gifts for sister-inw and the kids, can''t have made the trip for nothing." ZhiXia persuaded him.


    An Zhiren''s resolve to go back didn''t seem so firm either, hesitatingly nodding his head, "Fine then, just...giving Little Hu extra trouble."


    "Psh, what trouble, Sister An is the big boss at our factory, as long as you don''t mind simple amodations then it''s fine." Hu Zhou led the way up front, saying "Don''t be fooled by appearances, in just this half year, development here was like riding a rocket, when I came with Brother Wu, it was all empty lots and ponds around here, now it''s all been developed into factories, further in, food, drink, entertainment, it''s all there. Second Brother stay a few more days, when we have time we''ll go to the beach, seafood here is so fatty... "


    Carrying Yue Ya, Hu Zhou brought them to the bus station, after a half hour bus ride, they arrived.


    The factory housing in front of them was built pretty big, a total of two floors, to save on costs, Hu Zhou and Wu Lei had been living inside the factory housing.


    They went in as Wu Lei was cleaning inside.


    The factory had just finished construction recently, with construction debris inside not yet cleaned up.


    An Zhiren walked around inside, then came out asking them, "You built the factory so big, will you be able to use it all?"


    He had seen a thing or two, ces that made him feel were big were absolutely not small.


    Building the factory was originally Wu Lei''s decision, although he had consulted with ZhiXia, now it was his turn to exin, "I was thinking, originally this plot ofnd wasn''t small, and took quite a bit of money, at first I nned to sell half, but with no one here, inevitably it would get lowballed, so I thought, rather than selling cheap to others, why not go big, build the factory first, we use part of it, rent out what we can''t use fully, some people already came asking the other day, just haven''t settled on rent yet, based on current prices I calcted,nd prices here are skyrocketing, renting is definitely stronger than selling."


    It was just an empty lot, nothing much worth looking over in detail.


    And after such a long time on the train, they were exhausted, now urgently wanting to find a ce to rest.


    Wu Lei had arranged everything long before ZhiXia decided toe.


    Yue Ya and Little Sixth could stay here and sleep with them, with ZhiXia bringing Wanqing it wasn''t appropriate for them to squeeze in with the men, and outsiders seeing wouldn''t be proper either, but her going to the homestay inn, thedy owner there was acquainted with them, no need to worry about mistreatment.


    But now there was the extra person An Zhiren, requiring rearrangement.


    Luckily the homestay inn had a room, An Zhiren bringing Little Sixth could get a room.


    Only when leaving, Yue Ya unexpectedly didn''t want to stay with Hu Zhou, insisting on staring at Wanqing, making Hu Zhou both pained and gratified.


    Pain that his daughter was no longer close with him, gratification that from Yue Ya clinging to ZhiXia and Wanqing, she clearly hadn''t suffered these months, instead living very well.


    The clothes she wore were also brand new, her braided hair though messed up on the train, still showed the intricacy, the fine wrists wearing a strand of pearls, the skin on her face no longer tanned, but fair and tender.


    Clearly, much better than when he raised her himself.


    "Yue Ya was separated from you for too long, some unfamiliarity is normal, she''ll be familiar after a few days." ZhiXia could onlyfort Hu Zhou this way.


    "I know, thank you Sister An for taking care of Yue Ya this time." Hu Zhou of course understood, everything he did was for his daughter to have a good life, at minimum, the child was better off than staying by his side, nothing toin about.


    When he earned money, he could raise his daughter like a little princess, how great would that be.


    The homestay inn wasn''t far, nearby there was a hotel under construction, supposedly to be dozens of floors high, but for now only the foundation wasid, estimated that the fastest it could be built was next year.

 Chapter 340: Successfully put into Production

    <h4>Chapter 340</h4>


    The sun had juste up when Little Sixth started moring to go out and y, because he still remembered Mom saying she''d take them to see the ocean when they arrived.


    Wanqing was very helpless. "All you can think about is ying. You haven''t even had breakfast yet. Aren''t you hungry?"


    "Not hungry, not hungry..." Little Sixth happily ran circles around Wanqing. "I already promised PingAn I''d bring him back seashells and shells when I got home..."


    "You''ve still got to eat breakfast first before you can go." Wanqing didn''t refuse him. After all, Second Brother was still here, and the machinery wasn''t urgent, otherwise Second Brother would have noticed something with how clever he was.


    Although Wu Lei was equally clever, both he and Hu Zhou thought they were using their rtionship with the An family. In reality, whether she used it or not, An Zhiren definitely knew.


    Besides, the An family''s glory days were all decades ago now. Wanqing hadn''t grown up in the An family either, so she''d never been in contact with any of that.


    But An Zhiren smiled gently, "Go take care of your things if you need to. I''ll take the three kids out for a look around and to see the sights. It won''t be a wasted trip all this way."


    "I don''t have anything urgent. With Hu Zhou and Brother Wu here, I can''t help much anyway. Let''s just go out and have fun together." Wanqing said.


    Wanqing unhurriedly followed them out to y for a day, going around town and to the seaside.


    The weather was too hot to bring seafood back, so they could only buy some dried goods like sea cucumber and abalone. Little Sixth bought several conch shell horns that made a whining sound when blown into, with a string to wear around his neck.


    Worried that PingAn wouldn''t be able to wait, he repeatedly told An Zhiren to bring the conch shell horn back for him to give to PingAn.


    Only after obtaining An Zhiren''s promise did Little Sixth feel reassured enough to go y.


    By the time they returned to their motel, everyone was exhausted.


    An Zhiren tentatively asked her, "Little Sixth and the JianGuo kid seem to get along well. Even out here, he still thinks about him."


    The foolish things Pei JianGuo had done were notorious even in the capital.


    That was also why, despite their families being so close and around the same age, he and his brothers had never been close to Pei JianGuo.


    Everyone said you could tell when a child was three years old. Pei JianGuo had been like this since he was little, liking to be pampered and doted on. Even though he was inferior to others, he still insisted on lording it over them.


    An''s Eldest was the same age as Pei Jing, Second and Third were about the same as Pei JianGuo. They were like oil and water, only maintaining appearances. As for Fourth Brother, he had a terrible temper and could never get along with this sort of person.


    Wanqing sighed and said, "They''re around the same age. Back when Guo Momo was around, she was always bringing PingAn over to y. He called Little Sixth ''Uncle,'' so Little Sixth, with his somewhat arrogant personality, really put himself in the position of an elder and looked after PingAn like a child."


    What she was thinking was, this was probably fate too.


    In this life, Little Sixth was Pei Chenyou, no longer Pei Yuhao, and he had also escaped Pei Yuhao''s fate. But PingAn had still entered the cycle of the previous life, taking Pei Yuhao''s ce.


    Wanqing had never rejected Little Sixth getting close with PingAn. She probably felt a bit of pity for the child.


    An Zhiren didn''t say anything more. Fortunately the boy was with Pei Yongzhu now. With his guidance, hopefully he wouldn''t develop a personality like Pei JianGuo''s and thereby also corrupt Little Sixth.


    An Zhiren stayed here for two days. They went out to y together the first day, and the second day he went out wandering alone.


    Yue Ya had been taken away by Hu Zhou. Little Sixth was tired yesterday, so no matter what, he refused to get out of bed today. Wanqing could only leave him in the space and take Wanqing out.


    "Friend, look, thetest electronic watches from overseas. Great prices, superb quality, very suitable for buying in bulk and reselling yourself..."


    Wanqing had encountered this sort of thing with Wanqing many times now.


    The goods were good goods, but things like this were mostly smuggled in, so best not to get involved.


    The open policy had just started; reviews weren''t very strict yet. Plus, Shenzhen was aggressively recruiting foreign investment, so smuggled goods avoiding tariffs weren''t umon.


    At this time, there were many people getting rich off of these kinds of goods, as long as you didn''t get caught. If you were caught, you''d be eating prison food.


    Wanqing was just wandering around killing time with Wanqing, but unbeknownst to them, not long after they left, a brother and sister struck up a conversation with the electronics seller.


    After another two days, Wanqing found a remote warehouse through locals and rented it for three days for 20 yuan.


    20 yuan was still arge expenditure in Jincheng, but in the bustling Shenzhen of today, it really wasn''t much. She was able to rent it smoothly because of the remote location.


    She had long sincemissioned the machinery from the aquaculture magnate. Based on the era''s level of development, they weren''t fully automated machines. Many procedures still required manpower to operate.


    Butpared to machinery purchased from overseas, they were absolutely just as good, if not better.


    Also, afraid they wouldn''t be able to find engineers, the machinery came disassembled in batches. They just needed to follow diagrams for simple reassembly and connection for use.


    After getting this done, Wanqing notified Wu Lei''s side toe move the machinery.


    The nt had long since been prepared; the machinery was the only thing without progress. Although Wanqing kept saying not to worry, as the person overseeing everything, how could Wu Lei not worry?


    Although he only held 5% of the shares, he had been the most anxious person froming here until now. This was also his only chance to turn things around, not even Hu Zhou was as anxious as him.


    Seeing the machinery right before his eyes, he was overjoyed.


    Wanqing hadn''t been idle either. The skincare form used pure herbal ingredients. Although she had only simply made a few bottles before, the aquaculture magnate had already begun mass production.


    The form was what she had used to pay for the machinery.


    Batch production was naturally inferior in effectpared to individual handmade, but use would still produce significant obvious results.


    The first batch of necessary nts had long since been prepared in her space, and had been moved into the nt along with the machinery.


    Next, everyone was busy.


    Wanqing took Little Sixth, Yue Ya, and PingAn. Wu Lei and Hu Zhou were busy with the machinery and hiring workers. Wanqing designed packaging and customization for the skincare products.


    The product positioning was high-end skincare, so the packaging couldn''t be random. It had to be beautiful and impressive, making people want to buy it as soon as they saw it. There was also naming the skincare products.


    It took a full month to get these things on the right track and ensure they could still operate after she left.


    As forter provision of raw materials, Wu Lei and Hu Zhou had long since found suppliers who could take over.


    "Wanqing, look." Wu Lei excitedly brought over the first finished set to hand to Wanqing. "From production until now, we gave a set to each factory worker to try out for half a month. More or less everyone has had some obvious changes. Look at my face, it''s clearly a lot whiter this half month. I dare say none of the stuff on the market now is as good as ours."

 Chapter 341: Quite Satisfied

    <h4>Chapter 341</h4>


    No one could be more excited than Wu Lei. Sinceing here, money had only been flowing out withouting back in. Although he didn''t show it on his face, the pressure he felt mentally could be imagined.


    In any case, the products had finally been manufactured, and the effects were also very significant. As long as they were marketed properly, there was no need to worry about being unable to sell them.


    Everything was within his expectations. Although Su Ying was also very happy, she was far less excited than Wu Lei.


    These were the first batch of products manufactured in their factory. For now there were three types: lotion, milk, and cream. The main benefit promoted was skin whitening.


    Su Ying tried some. Although she couldn''t see the effects yet, it felt very refreshing and moisturizing when applied, especially during this hot summer without any greasy feel.


    "Brother Wu, you and Hu Zhou worked hard over this period. The factory will still rely on you two to operate in the future. Keep up the good work. Although you don''t have much shares this time, there will definitely be more opportunities for you to invest when we expand the factory and open branches in the future."


    Wu Lei was not being polite either. "Okay, you said it, and I''ve made a mental note."


    "Oh yes, the money for the machinery..."


    "130,000 in total. I paid for it first. Let''s wait until the factory starts making profit before paying me back." Su Ying said.


    130,000 was not a high price at all. What he and Hu Zhou had contacted earlier would cost 150,000, and they would have to pay a deposit first to get the machinery delivered. The two of them were also afraid of getting cheated. If they paid the money and the other party ran away, wouldn''t it all go down the drain!


    Moreover, with the total capital of 200,000, 120,000 was spent on thend. They really couldn''t take out that much money anymore.


    "Okay, let''s just make this agreement that the first thing is to pay back your money after we start making profit." As a shareholder, Wu Lei had the final say on the big and small matters in the factory since Su Ying had to go back to Jin Cheng while Hu Zhou knew nothing about these things.


    After half a year in Shenzhen, the tense feeling in his heart finally eased a little.


    Hearing about Wu Xiaohua''s recent situation from Su Ying, to be honest, no matter what Liu Xuan''s personality was like, Wu Lei was grateful to him for Wu Xiaohua''s improvement.


    He had never been a petty person, nitpicking over immediate interests right in front of him.


    In his opinion, no amount of money could buy a capable person. Wu Xiaohua was very smart when she was young. It was purely because she was led astray by him and that woman, which made her be so muddled now.


    If she could really change, no amount of money could buy that.


    "Alright, the holiday is almost over and I have to go back too. Bring me a few sets of the new products, especially more trial kits. I n to take them back to give to people to try to open up the sales channels." Su Ying thought and said, "The overseas market would probably not be easy to tap into. We should focus on the domestic sales first to build up our reputation. The future path would naturally be easier then."


    Considering the current circumstances, domestically it was still an era of shortage for various supplies. It was easy for foreign goods toe in, but there would be some difficulty in exporting their own products out.


    But Su Ying believed in her products. As long as they were effective and could build up their reputation, there would be nock of sales channels.


    The idea for the trial kits was also Su Ying''s. They used small sachet packaging that contained enough product for 7 days, just the right amount of time to better showcase the effects.


    "Alright, we''ve just about finished producing the first batch of products. Let''s get them to make some more trial kits over the next few days. You can take some with you, and I''ll prepare the rest to give out as free gifts at a beauty event, to attract customers..."


    Su Ying couldn''t make it for the trade show here, because An Zhiren had specifically taken the trip to send them over. Wu Lei also understood why, and insisted that she take the three children back instead of letting Hu Zhou send them.


    As a result, the trial kits didn''t need to be mailed either. Hu Zhou could just carry them by hand.


    By the time they returned home, the sky had already darkened. The ce where Hu Zhou lived was probably quite messy from being unupied for so long. It was also inappropriate for him to stay at Su Ying''s ce, so he could only get Hu Zhou to stay temporarily at the storefront of An Zhiren''s shop for now.


    Some fabric for Su Ying was still being stored there.


    Hu Zhou had just left when Xiao Liu and Yue Ya were already drowsy and falling asleep. Wan Qing also closed her eyes and flopped onto the bed. Su Ying was reluctant to ask her to get up again to wash up, so she simply dampened a towel and wiped her clean.


    When it was the two little ones'' turn, they had already fallen deep asleep.


    There was a knock on the door outside. Su Ying hurried to open it, and Old Master, Old Madam, and Su Ying were all standing outside.


    "I knew I heard sounds. This old fe insisted I was hearing things. As soon as we came out, I saw that the padlock on your door was unlocked, so I knew you must be back." Old Madam red at Old Master and asked Su Ying, "Are the children all well? Howe I don''t see theme out?"


    Especially that little rascal Xiao Liu. Usually at the slightest sound he would have run out already to see what was going on. Wan Qing was bing moredylike as she grew up. It was unbelievable that Su Ying used to worry that this little girl was unruly and unfeminine.


    "They were tired and fell asleep indoors." Su Ying quickly moved aside to let them in.


    After entering the house, Old Master asked about the factory situation. She selectively shared some good news without mentioning difficulties. Although there were quite a few small issues, they could all be resolved with some effort, so there was no need to get the elders worried over this.


    Old Madam said worriedly, "I say, girl, Jin Cheng is so big and we know this ce so well, yet you insist on running off to some remote corner to set up your factory. When somethinges up it''ll be hard for us to help out."


    "Granny, don''t worry. Brother Wu and Hu Zhou are trustworthy people. Being far away means they can handle things without me worrying." Su Ying was not insisting on going to that remote area on purpose. Looking at it from a long term perspective, that ce had more promising prospects for future development.


    For now, small scale trade had opened up. In the future there would be more and more people going there to do business. Jin Cheng was good but couldn''tpare with there for the time being.


    "You''re a smart girl anyway." Old Madam said, "I''m old, shouldn''t be worrying anymore. As long as you children are safe and happy then that''s good."


    "That''s right Granny, I brought back gifts for you and my sisters-inw..."


    Su Ying promptly took out the skincare products she brought back. Only Old Madam''s set was different from the others''. This anti-aging wrinkle set was not yet in production at their factory. Instead it was obtained from the aquaculture magnate from a few years ago who had also ventured into the beauty industry. With him zing the trail ahead of them, Su Ying could avoid some pitfalls.


    Old Madam had used it before when Su Ying imed she had personally formted it. Now professionally packaged, it looked even more high-end and ssy.


    "Is this produced in your factory?"


    "Mm-hmm." Su Ying gave an ambiguous answer. "Granny, this set is specially prepared for you. Yours is the only set right now. What''s currently in production is this kind for my fourth sister-inw, more suitable for younger users."


    Su Ying deliberately looked at her usingly. "No wonder your skin looks so good. Turns out you''ve been secretly using the best stuff for yourself."


    What woman doesn''t care about looks? Of course Su Ying was no exception.


    "Of course not. Didn''t I bring some for fourth sister-inw too?" Su Ying still needed to tter and cajole. "And I brought even better stuff for you. Guaranteed that in less than half a month, fourth sister-inw''s skin will be as tender as the membrane under an eggshell. Her husband will be stunned speechless when hees back and sees her next time."


    "Oh stop teasing me." Su Ying said unhappily.

 Chapter 342: The black child running towards her, screaming.

    <h4>Chapter 342</h4>


    "Jiaoyan, is this what you named it?" Su Ying looked at the pink ss bottle in her hand. Just based on its appearance, it already gave people the urge to buy it.


    "Yes," Zhixia nodded. "But there''s also something else I''d like to ask Sister-inw Su''s help with."


    Zhixia didn''t have many friends. And Su Ying''s clients were all either rich or noble. So Zhixia also had the idea to start from this angle.


    Giving it away for free, probably no one would not want it. As long as someone used it, she would not have to worry about them not continuing to use it.


    The two discussed this issue for a long time until Grandma opened her mouth to urge them, "You can talk about this kind of thing after you''ve rested well. You just got home after sitting on the train for so long. Aren''t you tired?"


    Zhixia smiled embarrassedly. She was too excited to feel tired.


    Grandma added, "Even if you''re not tired, your sister-inw still needs to rest. She''s almost a mother again."


    "Pregnant?" Zhixia looked at Su Ying in surprise, "How far along is she?"


    "Your fourth brother came back two months ago, so how long do you think?" Grandma asked her helplessly.


    "Oh, I was just too excited, so my mind went nk," Zhixia went over and hugged Grandma''s arm. "Ever since Sister-inw entered the door, I''ve lost favor. It looks like I''ll have even less status from now on."


    "You girl,peting with your sister-inw for favor." Grandma helpless poked her forehead.


    Su Ying also said, "Don''t worry. You''re still the most cherished good girl in Grandma''s heart. No one can rece you."


    She hadn''t noticed Grandma show particr favor to anyone even though Big Brother and Second Brother''s families had all given birth to daughters.


    Of course, this was not an issue about valuing sons over daughters. Even if she valued grandsons more, it would be the same.


    "By the way, there''s something I haven''t asked yet. Your sister-inw is now pregnant. Will this thing have any negative effects?" Grandma definitely trusted the things Zhixia gave her. She had been eating the ginseng nourishing pills from her for years. Her previous lower back pains and breathing difficulties were gone. Now the two elders were more robust than other peers in the area. In recent years, they hadn''t even caught a cold.


    It was a pity that Old Pei and Mrs. Zhou didn''t have such fortune. People so old still couldn''t let go.


    Old Pei was brooding in his heart; Mrs. Zhou fell. If not for those idents, they probably could have lived to this day.


    She and the old man were almost eighty. She didn''t know how many more years they had.


    Now Grandma had nothing else to worry about and just waited for her fourth son''s child to be born and her third son to marry. Then she could die with her eyes closed.


    Of course, Zhixia didn''t know Grandma''s inner thoughts. She smiled and said, "You can rest assured about this. Even pregnant women can use it. It''s all nt extracts, so it doesn''t hurt the body and can even nourish the body."


    "That''s good. It''s gettingte. You should pack up and sleep too. We''ll go back to sleep as well," Grandma wanted to ask Zhixia if she had eaten but then thought of her own cooking skills. If she hadn''t eaten, Grandma couldn''t help anyway, so she kept her mouth shut.


    Grandpa followed them out the door carrying a bag of gifts Zhixia had brought them.


    The next day, Pei Jing also brought Chenye and the triplets back.


    As soon as they entered the door, the four dark children cried out and rushed towards her.


    Zhixia stared wide-eyed, almost unable to look at the children. Dark and thin, their big bright eyes stood out even more.


    "Mom, I missed you so much..."


    She was surrounded by the children. Looking at the children around her and then at Pei approaching, she seemed a bit helpless.


    Xiao Liuyi pped his hands by the door andughed loudly. "Brothers have all been tanned ck. Haha...Too funny..."


    Chenye no longerpeted with his younger brothers for Mom''s attention. Instead, he turned and walked towards Xiao Liuyi.


    Xiao Liuyi was still vignt and instantly felt the pressure from their bloodline. He turned to escape into the room.


    But Chenye''s nearly two months of training were not for nothing. He dashed over before Xiao Liuyi could open the door, grabbed him, and dragged him out. "Pei Chengyou, you still have the nerve tough at us? Do you know how your brothers have spent thest two months?"


    Although they didn''t have to train together, Dad had stipted training ns for each of them that they had to strictlyplete every day.


    Usually at home they could act cute, but in the troops, even that privilege was taken away.


    At the same time, they also witnessed another side of Pei Jing besides his gentleness and care: serious, with nock of intimidation. Even Uncle Four who was usually so arrogant was obedient to him.


    Although Uncle Four wouldn''t admit it, he saw it.


    "A real man shouldn''t develop the bad habit of tattling after just bearing some bitterness," Pei Jing wasn''t much tanner. He had always maintained a rtively healthyplexion, only asionally bing thinner from poor diet.


    Chenye instantly kept quiet. He happily pounced next to Zhixia. "Mom, did you bring us any gifts from your trip? With neither you nor Sister Zhang around these past days, we got so skinny missing your home cooking. We especially want to eat the feast Mom makes."


    Pei Jing was also pulled around by his shy daughter and little son telling him about what they did and saw and yed on this trip.


    The couple were surrounded on both sides without a chance for intimate words. They could only gaze at each other from afar with a smile.


    Sister Zhang rushed in and immediatelyined to Zhixia, "I told you to give me a heads up beforeing back so I could tidy up the house a bit: air out the quilts and whatnot so you''d befortable when you got back to sleep. Luckily I still came by to clean every few days, so the house isn''t too messy."


    The past couple days Zhixia had been upied by the children asking what gifts she brought back for each person. She really did forget to let Sister Zhang know about their return.


    Hearing Sister Zhang''sint, she quickly changed the subject, "Sister Zhang, you''ve already tidied up very nicely. I can still smell the sunlight scent on the quilts. You worked hard this whole time; we brought back lots of gifts for you with some local specialties from the beach. Have Wanqing take you to check them out."


    "Of course. Even with you gone, I couldn''t just take money for nothing. I still came by every few days to see things and air out the quilts. I was just worried you''d forget to mentioning back, and you see, my concern wasn''t unreasonable." No one dislikes being praised, plus there were gifts to collect. Sister Zhang instantly beamed.


    She actually didn''t want to take wages the past couple months and considered it a holiday for herself.


    But Zhixia didn''t agree and even said the family couldn''t function without her, so even if she took a vacation she''d be on paid leave; otherwise, Zhixia wouldn''t feel right.

 Chapter 343: Things so long ago, Start thinking now

    <h4>Chapter 343</h4>


    After all, since she was going to leave, she could not let Sister Zhang bear the consequences of not getting paid. Know Xia was very clear about this in her heart.


    Besides, one had to live by their conscience. From when she and her son came back to when she gave birth to these children, even if it was for the sake of the wages, Sister Zhang had not spared any effort to help wholeheartedly.


    After living together for a few years, there was really no difference from rtives.


    She had never made any mistakes in taking care of the children, which allowed Know Xia to worry much less. If Sister Zhang was not here and another person came instead to take care of the group of children, she really could not rest assured to leave them to an outsider.


    After calming the few little monsters first, Pei Jing quietly pulled Know Xia into the room.


    Seeing this scene, Sister Zhang secretly smiled and also helped to send the children away.


    Inside the room, Know Xia asked him, "Tell me the truth, aren''t you feeling guilty?"


    "Me?" Pei Jing was confused for a moment first but soon started smiling uncontrobly. "Why would I feel guilty? What is that little brain of yours thinking about?"


    "Otherwise, why did you stop Chenye from telling me something just now. Don''t think I can''t see it." Know Xia let go of his hand and sat sulkingly on the edge of the bed.


    Pei Jing smiled and sat next to her to exin, "I was afraid Chenye would tell on the training I made them go through this past month. How could boys not suffer a little hardship. I was worried that you would soften once you heard about it."


    He also nned to take the children over to toughen up more when he had time in the future, lest they all grow up to be spoiled.


    "Then tell me about the training you made them go through," she was actually quite curious. She had not dared to ask before, fearing touching on some sensitive topics. But aspects that even the children were exposed to should not count as any secret.


    After staying in the room for a while, talking about recent happenings, they finally opened the door and went out.


    Sister Zhang asked them, "Are you two eating here or going to An house today? I heard that Zhi Xian came back a while ago. Has the old madam told you?"


    "My third brother is back?" This was news to Know Xia. She supposed old madam forgot to inform her yesterday due to the tight schedule.


    Just as she was thinking, she saw the old mastering in from outside. "I just heard what sounded like little Pei Jing and the kidsing back. Are you still going out today? If you have no other matters, go eat lunch at your dad''s ce. It just so happens that none of you have gotten together since your third brother came back. With school starting again soon, everyone is busy now and it��s not easy to meet up even once.��


    Know Xia looked at Pei Jing and just heard him say, "Shall we get ready to go over now then?"


    It was not until they went out the door that Know Xia found out her fourth brother hade back too. He just went straight to the neighbor��s house aftering back.


    Know Xia teased him, "Sure enough, now that you have a wife I��m not as precious huh, fourth brother. You used to alwayse see me first whenever you came back before."


    "How can youpare it like that." An ZhiAng smiled brightly to reveal a mouth full of white teeth while locking eyes lovingly with Su Ying. "Your fourth sister-inw and baby are my treasures now. You��re not anymore. You��re someone else''s darling now. You don''t need your fourth brother to dote on you anymore."


    "Excuses." Know Xia ruthlessly exposed him.


    Su Ying was utterly charmed by him. The way she looked at him was like her eyes were full of honey too.


    Know Xia could not help but shudder. Her fourth brother really was a sight to behold once he made a move.


    These two were too mushy.


    An house. After going out for a period thening back, the changes in An ZhiXian were quite big indeed.


    One could not exactly say where the change lied. In any case, the feeling was just not the same as before.


    He was quite busy too. ording to him, he had been cooped up in the hospital ever sinceing back. Usually he would even settle lunch directly there. Today he made an exception toe back only because An JingZhi informed him to do so.


    Everyone had not seen each other for a long time so there were naturally many things to talk about.


    Back when he returned a few years ago, a single table was enough for the whole family to eat. Now just the children alone were enough to upy one table. An JingZhi even said during the meal that he nned to get a bigger dining table to ce in the house so that everyone could fit and eat together when everyone came home.


    Know Xia would always keep her head low and not dare to speak during times like these. After all, her family had the most children!


    This made her involuntarily think about her own family''s future situation as well.


    When all the children grew up, married, and had children of their own, then grandchildren marrying and having even more children... Every holiday gathering, the whole yard would be filled with people, like hosting a feast.


    Perhaps it was because imagining that scene seemed too ridiculous that she could not help letting out a sound.


    Liu Ling happened to be sitting next to her on the other side. Seeing her state, she could not help asking, "What happy event made my little sisterugh so merrily by herself?"


    Know Xia was briefly caught unprepared. She lifted her head, "Oh nothing much, I just suddenly thought of something amusing. Right third brother, what does it look like abroad? Is it fun? You were out traveling for so long, did you find me a kindred spirit for a third sister-inw?"


    An ZhiXian grinned brightly, instantly seeing through her attempt to change topics. "Little sister, don''t try to divert this! Big sister asked what you wereughing about."


    Know Xia did not have the nerve to frankly state what she had been thinking about in front of everyone. One round of teasing and topic shifting from the guests soonpletely redirected the subject though.


    It had been a long time since the kids came to An house so they refused to leave after the meal and insisted on staying here to y.


    Know Xia did not want to agree at first. So many rowdy children, leaving Zhou Nan to handle them alone was simply unfair.


    However, Liu Ling and the others had also just returned from their troops. An Zhiren and the rest no longer lived at home so the house had not been this lively for a long while. Zhou Nan told them to let the kids stay and rx for a few days since school would start soon anyway and they would be busy again after.


    Pei Jing got An ZhiAng to drive grandpa and grandma back while he apanied Know Xia on a stroll down the tree-lined path.


    He had changed out of his military uniform into casual wear. When there was no one else around, he quietly pulled at Know Xia��s fingertips. Neither said anything as they slowly walked like that in tranquility.


    Time seemed frozen. It felt like an eternity since theyst shared such an idle moment together.


    It seemed like ever since they returned from Lingjiang city he had been constantly busy with only the recent two years seeing him gradually be more rxed and frequent ining home.


    At the time, he had tried all means to get transferred back in order to spend more time apanying them. However, ideals tended to sh against reality.


    "What were you secretlyughing about by yourself during the meal just now? Won''t you tell me either?" Pei Jing''s voice was gentle as if he was only casually asking a question with no intention to force her to say anything.


    What she dared not tell others, she didn��t need to hide from him since the kids belonged to them both anyway.


    "I was imagining what we would look like when we''re old!" Know Xia turned to face him, smiling radiantly. "Tell me, when we''re both old and gray, and the kids also all have their own families, the scenes when everyone gathers on holidays will be even grander than my parents�� house today right?"


    "Pfft..." Pei Jing could not hold in hisughter. He lovingly raised his hand and pinched her nose. "You sure have wild thoughts imagining something so far into the future already."

 Chapter 344: One in the bright, one in the back.

    <h4>Chapter 344</h4>


    "It''s not that long, look, Chenye and Wanqing are already 9 years old this year. Maybe in a few more years, they will leave us. Time passes quickly. In the blink of an eye, the children have grown up."


    Pei Jing listened to her chatter about some trivial family affairs as they walked hand in hand in the dusk, the setting sun infinitely lengthening their shadows.


    When they returned home, before they entered the yard, they could hear people talking inside the house.


    Knowing that summer secretly frowned and tilted her head towards Pei Jing, "Your nice big nephew is really filial. Every time youe back, hees to visit you with his wife. But his wife this time is someone new. Don''t be too surprisedter."


    Pei Jing already knew about Pei JianGuo''s affairs. Hearing the obvious sarcasm in Know Summer''s tone, he frowned, "Did he upset you again? Or his wife?"


    "I wouldn''t say he upset me, I just don''t want to get too close with small-minded people, in case I can''t keep my wife and they me me for badmouthing them behind their backs." Know Summer said, "Anyway, I don''t dare to meddle with your big nephew''s affairs. You can deal with your Pei family members yourself."


    After Know Summer had finished speaking, she left. Pei Jing watched her cheerful back before walking into the living room.


    "Little uncle, you''re back," Pei JianGuo said, seeing Pei Jinge in, with a smiling face. "I just heard from my dad that you were back, so I came to see you."


    Compared to his cheerful voice, Lu Keqin was obviously much quieter. She stood up politely and called out, "Hello, little uncle. I''m Lu Keqin."


    Although this was Pei JianGuo''s second marriage, it was her first.


    At first, he had coaxed her into getting a marriage certificate with him. They had originally agreed to have a wedding ceremony, but Pei JianGuo kept making excuses, almost exhausting Lu Keqin''s patience.


    Even Wang Yue, who had been kind to her before the registration, started finding fault with her after the registration.


    Lu Keqin was no pushover. She called over several younger brothers from her maternal family, all half grownds, right at that fiery age. They gave Pei JianGuo a good beating before she managed to gain a wedding ceremony for herself.


    But when it came to the wedding day, she discovered that they had simply set up two tables at the government canteen. The only people from the Pei family who showed up were Pei Yong and Pei Sheng.


    Pei JianGuo was always boasting about how good his little uncle was. He said it was understandable that his uncle couldn''t attend their wedding since he wasn''t home. But his little aunt was always at home, yet she only helped to give a mary gift. She didn''t even show her face, let alone give the new daughter-inw the customary money to change how she addressed her inws and gifts when first meeting.


    Lu Keqin''s family circumstances were also pretty good. She didn''t think much about material things, but when chattering girlfriends asked about this, theparisons always made her lose face.


    She had deliberatelye with Pei JianGuo today to take a look at what this "very good" little uncle he always boasted about actually looked like.


    At first nce, she felt an obvious contrast.


    The man before her was tall and straight, still exuding an oppressive aura even in casual clothes that made it obvious he was a very capable man who had been in a high position for a long time.


    She had heard her father praise this man when she first got together with Pei JianGuo. She had even heard during the matchmaking that the Pei family had an outstanding little uncle who was in the military, though she didn''t know what position.


    Although very curious, she didn''t dare ask.


    Pei Jing just nodded slightly, not cing too much attention on Lu Keqin as he turned to speak with Pei JianGuo.


    Feeling bored waiting in the living room, Lu Keqin got up and went out to the yard.


    In the past, when Pei Jing saw Pei JianGuo, he would have exhorted him to live properly. But after so many times and realizing this nephew was truly beyond redemption, he understood that no matter how much he said, it was useless.


    Not only did Know Summer refuse to interact with them, after hearing about what Pei JianGuo had done, Pei Jing also lost patience with him.


    He had wanted to chat briefly then send them away, but unexpectedly, Pei JianGuo suddenly said, "Little uncle, stay home for a while this time since you just got back. It happens that auntie will start school soon, so you can also spend more time with the kids. When you''re free, go over to auntie''s ce more, her ssmates probably don''t even know she''s a married woman."


    These seemingly caring words put Pei Jing on alert. "What exactly are you trying to say?"


    "I didn''t mean anything. Just felt that some people at school might pester auntie. After all, with a face like hers that''s quite...deceptive." But he didn''t dare say thest words.


    He also didn''t know if he offended Know Summer or what, but ever since she returned to the An family, except for still being harmonious the first time they met, afterwards they were simply ipatible.


    Fortunately he hadn''t listened to his mother back then to pursue her...


    Thinking this, Pei JianGuo''s face involuntarily revealed a trace of gloom as he recalled Guo Momo.


    Pei Jing sat in the chair, unconsciously rubbing his fingers. His already stern expression was now covered by ayer of frost, making Pei JianGuo shudder inwardly.


    He had guessed there would be this reaction. His little uncle was such a wise man, yet when it came to Know Summer, he would start defending her without reservation.


    Oh well, he had already reminded what he should. If Pei Jing didn''t listen and got cuckolded in the future, he couldn''t me others.


    Pei JianGuo stood up fearfully. "Little uncle, um...since you just got back and probably went to the An family ce so must be quite tired these days, we won''t disturb you further and will head back first."


    Not hearing Pei Jing call him back even when he had walked out the living room door, Pei JianGuo finally rxed.


    Lu Keqin walked over from the side. She was still in a pretty good mood, just looking at him doubtfully, "What bad thing did you do?"


    His guilty expression was clearly different than usual.


    "What bad thing did I do? Lu Keqin, if you can''t speak properly then don''t speak," he said. After marrying Lu Keqin, he realized how good Guo Momo had been. But it was toote for regrets now, nothing could be salvaged.


    This woman was fierce, overbearing, unreasonable, and her family still had several hateful younger brothers. Last time after he had called the police over a domestic dispute, those brats had only received a talking-to. He had been injured so badly, yet those kids were just criticized a little.


    Pei JianGuo was no match for them. He had wanted Pei Yong to help teach them a lesson since his father was ex-military with formidable skills. But Pei Yong didn''t want to get involved with his embarrassment and directly chased him out with a broom.


    Even the usually fierce Wang Yue was no match for Lu Keqin. These days, Pei Shuangshuang didn''t even dare show her face.


    Lu Keqin had a shameless cousin who had persistently harassed her at workst time, saying misleading things that scared Pei Shuangshuang so much that the sight of Lu Keqin made her react like a mouse seeing a cat now. Pei Shuangshuang exhibited a pathetic cowardliness and bullying the weak.


    But Lu Keqin had only asked that cousin to pester her a little. Yet Pei JianGuo had directly pleaded with her for mercy.


    To avoid her asking further, Pei JianGuo walked quickly ahead.


    Lu Keqin shrugged and lost interest in questioning him.


    If you asked her what the most regretful thing she had done in life was, it would be marrying Pei JianGuo.


    This man was useless despite his appearance. He was aplete coward andzybones who wanted nothing to do with housework. He expected her to cook and doundry like his former wife. But she had never done those things even when living at home since her mother did them. How could she possibly do them herself?


    So Lu Keqin forced Pei JianGuo to move in with Wang Yue. Nevermind anything else, two adults couldn''t even get a hot meal otherwise. She would just eat whatever her mother-inw made. asionally if she was picky, she would go back to her maternal home and have her mother improve the food.


    That house was big and spacious. When Pei JianGuo''s father divorced, he chose to relinquish all property rights so the house was definitely left for Pei JianGuo to live in with his future wife. Why should they be crammed in that small house and let his mother and little sister upy the big house? It would be criminal for them to enjoy it.


    There was also that Pei Shuangshuang who still wanted to subdue her, training her to be like Pei JianGuo''s ex-wife who did everything only to end up divorced.


    She had some nice ideas, but clearly hadn''t considered if Lu Keqin was willing.


    Lu Keqin had only asked that cousin to bother Pei Shuangshuang a little, yet she hadpletely wilted, even pleading with Lu Keqin on Pei JianGuo''s behalf.


    The old saying really came true, evil people naturally encounter their match.


    Hearing Pei JianGuo and the others leave, Know Summer finally came out from the room.


    Walking into the living room, she saw Pei Jing still sitting there, eyes slightly lowered seeming lost in thought.


    "Hey, what are you thinking about?"


    Zhi Xia had just stretched out her hand to wave in front of his eyes when he grabbed her by the wrist.


    "I wasn''t thinking anything, just felt that over the past few years I''ve really wronged you and the kids." He had transferred back in order to spend more time with them, but after transferring here he ended up getting busier instead.


    But it would be better from now on. The special forces team had taken shape, and the first batch of recruits he had brought in could now hold their own. And Pei Jing had also been promoted to highestmander.


    From now on, he would be able to free up more time to apany her and the children.


    Pei Jing exerted some strength and pulled Zhi Xia into his embrace, right against his chest.


    She stretched out a hand and poked his chest, "You don''t seem like such a mncholy person. Did Pei JianGuo say something bad about me?"


    He tugged at the corners of his lips in a helpless smile. He chose to tell her everything that Pei JianGuo had implied without holding anything back.


    Only after he finished did he ask her, "JianGuo is not a good person, but he probably wouldn''t say things without reason. Could it be that Zhao Runze was pestering you again and JianGuo saw it, so he misunderstood?"


    "It''s rare that you have such a clear assessment of Pei JianGuo. But Zhao Runze hasn''t looked for me again, and no one else has ever pestered me either. And I didn''t hide the fact that I''m married at school. I even brought the kids to campus on weekends before, so who knows where he heard such idle talk from."


    Although they didn''t get together because of feelings, the two of them had a tacit understanding now. Other than some things with his troops, they almost never kept anything from each other.


    And that was why they had never had any misunderstandings.


    Pei Jing frowned. Could it really be that Pei JianGuo was lying to sow discord?


    After all, people could change. His understanding of Pei JianGuo was still stuck in a long time ago.


    Just like he would never have imagined that Pei JianGuo would do so many muddled things after getting married.


    "Oh right, it should have been that time Li Fei was looking for me and JianGuo happened to see it. That should have been it. I remember seeing Pei JianGuo taking Lu Keqin shopping at that time too. It was two months ago. Other than that one time, I hardly saw them at all." Zhi Xia suddenly recalled such an incident. She had felt that Pei JianGuo was looking at her strangely back then.


    "And who is Li Fei again?"


    Wang Li and Liu Xuan''s matters concerned their own privacy, so naturally Zhi Xia couldn''t tell Pei Jing about them. Thus, he didn''t know about this person either.


    But now that he asked, there was no need to deliberately hide it either.


    After exining everything clearly, he finally understood.


    Sister Zhang carried dishes into the dining room. "I thought that after seeing them you would ask them to stay for dinner, so I cooked extra food for two more people."


    Zhi Xia immediately went over to help. She smiled, "Maybe they were busy. Let''s just eat more ourselves and leave the leftovers for Da Huang."


    Regarding Da Huang and Yuan Bao''s diet, Sister Zhang felt it was quite a waste. For other people''s pet dogs, giving them some leftover rice or soup was already not bad, yet Da Huang and Yuan Bao ate even better than ordinary humans because the food at home had always been pretty good.


    And that Yuan Bao was also strange. That palm-sized little body could finish so much rice every meal. And she often snacked on melon seeds and pine nuts too, feeding her all the snacks the children at home ate.


    Over time, Sister Zhang just got used to it.


    And it wasn''t her stuff after all. If the masters didn''t mind, she as a nanny couldn''t say much either.


    After the meal, Zhi Xia and Sister Zhang cleared the table while Pei Jing went to the old Pei house.


    In the few years since Old Pei passed away, the memorial tablet had been kept hidden in a cab. Every time Pei Jing came back, he would take it out to pay his respects.


    During festivals and holidays, Pei Yong and Pei Sheng woulde over too.


    This time Pei Jing stayed home for several days. Right until school was about to start, he even took the kids to register, delighting them greatly.


    Zhi Xia went one dayter than the few kids. Pei Jing apanied her too.


    In the busy school campus filled with peopleing and going, Zhi Xia smiled and jogged over to him. "I''m done! Let''s go out and find a ce to eat before heading back. Over the past half year several shops have opened near the school gate, and there''s even a night market at night that you haven''t had a chance to see yet."


    "Alright, let''s go eat, then bring the kids to the night market at night. School starts tomorrow anyway, so we can rx onest time." Pei Jing said.


    The students at the university were very open-minded. Many young couples secretly held hands. Pei Jing nced at Zhi Xia from the corner of his eyes, and his broad palm slowly shifted towards her.


    Hand in hand, love abounds.


    "Here, here! Let me tell you, their dumplings are amazing. Especially themb ones. It''s just that they don''t have them often."


    Zhi Xia pulled Pei Jing into a dumpling restaurant. The space inside wasn''t very big. Neat tables and chairs were arranged, and Wang Li and Li Fei happened to be sitting at one of them.


    Zhi Xia was stunned for a moment, but she saw Wang Li was even more nervous than her. "Zhi Xia, you came to eat dumplings too?"


    Li Fei also smiled and said, "Zhi Xia, this is your husband right? If you don''t mind, let''s share a table and eat together. I felt it was quite a pity that you weren''t in Jincheng when Wang Li and I got married so we didn''t get to treat you. Today''s my treat so just eat to your heart''s content!"


    "Married?" Zhi Xia looked at Wang Li, but she didn''t dare meet Zhi Xia''s gaze.


    "Yeah, you didn''t know?" Li Fei saw her surprised expression and asked strangely, "That can''t be right. You weren''t present, but didn''t you send over a red packet?"


    Zhi Xia immediately understood what was going on. Her expression also turned cold.


    Pei Jing secretly pinched her palm to hint for her to calm down, and said to Li Fei, "Let''s not share a table. My wife and I happened to take time off our busy schedules for a rare date today, so next time when there''s a chance I''ll treat you instead."

 Chapter 345: Prepare chicken blood in advance, hide the truth.

    <h4>Chapter 345</h4>


    "What about the gift money?" Pei Jing turned his head to look at Zhi Xia, puzzled: "I didn''t hear you mention this before?"


    "I didn''t even know about it myself, I didn''t realize I had given you a gift!" Zhi Xia said sarcastically, "Forget it, let''s go."


    After Zhi Xia finished speaking, she pulled Pei Jing out. Wang Li chased them from behind, "Zhi Xia..."


    She called out, seeing Zhi Xia look back, before saying: "Zhi Xia, Li Fei and I are already married, Liu Xuan has also started a new life..."


    Zhi Xia understood what she meant, the facts had already happened, even if she said it now, it would only cause pain for the three people.


    "Wang Li, there are no walls in the world that don''t let the wind through. You only saw the joy in front of you, but have you ever thought about what kind of storm you will encounter when things are exposed?"


    This was the only advice Zhi Xia could give her.


    In fact, she still didn''t understand to this day, Wang Li obviously didn''t like Li Fei that much, but after Liu Xuan''s arrival, she even used deceptive means to marry Li Fei.


    What was she thinking?


    Wang Li returned home dejectedly. Just as she heard Li Fei ask her, "Ali, why do I feel you and Zhi Xia are a little strange, did you guys have a fight? Also about the gift money, didn''t you say Zhi Xia gave the money to you in advance since she wasn''t there? Why does she seem to not know about it?"


    "Li Fei, I''m sorry, I lied. Actually, Zhi Xia and I had some minor conflicts recently and we never made up. You and Zhi Xia also have a good rtionship, I didn''t want you to know we were fighting, and it just so happened that Zhi Xia wasn''t there for our wedding, I was afraid you would overthink it, so I falsely imed that Zhi Xia had given gift money." Wang Li''s mind was full of Zhi Xia''s words, and her whole person was in chaos.


    She didn''t understand either, her original intention was just to use Li Fei to make Liu Xuan give up, but after being persuaded by her mother when she returned home, she began to waver and took step after step to her current situation.


    On the wedding day, she had also prepared chicken blood in advance to pull the wool over everyone''s eyes.


    And now, it made her unable to get off the tiger she was riding.


    "Then that''s your fault, how could you lie to me about this? Besides, you and Zhi Xia were so close, it''s very normal for friends to have some conflicts, what''s the big deal? We can all sit down and resolve it properly, we''ve been friends for so long, is it necessary to break off the rtionship over some minor issue?"


    "Anyway, it''s not a big deal, it''s just a disagreement between two people''s values, and how is this my fault? You''re my partner, even if it''s my mistake, you have to think I''m right!"


    Afraid that Li Fei would get more and more enthusiastic, Wang Li hurriedly glossed over it, really not wanting to go around this topic anymore.


    Li Fei smiled helplessly and said, looking at her with doting eyes, "Yes, yes, it''s all my fault, you''re both right..."


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia came to the noodle shop next door, and their previously good mood was alsopletely ruined.


    "Is this the Li Fei you were talking about?" He had seen Wang Li before, and also knew that Zhi Xia was quite close to her at school.


    Zhi Xia nodded, "Let''s eat noodles, this noodle shop is pretty good."


    Pei Jing nodded, and ordered two bowls of shredded pork noodles.


    Seeing that Zhi Xia was still angry, he smiled andforted her, "Don''t be angry anymore. Everyone has their own choices, and will eventually pay the price for their choices. As long as it doesn''t affect us, what does it have to do with us? There is no need to get angry at other people''s mistakes, it''s not worth it."


    "I thought if it was you, you would choose to tell the truth." After all, in Zhi Xia''s impression, he had always been a very upright person.


    If you say it before the wedding, it''s a kind reminder made in good faith. They are already married now, if you say it now it will seem like you are trying to sabotage their rtionship. At best, they will understand and apologize to you, at worst, they will me their misfortune on the person who exposed them.


    "You sound so experienced, have you encountered something like this before?" Zhi Xia suddenly felt.


    Pei Jing just smiled, and didn''t say much more.


    But his expression told her that he had indeed encountered it before.


    Zhi Xia also didn''t know why she was so angry, it wasn''t even her business.


    Thinking about it this way, she did feel better.


    The shredded pork noodles at the noodle shop were veryrge bowls. When she and Wang Li came to eat before, they would share one bowl between the two of them.


    This time it was Pei Jing who ordered, and Zhi Xia forgot to remind him earlier. Now looking at the two huge bowls of noodles in front of her, she started worrying about her stomach.


    "It''s too much, I can''t finish it, I''ll share some with you."


    Pei Jing had a big appetite. He nodded, then used his chopsticks to transfer some noodles into his own bowl.


    "Is this enough?"


    "Enough."


    When they finished eating and walked out of the shop, they saw not far from the door, a little girl hugging Wang Li''s leg calling "Mommy".


    There was some pain in Wang Li''s eyes as she looked at the little girl, while Li Fei didn''t understand. He was still looking around calling out, "Whose child is this? Got the wrong person right?"


    Wang Li also hurriedly pried the little girl''s hands open, squatted down to look directly at her, "Little girl, you''ve got the wrong person, I''m not your mother."


    Her voice sounded somewhat hoarse, and the rims of her eyes were slightly red.


    "You are my mother, I''ve seen your photo before, I recognize my mother."


    That was when Wang Li had just decided to return to the city. At that time she still had feelings for Liu Xuan, and had never thought of abandoning her husband and daughter. She only wanted to find an opportunity to bring them to the city.


    She also took the initiative to go to town to take the photo, for fear that her daughter would forget her after being separated for too long, and repeatedly urged Liu Xuan to make sure her daughter looked at her photo.


    She didn''t expect that she was once worried that her daughter would forget her, but now her daughter remembered while she had to push her away with her own hands.


    Liu Xuan hurried out from the shop, anxiously hugging the little girl in his arms, "Si Si, you''ve got the wrong person, this isn''t your mother."


    The little girl stared at Wang Li''s face for a long time before losing hold of Liu Xuan disappointingly.


    "Sorry folks, the child was missing her mother and mistaken someone else, really sorry for causing trouble for you." Liu Xuan''s voice was already very calm. It seemed that he had already epted the fact that Wang Li had remarried.


    At first, he thought that if he earned enough money to stay in the city, Wang Li woulde back. But now, he didn''t know what Liu Xuan was thinking.


    "It''s fine, the child is quite pitiful too. Is her mother gone?" Li Fei still liked this little girl quite a bit. He felt somewhat familiar with her but was very sure he didn''t know the other party.


    Liu Xuan didn''t answer. He hugged Liu Si and went back into the shop.


    Li Fei was stillining, "This guy is a bit rude!"


    Wang Li gently tugged at his shirt hem, "Let''s go."

 Chapter 346: Start Decorating

    <h4>Chapter 346</h4>


    Wang Li and Zhi Xia were growing further and further apart, and it seemed that it was already destined.


    On the third day of school, Pei Jing left alone.


    Pei Jing had already be themander-in-chief of the special forces team, while An ZhiAng seeded his original position.


    This was also within expectations. After all, the physiques of both of them had been upgraded, so of course they were beyond ordinary people.


    News came from Wu Lei that the first batch of trial equipment had good feedback and the effect was very good. Although the profit was not yet enough to maintain the expenses, it was already a very good start.


    Su Ying''s customers were also asking her about the purchase channels of Jiao Yan, and many customers came to the store to ce orders because of the trial kits she had sent out.


    Unfortunately, Zhi Xia didn��t have any goods here for now, so she could only contact Wu Lei to transport a batch of goods here as soon as possible and open the Jiao Yan store in Jincheng.


    Jiao Yan''s preliminary n was to take the high-end route. The store was ready-made, An ZhiXian��s two rooms, no matter the location or space, were very good, while An ZhiAng��s store was mainly used to store fabrics for Su Ying. In addition to the one key that Zhi Xia kept here, it could also be considered as returned to them.


    Next was the renovation issue.


    It wasn��t the era where renovationpanies were all over the streets in thete 1990s, where anything could be easily solved with money. Everything had to be figured out by oneself.


    She could design the store herself, disy cabs could also be custom-made through the trading tform, but the store renovation still had to find someone.


    Those were old houses from many years ago, and the roofs still leaked in some ces. It was said that it used to be a leather shop.


    n step by step, Zhi Xia wrote these things down on paper before going to implement them.


    Next door, the Old Master and Old Madam were rxing in the yard.


    Zhi Xia went in and greeted them, then asked, "Grandma, is my fourth sister-inw back?"


    "She''s inside, just got back not long ago," the Old Madam said, "Youe in and ask about your fourth sister-inw, what''s the matter?"


    "I have a small problem to ask her. I''ll go in first."


    An ZhiAng left the day before yesterday. Su Ying was also a woman with a strong sense of career. She had already moved her shop from the alley to the main street, and also hired several shop assistants.


    It was originally pure customized handiwork, but considering most people''s wallets were not that thick, she also started using sewing machines now. The prices were rtively cheaper, but the stylesing out of her ce were good-looking, so business was not only unaffected, but getting better and better.


    Of course, the custom handiwork was not abandoned either. She had always been high-end, so she was not affected at all.


    Su Ying was also busy inside, making another romper for her unborn child. The expected date of birth was around February next year, and the weather would still be cold at that time, so the clothes would have to be made a little thicker.


    "Sister-inw, let me ask you, which workers did you ask to renovate your store back then? Please help introduce them," Zhi Xia went straight to the point after entering.


    Su Ying nced up at her, put down her work at hand to the side, and said, "It was done by Second Uncle and others from Zhou Vige, plus two cousins. But you��ll have to prepare the materials yourself. If it''s just painting the walls, it can be done in a few days. It depends on the specific situation if wardrobes are needed.��


    Anyway, it took her more than a month at that time. Making the cabs took a long time, and they had to be made ording to her needs.


    "Uncle and the others can do this too?" Zhi Xia really didn''t know about this. She hadn''t been to Zhou Vige many times either. After she got married, she followed the army, andter it was not convenient to travel with several children.


    And as a married daughter, after Grandma passed away, she didn��t need to visit rtives during holidays like her brothers.


    "It is said that when Grandpa was alive, he was a carpenter. Second Uncle and them have learned it, but they abandoned the skill during the difficult years some time ago. In recent two years they picked it up again. In addition to farming, they asionally make furniture and windows for others, which can bring some extra ie home."


    Zhi Xia knew Zhou Nan had contact with Eldest Uncle and them. There was an official in Zhou Vige government who helped pass messages when theymunicated.


    Since Zhi Xia didn��t know him, she obviously didn��t have the face either, so she could only ask An JingZhi to help.


    Zhou Vige, the two uncles were actually quite busy.


    Land was distributed at the beginning of the year, and every household worked hard since it was their ownnd.


    By the spring harvest, except for a couple ofzy guys, every household had a bumper harvest.


    Now that they had money, they naturally wanted to improve their lives. Those who didn''t have enough houses to live in or wanted to split their families built new houses.


    To build houses, roof frames and windows were needed, as well as furniture, so they had work to do.


    When the message arrived at home, Eldest Uncle and Second Uncle were sawing wood.


    As soon as Eldest Uncle heard that there was work for them in the city, he agreed without thinking twice. He also asked the messenger to help pass a message to An JingZhi.


    After the man left, Second Aunt was dissatisfied: "Big brother, you agreed so readily, but the work at hand hasn''t been finished yet.��


    "We''ll work overtime tonight, just spending more electricity. It has to be delivered tomorrow." Eldest Uncleughed.


    Later, when there was an opportunity, Older Aunt pulled Eldest Uncle aside and said, "You didn''t hear the implication in my sister-inw''s words, right? She was obviously reluctant for you to go to the city to work."


    She felt her sister-inw was getting more petty after Mother Zhou passed away.


    Eldest Uncle didn''t let Older Aunt talk. He said Second Aunt didn''t mean anything bad and told her not to overthink.


    In fact, how could he not understand? But in life, one should turn a blind eye when one should. It would be tiring for both sides if everything was pursued to the end.


    He med himself too. Last time when he went to help his little niece, he thought they were rtives so he didn��t have the heart to charge money. On his way home, he forced her to take back the money she gave him and asked Zhou Nan to return it to her. This made his sister-inw feel at a loss.


    It was not a quiet night. There was also a lot of noise at Second Uncle''s house until midnight.


    Zhou Jianye hugged his child and wife and hid in the room. His wife asked him if he shouldn''t go out and advise them. He only replied that things would get more out of hand the more he advised.


    Of course, Zhi Xia didn''t know any of this. It was Uncle and Second Uncle who came with two cousins ??at noon the next day, a total of four people.


    Zhi Xia took them to the store, which had two floors and two rooms. There was ayer of white limewash on the walls, but it had turned ck and needed to be chipped off and restered.


    Working with her own rtives was reassuring in one way. She didn''t have to keep an eye on them to prevent workers from cutting corners.


    Zhi Xia originally wanted them to stay at her house at night. The house was big enough for them to stay. But Uncle and them refused and said that working on the walls was too dirty, it was better to stay here than at home.


    Indeed it was so. They had different lifestyles. When they went to Zhi Xia��s house, it was clean inside and out, and the house was spotless. They would feel uneasy if they stayed there.


    On the contrary, spreading quilts on the ground here made them feel morefortable since the weather was still hot.

 Chapter 347: I have a Mission for You.

    <h4>Chapter 347</h4>


    Zhi Xia also could not do anything with them, so she could only try her best to prepare better meals and let Mrs. Zhou deliver them there every day.


    The second time Zhi Xia went there, they had already started working. Eldest uncle, Second uncle and two Cousins were shoveling wall ster, covered in ayer of white ster, looking particrly hardworking.


    Eldest uncle was stillughing and told Zhi Xia, "Don''t let Mrs. Zhou prepare meals that are too good, eating meat every day is too wasteful, and they are all good meat. Just make some meals to eat until full, that��s it."


    After Zhi Xia left, Eldest uncle instructed his son and nephew, "When you go back, you still have to urge the children to study hard. Just look at Zhi Xia, she had never attended school before, but now she has been admitted to university. What does this show? It shows that as long as one is willing to work hard and make efforts, there is nothing that cannot be aplished. No matter when it is, cultured people always live morefortably. Don''t you want the children below to be like us when they grow up,ing and going in wind and rain, working hard to earn some hard-won money?"


    When An Jingzhi advised them to focus on their children''s studies in the past, it was when the chaos was severe, and many cultured people lived in cow pens, so they just listened and let it go without taking it to heart.


    Now that they were older and their strength was not what it used to be, and seeing the gap between their younger sister��s children and their own children, whether it was their appearance or speech, it was worlds apart.


    The others didn''t need to do any hard work, they were fair-skinned and looked younger, while his own son was also in his 30s, as dark as charcoal, with hands and feet full of calluses, and his face was also full of vicissitudes.


    Second uncle also agreed with him, "Yes, we have to choose between the pen and the hoe, the heavier one is not necessarily the better one."


    The main annoying thing was shoveling ster. Painting was quite fast.


    It took a total of 5 days, and when everything was done, they washed themselves clean with well water in the backyard and changed into clean clothes before going home.


    Zhou Nan came to tell them to go home for dinner. When leaving, Zhi Xia selected several pieces of cloth for them and their families and put them in separate packages.


    After the previous experience of Su Ying giving money, Zhi Xia did not mention giving money this time.


    Zhou Nan originally wanted them to stay for a few more days, but both uncles and Cousin were worried about their families. They had been here for several days and were eager to go home.


    After returning home, Second Aunt went to fetch water angrily for Second Uncle and second Cousin to wash their faces, while keptining, "Yes, after working for a few days just for the meals at their home, you all ate well, but what about the children? At least that Zhi Xia girl still knows what to do, she even knows to give some stuff. I see those pieces of cloth are not bad. It should be enough to make a thick cotton coat for each of you in winter."


    After saying that, she quietly lowered her voice and said sadly, "Also make one for Yuan Yuan. It''s been a few years since she got married and I haven''t seen her buy clothes for herself. She''s living worse off than when she was at home."


    Second uncle didn''t want to talk at first. Anyway, she was just muttering and couldn''t do anything.


    But when he heard this, he still couldn''t help retorting, "What you said... Getting married means growing up. How can she still be as carefree as when she was a girl? She was a child before, so we had to love her and take care of her. Now she is a wife and a mother. She also has her own responsibilities and people she should take care of."


    "I just feel sorry for my daughter, thinking that she is living such a difficult life, working hard for a lifetime, and unable to enjoy blessings even when she dies." Second Auntined and took over their face towels that had been wiped, washed them clean and hung them up to dry, before going to look over those pieces of cloth.


    Soon, Second Aunt''s voice came from the room, "Dear,e here quickly."


    Second Uncle went in without knowing why, "What''s the matter? You are so old yet still yelling, aren''t you afraid the children willugh at you?"


    "Look, there is money in the cloth!" Second Aunt was holding four 50 yuan bills and a note in her hand.


    This was for both him and second Cousin. Of course it was not all from Zhi Xia alone. There was also Su Ying. She had felt bad about the previous incident all along. After hearing Zhi Xia��s decision, she also put the money in for them, making up for it.


    This amount of money might not mean much to them, but for Second Uncle''s family, it was quite arge ie. Moreover, they had worked hard for several days and wasted a lot of time.


    As soon as Second Uncle saw it, he immediately understood what was going on. He turned around and walked out, "Keep the money first. I''ll go to Eldest Brother''s house to take a look."


    As a result, when he arrived at Eldest Uncle��s house, he found 40 yuan and a note stuffed in the cloth there as well.


    ...


    With goods cabs delivered to the store and after some tidying up, it just waited for the goods to arrive before opening.


    At this time, Zhi Xia posted a job advertisement at the door. She needed two girls to work as sales clerks. They would need to learn some skin care knowledge and massage techniques to better serve customers.


    The autumn weather was particrly dry. With Su Ying''s publicity beforehand, as soon as the firecrackers went off for the store''s opening, people poured in.


    For now, Jiaoyan didn''t have too many product types, but at this time skincare products were mainly moisture retention, so having whitening effects was already very good.


    There were also discounts for the first day��s opening. Free hand cream for purchases of 30 yuan, free tinted lip balm for purchases of 80 yuan, and free pearl powder for purchases of 300 yuan.


    Of course, there were only a small number of twenty boxes of pearl powder, firste first served. And guaranteed to be genuine goods from overseas.


    Pei Xiang also brought her sisters from the cultural work troupe over, "Auntie, I wish your business thrives. I brought my colleagues here specially to support your business, so don''t forget to give me a discount, OK?"


    "OK, I''ll tell themter. For the people you brought, everyone will get a free hand cream, alright?" Seeing the girls in front of her, an idea suddenly came to Zhi Xia''s mind.


    "Go inside and take a look first. There are quite a lot of people today. Please bear with us if the service is not good enough."


    The girls were all quite easy to talk to. In their line of work, wearing and removing makeup aremon, so skin care protection was especially important.


    In the past, the things they used were all purchased at high prices. In particr, products that could do skin care protection were even more precious.


    Earlier, Pei Xiang had brought many trial skin care products for them to use, saying they were made by her rtives. Pei Xiang''s family condition was quite good, so the things she used had always been very good. This was known to everyone. Even the things she herself used could naturally gain people''s trust.


    Sure enough, after just a few days of usage, the results could be clearly seen. On the opening day of Jiaoyan today, they naturally came to check it out.


    The prices were not cheap, butpared to the Friendship Store, many items were still eptable.


    After seeing them in, Zhi Xia pulled Pei Xiang aside, "Xiang Xiang, I have a task for you. If you can do it well, the skin care products for your troupe��s future performances will be covered by Auntie. What do you think?��


    Pei Xiang was in the municipal performance troupe, so the troupe was not small, and was also quite famous nationwide.

 Chapter 348: The Ambition He Gave

    <h4>Chapter 348</h4>


    Pei Xiang widened her eyes instantly, "Auntie, just tell me what the task is. As long as it''s not picking stars from the sky, my colleague and I will throw tantrums toplete it for you."


    Thest time she was given skin care samples had already made her the darling of the troupe. Now, with one call, hundreds would respond. After all, which girl wouldn''t care about her own face?


    With a new task at hand, she was already thrilled without a hint of apprehension.


    "It''s not a big deal. Just convince your troupe leader to help advertise. Don''t worry, it won''t take much effort from you all, and it will absolutely benefit you. Jiao Yan''s whitening skincare line is just the first product from the factory. There will be more products for you all to try in the future, including makeup items. They will all be free of charge. This should help your troupe save a lot on expenses..." Zhi Xia said with a smile that made her eyes disappear.


    Zhi Xia didn''t have any ulterior motives. She just suddenly thought of the advertising effects from her past life.


    In the 1980s, televisions weren''t prevalent yet, and only a minority could afford radios. But art troupes were different. They traveled all over the country for performances, attractingrge crowds wherever they went. Some people would even walk dozens of miles just to watch a show.


    Zhi Xia didn''t need them to do much, just help advertise on stage during performances, and say a few words about the product at the beginning and end.


    This was the best way to quickly and briefly establish the Jiao Yan brand nationally, making it known all over.


    After hearing the exnation, Pei Xiang''s eyes shone brightly the whole time. "Auntie, don''t worry. I guarantee I''llplete the task for you. If the troupe leader doesn''t agree, I''ll lead my sisters to surround him until he submits!"


    The benefits for them were simply too great.


    A good set of skincare easily cost tens or even hundreds of yuan at Friendship Stores for foreign goods.


    The lowest paid members of their troupe only made 30 yuan or so, with the highest earning 70-80 yuan. Having their faces caked with makeup for performances already greatly damaged their skin. Using skincare products wasparatively expensive.


    They had to spend a month''s wages every 3-4 months on average. Many lower ie membersined they couldn''t afford it and often had irritated, blemished skin from saving money.


    If they could eliminate this expense, nobody in the troupe would disagree.


    Zhi Xia also felt they had no reason to refuse such a win-win proposal. She waved her hand generously, "Go ahead and let them pick. I''ll cover the costs today. Just let me know when it''s time to checkout."


    To get things done, you had to be willing to invest.


    Since Pei Xiang had only brought 4-5 colleagues today, giving them some free skincare sets was affordable.


    Knowing Zhi Xia wasn''t joking, Pei Xiang excitedly hugged her. "Auntie, you''re the best. Love you! I''ll go pick things first. Next time I''m free I''lle visit you."


    Zhi Xia found her amusing. She then went to notify the shop assistants so there wouldn''t be any misunderstandings at checkoutter since she was busy.


    Zhi Xia took over the tasks of collecting money and bookkeeping. The second floor provided facials and massages, along with some skincare package experiences. It was very busy today with the extra customers, so they were short on people.


    But this was only the first day. Once the grand opening promotions died down, customer flow would reach a saturation point and slowly stabilize.


    The shop didn''t close until 11pm. Zhi Xia still had school tomorrow, but fortunately Su Ying had introduced a store manager to her.


    After calcting the earnings from the first day, she found out they had made over 3,000 yuan.


    In this era of average 50-60 yuan monthly wages, it was a huge sum.


    What''s more, they still had promotional activities running for another two days. Looking at their current inventory, they needed to urgently restock.


    Pei Xiang soon sent word that the troupe leader had naturally agreed. It was a win-win deal with no reason to decline.


    But they still needed to meet and thoroughly discuss the details of their cooperation, as well as sign a contract. This was protection for both Jiao Yan and the art troupe.


    What Jiao Yan currently needed wasn''t just building brand awareness, but also recruiting franchises to expand store locations. Otherwise, even with fame, customers would have no way to purchase their products.


    After settling the cooperation on her end, Zhi Xia left franchise matters to Wu Lei''s side. The factory was over there after all, so having the production facilities and supply would be more convincing.


    The second half of 1979 was Zhi Xia''s busiest half year.


    From product forms, promotions, to sales methods, all decisions were up to her.


    Of course, Wu Lei and Hu Zhou weren''t cking off either. Otherwise, with how much Hu Zhou doted on his daughter, he couldn''t have left her here for half a year without visiting.


    But their hard work was worth it. By the end of the year, the factory finally moved past operating at a loss and stepped into profitability.


    Although bonuses still had to be saved for next year''s production, it was still a good start. Moreover, the Jiao Yan brand was now well established. Wu Lei''s side had also set up a marketing department. Although they hadn''t expanded overseas yet, they now had a ce in the skincare industry.


    On the 22nd day of thest lunar month, Zhi Xia decided to start her year-end vacation early. The shop staff had been busy for half a year without any time off. She gave each of them a big red envelope, as well as rewards of rice, oil, and arge pork leg.


    Of course she couldn''t neglect Auntie Zhang''s side either. When she was busy, the household depended entirely on her.


    After many years together, Auntie Zhang was more like family.


    Zhi Xia went to Wu Xiaohua''s snack shop. With Liu Xuan''s addition, they had built up the little eatery to look formal, and even hired two assistants.


    "Sis An, you''re here..." Compared to her previous bleakness, Wu Xiaohua was much more cheerful now, likely from regaining confidence.


    Zhi Xia: "Your dad said I should ask if you want to go to Shen City to find him since the New Year is almost here and he won''t make it back."


    Wu Xiaohua hesitated before sighing, "Forget it. Spending New Year''s alone would be too pitiful. Brother Liu also decided to take Si Si back to his hometown, so the shop would have to close with him gone anyway. I might as well go find my dad ande back after the holiday."


    Zhi Xia smiled. "Go on. It''ll be good for a grown man to get out and see more of the world. You can''t hide in this little snack shop forever."


    "I certainly don''t n on staying in this little snack shop forever. Brother Liu mentioned earlier that we should expand and not just do snacks anymore. We want to open a restaurant hotel, but haven''t found a suitable location yet. Sis An, you know more people, so help us keep an eye out for a ce suitable for a hotel."


    "Running a restaurant takes quite a bit of capital. Do you have that much money?" Zhi Xia asked in surprise. She was also worried that the simpleminded Wu Xiaohua would be taken advantage of by the more ambitious Liu Xuan.


    Despite seeming honest and obedient, Liu Xuan harbored greater aspirations. He must have ns to propose something so bold.


    "We''re not sure yet. But we''ve saved up some over the past half year. If we do decide to open the hotel, we can sell this snack shop. It should be worth something. Anyway, I''ll just partner with Brother Liu. He said no matter how much we earn in the future, we split it evenly, and will be lifelong good brothers, with neither cheating the other."


    Wu Xiaohua knew that while he had initially taken Liu Xuan in with his roadside food stand, their current shop and ambition to open a hotel were all thanks to Liu Xuan. If it was up to him alone, he would still be half dead behind that food stand.

 Chapter 349: Missing the Old Man

    <h4>Chapter 349</h4>


    The child knew that striving for progress was a good thing. He also could not dampen his confidence.


    Failure is not terrible. What is terrible is not having the heart to stand up again.


    Zhi Xia patted him on the shoulder to encourage him, "Then go for it, work hard for your goals. If you have any difficulties, you cane to me."


    "Okay, thank you Aunt An," Wu Xiaohua said.


    At the An family.


    Zhou Nan looked at Pei Shuangshuang who approached again, and was simply extremely headaches.


    At the beginning, she didn''t know what was going on. Ever since the third son came back, this girl had been running over here all the time, ostensibly to keep herpany. But as soon as the third son came back, her eyeballs were almost thrown onto the third son.


    Over time, Zhou Nan finally figured it out.


    But this was not a trivial matter either.


    Her daughter was married to Pei Jing. Although Grandpa said he let them handle their own affairs separately and not get entangled, there was still no reason for Pei Shuangshuang to marry the third son.


    Otherwise, it would be a mess at home, which would not look proper to outsiders.


    Moreover, Zhou Nan really did not like Pei Shuangshuang.


    Forget about this girl''s spoiled temperament. Just talking about how she made things difficult for her sister-inw when she was a youngdy, and got Guo Momo to have a premature delivery. She was quite ill-mannered.


    Plus Wang Yue''s troublemaking at the time. If her daughter followed her mother, and brought back such a troublemaker as a daughter-inw, how could she not be crossing her?


    She wouldn''t say her children were all exceptionally good. But even in the eyes of outsiders, they were all outstanding. Her three daughters-inw had some minor ws, but in general they were still decent.


    At least no one dared to make trouble in front of her because of family property or anything.


    "Shuangshuang, are you on vacation from yourpany?" Knowing her intention, Zhou Nan asked with a stiff smile.


    "Not yet. I still have to wait a few more days before I can take time off," Pei Shuangshuang said. Zhou Nan was picking vegetables with her hands, and Pei Shuangshuang also acted like she wanted to help. "Auntie, are you making lunch? Let me help you."


    She was about to get started, but Zhou Nan dodged, "You don''t need to help with this. It''s just a casual thing for me. But since you haven''t gotten time off work yet, you should still have to go to work in the afternoon. It''s gettingte now. Auntie won''t keep you. Hurry back home to eat and then go to work."


    Pei Shuangshuang pouted somewhat dejectedly, "Auntie, I don''t want to go home. Can I eat at your house? You don''t know how my sister-inw is..."


    A series ofints came pouring out. Zhou Nan secretly rolled her eyes.


    If you only listened to Pei Shuangshuang''s one-sided ount, she did sound quite aggrieved. But Zhou Nan just wanted to gloat.


    What was this called again?


    That''s right.


    Viins get their just desserts!


    Not a single conniving woman. It''s perfect that they''ve gathered together and can torment each other. Just don''te out and bother others.


    Having finally sent Pei Shuangshuang away, Zhou Nan put the picked vegetables into the kitchen, then went to the living room to sit opposite An Jingzhi. "All you do is read this newspaper every day. Can you read patterns or read money out of it?"


    As she grew older and the children had all started families, An Jingzhi''s temper had also mellowed quite a bit.


    Now asionally, he would even help look after the grandchildren, and no longer had the stubborn attitude towards Zhou Nan like before.


    Seeing she was in a bad mood, he put down the newspaper helplessly and said, "What''s the matter? The kids aren''t home either, they''ve gone with their mother to visit her mother. Who''s bothering you again?"


    Currently, it was still Liu Ling who lived with them along with the children, with only the still unmarried third son asionallying back. But because he was often on duty at the hospital, most of the time he just slept in the duty room there.


    "It''s Pei Shuangshuang again. Tell me, what should we do about this? Even when the third son doesn''te home, she still runs over here all the time, as if she''s got her eye on me. It really gives me a headache." After speaking, Zhou Nan red at An Jingzhi, "The third son is also at fault. He refuses to go on blind dates when told to find a partner himself, he doesn''t have any ideas either. If he found a partner and settled the matter, Pei Shuangshuang would naturally give up that idea on her own. They bother me day after day without giving me a moment''s peace. And you, you don''t even try to control your son. Sooner orter I''ll be worried to death by you all!"


    "It''s not like I don''t try to control him. He''s almost 30, how can I control him his whole life?" An Jingzhi was also helpless. As the children grew up, his authority at home grew lower and lower.


    In the past it was only the fourth son who opposed him, now they all opposed him.


    If he talked too much, they would simply disappear and he wouldn''t even see them. What more could he do?


    He couldn''t possibly go block people at the hospital every day, could he?


    Zhou Nan was also bing more and more difficult with age, and more nagging as well.


    Over the past two years, his status in the family had sunk lower and lower. Even just sitting here reading a newspaper could draw criticism from her. Life had be unbearable.


    "Or I''ll go talk to her father. He should be the one to control his own daughter. Her running over to our house all the time really doesn''t look right." He remembered Pei Shuangshuang was 24 or 25 this year. When a daughter grew up, it was hard to keep her at home. Keeping her would only breed resentment.


    He didn''t know what she was thinking, already so old and still without a partner, actually having her eyes on the third son.


    Come to think of it, it was the same situation in his own home. When it came to getting them married, it was like getting them enemies.


    In the past, the second son had also been tricked by a woman because he didn''t listen to him early on and find a partner.


    There wasn''t anything terribly wrong with Zheng Suchun either. She was just too clingy. As a grown man outside, she would follow him taking tiny steps with the two children in tow.


    Actually when he thought about it, who didn''t have some ws?


    Liu Ling was petty, but she still had a sense of propriety, so they just turned a blind eye.


    At present, Su Ying still seemed decent, but she lived at Grandpa''s ce, so it was possibly an issue of absence making the heart grow fonder, and not seeing each other''s ws by living together.


    An Jingzhi also felt some sympathy for Pei Yong. No matter how capable a man was, if both his children were not raised well, he would only start to bear the bitter fruits in hister years.


    But he also had to admit Pei Yong''s contributions. Aside from being muddled regarding family matters, he could be called a hero when it came to his country and people.


    In this aspect, he was better than himself.


    Pei Yong had never known that Pei Shuangshuang would actually like An ZhiXian, and even the reason she had refused to find a partner and get married all these years was because of him.


    When he found out, he was also shocked, and at the same time realized this marriage could not happen.


    Otherwise, An Jingzhi would not havee to see him today either.


    Zhi Xia didn''t know any of this, because she was busy with New Year''s matters.


    On the 28th, Pei JianGuo sent over New Year gifts. Fortunately Pei Jing was also there, so he went to receive them himself.


    Zhi Xia had told Sister Zhang she could take the day off on New Year''s Day, so there was no need for her toe.


    She also had her own family to go home and celebrate a good new year.


    But in reality, men could just shrug it off while women still had to bustle around busily. So it was impossible for her to actually rx.


    Zhi Xia was discussing with Pei Jing what dishes to prepare for New Year''s Eve dinner. After all there were many children who all had quite the appetite, and preparing too little would definitely not be enough.


    Just then, PingAn came scrambling in from outside. "Grandpa and Grandma, my grandpa said tomorrow he wants you all toe to our house for New Year''s Eve dinner. Grandpa bought lots of meat and vegetables today, chicken, fish, and meat."

 Chapter 350: The Farce of the New Year鈥檚 Dinner

    <h4>Chapter 350</h4>


    Pei Jing and Zhi Xia exchanged a nce. Pei Jing said to PingAn, "Go tell your grandfather we got it."


    "Oh, then I''ll go back home first." PingAn obediently went out. Except for being a little thin, he now looked no different from an ordinary child.


    There were still the sounds of the triplets and Little Sixth talking in the yard. Who knows what they said, but the kids shouted and ran out together, probably going out back with PingAn.


    "So should we not prepare dinner tonight?" Zhi Xia asked Pei Jing.


    "Let''s not prepare yet. Dad''s been gone for years, eldest brother was never home before, so he probably wants us all to get together this year." Pei Jing said, "I''ll go see eldest brother."


    "Alright, bring the meat and shrimp we''ve prepared over, that''s a few more dishes." Now their family had the most people, it wouldn''t be right to show up empty-handed with all those mouths to feed.


    As Pei Jing was packing the meat into a basket, he muttered, "It''s good being together for New Year''s. Pei Meng''s not here, and the Pei Xiang couple have to go back to the wife''s family. Every year it was just second brother''s family, they probably didn''t feel good. With all of us together it''ll be lively."


    "Then we should go early tomorrow to help out right? With so many people, we can''t let eldest brother do everything alone."


    "You don''t need to, I can go by myself."


    This would probably be the mostfortable new year for them. The three Pei brothers were busy preparing the reunion dinner in the kitchen, and the kids were also run ragged helping out. PingAn and Little Sixth were the youngest and couldn''t help much, so they were setting off firecrackers in the yard.


    Zhi Xia was afraid they would hurt themselves, so she had them take sparklers into the kitchen to light the firecrackers red hot before carefully sticking them into cracks in the wall near a corner. The kids would hide around the other side of the corner, using the sparklers to light the fuses from afar, creating loud bangs.


    She and Jiang Su kept watch over them, afraid the children would get out of hand.


    At one point Pei JianGuo walked over, seeming to want to say something to PingAn, but PingAn immediately ran away to hide in the kitchen to watch his grandpas work.


    After ying alone for a bit, Little Sixth probably got bored and simply threw away the sparkler to go find his brothers too.


    Zhi Xia vaguely heard Lu Keqin''s voice in the yard, "Look at your good son, he can talk now but won''t even call mom and dad. Who knows how his dad taught him!"


    "If you can''t stand it, we can take PingAn back? Or why don''t you repeat what you just said in front of my dad?" Pei JianGuo asked her.


    Lu Keqin fellpletely silent.


    Zhi Xia tidied her hair and saw the mocking look in Jiang Su''s eyes.


    She was probably also thinking that Wang Yue had arrogantly crowed about having a son in her face like aying hen. And now look at her own good son, what a joke.


    It was amazing Guo Momo endured him for so many years.


    And now there was this Lu Keqin. Rumor said she had left the Pei JianGuo-Pei Shuangshuang siblings in pitiful states. Even Wang Yue didn''t dare speak loudly in front of her anymore. It was karma.


    Perhaps seeing Zhi Xia looking at her, Jiang Su awkwardlyposed herself.


    Little Sixth raced over calling, "Mom, dad said to tidy up the table. We can eat soon."


    Zhi Xia made a sound of acknowledgement and tidied up with Jiang Su.


    Although Pei Yong was a grown man, years of living habits kept the household tidy and clean. It was just messy today with so many people and things brought over, all left on the tabletop.


    After they cleaned off the table, Pei JianGuo, Lu Keqin and the rest came to help carry dishes.


    The reunion dinner had very abundant fare. Pei Yong had prepared a lot already, plus what they brought over and what the second branch brought, the big table was piled full. Just the pork dish alone had several variations.


    Pei Yong looked around, his gaze clearly somewhat disappointed as he asked Pei JianGuo, "Shuangshuang didn''te?"


    Ever since he and Wang Yue divorced, his daughter had kept her distance. And after their argument over An Jingzhi''s arrival a few days ago things got worse between them.


    Pei Yong felt he really wasn''t a capable father. He didn''t know how tomunicate with his own child, especially with Pei Shuangshuang. They would only talk a few sentences before she startedining, in a tone almost identical to Wang Yue that gave him a headache every time.


    He could only desperately tell himself that she was his daughter and if he didn''t manage her no one would.


    "Shuangshuang is apanying mom at home, otherwise with all of us here mom would''ve been alone..."


    Unlike Pei Shuangshuang''s thoughts, Pei JianGuo never considered their parents reconciling.


    Perhaps as men there was some understanding of Pei Yong''s helpless desire to escape.


    Just like himself, he had desperately resisted at first but still ended uppletely controlled in the end.


    He did as she wished and married the daughter-inw she liked, yet his life was still a mess, even worse than when he was with Guo Momo. At least then it was a woman he cared for.


    There were times when the present days left Pei JianGuo confused about what meaning there was in living on like this.


    The burning sensation of liquor going down made his face twitch. Perhaps only this could conceal his unwilling expression.


    "It''s right for her to apany your mother. Let''s eat then..." Pei Yong said.


    Jiang Su poured a bit for Zhi Xia, "We can''t drink like these men. Just have a little atmosphere for New Year''s."


    When pouring for Lu Keqin she also asked about her condition and upon hearing she wasn''t pregnant yet, only then did she pour Lu Keqin a drink.


    The children finished eating first. Zhi Xia had low alcohol tolerance and was already tipsy after half a cup.


    The dumpling filling today was specially seasoned by someone, it was so tasty that even she who didn''t eat much had a whole teful.


    Fireworks burst alight outside, the yard full of the children''sughter.


    Jiang Su also loved children and apanied the children with Zhi Xia to watch the fireworks.


    The three brothers were still chatting while drinking. Pei JianGuo drank heavily and was supported to the bedroom by Lu Keqin.


    But soon Lu Keqin''s scream came from the bedroom, "Pei JianGuo, you bastard!"


    By the time everyone rushed over, the two inside were already fiercely fighting. Pei JianGuo had good skin, so the red palm print on his face was very obvious. Lu Keqin''s hair was also disheveled as she shrieked like a madwoman.


    They were still grabbing at each other''s cors, neither willing to let go.


    "Stop it, all of you!" Pei Yong''s angry voice came from the doorway.


    Pei JianGuo''s anger brought sobriety. He turned to look at Pei Yong, then reluctantly let go first under his murderous stare.


    With Pei Yong''s human-eating gaze fixed on her, Lu Keqin could only let go too.


    "What''s going on? You wanna fight instead of celebrate New Year''s, get out and go home if you don''t wanna be happy here and are disturbing my mood!" Pei Yong had asked everyone toe specifically so his family could have a nice time together after being apart for years.


    This happy time was not for them toe fight.


    "Dad, you have to settle this for me! Your son got drunk and was even calling out that cheap woman''s name! If he likes her so much why did he insist on marrying me? Wasn''t that just harming me... wu wu..." Lu Keqin wretchedly sat down on the floor, covering her face as she started crying.

 Chapter 351: The Serendipity Book

    <h4>Chapter 351</h4>


    Pei JianGuo was still a little dazed. His consciousness was still stuck in the p from Lu Keqin, and he had no memory of calling someone else when he was drunk. But asionally when he thought of those feelings that could only be hidden in his heart, he knew Lu Keqin was not lying.


    He pursed his lips and staggered out.


    Lu Keqin was still chattering and crying noisily, but he didn''t want to take care of it anymore.


    As for whether the Lu brothers woulde to find him tomorrow, he didn''t want to think about it either.


    He was drunk, did he still need to take care of things when he was sober?


    Let it be whatever it wants. It''s just one life, at worst he could give it to them.


    He felt so miserable, but no one could understand him.


    They were all pressing him...


    Seeing his son like this, Pei Yong seemed to see himself back then through him.


    His lover went far away, and he was forced to marry someone he didn''t love.


    Only the love in that era was much more magnificent, and there was more helplessness.


    Even after so many years, he still remembered that on the day he decided to get married, he had already given up on his heart''s desire and shouldered the responsibilities he should shoulder.


    But his wife''s relentless pressure led to her being forced away and killed in the war, which became an eternal knot in his heart.


    After so many years, when he thought about it again, it was still shocking.


    "Big brother..."


    Pei Sheng nced at Pei Yong, but didn''t know how to advise him.


    The contradictions in the main room had existed for many years, it was messy long ago, he just didn''t expect the child to grow up and still continue the tragedy of his parents.


    Pei Yong waved his hand at them and said, "The child is ignorant, let you uncles and aunts see the joke, you should go back first."


    At this moment, anything more said was redundant.


    After leaving, Pei Sheng looked at Pei Jing and said, "Third brother, JianGuo drank a lot, go see if you can catch up to send him back, it''s New Year''s Eve, don''t make trouble because of the alcohol."


    He was not young either, and was injured on the battlefield back then, so he hadn''t been able to exert himself these years, and certainly couldn''tpare to Pei Jing in physical strength.


    JianGuo was also a drunk, he was afraid he wouldn''t be able to hold him down if he caught up.


    "Alright, you guys go back first, I''ll take the car to catch up to him when I get home," Pei Jing said.


    Lu Keqin was still crying noisily.


    Pei Yong took PingAn back to the living room.


    The living room was a mess. Just now they were still chatting with Jiang Su and said they would clean up the table and leave after drinking.


    But after something like this happened, it would be even more inappropriate to stay.


    PingAn pursed her lips, obviously unhappy. After a long while, she finally looked up at her grandfather and bravely refuted, "Grandpa, my mom is not a cheap woman."


    Although the child was young, she understood everything.


    For more than half a year, it seemed that she could hardly remember what her mother looked like. There were no photos left by her at home either, but in those fuzzy memories, there were still impressions of her mother singing to her and taking care of her.


    Back then she couldn''t walk or talk yet, she was like a bundle, hanging on her mother''s arms and back every day, crushing her shoulders.


    asionally she could see grandma and auntie, and they always told her that her mother didn''t want her anymore, abandoned her to live a good life.


    But she knew she couldn''t hate her mother.


    Because in those days when everyone despised her, only her mother firmly took care of her and protected her.


    Pei Yong was startled, squatted down and took PingAn into his arms, "PingAn, don''t pay attention to what others say and how they look at you, because they can only judge someone based on their own eyes and ears. We need to feel with our hearts. Your mother gave you life, and took care of you during those most difficult years. She loved you very much. It''s just that there are always many helplessness in life. Those helplessness are like stones that can bend a person''s spine. When there are enough stones pressing down on the shoulders, it''s inevitable to want to escape, to find afortable environment to ease it. Your mother has had a very hard time these past few years. She is a good mother. She just went abroad to study, so she temporarily left you for grandpa to take care of. When she graduates andes back, she will definitelye looking for you. You can''t hate her or dislike her. We have to understand her, you know?"


    "Mhm." PingAn happily nodded. She also believed her mother would definitelye back for her.


    PingAn''s little hand touched Pei Yong''s hair. Pulling up the corner of her mouth, she said, "Grandpa is also a good grandpa. PingAn likes grandpa the most."


    Pei Yong smiled very bitterly.


    To PingAn, he was a good grandfather.


    But to Pei JianGuo, he was a very failed father.


    The child''s misfortune, he was also greatly responsible.


    Pei Jing searched around the road to his house, and looked around arge area nearby, but didn''t find anyone.


    And things just coincidentally happened this way.


    Pei JianGuo didn''t want to go home. Snowkes began to drift in the cold and dark road. He randomly picked a direction and walked forward along the roadside.


    He also didn''t know where he was going, he just wanted to desperately escape, to escape from that ce that imprisoned him.


    He felt like a homeless wanderer, nowhere was his home.


    Until the alcohol kicked in and hepletely ran out of strength, he also copsed by the roadside.


    The cold air prompted him to wrap his coat around him. Curling his head in his coat, he found afortable position and fell asleep.


    He liked this ce. Although it was a bit cold, there was no one chattering endlessly by his ear, and no one forced him to do things he didn''t like.


    He regretted it.


    He wished Guo Momo woulde back.


    He shouldn''t have bullied her, he shouldn''t have listened to his mother and thought that her maiden family was unreliable anyway, as long as he gave money, they could sell her off in minutes, so she could only rely on him, she couldn''t leave him.


    As long as he suppressed her temper well, she could only listen to him for the rest of her life.


    But she left, she would nevere back!


    The day she left, she told him he really disgusted her. If time could be reversed, she would rather choose to go to the countryside than to meet him again. If he still had a little conscience, then be a little nicer to the child.


    But he had no conscience, he was born conscienceless.


    So Guo Momo left him, and his son also hated him, never calling him dad, and unwilling to get close to him.


    He really was such a failure. People like him probably could only hurt others by being alive!


    Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin passed by here. Gao Dalin was humming a tune, imagining the beautiful future, and said Gao Second Sister was messing around pointlessly.


    She had to go to college back then, and said she would have prospects only if she went to school, but in the end she changed her name, pulled some connections, and even spent a lot of money to have someone take the exam for her. After making a fuss to the end she still didn''t get in, and was criticized badly instead.


    People like them now, brother and sister working together, making money and getting rich together, weren''t they stronger than those who went to college!


    Gao Second Sister listened to his nagging and contemptuously rolled her eyes.


    He didn''t understand shit. Without her leading, Gao Dalin would still be farming thend in the vige, being bullied by others.


    Business sought money, going to college sought power!

 Chapter 352: All Are Breaking Out

    <h4>Chapter 352</h4>


    Money and power have always been inseparable since ancient times.


    If it were not for An ZhiXia disrupting her ns, Gao Second Sister would have guided Gao Dalin to make money through business ording to her ns.


    Before her own graduation, Gao Second Sister would have found some connections to get into a government department. With her capabilities and hard work, it would only be a matter of time before she moved up.


    By then, the two siblings would control both money and power. Who else would dare bully them?


    s, man proposes but God disposes.


    Gao Second Sister thought her ns were wless, but they were disrupted by the appearance of An ZhiXia.


    Strangely, Gao Second Sister had been working hard for the college entrance exam all these years, yet she was not fully confident before the exam. That was why she bribed someone with good grades who had just graduated but was in need to take the exam in her ce.


    Yet An ZhiXia, who had never set foot in school, got admitted. Even if An ZhiXia went back to study hard for these past few years, how much could she have learned?


    Gao Second Sister was very suspicious about this.


    A thought suddenly emerged in her mind.


    Could An ZhiXia also have found someone to take the exam in her ce in order to obtain the diploma, just like herself?


    Just as she was pondering the possibility of this, Gao Dalin had a thought. He saw a man lying on the street with half of his head poking out. His face could not be seen, but he wore a pure ck woolen overcoat and shiny new leather shoes.


    Looking at himself, although he had money now, he was still shabbily dressed.


    Second sister said they had to dress like this to avoid attention. They often came and went in the wind and rain, and although they were in the city, they didn��t even have a house of their own. It would be troublesome if others paid too much attention to them.


    It wasn''t that Gao Second Sister didn''t want to buy a house. It was just unrealistic for them to buy a house in the city with their rural household registration. Signing private contracts was risky in case there was demolition a few yearster.


    Therefore, after careful consideration, they decided to talk about it again in a few years.


    After all, before the real estate boom, housing prices would not rise sharply. They would make money first and get their household registration in the city settled before thinking about buying property.


    At least in the next decade or two, city household registration would bring many more benefits than rural registration.


    Gao Dalin ran over, wanting to take off the man''s clothes and shoes. Pei JianGuo was sleeping soundly. He felt a bit cold but that was his only source of warmth, and he clung onto it tightly, refusing to let go. Gao Dalin couldn''t wrestle it from him and kicked him in annoyance.


    Only then did Gao Second Sister react. She scolded angrily, "Gao Dalin, what are you doing?"


    But by then, Pei JianGuo had already felt the pain. His red eyes snapped open and he red fiercely at the person trying to rob his clothes.


    Everyone bullied him. Even after he had hidden here, they still wouldn��t leave him alone.


    Damn it. He might as well die. It would be best if they all died cleanly.


    "Oh crap, he''s gonna beat someone to death!" Pei JianGuo fought back fiercely. Gao Dalin was hit several times instantly, and one kicknded on his belly. He doubled over in pain and shouted for Gao Second Sister''s help. "What are you staring nkly for? Come and help me quickly. Kill this son of a bitch!"


    Damn, he dared to hit him.


    When Gao Second Sister looked up, she saw a familiar face.


    "Big brother, stop!"


    "Gao Second Sister, who are you helping?"


    After a moment of chaos, Pei JianGuo finally recognized the woman helping him was someone he had met before.


    They meant well. Seeing him sleeping on the main road, they wanted to help wake him up. But they didn''t expect him to kick and punch them when he woke up. It was really embarrassing.


    It was all a misunderstanding. After Pei JianGuo apologized to Gao Dalin, Gao Dalin still refused to forgive him at first. But under Gao Second Sister''s warning gaze, he conceded defeat.


    When Gao Second Sister learned Pei JianGuo didn''t want to go home, she let him stay with Gao Dalin for the night. It was too cold outside after all.


    Pei JianGuo was deeply grateful. His good feelings for the siblings also grew.


    Afterwards, Gao Dalin asked Gao Second Sister puzzledly, "He is the nephew of that Grassy Guy. Why are we helping him? Are you out of your mind?"


    Gao Second Sister disdainfullyughed. "Just do as I say. If your brain isn''t good, don''t ask too much. He is someone who works for the government after all. Building good rtionships with him maye in useful someday."


    Only then did Gao Dalin understand and nodded.


    He knew Second Sister was always eager for profits. How could she help someone for no reason? He almost thought she had taken a liking to the man.


    But it was worrying. Gao Dalin was already in his thirties. Some time ago he had fooled around with a woman, but he was too used to sexy mature ones. The tender young ones didn''t seem to have enough vor.


    Second Sister was thirty now too. Let alone getting married, she hadn''t even been close to a man. He didn''t know what kind of man she could fancy.


    Pei Jing rode his bike around in circles but couldn''t find Pei JianGuo. He had to go back home first.


    Light snow floated outside. An ZhiXia brought a hot water bottle filled with hot water to warm Pei Jing''s hands. "Did you find him?"


    Pei Jing shook his head. "Forget about him. A grown man can''t freeze to death."


    When he thought about it carefully, it was quite irritating indeed.


    But for Pei Jing who had memories of his past life, Pei JianGuo''s behavior was at least still tolerable. Because in his previous life, Pei JianGuo had been even worse.


    Back then, in a few years, Pei JianGuo''s behavior also made big brother bedridden. Pei Jing was forced to take on the responsibility of educating him.


    He had tried all the persuasion and punishments, but couldn''t change that abnormal mindset.


    In this life, Pei Jing didn''t want to manage him anymore or keep bailing him out. As long as Pei JianGuo didn''t break thew, he could do as he wished. If his life was miserable, he had brought it on himself. Pei Jing would not suffer with him.


    Pei Jing had considered educating him early, but the things that needed to be said had already been said. It was no use. He couldn''t tie Pei JianGuo up with a rope either.


    Since Pei Jing spoke like this, An ZhiXia certainly wouldn''t ask any further.


    What should have been a happy Chinese New Year''s Eve was ruined by this incident, and they couldn''t muster any joy at all.


    After all, it was someone else��s business. They had to live their own lives.


    Some timeter, An ZhiXia heard Pei JianGuo was hospitalized, supposedly beaten up by the Lu brothers.


    But it seemed Pei JianGuo was blessed with good luck. Right after returning from the hospital, he beat up Lu Keqin.


    Since then, their lives were never peaceful. News that Pei JianGuo was beaten by the Lu brothers and then Lu Keqin was beaten by Pei JianGuo came frequently.


    It even escted to the public security bureau, but was always handled as a domestic dispute. The neighborhoodmittee had advised them countless times too. Over time, people got used to it.


    As for why they didn''t divorce after beating each other like this, it was truly puzzling.


    Time flew by, and the brief college life soon came to an end.


    It was during this period that the affair between Wang Li and Liu Xuan waspletely exposed. The cause was Wang Li discussing it with her mother at home, and the conversation was overheard by Li Fei when Wang Li was eight months pregnant.


    Around the same time, the grand opening of Liu Xuan and Wu Xiaohua��s Horizon Hotel took ce.

 Chapter 353: Cancelled the plan

    <h4>Chapter 353</h4>


    Because they had not found a suitable location, Zhi Xia gave Wu Xiaohua an idea.


    Jin City was still in an early development stage, so whether it was housing ornd, everything was very cheap. Large tracts of vacantnd were left unused, and served no purpose.


    As long as they could find connections, they could obtainnd from the government at an extremely low cost, thus achieving a win-win situation.


    The design of Huasheng Grand Hotel also came from Zhi Xia''s hand, and she contributed 30% of the funds. Wu Xiaohua held 30%, while the remaining 40% was controlled by Liu Xuan, who was also responsible for subsequent management.


    Liu Xuan did not have a high level of education, but he was literate and harder working than an average person. Such a person would eventually rise above the masses - he justcked an opportunity for someone to give him a hand.


    Zhi Xia found him several books on hotel management. She barely asked about the subsequent construction and recruitment - including Wu Xiaohua, whose role was limited to contributing funds. She waspletely unable to participate.


    Fortunately, Liu Xuan was open-minded. Knowing his own inability, he did not interfere, satisfied to be a shareholder who only collected dividends. It was not bad, and certainly less tiring than Liu Xuan''s job.


    Wang Li had not appeared at school for several days, facing graduation job assignments and divorce from Li Fei.


    Zhi Xia had not deliberately inquired about the matter, but she learned what had happened from Li Fei, and could easily guess the subsequent results.


    Although Li Fei was cheerful and passionate, he also had a temperamental side.


    He had believed they were in a loving marriage, but it turned out to be his wife''s borate scheme - something almost anyone would have trouble epting.


    In the ssroom, the hottest topic recently was everyone''s job assignments after graduation.


    The best oues were civil servants and jobs in public institutions. Slightly worse options were factory cements, but those could still lead to management roles.


    After all, the country had long suffered from a talent shortage. The university students it worked hard to cultivate certainly could not be made to do simple manualbor.


    Of course, they only discussed this spection in private. Their individual preferences did not determine the final assignments.


    After ss, Zhi Xia returned home to find An Jingzhi there as well.


    Over the years, the rtionship between them had improved significantly. Bygones were bygones - no one wanted to bring up those events again. At minimum, they could maintain a superficial calm.


    An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan were alsopensating Zhi Xia. Although they realized she needed little help career-wise or at home.


    Thinking of her siblings, she was actually the least worrisome child. The previously most rebellious fourth child had also settled down after joining the army.


    On the other hand, the most obedient second and third children had caused them no small amount of worry.


    The steady eldest child could only leave his wife and children at home for An Jingzhi and Zhou Nan to help look after.


    Zhi Xia made tea for An Jingzhi. Perhaps out of habit, she had alsoe to enjoy drinking tea - simple preparations slowly savored.


    ��You��re about to graduate from school. What are your ns after getting your work assignment?�� An Jingzhi carefully tasted the tea. The lingering fragrance on his lips and teeth signaled satisfaction, and he put the cup back on the table.


    ��I��ll see what the school arranges,�� Zhi Xia said. ��My grades are decent, so the assignment shouldn��t be too bad.��


    Her original purpose in attending university was to improve her education level, so people wouldn��t assume she was an illiterate when hearing the name An Zhi Xia.


    ��But public institutions don��t allow private business,�� An Jingzhi reminded her. ��That would be impossible to hide, and there��s no need to take the risk. Factories would also take many years to rise up the ranks. Since you already run your own factory, there��s no need.��


    ��Let��s see the school��s arrangements first. I actually prefer developing my own business,�� she replied. She didn��t like rigid jobs, and running her own business was more liberating.


    In addition, with the economy just beginning to open up, not aggressively expanding would be letting herself down.


    ��Your father was thinking, Jin City University will establish an economics department next year. With your business sess in Shen City, you couldpete for a teaching position and work toward an economics professor title after a few years. That certainly wouldn��t hurt.��


    Although An Jingzhi had treated Zhi Xia very unfairly in the past, he now sincerely looked out for her interests.


    ��What about my second brother?�� Zhi Xia asked him.


    ��Your second brother ns to go into politics. With his outstanding academic performance, that shouldn��t pose much difficulty. We can��t intervene on his behalf in Jing City, so his luck is all that remains to be seen.��


    An Jingzhi meant that if Zhi Xia gave it careful consideration, he still had some connections he could leverage, not for selfish reasons. Anyone with helpful connections wouldn��t neglect their own children.


    But Zhi Xia felt secretly pulling strings would be deeply unfair to others.


    ��I still think we should wait and see. I went to university mainly to avoid remaining illiterate in others�� eyes, not because I��m particrly attracted to jobs,�� she said.


    Having lived so long and seen so much, Zhi Xia herself preferred enjoying life when possible without holding extravagant ideals.


    Making money was the foundation of that enjoyment.


    In the end, although she had been eligible for a prosecutorial position, she was assigned a high school teaching job instead because of her beauty and Huasheng Hotel shares. Zhi Xia declined.


    After New Year''s, Zhi Xia visited Shen City again.


    After two or three years, the factory there was very stable, with nationally franchised stores reaching 23 locations and supply volumes remaining steady.


    When Wu Lei learned Wu Xiaohua had opened Huasheng Grand Hotel in Jin City, he was so excited he couldn��t close his mouth, even more thrilled than at his own factory��s establishment.


    After all, no matter how well he did himself, he still hoped his son would aplish more.


    But he also understood most of the credit belonged to Zhi Xia��s support and Liu Xuan��s leadership, not Wu Xiaohua alone.


    However, during this Shen City trip, Zhi Xia discarded ns to open a branch factory.


    The existing Shen City nt wasrge enough, with supply from all regions keeping pace, so a branch was unnecessary.


    What they needed now was product diversification.


    Shen City''s development had reached an considerable scale, attracting many Hong Kong and foreign investors who thoroughly catalyzed fashion trends there. Ladies dressed up borately.


    There was one other piece of wee news - after years of effort, Jiao Yan had secured market share, ounting for a certain proportion of sales. Connections to overseas markets had also been established. In early February, they shipped their first batch of products abroad.

 Chapter 354: Fooled Again

    <h4>Chapter 354</h4>


    Just like when they first set up the factory, as long as the channels could be opened, they were not afraid of failing to open up the market.


    Because makeup products needed to be added, Zhi Xia stayed in Shenzhen for over three months before returning to Jincheng, while things over there had stabilized and Hu Zhou could finallye back, with only Wu Lei still over there keeping watch.


    Zhi Xia and Hu Zhou also each gave 3% of their shares to Wu Lei, bringing his shareholding ratio up to 11%.


    At the same time, Jiao Yan began to set up an R&D department. After all, if they wanted to go far in the long run, they couldn''t rely solely on the forms Zhi Xia gave them.


    Of course, because Jiao Yan mainly sold pure nt skincare, the R&D personnel in the R&D department still had to have a certain pharmacological knowledge.


    Jincheng.


    Not far from Pei JianGuo''s house in a prosperous small Western-style building.


    Gao Second Sister looked at Pei JianGuo distressedly with several scratches on his face, carefully helping him apply medicine with cotton swabs, "JianGuo Brother, you can''t go on like this. Look at your face scratched up, it''s killing me."


    Pei JianGuo sat on the sofa with red eyes and suddenly grabbed Gao Second Sister''s wrist. Looking up at her, his eyes were full of deep affection. "I can''t stand that shrew anymore. Qingcheng, I want a divorce from her. After I get a divorce, will you marry me?"


    Ever since their chance meeting on the street two years ago, after Gao Qingcheng saw his misery, she not only did not ridicule him, but was caring and gentle to him everywhere.


    Pei JianGuo, who felt abandoned by everyone, was very moved. Together with Gao Dalin''s deliberate ingratiation, he quickly became friends with Gao Dalin and naturally also got close to Gao Second Sister.


    The constant contradictions with Lu Keqin made him envy Gao Dalin for having a wife who regarded him as her sky. In fact, it was just a wife he had bought back at a high price.


    Since he had spent a lot of money to buy her back, she was not much different from a purchased wife. In addition, Gao Dalin had made a fortune in the past two years and bought this small Western-style building in Jincheng, so she naturally did not dare to resist Gao Dalin.


    Gao Dalin''s caringfort and deliberate provocation made him feel no affection for Lu Keqin, and now he hated her even more, erupting into battles every other three days.


    And Gao Qingcheng took the opportunity to step in. She didn''t need to do anything at all, just showing her distress was enough to move Pei JianGuo.


    Although the two had never explicitly pierced theyer of propriety, ambiguous messages kepting.


    Pei JianGuo''s sudden confession startled Gao Second Sister. Although she was delighted inside, she didn''t show it on her face at all. On the contrary, she looked rather embarrassed.


    Gao Second Sister hurriedly pulled her wrist back and retreated two steps. "JianGuo Brother, what are you doing? Just because you and my brother are on good terms, and I feel bad for you... I feel bad that you married a shrew, but you say this. If outsiders know about it, they''ll think that I... that I''m shameless seducing a married man. How will others see me?"


    After Gao Second Sister finished speaking, she ran away without giving Pei JianGuo a chance to react.


    Upstairs, Gao Dalin happened to run into the angry and ashamed Gao Second Sister on the stairs. He immediately stared with round eyes, "Second Sis, you cried? What''s wrong?"


    "Brother, I''m fine. Just now a small flying insect got into my eyes by ident. I''m going back to my room to get it out."


    Gao Dalin immediately asked his sister-inw to help, then went downstairs himself. He evenined to Pei JianGuo, "This girl is so impulsive." Then he sighed again, "s, it is said that there are no perfect parents in the world, but seeing Second Sis like this, I feel so distressed too. JianGuo, don''t you think we''re so unlucky that the mistakes my parents made in the previous generation, we siblings have to pay for them all. I''m fine, I''m a grown man and can handle anything, but seeing Second Sis implicated and unable to find a decent family to marry into, this really hurts my heart. Several suitors havee, clearly just trying to take advantage of the bit of money we have now with ulterior motives. I don''t dare marry Second Sis off to them!"


    Gao Second Sister''s rejection just now also discouraged Pei JianGuo, but Gao Dalin''s words emboldened him again. "Dalin, others may not understand you, but their eyes are blind. I... I know what I''m saying is abrupt, but I really like Qingcheng. Can you persuade her to give me a chance?"


    Initially, liking Gao Qingcheng was because in looks and temperament she bore great resemnce to Meiyun, easily arousing his longing for Meiyun.


    But after two years, he realized clearly that he had genuinely fallen for Gao Qingcheng.


    That shrew Lu Keqin was getting more and more excessive, and she couldn''t even have a child. He already had Ping''an, so it must not be his problem, it could only be Lu Keqin''s problem.


    Even if they divorced, it could only be med on her being too difficult, Pei JianGuo thought.


    Gao Dalin looked upstairs, feeling distressed yet awkward as he nodded. "You rascal, if it were anyone else saying this, I would''ve punched them long ago. But these past two years I''ve also seen that Second Sis does have feelings for you. It''s just that you''re already married. I feel bad for Second Sis too... She''s so ill-fated..."


    Pei JianGuo said he wanted a divorce, and almost no one was surprised. Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang were even very supportive.


    In the past two years, it was Lu Keqin who had made them feel it the most.


    Pei Yong was already thoroughly disappointed with this son, and didn''t want to manage his affairs either. Lu Keqin hadn''t left a good impression on him, and without a child binding them, he naturally couldn''t let his heart soften.


    From when Pei JianGuo brought up divorce, Lu''s family came to make trouble every day. Later Pei JianGuo simply went into hiding and no one knew where he had hidden himself.


    Lu''s family found people to kick up a fuss at Pei JianGuo''spany. Pei JianGuo seemed to have suddenly woken up and spent money to hire people to make trouble at Lu''s father''spany, even hiring a pregnant woman. This round of reputation smearing almost cost Lu''s father, the most capable person in the Lu family, his job.


    Of course, Pei JianGuo could not havee up with this himself. When it came to smearing reputations and making trouble, no one had better ideas than Gao Second Sister. The little tricks of the Lu family were simply not enough before her.


    When Zhi Xia came back from Shenzhen, it was already March. By then, Pei JianGuo''s matter had been sensational for half a month.


    What she heard was only that Pei JianGuo was moring for a divorce. She didn''t know about Gao Second Sister''s meddling behind the scenes.


    Since even Pei Yong wasn''t getting involved, there was even less need for it to reach her.

 Chapter 355: Why go smashing up a store

    <h4>Chapter 355</h4>


    ZhiXia thought that if she didn''t get involved, it would have nothing to do with her, but she overlooked the greed and foolishness of human nature.


    On Chenye and Wanqing''s birthday, Pei Jing went out of town and was unable to rush back, but he made a special call on this day.


    Girls grow up faster, and the eleven-year-old Wanqing was already taller than Chenye.


    The two little ones shared a face, fortunately they didn''t have to rely on their hair to recognize them.


    ZhiXia made them a cake with her own hands, and also invited several good friends to help them celebrate their birthday.


    In the years of material scarcity, many people had never eaten cake, especially children, who were very fond of theyer of cream on top.


    Fortunately, the amount wasrge enough, and the dishes were also plentiful, otherwise it really wouldn''t be enough for them to eat.


    Xiao Liang from the store rushed over, "Sister An, something happened in the store..."


    Chenye stood up reflexively, ZhiXia pulled his arm to signal him to sit still and not move, and let Mrs. Zhang continue the celebration with them, before following Xiao Liang out the door.


    On the way, ZhiXia asked her, "What''s going on?"


    "There''s a woman who says she''s your niece, taking things without paying, and we don''t know her either, so of course we can''t just let her take the things away based on just that one sentence, and she also brought quite a few people with her, seven or eight of them selected a lot of things. Sister Xu didn''t let her take them, so they cursed and swore, and even hit Sister Xu," Xiao Liang said.


    Xu Jiamei was the manager ZhiXia had hired for the Qiao Yan store, and Xiao Liang was a sales guide.


    After she gave a rough ount of what had happened, ZhiXia raised her eyebrows.


    Her brother''s children were still young, so she could rule out that possibility. Pei Xiang was now their spokesperson in the store, with posters of her hanging on the walls, and she was also very familiar with the staff.


    And they had signed a contract with the Cultural Troupe in the first ce, with the Troupe responsible for publicity and the store supplying all the skin care products needed by the members of the Troupe, so there was even less chance of any disputes arising.


    Could it be Pei Shuangshuang?


    She wasn''t very familiar with her, and hadn''t seen her show up for New Year''s and festivals over the years either, surely she wouldn''t be so shameless?


    At this point ZhiXia was still thinking that perhaps someone had deliberately said so in order to take advantage.


    But when she arrived at the store, she saw that Xu Jiamei''s face had been scratched several times, the floor was a mess, the shelves had copsed, and quite a few products were also smashed. Several shop assistants were heartbroken and on the verge of tears.


    Those few people said that ZhiXia''s niece wanted a free ride, and Xu Jiamei naturally disagreed. No matter how hard they tried to persuade the other party, they remained stubborn and aggressive, andter even got angry and directly pushed down the shelves before anyone could stop them.


    Seeing that things were getting serious, they had all run away, leaving the store in a terrible mess. Most of the clerks were upstairs serving customers at the time, so they hadn''t been able to stop them in time either.


    Only Xu Jiamei was there, and her face was injured during the scuffle.


    "Sister An, I''m really sorry, I didn''t manage the store properly, and the damaged products..." Xu Jiamei felt bad when she looked at the floor. As the store manager, she should bear a lot of responsibility.


    "Don''t me yourself for now. How''s your face?" When someone wants to deliberately cause trouble, such disputes are inevitable, and it''s not just a matter of whose responsibility it is.


    As for the losses, of course they would have to be borne by the troublemakers, no matter who they were.


    "It''s fine, just a little broken skin." Xu Jiamei was not worried about her face. The store had recentlyunched new products that were just right for scar and blemish removal, so she was well aware of their effectiveness and therefore not concerned.


    "As long as you''re not hurt, that''s good. Did you call the police?"


    "Someone has already gone to the police station to notify them, but I don''t know if they can salvage much of these things." The new merchandise that had just arrived in the store, these two shelves alone, was bound to be a loss of at least one or two thousand.


    Xu Jiamei was also worried that if the perpetrators could not be found, she really could not afford to bear such losses.


    "Then we''ll just wait for the police toe and go from there. By the way, were there any customers in the store when it happened? And upstairs..."


    "There weren''t many people today, only two customers upstairs getting a neck massage. They weren''t hurt, just a little shocked. I took it upon myself to waive their bill for today."


    "Well, you did the right thing," ZhiXia said.


    ZhiXia then inquired about the appearance of those who hade to make trouble, and after the police arrived, told them everything truthfully, including the people she suspected.


    Wang Yue had just eaten lunch at the hospital. Her son and daughter-inw were in the midst of a divorce recently, and her home was in chaos, so she didn''t want to go back either, and felt it was better to hide out here.


    Before she could return to her post, she saw Pei Shuangshuang rushing over in a fluster.


    "Mom... you''ll save me, I''ve caused trouble..."


    Pei Shuangshuang had red eyes and still smelled of alcohol. She ran panic-stricken through the hospital corridor.


    Noticing how others were looking at her, Wang Yue hurried over and pulled her aside, "Pei Shuangshuang, look at yourself, what do you look like? You''re a girl, drinking in broad daylight again?"


    Ever since she was little, Pei Shuangshuang had loved An ZhiXian, and had long fantasized about marrying him. But An ZhiXia had married Pei Jing instead, dashing her hopes.


    Over the years she had been restraining herself, but the more she restrained, the more her heart seemed to stir.


    She wasn''t young anymore, and girls around her age were already married and mothers. She was also anxious, but she really couldn''t forget about him.


    When her eyes opened or closed, all she could see was his figure, his voice and smile.


    She had finally plucked up the courage, only to have itpletely shattered by her father''s admonitions and warnings.


    Sometimes she would think, oh well, let it be.


    Since she couldn''t marry him, life seemed meaningless anyway, so she started self-destructing.


    This was also why Wang Yue med her for drinking again, because it wasn''t the first time.


    "Mom, stop ming me for now, what do I do if I''m in trouble?"


    "What kind of trouble did you get into?"


    Only from Pei Shuangshuang''s description did Wang Yue realize what nonsense Pei Shuangshuang had done. Furious, she reached out and grabbed her ear, "You idiot, do youck the money to buy face cream? And what''s more, you''re a junior, if you really wanted it you could have just asked her straight out. She''s an elder, would she have the audacity to refuse? Now look what you''ve done, wrecking their store and all. What do you think they can do now? Does An ZhiXia have no one to stand up for her? Have you forgotten your uncle''s temper?"


    "What''s the point of saying all this now? Hurry up and think of something for me!" Pei Shuangshuang cried in dismay, "Mom, they won''t report me to the police and arrest me, will they?"


    "No, you''re also surnamed Pei after all. At worst it would be considered a family dispute, and they can''t afford to lose face," Wang Yue stated definitively. But she had forgotten that when she herself made trouble in the past, Old Pei was still alive then.


    Old Pei had passed away many years ago, and no one was obliged to indulge her and her daughter anymore.


    However, thinking of this, Wang Yue suddenly remembered to ask her, "Shuangshuang, everything was good, so why did you go and wreck their store?"

 Chapter 356: To Pay for Your Actions.

    <h4>Chapter 356</h4>


    "I didn''t do it on purpose either, it''s just... I heard that Pei Xiang could get things from her for free, and it wasn''t even about the money for me. I was just upset, and I told the clerk I was her niece but they didn''t believe me. So I just acted rashly without thinking it through..." Pei Shuangshuang finally came to her senses after going out with her friends.


    She was already in a bad mood that day, and after having a few drinks, she wouldn''t have been so arrogant under normal circumstances.


    In addition, when Pei Xiang''s brand was mentioned, her friends all had looks on their faces like "since she''s your rtive, can you get us a discount?", which made her remember that Pei Xiang could get things for free. So she impulsively promised them she could.


    But that clerk didn''t give her any face at all, and with her good friends there watching, plus the alcohol, things just spiraled out of control.


    Wang Yue thought for a moment and advised her, "You still need to get your dad to resolve this. Hurry up and go find him to take you to formally apologize. No matter what, just have a good attitude and don''t let this blow up."


    She knew clearly in her heart that with Pei Yong not around, no one else in the Pei family would pay any attention to her and her daughter. And since it was Pei Shuangshuang''s fault, if things really escted it would be bad for them.


    "Okay, I''ll go now." Pei Shuangshuang ran off in a panic.


    Wang Yue stamped her feet in frustration, asked for time off work, and also prepared to follow along to see what would happen.


    But when she arrived at Pei Yong''s ce, she found out that Pei Shuangshuang had note to see Pei Yong at all.


    Because Pei Shuangshuang had been caught on her way over.


    At that time, Zhi Xia had just seen the police officers out. When Xu Jiamei looked up and saw Pei Shuangshuang running over, she immediately pointed her out.


    She was caught red-handed and taken directly to the police station, without even a chance to talk her way out of it.


    Provoking trouble and assaulting people, plus the damaged merchandise at the store was no small sum either. With all these charges pinned on her, Pei Shuangshuang was looking at having to paypensation.


    Zhi Xiaforted Xu Jiamei and told her to go to the hospital to get her facial injuries appraised.


    She also had the store employees tidy up the mess and take all damaged goods off the shelves, recing them with new items. Qiao Yan pursued a high-end approach and absolutely could not allow wed products to exist.


    By the time she returned home, the children''s little friends who hade over for their birthday party had already gone back. Aunt Zhang had also cleaned up the whole house.


    Seeing Zhi Xia return, Aunt Zhang hurriedly asked in concern, "Zhi Xia ah, what happened? Nothing serious I hope?"


    "It''s fine. Some people caused trouble but they''ve been caught. They''re at the police station now."


    "That''s good they were caught, that''s good they were caught." Only then did Aunt Zhang feel relieved. She cursed, "I say, don''t these useless kids have nothing better to do, going around smashing other people''s shops for no reason? They really have too much free time and have to go make trouble for themselves!"


    "It was Pei Shuangshuang who did it."


    When Zhi Xia spoke these words, Aunt Zhang instantly fell silent, gaping in shock. "Shuangshuang? Why?"


    She also knew this girl. In the past she had been rather petty andpetitive, always wanting the best of everything, and loved topare with Mengmeng and Xiangxiang.


    Ever since her mother got divorced, she hadn''te by this side, so they rarely saw each other and Aunt Zhang could no longer remember clearly when was thest time she saw Pei Shuangshuang.


    "Who knows what she was thinking. In any case, people have to bear the consequences of their own actions, no matter what reason they have." Zhi Xia also felt she must be insane in the head. Forget about giving away her own things to whoever she pleased or not, just based on her attitude towards herself back then, what made her think she could give her things for free?


    "Should this matter be mentioned to Shuangshuang''s father then?" After all, they had quite a good rtionship, especially between the few children and PingAn.


    "I''ll go back and talk to grandfather about it." PingAn happened to walk out from inside the house just then and overheard their conversation. The little guy was short in stature and had delicate features, especially a pair of very spirited eyes.


    There was no denying he had inherited his good looks from Pei JianGuo, and his intelligence came from Guo Momo, while his temperament was inherited from Pei Yong. He had the same cold and aloof manner when facing strangers as Pei Jing.


    Zhi Xia pondered and nodded. "That works too. Just give your grandfather a brief mention, no need to say much."


    "I know."


    She was also somewhat worried Pei Yong might try to shield Pei Shuangshuang. After all, they were still blood father and daughter, as close as flesh and bone.


    But this time, she was determined to teach Pei Shuangshuang a lesson. Having provoked her like this, if she let her off lightly, wouldn''t that just let her be even more unscrupulous in the future?


    When Pei Yong met PingAn on his way over and learned that Pei Shuangshuang had already been arrested, he felt distressed in his heart, but after thinking it over repeatedly, he still chose to leave with PingAn.


    PingAn turned his head in his round eyes to ask Pei Yong, "Grandfather, won''t you ask Stepmother to plead for her?"


    "No need. She''s grown up now and should take responsibility for her own actions." Pei Yong thought, he wouldn''t be able to watch over them for their whole lives either. It was like with Pei JianGuo - he had already done his best to supervise him, and cleaned up the mess for him, yet soon afterward he went and made another mess.


    He was already quite advanced in years with limited energy. If his own children were like this, there was nothing more he could do. The only thing he could do now was raise PingAn well.


    As for Pei Shuangshuang - after learning from this lesson, the next time she acts recklessly she will remember to use her brain and carefully consider what she should and shouldn''t do.


    "PingAn, grandfather knows you''re very smart, but you must remember this: a person may be incapable but cannot be foolish or vicious. My PingAn must grow up to be a responsible man instead of a useless weakling who only ever causes trouble and looks for his elders to clean up after him..."


    "Grandfather, PingAn will work hard, and be top of the ss every year like big uncle..."


    His young self already knew he had no right to bezy.


    Grandfather had already given up so much for him, so he had to work harder to live up to grandfather''s nurturing grace.


    In this year''s final exams, he had tied for first ce with little sixth uncle. He got full marks for Chinese and math, and also received a certificate of merit and a pencil.


    Ever since he started school this year, every time Stepmother bought stationery for several uncles, she would also buy a set for him, and told him to study hard while also keeping nice food for him.


    He didn''t know what he could do, he could only study hard to put their minds at ease.

 Chapter 357: 357 Behind the Curtain

    <h4>Chapter 357</h4>


    Wang Yue found out the next day that Pei Shuangshuang had been arrested and taken to the police station. Ever since Lu Keqin had moved into the house, Wang Yue had applied for a dorm room and often did not go back home to sleep.


    Wang Yue was so angry that her lungs almost exploded. She hurriedly went to find Pei Yong, only to find out that Pei Yong already knew about this but had not taken any measures. This made her yell and scream even more.


    The noise of their argument allowed Zhi Xia to hear everything clearly. However, she did not have peace for long before Wang Yue found her way here, barging in and shouting, "Zhi Xia An, the child is ignorant and you are ignorant too! As an auntie, do you have to be so petty with a child? If you have something to say, can''t you say it nicely? It''s just a small matter yet you called the cops. What kind of elder behaves like this? It''s good her grandfather passed away early. If the old man knew you sent his granddaughter to the police station, be careful or he mighte back in the middle of the night to find you..."


    Zhi Xia looked at the ceaselessly moring Wang Yue, knowing clearly in her heart that arguing with this kind of person would be useless.


    If Wang Yue could be reasonable, she would not have domineered like this for so many years,pletely losing her family without realizing her mistakes, never thinking she did anything wrong.


    Today was Sunday. Fortunately, the kids had just run out earlier so there were only her and Sister Zhang at home.


    Zhi Xia calmly told Sister Zhang, "Sister Zhang, go call the police and tell them there is someone causing trouble."


    Sister Zhang hesitated for a moment, unable to discern whether Zhi Xia was serious or just scaring her. Seeing the determination in Zhi Xia''s eyes, she responded and walked outside.


    "Stop right there, you are not allowed to go!" Wang Yue hurriedly went to obstruct her. Then she turned and cursed at Zhi Xia.


    Zhi Xia said, "If you dare curse one more time, I will have you and your daughter locked up together. You said I don''t act like an elder, so today I really won''t keep up this act. Wang Yue, we are all adults. Think carefully before you act. Did youe here to argue or to save your daughter?"


    Wang Yue was overwhelmed by anger and on top of that got no concessions from Pei Yong. With Zhi Xia''s reminder, she instantly calmed down, breaking out in cold sweat.


    However, she could not bring herself to apologize.


    Pursed her lips and looking again at Zhi Xia''s arrogant manner, she was even more embarrassed.


    "Zhi Xia An, no matter what, Shuangshuang called you auntie for years. There is a saying that family ugliness should not be aired publicly. She was wrong but were you right to directly call the cops?"


    "Let''s not say meaningless things. I''m not elder brother or the old master who can indulge your pestering. She called me auntie for a few times, we''ll leave that aside, but she came to my ce to cause trouble and damage property, that is a fact."


    "But must you be so petty with a child?" Wang Yue could not bring herself to offerpensation. She had not gone there herself but heard from others around her about Yao Yan. She knew a set of skincare products cost at least a few tens, expensive ones even over a hundred. Knocking over two shelves must have cost a significant amount.


    In previous years she had already paid quite a sum to Guo Momo because of Pei Shuangshuang. And in recent years Lu Keqin had also taken some money from her. What she had left now was what she nned to use for her retirement.


    If she had topensate again this time, she would truly be an empty shell.


    "A 27 year old child?" Zhi Xia raised her brows, her words full of sarcasm.


    "Only twenty-seven." Wang Yue corrected.


    In previous years she exaggerated Pei Shuangshuang''s age but now she understated it since an unmarried 27 or 28 year old would be somewhat embarrassing to mention.


    Those unaware might even think there was something wrong with her.


    Wang Yue did not want topensate but also wanted to get Pei Shuangshuang out. Yet Zhi Xia had her bottom line - either pay up or serve time in prison to repay the debt. Zhi Xia would not indulge her.


    After the incident happened for 3 days, the shop had been tidied up and returned to normal. The damaged products were also totaled up, amounting to over 1700 yuan, not including products with damaged packaging.


    Xu Jiamei told Zhi Xia, "Sister An, although these bottles have some nicks and scratches, it does not affect the usage inside. The products for the performing troupe will be delivered again soon. I think we could just mix these in."


    In her perspective, exterior packaging damage did not affect the usage inside. As long as the skincare products worked well inside, it was fine.


    But Zhi Xia firmly rejected this, "No, defective products absolutely cannot get circted, even at discounted prices. Only the good ones can be given to the performing troupe."


    Yao Yan had just developed some scale with great difficulty. They could not fail over these small details.


    "Then what should we do with these?" It would be quite a waste to just throw them away.


    "Let''s use them ourselves. You can help distribute them to everyone as employee benefits." Zhi Xia said, "Also, set aside two sets for me."


    Zhi Xia brought the items home and gave them to Sister Zhang and Mrs. Zhou next door, exining the situation to them. This made the two women beam with joy.


    Pei Shuangshuang was usually extravagant. Although she had worked for many years, the money she saved was very limited.


    Wang Yue was still hesitating, mostlying to coerce Pei Yong. The situation was at a standstill here.


    Zhi Xia was already surprised that Pei Yong came by every few days.


    She only wanted to teach Pei Shuangshuang a lesson and did not intend to really put her in prison.


    If the Pei family produced a convict, it would still impact the children''s reputations to some extent. If not for this, Wang Yue would not dare persist in this stalemate.


    "Elder brother also hopes I''ll let her off?"


    Seeing Pei Yong''s awkward expression, Zhi Xia directly asked.


    "No no no..." Pei Yong quickly waved his hands. "That''s not what I meant. Shuangshuang did something wrong and should be punished, but I am still her father. I can''t truly watch her unable to turn back. Zhi Xia, I hope you can give her another chance. I''m not telling you to just let her offpletely, just don''t leave a mark on her record." As forpensation, this is the punishment she should take and I will persuade her topensate you."


    "I''m not doing this purely for thepensation. Whether it''s Pei Jianguo or Pei Shuangshuang, whenever they did something wrong in the past, someone was always there to cover for them. That''s why they became unscrupulous. Elder brother, I can give you some face but you also need to be prudent about this matter. It''s in my hands this time and you can still plead for her, but what if one day it falls into someone else''s hands and you can''t cover for her? What will you do then?"


    Pei Yong understood everything Zhi Xia said. Otherwise, he would havee earlier, as soon as he found out Pei Shuangshuang was detained.


    Letting her stay at the police station these past few days was also to teach her a lesson.


    Pei Yong went with his daughter to the police station but not to bring Pei Shuangshuang back. He went to negotiate.


    He wanted her to learn a lesson so thepensation had toe from her own pocket.


    When Pei Yong came, he expected Pei Shuangshuang would be unhappy but did not expect she would reach this point yet still refuse to reflect on her mistakes, instead ming him forcking ability as a father.


    Leaving the police station, Pei Yong only felt chilled throughout his body, dizzy and nauseous, with a bloody sweetness rising in his throat.


    On Zhi Xia''s side, the shop had resumed normal operations. After two years of development, this street had also be prosperous, no longer deste like before. All kinds of shops lined both sides of the street, selling different things.


    She had been looking for a location recently. Over the past two years Yao Yan had umted many customers and the factory in Shenzhen was also on the right track. At the end ofst year, under the premise of ensuring normal factory operations, they had obtained the first dividend payout.


    The money Zhi Xia received was a full sixty thousand plus. With overseas sales channels this year, she believed it would be even better.


    The situation persisted for 7 days until Wang Yue sent over thepensation amount and Pei Shuangshuang formally apologized at the police station.


    But upon leaving the police station, the obscure emotions in Pei Shuangshuang''s eyes gave Zhi Xia an ominous feeling.


    "Think more about the consequences before you act in the future. Not everyone has the obligation to tolerate you." This could be considered a warning, hoping that after this lesson she would be wiser next time.


    After Zhi Xia left, Wang Yue had a new realization for the first time. "Shuangshuang, it''s not the same Pei family as before. You can''t rely on your dad either. Listen to me, don''t provoke that woman in the future. If we can''t afford to offend her then we''ll avoid her. I want to see how well she can do in the future!"


    The Riverside Hotel was a leisure venue thatbined dining, rxing and entertainment all in one. It upied a veryrge area.


    In the evening, in a private room.


    Wang Yue intimately held Gao Second Sister''s hand, smiling so widely that wrinkles showed on her face, "Shuangshuang, this time you''d better properly thank your sister-inw. It was all thanks to her helping to raise money, otherwise you wouldn''t have been able to get out."


    "What are you saying, auntie. JianGuo and I have known each other for so long, this is what I should do." As she spoke, a hint of shyness showed on her face, "But Shuangshuang, you should still call me sister, after all, JianGuo and I..."


    "Oh, that''s only a matter of time." Wang Yue went on to admonish Pei JianGuo, "JianGuo, your mother is telling you, you must treat Qingcheng well in the future. If you dare to mistreat her, your mother here won''t let you off."


    Pei JianGuo looked at Gao Second Sister affectionately and said, "Mom, I will."


    This was the life he wanted, a gentle and beautiful wife, and a good rtionship with his mother too.


    Pei JianGuo made up his mind in his heart that he must marry Gao Second Sister home as soon as possible.


    Once he had this thought in mind, he became restless, wishing he could marry her immediately.


    After the dinner, Pei JianGuo sent Gao Second Sister home, and the two of them walked hand in hand on the shady path.


    Pei JianGuo had divorced Lu Keqin for over a month now. At this time, holding a woman''s soft hand inevitably made him feel somewhat restless.


    Despite there being a wide boulevard, he pulled her to walk on a dark alley instead.


    Suppressed voices came from the dark woods.


    "Qingcheng, let''s get married. I like you so much, I like you so, so much..." Pei JianGuo panted, his eyes full of chaos.


    His hot tongue touched her earlobe, making Gao Second Sister shiver instantly, and the amorous look on her face also sobered up slightly.


    She pushed his chest and panted, "JianGuo, didn''t we agree to wait a little longer? You just got divorced not long ago. That woman Lu Keqin is trying to catch you making mistakes everywhere. If we get together now, wouldn''t we be handing her a handle? What if she nders that we were together before your divorce? Then we would have no defense."


    "But I can''t wait any longer. I want you, I want to be with you, I want to see you every morning when I wake up."


    "Wait a little longer, JianGuo. I don''t want you to look down on me. When we get married, I''ll give myselfpletely to you. Just wait a little more..." Gao Second Sister lightly bit his chest with her teeth, and her hand slid down his waist and lower abdomen, "I know it''s hard on you. Let me help you, and you help me too..."


    They''d had this kind of intimacy before. They just hadn''t broken through the final barrier.


    She just wanted to take advantage of Pei JianGuo. She also thought he was handsome, so she wanted to enjoy it along the way. Of course she wouldn''tpletely give herself to him.


    After all, she was a person, an adult, and would have the needs of an adult.


    She didn''t understand these desires before, nor longed for them so much. But Pei JianGuo had given her a different experience, making her feel something she couldn''t grasp for the first time.


    She thought that after things were over with Pei JianGuo, she should seriously find a man for herself.


    Pei JianGuo wouldn''t work.


    This man was handsome and good at pleasuring people, but his family was a mess, and he had a son and two failed marriages with his wives. She didn''t want to get stuck in the quagmire.


    It was pitch ck in the small woods, and no one knew what was going on inside.


    Gao Second Sister returned home disheveled. Of course she couldn''t hide it from Gao Dalin''s eyes.


    He stopped her leaving footsteps, staring wide-eyed at the dark red marks on her neck, "Second sister, didn''t you say you wanted to take advantage of Pei JianGuo? You didn''t really give yourself to him, did you?"


    Even he looked down on Pei JianGuo. Although his family was quite well-off, Pei had no say at home. From his understanding, Pei couldn''t offer any help to him either.


    Marrying into the Pei family meant she wouldn''t need to worry about food and drink, but with what she and her siblings had umted over the years, she didn''t just want to not worry about food and drink.


    "What are you thinking? Could I be interested in him?" Gao Second Sister said disdainfully.


    Although Pei JianGuo''s service did make her veryfortable. He was indeed an experienced man.


    "Then you..."


    "Stop minding my business and focus on yourself!" Gao Second Sister looked warily upstairs and warned, "Use your brains where they should be useful, don''t let that two inches of meat between your legs shake and reveal everything. You should know, the only reason you have such a pretty wife is because you have money. Without money you''re nothing."


    "Don''t worry about that. Apart from sleeping with her, I haven''t revealed anything we''re doing to her at all. I told her they were all legitimate businesses."


    "As long as you know." Gao Second Sister wearily went upstairs, her legs still weak from the intense stimtion.


    Pei Shuangshuang was also useless. She provoked her to make trouble for An Zhiya, but didn''t expect her to be so stupid as to attack her directly without really harming her, and got herself in trouble instead. She really didn''t know what to say about her.


    If not for her unwillingness to let An Zhiya ruin her ns to go to college, she really wanted to stay far away from her, and they could have minded their own business.


    Since she insisted on opposing her, then don''t me her for being ruthless.


    Marrying Pei JianGuo was out of the question. She needed to think carefully about where to utilize this next move.

 Chapter 358: 358 Two Lives

    <h4>Chapter 358</h4>


    ��Mom, are you ready yet? My brothers have already left!�� Pei Chenyou was getting impatient and started urging her.


    ��Alright, alright, I''ming out.�� Zhi Xia helplessly responded and hurriedly put on her shoes before walking out.


    ��Sister Zhang, we are leaving first. Remember to lock the door when you go backter.��


    ��Oh, I know. You guys go ahead.��


    Today was the 100-day celebration for Fourth Brother''s youngest daughter. He had speciallye back from the army.


    There were no other people, just one table booked at the Huasheng Hotel for their big family to celebrate.


    Wanqing went with her great-grandfather, while Chenye took his three younger brothers running. Zhi Xia was thest one to leave the house, riding a bicycle with Little Six, and Ping''an sitting in front.


    Little Six was the only single birth child at home. He spent all day with Ping''an, who was a few months younger than him. Not knowing they were uncle and nephew, they thought they were real brothers.


    When they arrived at the entrance of Huasheng Hotel, Zhi Xia parked her bicycle at the designated parking area before pulling Little Six and Ping''an to go in.


    In the hotel lobby, she happened to see Wang Li facing Liu Xuan saying something, while Wu Xiaohua had a disdainful expression beside them.


    Wang Li had her back facing Zhi Xia. Liu Xuan was much taller than Wang Li, so he just happened to nce at Zhi Xia. He nodded slightly at her.


    Zhi Xia also nodded lightly. She continued walking forward, pulling Little Six and Ping''an along without stopping her pace.


    Sensing Liu Xuan''s abnormal behavior, Wang Li looked back and saw Zhi Xia''s leaving figure.


    In the private room, a table that could seat over 20 people was crammed full, with some children having to stand in the gaps between stools as there was no more space.


    Zhi Xia said some endearing words and handed the small gold bracelet she had prepared for An Zhiang to him. With so many people, he didn''t open it but put it straight into his bag.


    Behind them was a small table full of gifts from the elders to the children, piled high with quite a lot.


    With the country''s opening up, people were no longer as low-key as before. They didn''t avoid havingvish weddings like in the past. With the people''s love for lively events, they liked to celebrate things big and small.


    "I really didn''t notice before. I thought Zhi Xia would start working after graduating from university. I didn''t expect she would go into business and do quite well. This Huasheng Hotel is currently the biggest hotel in our city. I heard you even have a share in it. In the future when our familyes, you''ll have to give us the VIP discount." Liu Ling joked with a smile.


    "Sister-inw, don''t joke about it. I only invested some idle money. I''m not involved in managing the hotel operations. But if youe to dine here in the future and give them my name, I''m sure you can get the VIP discount."


    "I was just joking, don''t take it seriously. Otherwise, I would feel too embarrassed toe again."


    Liu Ling was also someone who cared about face. Of course, she wouldn''t ask for discounts over such a small matter.


    This was also why the family could still get along harmoniously despite knowing she had such thoughts.


    Everyone acts in their own interest, but those who care about face have reservations. With reservations, they would contemte more before acting. Unlike Wang Yue and Pei Shuangshuang who didn''t care and were used to others giving in to them. When no one was willing to give in to them anymore, the ones eating the loss would still be them in the end.


    In this aspect, Pei JianGuo was also an oddball. He always showed his sharp side to his family, yet was always concerned about face when dealing with outsiders and friends, and acted with restraint.


    So as his wife and daughter, it was truly exhausting. This was probably also one of the main reasons why Guo Momo could no longer tolerate it.


    The elderly grandfather and grandmother were over 80 years old. With their advanced age, they didn''t eat much, just wanted to have fun.


    Halfway through the meal, they left first, saying they wanted to walk around the courtyard.


    When they first acquired thend, it wasn''t considered expensive. Liu Xuan was also someone who listened to advice and was bold. His original n was to sell part of thend after acquiring it, but he kept it all under Zhi Xia''s persuasion.


    Therefore, Huasheng Hotel upied arge area ofnd. There was also a scenic area and recreational facilities built in the backyard. Even without dining, it was still nice to stroll around here.


    Of course, apart from the hotel guests, the interior was not open to the public.


    After the event ended, An Zhiang drove the elderly and children home first, while the others also returned to their respective homes.


    Zhi Xia walked on the road with the twins. With sufficient food and care growing up, the 11-year-old children were already 1.6 meters tall, almost as tall as Zhi Xia.


    Chenye was steady and clever. He had just graduated from middle school this year. She didn''t want him to skip grades next, feeling he was still too young. With older ssmates if he advanced too quickly, he might not fit in well.


    But the child had his own opinion about schooling.


    Pei Jing had talked to him before, and in the end came back to persuade her to be more open-minded and trust their child''s abilities. He could handle it.


    Byparison, Wanqing was very stable. Apart from skipping a grade in elementary school, she had progressed very smoothly. She oftenined that her brother advanced too quickly, making her look stupid when she was also at the top of her ss.


    Walking not far from Huasheng, Wang Li had been waiting here for a long time. She knew this was the road Zhi Xia must take to go home.


    She happened to give birth near graduation and was quarrelling with Li Fei a lot then. Her originally good grades should have gotten her a very good job, but her performance wasn''t great at graduation due to this. In the end, she only got an average job and was assigned as an ountant at a textile factory.


    Later, her rtionship with Li Fei became increasingly rigid. It was as if he had be a different person, with his attitude towards her changing unpredictably. Even to their newborn child, he didn''t look once.


    He even suspected this child was not his.


    No matter what she said or how she exined, he refused to believe her.


    Zhi Xia also saw Wang Li standing in front, gazing straight at her. She was clearly waiting for her.


    "Chenye, Wanqing, wait here for mom for a while. Mom has something to talk about with thatdy in front." Zhi Xia instructed the two children.


    "Okay."


    After the children acknowledged, she walked forward.


    "Zhi Xia, long time no see." Wang Li had gained some weight, looking haggard. She seemed weak,pletely unlike her former vivacious self.


    "Yes, long time no see." Zhi Xia looked at her, not knowing for a moment whether to say she brought this upon herself.


    Wang Li pulled the corner of her mouth into what was meant to be a smile, but it couldn''t help having some bitterness mixed in.


    She stiffly put away her expression, thinking her smile must have looked terrible.


    "I''m sorry." Even till now, Wang Li sincerely said this. "I was too impulsive back then. I didn''t know if what I was doing was right or wrong either. I was just very afraid, afraid of going back to the countryside, afraid Liu Xuan wouldn''t let me off, so I desperately wanted to hold on to something..."


    So she had deceived Li Fei, and was now suffering the consequences.


    Although not yet divorced, Li Fei''s disregard made her unable to continue staying with her inws. Her parents-inw knew about her past and didn''t look kindly on her, even disliking the child.


    Her mother who had urged her to firmly grasp Li Fei, now said she had raised a useless daughter. Other people''s daughters were so filial after marrying out, while she was useless and kept dragging her parents down.


    Thinking back now, only Zhi Xia had sincerely advised her.


    If she had listened to her advice then not to deceive Li Fei, and given up when there was no more possibility with Liu Xuan, with her university degree she would have had a bright future after graduation, unlike now. Dragging a newborn child, she felt exhausted physically and mentally. Unable to do her job well, and unable to care for the child properly.


    She felt her entire life was aplete mess created by herself.


    She had wronged Liu Xuan and her daughter, and also wronged Li Fei and her newborn child. Everything was her fault, and she didn''t even know what had gotten into her to end up like this!


    Zhi Xia thought for a while, then walked up and patted Wang Li on the shoulder. "You don''t need to apologize to me. You didn''t wrong me either. Wang Li, you''re a university graduate. You have the ability to live well relying on yourself, not cing all your hopes on a man."


    Wang Li thought that since Liu Xuan came to find her today, it meant that things were not working out with Li Fei and she wanted toe back.


    But she didn''t know that today she didn''te to cling onto Liu Xuan. She just came to sincerely apologize and also wanted to see the daughter she had selfishly abandoned.


    Liu Xuan epted her apology but didn''t want to let her see the child.


    Back then, holding onto the hope that Wang Li woulde back and they would be reunited, even when she left for a year at school, Liu Xuan insisted on having the child look at her photo every day, for fear that when they met again one day, the child would be estranged from her mother.


    But Wang Li''s heartlessnesspletely crushed his hopes. After taking over custody of the child, he also stopped showing the child Wang Li''s photos, instead lying to her that her mother had passed away.


    Anyway, over the past few years, Wang Li had never once visited her, and the child had gone from being heartbroken at first to gradually epting it, and now never asked about her mother.


    The child was young with a bad memory. Liu Xuan didn''t want Wang Li to reappear in the child''s life, lest it hurt her.


    His considerations also made some sense. So Wang Li was persuaded.


    There was no longer any possibility between her and Liu Xuan. Even if she was willing, he would no longer want her. Why upset the child again?


    Zhi Xia could see Wang Li''s dejection but didn''t know this would be thest time they met.


    If she had known, she would have definitely stopped her!


    After parting with Wang Li, Zhi Xia took the two children home.


    The next afternoon, the police from the station came asking her to go to the police station to assist in the investigation. Sister Zhang was so frightened she immediately went next door for help.


    An Zhi Ang was still at home and hurried out. By the time he got to the door, Zhi Xia had also walked out with them.


    He took out his military officer ID and spoke up, "Comrade police officer, I don''t know what crime my sister hasmitted. Is there some misunderstanding?"


    If it were a few years ago, he would have blocked people without asking. As one grew older, one''s mind matured too, and he had long passed the rash age.


    An Zhi Ang held a senior position in a special department of the military. Naturally, the police officer would give him some face.


    "This militaryrade has misunderstood. Last night a woman hugged a child andmitted suicide. Eyewitnesses can prove that the woman saw Anrade before she died. So we need Anrade toe assist in the investigation."


    An Zhi Ang looked at Zhi Xia in puzzlement. She had already spoken up, "Was it Wang Li?"


    "That''s right."


    Zhi Xia''s eyes were slightly red. She would never have imagined that everything had changed, yet Wang Li still could not escape her fate in their previous life.


    Or rather, this was just her personality. Even without those events happening, when faced with other difficulties, she would still make the same heartless choice.


    And...she took a baby who had just been born a few months ago with her.


    Hearing the name Wang Li, An Zhi Ang felt it was somewhat familiar, as if he had heard it somewhere before.


    But something from many years ago, and just a passing acquaintance at that, certainly hadn''t left much of an impression on him.


    At the police station, Zhi Xia happened to run into Liu Xuan on his way out.


    He was still dressed as he wasst night, but had long lostst night''s high spirits.


    He surely also never imagined that Wang Li would take such an extreme path.


    If he had known earlier, he would have stopped her. Even if he couldn''t stop her, he wouldn''t have refused her request to see their daughter so heartlessly.


    Li Fei also came out from inside, looking utterly disheveled and unsteady on his feet as if he could copse at any moment.


    The two dead were his wife and daughter.


    Even though he hated her for deceiving him, he had never thought of wanting her dead, let alone wanting their child dead.


    Li Fei hated himself. Even if Wang Li was at fault, their child was innocent. He should not haveshed out in anger with words to attack her, to attack their child.


    His daughter, she had just been conceived when he was overjoyed at the thought of her birth, poring through dictionaries to pick out a name for her.


    Yet he had heartlessly driven them to death!


    Ultimately, none of them were wicked people, just lost souls who made a heartless choice in their confusion, leading to lifelong tragedy and regret.


    Zhi Xia gave her ount at the police station of her conversation with Wang Li yesterday. Since there wasn''t much said, she could clearly recall every word without omitting anything.


    Exiting the police station and looking up at the clear blue sky outside, she couldn''t shake off the gloom in her heart.


    The woman who had been speaking before her just yesterday had be a corpse today.


    She heard Li Fei hadn''t been home for some time. Wang Li had taken the child outst night while her mother-inw assumed she had gone back to her maiden home, so she didn''t try to stop her.


    Then this morning, her and the child''s bodies were found floating in the river. The child was tied to her chest with a rope. Mother and daughter had ended their lives this way.


    Zhi Xia didn''t see Wang Li and the child''s corpses but knew what drowned bodies would look like.


    Li Fei still hadn''t left outside the police station. Seeing Zhi Xia emerge, he looked at her helplessly, not knowing if he was speaking to her or to himself. "I never meant to drive her to death, Zhi Xia. You know me. I chased her for so long. I truly loved her. But she deceived me and I just couldn''t get over it in my heart. But I never thought of making her die..."


    Wang Li''s parents had been called over. At the sight of Li Fei they rushed over with contorted faces to grab and tear at his clothes. "It''s all because of you. You drove my daughter and granddaughter to death, you beast worse than animals. She gave birth to your child. Didn''t you know yourself whether the child was yours? If you hadn''t ndered her like this, she wouldn''t have been driven to despair by you..."

 Chapter 359: 359 Who Is Right and Who is Wrong, The Past is like a smoke.

    <h4>Chapter 359</h4>


    Li Fei''s face was scratched all over, his whole body was torn back and forth, and he did not know to resist.


    The police officer who brought them over pulled people away before giving Li Fei a chance to breathe.


    Wang Li''s mother was still shouting, "Li Fei, you killed your own wife and daughter. Can your conscience let you go? Why don''t you go die? You should go with them, mother and daughter. You will never escape the condemnation of your conscience in your life. You are less than a beast. My god, look, why don''t you strike him dead..."


    Li Fei was helped up by the police next to him, and his whole head was buzzing.


    Wang Li��s mother��s words were like curses, drilling straight into his head, making him feel that he was wrong not to die.


    Liu Xuan, who was smoking on the side, couldn''t stand it anymore. He walked over coldly and questioned Wang Li''s mother, "You''re wrong. It wasn''t anyone else who killed your daughter, it was you yourself who forced her to abandon her husband and daughter. Do you still remember what you said when I found your family? You said that even if your daughter married a beggar in Jincheng, you would not let her marry a country bumpkin. You forced her to swear that she would never care about me again, believing that she used deceitful means to remarry someone else. You must have given a lot of ideas, right? Olddy, the one who killed your daughter was no one else, but you yourself!"


    Wasn''t Liu Xuan angry?


    He had lived with Wang Li for a few years and knew her quite well.


    She was not a decisive person, but was easily influenced by those around her.


    Although life was hard in the countryside, they were also happy. They had agreed to share the bitterness and be together for life.


    He had sent many letters to the address Wang Li left ording to the address, but never got a reply. Not until he came here did he know that Wang Li had never received them. It was not difficult to guess where those letters had gone.


    If it was one or two letters, it could be exined by losing them. But it was impossible for so many letters to get lost. So someone must have intervened.


    And the one who intervened was Wang''s family.


    Human feelings are very strange. When together, they love each other to death, but even the most love cannot withstand the erosion of time.


    Long-termck of contact will make people suspicious and feelings will slowly fade until finally disappearing.


    And at this time, if someone gives some suggestive words, it is easy to confuse people.


    Wang Li was not firm enough in her temperament to begin with, and after being persuaded by her family, she was too easily influenced.


    "What are you talking nonsense? How could I harm my own daughter?" Wang Li''s mother had never been a weak woman, unwilling to give in and said, "It was clearly you who were the culprit. If she had not married and had a daughter with you in the countryside, how could she have fallen into today''s situation? It was all your fault."


    "If she hadn''t married me in the countryside, she would have been bullied by local gangsters long ago. Do you think a beautiful girl alone in the countryside would have a better life?" Liu Xuan said with a cold smile, "I was wrong, wrong that I didn''te to Jincheng to find her earlier, and wrong that I shouldn''t have reluctantly agreed to let here to take the university exam. Are you not wrong? If it weren''t for your constant pressure on her, unwilling to let her be with me, no matter how hard our life was, she wouldn''t have taken the extreme path. You are the real culprit, so what right do you have to me others?"


    The noisy quarrel outside the police station attracted many onlookers. People talked about it while watching the excitement. There were also people in the know discussing that this was the family of the woman who jumped into the river with her childst night.


    The police began to disperse the crowd and stop their noisy quarrel.


    Wang Li''s parents also regretted it. They had to admit that Liu Xuan was right.


    No matter how little feeling they had for their own daughter, it was impossible to have no feelings at all.


    But their daughter chose tomit suicide, taking her newborn child with her.


    Others were wrong, but the most wrong person was still them. They had forced her to this point today.


    Wang Li��s mother couldn��t help but recall her daughter''s happy smile when she first mentioned her rural home and child after returning home.


    Even when she first tried to stop her from contacting the countryside, she had violent resistance. It was only after a long time that she was slowly persuaded to reach today.


    Wang''s mother regretfully pped herself. The "pop pop" sound was enough to prove her regret in her heart.


    If she could do it again, she would rather be the one dead.


    But there was never regret medicine in this world. People were gone and could nevere back.


    Zhi Xia also reflected on herself.


    Even if Wang Li and Li Fei had gotten a marriage certificate, she could have told the truth at that time and let Li Fei make a choice before the child was born. Maybe things would not have developed to today''s situation.


    But she felt Wang Li had bad character, and she also felt things were already set in stone. Telling the truth at that point would only increase distress on both sides, so she chose to ignore it.


    She also bore responsibility for Wang Li��s suicide. This realization made Zhi Xia feel depressed.


    When An Zhiang returned home, he was scolded by his grandmother, "Your sister was taken away by the police. Didn''t you know to go with her? She''s a girl. What if she gets scared?"


    When being scolded, he had just taken his daughter from his wife. He had finallye back for a few days and had to hold her more.


    But after being reminded like this, An Zhiang realized there was some truth to this.


    He handed his daughter back to his wife and said, "Hold her first. I''ll go pick up my little sister."


    Seeing him run out the door in a panic, Su Ying was still exining to the olddy, "You don''t know him yet. He''s always crude. How could he pay attention to these things?"


    The olddy sighed. Hearing that An Zhiang said it also involved a dead person, she didn''t know if it was a big problem or not.


    She only hoped it had nothing to do with her granddaughter. The first half of this child''s life had eaten up all the bitterness of this life. The second half should go smoothly and carefreely.


    When An Zhiang arrived outside the police station, he happened to see a whole drama unfold. He walked to Zhi Xia and asked her, "What happened? Are you okay?"


    Zhi Xia shook her head, "It''s fine now. Let''s go home."


    When they got home, they were met with care and concern from grandparents again.


    The death was like amp going out, and the events of the past also passed away like clouds and smoke.


    Zhi Xia was also invited to Wang Li''s funeral.


    Since she was a married daughter, she could not be buried in her natal family''s grave. In addition, the guilt from the two lives lost also made Li Fei realize how ridiculous his previous entanglement had been.


    And this matter, which could not be clearly attributed as anyone''s fault or me, would forever be an uncrossable mark in his heart, affecting his entire life.


    The Jincheng Daily widely reported on this matter, which also brought great influence to Li Fei''s life, including inflicting harm on his parents amid endless rumors.


    No one talked about Wang Li''s fault in cheating marriage anymore, because she was dead. The dead took priority, so all me had to be borne by the living.


    Although she left a suicide note that she resented no one and only regretted her previous harm to others, no one would care about such things.


    It waster that she found out Li Fei had sold the house here and left with his parents.


    As for where he went, he didn''t tell anyone.


    In June, after half a year of hesitation and investigation, Zhi Xia finally decided to enter the household appliance industry.


    There was currently an extremeck of appliances on the market, not to mention that prices were also very expensive, and product variety was very limited.


    She asked Wu Lei to help contact Hong Kong merchants with connections, preparing to assembleponents first. The reason she made this decision was also the news Wu Lei revealed that there were already several small workshops in Shenzhen''s side.


    Jincheng was at an early stage of development, withrge tracts of vacantnd. Zhi Xia had her eyes on the plot not far from the textile factory next door.


    It was a veryrge vacant lot that nearby residents used to grow vegetables, but this plot ofnd belonged to the government. It was originally allocated to the textile factory for expansion in previous years but was never built, so it was left vacant.


    Buyingnd already had channels. Liu Xuan had spent a lot of effort finding people from the government back then. In fact, Pei JianGuo worked in the government. No matter how high or low his position was, it would definitely be most convenient to ask him for help, but Zhi Xia was unwilling to get entangled with him and might as well ask Liu Xuan for help.


    The traditions the Chinese people have left behind for thousands of years are talked about at the dinner table.


    This time it was Zhi Xia who talked in person, with Liu Xuan apanying her. Since she had decided to take this path, she would inevitably have to frequently deal with such asions in the future, and she couldn��t have others stand up for her every time.


    The 5 mu of vacantnd, not even half the area of the Hua Sheng Hotel, was sold at the same price as thend under the Hua Sheng Hotel when it was first sold.


    The reason being, the state had already issued orders for Jincheng to be named one of the four pilotmodity housing sales cities, and real estate was to be aggressively developed next, withnd prices naturally unable to bepared to before.


    In just half a year, prices had doubled, making Liu Xuan grateful that he had listened to advice and was willing to spend more money to obtain thend.


    Not to mention the profits to be made after opening the Hua Sheng Hotel, just leaving this piece ofnd barren for now had doubled in value.


    Since it was a transaction, the other party couldn''t just name any price they wanted. After some bargaining back and forth, another 10,000 yuan was saved, and the 50-year lease for this plot ofnd was finally obtained for 150,000 yuan.


    Pei JianGuo didn��t know if something was wrong with his eyes, but he actually saw Zhi Xia at his workce!


    He saw her enter his supervisor��s office with a man, and they were even weed in by the secretary. When they came out, the secretary was also extremely polite.


    "What are you doing here?" Pei JianGuo walked over in surprise and asked.


    The secretary who had seen them out was also very surprised to see Pei JianGuo familiar with them, "You guys know each other?"


    "I''ve met them before."


    "She��s my aunt."


    Zhi Xia and Pei JianGuo spoke at the same time.


    The secretary was even more surprised. Zhi Xia quickly exined, "In the family hierarchy I''m a bit senior, I didn''t expect to meet my junior family member here today either, hope I didn''t make youugh."


    "No, not at all." The secretary was just very surprised. Since they were rtives, it was odd that Zhi Xia had brought an outsider she didn''t know to facilitate this.


    The contract had already been signed, and Zhi Xia did not intend to exin too much before taking her leave.


    After she left, the secretary looked at Pei JianGuo with a smile, and said, "Secretary Pei sure keeps a low profile, huh."


    There were ranks even amongst secretaries, and it was obvious Pei JianGuo was one of the more inconspicuous ones.


    Zhi Xia was a shareholder of Hua Sheng, and was now also handling the appliance factory, so this rtionship breakthrough also indirectly gave Pei JianGuo a leg up, at the very least making upper management see his value.


    But there were still some dubious points. If their rtionship was good, why did Zhi Xia seem like she didn''t want others to know of their connection, and it was Pei JianGuo who had blurted it out instead. Also with thend purchase, she hadn''t sought Pei JianGuo��s help either.


    It had to be said, things were different from previous years now, all local governments were moring for investments, and anyone who could find connections was making political achievements.


    Zhi Xia didn''t know this trip would dredge up so much, otherwise she really would have just let Liu Xuane instead.


    With thend contract signed, she sank into even busier days.


    From building the factory warehouses, to getting all sorts of approvals and permits, she had to handle everything personally.


    In between, she specially took a trip to Shenzhen, to sign a shipment contract with the suppliers from Hong Kong.


    The Hong Feng Appliance Factory waspletely constructed sessfully in November of the second half of the year. To save money, many items were provided from the modern ne, but it wasn��t possible to purchase everything from the nar tform, she still had to keep up appearances that everything was aboveboard.


    The factory had just been set up, the initial development was crucial.


    Zhi Xia designated electric fans to be the first product assembled, and all necessaryponents were also transported in batches by the transport team, now all that was left was hiring workers for assembly. As long as everything went smoothly, they wouldpletely make the market demand for electric fans before next summer��s heat wave.


    Just as everything was going smoothly on her end, Pei JianGuo asked Gao Second Sister about getting married again.


    But the result was the same as before, still rejected, although she gave reasons for her refusal, Pei JianGuo still felt awful.


    It was clearly her who had first shown feelings towards him, leading him step by step into her trap, and even made him willing to pay a huge price to get divorced for her sake.


    Gao Second Sister had always been very good to him, never rejecting his touches, although they never actually crossed the final line, which Pei JianGuo was quite dissatisfied about, but still made allowances because she was a woman who valued her chastity.


    But she just refused to register their marriage no matter what he said.


    Pei JianGuo couldn��t help but start having doubts. Did Gao Second Sister really love him as much as he thought?


    Also, was she paying too much attention to Zhi Xia��s matters?


    He knew their past rtionship, and was even willing to stand up against his father and uncle for her sake, but Gao Second Sister��s repeated rejections inevitably started to wear down his enthusiasm, no matter how ardent he was.


    Returning home from Gao Second Sister��s ce, Wang Yue urged him again, ��How was it? Did Gao Second Sister agree to marry you?��


    Pei JianGuo shook his head dejectedly, no longer wanting to talk.


    ��You��re so stupid, it��s been so long since the divorce and you still haven��t brought her home as a bride. I heard there��s family nning campaigns being forcibly implemented in many ces this year, you can��t keep dragging this out, or it��ll be difficult to have kids in the future.��

 Chapter 360: 360 Can鈥檛 control Himself.

    <h4>Chapter 360</h4>


    ��It''s not that I don''t want to get married, it''s that she doesn''t want to marry me. What can I do about it? Mom, I''m already over 30, can you please stop meddling with me? Do you know how annoying you are?��


    It was rare for Pei JianGuo to lose his temper like this. It was only because too many vexatious things had piled up that he would be irritated.


    Wang Yue also didn''t expect him to speak to her like this. She remembered thest time her son had spoken to her this way was when he was determined to marry Guo Momo.


    She was stunned for a moment, a hurt expression shing across her face.


    Pei JianGuo also realized his slip of the tongue. He impatiently pped his own cheek and guiltily said, ��I��m sorry, Mom. I know I shouldn��t have said that. But I don��t know what got into me. I feel very annoyed and I��m about to lose control of myself.��


    ��It��s alright, son. Mom understands you. Mom is just worried about you and afraid that Gao Qingcheng doesn��t truly want to marry you and is just stringing you along. And there is also this year��s family nning policy that makes my heart thump...��


    ��I already have PingAn,�� mentioning his son who had recovered, a trace of softness shed across Pei JianGuo��s face, and his emotions stabilized a lot.


    Ever since Guo Momo left, he had been trying to reconcile with his son. Perhaps the deprivation in childhood was too severe, and PingAn still wasn��t very close to him.


    When it came to that grandson, Wang Yue was definitely also distressed, but she also had her own worries. ��PingAn is a good kid and smart too, but unfortunately his mom had already led him astray when he was little, and he��s not close to us at all. I made some clothes for him and sent them overst time, but the brat actually refused to take them. And you dad, he doesn��t help plead our case at all either, he just watches as the child bes more and more estranged from us.��


    ��Alright alright, let��s not talk about this anymore. I��m exhausted after a long day and annoyed to death,�� said Pei JianGuo. His work had been going alright recently. He also realized that his superiors were obviously giving him some preferential treatment. Many things that he previously didn��t have ess to, he could now get involved in.


    He also wanted to vigorously perform well, but the mess in his personal affairs caused him to be irritable again, which was also clearly reflected in his work.


    At lunch today, he had been criticized harshly, and then was rejected when he proposed in the afternoon. And when he got home he still had to bear Wang Yue��sints, so it was no wonder he was bing more and more impatient.


    The recruitment notice for the electrical appliance factory had just been posted when torrential rain started pouring down.


    Today, over 20 people had been recruited in total. Two high school students made Know Summer quite satisfied. There was also a educated youth who had returned from the countryside that she nned to groom for a management position in the future.


    But it was currently the twelfth lunar month, so official operations would not start until after New Year��s.


    She held a ck umbre and parked her bike in the factory, preparing to walk home on foot.


    The rain grew heavier, pelting loudly on the umbre.


    She could clearly feel that her shoes werepletely soaked, her pant legs were also half drenched, cold and clinging to her body, making her shiver a little.


    All the children at home had started school. The weather had still been sunny when they left home in the morning, and none of them had brought an umbre.


    Although the several children could all enter the space, they couldn��t bring anything out from inside.


    Chenye had entered high school in the new semester. With An Jingzhi there, she didn��t need to worry, but Wanqing was still in middle school. The triplets and Xiaoliu were all in elementary school. She also didn��t know if Sister Zhang would make it in time to bring them umbres.


    Although there was Liu Ling, there were too many children and she was afraid Sister Liu couldn��t handle them.


    Just as she was feeling anxious, a car suddenly stopped beside her.


    The car window rolled down and Pei Jing called to her, "Stop dawdling and get in quickly."


    Know Summer opened the car door and got in, bringing a chill with her damp clothes.


    Pei Jing looked at her half-wet garments distressedly. His hands were on the steering wheel but he didn��t dare let go. He could only ask caringly, "Even if you''re busy, don''t neglect your health in the moment. It''s raining so hard, you should pay more attention to yourself."


    "I know, it just suddenly started pouring when the weather was still nice and sunny this morning. No one expected this,�� Know Summer exined. ��When did youe back? Why didn''t you go pick up the kids first?"


    "I just got home and heard Sister Zhang say you were over here, so I came after Wanqing had taken the kids home. Sister Zhang went to bring umbres to those little ones. I came to get you.�� He spun the steering wheel. ��Boys can''t be pampered too much. Braving the rain to get home by themselves builds character. There are many other families out there with no one to bring umbres. The kids run home through the rain themselves."


    "I didn''t pamper them. It''s just that catching a cold is easy when it''s so cold and rainy." Know Summer defended.


    "That''s why I came to pick you up. Look at you drenched like this, you must be frozen badly," said Pei Jing, diverting the topic.


    Know Summer knew he was changing the subject and didn��t want to argue with him, but she still felt a little stifled.


    After they arrived home, the children were already there. Sister Zhang had them bundled under nkets to warm them up. Know Summer instinctively wanted to go inside and take a look, but Pei Jing wrapped her up entirely and carried her.


    "Don''t check on them yet, Sister Zhang is taking care of them. You''re drenched. Go change first so you don��t catch a chill."


    Perhaps thanks to the space, Know Summer and the kids at home rarely got sick, but very rarely didn''t mean never. Their bodies were just a bit better than others, plus they often ate things that had restorative abilities.


    After Pei Jing carried Know Summer into the room, he told her, ��Go take a hot bath in the space first. I��ll go check on the kids.�� Though his words were still stern, he was still very concerned about the children. And because he didn��te home often, he cherished the time spent with them even more.


    Know Summer nodded. By the time she came out of the space again, the children had all changed into dry clothes.


    Sister Zhang had specially boiled soup. After dinner, they waited a while longer. Seeing that it was still drizzling, Sister Zhang found a small break in the rain and said, "I should get going while the rain''s not heavy, lest it gets dark and the road gets harder to walk.��


    ��Why not let Pei Jing send you back? It''s still raining so hard." Know Summer had just finished speaking when Sister Zhang hurriedly waved her hands while holding arge ck umbre, rushing out into the rain. "No need to send me, I can go back myself. It''s not very far, and all that starting and stopping wastes gas."


    Not long after Sister Zhang left, the rain stopped for a bit. There was some umted water in the yard, so the kids put on rain boots and started stomping in the puddles.


    Know Summer told them no but they didn��t listen. Pei Jing thought the children were enjoying themselves and saw no harm in letting them y for a while.


    She simply stopped minding them and let them y wildly outside while she went in, unable to stand the cold.


    After quite some time had passed Pei Jing finally opened the door, bringing in a rush of chill air.


    "Did you have fun?" Know Summer asked.


    "Yup, they washed up and all went to bed," replied Pei Jing. He removed his cotton coat and hung it on the rack, then soaked his feet in a footbath.


    The night was lingering.


    As soon as it turned light out, Know Summer heard noisy chatter outside.


    Getting up and putting on her clothes, she opened the door to see a nket of white in the treetops.


    But there was no snow umtion below because heavy rain had preceded the snowfall.

 Chapter 361: 361 Feelings do not matter, love is interest

    <h4>Chapter 361</h4>


    Pei Jing was using a stick to clear the snow umted on the roof. He originally wanted to pull the snow he had brushed off outside, but Xiao Liu kept shouting that he wanted to y with it, so Pei Jing could only pile the snow up to let the kids y with it.


    Peaceful days always go by quickly. This time when Pei Jing came back, he couldn''t stay home for the New Year since he still had to be busy with things at the factory. He had wanted to pick up Zhi Xia and the kids to spend New Year''s together at the army camp, but because Zhi Xia couldn''t go due to still having to take care of business at the factory, he could only take the kids.


    In the days before New Year''s, Zhou Nan came by for a visit.


    "I heard from your third brother that you''ve been busy with that factorytely. How''s that going? Do you need any help?"


    "It''s just about done. We''re waiting to start production after New Year''s, so there''s not much to be busy with right now. Why did you suddenly ask about this, mom? Is something going on?"


    She had set up factories and shops before, so Zhou Nan had asked about it in the past too, telling Zhi Xia that if she encountered any difficulties to discuss it with the family. Later, seeing that she was doing pretty well on her own, Zhou Nan didn''t ask anymore.


    Zhi Xia figured she wouldn''te ask about this for no reason.


    "It''s like this..."


    Zhou Nan hadn''te for herself, but rather to ask on behalf of her maiden family if Zhi Xia would allow her cousins toe work at the factory, if there were no restrictions.


    Of course, afraid that Zhi Xia would be averse to the idea, Zhou Nan asked quite apprehensively, and even said not to feel obligated if it would be difficult, that it was fine if Zhi Xia said no.


    She had juste to ask and hadn''t even brought it up yet with her family back home. If Zhi Xia said no, Zhou Nan could simply not mention it at all.


    In terms of hiring workers, it didn''t matter who, and Zhou Nan knew her two cousins were honest, decent people.


    However, there were some things that still needed exining. Her factory wasn''t state-owned - state-owned factories could directly change rural residence permits to urban ones, but she didn''t have the ability to do that here.


    Another thing was the housing issue. Dorms had been built at the factory right next door, and there were rooms for couples, but it wasn''t like at state-owned factories where whoever was assigned a room it belonged to them indefinitely. Here, the dorms were only provided during the period of employment, so if they decided to find another path and stop working at the factory, naturally the housing would be reimed as well.


    Zhou Nan had already discussed this matter with An Jingzhi beforehand, so she understood these points. She was thinking that after New Year''s when she went to visit rtives, she would bring it up to her two brothers to see what they thought.


    Although they could also do carpentry work to earn money in the vige, most payment was in grain and produce, and the actual cash they got was very limited, and prices were not going up either.


    If they could reallye work in the city, with the current situation, even just the minimum monthly wage was 30-some yuan - that would be far better than farming in the countryside over years and years of work.


    After Zhou Nan left, Zhi Xia called Wu Lei.


    The other parts for assembling electric fans were all prepared, they justcked one induction chip, which was also the fan''s most crucial controlponent.


    Wu Lei was also extremely anxious - the supplier they had a contract with could no longer be reached, even after several days of searching.


    In fact, things like this were verymon in Shen City''s side of the business - there were even gangs who specialized in scamming people looking to get rich.


    The supplier Wu Lei found had supplied a small workshop for a long period of time, and because they were afraid the supplies wouldn''t be delivered after everything else was ready, some of the earlier fan de shipments still hadn''t been paid off yet.


    Even considering everything, they didn''t expect the other party would choose to disappear at this point, truly iprehensible that they would be willing to take a loss like this.


    Of course, with the dimensional trading hub as a backup, Zhi Xia could avoid taking a huge loss on the investment so far.


    To put it another way, if she wasn''t confident she had no grudges against the supplier, she would suspect their goal was to sabotage her.


    Zhi Xia hurried to the factory to get a set of fan des, and ced an order for a batch of induction chips with the interdimensional farming tycoon.


    In the modern interdimensional world, all kinds of things could be purchased.


    Her original n was to get the factory running first, then establish an R&D department, but now it seemed that if she wanted to grasp the initiative herself, she couldn''t rely on others.


    After thinking through this matter, Zhi Xia called Wu Lei again and asked him to try recruiting talent in this area from abroad, but attracting foreign talent would surely require no small expense.


    Money was no object for the wealthy Zhi Xia - what shecked was people and technology. She promised that as long as the technology was sound, she could pay based on the R&D results.


    As long as the benefits were attractive enough, she wasn''t worried people wouldn''t be willing toe. Wu Lei immediately started looking for candidates.


    With the export of Jiao Yan abroad, they were now an influentialpany in Shen City, and received a lot of government support.


    Wu Lei had also risen with the tide - he was no longer the decadent figure from his Jin City days. Whether connections or rtionships, he now held quite a bit in his hands.


    The Gao family - Gao Dalin was discussing matters with Gao Second Sister.


    "Second sister, it seems Pei JianGuo is somewhat out of control now. What do you think we should do about it? Should we abandon this piece on the game board?"


    "We can''t yet. Pei JianGuo being suddenly transferred to the Construction Bureau and valued greatly by higher leadership, we''ll inevitably have dealings with the Construction Bureau as we move into real estate next. And we still need Pei JianGuo as a piece before we obtain Zhi Xia''s appliance factory, otherwise it will be troublesome if we want to develop in Jin City in the future."


    Unless they had even harder connections in the Construction Bureau, but clearly they didn''t.


    This also surprised Gao Second Sister quite a bit - ording to the records of those objects, Pei JianGuo should have just been an insignificant secretary in the government before resigning to go into business in the 90s, even losing all his family assets in the process. If not for Pei Jing salvaging the situation, he probably couldn''t even afford meals in hister years.


    But he was suddenly transferred to work at the Construction Bureau, and with Jin City as one of the real estate pilot cities, the powers of that position, if utilized well, were no worse than what they had struggled for all these years.


    "So what should we do? He''s bing less and less patient with you, doesn''te around as often recently, and his attitude is much poorer than before. Seems to me you might as well just agree to marry him - with his current position, even if he amounts to nothing more, we won''t be at a loss." Gao Dalin calcted. "It''s just that he has a son, which would be unfair to you."


    This time, Gao Second Sister didn''t stubbornly reject the idea like before, but seriously considered the feasibility of this matter.


    She had never cared about feelings orck thereof. What she valued more was benefit - the benefit Pei JianGuo could currently bring her.

 Chapter 362: 362 All kinds of calculations, into the hands.

    <h4>Chapter 362</h4>


    However, things did not develop as she had imagined.


    The sixteenth day of the first month after New Year was the time for children to start school, and also the day Hongfeng Appliance Factory started work.


    The first batch of recruited employees was not too many, even counting cousin and his wife from Zhou Vige, there were only more than 20 people, all gathered at the factory gate.


    Liu Xuan and Wu Xiaohua''s side sent gifts to celebrate the opening, after Zhi Xia, the leader, gave everyone a speech, arge te of firecrackers exploded with a bang, and the government also specially sent someone to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to strengthen momentum.


    Hongfeng Appliance was the first private enterprise established in Jin City, and also the only appliance factory in Jin City. Jin City wanted to vigorously develop real estate, so it naturally had to have attractive ces to first provide employment opportunities.


    Although the factory only recruited more than 20 people in the first batch, looking at the area it upies, this was just the beginning. Once it was sessfully opened, it would definitely not just be this.


    Moreover, the current situation has changed. The development of the city relies on the support of various industries and businesses. The policy that the government will adopt next is to vigorously attract investment and build the city.


    A few days ago, Zhi Xia had already taught the assembly procedures to the leaders she was preparing to train afterwards. The 20-odd people were divided into three groups, each led by one person to carry out their respective procedures.


    While Zhi Xia was busy over here, Gao Second Sister was so angry over there that she almost flipped the table.


    "Gao Dalin, what on earth are you doing?" Gao Second Sister pointed the spearhead at her brother, "Didn''t we agree that it would be foolproof? The factory has already been set up, and you tell me this is foolproof?"


    Thinking of the original n, Gao Dalin was also a little afraid, "I went there specially and spent a lot of money to investigate. Boss Huang was the only one who could get these things. The profit we gave was the best he could get. It was impossible for him to betray us."


    "What''s the use of saying this now? The key is that An ZhiXia''s factory has opened. We have invested all our money to monopolize the controllers. Tell me what we should do now?"


    Gao Second Sister was also a good schemer. She chose to cut off the core controller after Zhi Xia had everything ready, just to make her at a loss, and then think of a way to take over the factory she had built at a low price, and then sign an agreement with Boss Huang to let him supply goods. They would produce on this side, and after making money, they would give him a certain profit, which would definitely make more money than his simple supply.


    But ns cannot keep up with changes. Just in case, the controllers on Boss Huang''s side had been taken away by her. Where did An ZhiXia find the source of goods?


    "Don''t worry, I''ll call Boss Huang now. If it doesn''t work, we''ll get the other parts ready, find someone to assemble them, and we won''t lose money anyway." Not losing money was just the worst n he could make. Anyway he could make a profit, just not as fast and big as scheming against An ZhiXia.


    "You have good ideas, but we don''t have the procedures. It''s still smuggling." Gao Second Sister red at him, "The current market conditions are not like before. The checkpoints are all checked very strictly. We can''t do it like before. We must find a proper channel."


    "As for An ZhiXia''s side, it was cheap for her that we didn''t plot against her. Don''t bother her for now. You try to contact the people around An ZhiXia. Remember, never let her know that we are contacting them. Try to sell the controllers to her as much as possible to get the capital back first."


    She wanted to focus on real estate next, and now she just looked at what policies the government would introduce. She must have money on hand. Since the n failed, she had to liquidate quickly so as not to affect her proper business.


    "Then aren''t we losing a lot?" He was able to intercept the goods that belonged to An ZhiXia from Boss Huang''s side, which was originally spent a lot of money, Boss Huang would not breach the contract at normal prices, and it also cut off his business in Shen City.


    He knewst time that people in Shen City were still looking for his news and urging him toplete it here.


    If Boss Huang knew that the appliance factory n had fallen through, he would probably want to eat him alive.


    "It can''t be helped to lose a little. After all, we can''t fight others and dig up our own foundation." Gao Second Sister always acted prudently, which was the reason she had never had an ident in these years.


    But obviously Gao Dalin didn''t think so.


    Having money these years made him morecent. Although he still believed Gao Second Sister very much, he inevitably had his own thoughts.


    Especially after getting married, people always have to consider themselves.


    Second Sister said next they would wait for real estate development. He didn''t know where this path would lead, but appliance assembly had shown him the prospect.


    The most popr scarcemodities on the market now, as long as they were produced, they would definitely sell. And they had already paid such a high price that he was reluctant to give up easily.


    He also felt that Gao Second Sister''s courage was too small. Now it was just the beginning of the contest, only one round, and she already had the idea of retreating.


    Perhaps An ZhiXia only temporarily obtained a batch of controllers from somewhere, the quantity must be limited. As long as he firmly controlled Boss Huang''s side, An ZhiXia woulde to him sooner orter. By then...


    Speaking of which, the girl used to be thin and shriveled. She had really changed a lot these years, especially her face and figure...


    Gao Dalin was reckless, and his mind went to who knows where, but suddenly, Pei Jingjian''s sturdy figure appeared in his mind and disrupted all his fantasies.


    He had only nced at him secretly in the corner back then. That man was so vignt. At that time, just one cold nce from him made Gao Dalin almost unable to stand still.


    Forget it, unless he could overthrow the Pei family and An family, otherwise he really couldn''t move that dead girl.


    He still knew his own limits. Doing some small actions behind the scenes was fine, but really confronting the Pei family and An family, his small stature would surely be annihted without a trace.


    Not long after, Zhi Xia received Wu Lei''s contact.


    The researchers she wanted had been found, and they could bring the technology with them, but there were still some minor problems. He wanted to set up his own research and development department independently, with 5% equity share, and no one could interfere with him.


    This condition was not excessive, provided that he had the ability to match it.


    "How''s it going with the person I asked you to find?" Zhi Xia asked.


    She had originally wanted to dig people from state-owned factories, but people''s cherishment of iron rice bowls now was extraordinary. With stable jobs, no one wanted to take risks, so she could only start with talented neers.


    "I''ve found them, a total of two people, one of them is very talented, he assembled semiconductors by himself..."


    "You''re in charge of this. Arrange them in the R&D department. I will find some books in this field abroad for them. Tell them to study hard..."


    This was also in case something happened. This foreigner was brought over at a high price. Since she could dig him over, others might dig him away too.


    Of course, if he could focus on R&D steadfastly, she would be even happier, but it never hurts to leave a backup n.


    "Also, I remember Jin City University has quotas for government-sponsored overseas students every year. Contact the school and let Hongfeng sponsor more top students to study abroad, but they must work at Hongfeng for more than ten years after returning from studying abroad, and volunteers must sign a contract."


    Ten years is not a very long time. Currently, to send someone abroad to study not only requires paying for tuition but also paying for their basic living expenses for those years. This is already a veryrge expenditure to begin with. Spending so much money and effort to train someone, if theye back and participate in other work, it would not be too bad of an investment, at least they are making contributions to their mothend. But the worrying thing is if they stay abroad and don''te back.


    Examples like this are not umon. She was even more unwilling to spend money training talent for other countries. Therefore, this must be considered prudently.


    Moreover, this is 10 years of paid work, a win-win with no loss.


    Jiao Yan Chu Jian was only Wu Lei reporting the situation to her asionally. She did not participate personally or feel particrly tired.


    But one person''s energy is limited after all. Hong Feng relied entirely on her alone from the beginning until now. Although she had started training talent, it was not something that could be aplished in a short time. Competing with state-owned enterprises for talent was futile, so she could only work harder by herself for the time being.


    Fortunately, everything was going rtively smoothly.


    With the establishment of the R&D department, and the various preparations, Hong Feng was now able to independently manufacture all parts of electric fans, no longer having to rely on importingponents from abroad for assembly.


    Let alone it was only 1983 now. Even in the 1990s when various industries were neck and neck, having mastered this technology would allow them to lead the pack for some time.


    After the establishment of the R&D department, thepany also set up a sales department. As they had anticipated, it was not like when Jiao Yan was just getting started and had to look everywhere for sales channels and advertise.


    Once summer arrived, the demand for electric fans from the people was huge. Aside from those who could not even afford meals at home, who wouldn��t want to scrimp and save to buy an electric fan to bring home?


    And the inability of state-owned factories to meet demand created an opportunity for private enterprises.


    It was only May, and inventory was already sold out, with orders ced until November of the second half of the year.


    Some who could not get orders this year were also making preparations for next year. The discerning could see that at least in the next few years, there would be nock of sales channels for these types of products.


    While Zhi Xia was busy with all this, Jiang Tao, as the deputy factory director, was specially invited to attend a banquet.


    He actually did not have much time either, but a childhood friend had invited him repeatedly, so he could not decline to give face and had to make time to attend the appointment.


    The most luxurious private room at Huasheng Hotel, the dining was not only with the highest grade ingredients, but Jiang Tao also discovered upon arriving that beside his childhood friend were two attractive young women, dressed slightly provocatively and behaving intimately.


    He suddenly had a bad premonition, and warily sat in the spot furthest from them.


    ��Brother, you��ve made your fortune!�� Jiang Tao looked at the specifications before him. Even as a deputy factory director, if it wasn��t a business meal that could be expensed, he would not dare to eat such a meal either.


    However, he had not heard of his friend making any fortune, only hearing from others that he was still idling around wasting time.


    Jiang Tao would never look down on that sort of time-wasting person. Nowadays, idling around, who knows, he might have be someone that others could never catch up to.


    ��Can''t say I''ve made a fortune, just found a way to make a living that''s a bit better than before.�� With Jiang Tao''s praise, his friend could no longer keep a straight face, the corners of his mouth almost cracking to his ear.


    It was clearly the state of someone who had gotten rich overnight, with unstable thoughts.


    ��Tao, it wasn��t easy to treat you to a meal. Order whatever you like to eat today, brother��s treating.�� Anyway he didn''t have to pay the bill in the end. He should choose the best dishes.


    Besides, the other party said that as long as he could get the job done, there would still be a considerable remuneration for him.


    As for the matter he was asked to handle, he felt it was no big deal. Jiang Tao was already the deputy factory director; this bit of power should not be a problem.


    After speaking, he red at the girl beside him, ��Why isn��t there any entertainment? Hurry and move over there, pour some drinks for my brother!��


    Jiang Tao hurriedly stood up and waved his hands awkwardly, ��No need for that. Let me make this clear first, I��ll sit down since you want to treat me to a meal today, but if you want anything else, I��ll head back first.��


    ��Hey, don��t...��


    It wasn��t easy getting him toe out after all the invitation, so he quickly stopped the woman from going over. Only then did Jiang Tao shrink to the side, looking like a wronged little daughter-inw.


    He had just returned from the countrysidest year, and it had been many years since hest saw this childhood friend. When they were little they got along so well, but now he had be like this, he didn''t know why.


    It gave him the feeling that he was not a good person.


    ��If there��s anything you want to discuss with me, just say it directly. As you know, I finally found a job aftering back, busy with big and small things every day, not much time toe out and dy things.��


    ��Brother, you��re being too modest. But since you say so, I��ll get to the point.�� His friend smiled, but it was somewhat sinister. He waved away the two women at his side before moving closer to Jiang Tao and whispering something in his ear.


    ��No, I can��t agree to this.�� Jiang Tao''s attitude changed as he rejected sharply, ��Our factory makes everything from fans to controllers by ourselves now, we don''t purchase externally. Don��t bother pitching this idea to me, I can��t help you.��


    Jiang Tao nced at his watch. This was a reward from the factory director when he became deputy factory director. He even encouraged him to work hard, and that there would be opportunities for further promotion in the future. He might even be a shareholder of Hong Feng.

 Chapter 363: 363 No Wonder

    <h4>Chapter 363</h4>


    The leaders were willing to give Jiang Tao important responsibilities, and Jiang Tao had a promising future ahead of him. He didn''t want to ruin himself over this small gain.


    "We''re not brothers if you''re going to be petty about this. As deputy factory manager, can''t you make decisions on even small matters like this? This is a win-win for both of us and does no harm to your factory. Why can''t you just..."


    "Anyway, I can''t do it. Get rid of this idea."


    Jiang Tao stood up and walked away. He had barely started eating and hadn''t even picked up his chopsticks, but something told him he couldn''t eat here anymore.


    Over the next several days, his old friend kept pestering him.


    Red Maple was developing rapidly. After just a few months, it had started bing profitable. The down payments received in the second half of the year alone were enough to cover what Sister Zhang had spent on starting the factory.


    Zhi Xia was formting ns for the next step. The leaders she had cultivated so far, especially outstanding ones like Jiang Tao and the two others selected early on, could already hold their own.


    Barring any idents, she could hand management of this ce entirely to Jiang Tao and go start a new factory.


    Knock knock knock.


    There was a knock at the door.


    Without even lifting her head, Zhi Xia parted her red lips slightly. "Come in."


    Jiang Tao came in carrying newly selected orders. "Boss, you''re still working hard?"


    "Mm," Zhi Xia nodded and temporarily set aside her work at hand.


    After thinking it over left and right, Jiang Tao decided to tell Zhi Xia about the controller issue.


    The more he thought about it, the more he felt something was off. His old friend''s stubborn persistence made him feel this matter was not so simple. If he didn''t cooperate, it was very possible the other party would look for someone else, so he had to give the boss a heads up.


    If some shortsighted person got bought over and tampered with things, leading to subsequent product quality issues, the whole factory would be implicated.


    After hearing about this, Zhi Xia instantly recalled the batch of controllers she had been blocked from buyingst year.


    She had found Boss Huang from a few months ago. ording to his ount, he had also been tricked. He said the other party had also wanted to collude with him to sabotage her factory and wait to profit from her downfall, but unexpectedly she had managed to get the factory running, ruining their scheme.


    That batch of controllers had been quite valuable. Zhi Xia had kept an eye on the market since then. If arge quantity appeared, there was no way she wouldn''t discover it or be able to keep such a sizable batch hidden without doing anything.


    But it had been silent these past few months, so she assumed the other party had taken the goods elsewhere or disposed of them under her nose if they were capable enough.


    Plus she had been so busytely that she didn''t have time to pay close attention to other matters, so she hadn''t been too concerned.


    Half a yearter, that batch of controllers had finally surfaced in the market. She wondered if they were from the batch she had gotten blocked.


    What a pity though, she didn''t need them anymore.


    "What''s the name of that old friend of yours? Where does he live?" Zhi Xia asked.


    The questions made Jiang Tao freeze up, unsure what Zhi Xia was nning.


    She smiled and exined, "As a factory leader, as you know, our factory got blocked from a batch of controllers before. I just want to ask your friend some questions. What''s with that expression? You''re not worried I''d secretly send someone to deal with him, are you?"


    "No no." Hearing the boss came from a military family, she probably wouldn''t do anything illegal. Jiang Tao thought about it and answered Zhi Xia''s questions.


    After Jiang Tao left, Zhi Xia summoned Yuan Bao and had him keep an eye on that man to see who he had been in contact with recently.


    If it hadn''t been for her batch getting intercepted, she could let it go. But now that she knew someone had sabotaged her from behind, she was going to make them taste bitter consequences.


    Right after briefing Yuan Bao clearly on the matter, she also got off work and went home, where she heard from Sister Zhang that Third Brother had gotten into an ident at the hospital,


    Sister Zhang said a man had inexplicably stabbed him with a knife and his status was currently unknown.


    Zhi Xia''s heart skipped a beat. After instructing Sister Zhang briefly, she hurried over to the hospital.


    The whole family was already waiting outside the operating room, and Zhou Nan was sobbing uncontrobly.


    Zhi Xia quickly went over to ask, "What happened? How is Third Brother?"


    "He''s still in surgery. We don''t know the specifics yet."


    Seeing her crying so hard and incoherently, Zhi Xia could only turn to An JingZhi. "How did Third Brother suddenly get stabbed? Was it a patient''s family member..."


    She could only think it was some medical dispute. An ZhiXian was currently a top doctor at the hospital and one of the few actively advocating integrated Chinese and Western medicine. Since returning from abroad, the cough and asthma Chinese medicine he had developed had passed review by the drug regtory agency and was being mass produced at a pharmaceutical factory. Because of this, he had also been featured in People''s Daily.


    There were also the male oral contraceptives that were being rapidly poprized since the formal legition of the family nning policy, sparing many women the pain of ligation while also achieving over 99% contraceptive rates, with both short-term and longsting versions up to three years.


    At this thought, Zhi Xia flushed slightly. Fortunately this was her brother. Otherwise she suspected what would have been developed was female contraceptives instead of male ones.


    But to Zhi Xia''s surprise, this time An ZhiXian had been inexplicably stabbed over the contraceptives.


    The assant already had 5 daughters at home. Since family nning was promotedst year, he and his wife had been trying every way to conceive a son. His wife got pregnant after two months in hiding but unfortunately miscarried from a fall. The man got forced to take long-term contraceptives, and seeing no more hope for children, instead of ming the people who caught him or coerced him, he med An ZhiXian as the contraceptive developer.


    He found the newspaper that had covered An ZhiXian, then posed as a patient to surveil the hospital back and forth for several days before finally finding an opportunity to suddenly pull out a knife and stab An ZhiXian, who had just finished an exhausting surgery.


    An ZhiXian''s abdomen was stabbed once. He was immediately pulled into the ER, and the An family rushed over to await outside the operating room where his status remained unknown.


    "What about the stabber? Was he arrested?" Zhi Xia asked again.


    "The police took him away."


    Just then, the operating room door opened and the surgeon came out.


    "Doctor, how is my son?" Zhou Nan anxiously rushed to ask.


    "The surgery was very sessful. He will be fine now. The injury was to his abdomen. Doctor An will need ample rest and recuperation."


    After being moved from the OR to a premium single room for his status, the An family finally got to see him.


    But this had been an unforeseen disaster.

 Chapter 364: 364 is not enough for the rest of the plan.

    <h4>Chapter 364</h4>


    The effects of the anesthetic had not yet worn off, and An ZhiXian was still unconscious.


    Everyone rushed into the room at once. Just as Zhou Nan was about to speak, the nurse said, "Don''t bring too many people into the patient''s room, otherwise it will impede air cirction."


    Everyone except An JingZhi and Zhou Nan voluntarily left the room.


    The old man said to Zhou Nan and Liu Ling, "Her parents are here, so things will be fine. You still have children at home, so go back first. Come see him again after he wakes up."


    Zhou Nan asked the old man, "Are you and Granny leaving?"


    The old man looked back at the hospital room and said with concern, "We''ll stay a while longer. You guys go first."


    While telling others to rx, he couldn''t rest easy himself before the patient woke up.


    Zhou Nan nodded, bid the two elders farewell, and left with Liu Ling.


    Since An ZhiXian couldn''t eat for the time being, Zhou Nan timed things to tell Zhang''s wife that she had congee here to bring over, so there was no need to send duplicates.


    She added some nourishing ingredients to the congee, hoping that Third Brother would recover soon.


    By the time Zhou Nan sent the congee to the hospital, An ZhiXian had awakened with an IV in his arm.


    An JingZhi sat to the side, holding a newspaper and saying the paper had already reported yesterday''s incident. It also promoted the benefits of contraceptives, noting that even those unwilling to take them could choose sterilization.


    After all, that was the original method employed when family nning first began. But because it caused too much bodily harm and long-acting contraceptives had lengthy effective periods, the policy shifted to contraceptive pills instead.


    At Zhou Nan''s side, Zhou Nan nagged him to quit being a doctor, saying she couldn''t ept something like this happening a second time. An ZhiXian''s head ached from her scolding and he desperately looked to Zhou Nan for help.


    Zhou Nan couldn''t do anything and could only smooth things over, telling Zhou Nan that what he needed now was peaceful rest.


    Only then did Zhou Nan have a sudden realization and fall silent.


    The two cousins also came to visit bearing gifts before Zhou Nan left.


    When Yuan Bao returned, she told Zhou Nan that the culprit was actually Gao Dalin. Without even thinking about it, Zhou Nan knew that Gao Second Sister must also be involved.


    Even though she hadn''t heard those two names in a long time, they were still unforgettable to her.


    Zhou Nan lowered her head to look at the shadows cast by the sunshine.


    Gao Second Sister had vanished without a trace after being expelled from school. For her to reappear now with such capabilities meant she had not been idle these past few years.


    But if she was only plotting against Zhou Nan, she stillcked the qualifications.


    A few months ago Gao Dalin had already disposed of that batch of goods per Gao Second Sister''s orders. This was the first time Gao Dalin had not listened to Gao Second Sister''s decision. He thought Zhou Nan would definitely be unable to find a supplier, plus the profits were so substantial that he was reluctant to let go halfway to defeat.


    But who could have thought that after just a few short months, things would turn out like this.


    Zhou Nan somehow secured a supplier to respond and even sessfully poached talent from abroad to thoroughly grasp the core technology and achieve in-house production and sales.


    The retail price of Hong Feng brand fans wasn''t too high. This made the high-priced controllers Gao Dalin had obtained into aplete joke. Now that he was stuck with them and they were useless whether he sourced otherponents for assembly now or not, plus offending Boss Huang''s side meant they couldn''t find anyone else willing to supply other parts either.


    In the Gao family''s small western-style building, Gao Dalin slumped dejectedly on the sofa while Gao Second Sister stood opposite him, hands on hips, seemingly about to explode from rage.


    "Gao Dalin, what did you promise me? I told you over and over again that you must dispose of those goods. And now look, they''ve all exploded in our hands. The government bid starts in half a month. If we miss this chance, tell me, what are we going to do afterwards?"


    It wasn''t that Gao Second Sister was especially clever either. They had gotten to where they were today by relyingpletely on what An MeiYun had left behind to take advantage of the era''s dividends.


    But An MeiYun''s legacy was limited. She only knew money was easy to make these past few years. If they missed this wave, they''d have to wait until the 1990s for the stock market IPO. That was still several years off!


    Plus there was uncertainty around stocks, with potential losses or gains. An MeiYun had only mentioned it briefly without leaving specific targets. Real estate was still more secure. As long as they started building at first while also leveraging policy incentives, it would be difficult not to profit.


    But now, due to Gao Dalin''s stupidity, the limited money on hand was far from enough to support subsequent ns.


    "I didn''t expect it would turn out this way either," Gao Dalin said guiltily as he looked at her. "Second Sis, it''s useless to say this stuff now. You should hurry up and think about what we''re going to do next."


    He was already doing his best to remedy the situation. That damn Zhou Nan couldn''t be counted on, and the people around her rejected both kindness and reason. To think they actually didn''t pocket money that was given for free. It served them right to be poor their whole lives!


    Gao Second Sister anxiously paced back and forth. She had made full preparations for this, yet still hadn''t foreseen this loophole from Gao Dalin.


    What an idiot. He infuriated her to death!


    Suddenly, her eyes lit up with an idea.


    "Gao Dalin, go find Pei JianGuo right now and tell him I''m home drowning my sorrows in alcohol and drinking myself to death..."


    "But how''s that useful? You told me to cate him yet you made me shut up. He hasn''te around much the past two months and has clearly cooled on you. Would he even care if you drink yourself dead?"


    "I told you to go so get going. Don''t just make dumb decisions on your own when you don''t have a brain yourself. Don''t forget that the two of us are grasshoppers tied together by one rope. If I fall, how long do you think you canst on your own? Relying on that brain of yours that resembles a stupid pig''s, or that useless wife of yours who doesn''t even know how to birth children?"


    "Second Sis, don''t talk about my wife like that now that she''s pregnant. We just confirmed it yesterday. You''ll have to be more polite to her from now on."


    "Go go go..."


    Gao Second Sister was impatient.


    Like she cared whether or not he had a child. Quit the drivel about continuing the family line��that wasn''t her responsibility!


    But his words did remind her to be more alert. She was already 30. Whether or not she needed a man didn''t matter, but she truly should have a child at this point. After scheming for most of her life, she couldn''t very well look back in the end to find she didn''t even have an heir to inherit everything.


    She had to hurry up and find an outstanding man. If she kept dragging things out, her age meant she might not even be able to have children anymore.


    Plus the kinds of intimate acts married couples could partake in with Pei JianGuo made her want to indulge.


    Come to think of it, they hadn''t been physically close in a long time. No wonder Gao Dalin would think that way.


    But having associated together for so long, she was confident she could still easily manipte Pei JianGuo as long as she used the right methods.


    There wasn''t much good alcohol left in the house, only the bulk liquor Gao Dalin had bought a few days ago.


    Gao Second Sister, who had never drunk alcohol before, nearly choked after taking a sip. But she gritted her teeth while keeping an eye on the time outside, and ruthlessly forced herself to guzzle down a few more gulps.


    The sight Pei JianGuo walked in on was a disheveled woman half slumped against the sofa with a bottle in hand, intermittently spewing nonsense.


    When she saw him, her eyes instantly reddened as she grievously charged into his embrace.


    Seeing this, Gao Dalin was worried as he said, "JianGuo, go advise her well. She''s beenining her stomach doesn''t feel well ever since learning her sister-inw is pregnant. I truly can''t spare the effort to look after her and could only ask you toe over. First help her calm down a bit. I still have to hurry and take my wife to the hospital."

 Chapter 365: 365 We鈥檒l see.

    <h4>Chapter 365</h4>


    Gao Dalin finished speaking and went upstairs, pulling his wife with him as he walked out the door. His wife was a beautiful and virtuous woman. Pei JianGuo hade over many times, but the two had barely exchanged more than a few words, even when she was cooking in the kitchen. Other than that, she was almost always upstairs.


    It was just the two of them in the house. Gao''s younger sister was even more ignored as she pretended to be crazy from drinking...


    It''s inappropriate to describe in detail what happened next, but by the time Pei JianGuo left two hourster, one of the buttons was missing from the front of his shirt, and he had a silly grin on his face.


    When ZhiXia returned home, she saw Sister Zhang wink at her meaningfully. "ZhiXia, Ping''an Mom came over. She''s in the living room."


    It had been a full 5 years since the person who had left just a letter behind was gone. With not a single phone call or letter in those 5 years, her sudden return felt somewhat surreal.


    "I see. Sister Zhang, go take care of your things first. I''ll go take a look." Not hearing the children''s voices, she guessed they must have gone next door or out back.


    ZhiXia walked into the living room. Guo Momo was already standing, looking at her longingly, wanting to approach but not daring to.


    "Auntie, long time no see."


    "Yes, it''s been a long time."


    ZhiXia went over and sat on a stool, signaling for her to sit as well. "You just got back from overseas?"


    Guo Momo had changed quite a bit over the years. Her little round face and innocent features made her look quite young - you couldn''t even tell she was nearing 30. Her soft hair draped over her shoulders. She wore an expensive id skirt with crystal sandals on her feet. It was evident she had been living well these past few years.


    "I''ve been back for a while. I wanted toe pay my respects to you and Younger Uncle earlier, but I never found the time." Just getting back and being busy with work was normal, but to be so busy she didn''t even have time toe over, that excuse could only be believed so much.


    ZhiXia could vaguely guess the real reason she hadn''te over, but she simply said, "It makes sense to be busy arranging work after getting back. Since you''ve made time toe now, I assume things at work have settled down?"


    Back then, her daring decision to study abroad for her career couldn''t be entirely med on her.


    Who could say it was right for the woman to be held back for the child''s sake, while the man could just nt his seed and be done with it?


    Perhaps neither she nor Pei JianGuo were qualified parents, but at least she had taken responsibility for PingAn''s most difficult early years.


    "Yes, I''ve gotten things arranged and have started working too. It''s going well." Although she had left 1,000 RMB behind at the time, facing ZhiXia now still made Guo Momo feel guilty.


    Ever since returning, she had been debating when and how to face ZhiXia and her child. She didn''t even dare walk by here, afraid of identally running into them and seeing hatred in her child''s eyes.


    She had tried very hard these years and always felt remorseful. Of the several ssmates who had gone abroad with her, two had chosen to remain overseas, while she had rejected a high sry offer to stay determinedly in her homnd.


    Perhaps there was nothing worth staying for here, but there was a son she could never let go of.


    How many nights had she jolted awake from dreams of her son looking at her despairingly as she walked farther and farther away, and she''d hate herself for being so heartless to abandon such a young child.


    You could not detect any familiarity in their simple exchange - the one who couldn''t hold back longing for her child was the mother. "Auntie, how has PingAn been these past few years? I...I want to see him."


    She didn''t know anyone she could ask about how PingAn had been living these years.


    Privately, she surely hoped PingAn was raised by ZhiXia, since she was a good person who would definitely not shortchange the child or teach him bad things. If the boy had been living with Pei JianGuo, who knows what Wang Yue might have said about her to Poison PingAn''s mind. She had left when PingAn was still little and he surely wouldn''t remember anything from back then now, making him easy to manipte.


    What she feared most was PingAn being loathed in her absence.


    It was her own fault, betraying the sincere feelings of others.


    So beforeing, she had prepared herself that even if she were beaten and scolded, she deserved it, though she knew ZhiXia would not act that way.


    ZhiXia knew what she wanted to ask. She directly said, "These years PingAn has been living with his grandfather. Back then I also gave the 1,000 RMB you left to Big Brother. They bought a house in the back, the one directly opposite this yard. If you want to see PingAn you can just go over."


    "His grandfather wasn''t..."


    When she had left, Pei Yong was still in the military and doing quite well.


    "In the days right after you left when PingAn cried and threw tantrums, his grandfather retired and brought PingAn to live here for a while to get him used to things before they moved into the back house. In order to take care of PingAn he specially arranged aidback job as Head of Security at the textile factory. Before PingAn started school he would either go with his grandfather to the security office ore over here."


    Pei Yong certainly wouldn''t tell Guo Momo these things himself. ZhiXia also felt Pei Yong had it hard and let a little extra slip.


    These years PingAn had been raised very well by his grandfather and the two had always had a close rtionship, relying on each other. She could scarcely imagine now - if Guo Momo came back this time wanting to take PingAn away, Pei Yong might not stop her but he would surely feel awful inside.


    Letting Guo Momo know all this, even if PingAn ultimately went with his mother, as long as he came back regrly to visit, it would give Pei Yong somefort.


    Guo Momo had abandoned her child for her own prospects. Hearing now that Pei Yong, the grandfather, had chosen to retire in order to care for the child, effectively sacrificing his own prospects, made her feel even worse inside.


    "It''s my fault for wronging my child. PingAn must really resent me, right?" Guo Momo said with red-rimmed eyes. Even the strongest person has moments of fragility.


    Thinking of the child PingAn brought a hint of a smile to ZhiXia''s lips. "You''ll know when you see him."


    Guo Momo''s worries were not unfounded - if the boy had been raised by Pei JianGuo and Wang Yue he would surely harbor hatred for his mother. She should be grateful to Pei Yong. Because PingAn had a good grandfather who never spoke ill of his mother in front of him, but instead always talked about Guo Momo''s difficulties over the years.


    Pei Yong was also nning for the future. He was getting on in years and couldn''t apany PingAn forever. Pei JianGuo and Wang Yue were unreliable. Other than his two grandfathers here, PingAn''s only other support was his mother.

 Chapter 366: 366 Years Later, We Meet Again.

    <h4>Chapter 366</h4>


    This is an undeniable fact that Guo Momo had to admit - no matter how bad she was, she was still a million times better than Pei Jianguo as a father.


    Once Guo Momo learned that her son PingAn was not far from her, she couldn''t contain her excitement.


    Seeing her anxious expression, Zhi Xia said, "Go and see him. The child has missed you a lot these years. He should be at home at this time."


    Guo Momo nodded quickly and stood up, heading towards the door.


    After walking out, she realized her loss ofposure and turned back, saying, "Xiaoshenr, I''ll take my leave now."


    Zhi Xia nodded, watching Guo Momo''s hurried departure, feeling a myriad of emotions.


    When Guo Momo had just left, she thought she was too heartless and cunning.


    But as time passed, she started to think it didn''t matter anymore.


    PingAn was a grateful child. He reciprocated kindness and didn''t let anyone regret their efforts towards him.


    Guo Momo still held a handbag in her hand, containing the clothes she bought for her son.


    She had bought them several months ago but didn''t dare to visit, so she immersed herself in busy work.


    Now that her work was stable and she had some leisure time, her longing for her son grew stronger each day.


    She half-covered her face, feeling anxious. What tone and expression should she use to greet her son when she sees him? Would he me her?


    How could she make amends and seek her son''s forgiveness for her selfishness in the past?


    Lost in her thoughts, Guo Momo walked fast, and identally bumped into someone.


    Pei Jianguo had noticed her presence long ago and deliberately stood there, watching her approach without dodging.


    "Sorry, I didn''t mean to..." Guo Momo quickly apologized after standing up, but when she looked up at the person, she suddenly stopped expressing her apology.


    Several years had passed, and Pei Jianguo seemed more mature, but she didn''t know if it was genuine maturity.


    She collected herself, calmly passing by him without showing any panic.


    Pei Jianguo couldn''t hold back anymore. "What are you doing here? Don''t tell me you came to visit our elders, Guo Momo. We divorced years ago. What right do you have toe here?"


    She was determined to go abroad, and no matter how much he humbled himself, she never turned back.


    Now, after five years, she returned. Did she achieve the life she wanted?


    Did she know that she had been transferred to the Construction Bureau, the hottest department in Jincheng, highly valued by the superiors?


    "It seems that my qualifications are not for you to decide," Guo Momo replied. "Pei Jianguo, regardless of who was right or wrong in the past, we were once a couple. For the sake of PingAn, there''s no need for us to fight to the death, right? I came here to see PingAn, not to discuss qualifications with you."


    Guo Momo had let go, but Pei Jianguo couldn''t.


    From the moment they met, it had always been Guo Momo coaxing him. But suddenly, one day, she didn''t want him anymore, and the one who was abandoned couldn''t get over it.


    Watching Guo Momo walking away without any hesitation, Pei Jianguo felt his initial happiness disappear and turn into frustration.


    He caught up with her, and in that moment, he had forgotten his original purpose foring here. He just wanted to see the regretful look on Guo Momo''s face.


    Had his life really been better without her?


    He didn''t believe it, and he didn''t want to believe it either.


    Seeing her standing silently at the entrance, Pei Jianguo could hear the sounds of children''sughtering from the courtyard. He could tell that the children from the front yard were ying here too.


    But Guo Momo didn''t know, she didn''t even know that shortly after she left, PingAn regained his health and was no longer mute.


    "Why are you standing here hesitating to go in? Do you realize how disgusting your actions were?" Pei Jianguo walked up to her and chuckled. "Guo Momo, when you chose to leave, you should have thought about today. It''s been five years, and PingAn no longer remembers you as his mother. But it doesn''t matter anyway. A woman who abandoned her husband and child to go abroad, do you think PingAn would hate you if he knew you came back?"


    Guo Momo was already feeling uneasy, and Pei Jianguo kept rubbing salt on her wounds, watching her tearful eyes turn red. Suddenly, he felt a sense of satisfaction from seeking revenge.


    "I don''t need you to judge whether I''m disgusting or not, Pei Jianguo. You will probably never know how disgusting you are yourself!"


    After saying these words, Guo Momo walked into the courtyard.


    The children in the courtyard were ying basketball, and the basketball was bought by Zhi Xia for them. Pei Yong had hung a homemade basketball hoop on a tree in the courtyard, which attracted many children toe and y.


    As the basketball rolled towards the entrance, PingAn grinned and hurriedly went to chase after it, but he collided with someoneing in through the gate.


    Although he was young, PingAn had been exercising with Pei Yong for a long time, and coupled with the good food Zhi Xia often gave them, he had a strong physique.


    With a sudden collision, he stood his ground, while Guo Momo took two steps back.


    "Sorry, Auntie, are you okay?" PingAn''s voice still carried the innocence of a child. Pei ChenYe, who had originally disdained ying with a group of children, was tinkering with Uncle''s radio at the entrance. When he saw Guo Momo''s figure, he immediately walked over.


    When Guo Momo left, PingAn was still too young, but he had reached the age of remembering, and he still vividly remembered Guo Momo''s face.


    And in these past few years, in order to prevent Guo Momo from causing a rift between her and PingAn after she returned, Pei Yong hadn''t concealed anything about Guo Momo from him. However, he had always taught him to respect his mother and never belittled her.


    "I''m fine." Guo Momo looked at the child in front of her, who appeared to be eight or nine years old and resembled Pei Jianguo, but gave off apletely different feeling.


    Her intuition told her that this might be her son, but this child could speak, and she didn''t dare to acknowledge it.


    PingAn''s younger son was only a few months older than Zhixia''s son, who could possibly be PingAn''s younger six uncle.


    "PingAn, Dad is here..."


    Pei Jianguo emerged from behind Guo Momo, greeting PingAn gently but casting a provocative nce at Guo Momo.


    "Dad," PingAn called out lightly, clearly showing ack of deep affection for Pei Jianguo.


    He picked up the ball and ran back, while Guo Momo''s gaze remained fixed on his figure.


    So he really is PingAn, and he can talk now!


    She immersed herself in joy but didn''t know how to bridge the gap with the child.


    Pei ChenYe took the ball from PingAn''s hand, threw it to his younger brother, and led PingAn into the house.


    When they came out again, a hint of confusion appeared in PingAn''s cold gaze as he hesitantly walked towards Guo Momo.

 Chapter 367: 367 Don鈥檛 Want to Admit

    <h4>Chapter 367</h4>


    He seemed to have plucked up his courage, but when he got close to Guo Momo, he shrank back again.


    ncing at her warily, PingAn turned and ran away.


    Pei JianGuo sneered. "See, Guo Momo? People will eventually pay the price for their own choices. You thought you could just leave ande back and he would still be the same as when he was little, letting you do whatever you want. Your son has grown up now, and he hates you, hates you so much he won''t even call you Mom."


    Every sentence was like a knife stab to Guo Momo''s heart, and she really couldn''t hold back anymore. She pped him across the face. "Pei JianGuo, who do you think you are, lecturing me? If it wasn''t for your uselessness, PingAn wouldn''t have been born unable to talk for years. If it wasn''t for you failing in your duties as a husband and father, always trying to exploit me, I wouldn''t have been driven to the point where I couldn''t stand it anymore and had to leave. I told you before, selfish, self-serving people like you can''t have a good life even if you marry a goddess. What, did I hit too close to home? I heard you got divorced again? Hahaha... Serves you right. You deserve it..."


    After being divorced for years, their first meeting was like fire and water, neither willing to give way to the other - it really was a tragedy.


    Pei JianGuo had never gotten violent with a woman before, probably because he''d never met one who annoyed him this much.


    But after living with Lu KeQin for a few years, that good habit had disappeared.


    Just when he waspletely fed up and about to resort to violence, Pei Yong came back carrying two watermelons. "Pei JianGuo, what are you doing?" he said sharply.


    Seeing Pei JianGuo''s raised hand, Guo Momo felt a wave of fear. The difference in strength between men and women was too great - if Pei JianGuo really attacked her, she wouldn''t be able to fend him off.


    Guo Momo quickly retreated several steps to stand to the side.


    Pei JianGuo was also shocked into hesitation by Pei Yong''s sharp rebuke. "Pei JianGuo, look how impressive you are, now beating women too?" Pei Yong red at him furiously. "If you really want to vent your anger, I''ll keep youpany!"


    "Dad, of course you''re taking her side! You don''t even see me as your son!" Pei JianGuo angrily stormed off.


    Only then did Pei Yong sigh and turn to look at Guo Momo.


    In the few years they hadn''t met, she looked better - visibly better. It showed that her decision to leave back then was the right one.


    Pei Yong was probably the one who understood Guo Momo the best, because it wasn''t until he got old that he finally escaped Wang Yue''s control. He also admired Guo Momo''s decisiveness - if only he could have been a little more ruthless back then, perhaps he wouldn''t have ended up like this, expanding the pain to the whole family.


    "It''s good that you''re back. Have you seen PingAn yet?"


    Guo Momo nodded, the bitterness in her eyes turning to tears. "I''ve seen him already... I''m so sorry to PingAn."


    "Don''t think like that. At least before he turned 4, you took good care of him and helped him through the most confused, difficult days." Pei Yong shook his head. "Don''t stand out here in the yard -e inside and sit."


    After saying that, Pei Yong called to Chenye, "Chenye, take your younger brothers back home first. Grandpa has something to do today, you guyse y some other day."


    The triplets and Little Six were quite obedient. Those kids were smart anyway, and had taken in the whole scene between PingAn and Guo Momo with their own eyes.


    PingAn also quietly tried to slip out with them. At 9 years old, he was no longer small, and caught Guo Momo''s notice easily, making the disappointment and hurt in her heart grow heavier.


    "Come inside and sit," Pei Yong said to her, then went after the kids.


    "PingAn," he called out, stopping PingAn''s attempt to escape. PingAn had no choice but to stop and cautiously call back, "Grandpa."


    Pei Yong went over and squatted down in front of him, rubbing PingAn''s face with his big hand and smiling as he asked, "What''s this? Do you me your mom for leaving you? Didn''t Grandpa exin it to you before? Your mom missed you terribly too when she had to leave to go to school. Look how she hurried back as soon as she finished her studies toe looking for you. Isn''t that right?"


    "I don''t me her, I just...don''t recognize her. I can''t call her that," he mumbled. He understood it all logically, and didn''t resent or me anyone.


    Plus he had grown up ying with his young uncles all these years. No outsiders dared make fun of him or bully him, and he was doted on by Grandpa and Third Aunt. Second Grandpa and Second Aunt also often came to see him and brought him lots of snacks and toys. He really didn''t feel like he was living badly at all.


    When he was alone, he would imagine what his mother was like. Grandpa also often talked about how when he was little, his favorite thing was to sit by the door at Third Aunt''s house waiting for his mother toe pick him up, because back then before Grandpa came back, if something came up he would have to stay at Third Aunt''s ce, just sitting there waiting for his mom like that.


    He truly didn''t remember any of that, couldn''t recall it at all.


    He knew Grandpa wanted to see him being obedient and sensible, so he had always behaved well. But Guo Momo''s return made him suddenly unsure what to do.


    He was used to his current life, he liked it, and didn''t really want anyone disrupting it.


    So Pei Yong clicked his tongue. This was going to be a tricky situation.


    On one hand he felt like he shouldn''t make things difficult for the child. On the other hand, he still felt like his own family was in the wrong towards Guo Momo after all.


    "If you don''t want to call her that, it''s fine, don''t force yourself. But you know, it wasn''t easy for your mom toe see you, and now you just ran off like this - won''t she feel heartbroken? She must think you me her and won''t forgive her!"


    PingAn thought it over seriously, then nodded heavily before throwing himself into Pei Yong''s arms, tears spilling from his eyes. "But I don''t want to leave Grandpa! I want to stay with you! Please don''t abandon PingAn!"


    "Silly child, how could Grandpa ever abandon you? Who''s been telling you this nonsense? Grandpa loves PingAn the most, and still has to teach you properly so you grow up to be a real man who can hold up the sky, you know." Pei Yong assumed someone must have said something to give PingAn such ideas.


    But PingAn said, "Nobody told me anything. I thought it myself."


    He was young but not stupid. He understood things he was supposed to understand.


    Other people all lived with their parents; he had been living with Grandpa the past few years because his dad and mom didn''t want him anymore. He didn''t need anyone to spell that out for him.


    He wasn''t upset about it, because he had a grandfather who was better than anyone else''s. If they didn''t want him, he didn''t want them either. He only needed Grandpa to be happy.


    That was why he was afraid - afraid that Guo Momo would take him away and not let him be with Grandpa anymore.


    "Don''t overthink so much, okay? Grandpa promises that as long as PingAn wants to stay with me, I will never abandon you. Alright?"


    He had raised the boy these past few years and their bond ran deep. If Guo Momo really took PingAn away, he would miss him terribly too.


    Of course he would also respect PingAn''s own wishes. If PingAn wanted to go with Guo Momo, he wouldn''t stop them; if PingAn wanted to stay, that was exactly what he hoped for.

 Chapter 368: 368 is threatened, Don鈥檛 be shameless.

    <h4>Chapter 368</h4>


    "Grandpa said it himself, let''s pinky swear..."


    "Alright, alright, Grandpa, let''s pinky swear," Pei Yong replied, his eyes filled with a hint of helplessness and a smile.


    "Pinky swear, hanging together, never changing for a hundred years. Whoever breaks the promise will be a little dog..."


    As the words fell, a triumphant gleam shed in PingAn''s eyes. Unfortunately, Pei Yong was still immersed in the joy before him and didn''t notice.


    Chenye''s uncle was right after all. If he wanted to stay and live with Grandpa, he couldn''t easily ept his mother. He needed Grandpa''s assurance.


    Grandpa had always been soft-hearted. If his mother acted pitiful in front of him, he might persuade himself to go and live with her.


    He didn''t want to leave Grandpa, nor did he want to leave his uncles and aunts. He enjoyed ying with them and loved the snacks his grandmother made for him.


    Perhaps he was a bit selfish. His mother could abandon him to pursue her own future, so he didn''t want to give up his own happiness to amodate her.


    As for his father, he didn''t care about him at all, so he was even less in his thoughts. Grandpa had said that as long as he was happy, it was enough.


    When Pei Yong led PingAn back to the living room, Guo Momo was sitting there anxiously.


    "Mom." The sudden call made her burst into tears instantly.


    "PingAn, you called me?" Guo Momo rushed forward, embracing PingAn in her arms.


    PingAn obediently reached out his hand and imitated the gesture his grandfather used tofort him whenever he was sad, gently patting Guo Momo''s back with his small palm.


    ...


    When Pei Jianguo came, he was initially happy but left with a belly full of anger.


    After riding the bicycle for a long distance, he realized that he hadn''t done what he came for.


    He stopped in his tracks, thought for a while, and turned back.


    When Chenye returned home, he went to find Zhixia. "Mom, PingAn''s mom is back. Uncle asked me to bring the younger brothers back first."


    "Hmm, how is PingAn?" She had watched him grow up under her own eyes, so Zhixia couldn''t help but feel affectionate towards the child.


    "PingAn is fine, but he feels a bit distant from his mom," Chenye said.


    "Alright, I understand. When you''re ying together, pay more attention to PingAn''s emotions. He''s still young, and you''re his uncle, so you should take care of him more. Got it?" After all, it was normal for the child to feel distant from her after she had been away for so many years. That''s what Zhixia thought.


    "I understand."


    Just as they were talking, Pei Jianguo came in. "Sister-inw, can we talk?"


    "Sure,e in and have a seat." Guo Momo had just returned, and Pei Jianguo rarely visited apart from festive asions and when Pei Jing came back. His visit at this time made her somewhat suspicious of his intentions.


    But it was clear that Zhixia was overthinking things.


    "I came here today because I have a little favor to ask of you, sister-inw," Pei Jianguo said straightforwardly.


    Zhixia nodded, contemting, "What is it?"


    "It''s like this, I have a friend who also got swindled and ended up with a batch of fan controllers. She''s now stuck with all the money invested in them and can''t liquidate the stock. I thought maybe Xiaoshen Electrical Factory, which manufactures fans, could help her by taking this batch of controllers. We can negotiate the price; she''s not looking to make a profit, just hoping to break even. Actually... losing some money wouldn''t be a big deal."


    As Pei JianGuo spoke these words, he felt quite anxious. In the past, regardless of the situation, there were no vested interests between them, at most just a few unpleasant exchanges.


    Thinking back to a few years ago, he pointed fingers at An ZhiXia, using her of meddling in other people''s affairs. Although it had been a long time since then, he still remembered those words in his heart. He never expected that he would now have toe to her for help.


    ZhiXia lifted her cup and took a sip of water, using it to conceal her anger.


    Damn it, asking her for this favor was worse than having a connection with Guo Momo. At least that wouldn''t feel so repulsive.


    Truly, there''s noparison without feeling hurt.


    "I can''t help with this favor," ZhiXia said frankly, looking directly at Pei JianGuo. "I believe you should know why I can''t help."


    Pei JianGuo was able to mix with Gao Second Sister and the others because she allowed him to enter. How could he have the audacity to ask her for such a favor? Has he lost his mind?


    Pei JianGuo''s face had already begun to turn ugly. "Xiaoshen, what happened in the past is in the past. Besides, ming Qingcheng''s parents'' mistakes on her and her sister, don''t you think you''re being petty? And they''re not much younger than you!"


    Before Pei JianGuo finished speaking, the cup in ZhiXia''s hand was already thrown at him.


    This time, he didn''t seem too angry. Instead, he stood up and calmly straightened his wet clothes.


    "Xiaoshen, if you''re really bothered by this, you can take it out on me. But regarding Qingcheng''s situation, I still hope you can help her, even if it''s just because of me," Pei JianGuo said, feeling that he had topromise. "I know that all theponents of the products in your factory are self-produced. If you really don''t want to take that batch of controllers, can you sell her a batch ofponents? I won''t let her pay any less than your asking price."


    "You have no face with me," ZhiXia couldn''t help but ask him, where does he get such thick skin? "Pei JianGuo, if you choose to be with Gao Second Sister, then get out of here. Don''te to my house anymore, my house doesn''t wee you."


    No matter how many conflicts there had been in the past, ZhiXia had never said anything about not letting him enter her home.


    Because this house was left by Old Pei, and Old Pei''s tablet was still here. Even if she went too far, she couldn''t prevent the descendants froming to pay their respects.


    But this time, she had truly crossed her bottom line.


    "I''m currently working at the Construction Bureau," Pei JianGuo pursed his lips, realizing how unreasonable his request was, so he surprisingly remained calm.


    But at the same time, he knew that helping Gao Second Sister, even at the cost of threatening ZhiXia, was his choice.


    "If you simply want to tell me where you work as an elder, then I congratte you on your promotion and sincerely wish you further sess in your career. However, if you intend to use your position to threaten me, let me make it clear, Pei JianGuo. Even if you were the mayor of Jincheng City, I would not fawn over you, and your threats hold no power over me." Zhi Xia sneered. "Now, thend beneath your feet belongs to me. Please leave."


    "I know you''re angry right now, so please think carefully about my words," Pei JianGuo said before leaving.


    Zhi Xia let out a sigh and sat on the luxurious chair in the living room.


    The rosewood chair was exquisite, but a bit too hard.


    Little Sixth quietly retreated from under the window and suddenly pushed open the door to his eldest brother''s room.


    "Big brother, I heard... Mom looks really angry. Eldest cousin went too far. We... let''s call Dad toe and teach him a lesson!" He clenched his small fists and spoke in a stern tone.


    Chenye, who was already thirteen years old, was currently going through puberty. He had grown taller and slender, and his whole demeanor exuded a coldness, likely due to his reluctance to speak during this phase of voice changing.


    He reached out and ruffled Little Sixth''s hair, making it stand on end, then silently walked out of the room.

 Chapter 369: 369 Son Complains

    <h4>Chapter 369</h4>


    Pei ChenYe ran out as soon as he got out of the door. He knew which route could take a shortcut, and soon ran ahead of Pei JianGuo.


    He jumped onto the top of the wall to hide, and when Pei JianGuo passed by, he threw a brick from the top of the wall.


    The huge impact smashed into the rear wheel of the bicycle, and Pei JianGuo lost his bnce and fell down.


    "Who threw the brick, damn it, don''t you have any moral sense?" Pei JianGuo cursed as he got up, covering his butt.


    He looked around, but did not see anyone''s figure.


    He had just been ahead of him and did not see which direction the brick flew from. Cursing, he took a look around, and could only swallow this dumb loss.


    It was then that Pei ChenYe poked his head out, wanting to jump out, but unexpectedly, someone inside grabbed his ankle.


    "Hey, I saw it just now. You took a brick from my wall and hit someone..." The girl held his ankle in one hand and looked up at him coquettishly.


    Being caught, Pei ChenYe could only speak up, "Sorry, I''ll pick up the brick and fix your wall."


    "What about hitting people? And climbing my wall privately, don''t tell me you think it''s over just like that?"


    Pei ChenYe frowned, but he was indeed wrong first in this matter. He could only ask patiently, "What do you want then?"


    The girl let go of his hand at this time, looking at ChenYe with great interest, "I know you. You��re only 13 years old but have skipped grades all the way to high school, and your grades have always been excellent. How about this, I won''t make you fix my wall, but tutor me instead?"


    The girl had just moved here a few days ago and was not familiar with the people nearby, but she recognized Pei ChenYe, the study master.


    Because she was in the same middle school as him before, originally in the same grade, but not in the same ss. Later Pei ChenYe skipped grades again, and is now already in high school, while she had just graduated from middle school.


    Obviously, she didn''t get into high school. She had barely persuaded her family to let her repeat a year. Today, she happened to catch a study master, of course she couldn''t let him go easily.


    "No time." ChenYe refused bluntly, "I can help you fix the wall, and climbing your wall was wrong of me, I canpensate you in some other ways, but I really don''t have time to tutor you."


    "How is that possible? It''s summer vacation now!" The girl clearly didn''t believe it.


    "I''m even busier during summer vacation. I''m going to find my dad soon, not staying here." Pei ChenYe exined.


    "Okay then, I''ll let you off this time." The girl said innocently, "Then can we be friends? Hello, I''m Yun Yan. I just moved here not long ago and don''t have any friends yet. You probably don''t know me, but I''ve seen you before. We were in the same middle school. I didn''t get into high school this year, so I wanted to ask you, the study master, to tutor me. It''s such a pity you don''t have time. It seems like heaven doesn''t want me to get this big bargain."


    She reached out her hand with a smiling face. Moreover, he was in the wrong first. ChenYe politely nodded, "Hello, I''m Pei ChenYe."


    "Pei ChenYe, where do you live? Is it nearby too? Can Ie find you to hang out?" Yun Yan asked familiarly.


    ...


    When ChenYe returned home, Little Sixth came up cleverly and asked him in a low voice, "Big brother, where did you go? Did you go teach JianGuo a lesson?"


    "What''s with a kid asking so many questions? Have you finished your summer homework?" ChenYe evaded.


    "Oh, summer vacation just started. What''s the hurry?" Little Sixth pouted in dissatisfaction.


    "Then I''ll take Chen Ze in a couple days to find dad, you can stay home and do homework."


    With just one sentence from Pei ChenYe, he sessfully grabbed Little Sixth''s weakness, making him instantly beg for mercy, "Big brother, don''t be so heartless. I''ll go do my homework now. Can you take me along in a couple days too?"


    "Why aren''t you going yet?"


    "Yes sir!" Little Sixth ran excitedly into the house.


    Pei ChenYe looked at his brother''s excited back and unconsciously curled the corners of his lips.


    But when he lowered his head, looking at the wrinkles on his pants legs, he was still a little dissatisfied.


    He went back to his room, changed his clothes, and took them to the sink to wash.


    This was also the task assigned by his dad and uncle, ever since he was 10 years old, he washed his own clothes and shoes, and no longer let Sister Zhang and his mom get involved, reaching the point of being basically self-sufficient in daily life.


    At first it felt a little unfamiliar to do these things, but as time slowly went by, he became more and more skilled.


    In his dad''s words, although he was young, he would be taking the college entrance exam soon. After the exam is college. Once in college, he would leave home to live on campus. By then there would be no one to wait on him anymore, so it''s necessary to learn some life skills in advance.


    After hanging up theundry, he thought about it and still felt unsatisfied.


    There was a telephone in the living room at home. ChenYe had Wanqing take Zhi Xia out, then he picked up the phone and dialed.


    Pei Jing happened to be in his office. He picked up the phone and heard ChenYe''s cold voicee through, "Your good nephew lost his mind for a woman, threatened my mom for his wife. What do you think should be done about this!"


    Although Pei JianGuo was very against Zhi Xia, he was quite nice to the few children in the family.


    But ChenYe was no longer young. Between his cousin and his mother, he would firmly choose his own mother.


    Furthermore, what Pei JianGuo did this time was too much, actually using his position to threaten his mother to help his enemy.


    Pei Jing hung up the phone, his eyes dark.


    He sat on the bench for a long time before finally getting up and leaving.


    An ZhiAng happened to have something to discuss with him, but Pei Jing directly instructed him, "I have something to go home for. Pay more attention to the training these days."


    Seeing his hurried appearance, An ZhiAng quickly asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Family business." No matter how bad Pei JianGuo was,ing to discipline him was one thing, but it was still best if An ZhiAng did not know.


    Although An ZhiAng had be much more steady in recent years, he was still a well-known troublemaker back then. If he knew about this, he might go crazy and make trouble for everyone.


    Because he had not received much attention at work for a long time, Pei JianGuo had just been transferred to the Construction Bureau. He ostentatiously notified all his rtives, not because he wanted to do anything, probably just to hear some words of praise from others'' mouths, making him seem not so ipetent.


    So as soon as his son said it, Pei Jing knew.


    With his position, he did have the ability to threaten Zhi Xia, but it was merely just ability.


    But if he could really threaten her, besides the An family, Pei Jing would have lived in vain all these years.


    When Pei Jing arrived home, it was already dark. He did not rush back to his own home, but went to Pei JianGuo''s house.

 Chapter 370: Three Hundred and Seventy

    <h4>Chapter 370</h4>


    The person who opened the door was Wang Yue. Although Pei JianGuo and Lu Keqin had divorced for a long time, Pei Shuangshuang had never moved back. There were only the mother and son living at home.


    She was used to being free and was more willing to live in the dormitory instead ofing back to be restrained by her mother and brother.


    This also gave Wang Yue a headache. Her daughter was almost 30 years old and still refused to get married. No matter what Wang Yue said, she wouldn''t listen. Instead, she waspletely focused on An ZhiXian, which was really worrying.


    "Brother Pei, are you here to find JianGuo?" Because Wang Yue was sure he couldn''t be here to find her.


    Ever since she divorced from Pei Yong, they hadn''t had any connection.


    "Is he here?" Pei Jing nodded and asked.


    "Yes, pleasee in and sit down first. I''ll go upstairs and call him." Although Wang Yue didn''t lower herself to fawn over them, she didn''t object to her children having connections with the Pei family. Of course it wasn''t because of that ridiculous blood rtionship. She knew clearly that without the Pei family''s support, neither she nor her son could aplish anything.


    However, Pei Jing didn''t want to go inside. He just stood straight at the door. "I won''te in. Waiting for him here is fine."


    Wang Yue looked displeased on her face. She also knew she couldn''t make a scene in front of Pei Jing. Instead, she had to force a smile on her face. "That''s fine too. I''ll go call him directly."


    With Pei Jing standing at the door and Wang Yue not closing it, she turned and walked inside.


    The house was originally distributed by Pei Yong. In order to take care of the family, Wang Yue had transferred to work at the hospital. Back then, Pei Yong had a good ie from the army, so the house he distributed was not bad either. It was a two-story small building. Pei JianGuo lived upstairs.


    Wang Yue ran upstairs and opened the door to say, "JianGuo, your uncle is here looking for you."


    Her attitude towards Pei Jing was very different from before. That was naturally because Pei Jing was no longerparable to the past.


    More than ten years ago, Pei Jing was just a deputy regimentalmander in the army. Later he was promoted to regimentalmander, but now he was the highestmander of the special forces.


    Although not even 40 years old yet, he already held such a high position that anyone would try to get on his good side.


    However, Pei JianGuo was different this time. He lowered his head in thought and didn''t want to go downstairs.


    The conversation with An ZhiXia earlier in the day - he admitted he had been impulsive. And now his uncle hade to find him at night. He was afraid things were not looking good.


    "What are you dazing off for? Didn''t you always like your uncle the most?" Seeing Pei JianGuo in a daze, Wang Yue was no fool. "JianGuo, don''t tell me you made some kind of mistake?"


    "No, I just go to work ande home every day. What kind of mistake could I make!" Pei Jianguo quickly shook his head.


    "That''s good then, that''s good. Small mistakes can be forgiven, but as you know what kind of temperament your father and two uncles have. Uncle Xiao Fang definitely won''t nitpick with you over minor issues, but if you cross their bottom line and break thew, they will have no choice but to disown you."


    "I know, Mom. I''ll go out and see first."


    Perhaps with his increasing age over the years, Wang Yue was no longer as arbitrary and domineering as before. On the contrary, Pei JianGuo had be more mature and nitpicky, and was not as magnanimous as before.


    Pei JianGuo was also afraid that Wang Yue would see him being scolded in an embarrassing state, so after going out he decisively closed the front door.


    "Uncle, shall we go somewhere further to talk?"


    Without giving Pei Jing a chance to respond, Pei JianGuo walked ahead after speaking.


    Upstairs, Wang Yue opened the window overlooking them and watched as the uncle and nephew walked away before going back downstairs.


    After turning the corner, Pei JianGuo consciously stopped. Only then did Pei Jing ask him, "I heard you were transferred to the Construction Bureau. Has work been going well recently?"


    "It''s been alright. With Jincheng pushing urban construction projects, they needed more people in the Construction Bureau. So I transferred over there." Pei Jianguo exined, still clinging to the hope that his uncle didn''t know about what had happened during the day.


    "Moving up in the bureaucracy so quickly that you now dare to aim your de at your own family members. Is that right?"


    Clearly, Pei Jing had no intention of letting him get away with fooling him.


    "Uncle, please let me exin. Don''t just listen to one side of the story." Pei JianGuo was a little impatient. "I just went to ask my aunt for a small favor, a very minor issue that she could have resolved with one casual sentence. But no matter how I persuaded her, she refused to help. I lost my temper because of that. And I just casually said those words. I would never dare do that even if you gave me eight times the guts!"


    "You don''t dare, but from the looks of it now, there seems to be nothing you don''t dare to do!" Pei Jing didn''t show the slightest bit of anger, as if he had just casually kicked Pei JianGuo. Yet Pei JianGuo knelt down on the ground, not getting up for a long time, with cold sweat pouring down his forehead..


    It was a good while before he finally recovered.


    "I knew it. In your eyes, I''m just a worthless person who can''t aplish anything, not even worthy of the Pei surname. Even after I got transferred to the Construction Bureau and gained the appreciation of high-level leaders, you guys still think I''m worthless!" Pei JianGuo was unwilling to resign himself to it either. He had wanted to have a good life and work hard at one point too. And he had made efforts, but things had still turned out this way. Yet what choice did he have?


    They only knew to condemn him. Had anyone ever tried to understand him, or even give him a word of encouragement?


    He was nowpletely oblivious to the fact that every time Pei Jing hade back, he had exhorted Pei JianGuo to live properly.


    Everyone had their own families now in their 30s. No one could always tail him and teach him how to be a proper human.


    And people like him were typical of being forgetful. They would behave for a few days after a scolding session but soon revert back to their original bad habits. Even a deity wouldn''t be able to do anything with him.


    This was not Pei Jing''s first time feeling disappointed in Pei JianGuo, but it was the first time he felt that the man before him was simply not worth disciplining at all.


    Some people were just born to be like that.


    He was now convinced that everyone thought he was worthless. Yet he never considered whether anyone in the Pei family had ever looked down on him for having a lowly position that leaders were not interested in.


    The reason they looked down on him was because hecked integrity and a sense of responsibility, on top of being incorrigible!


    The leaves on the trees rustled as Pei Jing encountered perhaps the only person in his life who made him feel so helpless.


    "The family has never looked down on you. If you insist on thinking like this, then no one can do anything. Pei JianGuo, no one is a saint. You can asionally be a bit selfish, but you can''t be so all the time. No one is obligated to always coax you. You''re not a child anymore either. Do what''s right for yourself."

 Chapter 371: 371 Things He鈥檚 Afraid to Tell Him

    <h4>Chapter 371</h4>


    ��Uncle, do you know that if it wasn''t for you taking the initiative back then, who knows if An ZhiXia would have married me instead. It was you who snatched away the fortune that belonged to me, right?"


    He thought back to when he and Qing Cheng went out that time, and on the road they met a master who said that his fortune and family had been snatched away.


    He should have had a smooth career and a harmonious family, but because something went wrong and he married the wrong person, it led to all the troubles today.


    He didn''t actually believe in these things originally and didn''t intend to bring it up, but seeing Pei Jing scolding him like that, he suddenly felt a bit unwilling.


    He remembered at that time, his mother had been trying to persuade him, wanting him to marry An ZhiXia.


    But he liked An MeiYun then, so naturally he refused, and just dragged it out like that, and then came the news that uncle wanted to marry her.


    Thinking about it now, that hastily arranged wedding was clearly premeditated.


    "Did Gao Second Sister tell you that?" Pei Jing didn''t need to doubt, "Pei JianGuo, let me give you one more piece of advice, your brain isn''t there just for show, it can also be used to think!"


    He wasn''t worried that Pei JianGuo would have memories of a past life, that diary had been mostly destroyed up till now, and the tiny portion that wasn''t destroyed was still under An ZhiXia''s control, outsiders had no way of obtaining it.


    The trading device in the space, other than An ZhiXia, even he and the children had no control over it.


    Also in the space, even a scrap of paper, they couldn''t bring out.


    The car sounded, and a long time after Pei Jing left, Pei JianGuo still couldn''t get up from the ground.


    Clutching his chest, he stumbled back and knocked on the door of his home. Wang Yue opened the door, and saw his half-dead appearance, with a clear footprint imprinted on the pure white shirt. Pei JianGuo''s face was pale, his forehead covered in cold sweat of agony.


    "Son, what''s happened? Was it Pei Jing?" Wang Yue instantly exploded, both heartache and worry, while also hating Pei Jing through gritted teeth.


    "Mom, don''t worry, I''ll be fine after lying down for a bit." Pei JianGuo waved away her hand trying to support him, and went upstairs by himself with difficulty.


    Pei Jing had been dyed for so long that by the time he returned home, it was already midnight.


    An ZhiXia was still thinking and hadn''t gone to sleep yet. Hearing movement outside, she nked for a moment, then immediately stood up and ran outside.


    Opening the door, Pei Jing had just gotten out of the car.


    An ZhiXia''s tranquil little face instantly turned from overcast to sunny, revealing a big smile, "I''ll open the door, you drive the car in, don''t want it getting identally scratched."


    "Okay." Pei Jing got back into the car, and drove it into the yard.


    The children were already asleep, the house was quiet, only the light in Chenye''s room was still on, but he didn''te out, unclear if he was asleep or not.


    Pei Jing pulled An ZhiXia into the room, and said: "I just came back from Pei JianGuo''s ce, An ZhiXia, I remember I said before that if you''re bullied, you have to tell me. What did you do?"


    "I didn''t..." She wanted to say she wasn''t bullied, but Pei JianGuo''s tone really made her feel awful.


    Also, other than spouting threats, Pei JianGuo didn''t actually have any ability, she was still thinking about how to deal with Gao Second Sister.


    She was the one scheming things behind the scenes, without her, Pei JianGuo was nothing to fear.


    But thinking Pei Jing had asked, he must already know everything that happened, An ZhiXia didn''t try to evade anymore, and asked back, "How did you know? Did the kids tattle?"


    The several kids in the family were crafty, this wasn''t the first time.


    She also didn''t know how they conspired, the few children had simply be his eyes in the family, An ZhiXia couldn''t hide anything from him.


    "That''s not something you should be concerned with, Comrade An ZhiXia, I''m settling ounts with you now, don''t change the subject." Pei Jing said as sternly as he could.


    "Oh fine, it''s not a big deal anyway, don''t you understand what kind of person your nephew is, he''s just like that, what use is it for you toe back and scold him for a few days, after a while he''ll be the same again, you can''te back every time right?"


    To deal with itpletely and permanently was also a bit unrealistic.


    Pei JianGuo was the type to not make huge mistakes but small mistakes frequently, and verbal warnings were useless on him.


    Pei Jing could also hear the helplessness in her tone, and sighed, "Sorry, from now on he absolutely won''t dare to do this again."


    "You hit him?" This was An ZhiXia''s first reaction.


    Pei Jing nodded, "He deserved to be hit, I regret now that I hit him toote, too lightly."


    If he had known earlier that he dared to act so recklessly, he should have severely taught him a lesson long ago.


    Pei Jing had to do it himself to be clear, although that kick didn''t seem heavy, it was enough to make Pei JianGuo suffer for a period of time, and also for him to learn a long lesson.


    Just as he said, brains are for thinking, not for decoration.


    An ZhiXia of course wouldn''t plead for Pei JianGuo. For things like being wronged and having someone make a special trip back to take revenge for her, thatforted her even more.


    That original An ZhiXia had been extremely deprived of love, although reborn again, no longer demanding those ethereal things, but who didn''t hope they could be cherished?


    She was moved and hugged Pei Jing''s waist, "You''re so good."


    Pei Jing gave a lowugh, then suddenly restrained himself and said, "The problem isn''t with Pei JianGuo, at most he''s just an annoyance who doesn''t dare do anything out of line. Rather, it''s that Gao Second Sister, she seems to want to use Pei JianGuo to do something, actually directing Pei JianGuo towards that nonexistent world..."


    "I know, it was also me being careless, originally feeling like these siblings wouldn''t cause much trouble..." so she didn''t deal a fatal blow, only thinking of trapping them in that mountain vige.


    An ZhiXia hurriedly stopped speaking, looking up to see Pei Jing looking at her thoughtfully.


    "If I had known earlier they wouldn''t let me go, I should have taken precautions sooner." She hurriedly changed the subject, absolutely not daring to reveal her dark thoughts to Pei Jing.


    Even if they broke thew, they should be punished by thew, not her personally taking action.


    Pei Jing was an upright military man, but she wasn''t. She didn''t even dare let him know of her dark side.


    An ZhiXia thought she was concealing it well, but how could someone as perceptive as Pei Jing not notice.


    With a suspicious look, he said, "Leave Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin''s side to me, I''ll investigate these siblings properly through legitimate means. Their sudden wealth while having an experience like yours, they definitely can''t withstand investigation."


    Domestic prices were still very low nowadays, it was impossible for them to be so wealthy through normal means.


    Just that one small vi in Jincheng alone couldn''t be bought cheaply, not to mention the batch of controllers they intercepted was worth over 100,000 yuan, and they had bought it at a high price back then. And they were also nning to bid on governmentnd, in just a few short years being able to amass a fortune worth tens of thousands. If it was all through proper channels, even Pei Jing would be forced to admire them.

 Chapter 372: 372 If a plan fails, another plan is born.

    <h4>Chapter 372</h4>


    "Let Pei Jing go instead. If you go investigate this yourself, wouldn''t it be making too big of a fuss?" Zhi Xia had also considered this issue before, but the only person she could use here was Pei Jing.


    Moreover, Pei Jing had his own responsibilities. Helping her investigate this, she was also afraid it would impact him.


    "Pei Jing can only stalk them. You won''t be able ask around about Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin''s whereabouts from the past yourself." He was different. When they went on long trips, they must have taken the train. He only needed to check the ticket records.


    Zhi Xia could only believe he was a man with good judgement. Since he spoke like this, then let him do it.


    It was good that she could save herself the trouble.


    Orders for Hongfeng Appliances were too high. They were currently nning on opening a branch factory. She was busy to the point her feet didn''t touch the ground, and she had no time to do anything else.


    Zhi Xia only heard that he had beaten up Pei JianGuo, but didn''t know he had beaten him so severely.


    The next afternoon, Pei Yong came. He didn''te to me them, he just wanted to know what mistake Pei JianGuo hadmitted this time for Pei Jing to kick and break two of his ribs.


    Pei Jing himself didn''t expect it to be so serious either, sost night when he returned home, he endured the pain for a whole night until this morning when the pain grew worse and worse, to the point Pei JianGuo couldn''t even get up. Only then did he have Wang Yue call someone to take him to the hospital.


    When Zhi Xia heard the news at the hospital after a series of examinations, it was discovered two ribs in front of his chest were fractured, no wonder the pain was so severe.


    Upon hearing this news, Zhi Xia turned her head in surprise to look at Pei Jing.


    He was very calm instead, not surprised at all, and calmly told Pei Yong what happened.


    "You hit him too lightly!" Pei Yong said angrily, but when facing Zhi Xia, he felt somewhat ashamed, and could only apologize on Pei JianGuo''s behalf.


    Zhi Xia also knew Pei Yong''s difficulty, and of course wouldn''t me Pei JianGuo''s mistakes on her, there was no reason for that.


    After Pei Yong left, Zhi Xia asked Pei Jing, "You broke his ribs, howe you didn''t tell me?"


    "Otherwise what did you think I did, tickled him?" And this was still under controlled force. If he didn''t hold back and used his full strength, Pei Jing could have directly kicked him to death.


    Of course, this wasn''t entirely his aplishment either. Without Zhi Xia, his physical ability would at most be slightly stronger than an average person, and wouldn''t be clearly superior like it was now when he didn''t try to hide it.


    At the hospital, Pei JianGuo was lying in bed, and the doctor who happened to diagnose him was An ZhiXian.


    The two could be considered old acquaintances. Although Pei JianGuo wasn''t of the same circle as them, after all they grew up together from childhood.


    As per his routine, after An ZhiXian finished rounds in the wards, he took the time to return to Pei JianGuo''s room and jokingly asked, "Got beaten up? What''s going on?"


    Would Pei JianGuo dare tell him he went to threaten An ZhiXian, which led to his current predicament?


    Clearly, he didn''t dare. He could only vaguely say, "I identally offended someone, don''t gloat over my misfortune."


    "Alright, then focus on recovering. If there are any issues have Auntiee get me." An ZhiXian patted his arm. Because the only person who brought him here was Wang Yue.


    Just as he was about to leave, a woman rushed in with tears in her eyes and threw herself at Pei JianGuo, "JianGuo, what happened to you? How did you get so severely injured? Are you okay?"


    Wang Yue wasn''t here. She went to the front desk to pay the medical fees.


    Pei JianGuo was afraid An ZhiXian would recognize Gao Second Sister, his entire body seemed very tense, "I''m fine."


    An ZhiXian felt the woman who came to see Pei JianGuo seemed a bit familiar, but definitely not his first two ex-wives.


    He silently raised his brows, then left the hospital room. But he thought to himself that although Pei JianGuo was useless everywhere else, his luck with women didn''t seem bad.


    Of course, it wasn''t the type of luck he envied.


    If he was fickle himself, the nurses at the hospital would have already gone crazy for him.


    He wasn''t boasting, with his tall stature wearing a white coat, his entire body emitted an air of cold, abstinent allure that easily stirred the hearts of young girls.


    Unfortunately, that wasn''t his goal. He only wanted to do his job well.


    Inside the hospital room, Gao Second Sister was still asking Pei JianGuo, "Was it because of my matters that you ended up like this? JianGuo, I''m sorry. Forget about this matter, losing a bit of money is just losing money. I''d rather be poorer, than see you suffer for my sake."


    At this time, Pei JianGuo felt deeply gratified, but also more remorseful towards Gao Second Sister. "Qingcheng, don''t me me. It was me who overestimated that woman, I didn''t expect she would still quibble over such an old matter many yearster. You didn''t see her stubborn and unreasonable manner. I was also in the wrong for slipping words. That''s why my uncle disciplined me."


    Even when the family all lived together before separating the family assets, no one in the family dared confront Pei Jing other than Grandfather Pei.


    He was different from Pei Yong and Pei Sheng. He lost his mother early in childhood. For a few years he was raised under Grandpa Ann''s knees who personally taught him. Later when the country stabilized, he returned to his birth father, but didn''t stay for long before going to the army.


    By that time his personality had already formed, steady andposed, earning the praise of those around him.


    Also because he once lived at the An Family for a few years, other than Grandfather Pei he was the closest in the family to the An Family .


    Perhaps because he was less familiar, and adding on Pei Jing''s coldness, no one dared offend him.


    When the family first lived together, Pei JianGuo was overly pampered at home. Pei Jing would often discipline him.


    Initially Wang Yue felt he was just a child and shouldn''t take him seriously, butter she changed her perspective of him. Pei Jing also became the person she didn''t dare provoke the most in the family.


    Last night after initially getting beaten, Pei JianGuo held a lot of resentment towards Pei Jing, but after a night passed where the pain kept him from sleeping at all, and as he continuously thought a lot, he graduallyforted himself.


    He even naively thought that since he broke two ribs, his uncle''s anger should also be gone no matter how big it was. When he recovered he would apologize again. His uncle shouldn''t still hold it against him.


    It was innate habits formed since he was little. He was born this type of person, it was truly difficult for him to change.


    Gao Second Sister''s expression secretly darkened.


    This fool really didn''t have any promise at all. He stillforted himself after getting beaten.


    But in a moment of impulse, she had already given herself to himpletely. Firing an arrow without leaving any path to turn back, Gao Second Sister felt she never done any deals at a loss.


    Since there was no path forward with An ZhiXian, then the only option was...


    "JianGuo, I regret this now. If I knew earlier this would turn you into what you currently are, I''d rather not want anything and just work hard in the future. As long as you''re okay, that''s all that matters. With you lying here, you don''t know how painful my heart is..."


    For now Pei JianGuo still needed to be soothed. After all, his current position was special, and there were still many ces where she could make use of himter.


    After losing out with An ZhiXian, she certainly needed to make up for losses elsewhere.

 Chapter 373: 373. It鈥檚 Her Only Chance.

    <h4>Chapter 373</h4>


    Gao Second Sister was wholeheartedly trying to coax Pei JianGuo first, but she didn''t know that everything she said now was being heard clearly by a big white mouse hiding in the dark.


    Yuan Bao rushed back home and directly into ZhiXia''s room. Pei Jing was also inside, which made the cheering Yuan Bao instantly not dare to make trouble anymore. It obediently walked over with its legs.


    ZhiXia took off the thing she had tied around its neck. Inside was a small recorder. She turned on the recorder and heard everything Gao Second Sister and Pei JianGuo had said in the ward clearly.


    "ording to my current understanding, Gao Second Sister''s next step should be to get into real estate. Pei JianGuo was transferred to the Construction Bureau by coincidence. He is muddled-headed and is likely to be used by Gao Second Sister to do some irregr things. If this is really the case, will it affect you?" ZhiXia didn''t care about Pei JianGuo at all. She was just afraid that Pei Jing would be implicated.


    After all, Pei Jing''s current identity was somewhat special. Even if he was not involved in this matter, it would definitely have an impact on his future promotion.


    Pei Jing sighed. He also knew that ZhiXia''s worries were not groundless.


    Pei JianGuo''s biggest shoring was not that he was stupid but unaware of it, but that he was fickle, especially when those around him had problems, which made him even more likely to be taken advantage of and impulsive.


    "Don''t worry about this. I''ll pay special attention to his side."


    Pei JianGuo stayed in the hospital for several days, then went home to recuperate for a period of time before he could go to work.


    At the same time, the date for the 1stnd auction held by the government was determined.


    There were also quite a few rich people in Jin City, as well as some external investors who were paying attention to this matter. But there were few who were really ready to take action.


    After all, Jin City was different from Shen City. Thetter was a key economic development zone with peopleing and going all the time. The demand for real estate exceeded supply, so prices rose naturally fast.


    But Jin City was in the early stages of development. The local rich already had their own properties. Ordinary workers might not be able to afford them. Even if they could afford them, few would buy houses recklessly. Most still relied on the housing that could be allocated by their work units.


    As for the few outsiders who came to the city to make a living, most wanted to make money and go back to their hometowns to build houses. The thinking of most people was to return to their roots. Unless forced to the extreme, few would choose to leave theirfort zone.


    On Pei JianGuo��s first day back at work in the government, he was called into the office by the leader.


    At first, there were concerns and Pei JianGuo was excited, thinking that this was the leader''s appreciation of him, so he would offer more condolences after his injury had healed.


    However, the tone changed and the leader handed Pei JianGuo a post, "I heard from your former leader in the government that you have a capable aunt who, at a young age, has set up a factory. Although Hongfeng Appliances has not existed for a long time, it has been very popr in the past six months. You can hear this name wherever you go. It is said that the capable person works more. Thisnd auction is the first one held by our Construction Bureau. We have to make it sensational. Since you have this rtionship, you might as well send a post to Manager An and ask if she intends to expand into the real estate industry. This is the task assigned to our city by higher authorities, and the government has also given great support. If handled properly, it will benefit all of us."


    The smile on Pei JianGuo''s face froze instantly.


    If it had been some time ago, he would have happily taken on this task.


    But after the recent conflict, asking An ZhiXia again would be like begging her. Pei JianGuo couldn��t swallow that.


    Moreover, he also knew that Qingcheng attached great importance to this real estate auction, regarding it as the capital that could help turn things around in the future. If An ZhiXia was invited, wouldn''t that mean there would be one more opponent for Qingcheng?


    An ZhiXia was unwilling to help on her side, and Qingcheng lost almost all the controllers she had bought, only managing to sell them to others at half the purchase price.


    She did consider producing other parts on her own so that she couldpete with Hongfeng Appliances, but the production of home appliances required a lot of machinery, which was another huge investment.


    Gao Second Sister''s funds were limited, so she didn''t dare move any of it at all at the moment.


    After thinking twice about it, she decided to keep enough capital for future real estate development. After making money in real estate, the loss on those controllers would be nothing.


    Holding the post in his hand, Pei JianGuo struggled for a while before going to see Gao Qing to share his difficulties. After all, she was the only one he could talk to now.


    However, Gao Second Sister had ideas of her own. "Since that��s the case, just don''t give it to her. Leaders won''t know anyway. They will definitely think she is not interested herself. JianGuo, don''t think I��m being petty. I just don''t want to see you so embarrassed."


    Pei JianGuo smiled and said fondly, "I know you mean well, but I have to not only deliver this post but also make sure she agrees to participate."


    Otherwise, why would the leader give him this task in the first ce?


    It was precisely because of the rtionship between them that the leader wanted him to persuade An ZhiXia toe and participate, and even hoped that she could win the bid.


    Pei JianGuo had been in the workce for so many years after all. He could see through the leader''s intentions.


    Although there were several Hong Kong investors, it was well known that while Hong Kong investors had money, they were hard to deal with, while An ZhiXia��s Hongfeng Appliances was right there in Jin City. She herself was the major shareholder of Huasheng Hotel. As the big boss behind the Shen City Jiaoyan, all this wasmon knowledge.


    The An family had once been a prominent local n. If she seeded in attracting investment, not only was she rich, she would definitely be more cooperative, and would try her best to cooperate with the government��s nning.


    As for those Hong Kong investors, who knew if they would cooperate with the government? Relying on their wealth, they might even make all kinds of demands.


    Thend for this auction was located in downtown Jin City. The Construction Bureau hadpleted the nning, intending to turn thend into arge shopping mall to attract more visitors.


    Once the flow of people increased, development would naturally get better and better.


    Seeing Gao Second Sister bow her head in thought, Pei JianGuo took out another post from his bag, "Don''t worry, I got one for you too. Although the leader hopes that my aunt can win the bid, since it''s an investment promotion event after all, the final price will definitely determine the winner."


    Upon hearing this, Gao Second Sister became even more embarrassed. "Of course I know that. That''s why I''m worried. After my brother was cheated on those fan controllers, my brother and I have very limited funds left. I don''t know if there will be another chance in the future if we lose the bid."


    Pei JianGuo smiled andforted her without realizing what she meant, "Don''t worry about this. If the nning this time is very sessful, there will only be more such opportunities in the future. Even if we don''t seed this time, there will always be a next time."


    Gao Second Sister was so annoyed. This idiot didn''t get her hint at all.


    But she still had to maintain her image of being kind and generous in front of Pei JianGuo and couldn''t ask him directly for help.


    She must not give An ZhiXia the post either.


    An ZhiXia already had such great achievements in the home appliance industry. Why did she have toe andpete with her for real estate too?!


    Although it wasn''t hers yet, one morepetitor meant her chances could only be lower.


    But before she could do anything, Gao Second Sister and her brother Gao Dalin were arrested the day before their scheduled licensing.


    Pei JianGuo was still busy running around for them. It was only then that he realized that Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin''s money was obtained through smuggling.


    When the four special economic zones first opened up, there were quite a few who got rich like this too.


    Pei JianGuo''s superiors told him that if he wanted to keep his position, he should keep his distance from Gao Second Sister as much as possible.


    Because this time, senior officials wanted to investigate Gao Second Sister.


    ZhiXia was at home talking to Pei Jing on the phone.


    He told her that Gao Second Sister had been taken care of. With all the daring things the siblings were involved in illegal business, and the amount was considerable. Moreover, legal institutions were stillcking at present, and everything would be subject to severe penalties. The hope for them to get out was small. In more serious cases, the death penalty might even be sentenced.


    The firstnd auction held by the government ended, and the winner was a Hong Kong businessman. Know Xia was in this circle and it was not difficult to hear about such things, but she did not take it to heart.


    A person''s energy is always limited, Gao Dalin and his sister have gone in, she still decided to put more mind on the appliance factory.


    Once met the leader of the government department in Huasheng after eating. He asked if she was not interested in real estate. She then knew that Pei JianGuo had sent her a post for thest auction, but she did not receive it.


    She knew the reason without thinking since Gao Second Sister had not had an ident yet.


    But she did not know whether Gao Second Sister destroyed the post and Pei JianGuo chose to cover up, or thought that Pei JianGuo deliberately held a grudge against her. After all, the two had disagreed more than once.


    She would not cover up for Pei JianGuo and told the leader straightforwardly that she did not receive the post.


    It could be seen that the leader''s face turned gloomy instantly.


    After entering the Huasheng Hotel, she knew that the person who had dinner with him today was the Hong Kong businessman who won the bid. However, it seemed that the cooperation between them was not so pleasant.


    Even for government departments, the treatment of begging others to invest and others begging them to invest is worlds apart.


    Moreover, whether rich or powerful, who is willing to tter others?


    Gao Dalin had always been wary of his wife in money and business. So after Gao Dalin was arrested, his wife did notmit a crime, and promptly applied for a divorce and quickly severed all ties.


    Only the small building of the Gao family was sealed, which was originally sold to Gao Dalin with her bride price money, so she had nowhere to go. She knew even clearer that if she returned to her natal family, her father could sell her a second time if he could sell her a second time, maybe to an old man much older than Gao Dalin, still better than Gao Dalin.


    With no one to turn to, she could only think of Pei JianGuo.


    Because Gao Second Sister was arrested, and Pei JianGuo had suffered consecutive setbacks at work recently, the contradictions between Pei JianGuo and Wang Yue were also on the verge of breaking out.


    He felt very upset, simply hid out and moved back to his old house, at least it could be quieter.


    Liu Chunhua knew Pei JianGuo''s address, so she went directly to find him.


    At this time, she was still pregnant with Gao Dalin''s child, already three months, and had not started to show.


    She knocked on the door, and no one opened it.


    But Liu Chunhua refused to give up. At this point, Pei JianGuo could not be not at home.


    Moreover, in the two days after Gao Dalin was arrested, he told her that if she encountered difficulties, she coulde here to find him.


    Knowing that he still had to go to work during the day, Liu Chunhua deliberately chose this time when he was off work toe.


    After knocking for a long time, a hoarse voice came from inside, "Coming..."


    The door opened, and the smell of broken wine rushed over, making the pregnant Liu Chunhua nauseous for a moment.


    Pei JianGuo''s face was flushed, he opened the door and turned back again, without even saying hello.


    Liu Chunhua walked in, and saw the room in a mess.


    Pei JianGuo sat casually on the floor, his white shirt was already messy, and there were two bottles of wine lying around his feet.


    "Oh my god, how much did you drink?" Liu Chunhua asked in surprise.


    "Hehe..." Pei JianGuo was no longer sober, heughed mockingly twice, picked up the wine bottle and took a few more sips.


    "Stop drinking, how can you do this?"


    Liu Chunhua hurriedly went to grab the bottle in his hand. Pei JianGuo did notpete with her and casually threw it away, smacked his lips, andy directly on the stiff floor.


    She took great pains to wake him up and help him lie down in the bedroom.


    She originally came to ask him for help, but seeing him drunk like this, she guessed this trip was in vain.


    Liu Chunhua looked at the mess in the living room, and out of habit of doing housework, she tidied it up.


    After tidying up the living room, looking at the clean and tidy ce in front of her, she felt morefortable.


    But there was still some smell of alcohol that had not dissipated, a little unpleasant.


    She found a porcin bottle, drew some water, and took a towel to the bedroom.


    After drinking more than a bottle of liquor, even with a fan blowing, Pei JianGuo was covered in sweat, feeling like his whole body was on fire, and he was ufortable no matter how he slept, tossing and turning restlessly.


    Liu Chunhua dipped the towel in cold water to wipe his face. His shirt had already been torn open by himself due to the heat, revealing arge piece of chest.


    Unlike Gao Dalin''s coarseness, Pei JianGuo was handsome, and even with some stubble on his chin, it did not detract from his good looks at all, but rather gave a sense of decadent beauty.


    Liu Chunhua stared nkly for a moment.


    Such a good man, why was he abused by that shrew Gao Second Sister?


    And her, the vigers all said she was beautiful, but could only devote herself to the sloppy, ugly and unclean Gao Dalin!


    As Liu Chunhua looked at him, she thought of her experiences in recent times, the scenes of being forced and repeatedly insulted by Gao Dalin, and she could not help but shed tears of grievance.


    Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin had broken thew, and she was finally liberated, but there was still this evil seed in her belly, and her future life was also deste and at a loss, what should she do?


    She hesitated repeatedly, and finally put her hand on Pei JianGuo''s chest.


    Perhaps this was the opportunity left to her by heaven, and it was also the only opportunity she could grasp at the moment.

 Chapter 374: 374 Reap the Consequences

    <h4>Chapter 374</h4>


    Pei JianGuo was in a daze, feeling a burning sensation all over his body. A fire was randomly jumping around inside him but couldn''t find an outlet.


    Squinting, he couldn''t see the scene clearly in front of him. He could only vaguely feel someone''s hands roaming over his body, stimting him to be even more fiery.


    Who was it?


    He remembered Guo Momo didn''t want him anymore, he didn''t want Lu Keqin himself anymore, and Gao Qingcheng was caught for smuggling.


    Who else could be with him now?


    ...


    A sh of white light went through his mind, and Pei JianGuo also stopped moving along with it.


    The scene in front of him gradually became clear, and a woman''s crying was right by his ear.


    He sobered up, only to feel a burning sensation below him.


    "How is it you, how are you in my home?" Pei JianGuo was so scared that he violently retracted his body, only to find the bed sheet below had been stained red with blood.


    Liu Chunhua curled up on the bed crying ceaselessly. Her paleplexion showed her agony.


    He swallowed hard with difficulty. The heat left his body, and the scene in front of him made his heart turn ice-cold.


    He couldn''t remember clearly what he had done.


    He only felt a moment of pleasure before opening his eyes to see Liu Chunhua in this state.


    "It hurts so much, save me..."


    This was also something Liu Chunhua didn''t expect.


    She only wanted to cling onto Pei JianGuo to find a way out for herself.


    But she didn''t expect him to be so licentious when drunk.


    At first she tried very hard to arouse him, but didn''t expect him to be more and more aggressive until she begged for mercy which didn''t work.


    He seemed to have a belly full of anger that he took out all on her.


    She couldn''t bear it, and her abdomen kept cramping.


    Pei JianGuo was scared witless, but he also understood the scene before him needed to be dealt with as soon as possible.


    ...


    In the middle of the night, An ZhiXian called ZhiXia.


    "ZhiXia, do you know what''s up with Pei JianGuo? In the dead of night, he brought a pregnant woman to the hospital. I just went to the obstetrics department to inquire. I heard it was a young couple who didn''t know restraint leading to a miscarriage."


    ZhiXia was also puzzled. "I don''t know anything about Pei JianGuo''s matters."


    As for that pregnant woman, Gao Second Sister had already been caught, it shouldn''t be her right?


    "What''s the name of that pregnant woman?"


    "The medical record shows Liu Chunhua."


    Having paid attention to Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin for a while, ZhiXia immediately knew who it was. "Liu Chunhua is Gao Dalin''s daughter-inw. Recently Pei JianGuo has been entangled with Gao Second Sister constantly. It''s not hard to understand him helping Liu Chunhua too."


    Pei JianGuo''s affair with Gao Second Sister as an object was already well known when Gao Second Sister and Gao Dalin were caught.


    Because at first those two days, he was still running around for those two siblings.


    "Since this is the case, just let him be. It''s useless to advise someone with a muddled mind." An ZhiXian said in disgust.


    He thought Pei JianGuo got into some romantic troubles again. After all, although this kid had little capability, his peach blossom luck was quite good, although they were all rotten peach blossoms, each more unreliable than thest.


    "Alright, I''ll go to sleep first. Third brother, you should rest soon too, it''s sote, yet you''re still at the hospital." ZhiXia said with a yawn. She had already fallen asleep and hurriedly got up when she heard the phone ringing in the living room.


    "There was an emergency today, but it''s already finished. I was just about to go back and rest." An ZhiXian exined.


    Pei JianGuo kept vigil at the hospital for a night. The child in Liu Chunhua''s belly could not be kept. She had just undergone surgery and was fine, though still weak.


    That night, his mind was very messy. Standing outside the operating room, he couldn''t help letting his thoughts run wild.


    Not until the morning did Liu Chunhua regain consciousness.


    Pei JianGuo apprehensively entered the ward and said dejectedly, "I''m sorry, I really didn''t mean to do thatst night. I also don''t know what came over me. When I woke up... it was like that!"


    He did drink a lot that time and waspletely unconscious.


    He even suspected Liu Chunhua took advantage of his drunken state to try something with him. After all, with Gao Dalin and Gao Second Sister''s properties all confiscated, she was now destitute without any support, and pregnant without a ce to live. It was not surprising she would have crooked ideas.


    This time Pei JianGuo finally wisened up a bit about women.


    Getting emotionally involved with women would only end up hurting himself in the end.


    Liu Chunhua was obedient and diligent in the Gao family, doingundry, cooking, and cleaning withoutint, a typical virtuous wife and loving mother type.


    No matter what, he Pei JianGuo was still much better than Gao Dalin right?


    Marrying Liu Chunhua not only resolved the aftermath of this incident, but having such a dutiful wife, he could also devote more energy to his work.


    In the future she would manage the household, while he worked hard. It was actually in line with his adolescent fantasies about his future wife.


    After three women, Pei JianGuo also opened up.


    Dating women, the only one who would get hurt in the end is himself.


    Liu Chunhua just cried with her face covered, not saying a word.


    Time passed bit by bit, and her crying turned into sobs. She sadly raised her head to look at Pei JianGuo, "Forget it, I don''t me you. I know with Second Sister in jail you are also very distressed. Last night you also mistook me for Second Sister, so you would...do that..."


    After speaking, she sorrowfully covered her lower abdomen, "As for this child, we also didn''t have fate. Him leaving is also good. Otherwise born with such a father, he would only be ridiculed. Noting to this world means he doesn''t have to suffer."


    Although she spoke like this, her pained expression didn''t seem fake, making Pei JianGuo feel a bit of heartache for a moment.


    Perhaps he was overthinking. Such a weak woman who was like a background board when at the Gao family, how could she be so scheming?


    Clearly he was the one who harmed her, yet he still suspected her with ill intentions. Pei JianGuo, Pei JianGuo, his father scolding him was indeed right, you really are a bastard!


    "Don''t cry anymore. You''ve just had surgery and your body is still weak. The doctor said you need to recuperate properly afterward." Pei JianGuo said, "You...it''s already happened. I know apologizing now is meaningless. If you''re willing, I...I can marry you."


    This was the bestpensation he could think of, and could also tie down Liu Chunhua with marriage.


    Otherwise, if she impulsively reported it to the police or did anything outrageous on a whim, his life would be over.


    After three women, Pei JianGuo also became open-minded.


    Dating women, the only one who gets hurt in the end is himself.


    Liu Chunhua was obedient and diligent in the Gao family, doingundry, cooking, and cleaning withoutint, a typical virtuous wife and loving mother type.


    No matter what, he Pei JianGuo was still much better than Gao Dalin right?


    Marrying Liu Chunhua not only resolved the aftermath of this incident, but having such a dutiful wife, he could also devote more energy to his work.


    In the future she would manage the household, while he worked hard. It was actually in line with his adolescent fantasies about his future wife.

 Chapter 375: 375 To Achieve Purpose

    <h4>Chapter 375</h4>


    Liu Chunhua looked up in surprise, incredulously saying: "You...are you serious?"


    Although this was her initial scheme, she had never thought her hopes would be so easily fulfilled.


    It felt a little like a dream.


    "Yeah, do you want to?" Pei Jianguo asked again.


    "I..." Liu Chunhua was stunned by this news, almostughing excitedly. At this moment, the pain from the miscarriage waspletely gone, only a feeling of aplishment filling her heart.


    Fortunately, she knew better than to appear too ted, or it would easily arouse suspicion that this had been her ploy all along.


    The cramps in her belly weren''t fake, and coupled with the pallor on her face from blood loss, it was easy for her to put on a fragile, hesitantplexity.


    "Of course I''m willing. You know my family situation too. If I go back to my maiden home, I might even be sold off again by my family. Naturally I''d eagerly take you up on this. It''s just...I''m just worried about wronging you. After all,st night, you mistook me for Gao Second Sister and refused to let go."


    People can burst out with potential beyond their own expectations when desperate.


    Liu Chunhua had always felt she was stupid, but at this critical juncture, she had also learned the art of conversing.


    On the surface she was saying she was afraid of wronging Pei Jianguo, while also subtly reminding him thatst night he had mistaken her for Gao Second Sister and forced himself on her.


    So he owed her and should take responsibility for her.


    Although she hadn''t expected the child in her belly to leave in this way, even without this ident, Liu Chunhua would not have kept a child whose father was in jail.


    She knew her own limits. She could barely survive herself, let alone raise another child. It was simply unrealistic.


    At the moment, Pei Jianguo had no desire to talk too much with her, much less listen to her woes. He was just relieved that she had agreed.


    As long as her heart was inclined towards him, this matter would not be exposed, and he would be safe.


    Only the two of them knew what happenedst night, and no third person would find out.


    "It''s good that you agree. You rest first, you can be discharged this afternoon. The Gao family''s house has been confiscated so you have no ce to stay. You might as well just move to my ce directly. It''ll also be more convenient for me to take care of you. In a couple days when you''ve recovered, we can go register our marriage." Speaking to this point, Pei Jianguo was suddenly doubtful and asked her, "Did you previously register your marriage with Gao Dalin?"


    "We didn''t register our marriage. Few people register marriages in the countryside. He just gave my dad bride price money, then took me back with him." Moreover, a few days ago I officially terminated the rtionship with him in front of the neighborhoodmittee. I have no ties with him now." Liu Chunhua hurried to exin, sounding a little anxious. Her eyes also shrank back, as if afraid Pei Jianguo wouldn''t believe her.


    In fact, Pei Jianguo didn''t care about any of that. He only cared about his own safety and his job. "Then what about your household registration?"


    "My household registration is still at my dad''s ce." For some reason, it seemed Gao Dalin had only wanted to buy a maid to sleep with, treating her as a servant to exploit. This situation had persisted until he found out she was pregnant, only improving a little then.


    Pei Jianguo also knew about this. In the past he had even felt bad for her and advised Gao Dalin to treat her better.


    On the surface Gao Dalin behaved quite well, but once back in the room he still didn''t treat her like a human, only caring about his own pleasure.


    Pei Jing had sent his few children to the army, even PingAn had been sent away to train by him.


    Pei Jianguo didn''t care for or ask after the children. In the past he''d always let Pei Yong take charge. Guo Momo was unwilling to agree, as she had only just returned to reunite with her son, and also wanted to spend more time with him.


    On the surface PingAn didn''t refuse, but he directly packed up and ran off with a few uncles. He had only left Pei Yong a letter. By the time Pei Jianguo found out, PingAn was probably already at the army.


    Only Wanqing was left at home, mainly because she was a girl. If she was exposed to the wind and rain training for two months, she wouldn''t look proper when she came back. Zhi Xia couldn''t agree to let her ruin her skin like that.


    Fortunately this child had been very naughty when little, but as she grew up she developed some gentle and elegant bearing, no longer running around everywhere, and also letting her hair grow out.


    The 13 year old girl had a bit of the air of a girl next dooring of age, unlike Zhi Xia''s gentle features. Her looks tended more towards a dazzling boldness, and her features were also more simr to Pei Jing''s.


    Maybe it was gic, but aside from their youngest son, all the children resembled their father more.


    Yun Yan was a year older than Wanqing. She didn''t know how she had gotten to know Chenye, but she hade to the house looking for him once, though by then he had already gone to the army.


    Yun Yan said she had just moved here and didn''t have many friends, so she took the initiative to befriend Wanqing, wanting her to bring her into the local children''s circle.


    The children here had mostly grown up in this area since birth, so it was quite difficult for outsiders to integrate without someone to lead them in.


    Today, Yun Yan was visibly more excited. She jogged into Zhi Xia''s home, "Wanqing, something bad happened! Your eldest uncle is beating someone behind the house and even closed the main gate!"


    "My eldest uncle? Beating who?" Recently Wanqing had been busy learning to make clothes, because she had a doll that could change outfits. With her brothers away from home, she was bored and started ying with dolls.


    What she really wanted was to go watch TV, but her mom kept her from watching too much, afraid it would ruin her eyesight.


    "He''s beating that cousin of yours who married so many wives. He brought a new wife here, and it made your eldest uncle furious!" Yun Yan''s eyes lit up when she talked about Pei Jianguo, even though he didn''t live here. The neighborhood aunties certainly gossiped about him a lot.


    Saying that even though he was so young, he had already married so many wives. He had prospects.


    The children didn''t understand anything, and even thought having many wives meant you really had prospects. They kept parroting that when they grew up they also wanted many wives.


    The adults onlyughed at the children''s ignorance.


    "Do you want to go see? When I came over, many people were peeking in through the cracks of the door!"


    "I don''t want to go see. I''m going to go y at my grandma''s ceter." The few times Pei Jianguo hade to the house looking for Zhi Xia, the children had taken note of it, erasing any good feelings they''d had for him. Now they just hoped he would get a beating.


    "You''re going to your grandma''s ce? Don''t go, just stay here and y with me." Yun Yan ran over intimately pulling her arm back and forth.


    Wanqing was a little ufortable, dodging as she said: "I already promised my grandma I would go stay with her a few days. I also have to go with her shopping at the mall tomorrow. It wouldn''t be good to break a promise."


    Liu Ling had taken her children to find An Zhiqing. An Zhiren and his wife hadn''t been back for two years. An ZhiXian was being pressed to get married, so she simply lived at the hospital directly. An ZhiAng''s child was still young, so Zhou Nan could onlye by asionally.


    Now that this person had free time, she suddenly felt a bit bored, and thought to have Wanqinge over to stay a few days.


    Anyway, Zhi Xia was busy every day, sometimes onlying back in the wee hours.

 Chapter 376: 376 Meddling

    <h4>Chapter 376</h4>


    When ZhiXia got off work and returned home, Wan Qing was no longer at home.


    She had already told herself in the morning that she was going to stay at An Jia''s house for a few days, and Sister Zhang had also passed on the message to her.


    Learning about the muddled things Pei JianGuo did from Sister Zhang, ZhiXia realized that she was no longer surprised.


    If one day, Pei JianGuo really became reliable, that would probably be the most frightening thing.


    Pei JianGuo was severely beaten, it was Pei Yong who used a stick as thick as a rolling pin to beat him until the stick cracked and Pei JianGuo''s back was soaked with blood and water before he stopped.


    It was the day Pei JianGuo brought Liu Chunhua to recognize the door, but in the end he could only be helped out.


    Liu Chunhua had just had a miscarriage a few days ago, and her body was also very weak. Pei Yong finally couldn''t bear to ignore it, so he took him to the hospital.


    It hadn''t been long since Pei Jing had cut his ribs with scissors at thest time. He didn''t finish the task of delivering the message properly, which led to the leader looking at the faces of Hong Kong merchants every day. The nned construction that had been nned was also rejected, and he was furious. At this critical juncture, Pei JianGuo asked for leave again, which directly touched the leader''s moldy head.


    After Pei JianGuo recovered from his injuries and returned to work, he found that his position had long been reced by others, and the leader''s attitude towards him was neither cold nor hot. Forget about the previous attention, now he waspletely letting him fend for himself.


    What''s more ridiculous is that Pei JianGuo still doesn''t know what exactly his problem is.


    In his eyes, it was just that he didn''t finish thest message properly, although it was his fault, but it shouldn''t be so cold to him.


    Liu Chunhua spent a good time marrying Pei JianGuo.


    Although Pei JianGuo''s attitude towards her was always very cold, he would not be particrly rude like Gao Dalin, and never cared about other people''s feelings.


    He was handsome, even if he ignored her, it was pleasing to look at him.


    And all Liu Chunhua had to do every day was to serve her wholeheartedly. She was used to doing these things since she was a child from the countryside and was not valued. She didn''t feel tired at all.


    At that time, when she was at her natal family, she worked in the fields during the day, and when she returned home, she still had to take over the housework. In addition, she often got beaten and scolded. Didn''t she still have to suffer it?


    For a while, both of them achieved what they wanted, and their days went by harmoniously.


    But after the calm dayssted for a long time, it was inevitable that people would be dissatisfied.


    Liu Chunhua had suffered prejudice against girls since she was a child. Now that her life was stable, she naturally wanted to have a child.


    But Pei JianGuo was in no hurry. Liu Chunhua was not the woman he liked. Plus he already had a son and family nning was advocated everywhere. His desire for children was naturally not so strong.


    In fact, since Liu Chunhua''s small full moon, he has taken semi-annual contraceptives, which made Liu Chunhua particrly desperate.


    Summer vacation is over and the kids are all sent back.


    A few kids were white and tender when they left, and each of them turned into a lump of coal when they came back.


    But this is not surprising. It''s been like this for years.


    Get tanned during the summer vacation,e back and get white again after recuperating.


    In recent days, Pei Yong has been careful, for fear that PingAn would know that Pei JianGuo had remarried again and would be heartbroken, and that he changed his daughter-inw too quickly, which would also have a bad influence on the children.


    But he didn''t know that PingAn was clever and knew about it long ago even if no one told him.


    "Pei ChenYe, do you hate me? Why do you always hide from me?" Yun Yan couldn''t remember how many times she hade to Pei''s house. She just thought Pei ChenYe was handsome and wanted to make friends with him, but he always hid from her, which made her feel ufortable.


    Pei ChenYe''s expression was already very impatient, but his parents taught him to be polite.


    Although Yun Yan was a little annoying, she didn''t do anything wrong to him. His disgusting thoughts should be wrong.


    "I''m not hiding from you, I''m just busy." Pei ChenYe said, "I still have a lot of homework to do, no time to y with you, you can go find my sister and brother."


    After speaking, he slipped into the room and closed the door with a snap.


    Yun Yan stood at his door, her eyes wide with disbelief.


    Wanqing hurried out from the next room to defuse the situation, "Yun Yan, my brother has no time to y with you. He is busy skipping grades. He has to go to college as soon as possible. Every day except reading and doing homework, even us he does not care about, you''d better not stick your hot face to his cold ass."


    "It''s because I see him locking himself in the room to study all day long that I want him toe out and y so that he doesn''t be a bookworm!" Yun Yan stuck out her tongue cutely, pretending to be cute.


    But her presumptuous tone was somewhat offensive.


    "Don''t worry about my brother anymore, even my mom doesn''t care about him." The subtext was that she was nosy. "By the way, aren''t you in the third year of junior high school this year? How can you run out to y every day without thinking about studying? What if you fail the exam next year and have to repeat another year?"


    "So I want your academic god brother to tutor me, but unfortunately he is not willing to pay attention to me." Yun Yan pouted and ran over to hug Wanqing''s arm, "Wanqing, I heard that the movie theater is showing The Battle of Lake Changjin tonight, let''s go see it together!"


    "I won''t go. My mother won''t let me go out at night." Pei Wanqing said, "Besides, the cinema is quite far from our ce, near the university. Going back and forth is quite time consuming. If you really want to go, you should find an adult to apany you and be careful meeting bad guys at night."


    "Oh, I don''t want to y with adults. It��s no fun with them supervising and managing things. Just go with me, we��re partners, so nothing will happen."


    Yun Yan kept pestering Wanqing, pestering her somewhat impatient.


    "If you really want to go, just go by yourself. I still have homework to do. I don''t want to fail next year''s high school entrance exam and have to repeat a grade."


    Yun Yan ran out crying, making Wanqing feel that her tone was a bit harsh.


    Walking into Pei ChenYe''s room, Wanqing then said, "Brother, do you feel this Yun Yan is a bit weird? She loves acting coquettishly too much and her familiarity is too serious."


    Pei ChenYe was not reading either, but fiddling with his small parts, casually saying: "If you don''t like her, stay away from her. The interaction between friends also depends on affinity. Some people are not bad, they just don''t get along well. There is no need to wrong yourself for the sake of other people''s feelings."


    When ites to making friends, they have their own freedom. Even parents do not require them to be friends with someone''s children just because they get along very well.


    Of course, even if you don''t like it, you will maintain basic politeness. This is Pei ChenYe''s idea.


    "I can''t say I don''t like her, she''s just too clingy."


    Wanqing is at the age of adolescence now. Many ssmates in the ss have already started menstruating, although she hasn''t yet, but she also feels that she is an adult.

 Chapter 377: 377 Is Not Ideal

    <h4>Chapter 377</h4>


    Even her parents felt annoyed when disciplining her, let alone Yun Yan who was just an outsider they barely knew and wasn''t yet mature.


    Like thest time she had made ns to go to grandma''s house, she had also pulled on her arm to stop her from going. There were many other instances like this where she always tried to interfere with her decisions, hoping that she would act ording to her thoughts.


    It was really strange. She had her own freedom, so why did she have to listen to her?


    If it was really an ordinary child, perhaps she would have truly been influenced by Yun Yan.


    But Pei Wanqing had also grown up pampered and doted on, whether it was at home or at grandma''s house. No one didn''t dote on her, especially Zhou Nan. In order to make up for not being by Zhi Xia''s side when she was little, she was even more affectionate to her than her own grandchildren on that side of the family.


    Children who grew up pampered tended to be a little temperamental, with their own thoughts and persistence. Of course it wasn''t so easy for them to be influenced.


    "Anyway, she''s just an unimportant person. Come together if suitable, go separate ways if not. Don''t worry and get annoyed because of others, there''s no need for that." ChenYe looked up at her and asked, "School starts tomorrow, have you finished your homework?"


    "I finished it already. Brother, you''re more annoying than our teachers!" The little bit of annoyance brought by Yun Yan was instantly dispersed by this question.


    She and Pei ChenYe were twins, so inevitably they would bepared by others.


    Although she felt that she wasn''t too bad herself, whenpared to her genius brother known as the study god, she was clearlycking.


    Including her younger brothers below, they had all been suppressed by big brother, as if there was no chance of turning the tables.


    How annoying!


    She didn''t even know why she felt so annoyed.


    So annoyed that now even seeing the big yellow dog made her want to kick it.


    Fortunately she still had reason and didn''t actually do that.


    The situation in Shen City had stabilized, especially after exploring the overseas markets. Zhi Xia had specially designed somedy styles and sold them overseas. Money was flowing in like water every day.


    Hu Zhou called. "Sis An, I feel like I''m not needed here anymore. I don''t really understand the subsequent management, Wu Ge can handle it himself, so I want to go back to Jin Cheng''s side, okay? Can you help me see if there are any houses for sale near you?"


    Actually it didn''t matter which side he was on. It was mainly because of his daughter.


    Yue Ya had started school too. Originally he wanted her to go to school in Shen City, but this girl didn''t want to be with her dad after being with Zhi Xia for so long.


    He could only bring her over to stay for a few days every year during vacation. When school started she had to go back, saying she would miss her brothers and sisters.


    Hu Zhou was very helpless, but he doted on his daughter. Seeing her sad, he could only go along with her wishes.


    The factory was very stable now, so there wasn''t much meaning in him staying. He wanted to go back to Jin Cheng and reunite with his daughter.


    After all, he had dividends from this side. With the money currently in hand, even if he did nothing he had enough to eat for a lifetime. When he went back to Jin Cheng, he could think about starting something.


    Earning money initially was so that his daughter could have a good life. Now that the goal was achieved, there was no reason to separate father and daughter for money.


    "Okay, I''ll keep an eye out for you. When do you n toe back?" Zhi Xia would definitely help with this, but houses were hard to find now, especially in this area.


    "Whenever you can get the house settled on your side, I guess. Me and Yue Ya are different, she can stay at your ce, but when I go back I have to have somewhere to stay." Hu Zhou said.


    Zhi Xia joked with him, "You don''t have anywhere to stay? I rememberst time you came back you were staying at Huasheng the whole time."


    "Hehe, I have to say, that Xiao Xuan Liu really knows how to treat people well. Huasheng''s ck gold card, and Sis An is still a major shareholder, don''t tell me you don''t have one huh."


    Zhi Xia had invested the most in Huasheng, followed by Wu Xiaohua, but it had always been managed by Liu Xuan. He had put in the most effort, so his and Wu Xiaohua''s ownership stakes were the same, both slightly lower than Zhi Xia''s.


    After chatting with Hu Zhou for a few more sentences, Zhi Xia hung up the phone.


    The residents here were all long-time locals. Generally no one would sell their home unless they were in dire straits. In previous years there were some families wanting to sell, but she hadn''t even heard the news before the homes were sold. So buying a house now really wasn''t easy.


    The location downtown that was originally nned for a shopping mall ultimately did not be one due to the government being unable to ovee the Hong Kong businessman, and instead agreed for it to be residential housing.


    With the government''s various support policies, plus many idle people looking for jobs now, the project was progressing quite quickly. Zhi Xia had gone to take a look before; the residential buildings were six to seven stories high, only essible by stairs.


    The first phase had finished construction by the end of the year. However, the recentunch was not ideal and only a few units were sold.


    As for the second phase, the foundations wereid but construction had stopped for several days already. They were probably observing the sales situation of the first phase, which was clearly not ideal.


    In Zhi Xia''s opinion, there was nothing wrong with the government''s ns.


    Building arge shopping mall first would attract a constant stream of people, and the stores in the mall could also be rented or sold, which would definitely be more popr than the residential housing.


    The Hong Kong businessman still didn''t understand the domestic situation and was being too presumptuous.


    Although that area was considered the city center, if it was really a prosperous area, such arge vacant lot wouldn''t have been left empty.


    The real estate era was about toe. Almost all of Jin Cheng would be affected.


    "Little Sixth, I heard your family wants to buy a house?" After running out cryingst time, Yun Yan came back again after less than two days.


    Recently Wanqing realized that the little friends she used to y with were all busy. Every time they would have something going on, so she could only calm her heart and focus on studying.


    Upon hearing Yun Yan ask Little Sixth this question in the yard, she came out and said, "How did you know about it?"


    "Auntie An herself said so, it''s being spread outside already, isn''t it?"


    "Then there''s no difference. My mom did say she wanted to find a house."


    "But your family already has such a big house, it''s not like there''s nowhere to live. Why do you still need to buy a house?" Yun Yan wondered.


    "It''s because one of my uncles ising back to live, so we have to buy a house." Perhaps because she hadn''t been able to find friends to y with recently, Wanqing no longer found Yun Yan''s clinginess annoying.


    This person wasn''tpletely without merits either. At the very least, her grasp on the local situation was stronger than someone like herself who had lived here longer.


    "What does your uncle do? Didn''t he live here before?"


    Yun Yan always seemed to have a lot to say. Wanqing didn''t want to talk about these things. These were issues between adults. She simply called her to go watch TV together.


    After a few days, Zhi Xia finally found a house.


    It wasn''t too far from her ce, just a 10 minute walk.


    After going to see the house, she was quite satisfied overall. Although it wasn''t very big, it was perfectly sufficient for Hu Zhou and Yue Ya''s two people to live in.


    Besides, they wouldn''t be staying here for too long. The real estate era was about to arrive, and almost the entirety of Jin Cheng would be affected.


    "The house is pretty good, uncle. How much are you looking to sell it for?" Zhi Xia asked.


    The uncleughed merrily. He looked very honest, but the number he uttered made Zhi Xia''s heart sink. "ChenYe''s mom, you saw it too. I just renovated this house not long ago. If you sincerely want it, I''ll give it to you for 10,000 yuan. Look at the location, just a few steps out the door and you''re at the main road. The yard is big and spacious, and the ground is paved with green bricks..."

 Chapter 378: 378 Is for Good Company.

    <h4>Chapter 378</h4>


    Zhi Xia quickly calmed down, smiled and said, "Uncle, your house is indeed nice, but the price is still a bit too high for me. I think you should still look for other buyers."


    She sincerely wanted to buy, but he was not sincerely selling.


    Anyone who sincerely wanted to sell, even if the price was higher, they could still negotiate well.


    Quoting such a high price right away, you could buy 3 houses of the same kind, she had money, but she was not a fool either.


    "Auntie Chenye, why don''t you think about it again? It''s not easy to buy a house in the past two years. If you miss mine, it will be hard to find such a good house again." The man had an anxious look on his face and was still persuading, "Only poor people haggle over every ounce. You also run a big factory, don''t you have enough money? It''s just like you losing a strand of hair."


    This was just someone who knew she ran a factory, and didn''t know she had other sources of ie.


    How could he not think that her ability to make money by running a factory was her own skill? Although she was not a cold-hearted person to her neighbors, she probably didn''t like being cheated by others.


    "Uncle, I do run a factory, but I don''t have so much money to throw around either. I sincerely want to buy a house. If you sincerely want to sell, let''s talk about the price properly," Zhi Xia said, and looked critically at the man in front of her, "I suddenly realized this house is not that good after all. After all, it��s a decades-old house that needs a lot of renovating, and many things are already broken. I heard that the first phase of themodity houses built by Jin City has beenpleted. I should go take a look at those apartment buildings. After all, apartment buildings are cleaner and tidier, and they are new houses. I heard the prices are not too expensive either, you can buy four or five with 10,000 yuan."


    After Zhi Xia finished speaking, she left, ignoring his shouting behind her.


    When she returned home, she saw her daughter and her friend standing in the yard, with the bewildered Yue Ya beside them.


    "Wanqing, you can''t do this. You see now no one else wants to y with you, I''m the only one still ying with you. Just listen to me..."


    "It''s their loss that they don''t want to y with me, and I didn''t ask you to y with me either. You alwayse to find me yourself every day. And I''ve told you many times, I can''t make decisions regarding my brother. Haven''t you seen that I get scolded by my brother all day like his grandson?"


    Zhi Xia frowned and walked into the living room.


    "Sister Zhang,e here for a moment."


    "Oh!"


    Sister Zhang responded and came in from outside, "What''s the matter, Zhi Xia?"


    "Sister Zhang, I just wanted to ask, does Wanqing usually y with that Yun Yan girl often?"


    She had been too busy, so she neglected the children at home.


    But she also knew Yun Yan. She was from the new family that just moved here at the beginning of the year. She often saw the girl at her house and thought she got along well with Wanqing.


    Zhi Xia had frightened Sister Zhang at first by asking her to sit down to talk, thinking she had done something wrong.


    When she heard it was about Wanqing, she breathed a sigh of relief, "I was wondering too. Our Wanqing has been popr among kids since she was little. Her little girlfriends kepting to the house to find her to y. But I don''t know if it''s because the kids are older now and are busy with school, I haven''t seen anyonee overtely. Yun Yanes often. I see Wanqing gets along well with her."


    The child she had raised was also a great sense of aplishment for Sister Zhang. "Not only Wanqing has grown, Chenye looks like an adult too. And you too have been overwhelmed with work and making money all the time. You need to pay attention to your health too. Take some time off whenever you can to y well with the kids. They will be grown up before you know it. If you don''t take the time now while you still can, when you want to apany themter, the kids may not have time even if you do. Isn''t that right?"


    Sister Zhang was quite wise from experience, as her two children at home were already grown up now, about to get married and start their own families. Yet she didn''t manage to take time off to apany the kids properly when they were little.


    But her situation was different from Zhi Xia��s.


    With limited means, she could only work hard for a living, while neglecting the children.


    Zhi Xia would probably never have such troubles in her life.


    "You''re absolutely right. I really have neglected the childrentely. I should take the opportunity whenever I can to take them out to y well." Zhi Xiaughed out loud and reflected on herself, "By the way, Sister Zhang, thank you for all your help at home over the years. I heard your daughter graduated from school right? Any ns for her?"


    "I wanted her to find a steady job first. At least it would be more stable. But this girl has a wild heart. She wants to go south with her ssmate to study hairdressing. She said if she learns well she''lle back and open a hair salon. Her ssmate''s cousin went down south a couple of years ago and opened a hair salon there. You see, it took so much effort to raise her and send her to school, I was hoping she could make something of herself. But she actually wants to cut people''s hair. Wouldn''t all these years of schooling be in vain then?" Sister Zhang''s brows were tainted with faint mncholy, "We''ve been unhappy these days because of this. Her dad doesn''t feel assured letting his daughter go far away either. She''s only 19 after all. It took so much effort to raise her this big. You tell me, what if someone deceives her away? Wouldn''t that take my life? And she just argues with us when we try to stop her, not listening at all..."


    "Learning to be a hairdresser is still a way out. If done well, it''s no worse than a normal job. But your concern makes sense too, Sister Zhang. It is indeed worrisome for a girl to go far away alone. And at her age, with no experience, she could be easily deceived by others." Zhi Xia was truly grateful to Sister Zhang, otherwise she wouldn''t have asked about her daughter today, "Sister Zhang, if a child really wants to learn something, it has to be at an honest ce. You know Brother Wu and Hu Zhou have been in Shen City for many years. I heard many hair salons opened there, but such salons are not proper at all. They cut hair as a cover for doing that kind of business. You really need to ask clearly whether the ce her ssmate is going to is reliable or not."


    "There''s this kind of thing too? Oh heavens, the world is really declining in moral values!" Sister Zhang was even more against letting her daughter go now, "No way. I need to go back and advise my girl properly. I was just worried about traffickers with so many cases these days, fearing she would be trafficked when alone out there. If the salon she goes to is that kind of ce, I might as well strangle her now."

 Chapter 379: Is 379 Really Bad

    <h4>Chapter 379</h4>


    "Sister Zhang, don''t get agitated. Communicate well with your child. Also, I just said there were such cases in the south. I didn''t say all hair salons that give haircuts were like that," Zhi Xia said out of good intentions, really worried that Sister Zhang would make a scene when she went back.


    "I know. Don''t worry, I''ll talk to her properly. Zhi Xia, I have to go back first," he actually said. At home now, his daughter was the ancestor. Not to mention her, even his dad was angry, and after being angry for a while, he got used to it.


    His daughter was usually well-behaved. It was just that children this age were a bit willful and hard to reason with. She always thought she was right and that she had grown up and didn''t want her parents to interfere with her decisions anymore.


    Sister Zhang didn''t object to her at least finding a ce closer by to learn. Now she had walked far away, and they didn''t know anyone over there. If something happened, they wouldn''t be able to find anyone even if they tried.


    "You go back. Don''t bothering over tonight. I should also cook for the kids," Zhi Xia said.


    When Sister Zhang returned home, she happened to run into her daughter who was sneaking out the door with her luggage, while her son was pulling her back but failing.


    She was so angry her eyes turned red...


    Yun Yan was probably arguing with Wanqing. When she left, her mouth was pouted as if she could hang an oil bottle on it. Usually the polite girl, this time she didn''t say a word.


    Zhi Xia walked into her daughter''s room and saw the equally angry Wanqing.


    She stroked her head. "My daughter, I just heard you and your little partner say no one wants to y with you. What''s going on?"


    "I don''t know what''s going on either. I was clearly the one who yed best with them before. But starting a few months ago, they just didn''t want to y with me anymore." Wanqing sadly shed tears and cried aggrievedly, "Mom, am I really that bad? But I feel like I''m not that bad. My grades are the best. I''m not ugly either. I''m just a little worse than my brother. But Yun Yan always belittles me, saying I''m very bad. I don''t like her at all. But besides her, no one else wants to y with me. I feel so sad..."


    Zhi Xia hugged Wanqing distressedly in her arms. "Wanqing is not bad at all. Good grades and beautiful looks. You said your old friends suddenly didn''t want to y with you. Did you ask them why?"


    "I didn''t ask them at all. Anyway, they ignore me, so I won''t bother with them either." Wanqing was obviously sulking.


    Zhi Xia stroked her distressedly, "It''s also wrong for you to think like this. Although they ignore you, we still have to find out why, whether it''s their fault, at least we''ll feel at ease. If it''s our fault, at least we can correct it in time. Don''t you think?"


    Friendship also needs to pay attention to affinity. Some people feel like kindred spirits upon first meeting, while others try desperately but still can''te together.


    Zhi Xia didn''t let her simply disregard others either. Even adults need friends, let alone a child.


    Being isted for a long time also greatly affected her physically and mentally.


    Zhi Xia only regretted that she hadn''t spent much time with the children recently, which led to her not even knowing about her daughter''s situation, which had evensted for months.


    Comforted by Zhi Xia, Wanqing finally felt a little better. "Mom, I know. I''ll find out why."


    She decided to find one of her best former ymates tomorrow morning and ask why, even if they didn''t y together anymore afterwards. At least she had to let her know why she had offended them so she knew what was wrong with her in their eyes.


    Sadnesses and goes quickly. As soon as going out to y was mentioned, that little unhappiness was nothing.


    The next day, Sister Zhang went quite early and made breakfast for them.


    During the meal, Sister Zhang said, "I have to take a few days off. Over here..."


    She was also quite embarrassed. She knew Zhi Xia was busy here, but she had an unruly dead girl at home.


    Speaking of which, Sister Zhang choked up, "You don''t know, luckily I went back yesterday on time. If it was a littleter, the dead girl would have run away with her luggage on her back. I just can''t rest assured. I want to keep an eye on her at home for a few days."


    "Then go back quickly. The child is most important. Don''t worry about this side," Zhi Xia was also a mother, so she naturally understood her dilemma, "Sister Zhang, if you need anything, just tell me. Or when you get home, discuss with your daughter to see if she is interested in skin care and makeup. If you can persuade her, let her go to Qiao Yan to study skin care and sales. At least it''s close by and you can rest assured."


    "Zhi Xia, thank you for your trouble. I''ll try to persuade her when I get back." In fact, she had persuaded her a few days ago. As long as her daughter was willing, she would thicken her skin to support her.


    But who knew what that girl was thinking. She was bent on going to study hairdressing because it was fashionable in the south now. She said that when she was skilled, she would make big money when she came back, while working for others for a lifetime would only make little dead wages. She didn''t want to do that.


    She had money-making dreams every day. But God knows whether she has the blessings to seed!


    Sister Zhang now especially hated her daughter''s ssmate, feeling that she had led her daughter astray.


    After going to the factory, Zhi Xia called over Jiang Tao.


    It was basicallyplete empowerment, starting to hand over some of the factory''s affairs to him and only needing to make final decisions herself.


    No matter how important work was, she didn''t want to neglect her children growing up, like what had happened with Wanqing recently. She hoped it would never happen again.


    From now on, she would try to get off work when the children got out of school and spend more time with them.


    In fact, she thought about it. Wanqing and Chenye are both fourteen now. How much time could she have left to be with them?


    Especially Chenye. He set the goal to go to Beijing for his college entrance exam. With his grades, it shouldn''t be a problem to test in, which meant he would leave them alone next year.


    Returning home, Zhi Xia took out the ingredients from her space and started preparing to make a good lunch for the children.


    After school, Wanqing deliberately went to find Xu Ya, who was her best ymate.


    Xu Ya''s mother still weed her very much, smiling and asking why she hadn''te over to y for such a long time.


    After politely greeting, Wanqing walked into Xu Ya''s room. Xu Ya didn''t say anything when she saw her, just kept silent with her head down until her mother casually scolded her for being impolite.

 Chapter 380: 380 Who鈥檚 Too Much

    <h4>Chapter 380</h4>


    After Xu Ya''s mother went out, Wanqing closed the door and turned around to see Xu Ya''s cold gaze in that instant.


    "Xu Ya, we are the same age and used to be the best little girlfriends who yed together. I know you may not want to see me, but I still want toe over and ask you, why? Why did you suddenly start distancing yourself from me with others? Did I offend you? " Wanqing was still trying to salvage this friendship at this moment, so she spoke very sincerely, "If that''s the case, you can tell me it''s my fault and I can change it too, but you suddenly started avoiding me for no reason at all. It''s also very unfair to me, isn''t it?"


    "What''s fair or unfair? It''s just like you were born with a good family background, good looks and smarts. In studying, you obviously didn''t work as hard as us, yet you were always the top student. Do you think this is fair?" Xu Ya retorted, "Pei Wanqing, you didn''t do anything wrong. You''re just too outstandingpared to us ordinary kids. It''s only natural that we don''t get along. Isn''t it?"


    Wanqing had never imagined that the reason she was being excluded was because of this.


    "Xu Ya, if you think like this then you''re wrong. My studies are also achieved through my own hard work. You know that my grandfather and brother give me homework every week and ask about my grades regrly, especially my grandfather who is very strict with us..."


    "That''s why, you see how lucky you are. Your family loves and helps you seed in your studies, but we''re different. At home, no one helps us with studying at all, they don''t care at all, yet they keepparing us with you who has so much help, making us feel that we are inherently inferior to you, overshadowed by your halo all the time." As Xu Ya spoke, she cried aggrievedly, "Pei Wanqing, do you know how annoying you are? I want to be diligent and excellent like the adults say, but I can''t do it."


    "Xu Ya, I can help you..."


    Wanqing tried tofort her and reached for her hand, but she ruthlessly avoided it. "I don''t need your help, Pei Wanqing. I hate it when people keepparing me to you. I admit I''m not as good as you. I just hope you can stay away from me, okay?"


    Xu Ya heard the shout from outside and pushed open the door toe in, "What''s going on? Xu Ya, did you have a quarrel with Wanqing? Wanqing came to y with you on purpose. Be more generous and learn from her. Don''t be petty."


    Xu Ya''s eyes became even colder. The way she looked at Wanqing let her know that their friendship was not worth saving at all.


    "Wanqing, Xu Ya has been in a bad mood these days. Please be more patient with her. Stay for dinnerter. I bought meat today and will make something delicious for you, okay?"


    "No, auntie, my mom made dinner at home. I should go back for dinner too. I won''t bother you anymore. Bye." Wanqing left with a stiff smile on her face.


    On the way, she reflected on whether it was true that everyone thought this way, because Xu Ya spoke as "we", so was this what everyone thought?


    This was the first time she realized that being too outstanding could make people dislike you. She had never felt particrly outstanding herself, as there was a more remarkable older brother above her. Although sometimes it made her feel frustrated, for a period of time she did want to work hard to catch up with her brother. Butter she realized her talent was limited, so she didn''t force herself anymore.


    Wanqing felt she did nothing wrong in this matter. Just like she envied and was jealous of her brother, but never distanced herself from him because of it. Their sibling rtionship had always been great.


    Maybe it was because of the blood ties between him and her brother that outsiders could notpare.


    "Wanqing, what are you doing here?" Yun Yan popped up and saw Wanqinging out of Xu Ya''s house, very surprised.


    "I came to see Xu Ya." Wanqing''s expression was still rtively calm. Probably because she had been treated coldly for a long time, even though she had mustered up the courage, she didn''t have high hopes to begin with, so naturally she wasn''t too disappointed either.


    "Isn''t Xu Ya ignoring you? Did you make up?" Yun Yan probed.


    "Yun Yan, Xu Ya said we are not the same kind of people. What do you think?" Wanqing just wanted to know if it was really what everyone thought.


    "What same or different kind of people? I''ve never considered this. I just want you as a friend." Yun Yan asked, "Wanqing, why did you and Xu Ya suddenly talk about this? Did she say anything else to you?"


    "She said a lot, but it doesn''t matter to me anymore."


    Yun Yan was relieved. It seemed there were still conflicts between them.


    It was good they didn''t reconcile, so she wouldn''t be exposed.


    "Wanqing, forget about Xu Ya and the others not ying with you. You still have me as a friend. Look how nice I am to you. They all ignore you, only I still want to y with you. Let''s be good friends from now on, okay?" Yun Yan seemed to really like saying things like this. It wasn''t the first time she had said it.


    Wanqing was still indifferent. She didn''t even know why herself, but the first time she met Yun Yan, she didn''t like getting close to her.


    Even now when her friends had betrayed her, she still didn''t like her.


    It was just that Yun Yan was too clingy and Wanqing didn''t want to directly tell her to go away.


    "Wanqing, I''m talking to you. This is wrong. Xu Ya and the others refuse to y with you, so you should reflect on your behavior."


    Seeing Wanqing not answering, Yun Yan spewed more words.


    Wanqing was already in a bad mood. Now she was even more irritated by her words. "Yun Yan, I don''t feel I did anything wrong. They don''t want to y with me because they feel I''m too outstanding and it discourages them. I don''t think there''s anything I need to reflect on. Also, I''m not forcing you to be my friend either. If you don''t want to, you can stop ying with me like the rest of them."


    "No wonder they all ignore you. I won''t pay attention to you either. Wanqing, being alone will be very lonely. Do you want everyone to ignore you?"


    "I still have my parents, brother and younger brothers. I have grandma, grandpa, uncle, aunt and cousins. They all love me and care for me. I could never be alone."


    She didn''t care anymore. Even her best friend had broken up with her, so what was one more?


    Moreover, Yun Yan''s words were very irritating, making her feel stifled.


    "You''re too much. Go y with them then. I won''t pay attention to you anymore, humph!" Yun Yan walked away, then turned back, "Wanqing, listen to me from now on and I''ll help you get Xu Ya and the others back, okay?"


    Wanqing rolled her eyes and went home.

 Chapter 381: 381 Little Thoughts of the Children

    <h4>Chapter 381</h4>


    As soon as she got home, the fragrant smell filled the entire courtyard, instantly making her feel much more at ease.


    "Mom, I''m home..." Wanqing threw her schoolbag into the living room and rushed into the kitchen.


    Zhixia was stir-frying dishes. She hugged Zhixia by the waist, who hurriedly said, "Be careful, don''t get burnt."


    "Mom, I love you so much, I want to sleep with you tonight, is that okay?" She just wanted to act like a spoiled child for a bit, hoping her mom would dote on her.


    Little Sixth ran in from outside, happened to hear this, and his eyes instantly lit up. "Me too, me too, I want to sleep with Mom too."


    Wanqing pulled his hands away. "Pei Chenyou, you''re a boy, you''re already grown up and can''t keep clinging to Mom anymore, have some shame..."


    "You''re the shameful one,lla..." Little Sixth looked at Zhixia stubbornly. "Mom, I just want to sleep with you!"


    "No messing around. Mom is going to apany sister tonight. I''ll apany you tomorrow." Zhixia deliberately put on a stern face.


    "Alright then. But you promised, Mom is mine tomorrow." He was usually disciplined very strictly. Dad made the rules, brother supervised. He could finally find an excuse to cling to Zhixia and go all out.


    Little Sixth ran out merrily. Zhixia looked at Wanqing''s state and saw she was still doing alright, so asked her, "Didn''t you go find Xu Ya? What did she say?"


    "Mom, now I understand. It''s not my fault they don''t want to y with me anymore. It''s because I''m too outstanding and made them jealous. I''ve moved on. Friends like this aren''t worth me trying hard to get back. Since they don''t want to y with me, I don''t want to y with them either. From now on I''ll study even harder, then find even better and more open-minded people to be friends with."


    It seemed Wanqing had truly moved on and didn''t need consoling. After she finished talking, she nodded firmly.


    But Zhixia still seriously asked about the cause and details of the incident.


    The children were growing up and had their own worlds. It was impossible for them to still report everything to her like when they were little, even going to the washroom.


    But she was still very d Wanqing had grown up spoiled with love and care. Otherwise if she was a little more fragile when this incident happened, she could have easily been manipted by others.


    "Dinner time..."


    Zhixia called out. Chenye and Wanqing helped bring dishes to the dining room.


    Today''s dishes included things that flew in the sky, walked on the ground, and swam in the waters.


    Boys were always gluttonous at this age. They started anxiously digging in as soon as they sat down.


    But they only started eating after Zhixia sat down.


    At dinner, Zhixia announced the trip she nned for them during winter break. The kids were overjoyed.


    After eating, Zhixia went to her eldest son''s room during nap time.


    "Chenye, can Mom give you a task to do?"


    Chenye sat up straight. "What task?"


    "Starting today, go pick up your sister every day on the way to and from school..."


    Zhixia didn''t hide anything about what happened recently with Wanqing from Chenye, telling him everything clearly.


    Chenye said regretfully, "It''s all my fault. Yun Yan came looking for me first, but I ignored her. I didn''t pay much attention when I saw Wanqing y with her a few times. Mom, I''ll care more about my sister from now on."


    "Can''t me you. Most people around us are simple-hearted. Who would expect Yun Yan to be so calcting?" Zhixia said, "We overlooked things before. Wanqing has been istedtely and must be feeling bad. We can''t force ipatible friends to y together. We can only apany Wanqing more ourselves and not let her feel too terrible."


    After Zhixia left, Chenye also went out. He called the triplets to escort Wanqing to schoolter, then rode his bike to the An family.


    Wenqing was already sixteen, looking even taller than Chenye. Just leaner, but these years he hadn''tcked Uncle An Zhiqing''s training either. He nned to apply for the National Defense University next year too.


    Boys always got along better. Without letting the adults know, Chenye discussed things with Wenqing in whispers. Then the two went out together.


    They went to the same school, so Liu Ling thought they made ns to go to school together. She casually asked, "Still got some time before ss. Why go so early?"


    "I''ve got something to do with Chenye. Don''t mind us." Wenqing looked refined, but these years wasn''t easy to deal with. He felt he was grown up and didn''t want adults supervising him anymore. So he wasn''t happy exining things to his family either.


    Chenye was still quite polite. He said to Liu Ling, "Bye Auntie."


    "Hey, just don''t run around randomly. And don''t go near the river." Liu Ling watched them leave, helpless. "Kids nowadays, harder and harder to manage."


    "They''re growing up with their own ideas. Hopefully they''ll mature slowly." Zhou Nan said this while inevitably thinking of himself in the past. Compared to An Zhiang, Wenqing was much better behaved.


    He still remembered that chaotic time. That damned brat leading groups of people out messing around every day. He got beaten up badly for it many times too. The worst time his whole body was tied to a tree and beaten half to death. But he remained stubborn.


    It was only after growing up and experiencing more things as an adult that he slowly wisened up.


    "Can only think that way now." Liu Ling said.


    After leaving, Chenye and Wenqing were like fish back in water, chatting andughing the whole way, sometimes even cursing.


    The two visited the area, calling up several boys around their age to go stand guard at the middle school entrance.


    Yun Yan appeared here with Xu Ya, even several other girls behind them that used to be good friends with Wanqing.


    Yun Yan chatted the whole way. Xu Ya lowered her head with a cold expression, unclear what she was thinking. She just didn''t look to be in a good mood, while the girls behind them were like they were led by Yun Yan and Xu Ya, only asionally chiming in.


    Chenye blocked their way, looking at Yun Yan. Before he could speak, Yun Yan cried out in surprise, "Pei Chenye, what are you doing here? Did youe looking for me?"


    She looked extremely delighted, smiling like a blossoming flower.


    Chenye nodded. "I''ve got a few words to say to you. Is it convenient to step aside for a bit?"


    "Of course! Where do you want to take me? Let''s go." Yun Yan didn''t think much at all and readily agreed.


    Chenye walked in front. Yun Yan happily followed behind him.


    Xu Ya watched their backs thoughtfully. Someone behind her asked, "Xu Ya, you don''t think Pei Chenye came to make trouble with us for not ying with Wanqing anymore, right?"


    "Shouldn''t be." In her heart Xu Ya still couldn''t let Wanqing go. To be honest, Wanqing had been very good to them before. They often yed together. She had even stayed overnight at Wanqing''s house several times. Her family was all very kind.


    But Wanqing also made her feel a lot of pressure.


    Just like Yun Yan said, when she was with Wanqing, no one else noticed her at all, even though she wasn''t that bad herself.


    "Let''s go. ss is starting soon." Xu Ya also didn''t like Yun Yan. She talked too much. After squeezing Wanqing out of their circle, she quickly took over Wanqing''s position with her mouth. The other girls even preferred listening to her more.

 Chapter 382: 382 Too Clever

    <h4>Chapter 382</h4>


    Chenye brought Yun Yan to a small alley next to the campus, where Wen Qing and the others were already waiting.


    At first, Yun Yan waspletely unaware. It was not until she saw so many people that she became a little nervous.


    "Pei Chenye, who are they?" Yun Yan guardedly refused toe forward and turned to leave. "I...have to go back to ss soon."


    Before she could finish speaking, the boy behind Wen Qing quickly stepped forward to block her way. "Don''t rush to leave, little sister. I heard you''ve been pestering Brother Pei quite a bit. You seem to have good taste, don''t you? Now that you have the chance, why don''t you seize it?"


    "You look decent enough, but I don''t see what''s so calcting about such a young girl," another boyzily draped his arm over the other''s shoulder, deliberately exhaling a puff of smoke in Yun Yan''s face. "Little girl, tell me, what are you trying to do? Isting your sister while secretly clinging to her brother behind her back."


    "That''s not called istion. I told you to study properly and you refused. That''s why you have no culture," one of them said. "Or as Brother Pei nicely put it, it''s spiritual control."


    "So the next step is to make Sister Wanqing listen to you, then you can use her to achieve your own goals?" The boy exaggeratedly opened his mouth. "That''s too creepy, even I''m scared listening to this as a guy!"


    ...


    One after another, you exposed all of Yun Yan''s little schemes.


    She didn''t dare move or speak, helplessly looking at Pei Chenye, who was not far away. "I didn''t iste Wanqing. I didn''t intend to do anything either. Really. Wanqing and I are good friends, Pei Chenye, you know that. Wanqing probably doesn''t know that you bullied me, right? She will be angry if she finds out."


    "Oh my, Wanqing probably doesn''t know that you bullied me, she will be angry..." The boy imitated her tone of voice and continued. Suddenly his face changed and he pushed her shoulders hard, shoving her directly to the wall. "Listen to how cleverly she puts it. I bet you''ve used this trick many times to take advantage of others."


    It was only then that Chenye walked over and stopped the boy who was about to hit her. His gaze was cold. "There''s no point in saying too much. Yun Yan, you need to understand one thing. My sister is not someone you can control, nor is she one of those fools you''ve turned against each other. If you dare to bully my little princess, the Pei family''s precious daughter, I can make it so your whole family can no longer survive here. Everyone has to pay the price for their actions. My parents taught me since I was little not to cause trouble outside, but that doesn''t mean my family can be bullied. When Pei Chenye says something, I will deliver. If you don''t believe me, feel free to give it a try!"


    "I didn''t do anything. You''re framing me, bullying me! Pei Chenye, so many boys ganging up to bully one girl, aren''t you afraid of being mocked by others?" Yun Yan cried out angrily.


    Chenye sneered. The boy behind him spoke again, "Little girl, can''t even handle such a small scene? You probably don''t even know what real bullying means."


    Chenye''s smile disappeared and his whole demeanor turned cold. He grabbed Yun Yan by the cor and easily lifted her whole body up. Under her terrified gaze, he clenched his hand into a fist, the bones cracking.


    "Don''t...don''t hit me. I won''t do it again...I''m sorry, please..." Yun Yan sobbed, her legs gone soft as her whole body trembled uncontrobly from fear.


    Chenye let her go and she plopped down on the ground.


    "I won''t touch you today, but from now on, stay away from my sister and don''t go to my house again. Otherwise, next time, my fist will smash into you."


    After Chenye and Wen Qing left, one of the boys who hade with them squatted in front of Yun Yan. "Little girl, quite calcting but not very smart. Do you know what kind of family my Brother Peies from? They just keep a low profile, not fools. It''s a pity for those who mistake them for fools. Seeing as you look decent, let brother give you a piece of advice: start packing your bags."


    Even with some schemes in mind, Yun Yan was only 14 years old after all. Moreover, she did not openly and tantly bully others. Usually, even if things reached the adults, most would choose to endure and swallow their anger, only urging their own children to stay away from her.


    But this time, she had kicked an iron te.


    Pei Chenye never felt Wanqing should be overly protected. There are all kinds of things in life. Children whock worldly wisdom are indeed simpler and happier, but they are also just as easily crushed by the slightest winds and rains, setbacks breaking them down.


    That��s what he thought, but when someone actually bullied his sister, he could not just sit idly by either.


    Although Pei Chenye was still young, his savings exceeded that of many middle-ie families, thanks to his money-earning mother, his father who could still provide them shelter, as well as his grandmother��s side of the family who were very generous to them. In time, their savings had naturally umted.


    He did not usually like spending money or showing off his wealth, but since he had called on people today for help, he had to give them the proper status.


    As soon as they entered the luxury private room of the Glorious Hotel, they received the Young Master treatment.


    Wen Qing was still a little worried. He quietly pulled Chenye aside and whispered, ��Chenye, won��t your aunt scold you for being so extravagant?��


    ��Don��t worry, I��ll just say I brought you here to eat. My mom won��t be so petty as to get angry over you having a meal,�� Chenye said.


    ��You brat!�� Wen Qing was exasperated yet amused by him. He went forward and put his arm around Chenye��s shoulder. ��Brother will make use of you, but in the future when Ie here to eat, I��ll have to use your name. After all, it would be too much of a waste not to take full advantage of the Young Master status.��


    ��You might as well use my mother��s name instead. It��ll be even more useful. I��m sure she wouldn��t mind giving her nephew some special privileges either,�� Chenye joked.


    Wen Qing hurriedly shook his head. ��Let��s forget about that. I don��t want to get lectured by my mother when I get home.��


    ��That reminds me, one of your ssmates has a father who works in the textile factory, right?�� Chenye suddenly said upon remembering.


    As soon as Wen Qing heard that, he understood his intention. ��Doesn��t your uncle work there too? Why not make use of his connections instead?��


    ��Better not. My parents don��t even know about this. Help me get in touch with that ssmate of yours. Let��s handle it quietly,�� because Pei Jing had told him more than once that he could not abuse his family��s position to bully others.


    Even though Yun Yan provoked first, punishing the parents for the child��s deeds would be going too far. Wanting to secretly get her father fired from the textile factory was somewhat hical.


    However, after everything Yun Yan had done, he definitely could not let this girl remain here.


    He would be going to the capital next year, but Wanqing would still be here. There is no defending against a thief with inexhaustible patience. Even if he believed Wanqing would not fall for her tricks, he was still unwilling to leave a ticking time bomb beside his sister.

 Chapter 383: 383 Small Things Solve small Things, big Things Solve big Things

    <h4>Chapter 383</h4>


    Until the end of school, Yun Yan was still in a daze, and did not even have the heart to maintain the circle she had just integrated into.


    Xu Ya looked at Yun Yan''s panicked back in puzzlement, and always felt that she had not been quite normal ever since she came to school today, which was really too different from usual.


    Could it be true that she was guessed right, and Pei ChenYe came to find Yun Yan because of Wanqing being isted?


    Then would it be their turn tomorrow?


    Xu Ya was a little scared in her heart, and suddenly thought, should she find an excuse to ask for leave tomorrow?


    But what about the day after tomorrow?


    You can avoid trouble at the beginning, but not at the end.


    Not only did Pei ChenYe have a loud reputation among the parents, but he was also a unique existence among all the primary and secondary schools in Jincheng. Otherwise, he would not have the title of "Study God".


    Moreover, not only that, I heard that he also has a very outstanding cousin, and his grandfather is also a university president.


    He was not as soft as Wanqing at first nce. If he really resented her, I was afraid she would not be able to get along in school.


    Xu Ya was not a fool, nor was she as easily deceived as others. She had seen through Yun Yan''s tricks from the beginning.


    But it could not be denied that she was indeed jealous of Wanqing, so she deliberately calcted to sessfully iste Wanqing.


    Even if it was pursued afterwards, all responsibilities could be pushed onto Yun Yan. She was just bewitched by her.


    But at the same time, she was more often hesitant and uneasy. It was just that from the moment she decided to iste Wanqing, she no longer had room to look back.


    As Wanqing''s best friend before, she also knew her temper. Now even if she wanted to look back, Wanqing would no longer want her as a friend.


    Zhi Xia was also busy this afternoon. First, she asked Jiang Tao to check Yun Yan''s family, and then made an appointment with the parents of several girls like Xu Ya.


    Although losing these few friends did not have too much impact on Wanqing, as an adult, she could not just let this matter of her daughter being bullied go.


    It was not good for her as an adult to talk to a few children, which would be too bullying. But the cause and course of the matter still had to be known by the parents of these girls.


    Yun Yan wanted to control Wanqing by attacking and isting her. Fortunately, Wanqing did not fall into the trap, but she firmly believed that Yun Yan''s method would not only be used on Wanqing alone. All the girls could be the next target she attacked.


    It was very easy to investigate Yun Yan''s parents at the textile factory. Within two hours, Jiang Tao had already got back to her.


    Zhi Xia immediately made a decision after listening, asking Jiang Tao to contact the leaders of the textile factory.


    Yun Yan''s parents were just workers, not even leaders. With Zhi Xia''s current fame and strength, even just one phone call, she believed the leaders of the textile factory would not mind selling her a favor.


    After all, even the leaders of the government gave her a lot of face.


    ChenYe usually went to and from school very regrly, but today he returned home unusuallyte.


    When he entered the door, he found that the lights in the living room were still on.


    "Mom, are you waiting for me?" ChenYe asked as he walked in.


    Zhi Xia nodded and asked him, "Did you take your ssmates to Huasheng Hotel for dinner today?"


    ChenYe had never intended to hide this matter from Zhi Xia''s eyes. Otherwise, he would not have chosen Huasheng. He exined, "Yes, I invited some ssmates to help out today, and Wen Qing as well. I felt a little embarrassed, so I treated them to a meal, but we didn''t drink."


    Zhi Xia was amused by his tactfulness andughed, "Before you are an adult, even if you want to drink, you can''t go to Huasheng. No one would dare serve you alcohol there. When you grow up you can drink a little, but you still need to control the amount well. Whether you are a boy or a girl, you need to protect yourself and keep some sobriety and awareness for yourself."


    She did not oppose children drinking, as adults, it was necessary on some asions.


    But you still had to be rational and not drink yourself unconscious, not even knowing what was happening.


    "I know that."


    After ChenYe finished speaking, Zhi Xia let him go wash up and sleep.


    The child had grown up and had his own social circle. She could not ask every detail clearly like when he was little.


    Besides, ChenYe was usually very disciplined. Today was just a rare indulgence.


    Combining Wanqing''s time, it was not difficult to guess what friends he had asked for help.


    A child''s approach was always the most direct and effective. On the contrary, the more they aged, the more apprehensive they became.


    Since ChenYe had resolved the smaller wave, she would resolve the adults.


    Bullying children was inappropriate. Finding their parents was the most appropriate.


    Also at Huasheng Hotel, in a luxurious private room.


    When Zhi Xia arrived, the people in the private room were already present. There were a total of three pairs of parents, only one pair with just the mother present.


    When she pushed open the door of the private room, she could still hear their whispers. But as soon as she opened the door, the voices stopped abruptly, and everyone fell silent one by one.


    Zhi Xia walked in, and a service staff followed along.


    Xu Ya''s mother reacted first. She stood up to greet, "ChenYe''s mom, you are too polite. Any small ce would be fine. This Huasheng Hotel is expensive..."


    She had heard before that a meal here was equivalent to an ordinary family''s expenses for several months.


    And with so many people, even if they ate casually, it would still be a lot.


    Zhi Xia replied very casually, "It doesn''t matter, it''s our own hotel, no charge."


    Everyone looked at each other in dismay. They only knew that Pei''s young daughter-inw ran an electronics factory well, and had recently opened a branch factory. But they did not know that even Huasheng, which had been open for several years, was hers too.


    But wasn''t the boss of Huasheng Hotel rumored to be a man outside!


    However, seeing her ordering food and her casual attitude, no one dared to question her words.


    Zhi Xia ordered a lot of dishes, thoroughly demonstrating her wealthy and imposing manner.


    After the service staff left, she got straight to the point, "I believe everyone must be very curious about why I invited you for a meal. So let me get straight to it..."


    These parents present were all leaders among those who had isted Wanqing.


    The saying goes thew does not me the public. She could not hold each person ountable, but these leading ones certainly had to bear most of the responsibility.


    Without any concealment or exaggeration of the facts, after Zhi Xia stated the cause and course of the incident, the parents looked at each other, and they were all rendered speechless.


    Their children at home often went to find Wanqing before, and they could also see the changes during this period of time. But they did not expect the facts to be so serious and malicious.


    At the same time, they could never have imagined that Yun Yan, who had just moved to the neighborhood not long ago and looked quite young, would actually have such schemes and be able to convince all the children nearby to bully the precious daughter of the Pei family.


    Xu Ya''s mother awkwardly spoke up, "Actually, I haven''t seen Wanqing together with Xu Ya for a long time either. But when I asked my daughter, she said Wanqing was busy studying, so I didn''t take this matter to heart. ChenYe''s mom, don''t get angry first for this matter. Let me go back and ask Xu Ya what exactly happened. If things are really like this, I will definitely personally lead my child to Wanqing''s home to apologize."

 Chapter 384: 384 people must pay for their actions.

    <h4>Chapter 384</h4>


    The adults always understand the ways of the world better than the children. In the adult world, things are either genuine orparing power and status.


    No matter whether it was Xu Ya''s mother or the other parents, their families were just ordinary. No one would be unwilling to give Wanqing face.


    Wanqing rejected their idea of going to apologize in person. It was exactly because it was a conflict between children that they should not forgive the betrayers easily.


    They wanted to iste Wanqing to achieve some selfish goals. Fortunately, she was not as vulnerable as they imagined. She was rational and wise. She would not be easily manipted by others, let aloneck good friends.


    The reason for asking them toe over today was only toy things out and make them understand what their children had done. Whether they were identally used by others or originally had some ideas in their hearts, after today, those would not matter anymore.


    Aftermunicating with them, Zhi Xia left alone without any intention of staying for a meal.


    But the private room had been booked and dishes had been served one after another, extremely abundant. This made Xu Ya''s mother and other parents even more aware of the gap between them.


    This meal alone was enough to cover their sry for a few months. So, neither they nor their children had the ability to defy others.


    The dishes on the table were those they usually only dared to think about the prices in their hearts. But now being ced in front of them, they felt hard to swallow.


    After sitting for a while, they left one by one. But only they themselves knew clearly about the thoughts in their hearts.


    It waste at night, but it was not peaceful in Yun Yan''s home.


    Several children''s parents came to the door and told Sister Zhang one by one about Yun Yan''s provocations.


    The girl''s shrill cry spread out in the alley. Zhi Xia had been waiting at home since she came back from Huasheng, wanting to see how those parents would choose.


    But obviously, the result did not disappoint her.


    The next day was Sunday so there was no school. Xu Ya��s parents still took her to the door and met several other parents bringing their children.


    They looked at each other and understood the distress in each other''s hearts.


    "Zhi Xia, Wanqing��s several friends and their parents are here." Sister Zhang had apanied her daughter for two days. She had just came today and knew about Wanqing��s thing. She was so distressed that she almost cried.


    Although Wanqing was not her birth daughter, in her heart there was no difference between Wanqing and her own children because she had raised Wanqing herself.


    Whoever raises a child will feel distressed. This was how she felt.


    So when she saw these children and their parents, she no longer looked at them kindly like before. She didn''t even want to show them a good face.


    But Zhi Xia was very calm. She took Wanqing to the living room and said, "Sister Zhang, please let them in."


    Sister Zhang responded and went out to call them in.


    In the living room, Zhi Xia looked as usual, including Wanqing, who did not show any particr emotion. They stood beside Chenye like a golden boy and a jade girl.


    "Chenye��s mother, today we specifically brought our children to apologize to Wanqing and say sorry to you too. As parents, we were negligent and did not pay attention to the children��s situation. And that Yun Yan was unexpected. She is just over ten years old but had such schemes, thinking about the harmony between the residents before her family moved here. The children grew up ying together since they were young. There were no major conflicts. It was her provocations that caused this. Although Wanqing has been hurt, I still want to ask you to forgive them with a thick skin. Please give them another chance," she looked at Wanqing again. ��Wanqing, you and Xu Ya were best friends. Xu Ya was also provoked to alienate you. Auntie asks you to give her another chance and forgive her, okay? Xu Ya also said at home that she regretted alienating you after listening to Yun Yan. So she has not been happy these days and felt very ufortable in her heart."


    "Yes, Chenye��s mother, it was all because of that Yun Yan. The children are still young, just over ten years old. It is the age of ignorance. They were provoked to be like this. Please, you and Wanqing be generous and give them another chance."


    A parent with a bad temper kicked the girl''s butt. "What are you still dumbfounded for? Hurry up and apologize to Wanqing! When you do something wrong, you have to dare to take responsibility. Wanqing is also a generous girl. As long as you sincerely apologize, she will forgive you too. In the future, you will still be good friends.��


    "I''m sorry..."


    A series of sobbing voices rang out. Whether these apologies were sincere or coerced, they were not that important to Wanqing.


    She was not as generous as that uncle said. In fact, she could be quite petty. At first when they alienated her, she thought she had done something wrong. But after knowing the reason from Xu Ya, she was relieved instead.


    No matter whether they regretted itter or not, she did not regret it. Even if there was sincere repentance among them, they had lost the qualification to be friends with her again.


    "I forgive you guys," Wanqing said. "I forgive you and am willing to believe that you were provoked. But since there is already estrangement between us, it means we are not suitable to be friends. From now on... let''s just leave it at that."


    Xu Ya��s mother wanted to say something more but was interrupted by Zhi Xia. "Our Wanqing is indeed generous, but not a fool. A friendship that can be so easily provoked also indicates that it is not pure and solid. Whether it exists or not does not have much significance. Don''t you think?"


    This rhetorical question made the parents feel embarrassed.


    If it was someone else or another family, even if the child was ostracized and hurt, they would still think that it was just their own child who was unwilling to y with her. It was her who was too vulnerable. Of course their own child could not be med.


    But the person in front of them was An Zhi Xia, who had money and a high-ranking military officer as a husband. Her father was a university president. These children would face the middle school entrance exam in half a year. The best high school nearby was the one run by An Jingzhi.


    Not to mention whether they would take revenge on them, as parents, they had to worry about their children. At the same time, they were afraid that Zhi Xia would take advantage of the money and power in her hands to punish them.


    They were just ordinary workers. Maybe just one word from her, their livelihoods would be lost.


    Although Zhi Xia did not make things too difficult for them, she had obviously let them know the gap between the two familiesst night and now.


    Just after leaving, Xu Ya��s mother couldn��t help it anymore. She grabbed Xu Ya''s ear and scolded, "You damn girl! Was mother beating you too lightly before? Look what have you done! The middle school entrance exam is in half a year. Your grades are only average. I originally thought that if you didn''t test well, I would simply ask Chenye��s mother to help and arrange a job for you in her factory. But now, forget about the job. You have thoroughly offended them to death. In the future, if our family needs to ask them for help for anything, it would be even more difficult than climbing to heaven!"


    Xu Ya wanted to dodge with a distorted face but was kicked down by her father again and cried out.


    Xu Ya��s father just looked at her with frustration and resentment without even bothering her mother. Heined, "Look at the good daughter you gave birth to," and then left directly.


    The previous two days he was still bragging to his colleagues at the factory, saying that he knew the factory director of Hongfeng Appliance Factory, and his daughter was good friends with the director''s daughter.


    At that time, the envious eyes of others made him proud whenever he recalled it.


    But after this turn of events, hepletely lost face.


    Now, instead of establishing ties with them, they could only beg them not to retaliate, which was already counting their blessings.


    Simr scenes also happened to others.


    Only one girl''s parents remained rtively calm, but they were also panicked at heart. It was just that their love for their child was sufficient enough that they didn��t bear to me the child for everything that happened.


    Since such a thing had happened, the child must already be nervous enough. If they as parents spoke out to criticize and beat the child again, wouldn��t the child be even more pitiful?


    In the living room, Chenye asked Zhi Xia, "Mom, are we really forgiving them?"


    In his opinion, although Yun Yan was the culprit, these people were at least aplices.


    "It is said that thew does not me the public. Yun Yan must not be allowed to stay here and cause trouble for the concubines," they said. "If we drive them away too, others will only say that we are abusing our power and bullying them. Then even if we are in the right, we would appear to be in the wrong."


    Children do not think too much, but adults have no choice but to consider these things.


    When living in this world, it is impossible not to interact with others. So one must be especially careful of one''s reputation.


    They still have to live around here for some time. People naturally sympathize with the weak. Going overboard would instead leave an impression of arrogance and oppression.


    Chenye was a little unwilling, but did not say anything more.


    Some things, you just have to do them. There is no need to talk about everything.


    No matter their status, people must pay the price for the things they have done. He remembered these few people. Even if he does notpletely eliminate them, they should not expect to have better days.


    Chenye preferred to nip the danger in the bud - to clip the wings of his enemies before they have a chance to grow.


    Maybe because the children had been very well behaved and obedient since young, especially Chenye who was very self-disciplined and easy to manage, Yuezhi was most rxed in her restrictions on him.


    ...


    "Boss, Yun Yan''s parents both work in the textile factory. They were transferred here only about half a year ago. Their hometown is not around here..." This was the information that Jiang Tao had investigated. "Last night I took the leader of the textile factory out for a meal. During our conversation, I found out that Yun Yan''s parents had somehow offended another leader. Instructions have been given from above that they are to be squeezed out of the textile factory."


    "Offended someone? What a coincidence?" Yuezhi thought. It seemed that no one in this family was honest. Otherwise they would not have attracted so much attention in such a short period of time. "They are really asking for death. We don''t need to make a move for now. Pay attention to developments over there. Add fuel to the fire if necessary. I not only want Yun Yan''s family to leave the textile factory, it would be best if they have to leave Jincheng, with no possibility of making aeback."


    "Understood." Jiang Tao now held great power. He was clearly much more steady than before.


    "Also, regarding the new products from the R&D department, I will be going away for some timeter. Help me keep an eye on things in the factory, Jiang Tao. Work hard. I will reward you well." Yuezhi now wanted to devote more time to the children and family. Although she also wished to achieve something in her career, the few children at home were irreceable no matter what.


    A career could be built anytime, but it would be toote to apany the children when they have grown up.


    "Yuezhi..." Pei Yong called out to her as soon as he entered the courtyard.


    Yuezhi quickly came out from the room. "Big brother, you were looking for me?"


    Pei Yong nodded. "Let''s go inside to talk."


    After going in, Yuezhi poured him a cup of tea before sitting down.


    "It''s like this - I know you''ve been looking for a house. Any updates?" Pei Yong asked.


    Yuezhi replied: "I saw a rather nice house recently, but I didn''t manage to close the deal because the owner was asking for too high a price. I''m still looking now."


    "That''s exactly what I came here to talk about." Pei Yong sighed. "That old fellow came to me, hoping that I could help persuade you to buy his house. He said the pricing is negotiable."


    It was not just difficult to buy houses, selling was tough too.


    Not to mention such transactions were private deals. No one dared to buy and sell openly. How could they possibly find a willing buyer so easily?


    That house owner had originally wanted to earn a quick buck from her. Even if that failed, the pricing was still negotiable afterwards.


    But unexpectedly, after Yuezhi left that day, she never brought up this matter again. He had gone to her ce a few times but was rejected each time.


    Desperately needing money but unable to find other buyers, he finally went to Pei Yong, hoping to get him to help persuade her, appealing to his sympathy since he seemed rather pitiful.


    Yuezhiughed. "Big brother, I''m indeed anxious to buy a house, but I''m not a fool to be taken advantage of. His house is about the same as yours. You bought yours for just over 2,000 a few years ago. Even with some price increase over the years, it would at most be worth a little over 3,000. Yet he quoted 10,000 right from the start. I can''t afford that."


    "What? He actually asked for such an high price?" Pei Yong was about to blow his top. "This old scoundrel actually tried to fool even me! He made himself out to be so pitiful, saying he just quoted a price slightly on the higher side. I thought I could help negotiate an agreeable price based on market rates - he sells his house, you buy a house, a mutually beneficial transaction for everyone. Turns out he thinks we are idiots!"


    Fortunately, he and Yuezhi understood each other''s character well. Otherwise if they did not get to the bottom of this today, Yuezhi might think he was conspiring with the other party to cheat her, while he would have thought Yuezhi to be unwilling to give him any face.

 Chapter 385: 385 Right and Wrong

    <h4>Chapter 385</h4>


    Pei Yong was a down-to-earth person who had lived through the cruel wartime years. Everyone around him was hot-blooded, and he never thought badly of people.


    After leaving Zhi Xia, the more he thought about it, the more annoyed he felt.


    It could only be said that the man had used the wrong method.


    If he had sincerely wanted to sell the house, he could havee to Pei Yong, exined the situation honestly, re-priced it reasonably, and things would not have turned out like this.


    Now, even if he sincerely wanted to sell, Zhi Xia no longer wanted to buy from him.


    It was several dayster when Zhi Xia learned from Pei Yong that the man had sold the house after all, but for the cheap price of just 2,500.


    He really had no choice. Something had apparently happened in his family, he urgently needed money, and he originally saw that Zhi Xia had money and was a woman, so he wanted to take advantage of her. But unexpectedly, his clever n backfired, and when he sold it to someone else, the price was suppressed.


    In the end, the house came back to Zhi Xia.


    It had to be said that the person who bought the house had good intentions. He was also a nearby resident who knew that Zhi Xia had been asking around about houses. He desperately suppressed the price to take that house, then came to the door and offered to sell it to Zhi Xia for 300 more than he had paid. This way, he made some profit, Zhi Xia did not lose out, and as for the original home seller, who knew if he would be angered to death or not.


    In the family chat space, Pei Jing also learned from Zhi Xia about what had happened at home recently.


    He suddenly felt very useless.


    Although he was praised by everyone in the army as the Soldier King, at home, he had been severelycking in recent years. He really owed it to his wife and children.


    "By the way, I promised the kids I''d take them out to y during the winter vacation and go to Beijing to see the sights of the capital. Do you have time off?" Zhi Xia asked him.


    Pei Jing smiled and pulled her to sit on the sofa. "Of course I do. Since I promised the kids, if I don''t have time, I have to make time, don''t I?"


    "That''s good. I didn''t know your schedule so I didn''t dare tell them if you''d be going or not. Now that it''s settled, there are only a few days until winter break, so make arrangements on your end as soon as you can." Zhi Xia leaned against him and said, "It''s been more than a year of constant busyness, and I''ve neglected the kids too. I''ll take this opportunity to make it up to them. Chenye also said he wants to go to the National University of Defense Technology. With his grades and physique, there definitely won''t be a problem as long as nothing unexpected happens. I should be happy, but as I watch the kids grow up little by little, needing us less and less, I can''t help feeling a little sad. I don''t know how much longer I can be with them."


    "If you can''t bear to part with them, we can move to Beijing too. But kids have to leave home when they grow up to make their own way in the world. We should be happy for them. Children who are always sheltered under their parents'' wings will never withstand the ravages of wind and rain, and we can''t shelter them for life either." In fact, Pei Jing saw nothing wrong with Chenye leaving home alone. There was no banquet in the world that didn''t break up eventually, not even between parents and children who could stay together forever.


    He was orphaned at a young age and depended on his mother to live. After her death he was taken in and raised by the old master of the An family. Although the An family treated him very well, after all he was not of the An family''s lineage, so psychologically the feeling was different.


    After Pei Lao returned, he went back to live with his father, but by then he was already grown up. He respected his father and brothers, but was alwayscking in intimacy.


    So although everyone knew he was precocious, no one knew that he didn''t dare or couldn''t let himself go wild.


    Therefore, after having children, even though his career kept him exceptionally busy, he still tried to spend as much time as possible with the kids and his wife. He had been busy for two years after transferring back and really couldn''t make time, but now that everything was stable, he wanted to focus more on family.


    Zhi Xia said, "Let''s forget about moving to Beijing. Right now it''s only Chenye who has to leave. In a few more years, who knows where they''ll all run off to. We can''t keep moving around after them."


    The two sat together chatting idly about family affairs, mostly Zhi Xia talking about things at home while Pei Jing listened patiently, asionally asking about the children''s daily life.


    When he learned of Wanqing''s recent ordeal, as her father it was something he took to heart.


    ...


    After Hu Zhou came back, Yue Ya reluctantly moved with him to the new home.


    But whenever she had a chance, she would run back here. She still felt like this was her real home.


    Yun Yan''s mother brought her to stop Zhi Xia at the front gate. She knelt down with a thud, "Wanqing''s mother, I know your family has power and influence beyond what ordinary people like us can associate with. We got ahead of ourselves even dreaming that our children could be friends. Kids don''t know any better, but even if they offended your child, you shouldn''t escte the conflict to the adults. Our family relies on the two of us to support our elders and children. With one word from you, you''ve taken away both our jobs. How is our family supposed to live?"


    It was just human nature for Chinese people to enjoy lively scenes. Originally there were hardly any pedestrians on the road, but with her shouting, passersby stopped in their tracks one after another, and neighbors who were home also came out to watch themotion.


    "Yun Yan''s mother, you know better than anyone else whether something is right or wrong. What your daughter did was not ''not knowing better''. On the contrary, she knew better than anyone, taking advantage of children''s jealousy to sow discord, ganging up with other children for istion, then pretending to be innocent as she got close to my child, telling her that she''d only be willing to be friends if she did everything Yun Yan said, and gradually achieving her own goals step by step. Yun Yan''s mother, do you call that kind of child ''not knowing better''?"


    Zhi Xia frowned sternly.


    No wonder Yun Yan was so maniptive at such a young age.


    Just looking at her mother, running over to kneel down as soon as she arrived, immediately putting her in an arrogant, coercive position.


    What good children could be raised by adults like this?


    It would have been better if she hade today realizing her own mistakes to apologize. At least it would have given Zhi Xia a better impression of her.


    "Also, do you need me to exin to everyone why your family gave up your original jobs and lives in the city you were living in, and instead coordinated job transfers so you could move your whole household here?"


    Zhi Xia''s questioning didn''t intend to ask for her opinion at all. She went on directly, "It''s because back in your original city, using the same methods, your daughter controlled a girl from a well-off family, making her secretly give all her allowance and clothes to your daughter, and even urged her to steal money from her parents for her. Otherwise she would team up with other children to iste her. In the end it went too far and the girl''s parents found out, so you also couldn''t keep mixing in that city and had no choice but to move here."

 Chapter 386: 386: The Egg Strikes the Stone

    <h4>Chapter 386</h4>


    "Am I right, Yun Yan''s Mom?" Zhi Xia said coldly.


    Yun Yan''s Mom had always known that Zhi Xia''s family was not an ordinary family. Having lived here for half a year, she had heard some things about the An Family and Pei Family.


    But she still did not expect that even after moving to a different city, someone could still dig up the details of her past.


    Zhi Xia spoke quickly and clearly. After she finished, facing the pointing and murmuring of the crowd, Yun Yan''s Mom was stunned.


    Yun Yan reacted quickly, also kneeling next to her mother, sobbing, "I didn''t, Auntie, don''t wrongly use me. It''s just that others feel Wanqing is too arrogant, and she always has to stand out, so they don''t want to y with her. I just saw she was too lonely so I wanted to mediate, I didn''t expect you to misunderstand me like this..."


    She didn''t mention anything from the past, but shifted the me onto Wanqing.


    She was trying to use the same methods she had used against others on Wanqing. And since Wanqing''s family was wealthy, she believed that even if adults found out, they wouldn''t make a big deal.


    What she didn''t expect was that Wanqing simply didn''t fall for her tricks. The more Yun Yan talked, the more annoyed Wanqing became.


    The two had shed many times, always with Yun Yan trying to coax Wanqing, while Wanqing ignored her, making Yun Yan even angrier.


    Yun Yan clearly had so many nicer things, visibly better clothing, food, and belongings than others. They were good friends, and good friends should share, right? Why couldn''t she share some with her?


    "Since you say that, then call the police. It''s useless to reason with people like you, so let the police take care of it and see whether you really did those things in the past or not," Zhi Xia said. "Or I can reimburse travel fees and have the parents of the girl you used to bullye and tell everyone how you manipted her step-by-step into giving you her things and doing what you said. What do you think?"


    "Wanqing''s Mom, you''re going too far. I know our family is no match for yours, but cornered prey will bite back. You have to leave us a way out," otherwise if they were truly desperate, those with nothing to lose would dare anything.


    Otherwise, why did that other wealthy family let them offst time?


    Even if it escted to the police station, it would only be a conflict between children. That other girl willingly gave her things to her daughter, not like her daughter forced them from her.


    And when they left, those things and money weren''t returned either, because children don''t understand the value of money and things. The items were either lost or broken, and the money was spent together, so who knew how much was spent or remained!


    There are no clearws about this kind of thing yet, so guilt depends on who can argue more persuasively.


    Some people simply can''t be reasoned with, because no matter what you say, they twist the conversation to benefit themselves. Bystanders just watch the show, and whoever wins the shouting match seems right, regardless of what''s true.


    Zhi Xia directly turned her head and called, "Sister Zhang, call the police. Since you think you''ve done no wrong, let''s go to the station and settle right and wrong there. And I want to make it clear, you two didn''t lose your jobs because of me. The textile factory is a state-owned enterprise, I, Zhi Xia, don''t have the power to make the country do my bidding."


    Although she could easily aplish it if she wanted, Chenye''s family had already acted before she did anything, so she wasn''t lying.


    They weren''t stupid enough to outright fire people either, but went through proper procedures and pretenses, so Zhi Xia wasn''t afraid of exposing herself.


    When Yun Yan''s Mom heard they wanted to call the police, she knew they couldn''t hide their past incident at the station, since that case also went to the police. Truth and lies could be settled in a phone call.


    Afraid, she pulled Yun Yan and ran.


    Zhi Xia had lived here for more than just a day or two. Old Master was a locally prominent figure, so of course neighbors would side with her over neers.


    It was obvious now that as soon as Yun Yan and her mother left, the neighbors all came up to ask questions.


    Zhi Xia didn''t hide anything, directly letting everyone know the truth about Yun Yan and her mother''s despicable character.


    The elderly couple next door happened to be out today, but when they returned and heard about the incident, they also came to ask Zhi Xia what happened.


    This was thest time Zhi Xia saw Yun Yan''s family, because after this, Pei Jing and the An Family acted together to drive them out of Jinchengpletely.


    That''s right, their family didn''t allow abusing power to bully others, but that didn''t mean they would let others insult them freely.


    If Yun Yan''s family had any sense, they wouldn''t have tried to smash an egg against a rock.


    Yun Yan''s mother was quite crafty, contacting a news reporter beforehand to secretly photograph the scene, which was why she immediately knelt without a word when she saw Zhi Xia, trying to establish herself as the victim.


    Her mistake was that after the reporter snapped a few pictures, Yuan Bao charged over with Da Huang to knock the camera from his hands, smashing it. Then Da Huang grabbed the broken camera and ran off without a trace, costing the reporter his equipment and work.


    "School''s out...school''s out..."


    As soon as the triplets and Little Sixth came in, they shouted excitedly, going to find tape to stick their awards on the living room wall.


    To encourage the children''s motivation, Zhi Xia had cleared out thergest wall in the living room and divided sections for each child, specifically for disying their awards.


    With so many children in the family, all exceptional students at school, most of the wall was already covered in awards.


    Although it shed with the house''s style and didn''t look that nice, the children were happy, and it motivated them, which was the priority.


    "Mom, when is Dading back? When do we leave?" Little Sixth asked eagerly, unable to wait.


    Because Zhi Xia had mentioned their trip before, the kids were looking forward to it. Sure enough, they started asking as soon as school let out.


    "Soon, he just set out. He should get home this afternoon. We''ll leave tomorrow, so you guys start packing your things. Don''t wait until we''re leaving to say you forgot this or that," Zhi Xia said.


    With the space as a backup, they didn''t need to bring anything really, but Zhi Xia and Pei Jing preferred to nurture the children''s self-reliance since they couldn''t depend on the space forever and would eventually leave her side.


    "Great, Mom I love you!"


    Little Sixth happily hugged her, making Zhi Xiaugh. "Go on, stop dawdling and pack up."

 Chapter 387: 387 Admire His Heart

    <h4>Chapter 387</h4>


    Although this trip was for the whole family, the main purpose was to apany the daughter. After all, with what had just happened, the child was now at a stage without true friends, so as parents they should pay more attention to her mental state.


    Pei Jing came back quite early, just in time for lunch. After lunch, he exined things to Sister Zhang, and then they went out.


    At this time, the downsides of having so many kids became apparent.


    Pei Jing drove back, but with the whole family going out together, one car obviously wouldn��t fit everyone, so they could only choose to take the train for the long journey.


    Jin City was a southern city, while the Capital City was in the north, quite far away.


    They arrived in the Capital City in the middle of the night. Little Six was already asleep, and the others were also clearly tired.


    "Where are we staying?"


    Compared to Pei Jing, Wanqing definitely wasn��t as familiar with the outside world. Due to his career, although he had spent a lot of time in the army over the years, he had also been to quite a few ces during that time.


    "Let''s stay at a hotel," Pei Jing said. He had done his research ever since they decided toe. "There''s a hotel that just openedst year not far from the train station. It has amodations and food. I went therest year, it was pretty good."


    "Okay, let''s hurry up and go then," Wanqing urged him. "I''m exhausted from sitting in the car."


    Since they couldn''t buy so many berths at once, they could only choose the seated carriage. People were packed tightly together, and it felt like her back would never straighten up again.


    "You never want to exercise more usually, and now you know your physical fitness iscking?" Pei Jing teased her. After sitting on the train for so long, he showed no change in energy levels at all. Plus, he had been holding Little Six without putting him down since getting off the train.


    Chenye and the triplets also seemed spirited. Wanqing was a bit more worn out. Looking at it this way, Wanqing was actually the most pathetic.


    But there was no way around it. She simply didn''t want to exert herself or make things difficult for herself.


    Having been given a second chance at life, she just wanted to enjoy it more and go with the flow.


    "Hurry up, it''s sote already. Let''s get to our ce quickly and rest," Wanqing urged him.


    Luckily all their things were in the spatial storage. Each child carried a small bag with a change of clothes.


    After leaving the train station, the area before them was awash with neon lights. After walking a short distance, they saw arge sign. This was the hotel Pei Jing had mentioned.


    The few kids were all a bit worn out, although their eyes showed curiosity. But at this time, their energy levels were clearly limited.


    Wanqing held onto Wanqing. Mother and daughter leaned against each other. Pei Jing still had plenty of energy as he held Little Six and went to the front desk to check in.


    He had furrowed brows when he left, but came back with a cold expression.


    Wanqing asked him, "What happened? No vacancies?"


    "No, I booked a suite on the second floor. Let''s go," Pei Jing said, then walked ahead to lead the way.


    The hotel beds wererge. Chenye stayed in a room with his younger brothers. Wanqing was older, so it wasn''t suitable for her to stay with them. But they also didn''t feel assured letting their daughter stay alone, so she could only stay with her parents.


    As soon as Wanqing entered the room, she hurried to wash up and brush her teeth before lying down to sleep.


    At this time, Wanqing could no longer bother about fatigue either. "What happened out there just now?"


    The change in his expression was too obvious for her to ignore.


    Just now, with the children around, it wasn''t suitable to speak about some matters. Only now did Pei Jing stop concealing it. "I saw Zhang Lin. She was at the front desk holding onto a man."


    Zhang Lin was Wu Lei''s former wife who had cheated on him, then abandoned their son to run off with another man while Wu Lei was in jail.


    It had been many years since this incident, so Wanqing was a bit stunned for a moment before recalling who this person was.


    She furrowed her brows. "Did she try to talk to you?"


    Zhang Lin had never been an honest woman. Back when Chenye was born and they were renting her house, she had tried to seduce Pei Jing. Pei Jing had never hidden this from Wanqing.


    "No, she didn''t. But she did recognize me. She probably didn''t want the man by her side to know about her past, so she hurried off." When Zhang Lin looked at him, the astonishment in that instant was obvious. Also,pared to before, Zhang Lin in her thirties now dressed more beautifully and charmingly, with big waves in her red lips. She looked clearly indecent.


    "Are you sure it was Zhang Lin?" Wanqing considered whether or not she should notify Wu Lei about this.


    After all, she and Wu Lei were currently in a cooperative partnership, plus Wu Lei had suffered quite terribly due to Zhang Lin.


    "Don''t doubt your husband''s eyes," Pei Jing said, stroking her hair. "Hurry up and get ready for bed. Though it''s annoying, it''s a rare chance for us all to be out together. We can''t let some irrelevant person ruin our mood."


    "Mm," Wanqing nced back at her daughter who had buried herself in the quilt, then tiptoed to give him a quick peck on the lips. "You should hurry to bed too."


    By the time shey down, Wanqing was already asleep.


    Wanqing thought and thought some more, then decided to notify Wu Lei.


    But to her greater surprise, Wu Lei had already seen Zhang Lin before.


    While Zhang Lin could be heartless, Wu Lei could not be, after all Zhang Lin was still his son''s mother. Arguing back and forth would only end up hurting the child in the end.


    His life was stable now, his career sessful, so naturally his mindset had broadened.


    He and Zhang Lin had also reached an agreement. As long as Zhang Lin didn''t actively provoke him or appear before their son, Wu Lei would also pretend not to see her. The two would beplete strangers to each other.


    On this point, Wanqing sincerely admired Wu Lei''s magnanimity.


    Before dawn, there was a knock on the door. Pei Jing got up and opened it, and several children rushed into the room in a stream. "Mom, wake up quick! We''re going to climb the Great Wall today..."


    "No way! I want to go see the Forbidden City and museums..."


    In an instant, the children began arguing loudly over where to go y first.


    "Stop arguing," Pei Jing settled them down with one sentence. "We''ll go to the Great Wall first, then the Forbidden City..."


    "Have you all washed up and brushed your teeth?"


    "We did."


    "Chenye, first take them downstairs to see the dining options. Order what you each want to eat, but don''t waste food. Finish everything you order."


    While Pei Jing arranged their time, Wanqing and Wanqing were getting ready.


    When they finished and went downstairs, the kids were already sitting in the dining area eating.


    The hotel breakfast was buffet style, and meal fees were already included in the lodging fees. Since Wanqing had just gotten up and didn''t have an appetite, she only had an egg and a bowl of porridge.


    Wanqing ate quite a lot, needing nutrition to grow. Although Pei Jing also ate a lot, he was also quick.


    After finishing breakfast, they headed out when there was just a faint morning light outside. At this time of day, the sky hadn''t yet been polluted and you could faintly see lingering stars that hadn''t managed to return home.


    The air contained moist, foggy traces, deeply inhaling a breath that carried a refreshingly cool meaning.

 Chapter 388: 388 Doesn鈥檛 like Public Goods.

    <h4>Chapter 388</h4>


    Sitting on the bus, Pei Jing led the way. After a bumpy ride, they soon arrived at the foot of the Great Wall.


    Climbing the Great Wall really took great effort. They were full of excitement when they came, but it was difficult for Wanqing and Know Summer, while Little Six was still young and began tock strength halfway, only able to lie on his brother''s back.


    Pei Jing also carried Wanqing for a while. He wanted to carry Know Summer as well but she refused, so he had to give up.


    Wanqing was the only daughter in the family. Apart from being a little naughty when she was young, she was very well-behaved now. Pei Jing was very strict with his sons, but for his daughter, both parents wanted her to be happy.


    Especially Know Summer, who had experienced too much and seen too much. She treasured life more than ordinary people and did not want to fail this reincarnated life.


    Everyone wanted to be outstanding, but most people were quite mediocre. Sometimes people still had to ept reality.


    Moreover, although no one urged them, Chenye had set a direction from above, and the younger children were also working hard to follow.


    By the time they climbed up the Great Wall, they were almost exhausted.


    At this moment, the sun rose in the east. Its rays dyed half of the sky red, and there was a sea of rosy clouds between heaven and earth. The scenery was extremely beautiful.


    Wanqing, who had justined about having no strength, suddenly became energetic. She turned back in pleasant surprise and urged, "Mom, quick, give me the camera. I want to capture this scene, it''s so gorgeous!"


    Sunrise was a fleeting moment. Know Summer did not hesitate and immediately handed her the camera.


    There were many people around, including foreigners with golden hair and blue eyes.


    Facing this novel scene, there was obviously more to talk about between the children.


    Chenye and Wanqing led their younger brothers to take pictures everywhere and chatted with foreigners in fluent English to take group photos.


    Pei Jing walked over and said a few words to Chenye, then came back to pull Know Summer away, "Let Chenye and Wanqing watch them, let''s take a walk."


    "Okay," Know Summer looked up at him, and they smiled at each other. Even in silence, everything was conveyed without words.


    Pei Jing, now 39 years old, was no longer young. But time seemed to be particrly favorable to him. His wheat skin still looked full, and his whole person was full of robust beauty.


    Compared to when he was young, he was even more charming and attractive as a mature man.


    Know Summer sometimes wondered if what was between her and Pei Jing was love?


    As a result, she did not know either.


    But in their 13 years of marriage, they understood each other and supported each other. He made her feel that marrying him, she was happy.


    Compared to love, she probably preferred such a stable life now.


    Her growing environment had already determined that she was a personcking love, easily seduced by a little bit of kindness from others. But he was willing to give her enough patience and care, which made her feel more thoughtful than sweet words.


    Compared to most people around her, she was also very satisfied with her life.


    They did not walk far in their stroll, after all, the children were still behind.


    On the way back, he let go of her hand and suddenly squatted in front of her and said, "Come on, I''ll carry you back."


    "No need to carry me, I''m not tired," she said, knowing that although he was very fit, she still felt bad to exploit him like that after walking so much and carrying kids.


    Everyone was human, and would get tired. He was no exception.


    "I know you''re not tired, but I want to carry you."


    Perhaps it was because he spoke with such sincerity that Know Summer''s heart stirred.


    She carefullyy on his back, feeling his sturdy shoulders.


    The sun had risen, warming people, but not as much as the warmth in her heart.


    At that moment, she wanted to ask him if he liked her.


    But on second thought, what was the point of dwelling on these things?


    They had a 13-year marriage and 6 children. Their feelings had long since surpassed the question of liking or not.


    "Do you like going out to y?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "Of course, who wouldn''t?" In fact, she had existed for a very long time, but she hadn''t been to many ces.


    She was immersed in hatred and couldn''t get out of it for the first few decades, following her enemy and family every day, immersing herself in pain over and over again.


    Later, when everyone was dead, she didn''t even know what the meaning of her existence was anymore. But she had already died once and could not die again. She was like a lost child who could not even find the way to reincarnate.


    After wandering nkly for a while, she began to wander everywhere.


    But one was always lonely, even touring lost meaning.


    She began following others again, first a little girl whom she followed to school, bringing her own longing to experience other people''s lives.


    Later there were many people and many things she liked, but she would quickly lose interest.


    She was quite grateful for that meteorite because it gave her a new life again and a happy family too.


    "When the children grow up in a few more years, I''ll retire, then take you to see the beauty of this greatnd properly. We''ll get a car then and go wherever we want, take breaks when we''re tired, see the kids, wouldn''t that be nice?"


    When young, one always wanted to achieve something remarkable, but different ages brought different ideas.


    Pei Jing had the memories of an extra lifetime, although those memories were only about her and the children, but they also brought tremendous changes to his state of mind.


    Now the country was peaceful and not at war, so he should also spend more time at home making up for his neglect of the children.


    No matter whether Know Summer was Ameixia from that lifetime, she was his wife, and Little Six was enough to prove those memories were not fabricated.


    "Alright, that''s what you said, you have to keep your word," Know Summer said with a smile.


    If that day really came, she would also hand over the factory''s management to someone else and properly live her own life.


    By noon the heat was unbearable and everyone was exhausted, so they had no choice but to go down to find a nearby hotel to check in.


    Coincidentally, while Pei Jing was out smoking, they ran into Zhang Lin again, even staying in the same hotel next door.


    "Director Pei, long time no see." This time there were no other men around. Zhang Lin was more casual, brushed her long bangs with her fingers, looking even more morous.


    After many years, this man still made her heart beat faster.


    She was no inexperienced woman, just liking those young men with merely superficial charm.


    Those with experience would understand-a strong physique and firm muscles made a man better in bed.


    Pei Jing ignored her and put out his cigarette to leave.


    Zhang Lin blocked his way, batting her eyshes coquettishly, "Director Pei, I know you''re a rare good man, but one has to live life vigorously. Your little wife looks good and has quite the figure, but seems so innocent. She probably can''t satisfy you in bed. Don''t you want to experience passion?"


    "My room is next door. You..." She hinted suggestively, wanting to caress his chest with her fingers.


    Pei Jing avoided her in disgust. "Ms Zhang, I love cleanliness and don''t really like public goods."

 Chapter 389: 389 The more you don鈥檛 get, the more itchy you are.

    <h4>Chapter 389</h4>


    Zhang Lin''s face turned pale, no matter how thick her skin was, she still looked ugly at this moment.


    Since she was young, Zhang Lin had relied on her face to maneuver between men, and had always been invincible. But she had failed in front of this man several times.


    But a woman like her just had a cheap character. The more she could not get it, the more restless she was.


    Looking at Pei Jing''s back, a firm light of must-win shed in Zhang Lin''s eyes.


    Pei Jing opened the door and returned to the room. He saw Wanqing had just finished washing up with his daughter. Her hair was wrapped in a hair dryer cap and hadn''t been blown dry yet, with drops of water oozing from the ends.


    "You look so ugly, have you met someone you don''t want to meet again?" Because that was the case yesterday, Wanqing couldn''t help asking.


    "I met a lunatic." In front of his daughter, Pei Jing didn''t dare to say it too bluntly, for fear of teaching the child badly.


    But the contempt in his eyes was unabashed at all.


    Although he was usually stern and cold, he was always a well-mannered person. This time he was really disgusted, otherwise he wouldn''t be able to say such sharp words.


    If the other party was a heinous viin, he was not afraid at all. On the contrary, it was the harassment of such shameless people that disgusted him the most. He could do nothing about her and could only use some simple verbal attacks to make her know the difficulties and retreat.


    Wanqing was at the age of being very curious. Without hearing Pei Jing''s implication, she really thought he had met a lunatic, and curiously asked, "Dad, what did the lunatic do to you?"


    "If she could really do anything to me, wouldn''t your dad''s years of practice have been in vain?" When facing his daughter, Pei Jing''s face began to improve.


    Seeing that she still wanted to ask something, Pei Jing hurriedly interrupted her and deliberately said, "Didn''t you just mor that you were too tired to walk? Now you have the strength again? Or let''s go to the Imperial Pce or museum this afternoon to take a quick look so we can go back sooner?"


    "No, no, my legs are almost broken. Let''s go tomorrow. I''ll take a nap now." Wanqing widened her eyes in fright and hurried back into the quilt.


    Wanqing signaled to him with her eyes, "You go take a shower and rx your muscles, then take a nap. Let''s go around nearby this afternoon to see if there are any specialties that would be good to bring back for grandpa and grandma."


    "Okay." Pei Jing took the towel from her and turned to enter the bathroom.


    Wanqing whispered a few words to her daughter, then followed him in.


    Pei Jing had just taken off his outer clothes and was still wearing his autumn clothes and pants.


    The bathroom waspletely separated from the bedroom. With the door closed, they could talk softly without being overheard outside.


    "Did you run into Zhang Lin again outside?" His expression today was so simr to yesterday''s, it wasn''t hard to guess.


    Pei Jing sighed. Except for topics rted to the army, they generally had no secrets from each other.


    It was because of this that the two trusted each other more.


    After listening to the whole story, Wanqing couldn''t help but frown, even though they hadn''t suffered any loss or injury.


    This Zhang Lin was really annoying.


    "Don''t get angry. It''s not worth getting angry over someone like her. Go rest quickly. We''ll go out again tonight and find another hotel to stay in. There''s no way we''ll run into her again by coincidence." Pei Jing said.


    Wanqing nodded, but still couldn''t help saying, "Although this woman is not up to much, she has always been obsessed with you."


    "Don''t annoy me. I don''t care how other women are, as long as you are always true to me."


    "It is said that true hearts exchange true hearts. If you really treat me well, then I will naturally reciprocate."


    Pei Jing smiled and was in no hurry to urge her to leave. On the contrary, his interest was aroused and he hugged her by the waist and pressed his lips down.


    Lingering and lingering, entangled endlessly...


    "Fool, do you still not know if my heart is true or not?" Pei Jing panted and pressed her in his arms, but didn''t dare continue. After all, there was still a child outside, and they were not so shameless.


    "Let''s stop talking. Let go of me quickly. I have to go out. Wanqing is grown up now. Don''t embarrass yourself in front of the child."


    Pei Jing obediently let go of his hands.


    In front of his daughter, he should indeed pay attention.


    After Wanqing went out,pletely blocking the view inside, the sound of running water immediately rang out from the bathroom.


    She blew her hair dry with a hairdryer, then walked to the bed to see Wanqing already asleep under the quilt.


    They had stayed uptest night, and got up early this morning, so she must have been extremely tired to fall asleep so quickly.


    Wanqing lifted the quilt andy down, gently kissing her daughter''s face before blissfully burying herself in the quilt.


    When Pei Jing came out, she was already fast asleep. He walked over and tucked them in properly before turning to go to the sofa.


    The sofa was not big, it could only amodate him lying there. It might be morefortable with several brats. But the world was still not very peaceful nowadays, so it was even more worrying to let mother and daughter stay alone.


    Chenye on the other side was also grown up, and had always been sensible. His fighting skills were personally trained by Pei Jing, and the triplets had also practiced martial arts for several years, so self-protection was absolutely no problem at all, so they didn''t need to worry too much about the children.


    He had originally nned to sleep until mid-afternoon before getting up, but apparently he was too tired and opened his eyes to find it was already dark outside.


    When Wanqing sat up from the bed, Wanqing was still asleep, and Pei Jing''s figure was gone from the sofa.


    She groped out of bed in the dark and put on her shoes. Pei Jing had just returned from outside.


    Wanqing was afraid of waking Wanqing, so she pulled him to the door and asked in a low voice, "How long have you been awake? Where are those little guys?"


    "I just came back from their room. Chenye took them out to eat. Are you hungry?" Pei Jing said softly.


    If it was the other children, he would have called them to eat. But Wanqing had always been irritable when woken up from a bad sleep. Her whole mood would be very annoyed.


    The family knew her quirks, so there were rarely situations where she was woken up before she was fully awake.


    Fortunately, her schedule was usually regr. She got up at the fixed time of 6 a.m. every day to catch breakfast and go to school. At other times, they wouldn''t force her.


    Just as they were talking, there was the sound of tossing and turning from the bed as Wanqing sat up.


    "Mom..." She murmured hoarsely.


    "Awake? Did you sleep well? Your brother has taken your brothers out to eat. Are you hungry?" Wanqing hurriedly asked.


    "Mm." Wanqing nodded and groped her way out of bed to put on her shoes.


    Having just opened her eyes, they hadn''t adjusted to the bright light yet, so Wanqing didn''t turn on the lights. Luckily the moonlight tonight was good, shining in through the windows to provide some brightness.


    After she went to wash up, Wanqing turned on the bedsidemp so she could see clearly when she came out without being blinded.


    The family had been in a happy mood, but as soon as they opened the door, they saw Zhang Lin leaning against the wall in the corridor.


    After so many years, this was the first time Wanqing had run into her. She had to admit that this woman did have the capital to fascinate people, so it was no wonder she was so arrogant.

 Chapter 390: 390 Shame is Self-inflicted.

    <h4>Chapter 390</h4>


    "Let''s go, don''t keep Chenye and the others waiting down there too long," Wanqing said with a smile, not taking Zhang Lin seriously at all.


    Zhang Lin may have been a very beautiful woman, but Wanqing was no less so, they simply had different kinds of beauty.


    Even if Zhang Lin''s intentions were impure, Pei Jing would never fall for her tricks. She was being too arrogant trying to show off in front of them like this.


    Pei Jing''s face darkened as he nodded, taking Wanqing''s hand and striding forward. But in his mind, he was already thinking of cancelling their room and finding a new ce to stay as soon as they got back.


    "Oh my, isn''t this Comrade Pei and Comrade An? I haven''t seen you two in so long, you don''t recognize me anymore!" Seeing that they had no intention of acknowledging her, Zhang Lin was clearly unwilling to let things go. She hurried to block their path, putting on a familiar demeanor. Then looking at Little Wanqing in feigned delight, "This is one of the twins you gave birth to back then right? My how time flies, it feels like just yesterday when you two were renting a ce from me and your little one was just born. I remember it like it was yesterday."


    Little Wanqing looked bewilderedly at her parents, then at the overly enthusiastic Zhang Lin. She shrank back warily behind Pei Jing.


    This auntie was too enthusiastic, it felt strange.


    And Little Wanqing really didn''t like how she looked at her parents.


    "Comrade Zhang, you''ve made one mistake. We were renting from your ex-husband, it was no longer your ce. Also, my family just wants to enjoy our vacation in peace without being disturbed. If I remember correctly, the man you''re with today is already married, no? I''m sure you wouldn''t want his wifeing to find you." Pei Jing really didn''t want to talk about this in front of the children, but he had to let them know this woman was no friend, so they would be on guard against any harm from her.


    This was the second confrontation between the two women, and once again Zhang Lin was defeated. She could only watch with gritted teeth as Pei Jing and Wanqing walked away hand in hand.


    Little Wanqing also held Pei Jing''s hand as they left. She looked back and happened to see the murderous look on Zhang Lin''s face.


    She shivered violently, "Dad, Mom, that auntie was ring at us just now. Does she have some grudge against our family?"


    "Not exactly a grudge, but she has ulterior motives. Be extra cautious if you see her again in the future, try to keep your distance." Wanqing cautioned her daughter.


    "Mm, I understand." Little Wanqing nodded solemnly. Having just gone through the ordeal with Yunyan, she now felt a particr dislike towards people with obviously ill intentions.


    This hotel didn''t provide meals, so Chenye had taken Little Sixth and the others to eat at the restaurant across the street earlier. By the time Wanqing and the others arrived, they were already halfway through their meal.


    "Mom, Dad, over here..." Little Sixth waved at them as they approached. Then heined to Little Wanqing, "Sis, you''re sozy. If you hadn''t slept in this morning, we could''vee out to eat dinner together earlier, then gone out to y right after finishing the meal."


    After all, this was the capital city, even livelier than Jincheng. Just now he''d already seen how exciting it was outside, if not for his big brother pressing him toe eat first, he would''ve run off long ago.


    Hearing this, Little Wanqing became unhappy. She went over and pinched his face, "You little punk, how dare you call mezy. Why don''t you say that you were too greedy for food, that''s why you pestered big brother into bringing you out to eat. Otherwise big brother would never have left me and mom and dad behind to eat by himself."


    "Ow, stop pinching my face!" Little Sixth grimaced and pushed Little Wanqing''s hand away.


    Seeing they were about to start bickering, Wanqing quickly smoothed things over, "Alright you two, stop fighting. Little Wanqing, sit down and hurry up and order something to eat. Weren''t we going to take a stroll around town after eating? If we dy any longer, there''ll be hardly anyone left outsideter tonight."


    Wanqing exaggerated on purpose. They''d already checked earlier, there was a night market nearby that stayed open past midnight. The surrounding shops were also open until 10 or 11pm.


    Sure enough, afraid they''d miss out on time and not get to see everything, Little Wanqing promptly forgot about arguing.


    The liveliness was the main appeal of going shopping. What fun was there if no one was around!


    After the meal, Pei Jing went to settle their bill.


    The family walked down the street holding hands, young and old. Their exceptional looks made them a strikingly handsome sight.


    The children had boundless energy. They''d been exhausted and lying down at the hotel this afternoon, but after a nap they were raring to go again. Wanqing could barely keep up with their pace.


    Behind them, Chenye led Little Fifth and Little Sixth around sightseeing, while Wanqing took Little Third and Little Fourth. Wanqing and Pei Jing simply followed along behind the children, paying for everything they wanted.


    "Anyway we didn''t bring much to the hotel, so let''s just find a ce to stay around wherever we end up tonight?" Wanqing didn''t want to risk running into Zhang Lin again by going back. Although the other woman couldn''t actually do anything, it still left a bad taste for her husband to be coveted by that sort of woman.


    "Alright, whatever you say." Pei Jing had only paid for one day when checking in, even without going to check out, their room would automatically be checked out after the appointed time.


    At some point Pei Jing also made a phone call, though his expression was very solemn so she couldn''t make out what was said.


    When he finished, Wanqing asked if something had happened. Pei Jing simply replied no, finally putting her mind at ease.


    They''d barely been out two days, it would be such a pity if he got called back urgently now.


    "Right, how did you know the man with Zhang Lin was married?" Wanqing suddenly recalled.


    "Just a coincidence, I happened to have seen that man before, and his wife too." Pei Jing didn''t borate further.


    Both Wanqing and Pei Jing knew Zhang Lin was intentionally provoking them, and clearly still harbored ill intentions towards Pei Jing.


    Pei Jing wouldn''t have reached his position today without some luck, but even more crucially, his own ability.


    After his warning, Zhang Lin daring to intentionally appear before this husband and wife again meant this was herst chance.


    Since she had no shame already, naturally they needn''t bother showing her any face.


    Originally her affair with Wu Lei was none of their business, but she insisted on provoking them.


    Back when Wanqing was still unaware, Pei Jing''s phone call had already taken effect.


    Inside the hotel room, Zhang Lin was entangled in passionate intimacy on the soft big bed, broken moans escaping her throat, both pleasurable and pained.


    She was frustrated on the inside, so she took it out on her body, wanting to thoroughly vent it all out.


    The man beneath her also wrinkled his brow, panting out a few moans before reaching his peak, his whole body going limp.


    Zhang Lin murmured praise with her mouth, pretending to be blissful, but out of the man''s sight she couldn''t help curling her lip in distaste.


    Discounting the time she''d spent painstakingly serving him, the whole thing hadn''t evensted a full minute. Useless man.


    She''d just propped herself up, about to get up and wash herself clean, when the room door crashed open...

 Chapter 391: 391 to Live a long Life.

    <h4>Chapter 391</h4>


    Unfortunately Pei Jing and them were not there and did not see this wonderful scene.


    In the hotel lobby, a naked woman was being dragged out by her hair by several people, while a disheveled man warily looked this way and then sneakily slipped away when no one was paying attention.


    The naked woman, however, was pressed to the ground and whipped and reviled, and no one nearby was willing to go up and help.


    Fortunately, in thest two years the political winds had not been too tight, otherwise if this had happened a few years ago, someone who did something like being a mistress would have been paraded through the streets and beaten.


    Now when the original wife tracked her down, beating her up was getting off easy.


    Old Master and Old Madam knew nothing of this as they had been outte with the children, buying many things and secretly putting them into the space, without any burden at all. After they finished shopping they even ate ate night snack.


    They found a nearby hotel to stay the night, and slept until noon the next day.


    When they went out, they happened to run into someone selling newspapers, and heard there was fresh gossip that many people were scrambling for.


    Old Master conveniently bought one, and saw a huge headline in thick ck letters, clearly visible.


    Last night someone was caught cheating by his original wife at a certain hotel, mistress was pressed naked to the ground and rubbed on the floor! Underneath was a blurry ck and white photo.


    This photo made Old Master''s eyes clearly light up, and she turned and showed it to Pei Jing, "Pei Jing, don''t you think this person looks a little familiar?"


    Her onion-white fingers pointed at the person in the picture, her eyes full of gossip.


    She would not have taken such delight in misfortune if it was someone else, but Zhang Lin was getting what she deserved.


    Pei Jing''s mouth curved up imperceptibly as he took the newspaper and folded it up, "Don''t let things like this dirty your eyes, the children are here."


    Although the photo was blurred and censored, the older children understood what was going on.


    In the end, this incident was just an interlude in their journey, though somewhat annoying, it was not enough to affect their mood.


    Since they got up toote, they missed the g raising ceremony, but the majesty of the Imperial Pce and the historic environment all made the children feel it was fresh and new.


    Old Master and Old Madam each held a camera, constantly taking pictures of them along the way.


    They stayed in Beijing for a total of one week, spending thest two days not going anywhere, because they had yed so crazily the previous days that their feet were nearly blistered, so they simply rested for the final two days.


    By the time they returned to Jin City, it was already the twenty-fifth day of the twelfth lunar month.


    As soon as they got home, Pei Jing changed clothes, "I''ll go next door to see Old Master and Old Madam first, then I''ll return to my troops. I won''t go to my parents'' ce for now, you can exin it to them when you go to An''s family, and I''ll go see them when Ie back in a few days."


    "Is it urgent?" Old Master asked, seeing his anxious appearance.


    "It''s not too urgent, I just want to go take a look, and I''lle back to apany you guys for New Year''s in a few days." He smiled at her, and stole a kiss on her cheek while the children were not around.


    "Alright then, I''ll go with you to see Old Master and Old Madam, and bring over the gifts we got for them." She had already apanied them to y for so many days, Old Master could not ask him to stay any longer.


    Also, having been away for so many days, she had to go take a look at the factory too.


    These past few days, Old Master had not been in good spirits, and kept having moments of confusion.


    Old Master''s condition worried Old Madam, but Old Madam took it philosophically, saying they were old and it was not easy for them to live to this age. She told Old Master not to worry too much and to take it as ites.


    Old people had to take that step eventually.


    In fact, Old Madam had already secretly prepared shrouds for them, but did not dare let others see, for fear of causing distress.


    They had only spoken for a few sentences when Old Master fell asleep on the recliner, even snoring.


    Old Madam was used to this and pulled a nearby nket over him, signaling them to go out first.


    When they got to the yard, Old Master dared to ask her, "Granny, has Grandfather been like this often recently? Should we take him to the hospital for a checkup?"


    Over the years, Old Master had not stinted on finding them good things, but as Old Madam said, people would eventually take that step, and no one could live forever.


    Old Madam sighed, but said, "Whether to go or not doesn''t matter much, your third brother has notcked for visits recently, and he''s the best doctor at their hospital now, who could be better than him? Actually, your grandfather''s health had not been good for many years, and thesest few years he was able to livefortably thanks to your blessing. At our age, we''ve lived enough, I just hope that when the timees we can die a quick, painless death, that''s all."


    No matter how many health foods elderly people eat, they cannot regain their youth. Many things were now beyond their strength.


    Compared to others, they had lived a worthy life, their only regret being the early death of their little daughter, which still pained Old Madam whenever she thought of it.


    She actually hoped that she would be the unhealthy one now, having experienced life and death she was even more reluctant to see loved ones go.


    She and Old Master were joined in marriage by their parents, without much romance or love, but rather affection and responsibility. Yet they still had a peaceful, happy life together, which was worthy.


    Returning to her own home, Old Master was in low spirits.


    Aside from Fourth Brother, Old Master and Old Madam were the first in this family to show her goodwill, and had always been her staunchest supporters. Hearing Old Master was in poor health, of course she would worry.


    Pei Jingforted her in his arms, "Don''t be sad, Grandfather just wasn''t feeling well these past few days, maybe he''ll recover in a few days."


    Even though they both knew these words were just tofort themselves.


    Pei Jing did not leave after all, because he felt Old Master needed someone''spany right now, even if they did nothing, just staying by her side would help.


    They were both mired in gloom, but in the afternoon Old Master came over very spiritedly, with Old Madam following behindining, though the smile on her face showed her mood.


    "Grandpa, you''re full of energy now?" Old Master could not describe it, but the Old Master before her now was obviously in apletely different state than when they had visited him at noon.


    Lying there at noon, unwilling to even speak and with drooping eyelids, seeming even to find it tiring to look at her. Where was that now with his hearty vigor, one look and you could sense his energy.


    "You''re saying I was low on energy? I was just taking a nap when you came at noon, slept for a bit and was rejuvenated!" Old Master said discontentedly.


    Old Master smiled, her eyes wet.


    It was good Grandfather was fine, who knows how she wanted to cry but did not dare when she saw him listless at noon.


    "Oh right, where are the children? Let me see if they got tanned on this trip!"


    Old Master went to the children''s room, the few children chattering around him, telling him about what they had seen and done on the trip, and showing Old Master the photos they had taken.


    Old Master asked Old Madam, "Granny, stay for dinnerter alright, have Fourth Sister in Law bring the children too. We brought back a lot of delicious things from this trip, they''re frozen, just right to heat up and eat."


    "Alright, granny won''t stand on ceremony with you then." Old Madam was also happy inside. In fact, Old Master had given them a share of the things she brought back, but it was livelier with everyone together.


    Old Master told Zhang''s wife she was going out to buy groceries, but actually just took a turn around the block symbolically before returning with meat and vegetables.


    Dinner was prepared veryvishly, with Beijing roast duck and local specialties they had brought back from Beijing. Luckily the weather was cold so no one would suspect these were things she had kept in her space after bringing them back.


    Old Master spent the whole afternoon in the room chatting with the children, and when Old Master went to call him for dinner, she even heard him telling the children to study hard and listen to adults.


    After dinner the sky outside was already dark. Zhang''s wife was cleaning up the kitchen. Old Master asked Pei Jing, "Grandfather seems to really have nothing wrong with him, why don''t you leave tomorrow morning?"


    She had been too rmist, seeing his listlessness before and hearing Old Madam say he had not been well these past days, her mind went wild with spection.


    Now that she thought about it, it was probably because the children were not home these past few days that was weighing on his mind.


    After all, Old Master had still been fine when they left, only losing spirit after they came back.


    Pei Jing shook his head helplessly, "As soon as Grandfather''s better he wants me to leave, doesn''t he want me to stay and keep youpany?"


    ��It was you who said you had to leave. I was just worried about dying your important work,�� Zhi Xia put her arms around his neck. Although she was in her thirties, her smile was still as charming as a young girl��s. ��If I cling to you every day, wouldn''t you find me annoying?��


    ��No, I wouldn''t.�� Pei Jing just felt like he owed her too much and felt sorry for her thoughtfulness.


    After Aunt Zhang finished tidying up, she told Zhi Xia she was heading back. The children could now take care of themselves without her having to worry too much.


    That night, lying in Pei Jing''s arms, she vaguely heard the sound of wind outside, but her body was too tired for her to open her eyes.


    The next morning when she opened the door, she saw the yard was full of fallen leaves that had been blown down.


    Aunt Zhang was already outside sweeping with a broom,ining, "I don''t know where that gust of evil wind came fromst night. It blew off the branches of the trees in the backyard."


    Although it was calm now, the weather was still bitterly cold. Zhi Xia called out, "Aunt Zhang, it��s too cold out. Don''t keep working. Just sweep after the sunes out. It won''t bete."


    "It''s fine. I''m just getting some exercise. Moving around will keep me from getting cold," Aunt Zhang said with a smile.


    Pei Jing had already put on his clothes. The children were still not up. Zhi Xia went to the kitchen to make breakfast for him so he could eat before leaving.


    But when he was halfway through eating, Su Ying came running in in panic, "Zhi Xia, Pei Jing, grandpa is gone..."


    The bowl in Zhi Xia''s hand fell to the ground and shattered, but she hurriedly asked, "Wasn''t grandpa still fine when he went homest night?"


    "Yes, he was fine when he went home, grumbling in the living room for a long time, saying he was worried that third uncle still wasn''t married, and shouting that he wanted to go to dad��s ce. Grandma said it was toote to go just to make trouble, so he didn''t end up going as originally nned for today. Then when grandma woke up she found he had no breath left..." Su Ying sobbed as she stumbled through her words.


    Zhi Xia suddenly thought of a phrase��rally before death.


    No wonder grandma said he had been listless the past few days, but suddenly became energetic yesterday afternoon.


    Zhi Xia and Pei Jing hurried over there. As they went out the door, Pei Jing yelled, "Chenye, call your uncle and ask him toe back."


    When Zhi Xia arrived, the old master was lying t on the bed, his face very serene. Other than his unnaturally paleplexion, he looked no different than if he was just sleeping.


    But Zhi Xia knew he was really gone.


    In that moment, tears suddenly flowed uncontrolled down her cheeks as she broke into sobs...


    On the day the old master was buried, heavy snowkes fell.


    With his passing, the old madam also lost her spirit. Zhi Xia wanted her toe live here, but she refused to agree. She then moved to stay with An Jingzhi instead.


    Now only the old woman was left alone. She had originally thought of having Su Ying live here to help look after her grandmother, but now that Su Ying was in poor health with her son and daughter-inw to care for, it was unreasonable to burden her daughter-inw.


    Aunt Zhou didn��t go with the old madam to An Jingzhi��s ce, instead staying here with Su Ying per the old madam��s wishes.


    Pei Jing had remained home instead of leaving. The New Year of 1985 was the saddest one Zhi Xia had experienced since her rebirth. She, who hadn''t been sick once since her rebirth, also developed a minor cold, possibly from crying too much, making her throat very ufortable.


    He was supposed to leave tomorrow, but seeing her condition, Pei Jing felt very distressed. "Don''t be so sad. Grandpa always doted on you. Before he passed, he was still thinking of us, so if he knew you were so heartbroken now, he would surely feel even more distressed and unable to rest in peace."


    "I know. Don''t worry about me. I''ll get better after a few days."


    "I''m noting back for a special reason, but because I want to. I want to be by your side when you''re sad, that''s all." Pei Jing held her in his arms. "Zhi Xia, don''t be so thoughtful. It worries me. You can try to be more willful, or make demands of me. Even excessive demands would be fine."


    "Then can you promise me you won''t die before me?"


    Her words made him freeze for a moment, the usually perceptive him took a while to react.


    But sheughed in his arms, "That shouldn''t be an excessive demand, right?"


    As sheughed, there was some sadness.


    For Pei Jing, this request wasn''t excessive at all, but he didn''t dare to promise it.


    He was 8 years older than her. His previous self had lived less than 50 years before dying from illness. This life would probably be different, but he didn''t dare to rashly make assurances.


    He wanted to be with her forever, but also feared making a vow he couldn''t keep if he didn''t live long and ended up dragging her down instead.


    Zhi Xia had already pulled out of his embrace and looked up at him, her gaze uncertain.


    Pei Jing changed the subject tofort her, "Don''t say such nonsense. We''re both still young and should live to a hundred years old, to see our children start families and enjoy domestic bliss. We''re still young, so mentioning life and death is inauspicious."


    Zhi Xia also smiled along and said, "Alright, we''ll live to a hundred."

 Chapter 392: 392 Want Kids Unless You don鈥檛 Work.

    <h4>Chapter 392</h4>


    Although Liu Chunhua was not the woman Pei JianGuo was interested in, only after marrying her did he start living a life that satisfied him the most.


    This woman was quite good-looking, with a gentle personality, eyes downcast humbly. Whether in bed or in daily life, she could serve him very well and was obedient enough.


    And Pei JianGuo, who had been with several women, was no longer naively longing for love like when he was young. Looking closely at the woman beside him, he actually felt that his current life was not bad.


    At the same time, for Liu Chunhua, Pei JianGuo was also an ideal match.


    He was handsome and capable of making money. He just had a bad temper asionally and liked to be coaxed. As his wife, she not only had to be his wife, but also had to nurture and tolerate him all-around like his mother.


    For Liu Chunhua, doing housework and pleasing others had long been ingrained skills. At the very least, Pei JianGuo would not beat or kick her when he was unhappy.


    The only downside was that there was a meddlesome mother-inw and sister-inw, plus Pei JianGuo did not want to have another child.


    That was fine too. It is said that a daughter-inw who perseveres for ten years will wear down her mother-inw. She would surely wear the olddy down sooner orter.


    As for children, this was the only thing Liu Chunhua could notpromise on.


    Pei JianGuo already had a son, but he was not her son.


    What��s more, the child was not close to Pei JianGuo either, let alone her as a stepmother.


    She was a woman, and more of a traditional woman. Her family education made her firmly believe that in order to gain a firm foothold in this family, she must give birth to her own son. Only then could she have someone to rely on in her old age.


    Pei JianGuo was very guarded against her. Knowing that he did not want children, she never dared to reveal her desire to have children in front of him. On the contrary, because of her previous miscarriage, she pretended to be very averse to having children.


    Seeing that it was about time for him to take hisst batch of contraceptive pills, Liu Chunhua began to make ns in her mind. She must seize this opportunity.


    She secretly took out the money she had saved for a long time. The amount was notrge, but it was enough to serve the purpose.


    Liu Chunhua went out alone and secretly went to the hospital.


    Today, Pei JianGuo came home a littlete because he met his former colleagues after work and went out for a gathering.


    Then he learned from his colleague a piece of news that did not make him very happy.


    It turned out that the reason why he was able to be transferred to the Construction Bureau back then and was valued by senior leaders was actually because of An ZhiXia.


    As for why he then sat on the bench again, it must be because the leaders knew that there was no affection between him and An ZhiXia.


    This result made Pei JianGuo feel a little ufortable and hard to ept for a while.


    In a depressed mood, he returned home to find that unlike usual days when amp would be left on in the living room no matter howte he came back, today it was pitch dark, worsening his already bad mood.


    The bedroom was still dark. Could she be sleeping?


    He did not doubt at all that Liu Chunhua would not be at home. When he decided to marry her, he knew that this woman was honest and timid, usually staying at home with little going out or contact with others. What��s more, it was sote, she simply had nowhere to go.


    As for her natal family, it was obviously a dangerous ce to begin with. As long as she was not stupid, she would not take the initiative to get close to them.


    Back then, somehow Liu''s Father got the news that Liu Chunhua had registered their marriage with him, and came to extort money from him.


    Fortunately, Liu Chunhua also knew what her biological father was like. She took the initiative to cooperate with him and said that Gao Dalin owed a lot of money and she was given to him to pay off Gao Dalin��s debt. If Liu''s Father wanted to take his daughter away, he had to pay back the money Gao Dalin owed first. After all, as Gao Dalin��s former wife, Liu Chunhua also had to bear his debts.


    Liu''s Father did not have much experience. He was so easily frightened away by Pei JianGuo��s nonsense ramblings. Since then, he never came again, afraid that Pei JianGuo would ask him for money instead.


    Groping his way into the bedroom, it was still pitch-dark, but a bulging lump could be vaguely seen on the bed.


    Liu Chunhua was not fat to begin with, but she was slender and curved. In addition, her seldom going out kept her skin fair as snow, making her a beautiful yet pathetic woman.


    Pei JianGuo turned on the light in the bedroom. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he could vaguely hear sobsing from under the quilt.


    He patted her shoulderfortingly and asked, "Is it because my mother said something to you again? Don''t be sad. She doesn''te often anyway. My mother is just like that, sharp tongue but soft hearted. We��ll just live our own life and pretend not to hear whatever she says."


    From his tone of speaking, it could be heard that Wang Yueing over to find fault for no reason was also quitemon. He knew it well in his heart. It was just that between his mother and his wife, he chose to wrong his wife.


    The impression Liu Chunhua gave him was that she seldom cried or made trouble. Even if she was a little moody, she could be easily soothed.


    This time, instead of wiping away her tears to say it was fine, Liu Chunhua lifted the quilt and threw herself into his arms, sobbing unceasingly.


    "What''s wrong?" Pei JianGuo was a little panicked. Apart from when she was hospitalized for her miscarriage, he had never seen her in such a sorry state.


    She understood him very well, knowing that he disliked trouble. Therefore, even if she was wronged, she would tidy up her mood very quickly so as not to annoy him.


    "JianGuo, I feel so bad, I feel so bad..." Liu Chunhua sobbed.


    "What on earth happened?" Pei JianGuo''s brows were already furrowed with impatience. He was in a bad mood to begin with when he came home, and now it was even more depressing.


    "You know my body has always been kind of abnormal. Today I went to the hospital for a checkup. The doctor said... The doctor said I damaged my body from thest miscarriage and didn��t recuperate well afterwards. It��s possible that I won''t be able to conceive anymore in the future... woo woo..." Liu Chunhua stammered out before crying even harder.


    There was a sh of remorse in Pei JianGuo''s eyes.


    Liu Chunhua''sst miscarriage was also his fault.


    "JianGuo, I can''t have children anymore. I''m an abnormal woman. I''m so scared, so scared that you won''t want me anymore. You won''t abandon me, right?"


    Pei JianGuo came back to his senses and hurriedly held her in his arms. "Foolish, what nonsense are you talking about? How could I not want you? We are husband and wife. We have to spend our whole life together."


    For Pei JianGuo, this was a win-win situation.


    He already had a son. At first he was reluctant to have children with Liu Chunhua because he himself was uncertain about how far they could go. Later, when he thoroughly understood Liu Chunhua��s personality, he really had the idea of just living like this in the future.


    It was just that family nning had already been implemented at that time. As a civil servant, he could only have one child ording to regtions. Although PingAn did not live with him, his household registration was still under him. If he wanted another child, he had to quit his job.

 Chapter 393: The Inescapable Clutches of 0393

    <h4>Chapter 393</h4>


    Pei JianGuo, even as muddled as he was, could still clearly distinguish the rtive importance of things. Without work, unless he wanted to go drink the northwest wind, he had no choice.


    But Liu Chunhua didn''t know, or wouldn''t bother to care about such things. She only wholeheartedly wanted a child of her own.


    In her heart, without a child to hold them together, her rtionship with Pei JianGuo would always be unstable. What if when she grew old and lost her looks, or ifter on when he was old his son drove her away? She was afraid she would only be able to tragically die on the streets.


    Even if life was hard and poor, she had to have her own child.


    After much reassuring, Liu Chunhua finally gradually stopped crying.


    Pei JianGuo didn''t look the slightest bit upset, but rather felt somewhat relieved.


    She had already said she didn''t n on having any more children. And since it was his fault she miscarried, and now he wouldn''t let her have a child, he always felt a little guilty deep down.


    But she couldn''t get pregnant. He still felt guilty, but also felt a sense of relief.


    Don''t me him for being so selfish. He would treat her well in the future. He would treat her well for a lifetime.


    Holding the doctor��s diagnosis that had been prescribed to Liu Chunhua, Pei JianGuo didn''t even notice she had gone to an unknown small clinic. Furthermore, what was written was that the chances of getting pregnant were low, not that she absolutely could not get pregnant.


    This was also a contingency n Liu Chunhua had long thought of. That way, even if she did get pregnantter, when Pei JianGuo went to the doctor, her path would not bepletely cut off.


    In the next few days, Pei JianGuo was even better to Liu Chunhua, and even started learning to do some housework, and was also more generous with money, just to make up for his faults against her.


    Liu Chunhua also breathed a sigh of relief. These past few days, except for when he was working, he had been home the whole time. He probably hadn''t gone to take contraceptives.


    ...


    Pei Jing spent a few more days at home apanying Zhi Xia, and she also tried her best to adjust her state of mind. Although the days together were extremely blissful, she couldn��t keep him at home apanying her forever.


    Since Grandma had moved to An JingZhi��s ce, Zhi Xia also went over there more diligently.


    Ever since Grandpa passed away, Grandma��s health had deteriorated. Zhi Xia was really afraid that one day she would be gone too, so she could only take advantage of the time she had to apany her more, so as not to leave behind regrets.


    This year Hongfeng Appliancesunched two new products, a hair dryer and a TV. Zhi Xia provided the technology for the R&D department to study. And the two foreigners in the R&D department were also very capable. Under mary incentives, although they were still arrogant people, they also did their best.


    And the two people who had been arranged to secretly study were also learning quickly. She believed they would be able to graduate before too long.


    With Jiang Tao stationed there, Zhi Xia didn��t need to spend too much effort.


    The only thing troubling now was Hu Zhou��s side.


    After returning from Shen City, although he had Miss Yans dividends, even if he did nothing for a lifetime there was enough to squander, as a grown man being idle always made him feel ufortable.


    Zhi Xia could also see that during the few times he hade to find her recently, he was trying to think of something to do, but the few ideas he came up with, Zhi Xia felt were not very reliable.


    And at this time, Jincheng Daily reported a shocking big event.


    The Hong Kong businessman who had won the bid for the real estate tender ran away because the first batch ofmercial housing could not be sold out. This made things difficult for the government side.


    The policies handed down by higher authorities were notpleted. And because the real estate developer that won the bid did not cooperate, resulting in the change from a shopping mall tomercial housing, and now the person had also run away with the houses left unsold, leaving such a mess behind, just thinking about it made one��s scalp tingle.


    For a time, everything was thrown into chaos.


    After a brief integration, the government decided to open up bidding again.


    But with the previous failure as an example, and themercial housing from the first phase having already beenpleted, and it not being possible to demolish and rebuild, after all the losses would be too great, there were not many candidates participating in the bidding this time. Even the people the government side had contacted were politely refusing left and right. They simply didn��t want to get involved.


    Emerging industries were like this. Once there was a sessful example to follow, others would soon emte it. Just like appliance factories, there were already quite a few people following suit. But the difference was that they took the path Zhi Xia had originallyid out, importing parts from abroad for assembly. This not only increased costs, but also held their lifeline in someone else��s hands.


    The difficulty with the real estate industry was that themercial housing from the first phase had already been built. To take over now, they would have to take over those unsold houses as well.


    Zhi Xia called Hu Zhou over to discuss views on this matter.


    And Hu Zhou was no longer meeting Zhi Xia for the first time. For her proposal, he agreed without even thinking about it.


    He had raised doubts about her ideas before, but clearly, every time he had been brutally pped in the face, and she had told him with results just how correct Zhi Xia��s decisions were.


    He was currently in a state of confusion. Impatient to begin with, now with someone pointing the way, whether the path led anywhere or not, he definitely wanted to give it a try.


    Pei JianGuo, who had been sitting on the bench for a long time in the Construction Bureau, was called into the director''s office.


    He sat uneasily across from the director, and heard the other party say, "Comrade Pei, I assume you''ve heard about the construction of the city centernd?"


    "I''ve heard," Pei JianGuo said rather apprehensively, mainly because he didn''t know what this matter had to do with him.


    But he knew in his heart that the director would not call him in for no reason to talk about these things.


    "You��ve been with our bureau for some time now. I��ll get straight to the point..."


    When he came out of the director''s office, Pei JianGuo''s face was ash-colored.


    For others, this might be a very good opportunity to render meritorious service, but he knew better than anyone what the situation was between him and An ZhiXia.


    He didn��t necessarily mind lowering his head to look for her help, the key was that he wasn��t sure if she would give him the time of day.


    It wasn��t as if there was any deep hatred between them, just some trivial matters, as well as the issue with Gao Qingcheng.


    He suspected that fate was deliberately messing with him. He had been working very hard to live properly, so how could he escape An ZhiXia��s clutches?


    His head was full of thoughts, but he couldn��t ovee the coercion of reality.


    He could only hope that An ZhiXia would be magnanimous, and see that the matter was long past, and that she had already pressed him down. At the very least, to give him a little face and not make things too ugly.

 Chapter 394: 394 Apologies

    <h4>Chapter 394</h4>


    Pei Jianguo arrived at the entrance of the Zhixia family''s house with an anxious heart, coincidentally seeing Ping An about toe out.


    Ping An was wearing new clothes that Zhixia had just bought for him. Pei Yong, being a grown man who had experienced hardship, adhered to the principle of raising a boy to be tough. As long as he had enough food and warm clothes to wear, it was sufficient.


    He was afraid of raising a boy who would be as pampered as Pei Jianguo.


    Little did Pei Jianguo himself suspect that he had be someone disliked by everyone.


    Guo Momo had always kept in touch with Ping An and took care of his food and clothing. Even in her treatment of Pei Yong, her former father-inw, she did so without any shorings. This point deserved some praise.


    Of course, everyone knew that she was only doing it for the sake of Ping An''s face.


    But Zhixia was Ping An''s elder, and since the child went to their house every day and had practically grown up under their care, he wasn''t much different from their own child. So, whenever she bought things for the children, she habitually included something for Ping An.


    Fortunately, Ping An was diligent, ambitious, and polite, surpassing his parents by a great deal.


    "Ping An..." Pei Jianguo''s eyes lit up when he saw Ping Aning out, and he pulled him aside. "Did you go to y with your uncle again? Is your third grandmother at home?"


    Ping An was aware of the unpleasant situation between his father and third grandmother. Moreover, now that he had reached a sensible age, he was more cautious. "Why are you asking me about my third grandmother?"


    He knew very well that his father hadn''t visited his third grandmother''s house for a year or two. Previously, he used to visit his grandfather''s house quite often, but now those visits had be rare.


    As for himself, whether he visited or not, it didn''t matter. He had many people who cared for him, so it wasn''t a big deal to have one unimportant father less. These were all things his cousin taught him.


    "What else can I do? Of course, I''m here to apologize. I was immature in the past, but who doesn''t make mistakes? Besides, your third grandfather has already reprimanded me." Pei Jianguo recalled the seemingly inconspicuous kick from his younger brother that had directly broken two of his ribs. He couldn''t help but wonder if his brother was too strong or if he himself was too fragile.


    Pei Jianguo sighed and continued, "Don''t worry, I''m really not here to cause trouble. The past is in the past. I''m not a child who holds grudges. In the end, we''re family, regardless of any past conflicts. Even if bones are broken, the tendons are still connected. I''ve genuinelye to apologize, and you can see that I have something in my hand. Just tell me, is your third grandmother at home?"


    Ping An looked at the things in Pei Jianguo''s hand, a bag with two cans and a bag of apples. It didn''t really look like he was here to cause trouble.


    He pursed his lips and said, "My third grandmother is at home. Let''s go together."


    Although he always felt that he didn''t care about Pei Jianguo, every time others mentioned how inappropriate his father was, he couldn''t help but feel ufortable.


    Especially when he heard about the things his father had done, he always felt a sense of guilt when facing his third grandmother.


    He wondered whether or not Third Grandma would forgive him, but at least he had the awareness toe and apologize in person, which indicated that he recognized his own mistakes.


    Perhaps from now on, he wouldn''t feel embarrassed by having a father like that.


    Fortunately, Pei Jianguo couldn''t guess what PingAn was thinking. Otherwise, with his arrogant nature, he would probably just want to teach that brat a lesson.


    PingAn was quite surprised by Pei Jianguo''s arrival.


    There had always been constant conflicts between them, but it seemed like Pei Jianguo had a selective memory. Every time he offended someone, he always acted as if it wasn''t a big deal.


    After Pei Jing hit himst time, he hadn''te back in these two years, which PingAn was delighted about.


    But she also knew that Pei Jianguo only held a grudge against her. He didn''te here, but he always went to Pei Yong''s ce whenever Pei Jing came back.


    For Pei Jianguo, Pei Jing''s existence was also quite special.


    Pei Yong rarely came back during his childhood. At that time, Wang Yue was very fierce, and Second Uncle and Grandfather didn''t want to deal with her when they were angry.


    Only Pei Jing wasn''t afraid of Wang Yue, and sometimes he could even infuriate her. Old Master also enjoyed watching this scene unfold because Wang Yue couldn''t possibly beat up Pei Jing, and of course, she was no match for him.


    Regarding this little uncle, Pei Jianguo''s attitude was probably a mix of envy and inferiority.


    He truly wanted to live his life like Pei Jing but constantly trapped himself in his own cowardice.


    It seemed like Pei Jianguo really only came to apologize, leave something behind, and then he would leave after a while.


    One shouldn''t bite the hand that feeds them. PingAn, as an elder, couldn''t possibly throw his things out.


    However, afterward, he woulde almost every day. To prevent him from finding her absent, he always arrived around mealtime or in the evening. He would say a few words and stay for a while, making PingAn wonder what he was really up to.


    If someone said he had no ulterior motives, PingAn definitely wouldn''t believe it.


    After Pei Jianguo came to visit again, PingAn became impatient with his feigned politeness and directly asked him, "If you have something to say, just say it. You don''t need toe here every day and y these deceptive games. You know better than anyone else the rtionship between us. Since I married your little uncle, you''ve never looked at me favorably. And it hasn''t changed until now, Pei Jianguo. You show great respect to your little uncle, even to our children, but it''s undeniable that you''ve never wanted us to live peacefully."


    The smile on Pei Jianguo''s face froze instantly because he couldn''t deny that PingAn''s words struck a chord within him.


    Until now, he had always believed that this woman wasn''t worthy of his little uncle. His little uncle had never shown interest in women before, and their marriage was rushed. He was certain that she had used some improper means to force it.


    As for now, their seemingly affectionate rtionship, who could say that it wasn''t his little uncle enduring it for the sake of the children?


    After all, his father had done the same thing back then.


    The only difference was that An ZhiXia was smarter than her mother. Her mother always wanted to control the whole family, which eventually led to losing everything. On the other hand, An ZhiXia knew how to handle children, subtly and gently capturing the heart of her little brother-inw.


    "You''re right. I''ve never had a good impression of you, and I''ve even refused to acknowledge you as my brother-inw''s wife. But, Sister-inw, even though I may say some unpleasant things when I''m impulsive and irritable, I have never intended to harm you both in my actions," Pei JianGuo said in a deep voice.


    "Exactly. That''s why I haven''t kicked you out. However, it''s clear that our rtionship hasn''t reached the point where youe to see me every day. So, let''s speak frankly without beating around the bush and wasting everyone''s time," An ZhiXia smiled and said.


    "Then I''ll be straightforward," Pei JianGuo stated his purpose and the task his superiors had assigned him. Suddenly, he felt much more rxed.


    These past few days, it hadn''t only been ufortable for An ZhiXia but also for himself.


    If it were a few years ago, he might have directly shown his displeasure, even if it meant not doing his job. But people grow, and he was already in his thirties.


    His father avoided him, his mother was getting older, and his younger sister was still fooling around without settling down.


    He was no longer the impulsive and easily angered young man he used to be; he had to start considering the consequences of his actions.


    After finishing his words, he fellpletely silent, feeling somewhat anxious about the future.


    The consequences of being middle-aged and unemployed were not something anyone could bear.


    He had nothing now, and the only thing he could rely on was his job.


    But An ZhiXia wouldn''t be able to sacrifice so much for his job. Even if it were him, it would be impossible.


    An ZhiXia didn''t rush to reply because she hadn''t expected that Pei JianGuo''s intention was this.


    Just as she was dozing off, someone brought a pillow to her.


    The significance of the Construction Bureau actively seeking her help anding to her personally was definitely different.


    "I need to consider this matter. After all, it won''t work to take over this mess without enough funds. I believe you understand this, and I can''t just agree without considering what kind of preferential policies your side can offer and the costs involved," An ZhiXia said.


    Pei JianGuo looked up in surprise.


    He had already prepared himself for An ZhiXia''s refusal and had begun thinking about what to do after losing his job. But he never expected that she would actually consider it.


    "Are you really considering taking over? You''re not just fooling with me, right?" He couldn''t believe that he had actually obtained the result he wanted.


    "Do you think I have so much free time to fool around?" An ZhiXia teased. She didn''t have that kind of spare time.


    "Why... why would you consider it?" Pei JianGuo asked.


    An ZhiXia smiled and replied, "Pei JianGuo, when you think about it, haven''t you always been targeting me? When have I ever intentionally caused you trouble? Regardless of whether you admit it or not, since you called me ''little sister-inw,'' that means I am your elder. Now that you''re seeking my help, if there''s anything I can do, I will naturally assist you. However, as you know, everything must be within my capabilities. Whether I can help you or not will also depend on the favorable policies from the government. I can''t risk bankrupting myself just to assist you, right?"


    "Don''t worry about that. I will talk to the leaders and ensure you receive the maximum benefits. We will also try to cooperate with theter stages of the project," Pei JianGuo impulsively promised. But after saying that, he hesitated, "However, regarding theter stages of the project, I hope you can cooperate with the ns from our bureau. It was developed through the collective efforts of many people and is undoubtedly the most suitable for the initial development of the city. After all, you also know why the previous person ran away, right?"


    He was afraid that An ZhiXia would be as arrogant as that Hong Kong businessman and insist on doing things her own way. If things didn''t work out and she suffered losses, he would bear the me. It would create an unfavorable situation for both sides.


    Although he wasn''t very clever, he had been in this line of work for many years and understood the basic strategies.


    "Alright, I will cooperate with you, and I hope you can cooperate with me as much as possible," An ZhiXia said.


    "Then I''ll go back and prepare the documents. I will give them to you within two days."


    After leaving the premises, Pei JianGuo let out a sigh of relief.


    He never expected that what seemed like an extremely difficult situation, akin to being caught between a rock and a hard ce, would be resolved so easily.


    Although An ZhiXia only agreed to consider it, he believed that once she saw the policies for theter stages of the project, she would be convinced.


    Back at the bureau, Pei JianGuo quickly reported to his superiors and, as expected, received a round of praise. He was even promised a promotion if he sessfully handled this matter.


    The next two days were probably the busiest time in Pei JianGuo''s life, and it was the first time he had such enthusiasm for a task.


    On An ZhiXia''s side, she also became busy with the preparations. To take over theter stages of the project, it wasn''t enough to rely solely on policies. She had to first assemble a team for the construction.


    She quickly made a n, and with Hu Zhou, who had learned a lot during his years with Wu Lei, they had the necessary execution and adaptability.


    Pei JianGuo''s arrogance wasn''t entirely without benefits because of An ZhiXia''s words. He genuinely believed that she was helping him out of familial duty, so he put in extra effort for this matter. He provided maximum support in terms of preferential policies and other aspects.


    At the same time, because An ZhiXia was someone he rmended, he was given full responsibility for the project by the Bureau of Construction.


    Jian''an Group was established in May 1986.


    With both parties aiming for the same goal of construction, An ZhiXia cooperated with the requirements of the Bureau of Construction and nned to invest in and build a shopping mall. She also secured the rights to nearbynd from the bureau.


    Pei Wanqing, thergest investor and chairman of Jian''an Group, still holds the positions of both major shareholders of Jiaoyan and Hongfeng under the Jian''an Group. Meanwhile, Hu Zhou is responsible for real estate development and holds a 40% stake as the secondrgest shareholder, based on the investment amount.


    "Mom, I won''t being home for dinner tonight. A ssmate invited me to her house for her birthday." Pei Wanqing has made new friends recently, and to prevent a recurrence of the previous incident, Zhi Xia took the opportunity of her birthday to invite all the ssmates she gets along well with to celebrate at their home.


    This has also sparked a trend among their group, as they would be invited to celebrate when others have their birthdays.


    "Alright, I got it. Whose birthday is it? I''ll have your younger brother go pick you upter in the evening," Zhi Xia inquired.


    "No need for that. I''lle back early," Pei Wanqing replied cheerfully and ran off.


    "This girl," Zhi Xia smiled helplessly.


    Fortunately, Pei Wanqing has some self-defense skills, although not as impressive as her older and younger brothers, she can still protect herself, so there''s no need to worry too much.


    Children grow up and inevitably leave the shelter of their parents'' wings.


    Just like Chenye, after the college entrance examination, it was time for university, and now it takes several months before they can see each other again.


    Although Pei Wanqing said so, Zhi Xia still had Chen Ze pick her up. It''s not safe for a girl to walk alone at night.


    Thirteen-year-old Chen Ze has also grown taller and has a handsome appearance, which makes his ssmates envy him greatly.


    Pei Wanqing is really lucky. She has a twin brother who is good-looking and smart, known as the "academic genius," and several handsome and considerate younger brothers.


    Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, Pei Wanqing will soon face the college entrance examination.

 Chapter 395: 395 All Have Their Own Thing to Do

    <h4>Chapter 395</h4>


    A couple of days ago, Pei Jing had already returned, just to prepare for his daughter''s college entrance examination and cheer her on. This was a treatment that Chenye did not get when he took the exam.


    Before dawn, Pei Jing was already up, waking up Wanqing who was still fast asleep.


    "It''s still early, why are you getting up so early?" It was even earlier than when he usually worked out.


    "No reason, you can go back to sleep, I''ll just go take a look outside." He just vaguely saw that there was still some light outside.


    Opening the door and going out, sure enough, it was Wanqing''s room.


    Pei Jing walked to her door and saw a figure moving around inside. Making sure she was not sleeping, he raised his hand and knocked on the door.


    The door opened, and a sleepy-eyed Wanqing asked, "Dad, why are you knocking on my door in the middle of the night?"


    "I should be asking you, the college entrance exam is tomorrow, why aren''t you resting well and getting up so early to pace around in your room?" Pei Jing stroked her head indulgently, grumbling unhappily.


    Wanqing looked up speechlessly, wronged. "I wanted to rest well too, but I don''t know why, probably because I was made nervous by those ssmates yesterday. They got me feeling strangely nervous too. I had nightmares all night that I didn''t get admitted, and then you allughed at me..."


    "What nonsense. They''re worried because their grades are bad. You''ve always been in the top few in your ss. If even you can''t get admitted, what hope do the others have?" Pei Jing was not worried about this at all. Moreover, Wanqing''s school was excellent. As the family''s only daughter, Knows Snow and Pei Jing did not want her to go too far, and had agreed early on to have her apply for Jin Cheng University.


    That way she could still be close to home. If she wanted independence she could live on campus, and if she wanted toe home she could.


    "Hehe..." Wanqing smiled awkwardly. She also didn''t know what she was nervous about. Anyway, the people around her were pretty nervous, she was probably affected. "Dad, I''ll sleep now. You should go back to bed too."


    "Go on, rest well. Dad will go buy your favorite crystal shrimp dumplingster."


    "But I want to eat the ones you make." Wanqing coaxed.


    "Then I''ll go ask your mom for shrimp now. When you wake up in the morning you''ll be able to eat them."


    The child was usually well behaved too. Rarely making demands, Pei Jing was happy to indulge her.


    Wanqing was moved but also felt quite embarrassed. "Won''t you be too tired?"


    "No, I''m thrilled my daughter is making requests of me." Pei Jing said.


    Knows Snow was woken up groggily by Pei Jing. After this she was not sleepy either, so the two of them simply got up and started busy.


    When Wanqing got up in the morning, she saw the freshly fried crystal shrimp dumplings, and was instantly moved to tears.


    "Dad, Mom, you guys are the best, I love you so much!"


    Little Six''s unwashed sleepy face blurted out, "Bootlicker!"


    Wanqing went over and grabbed his ear. "Pei Chenyou, what did you say? Itching for a beating?"


    "I said big sister is so pretty today, and smart, she''ll definitely get into her ideal university." Little Six ttered cleverly.


    "Not bad judgement." Wanqing only then let go of his ear.


    Seeing the siblings joking around, Knows Snow and Pei Jing looked at each other helplessly and shook their heads.


    "Hurry up and stop messing around, go wash up and eat, it won''t taste good when it gets cold." Knows Snow urged them.


    Wanqing had already tidied up and quickly brought the shrimp dumplings to the dining table, even saying deliberately, "I''m going to eat them all, won''t save any for certain brats."


    Little Six knew she meant him, but he was not afraid either, because he knew mom would definitely not bear to let him go hungry.


    After breakfast, Pei Jing and Knows Snow went with her to the exam site.


    Wanqing was still a little reluctant. Children this age were often like this, thinking themselves grown up already, and unwilling to let parents interfere with their matters.


    But the truth was, they were still far from truly grown up.


    True maturity was not about physical age, but emotional growth.


    She had been doted on by her family since she was little. Although already 15, she still had a childish temperament.


    Outside the exam site it was crowded with aspiring parents. No matter the era, there was never ack of parents thirsty for knowledge.


    Many people sent their kids then left, while many chose to linger outside the exam hall waiting.


    Pei Jing and Knows Snow chose to take a stroll nearby, thene back to pick her up when it was time. Waiting here the whole afternoon would be hard to endure.


    Wanqing and her ssmates came out of the exam hall together and threw themselves into their parents'' arms.


    They had already agreed not to ask the child how the exam went right away, but to take her out to y and rx first.


    When they got home, both Wanqing and Knows Snow felt like their legs were going to give out from tiredness, only Pei Jing still had ample energy to handle the sons, because they were unhappy about being left out of the day''s outing.


    Knows Snow went back to the room to rest, and had justin down on the bed when Wanqing came in.


    "Weren''t you justining your feet hurt?" Knows Snow suddenly reacted. "Sweetie, is there something you want to discuss with mom?"


    "Mom, I want to find some work to do with my ssmates this summer, what do you think?" Although she didn''t need to worry about money or school fees, quite a few ssmates were going. Two months was quite a long time, she found just staying home boring too, so she wanted to join them.


    Over the past two years, Chenye had also seldom asked the family for money. She was supportive of the children wanting to earn their own money.


    "Of course that''s fine, but do you girls have something specific in mind? Do you need mom''s help?"


    "Two of my ssmates want to work at your factory for two months, but me and two other ssmates said we wanted try doing some small business. We don''t need your help with that, we want to figure it out ourselves."


    Those ssmates of hers also came from well-off families. The three of them were notcking money, they mainly just wanted to enjoy the feeling of earning money themselves.


    If the adults helped, it wouldn''t truly be their own ability. That would defeat the purpose.


    "They might be too young to work in the factory, but there are small parts at the factory that can be taken home for assembly. You can ask them if they''re interested, I can arrange it for them if you girls do decide to start a business."


    Red Maple Electronics Factory usually had long-term workers. Things like taking parts home to assemble were not done before.


    But since the child brought it up in front of her, she could still help out a little.


    Moreover, she had met Wanqing''s ssmates before, they were good kids.


    "Thanks Mom! Then I''ll go rest first, you should rest up too." Wanqing''s fatigue was forgotten in her excitement. She bounced happily out the door, eager to tell her ssmates about it right away.


    Shortly after summer vacation started, Pei Jing took the triplets and Little Six away. Chenye also called to say he was busy with some things and would only be able toe back for a few days, probably telling Knows Snow not to make hime back if he was too busy, and they would go see him when they had time.


    Although Wanqing didn''t tell Knows Snow specifically what business they wanted to do, Knows Snow couldn''t really leave them to their own devices. She secretly investigated, while pretending on the surface not to know.

 Chapter 396: 396 Promotion and salary will fail

    <h4>Chapter 396</h4>


    "Wanqing, there are only you and Wanqing left in the family. You don''t evene home for lunch. I''m bored with nothing to do here all day, so I might as well take some time off these two months before the kidse back and I resume my duties of taking care you of you guys. What do you think?" Sister Zhang wasn''t the kind of person who liked to take advantage of others. It wasn''t right for her to just idle around here all day long while collecting wages. She felt bad about it herself.


    Wanqing thought since no one else was home, there really wasn''t much to do. If Sister Zhang stayed here by herself, she would be bored indeed. "Sister Zhang, why don''t we do this - I know we can''t leave this cepletely unattended. You getting bored here all day long makes sense. These two months, juste over and clean up every now and then. I''ll still pay your wages. What do you think?"


    With no one home, there was no need for Sister Zhang to grind it out here every day.


    What shecked during these two months wasn''t the wages. It was someone reliable whom she could leave the house to safely. Sister Zhang had been working here for years without any incidents. There was no need to lose one��s head over trivial things.


    "That won''t do. I don''t want the wages. You said I coulde clean up every now and then, and that works since I''d just be idling at home anyway." Even without the wages, Sister Zhang was very thankful to Wanqing.


    Back then, her daughter was set on going out to study hairdressing. Thankfully, she listened to Wanqing''s advice and stopped her daughter in time.


    Her daughter''s ssmate who was going to go with her still hadn''t contacted home after such a long time. No one knew what had happened to her.


    A perfectly good daughter raised until 17 or 18 years old, now missing without a trace. How distressed must her parents be?


    Not only that, Wanqing had also found her daughter a proper ce in Shen City where Wu Lei could look after her to study hairdressing. Now graduated, she had opened her own hair salon. Business was booming with her perms and dyes.


    "Sister Zhang, just listen to me..."


    It took Wanqing a while before she finally convinced the other party.


    The construction of the central mall was also nearingpletion. Built ording to government ns, but based on designs provided by Wanqing��s side.


    Overall, it had been very sessful.


    Even before itspletion, many merchants hade asking about it. Most stores were snatched up. Those remaining could be rented out for rental ie, which was pretty good too.


    Hu Zhou came over with the ns, "The restaurants on the 4th floor are full. We''ll operate the supermarket ourselves on the 1st floor. There are still quite a few vacant shops left on the 2nd and 3rd floors. Shall we turn the 3rd floor into more restaurants?"


    Although the central mall only had 4 floors, its floor area was huge. Having sold so many stores before even opening, they had exceeded expectations already.


    "It''s good as it is for now. Restaurants mainly rely on merchants. Whether they can survive depends on business after opening. Too many restaurants will lead to oversupply. That won''t be good for the mall either." Wanqing said, "Stick to the original ns for now. The merchants have all prepared to move in right? Can we open by end of June?"


    "No problem. They''re all renovating now. Definitely by then."


    "Good. Don''t forget to invite people from the government for the opening too. Also, restart pre-sales for the first batch of residential housing after the mall opens..."


    Getting in more foot traffic will make the nearby houses sell better too. Those with insight will understand.


    "Oh yes. Pay more attention to the government side recently too. If sales go well this time, we need to grasp the nextnd auction."


    "Shouldn''t need to worry about that. We have priority rights." That was the condition when they first took over. The government had agreed.


    Wanqing smiled, "Things change. Keep an eye out still."


    In the past, the government needed them so naturally they could make demands. Now the mall was built and store sales were good. They had profited a lot too. If residential sales went well too,nd prices here would definitely shoot up.


    Competition would be quite intense by then.


    Their original condition was only priority rights, not absolute. And it was only verbal.


    Going back on one''s word was easy, just a few words.


    Hu Zhou always listened to Wanqing. Things always worked out when he listened to her over the years.


    Everything went smoothly as ns started rolling out, business was doing exceptionally well too.


    At the same time, Pei Jianguo was also valued again by his superiors because of this. He had sessfully been promoted to deputy section chief at rank 22, two levels away from full section chief.


    Promotion and raise, things couldn''t be more joyous.


    Yet at such a critical juncture, like a bolt from the blue on a sunny day.


    Pei Jianguo held the hospital checkup report in his hands. His face was ghastly white as he asked Liu Chunhua, "Could the results be wrong? Didn''t they say you can''t conceivest time? How did you get...get pregnant?"


    "And at such timing too. This is fatal!" Pei Jianguo had just gotten promoted. ording to family nning policies, public servants could only have one child. He hadn''t even gotten over the excitement of his promotion yet before this issue of illegal second child popped up. Would he even keep his job now?


    "No, we can''t keep this child. Must get rid of it." Pei Jianguo pulled Liu Chunhua and went out the door, "Chunhua, listen to me. We can''t keep this child. I''ll be out of a job then. We''ll be eating the bitter winds. Come with me to abort it at the hospital now."


    He had to question that doctor who checked her too. How could he have missed something like this?


    Someone already diagnosed to be infertile getting pregnant now. Did he think they were still in the old days where you could just pop out kids whenever?


    Liu Chunhua struggled free of his hand, looking at him pleadingly as she shrank away, "JianGuo, I''m begging you. Let''s keep this child, okay? It''s already 5 months along. I can feel it moving in my belly. And my body is ruined. If I lose it, I may not be able to have my own child ever again in this lifetime. Please spare me some pity. Keep it for me. I''m a woman too. I want to be a mother too..."


    If she didn''t truly want to keep this child, how could she have deceived him? How could she have hidden her pregnancy for 5 months before telling him?


    Stroking her slightly bulging belly, Liu Chunhua thought firmly to herself that no matter what, she would not abandon her child.


    This child was different from her previous one. She had desperately fought to keep this one that she loved concieving with the man she loved.


    She didn''t fear hardship. Hadn''t she endured enough already? Even if they went hungry and cold, as long as she could bear him a child, someone to rely on, she would be content.

 Chapter 397: 397 is Calculating.

    <h4>Chapter 397</h4>


    But it was obvious that Pei JianGuo, who already had a son named PingAn, did not think the same way she did.


    Pei JianGuo pped his own forehead twice, trying his best to calm himself down. Then he went to reason with Liu Chunhua, "Chunhua, I know you want a child, but the policy is right there. If we have this child, I will lose my job. I''m already over 30 years old, almost 40. Neither of us has much savings. If I really lose my job, it will be a problem just to put food on the table. Can you try to understand me?"


    "I understand you, but I really want a child, woo woo..." Liu Chunhua cried inconsbly with tears brimming her eyes. She looked up at him pleadingly, "JianGuo, could it be that you got it wrong? Although you already have PingAn, I haven''t given birth yet. No matter how strict the family nning policy is, it can''t be entirely unreasonable, right? Otherwise... ask again?"


    She took Pei JianGuo''s hand and put it on her belly, guiding him, "JianGuo, feel it, he can move now..."


    This time it was Pei JianGuo who jerked his hand away, "I already told you we cannot have the child. Liu Chunhua, are you unable to understand me? When we got our marriage certificate, I told you I didn''t want children and you agreed. Since you promised, you can''t just easily go back on your word. Don''t you know that?"


    Liu Chunhua stared nkly at him, falling silent for the moment.


    Pei JianGuo went to coax her again, "Chunhua, be good. I won''t shortchange you. Tomorrow I''ll take time off to bring you to the hospital, listen to me."


    Liu Chunhua had always known that what he liked about her was her obedient and sensible nature. She was also good at utilizing this point. So after they married, the two had never had any disputes.


    This was the first time that a rift emerged between them over the issue of children. It was also a line Liu Chunhua desperately did not want to back down from.


    But at the same time, she also knew that she could not resist him.


    Or rather, she did not have any capital to resist Pei JianGuo at all.


    This marriage was something she had schemed her way into, using the child that had stayed in her body for several months to make Pei JianGuo feel guilty about her.


    But because of this, she felt an abnormal sense of unease in her heart.


    Pei JianGuo had always told her that as a civil servant, he could not have a second child, otherwise he would lose his job. She had always believed it to be so.


    She also knew how strict the family nning policy enforcement was. So she had never dared to ask questions, only recently hearing from others at the hospital that while it was true civil servants could not have a second child, there were also some special circumstances.


    For example, in cases where both parties were remarrying and the woman had not given birth before, they could have one more child.


    From the moment she learned this fact, her whole body turned ice-cold.


    She also felt very guilty for scheming against Pei JianGuo in the past. So she did her utmost to be good to him, but never expected that while she was scheming against him, she had also fallen into his trap.


    What was even more frightening was that in this rtionship, she was the weaker party. So she did not even have the courage to expose him. She could only act weak and plead with him.


    She believed that after living together for so long, Pei JianGuo should also have some feelings for her. Since the child already existed, he should not be so heartless as to want her to abort it.


    But the fact proved that she had been far too naive about everything.


    This man seemed indecisive on the surface but was actually quite heartless. This point could be seen from the number of wives he had married and divorced.


    Liu Chunhua allowed herself to be helped inside by Pei JianGuo. That night Pei JianGuo was extremely gentle with her. He took the initiative to doundry and cook. He even whispered into her ears sweet nothings he had never said before.


    Despite knowing that all this was done with an agenda, Liu Chunhua''s heart still shamefully stirred with emotion.


    She had always led a miserable life. It was only during her time with Pei JianGuo that she finally understood what happiness felt like.


    Although he was not especially good either, being schemed for and obtained through her own efforts probably made things different. Also because he was so handsome. Even if she asionally felt vexed, just looking at his face and thinking about having such an outstanding man that those vige girls could not get ess to their entire lives made her feel it was all worthwhile.


    Pregnant women tended to fatigue easily with intense mood swings. After eating something, Liu Chunhua soon fell asleep.


    Pei JianGuo however quietly got up and went to hide alone in the living room, vacantly gazing up at the ceiling with a dazed look.


    One cigarette after another, soon the entire living room became filled with smoke, mirroring the turmoil and hesitation in his heart.


    After Gao Qingcheng, he had not yet recovered from the bewilderment back then when Liu Chunhua entered his life.


    At the time, he thought he would just go with it. After all, what did it matter who he married or even whether he remarried at this point in his wretched life?


    This woman was beautiful and not very clever, without any other reliance and easy to control.


    She did not have Guo Momo��s independence and fortitude, nor Lu Keqin��s influential family background, much less Gao Qingcheng��s ambition.


    At the same time, she would care for him and wait on him.


    Even without feelings between them, the days they spent living together were stillfortable and happy. He felt content.


    Just living out the rest of his days like this did not seem too bad either.


    Regarding having children, he really did not want any more.


    He barely participated in raising PingAn up. He knew he was not and could never be a good father.


    He felt his life was already such a pathetic mess. He did not want to bring another child into this world to also live his kind of life in the future.


    So he kept telling Liu Chunhua, and he kept telling himself��it was not that he was unwilling to give her a child; the policy simply did not allow it.


    She had clearly epted it too. So how did such an ident suddenly happen?


    Despite seeming so firm in persuading Liu Chunhua, Pei JianGuo��s own heart was actually in turmoil. He did not know what he should do.


    His father already said he would not meddle anymore. His mother was unreliable. His younger sister had also always been ky these past few years. Now in her thirties, she still had not settled down. He heard she recently hooked up with a divorced painter.


    This was also why Wang Yue had not had the time to participate in Pei JianGuo��s life recently, giving Liu Chunhua a period of peace andfort.


    Sometimes Pei JianGuo felt as if he was cursed. Including his parents and younger sister, they were all stuck in a dead end, unable to break free.


    Sometimes he would think back to the Taoist master they met back when he was with Gao Qingcheng. That master said he was fated to have a fulfilling life with a harmonious family and sessful career��to be wealthy and enjoy prestige and power in his middle age years. It was because someone had seized his life��s fortune and destiny that his fated superior life became miserable and chaotic instead.


    But whenever Pei JianGuo thought the one who was supposed to be his destined wife was An ZhiXia, cold chills ran through his entire body.


    He would have believed it if the name was anyone else��s. But the thought of being together with An ZhiXia made him shudder involuntarily.


    And regarding his uncle, although there were conflicts between them, he still firmly believed that as long as he did not act recklessly, his uncle would not harm him.


    He had held fast to this belief since he was little, though he did not know where this belief came from.


    Pei JianGuo lost count of how many cigarettes he had gone through. All he knew was he could no longer find another one in the house. He also did not know when he had passed out on the living room sofa. When he woke up, it was already bright outside.

 Chapter 398: 398 Know Yourself

    <h4>Chapter 398</h4>


    He stood up, lowered his head, and saw his own wrinkled clothes with a lingering unpleasant smell on him.


    Pei JianGuo felt disgusted and went to take a shower. When he came back to the room, he realized Liu Chunhua was not there.


    He panicked for a moment, hurriedly put on his clothes and went out, only to see Liu Chunhua walking in with breakfast.


    "You''re done with your shower. I made breakfast. Eat something," Liu Chunhua said with red eyes and a slightly weak, hoarse voice. She looked pitiful.


    Pei JianGuo also felt he was being unreasonable.


    He avoided her gaze awkwardly and took the initiative to help bring the dishes. "Don''t busy yourself. Sit down and eat first. I''ll go ask for leave from work after this. Wait for me at home."


    They both knew clearly what he was asking leave for.


    Liu Chunhua did not speak and lowered her head sitting at the table. Pei JianGuo looked at her and was still determined.


    The two ate breakfast in silence. Neither took the initiative to speak and Liu Chunhua did not beg anymore.


    Pei JianGuo thought she had given up and tidied himself up, pushing his bike out.


    He rode fast all the way, half panicking and half venting his frustration.


    He was doing well at work recently so it was easy for him to ask for leave.


    But when he returned home, Liu Chunhua was nowhere to be seen.


    In the room, two of her outfits were missing. A small part of the money at home had been taken, while most was still kept in its original ce.


    Initially, Pei JianGuo was the one keeping all the money at home. He only gave her some living expenses every month. It was justst year that he felt he could really spend his whole life with this woman, so he had be more lenient.


    Since they did not have children, to reassure her, he kept half his sry to himself and gave the other half to Liu Chunhua.


    Anyway, she did not know exactly how much he earned, and thought that was all he had, fully trusting him.


    But who would have expected this to happen this year.


    Pei JianGuo leaned powerlessly against the cab door, feeling extremely helpless.


    As usual, Pei Yong made breakfast early in the morning and PingAn was sitting at the table early.


    After eating, PingAn shouldered his schoolbag to go to school while Pei Yong tidied up, also about to head out.


    Unexpectedly, Liu Chunhua suddenly barged in from outside with a small bundle on her back. She knelt on the ground begging for help, "Dad, please save me. Please save your grandson. I''m begging you. You''re the only one who can save me now..."


    Regarding this daughter-inw, Pei Yong made noment. He had told Pei JianGuo long ago that he would no longer meddle in his matters.


    If Liu Chunhua wanted to visit, Pei Yong would not drive her out. If she said she did not want toe, Pei Yong would not force her.


    After all, he alone had limited ability. It was already difficult enough for him to raise PingAn, and he really could not spare any more effort to manage other things, let alone someone''s whole life.


    Although he spoke like this, seeing Liu Chunhua run in and kneel before him still gave Pei Yong a headache.


    "Stop crying first and get up to sit down. Speak properly." Pei Yong felt he really could not handle women, no matter what kind.


    The troublesomeness of Wang Yue had gued him for the first half of his life. He admired Guo MoMo''s independence and strength, but this weak and ipetent type like Liu Chunhua made his scalp tingle.


    Following his words, Liu Chunhua got up sniffling and sat on a stool nearby.


    After hearing her exin the reason behind this, Pei Yong lowered his head in silence for a long time.


    In the end, he could only steel his heart and sigh helplessly, "I remember when you first visited me after getting married, I had told you that my son was not someone who could live a proper life. His previous two marriages did not go well either, so I asked you to consider carefully before making a decision."


    He still remembered how ugly Pei JianGuo''s expression was when he said those words.


    But still, he had to make things clear to avoid harming the youngdy.


    Pei Yong also remembered Liu Chunhua''s reply at that time. "I like JianGuo and I''m confident I can have a good life with him. His past was not kept from me either. I knew about it, but I believe that was not his fault."


    Shit tastes terrible but she insisted it was fragrant. Pei Yong could not do anything about it.


    "Dad..." Pei Yong''s words clearly shocked Liu Chunhua. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she pleaded, "You can''t just ignore this. I''m begging you. The child in my belly is your grandson too. You''ve raised PingAn for so many years. You can''t be biased now. I''m only asking you to save him, to let me keep this child. I promise I won''t cause you any trouble..."


    If promises were useful, Pei Yong felt his life would not have turned out like this.


    Moreover, one had to bear the consequences of one''s own choices.


    He had advised against it but no one listened. He was helpless too.


    If he could choose again, he would rather have betrayed them. Even if everyone condemned him, at least he would be by himself for life.


    Parenting was not easy. It was wrong to meddle and also wrong not to.


    He could not even meddle properly. His son might still resent him saying, you knew clearly I was wrong then, why didn''t you beat me? Why didn''t you tie me up? You just watched as I lived like this, yet you me me now for not listening to you back then?


    Would he not have resented it if Pei Yong really beat or tied him up?


    He still would have.


    Some people never med themselves, feeling it was always other people''s fault. So meddling or not was always wrong.


    Now Pei Yong was more open-minded. He willingly took PingAn on himself and the boy was clever and sensible without his father''s ws. He was willing to raise PingAn.


    As for other things, like he said, he really could not manage them and did not want to either.


    Liu Chunhua wept there. Pei Yong also could not leave her alone at home. He could only sit there listening to her cry.


    This was the scene Pei JianGuo saw when he arrived.


    Liu Chunhua sobbed sorrowfully while Pei Yong sat across from her, staring nkly at the main entrance.


    He seemed to know Pei JianGuo woulde. Upon seeing him, Pei Yong simply stood up and said, "Since you''re here, discuss your matters between yourselves. I have to go to work. I''mte already."


    Pei Yong walked past Pei JianGuo calmly, leaving him feeling dejected.


    At this moment, how Pei JianGuo hoped he would scold or even hit him!


    But the reality was he truly did not want to meddle anymore. He was not joking or scaring him.


    Perhaps he had disappointed him too much.


    Only the two of them were left in the house. Liu Chunhua was even more nervous seeing Pei JianGuo who had rushed here. Her eyes were badly swollen from crying.


    Pei JianGuo did not urge her and just sat beside her silently. The two confronted each other this way.


    Liu Chunhua had to concede. Covering her belly with one hand, she said, "I''m sorry, really sorry. I didn''t mean to either but I just can''t bear to... JianGuo..."


    "I thought we were clear initially. Chunhua, I''m the one who''s too selfish. After having a son, I shouldn''t deprive you of the right to be a mother either. If you really want a child, then go. I''ll give you all the money at home, aspensation, for Pei JianGuo wronging you."


    After Gao Qingcheng, he did not have much desire for women anymore. Marrying Liu Chunhua was something he had to do back then.


    He could live with her but when it came to having children, he felt he could not shoulder that responsibility and was honestly afraid again.


    Although he lived muddledly, harming himself and others, harming children was the one thing he refused to do.


    If he could not raise a child properly, it was better not to have any, lest the child grew up to be someone like him.

 Chapter 399: 399 Final Decision

    <h4>Chapter 399</h4>


    This was probably one of the few traces of conscience he had left.


    There were many unfilial children, but few who did not want their own child.


    People have an innate affection towards their own flesh and blood. His inability to be a good father was a way to avoid harming the child.


    Liu Chunhua was still immersed in his words, stunned as she looked up, "You...you don''t want me anymore?"


    "I''m not abandoning you. I''m just letting you choose the path you want to take," Pei JianGuo was probably extremely nervous. At this moment, his emotions suddenly calmed down. "There was never much feeling between us to begin with. I hurt you initially. I deluded myself into thinking that marrying you was taking responsibility for you, but I ignored your desire to be a mother. Chunhua, since your body is fine, leave me and find a man who likes children, wants to have children, and is willing to raise children with you. That would be the best choice for you and the child. I''m not a good man and can''t be a good father either. Just look at PingAn and you''ll know. I want to treat him well too, but I don''t know what counts as treating him well. Even if you give birth to the child, we can''t raise him well or provide for him properly. What''s the point of letting him exist in this world?"


    "But we can make an effort and learn to be good parents, JianGuo. I never thought you weren''t a good man either. You''re very good, truly. Believe me, let''s try our best, okay?" Liu Chunhua pleaded. "Or if you don''t want to take care of the child, after he''s born I''ll raise him myself. You won''t need to be involved at all...I can raise him on my own."


    "It''s useless. I''ve tried already. The facts show that I have no patience or perseverance," said Pei JianGuo.


    As for leaving it to Liu Chunhua alone, wouldn''t that just be another him?


    Perhaps the child would turn out even worse than him in the future.


    At the very least, Wang Yue protected PingAn and never let anyone bully him. It was always others who suffered.


    Whereas Liu Chunhua was like a leaf blown off by the wind, drifting wherever the wind took her - soft and weak,cking autonomy, only suited to relying on others.


    In the end, Liu Chunhua chose to get an abortion.


    Just as Pei JianGuo expected, she never had much independent thought to begin with. Once Pei JianGuo took a firm stance, she could only submit.


    In the room, Liu Chunhuay pale and lifeless on the bed, devoid of any vitality, like an eggnt that had been struck by autumn frost - her whole being was limp and withered.


    She just felt that life was so difficult, and living well was even harder.


    She was so helpless that even when the child was already in her belly, she didn''t have the ability to protect it.


    She would probably spend the rest of her life like this. By the time she grew old, she would be driven out onto the streets to fend for herself until she perished.


    Wang Yue charged in furiously from outside, pointing her finger at Liu Chunhua''s nose and scolding her, "You useless wretch, you couldn''t conceive before, and now that you finally have, you can''t even keep the baby. What good are you for? Why don''t you just go ahead and die..."


    As always, Liu Chunhua didn''t say a word. She justy there, her gaze nkly fixed straight ahead.


    Pei JianGuo came in from outside, pulling Wang Yue with him out to the living room before he stopped, his face as dark as coal.


    "Mom, I was the one who didn''t want this child. She''s not to me, so take your anger out on me instead of bullying her," he wasn''t apletely heartless person. Seeing Liu Chunhua like this made him feel bad too.


    But a clean break would hurt less than dragging it out. When it came to the child, he had shown weakness by refusing to take on responsibility for another life as well, as he felt that was meaningless when he hadn''t even lived his own life properly.


    "You...are trying to anger me to death!" Although Wang Yue was fierce to others, her heart would always soften towards her own children. "JianGuo, you''re in your thirties now, no longer young. If you don''t have a child, what will you do in the future? Who will take care of you when you''re old?"


    Wang Yue now hated herself for not having been there to watch over Liu Chunhua. If she had known earlier, she would have guarded her closely - no one would have dared touch a hair of her grandchild without her consent.


    That woman was also an idiot. Pregnant, yet she told this heartless jerk instead of her. Now good for her, a four to five month old fetus gone just like that. What sin had shemitted!


    Pei JianGuo said, "I have PingAn. It''s not like I don''t have a son. Don''t worry about this anymore, Mom."


    "PingAn? That ungrateful brat. Look how coldly he treats you now. Can you actually rely on him in the future?" Whenever her grandson was mentioned, there would be heartache. Whenever she saw him, she tried her best to dote on him, but she knew clearly that the child wasn''t close with them at all. That was why she had been hoping so anxiously for Pei JiangGuo to have another child. "It''s all his mother''s fault too. I don''t know what your father was thinking. That woman runs away and wants nothing to do with such a small child, yet he doesn''t stop her when shees back wanting custody. Instead he helps her, bending rules to favor an outsider while failing to distinguish between family or not. And Guo Momo is also hateful. Ungrateful as she is, she still causes trouble and turns the child against us so he''s be utterly distant."


    However, in all her me towards Guo Momo, Wang Yue didn''t consider at all that there had been no change whatsoever in PingAn''s attitude before or after Guo Momo''s return.


    The woman she once looked down on so much had now returned from overseas studies atop a high horse. No matter if it was career or lifestyle, she had shot far ahead beyond her own son, leaving Wang Yue anything butfort in her heart. The only relief was to grumble about Guo Momo behind her back.


    "Mom, I''m already over thirty, not a child anymore. Could you please stop managing my life and let me live it on my own terms?" Pei JiangGuo said irritably.


    The aborted pregnancy took a toll both mentally and physically on Liu Chunhua, and he was faring no better.


    That was also his child, yet lost under his own orders. He felt like scum.


    At the same time, the guilt towards Liu Chunhua weighed even heavier on him now.


    "Yes, yes, you''ve all grown up now with a mind of your own. No longer the age where you cried mommy. What sin have Imitted to end up like this? With you like this and your sister disobedient, what will happen in the future?" Wang Yue plopped down heavily onto the sofa, hands covering her face as she sighed in anguish.


    Pei JiangGuo also sat down and asked, "How are things going between Shuangshuang and that painter? Don''t force her too much. If she really likes him that much, nagging won''t change her mind. You might as well approve the match. She''s almost thirty now too and should settle down to start her own family."


    "If she really wanted to start a family, would I make things difficult for her?" Speaking of her daughter caused Wang Yue''s tears to flow freely. "I don''t know what evil spirit''s gotten into her, fooling around with a no-name no-status man. I told her to bring him home to meet me but she refused. And she also refused to consider marriage. The more I talked about it, the less she woulde home, even moving in with him in the end. What is going on here? Cohabitation without formal introduction, that would have beenbeled as a fallen woman in previous years. She''s gone and ruined my reputationpletely!"

 Chapter 400: 400, Each in its own Way.

    <h4>Chapter 400</h4>


    Regarding this, Pei JianGuo had also talked to Pei Shuangshuang before, but it ended up in an unhappy quarrel.


    Therefore, facing Wang Yue''sints, he didn''t dare to promise anything. He felt in his heart that this younger sister was beyond hope, even more unreliable than him.


    At the same time, it made him more determined that deciding not to have a child was right. Just thinking that having a child in the future would be like this, it would be better not to have one.


    As a result, Wang Yue changed the subject to him, "JianGuo, just listen to your mother. Mother will never harm you. Ping''an is hopeless. You should have another child and think more for yourself."


    Of course Pei JianGuo knew she would not harm him. The decision was also for his own good.


    But simrly, she loved him, but might not necessarily love his child. Ping''an was a very good example.


    Yet he could not think that way, because once born, it would be his responsibility.


    After finally getting rid of Wang Yue, Pei JianGuo finally breathed a sigh of relief. He went to the kitchen to scoop out the chicken soup he had simmered and took it into the room.


    "Chunhua, I simmered chicken soup for you. Get up and drink some."


    Liu Chunhua did not pretend to be strong either. With Pei JianGuo''s help, she sat up and drank the soup.


    Pei JianGuo hesitated again and again before speaking, "What my mother just said was wrong. Don''t take it to heart. She was just angry when she said that. I will exin it clearly to herter. I won''t let her bother you again."


    "I know, I''m not angry." She knew what Pei JianGuo wanted to hear. Compared to this trivial dispute, she had even given up having a child.


    Seeing her obedient appearance, Pei JianGuo felt even more guilty, but only wanted to make up for her more in the future. He did not regret his decision at all, even if no one could understand him.


    ...


    Wanqing had recently partnered with ssmates to open a milk tea stall at the night market. She was busy until veryte every day before going home. So she didn''t get up until noon. Jiaxia felt distressed seeing this but didn''t dare stop her from going.


    This was also what Pei Jing said. At 15 years old, she was not young anymore. Since she was wholeheartedly wanting to do something at the moment, whether it was big or small, as parents they had to encourage and help her, rather than interrupting her ns and forcing her to stay home.


    Flowers in the greenhouse could not withstand wind and rain, but children would eventually have their own lives that no one could apany them through entirely.


    The best love parents could give their children was to teach them to grow up, be independent, and survive.


    Treasures held in the palm of one''s hand were easily broken unintentionally.


    It had to be admitted that although she spent more time with the child, Pei Jing was better at education for growth.


    Jiang Su and Pei Xiang brought their children to y together. The one brought was Pei Xiang''s eldest son.


    Although she didn''t marry into the family, Pei Xiang had been living with her parents after getting married. She gave birth to three children who were also helped raised by her parents. Pei Xiang discussed with her husband and they let their third son take her surname Pei, which extremely delighted Jiang Su and Pei Sheng. Although the child still called them Grandma and Grandpa.


    Jiaxia poured water for them and heard Jiang Su ask, "Jiaxia, have you heard that JianGuo''s wife had a miscarriage?"


    "Miscarriage?" Jiaxia eximed in surprise, "I didn''t hear about it. How could she have a miscarriage when she was fine?"


    She had just seen Pei JianGuo a few days ago and he didn''t mention Liu Chunhua was pregnant.


    Of course Jiaxia didn''t know. Before this, Pei JianGuo also didn''t know. After he found out, the child was aborted the next day.


    Bute to think of it, Pei JianGuo had indeed maturedpared to before. It was probably naturallying with reaching that age that he became more sensible.


    "Who knows? Wasn''t JianGuo''s wife miscarried once before? It''s probably due to physical reasons." Jiang Su had only heard about this matter and didn''t know the specific reasons. Let alone that it was Pei JianGuo who forced Liu Chunhua to get the abortion.


    If it had been Pei Shuangshuang instead, she would have pretended not to know even if she did, no matter what others said.


    Jiaxia sensed her intention, "What does Sister-in-Law have in mind then? Just let me know if you n to go over and we''ll go together."


    As long as one is still living in this world, one cannot disregard how others see them. Otherwise, why do people say life is so difficult? Jiaxia couldn''t escape this point either.


    "It''s still early. Why don''t we go over now? We can buy some things from the supply and marketing cooperative on the way too."


    "Alright, let''s do as Sister-in-Law suggests."


    It was not a deep affection to begin with, purely saving face. Just going with the flow for the gifts, no need to put much thought into it.


    Jiang Su and Pei Xiang each bought a basket of eggs and two packs of brown sugar. Jiaxia also prepared a gift to go along with them. The three went to pay a visit together.


    At this time, it had been three days since Liu Chunhua''s miscarriage.


    Pei JianGuo had gone to work. Hearing the knocking on the door, Liu Chunhua got out of bed to open the door.


    "Auntie, Sister-in-Law, Xiang Xiang, why are you here?" Liu Chunhua''s condition seemed a little better than the previous two days, but her eyes were still dim without vitality.


    "Poor child, you''ve suffered..." Jiang Su came in and put the things on the table. She didn''t dare ask about how the miscarriage happened.


    As Gao Dalin''s ex-wife, Liu Chunhua also knew about the past enmity between Jiaxia and the Gao family. Even after marrying Pei JianGuo, she had never tried to get close to Jiaxia, not daring to.


    The two had barely seen each other a few times and couldn''t be considered close. Jiaxia also ced her gift on the table and listened to Jiang Su chatting with her.


    Even though Jiang Su was already being careful with her words, after just a few sentences, she made Liu Chunhua burst into tears.


    She couldn''t rely on her parents, her mother-inw looked down on her, and she herself was timid. After the abortion, she could not go out these past few days. Only Pei JianGuo brought her meals and took care of her each day. No one else even talked to her.


    She had been depressed these days. Plus no one tofort her, she was left alone with her thoughts all day long. Her hair was falling out in clumps.


    Sometimes she thought it might be better to just die and end the suffering, but she didn''t have the courage for that either. She could only hide away and make things difficult for herself, torturing herself.


    She didn''t dare think about anything now. She just hoped someone coulde chat with her, even if just for a bit. Adding Jiang Su''s enthusiasm, Liu Chunhua instantly cried with sobs and a runny nose, even more pitiful than if she had seen her own mother.

 Chapter 401: 401 Is Really Not curious at All.

    <h4>Chapter 401</h4>


    Later, Zhi Xia and Pei Xiang left first, leaving Jiang Su Xin to stay behind and apany her.


    Just after they went out, Pei Xiang asked, "Auntie, she looks very wronged. Could her miscarriage also be caused by Pei Shuangshuang or her mother?"


    After all, Pei Shuangshuang had a history.


    If PingAn had not fallen prematurely, he would not have learned to speak and walk until he was a few years old. Fortunately he has recovered now and does not seem to have any problems. Otherwise, this child would have suffered under his aunt and grandmother all his life.


    Pei Xiang sometimes sighed endlessly. To be stuck with such a mother-inw and sister-inw, she did not know how much bad karma she had in her previous life.


    "I don''t know about this either. You know I didn''t even know about this until you guys told me in the past," Zhi Xia sighed and said, "Anyway, it''s none of our business with their family affairs. We still have to live our own lives and can''t help her."


    Zhi Xia was determined to draw a clear line between them no matter what. Even though she now had to interact with Pei Jianguo for some work matters, she still maintained a strictly professional attitude and never talked about anything unrted to work.


    "I know you didn''t know, but aren''t you curious at all? Anyway I''m very curious," probably because of their close ages, Pei Xiang''s interaction with her aunt was not like a junior and senior, but more like confidantes.


    "I''m not curious at all," Zhi Xia smiled and asked her, "Come home with me to y?"


    "No, there are still two little guys at home. I don''t know when my mom will be back with her easily overflowing sympathy. I should go back first. I��lle see you when I have time another day." Pei Meng said.


    "Alright, be careful on your way. I should head back too," Zhi Xia said, riding away on her bike.


    "Comrade An, your child''s admission notice has arrived..."


    Zhi Xia had just arrived at her door when someone called her. Looking back, she saw the postal worker who often delivered letters to her house.


    "Congrattions, another university student from your family!"


    Chenye��s admission notice was also delivered by him back then. He was the city��s top scorer in the college entrance examination, which caused quite a sensation at that time.


    Although there was no fanfare this time, getting into university was no easy feat, let alone having two university students in the family. It was certainly something to be proud of.


    "Thank you, thank you for your hard work..." Zhi Xia was genuinely happy.


    Some familiar neighbors who were chilling outside also gathered around when they heard the news, asking about which university Wanqing got into.


    After Zhi Xia was done, she finally went inside.


    If nothing unexpected happens, it should be Jincheng University.


    But she still had to wait for Wanqing toe home before opening it to see the specifics. Wanqing was not at home now and she did not know where she went.


    The fruits of her diligent studies should be unveiled by herself for maximal delight.


    When Su Ying came back and heard from the neighbors that Wanqing had been admitted to university, she hurried over.


    "Little sister, which university did Wanqing get into?"


    "Jincheng University. I just opened it before you came over," Zhi Xia quickly replied, weing her in, "Hurry in and sit down. Don''t cook tonight. Bring your kids over for dinner. With just me and Wanqing, it feels a bit dull. It''d liven things up to celebrate a little for Wanqing too."


    "A single dinner is not enough for celebration. Getting into university is a big deal. Other families would be ted. Nowadays university admission banquets are popr. We didn''t do it when Chenye got in, but you should at least host two tables for Wanqing right?" Su Ying said.


    "Let''s not host an admission banquet. If you want to eat, we can treat our family to Hua Sheng tomorrow to celebrate," Zhi Xia said softly, "Jianguo''s wife had a miscarriage. I just went to see her this afternoon when I came back. Although our families live separate lives, it would still be inappropriate to celebrate extravagantly at this time. "


    "I see. As her aunt you certainly should avoid celebrations at this juncture, or it would offend others," Su Ying originally still felt she was just trying to keep a low profile and persuade her again, but hearing the reason, she felt it was quite sensible.


    However, it was a pity. They should have celebrated grandly when Chenye got admittedst time. She saw other families in the neighbourhood celebrating every minor incident, taking in a lot of cash gifts over the years since they moved here. Even if they didn''tck money, it would at least feel more gratifying.


    But Pei Jing and Zhi Xia did not want too much fanfare. Every joyous asion was celebrated only amongst their family.


    In Su Ying��s own words, if she did not ept cash gifts or care whether others held feasts, she would have one less thing to worry about.


    So Su Ying did not stay for dinner because there was food prepared at home by her sister-inw Zhou. She still wanted Zhi Xia and Wanqing to go over but Zhi Xia declined too.


    Late at night, in the living room of the space.


    Zhi Xia ced thest te of fried prawns onto the dining table. Pei Jing and Chenye also took off their aprons and hung them aside after cooking.


    Today��s meal was prepared by the father and son pair while Zhi Xia served the dishes. Wanqing was treated like a little princess with no chores and only had to sit down and wait to be served.


    The triplets and Xiaoliu were away at a camping trip with An Zhiang, so they could not directly call them over.


    Chenye looked much more mature after not seeing him for a few months. There was some fine fuzz under his nose bing bushier.


    Pei Jing told him not to start shaving too early or it would grow even more vigorously. Though he was eager to start, he still chose to heed his father��s advice.


    Zhi Xia poured a ss of fruit juice for each of them, ��Come, let��s use fruit juice in ce of wine today. Let��s make the first toast to celebrate Wanqing the little princess�� admission into her ideal university...��


    With a crisp ding, the sses touched and the fruit juice swayed beautifully within.


    A bashful look on her face, Wanqing said ��I don��t think there��s a need to celebrate. Wouldn��t that make people ufortable? We didn''t celebrate when brother got into Peking University.��


    ��My grades were good all the way so getting in was just a matter of course. What��s there to celebrate?�� Chenye deliberately teased Wanqing, ��You��re different. To get into university after working so hard, wouldn��t failing to properly celebrate make your efforts in vain?��


    ��What do you mean? My grades have always been very good too! Also, if not for mom and dad wanting me to stay in Jincheng, I could have easily gotten into Peking University with my grades too!�� Wanqing grabbed Pei Jing��s arm, ��Dad, look at how brother��s bullying me again. Help me teach him a lesson!��


    ��Alright, alright, I��m wrong okay? I won��t tease you anymore. My sister Wanqing is definitely the most outstanding. Getting into university is a trivial feat.��


    ��That��s more like it. I shall magnanimously forgive your boastful words then,�� said Wanqing.


    Seeing the siblings bickering, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing smiled at each other. Pei Jing ced a shelled prawn into Zhi Xia��s bowl.


    ��Eat it yourself too,�� Zhi Xia mouthed to him before putting the prawn into her mouth.


    The rich fragrance burst in her mouth. Gazing at the heartwarming scene before her eyes, she felt even death would be worthwhile at this moment.

 Chapter 402: 402 Things Are Getting Ugly.

    <h4>Chapter 402</h4>


    The two-month holiday went by quickly. Before the start of school, the four little coal balls were sent back by An ZhiAng.


    PingAn rushed in first thing and dove into the room with Little Sixth.


    ZhiXia was talking to the triplets when PingAn and Little Sixth ran out, leaving with just one sentence before they left, "Mom, Little Sixth and I are going out to y, don''t call us for dinner."


    It wasmon for PingAn to go out and y with Little Sixth, and they often ate at Pei Yong''s ce, so ZhiXia was used to it.


    However, seeing how quickly they ran off today, she felt a little puzzled, as if wolves were chasing them.


    When it was time for dinner, Pei Yong came over looking for them, "ZhiXia, PingAn hasn''t gone back for dinner, is he at your ce?"


    "He came at noon and took Little Sixth away with him. I thought they were ying at your ce," ZhiXia came out, puzzled, "They just got back, where did these two rascals run off to?"


    "They''re old enough not to get lost. They probably got caught up ying and forgot toe back. I''ll go look for them," Pei Yong said before leaving.


    Soon after, ZhiXia received a phone call. It was Pei JianGuo''s angry voice, "Auntie, are you still keeping an eye on your son? He took PingAn and beat up Chunhua and now they''re at the police station!"


    "Did you call the police to catch them?" ZhiXia asked.


    "I just got the call too. I have to rush to the hospital to see Chunhua. I haven''t dared to tell my dad yet. PingAn and Chen You are both at the police station. Someone has to go pick them up."


    Pei JianGuo had no idea why these two kids suddenly went crazy and showed up at his house to beat someone up. He himself still didn''t understand what was going on.


    "I see. I''ll go to the police station now. If it''s the children''s fault, I will definitely give you an exnation," ZhiXia said.


    After hanging up the phone, ZhiXia fell into thought.


    It was definitely not for no reason that the two children suddenly beat someone up, especially PingAn.


    It had not been just one or two days since Pei JianGuo married Liu Chunhua. PingAn usually did not interfere with their affairs. Although the boy did not say it out loud, he was quite arrogant in his heart. Pei JianGuo did not want him, so he simply did not want to recognize this father. Therefore, Liu Chunhua must have done something to anger PingAn for him to want to teach her a lesson.


    ZhiXia hurriedly went to the yard to get her bicycle and rushed to the police station.


    Liu Jun came out from inside, "Just in time, I was about to go to your house to notify you. Why is no one answering your phone?"


    "There was no one at home then, and we didn''t hear the phone ring. Is it about Chen You and PingAn? Where are the kids? What exactly happened?" ZhiXia asked anxiously.


    The triplets had just returned and went to find their little friends too. She had just returned home after going out when she received Pei JianGuo''s call. Liu Jun had probably called earlier.


    "They''re all inside. We asked them why they beat her up too. PingAn said the one who was beaten was his stepmother who wanted to drive him out of his grandfather''s house, so he wanted to teach her a lesson..." Liu Jun said, "The two children denyying a hand on Liu Chunhua, but Liu Chunhua does have an injury on her forehead. She identified that the two children pushed her down and she hit the corner of a table when falling down and got hurt. It looks quite serious with blood flowing out."


    Liu Jun suggested it would be best for them to settle this privately. Moreover, their rtionship was clear. The matter should be easy to resolve, not to mention that PingAn was still Pei JianGuo''s son. The police had defined this incident as a family dispute.


    ZhiXia thanked Liu Jun and went inside to get the two kids out.


    PingAn and Little Sixth were sitting there with their heads lowered, looking as if they realized they had caused trouble.


    "Let''s go, back home first," ZhiXia said.


    The two little guys followed her dejectedly. Little Sixth stubbornly said, "We really didn''t push her. We just went to talk reason with her, but she lost her bnce herself and hit the corner of the table. We didn''t even touch her."


    PingAn hurriedly nodded in agreement, "What Little Sixth said is true. Auntie, if you want to me someone then me me. Beat me up if you want, this is all my fault. Little Sixth was only there to help me. Don''t me him."


    "We both got into trouble together. And you calling me uncle, how could I let you take all the me yourself," Little Sixth stepped forward boldly, "Mom, if you want to me someone then me me. You also know PingAn doesn''t have the guts for this. It was me who told him to go with me to talk reason with his vicious stepmother. Otherwise he usually doesn''t even go to his dad''s ce."


    The two children tried to take responsibility for themselves.


    After they left the police station, ZhiXia asked them, "You two tell me the truth. No lying. Did she really fall by herself or did you push her? Also, what reason could you two little kids have had to talk to her? Aren''t adult issues for adults to resolve?"


    Moreover, vicious stepmother - where did they even hear this term? She could only get to the bottom of this first before settling ounts with these two kids.


    "She really fell by herself. We were in the living room at that time. The most we said was that she was too vicious. Then her body shook and she fell on the corner of the table. She started crying out loud too. Later a neighbor came after hearing the ruckus and called the police," Little Sixth said clearly while PingAn nodded vigorously beside him.


    "Auntie, you don''t know how vicious this woman is. Don''t be fooled by her pitiful looks and silence whenever she meets someone. But behind the scenes she got my mom to take me away," PingAn said with a look of being on the verge of tears, "I barely managed to persuade grandpa not to send me to my mom. I wanted to stay with grandpa but that wicked woman conspired with my mom, wanting me to leave. I heard it clearly, around the corner of my house. They were discussing it there and I just happened to be leaning over the wall!"


    "No matter what, you two shouldn''t have gone to confront her yourselves. Didn''t I teach you to look for adults whenever there''s an issue? Have you forgotten?" ZhiXia didn''t dare to agree with what they were saying. Their courage was a bit too big.


    Little Sixth and PingAn lowered their heads.


    They felt they were not little kids anymore and were capable of resolving this matter themselves. But they didn''t expect things to turn out this way either.


    Now probably the whole world knew they were bad kids, the kind that broke into homes and beat people up.


    But heaven knows, they really didn''t push her. That wicked woman fell herself.


    After confirming with them again that they did not push the woman, ZhiXia sent them back home before rushing to the hospital herself.


    She saw Pei JianGuoing out of the hospital room. She asked him, "Is it serious?"


    "She hit the corner of the table directly with her forehead. Got several stitches. They''re keeping her to observe for two days," Pei JianGuo said. "Did you get the kids out? What''s going on with them?"


    "Got them out. What did Liu Chunhua say? That the two kids assaulted her?" ZhiXia asked.

 Chapter 403: 403 Different Words

    <h4>Chapter 403</h4>


    "That''s not the case. You don''t know her well since you haven''t met her many times. Chunhua is different from others. She is timid and afraid of trouble. She is also weak. When encountering such things, she won''t defend herself and just cries." Pei JianGuo seemed to be obviously on Liu Chunhua''s side, but one of the children was his own, so he couldn''t condemn them all. He still had to ask for the reason, "What did the two of them say?"


    Pei JianGuo was quite reasonable when he wasn''t impulsive. It was just that his eyes weren''t good, and he often attracted some ill-intentioned people. He was also easily influenced by those around him.


    Knoxxia told him what the two children meant. Pei JianGuoughed out immediately. "That''s impossible. Sister-inw, could it be that they were afraid of being scolded so they lied? I know Chunhua. She is as timid as a quail. She wouldn''t have such thoughts, and PingAn lives with my dad. Chunhua doing this makes no sense at all."


    As he spoke, his expression suddenly changed. "Could it be Guo Momo stabbing things in the back? She must have said something to PingAn behind our backs. That''s right. It must be this woman. I told my dad that we can''t let her get in touch with PingAn. Otherwise, sooner orter, the child will be corrupted by her. But my dad just wouldn''t listen to me. Now it has be like this!"


    The two children also mentioned the meeting between Guo Momo and Liu Chunhua and discussed sending PingAn away. Pei JianGuo''s spection was not entirely unreasonable.


    But when he said this, did he ever think of himself?


    Perhaps seeing the meaningful expression on Knoxxia''s face, he said somewhat uneasily, "I know I''m not entirely right either. My dad taught PingAn very well, so I never interfered."


    This meant that Guo Momo didn''t dare interfere, which led the child to be like this.


    Knoxxia didn''t discuss this with him and said, "Let me go in and see Chunhua."


    "Okay. But pay attention to what you say. She is sensitive. After suffering such a great grievance this time, I finally coaxed her well. Don''t make her cry again."


    Pei JianGuo now deeply realized a truth. These were all women he couldn''t afford to offend. His former naivety no longer existed. Now he didn''t dare look down on women anymore.


    Knoxxia thought for a while and said again, "The two children are not the kind of people who cause trouble for no reason. And the child said there was no push. We can''t easily conclude that they pushed her. The injured person is your wife. But the one involved in the push is your son. I still hope you can keep your attitude upright."


    "Children are more fragile than adults. We can me and punish them for fighting without telling adults, but we can''t impose on them things they haven''t done. That would also greatly hurt the children."


    "But Chunhua is an honest person." Pei JianGuo annoyingly scratched his head. He really didn''t believe that a woman like Liu Chunhua, who looked weak and fragile, would lie and falsely use the two children.


    Besides, her forehead had been stitched up with several stitches. He had seen it stitched up himself. It couldn''t be fake, right? She couldn''t have bumped into something herself!


    "Let me go in first." Knoxxia said and walked in.


    Liu Chunhua had just got her stitches. She was going to sleep for a while, but her heart was tense. As soon as she heard the door open, she hurriedly turned her head.


    Herplexion was pale, her eyes slightly red. Although beautiful, she had a crying face. Like a porcin doll that would break at the slightest touch, weeping in the rain. No wonder Pei JianGuo believed Liu Chunhua wouldn''t lie.


    "Sis...Sister-inw." She seemed surprised to see Knoxxia and quickly got up from the bed but identally pulled the wound on her forehead. She winced in pain at the corner of her mouth.


    "Don''t move. It will tug at the wound. Let me fluff your pillow so you can sit up." Knoxxia quickly went over to help prop her up with a pillow and sat on the stool by the bed.


    "I just came back from the police station. The two children have also been brought home. But I still have toe to learn about the situation from you. Chunhua, the police have filed a case for this matter. Lying will bear legal liability. So I have to ask, did you fall by yourself or..."


    "Sister-inw, I know what you mean. Don''t worry. I don''t have children of my own. PingAn is like my own child. Chen You is your and brother-inw''s son. We are all family. I certainly can''t watch them both be ruined. I''ll go tell the police right now that I fell by myself and they have nothing to do with it..." Liu Chunhua interrupted Knoxxia and quickly and timidly tried to get out of bed.


    Pei JianGuo pushed the door open from the outside and pressed her back into the hospital bed. "That''s enough, Sister-inw. I know you feel for Chen You. I also feel for PingAn. But wrong is wrong. Chunhua is not pursuing them anymore. That''s very generous of her. We can''t bully an honest person too much. You go back and talk to the two of them to have theme and apologize to Chunhua. Let''s put this matter behind us."


    However, Knoxxia sat leisurely. "Alright, let''s ignore this matter. PingAn said he saw you meeting Guo Momo before this and discussing sending PingAn away. You and JianGuo got married not just one or two days ago. PingAn has never targeted you before. The child wouldn''t suddenly target you, right? So can you exin this to me?"


    "I didn''t want to send PingAn away. PingAn''s mother looked for me and said she wanted to take PingAn to her side. She hoped I could help. But I also know PingAn has always lived with his dad. I, as a stepmother, can''t make that decision either. So I truthfully told her that if she really wanted to take PingAn, she''d have to discuss it with his dad and JianGuo. I don''t know what PingAn overheard, but I really rejected her. Maybe the child misheard and that''s why he targeted me."


    Liu Chunhua stated it clearly. But it seemed she wasn''t so timid that she couldn''t defend herself.


    She seemed to be finding excuses for PingAn, but she had also exined the reason why PingAn targeted her.


    Seeing her like this, Knoxxia knew there was little meaning in continuing.


    She smiled and said, "You''ve just been injured. You should rest more. I''ll go back first. Later I''ll ask Sister Zhang to bring you lunch. I''lle see you another day."


    "Sister-inw, don''t bother. I''ll just eat something simple. The hospital has a cafeteria. I''ll have JianGuo go buy somethingter. Please don''t trouble yourselves." Liu Chunhua said.


    "It''s no trouble. No matter how good the hospital food is, it can''tpare to our home cooking. Just focus on recovering." Knoxxia said with a smile.


    After leaving the hospital, her expression drastically changed.


    One side must be lying. She couldn''t firmly say her child was right either. But it couldn''t be denied that Guo Momo also yed a big role in this.

 Chapter 404: 404 The Softhearted Will lose

    <h4>Chapter 404</h4>


    ZhiXia brought YuanBao into her space and installed monitoring devices on it to have it stay at the hospital while she left.


    She first went back home before going to find GuoMomo.


    GuoMomo majored in judicial administration abroad and was arranged to work in the court after returning home. She waspetent in her job despite her young age.


    Upon hearing that ZhiXia hade to see her, GuoMomo was surprised and quickly handed over her work to others before leaving.


    The two used to have a great rtionship. Since GuoMomo had returned, they had only greeted each other politely, and ZhiXia had nevere to see her before.


    GuoMomo racked her brains but could not figure out why ZhiXia wanted to see her.


    Despite her endless spections, the moment she saw ZhiXia outside, GuoMomo instantly broke into a joyful smile. "Auntie, you''vee to see me?"


    Although she had divorced PeiJianGuo and no longer had any rtionship with him, PingAn was still between them. So GuoMomo''s form of address for ZhiXia had not changed.


    ZhiXia looked around and saw there was a restaurant nearby. She nodded and asked GuoMomo, "I do have something I want to ask you about. Do you have time to sit for a bit?"


    "Of course. Where would you like to sit, auntie?"


    "Here is fine. We can have a bite while we talk," said ZhiXia.


    The two went inside and ordered some dishes. Arge fan next to their table was spinning and blowing out hot air.


    "PingAn went to confront LiuChunhua and beat her up badly. LiuChunhua is seriously injured and hospitalized. PingAn has also been taken to the police station. Did you know about this?"


    "That''s impossible," GuoMomo reacted instinctively. "PingAn has always been well behaved and sensible. He would never beat someone up. LiuChunhua must be framing him."


    "But LiuChunhua insisted that PingAn beat her, and PeiJianGuo has taken her side," ZhiXia watched GuoMomo''s expression closely. "A child can never win an argument against adults. PingAn will probably suffer greatly this time. Although Grandpa dotes on him, he is also very strict about PingAn''s moral conduct and would never allow any ws. As you know, PingAn has had poor health since he was little and has only recently be stronger. If anything goes wrong now, it would be toote for regrets. I came to see you because I feel bad for the boy. After all, you are his mother. Even if the child has made a mistake, he still needs someone on his side."


    GuoMomo thought back to how PingAn looked when he was little, just a tiny bundle like a kitten.


    She had raised him bit by bit herself because shecked milk due to giving premature birth. She would get up in the middle of the night to make form for him and carried him on her back to school every day.


    PingAn was not close to her, but she never med the child for it because she was the one in the wrong first.


    GuoMomo had always wanted the child toe back to her but never considered using such extreme methods.


    She med herself. It was all her fault.


    She was the birth mother, not LiuChunhua. How could she, GuoMomo, who was clever all her life, be tricked by an illiterate woman?


    She didn''t dare tell ZhiXia these thoughts. She could only get up in a fluster and say, "I''m so sorry, Auntie, but I have to leave. I can''t stay for the meal. Thank you for telling me about PingAn today. I...I have to go now."


    She had heard from PingAn about PeiYong''s teaching methods - kind yet strict. She was genuinely afraid if he used force.


    Ever since birth, PingAn had experienced a bumpy fate. He had finally be whole and intact. She could not let anything happen to him again right before her eyes.


    Unlike GuoMomo''s anxiousness, everything was going as ZhiXia had anticipated. Although GuoMomo was still using the wrong methods, she did truly care for PingAn.


    By the time GuoMomo arrived, she could just hear PingAn''s anguished cries. When she rushed in, she saw PeiYong squatting at the door smoking while inside, a severely injured PingAn was lying facedown on the bed as PeiChenyou''s tears fell while trying to apply medicine to PingAn''s wounds. PingAn cried out loudly whenever the medicine touched his injuries.


    Upon seeing here in, PingAn quickly pulled up the quilt to cover himself but aggravated his injuries from the movement and cried out in pain with snot and tears smearing his face. It was a pitiful sight.


    LittleSixth hurriedly covered him with the quilt, but the fabric touching PingAn''s exposed skin caused him to shriek loudly in pain again.


    "Get out. I don''t want to see any of you. Just get out... Anyway, no one is willing to believe me, so you might as well beat me to death. I don''t even want to live anymore..." sobbed PingAn.


    At that moment, GuoMomo felt her heart shatter into pieces.


    PeiYong rushed in angrily. "So you think living is hard? Isn''t it easier to just dieughing instead? I''ll beat you to death today, you bastard. It''ll be a menace having you alive as a failed human being. At such a young age, you already dare to assault and gravely injure elders. I''ll simply beat you to death..."


    GuoMomo quickly held back the enraged PeiYong, "Uncle, don''t be angry. Have the child clearly exin things. We still don''t know the truth of this incident yet. You can''t beat him like that. PingAn is physically weak. You''ll really beat him to death."


    Neither PingAn''s refusal to admit wrongdoing or PeiYong wanting to beat him allowed GuoMomo''s persuasions to work. It became chaotic in an instant.


    With great difficulty, GuoMomo pulled PeiYong outside while LittleSixth quickly shut and locked the door.


    PeiYong sat down on the doorstep looking utterly disappointed.


    GuoMomo was left with only regret in her heart. "Uncle, PingAn is someone you raised. You should trust him. If he says he didn''t beat anyone, then he didn''t. You can''t just listen to one-sided usations, right?"


    "When people discovered his mom, she was lying face down on the floor covered in blood. So many witnessed it. How could it be fake? Now her head has been stitched with many needles and is still hospitalized. Would a grown woman falsely use and frame a child? She doesn''t even have children herself. What good would that do her?" PeiYong looked up. "Momo, I know you are a good kid and you feel for PingAn. But you can''t spoil children like that. The rod is what produces filial piety. The stepmother is still his mother. If I don''t beat him, how will he know his own wrongdoings? I have already held back because of his poor health, intending to go easy on him physically. In a couple days, he must kneel and apologize to his mother sincerely. He can''t get up if she doesn''t forgive him."


    Every sentence PeiYong spoke pricked GuoMomo''s heart like a knife. She was clearly PingAn''s birth mother. PingAn only had one mom, and that was her!


    "Uncle, please calm down first. I will give you an exnation about this matter for sure. I believe PingAn is meless. Don''t be angry anymore. I will make LiuChunhua tell the truth." GuoMomo said resolutely.


    After GuoMomo left, LittleSixth unlocked and opened the door from inside. Bare-bottomed PingAn, whose back was covered in red marks yet showed no signs of pain, also crawled up.


    He pursed his lips as his heart held grief that others could not understand.


    Although he only wanted to be with Grandpa, it wasn''t that he didn''t ept his mother either. He had obediently apanied her whenever she asked him out. Wasn''t that enough?


    Why? Why must things be handled this way?


    PingAn wiped his eyes and crawled back into bed.


    Of course PeiYong didn''t actually beat him. This was just a scheme devised between ZhiXia and them.


    Since LiuChunhua refused to tell the truth, they could only make their move from GuoMomo''s side.


    Between a mother and child, it is always the softer heart that loses.


    And the victor has nothing to boast about either.

 Chapter 405: 405 The Truth

    <h4>Chapter 405</h4>


    Little Sixth and PingAn yed the best together. Seeing him sad, I couldn''t help feeling sad too. "PingAn, don''t be sad. I remember my mom once said, anyone who makes you sad is not worth your sadness. Don''t cry, I want to cry when you cry."


    "Woo woo..." PingAn pulled the quilt and sat up, hugging Little Sixth tightly. "I don''t want to cry either, but I...I...I...can''t control it!"


    Pei Yong came in from outside and looked at them harshly, "Both of you, get up and stand properly."


    Little Sixth and PingAn were very obedient. They immediately stood up without even wiping the tears off their faces.


    "PingAn, this time Grandpa didn''t punish you, not because you did nothing wrong. We adults are willing to believe that you were framed, and give you another chance. But have you ever reflected on why others could frame you so easily?" Pei Yong asked them, "I told you many times before that you are still kids. No matter what happens, you should seek help from adults. But you didn''t care and impulsively confronted an adult. No matter how stupid the adult is, can he be more stupid than two kids?"


    "Grandpa, we know we were wrong."


    "Uncle, we know we were wrong."


    "I just hope that in the future when you do things, you can think more and consider more. This time you are lucky enough to be fine. But what if you encounter worse and more sinister people next time? What would you do?" Pei Yong asked them.


    He had lived for most of his life and met countless bad people. Liu Chunhua was only wicked at heart.


    He could probably guess some of her thoughts. She probably med PingAn for JianGuo''s unwillingness to have children. So she wanted PingAn to leave and be with his mom.


    Guo Momo and JianGuo werepletely at odds. If PingAn was with his mom, it would be no different from JianGuo having no son. In this case, he would definitely consider having another one.


    After all, nowadays people still think it''s necessary to have offspring.


    Speaking of which, Pei Yong still couldn''t believe that Pei JianGuo was so against having children. After all, he had intervened in his marriage. Pei JianGuo just ignored him, but was particrly firm on not having children.


    Seeing the two kids lowering their heads without arguing back, Pei Yong felt distressed and helpless.


    "It''s good that you know you were wrong. Go stand facing the wall in the living room for two hours. And each of you has to write a repentance letter." Pei Yong supervised them personally. They had to be educated well after doing something wrong. Being lenient would lead to repeated mistakes.


    Guo Momo angrily came to the hospital. As soon as she entered, she saw Pei JianGuo feeding Liu Chunhua soup.


    Looking sick, shey in bed with her head wrapped up tightly, apparently seriously injured.


    No wonder his grandfather beat the children so badly. Liu Chunhua was also vicious. It was agreed to only have some minor conflicts with the children so that contradictions would naturally arise over time.


    But she was so sinister that she wanted to get it done in one step without considering PingAn''s reputation at all.


    When Liu Chunhua saw Guo Momo, she inevitably shed a trace of panic.


    Noticing Liu Chunhua''s abnormality, Pei JianGuo looked back and saw the unfriendly Guo Momo. He immediately frowned, "You still have the face toe? It''s all because you spoiled the child. If you hadn''t taught the child all kinds of indecent words behind my back, how would he, a child, understand and do such an impulsive thing? Guo Momo, I''ve always felt that you are not a good person, but your motherly love for PingAn is real. But now I finally see through you clearly. You are a thoroughly selfish and profitable woman. You are still the same as before, using any means to achieve your goals. You can abandon PingAn for studying abroad. And now in order to get PingAn back, you even teach him to be bad..."


    Pei JianGuo scolded her. But Guo Momo just sneered at Liu Chunhua, "I want to talk to you alone. I believe you shouldn''t refuse, right?"


    Frightened, Liu Chunhua looked at Pei JianGuo. She was timid as an ant and certainly didn''t dare to face Guo Momo alone.


    Feeling nervous, she quickly exined, "PingAn''s mom, I know why you came. I''ve given in. I told everyone that PingAn didn''t push me. I fell by ident."


    "Guo Momo, don''t go too far. I won''t argue with you about asking Chunhua to help you take PingAn away. But I do it all for PingAn''s sake. I also hope you can have some self-restraint." Pei JianGuo said.


    "I asked you to help me get PingAn, but I didn''t ask you to nder him." At this moment, Guo Momo truly felt that she was really stupid. "Liu Chunhua, people have to pay the price for what they say. I went to see PingAn before I came here. If you insist that PingAn pushed you, we can only take legal measures. You also know my job now. Shall we have an appraisal of which hand PingAn used to push you? What gesture did he use when pushing you? How did you fall down? Were there any fingerprints left on the clothes you wore when you were pushed by the child..." Guo Momo''s eyes were icy as she looked at the already flustered Liu Chunhua. "I, Guo Momo, am not stupid enough to be deceived by a few words. If you want to frame me and my son, you have to see if you have the ability!"


    Dare to provoke her, she would make sure Liu Chunhua didn''t have good days for the rest of her life.


    Liu Chunhua nervously grabbed Pei JianGuo''s arm. She had little knowledge and didn''t know whether Guo Momo was telling the truth or lies, let alone whether there were really so many means to ascertain the truth.


    But there was no doubt that she was panicking at the moment, and the only one she could grab was Pei JianGuo beside her.


    Speaking like this, Pei JianGuo also seemed to have tasted it. He turned his head to look at Liu Chunhua, "Chunhua, you didn''t frame PingAn, did you? As long as you say so, I will believe you. However, what Guo Momo said was right about one thing. If the child really pushed you, fingerprints would definitely be left on the clothes. That would be the best evidence. If you really lied, you would go to jail for this. I can''t protect you either."


    Guo Momo was so confident, while Liu Chunhua was obviouslycking in confidence.


    It was true that she was timid, but he was there. As long as she didn''t lie, there was no need to be afraid.


    Pei JianGuo really wanted to believe Liu Chunhua because he felt too guilty towards her. But he was not a fool either, and this matter also involved his son.


    "I didn''t. I really didn''t." Liu Chunhua shook her head in panic. "JianGuo, you know me best. I''ve always told you that PingAn didn''t push me."


    Seeing that Pei JianGuo was also leaning towards Guo Momo''s side, Liu Chunhua panickedpletely.


    She really didn''t say PingAn pushed her. Others just thought so. No one listened when she exined.


    Guo Momo looked at Pei JianGuo with obvious sarcasm at the corner of her mouth, mocking him.


    And Pei JianGuo was a little dazed, unable to change for a moment.


    From beginning to end, she never said PingAn pushed her. But her tone, expression and movements gave the feeling that she was wronged but didn''t dare to say it.


    So was there something wrong with his ability to understand, or Liu Chunhua''s way of expressing things?


    At that moment, Pei JianGuo couldn''t help but think back to the past.


    After he first discovered that he had slept with Liu Chunhua, the child in her belly a few monthster turned into a pool of blood. She also looked at him innocently and told him that she didn''t me him.


    What used to relieve him now terrified him when he thought about it again carefully.


    Were there really women who could be so magnanimous as to disregard their own flesh and blood?


    And at that time, he was just a man she had seen a few times as her brother-inw.


    "Pei JianGuo, I admit that I, Guo Momo, am not a good woman either. But you have to admit one fact that flies don''t sting seamless eggs. Without me, you haven''t found a good woman to live with either. You only deserve such nasty, dirty goods, who can even falsely use a child!" Guo Momo scolded contemptuously.


    Pei JianGuo was red with shame but unable to refute.


    Since things were already very clear, Liu Chunhua could not argue with Guo Momo, nor could she refute the fact that she had framed the two children.


    He looked at Liu Chunhua, for the first time truly realizing how tragic his life was.


    He opened his mouth, but did not know what to say.


    Liu Chunhua was anxious, "JianGuo, believe me, I was really scared too. You know, the two kids rushed into the house and threatened me. I was really panicking at the time, so I sprained my foot and hit the table, then I passed out. When I woke up, you asked me if the kids had pushed me. My mind was confused then, and I couldn''t remember clearly either. Although unwilling, I still kept telling you they didn''t push me. I didn''t want anything to happen to the two kids! And even if they didn''t push me, the fact that they came to the door to curse me is still true. It was because they came in angrily that scared me and made me sprain my foot and fall. I''m an elder and PingAn''s stepmother. How could you expect me to be magnanimous..."


    Liu Chunhua''s reaction was still rtively quick, and she soon found an excuse to defend herself.


    Thanks also to herck of education, she was easily intimidated by Guo Momo, thinking she could really prove whether or not she had framed PingAn and Little Sixth through those details.


    Pei JianGuo was silent because right now he didn''t know who was right or wrong. His own mind was also confused and he couldn''t discern right from wrong for the time being.


    But he also knew Liu Chunhua was right that it was the two kids who came to the door first.


    "Comrade Guo, even if I was confused at the time and made a mistake, were you not wrong either? Don''t forget, it was you who came to me a couple days ago saying you wanted me to make things difficult for PingAn. I hadn''t agreed to you at that time." As she spoke, Liu Chunhua grabbed Pei JianGuo again, "JianGuo, I really didn''t mean to falsely use the kids. But you don''t know how I felt when they scolded me today. They clearly knew the children were my biggest sore point, yet they kept stabbing at my heart, saying I was a vicious, evil woman who could never have children in this life. If not for those words, I wouldn''t have lost my mind in anger at the time."


    Guo Momo was also unable to refute this, because she had indeed said such things before.


    But her so-called making things difficult was verbally and physically, not getting her to frame the children and ruin them.


    Guo Momo warned Liu Chunhua to exin things clearly to the police herself. In fact, this matter had already been determined as a family dispute. No matter who was right or wrong, it would not lead to detention or imprisonment, mainly just for reputation.


    ZhiXia rushed over when Liu Chunhua had already been abandoned at the hospital by Pei JianGuo.


    Only now did he realize what it means when they say, "A pitiable person must have something hateful."


    Liu Chunhua was pitiable having met him, which was also her misfortune. But this did not mean that she could hurt his children for whatever reason.


    Of course, PingAn was also wrong and could not refute having taken the initiative to provoke the incident, which gave Liu Chunhua the chance to falsely use him.


    As soon as Liu Chunhua saw ZhiXia, she cried pleadingly to her, "Auntie, please help me. I didn''t mean to harm anyone. I was just so angry at the child that I momentarily got the idea to make it difficult for PingAn and have his mom take him away. I didn''t expect things to get so serious. Really, believe me..."


    Whether she was pitiable or not was not for ZhiXia to judge or feel heartache over. She knew this point clearly.


    "No matter if you were confused or truly malicious, people always have to pay the price for what they do themselves. I can''t help you either." ZhiXia secretly took YuanBao away while eavesdropping on their conversation through the monitoring device.


    In this matter, neither Guo Momo nor Liu Chunhua were innocent, while PingAn and Little Sixth were also outrageously wrong and deserved punishment.


    When ZhiXia returned, Little Sixth had just finished standing punishment with PingAn under Pei Yong, then got another round of scolding from him. Only after obtaining their promise that they would seek help from adults in the future did he let the two go.


    In the space, ZhiXia vented her frustration about the whole situation to Pei Jing in lively expressions that made Pei Jing''s heart ache endlessly.


    "Alright, the punishment and scolding is over. Little Sixth also knows his mistakes. Don''t get yourself so angry that you make yourself sick over this. It''s not worth it."


    "I know it''s not worth it. I''m just terrified afterwards. These kids are too impulsive. Even without telling adults or his brothers, Little Sixth followed PingAn straight to their door to demand an exnation. Can you me others for framing them?" ZhiXia said, "If not for them being my own children, I would have to say they deserved it no matter who else it was."


    ZhiXia did not know how things were handled between Pei JianGuo and Liu Chunhua, but Pei JianGuo had been frequently seen running to hide in the backtely.


    PingAn often took refuge over here, saying his dad kepting over trying to talk to him, making him feel strangely ufortable.


    Guo Momo had alsoe over several times from her side. PingAn didn''t want to see her. Pei Yong used to frequently help speak up for Guo Momo, but he stopped interferring after this incident.


    He could understand Guo Momo''s desire to have a son, but he did not want to ept her trying to take PingAn away from his side.


    Although PingAn was his grandson, after years of living together, he had also be Pei Yong''s most cherished treasure. The two relied on each other and were inseparable, having long surpassed what others could rece.

 Chapter 406: 406 Foreign Joint Venture: The Limelight

    <h4>Chapter 406</h4>


    Guo Momo really lost this round. Not only did she not get her son back, she also made Ping''an not want to pay attention to her anymore.


    Liu Chunhua did not get any benefits either, and made Pei JianGuo start to doubt the miscarriage she had back then.


    Can people really be so magnanimous?


    Facing someone who forced her to miscarry in that way again, even if he was unconscious from drunkenness at that time, shouldn''t it be so simple to forgive the other person?


    To be honest, he could not do it, but Liu Chunhua did it without any psychological burden.


    Too many coincidences, it was premeditated early on.


    And there was the certificate of infertility.


    Originally he did not doubt it, but after seeing Liu Chunhua''s determination to have children, it made him have to doubt it.


    She could frame a child for this reason. How could she not fake a diagnosis book?


    When Pei JianGuo thought back to the hospital name on the diagnosis book, he went along the road to find it, but found that it was just an unknown small clinic.


    He was physically strong and rarely got sick. He didn''t even know when this clinic opened, let alone never been there before.


    Pei JianGuo went in and found the doctor who issued the diagnosis book and asked about it directly.


    With money and threats, but the doctor had colluded with Liu Chunhua early and answered seamlessly.


    The other party only said it was difficult to get pregnant, not that she couldn''t get pregnant at all. It was a matter of probability. What else could they say?


    Birth control pills still have a 1% chance of getting pregnant. Individual physiques are different. This is really too difficult to determine.


    But no matter what the result was, Pei JianGuo''s attitude clearly made Liu Chunhua feel that something was wrong, which made her panic.


    With the start of school, parents finally started to be liberated.


    Zhi Xia was not very relieved to let Wanqing live alone in the dormitory, but it took more than half an hour to drive back and forth every day, which was not exactly close. And sses started very early. To eat breakfast and get there on time, they would have to get up before 6 am. In winter, riding a bike would easily freeze her hands.


    Plus the child herself also wanted to be independent. Zhi Xia could only agree to let her live on campus.


    On the day school started, she and Wanqing went together.


    Because Zhi Xia also graduated from here, so many teachers knew her.


    They went to register first, and then went to the dormitory.


    Although they came very early, surprisingly everyone else hade very early too.


    Several beds in the dormitory had already been taken. Wanqing chose an upper bunk by the window. She went up to clean and make the bed herself. Zhi Xia helped her organize her luggage and toiletries.


    Wanqing had ss tomorrow, so she would live here from today. Zhi Xia left her bike for her and went home by bus herself.


    On the way, when the bus passed the intersection next to An''s house, Zhi Xia got off and found a secluded ce. She took out a full bamboo basket from her space bracelet and slung it over her arm.


    In the two years since the old man passed away, the olddy has been living here. Although it was far away, Zhi Xia still came to see her from time to time.


    The things she brought were all things the olddy could eat, mostly handmade by her, some of which were hard to exin the source, so she made them into sauces and pastries.


    When Zhi Xia opened the door, she heard the sound of brushinging from the kitchen. Someone should be busy inside.


    The olddy was lying in a recliner under a tree in the yard with a nket over her, her eyes closed, not knowing if she was asleep.


    Zhi Xia first put the basket in the living room, then took a small stool out and sat next to the olddy.


    Hearing the movement, the olddy opened her eyes. The moment she saw Zhi Xia, she was visibly delighted. "Zhi Xia ah, aren''t you sending your child to school today? Howe you''re here?"


    "I''ve already sent her. I didn''t have anything to do on the way back when I passed by here, so I came to see how you''re doing, Granny." Zhi Xia leaned forward and sped the olddy''s palms in her hands. "Granny, has your health been good recently?"


    "Good, good." The olddy seemed toin, but her heart was alwaysforted.


    As people grew older, they tended to be more emotional. Grievances from the past now made sense. Especially after living with Zhou Nan and witnessing her busy life every day, she understood better how hard it was for her.


    Plus at her age, she always felt that she didn''t have long to live, that now every day she''s alive is just adding trouble for the younger generations.


    "As long as you''re healthy, then I can rest assured. I brought you some things, they''re in the basket in the living room, some soft pastries and health supplements you like."


    "Supplements are useless for old people. Why waste the money." Although the olddy seemed toin, her heart was alwaysforted.


    When it came to thoughtfulness, it still had to be girls, and those with blood ties were always stronger than those without.


    Zhi Xia chatted with her for a while, had lunch here, and then went back to her own home.


    The triplets and Xia Liu were already at school. Only sister-inw Zhang was at home cleaning up. Zhi Xia took a look around and went straight to thepany.


    Jiang Tao came in and said, "Director An, themodity housing sales of Yuanan Garden Phase I have reached the tail end. The mall side has also entered the right track. Currently, all funds have been recovered. This is the current financial status of our Shengan Group and the next phase of development n. Please take a look.��


    Jiang Tao��s ability was beyond doubt, but there was still some difficulty in the nextnd auction.


    Last time others needed her, so naturally everything was up to her. But now the momentum of real estate was initially emerging, and there were many people who wanted a piece of the pie. Naturally, thepetition fornd was also strong.


    "The n has no problem, but thend auction still needs close attention, especially Yuanan Garden and the mall side. It makes no sense that when we have done it to this point, outsiderse to take the fruits of ourbor.��


    "Well, if there��s nothing else I��ll go out first.�� Jiang Tao walked to the door and suddenly stopped. He turned back, ��Oh yes, there is one more thing. Recently, foreign capital has wanted to conduct technology financing in the appliance industry. Two appliance factories have epted the terms. The momentum is fierce, which has also directly affected the sales of fans and TVs of Hongfeng Appliance. Hongfeng has also received invitations for foreign capital technology joint ventures. I think this can be considered. I don''t know what the chairman thinks?"


    "Foreign capital technology joint venture?" Zhi Xia seemed to have heard this term before, she just didn''t expect it to enter this era so soon.


    To be more precise, it was technology equity investment, followed by direct controlter.


    "Yes, so this year''s orders have been greatly affected. Now is already the off season. In another two months, the fan factory will probably have to stop production. Other categories can persist a little longer, but they have also been greatly impacted to varying degrees.��


    Jiang Tao stated his opinion. In his mind, the product quality generated by foreign capital technology equity investment was not much better than Hongfeng��s. Hongfeng had always been the industry leader, otherwise it could not have been the boss for so long.


    It was just that affixing thebel of foreign capital, people in China generally believed that foreign goods were better than domestic ones. This was where Hongfeng wascking.

 Chapter 407: 407 is like being electrocuted.

    <h4>Chapter 407</h4>


    "Since you also think there is no problem with our technology and quality, and there is no shortage of funds, there is no need to ept other people''s financing. As for other aspects, we just need to do our own products with a clear conscience. Although many technologies in foreign countries are indeed more mature than those in China, not all of them are better than ours. At least the technology of Maple Red now is not inferior to theirs. This will be clear over time. As for sales issues, we can also change our thinking and work harder in other aspects, such as making the exterior more beautiful,pact, lightweight and reducing power consumption. These are our advantages..." After An ZhiXian finished speaking, Jiang Tao nodded. "Okay, then I''ll let the design department try some small and cute fans."


    In fact, he also felt it was not worth it to give away shares to others just because of a foreign name, when there was no gap in technology.


    But this was the trend, the situation forced him, and his current position and pressure were equal. Naturally, he had to be cautious in everything, for fear of making a wrong step that would lead to total loss.


    When she returned home, the triplets and little six had also finished school.


    Sister Zhang cooked a very rich dinner, with generous portions of three dishes and one soup, and steamedrge, crystal white rice.


    Although Chenye and Wanqing did not eat at home anymore, the triplets were at the age of growing up. And the three of them atepetitively, each one able to eat more than thest, that even An ZhiXian sometimes couldn''t help wanting to call them "food barrels".


    And little six, seeing his brothers eat a lot, followed along, and was now a little fat dumpling, with his weight having surpassed An ZhiXian''sst year.


    After dinner, as usual, An ZhiXian chatted with the children for a while. Sui Sui, the eldest daughter of fourth brother''s family, suddenly ran over with red eyes and said, "Auntie, my mom asked me toe over and call you. Grandma is here, crying badly at our house."


    "Okay, then I''ll go take a look."


    When An ZhiXian went over, she could still hear the crying andining soundsing from inside.


    As soon as she went in, Su Ying seemed to see a savior and said, "An ZhiXian, you''re here."


    Zhou Nan quickly wiped away her tears and looked at An ZhiXian with some unease when she turned her head.


    She had always known that An ZhiXian was not close to her, and it was her own fault, she had been too confused at that time.


    Thinking carefully, if Gao Meiyun had lived, perhaps An ZhiXian would not have won out emotionally against her. But she had died.


    The dead can''tpete with the living.


    Once dead, they are gone. People who are not often in front of you will slowly fade over time. On the contrary, the person they can see now is An ZhiXian. Over the years, and with the several children she raised that Zhou Nan had also helped take care of and paid attention to, the feelings were naturally iparable to when she first returned.


    But she didn''t want to show her weakness in front of An ZhiXian, as that would be very embarrassing.


    When An ZhiXian looked over today, she realized Zhou Nan was very different from usual.


    Thest time they met, the hair in front of her was noticeably whiter, but this time her whole head was dyed golden yellow, and permed with dense curls, puffing up from the back.


    Seeing An ZhiXian staring at her, Zhou Nan touched her hair uneasily, and exined, "Isn''t curly hair quite popr recently? The hair in front of me was whitening a lot, making me look too old, so I went to the salon to get a nice hairstyle and dye it a color. Doesn''t it look much younger like this?"


    "It does look quite young," An ZhiXian nodded along with her words. "It looks pretty good, where did you get it permed?"


    An ZhiXian was not ttering her. The hairstyle after perming did look much better than before. Combined with Zhou Nan''s fair skin, to put it inly, it looked exotic.


    "At Sister Zhang''s daughter''s ce. I happened to pass by her salon when I went to buy groceries today. I have to say, her salon is running quite well, very busy, and she''s skilled. There were several other curly-haired customers inside. She recognized me and introduced me to a nice hairstyle. She didn''t even want to charge me at first, but how could I do that, I had to force the money on her." Speaking of this, Zhou Nan was quite happy. But thinking of when she got home, her expressionpletely changed. "Then that old jerk, what did he call me? He actually said I was old and starting to be indecent, perming such a foreign devil''s hairstyle, ugly as hell, and insisted I change it back. As if I''m the only one around here with curly hair. The aunties and older women near us have also permed their hair, yet he doesn''t call them old and indecent. He''s just nosy, pissed me off, insisting I change it back. If I had really listened to him and changed it back, what would I have told people tomorrow when they asked why I changed back the nice perm? That my old man thought it looked like a foreign devil and forced me to change it back? Could I admit that? ..."


    Once she started, she spilled it all out without regard for dignity.


    Su Ying couldn''t help but turn her head to hide her smiling expression.


    An ZhiXian also almost broke outughing, but managed to restrain herself and advised, "My dad is just old-fashioned and can''t keep up with the times. The perm does look quite good, it makes me want to follow the trend and get one too."


    "I''ve been wanting to change my hairstyle too. Let me know when you go and I''ll join you two to take a look?" Su Ying chimed in.


    With the distraction, the topic was sidetracked.


    Hearing thepliments, Zhou Nan had felt uneasy at first, but now feltpletely reassured.


    See, everyone else says it looks good, it''s just that old guy who doesn''t like it, so he must have bad taste.


    Just as they were talking, sounds came from outside, and An JingZhi and An ZhiXian came in one after the other.


    An ZhiXian''s face was also clearly holding backughter, as she pretended to keep a poker face while following behind An JingZhi.


    In front of the younger generation, An JingZhi''s face turned red. "I just said a few words to you, and you run to the kids tough at me. Get them to watch a joke too, and you still won''t admit you''re getting more erratic as you age!"


    Seeing that vexing hairstyle, he couldn''t even bear to look at it. How nice and neat it used to be, now it was like it had been electrified.


    "An JingZhi, I''ve run away to hide here from you, yet you still chased over to argue with me?" Now that the children were grown up, Zhou Nan also had more confidence. Her temper had also grown bigger over the years, and she no longer had the obedient demeanor she once had towards An JingZhi, even daring to refute him sometimes.


    Seeing the situation was not good, An ZhiXian hurriedly came forward, "Mom, Dad and I came to bring you home. Dad has realized his mistake, and Grandma has scolded him too. Please forgive him, okay?"


    An ZhiXian looked at An JingZhi as she spoke. "Right, Dad?"


    An JingZhi was also very helpless, but now the whole family was against him. And with his increased age, he also understood what it meant to admit defeat, though very reluctantly. He had no choice but to nod, just unwilling to speak.


    He decided to wear a hat when going out tomorrow, lest acquaintances ask him about Zhou Nan''s perm and cause him embarrassment. He was afraid of losing face.


    A perfectly good hairstyle messed up like it had been electrocuted. He didn''t know what was supposed to look good about it.

 Chapter 408: 408 Life is varied, each has its own way of living.

    <h4>Chapter 408</h4>


    Although he was very unwilling to admit it, he was still forced to nod his head, "Um."


    Zhou Nan was only slightly reassured, arrogantly revealing a smile with her chin raised.


    "What are you still stunned for? Let''s go, let''s go home!"


    An JingZhi''s shout immediately reignited Zhou Nan''s anger that had just been suppressed.


    An ZhiXian saw that things were not going well, and quickly went to mediate, then turned back to warn An JingZhi, "Dad, don''t forget what grandma said, if mom doesn''t go back, starting tomorrow morning you will wash clothes and cook, and from now on when mom is not at home, you will do her things."


    An JingZhi took a long deep breath to suppress his anger, "I was wrong okay, wife, let''s go home, we are so old already, we shouldn''t let the childrenugh."


    It really is sinful.


    He was nearing retirement age, never admitted defeat in his life, but now that he was old he still had to suffer.


    Only then was Zhou Nan satisfied to go back with him.


    An ZhiXian stayed behind with a helpless smile, "Little sister, sister-inw, I should go back first too."


    "Third brother, don''t rush to leave yet, I have something to tell you," ZhiXia stopped him.


    An ZhiXian looked around and asked her, "Then shall we go to your house?"


    "Let''s go," ZhiXia replied, then called back, "Sister-inw four, then we''ll go first."


    "Okay, you live so close I won''t keep you," Su Ying said.


    ZhiXia and An ZhiXian went together to her living room. She poured him a cup of tea, then sat down across from him.


    She took an envelope out of her bag behind her and handed it to him, "Third brother, this is the rent for your shop. I didn''t give too much, just the market price, please don''t refuse me again, you''ve already refused me twice, if you refuse again this time, I can only move out and return the shop back to you."


    An ZhiXian looked at the envelope and did not take it. He only asked while lifting his head, "Do we have to be so estranged?"


    He was the brother, she was the sister. At the time of separation, they had both known that grandma''s property was given to ZhiXia, but the An family property was given to the brothers.


    He had his own business, but could not go into business. The shop was useless just sitting there, it would be better to let his sister use it than leave it abandoned.


    But ZhiXia''s attitude towards him made him feel too polite.


    He once especially hated the unreasonable andcking self-awareness Gao Meiyun, but with ZhiXia, he hoped she could be more willful, so that they would appear closer.


    "This is not estrangement," ZhiXia exined helplessly, ��Third brother, I know what you''re thinking. You''re all very good brothers. I insist on giving you rent not because I''m estranged from you. If I really thought like that, I would not have epted you giving me the key at the beginning, let alone go use the shop. I just don''t want to be a selfish person. Human greed can slowly amplify. You guys indulging me so much, I''m also afraid of spoiling myself and bing the kind of person I hate most."


    Whether the words of exnation were true or false, they were enough for An ZhiXian to ept the reason.


    "Fine, I''ll ept the rent. After all, money is now what youck the least, Boss An," An ZhiXian joked, "Speaking of which, it''s also unexpected that our An family has been in business for several generations, yet after this change, none of us brothers seem to have inherited the talent for business, but rather you have quite the talent."


    "I don''t have any talent either, I''m just...lucky!"


    In fact, it couldn��t even be considered lucky, it was quite unlucky, but she had seen and understood more than others, so she could grasp opportunities better.


    "Sometimes, luck is also a kind of ability," in An ZhiXian��s opinion, there were also many people with ability but no luck, so in order to seed you needed both.


    An ZhiXian was now at the director level at the hospital, and his daily work kept him very busy, so he rarely had time to chat casually with family like this.


    "Third brother, are you dating anyone?"


    ZhiXia was just curious. After all, An ZhiXian was no longer young. In a few more years he would be forty.


    The other three brothers including herself were already married with children, but only he remained single.


    Every time she went to the An''s house, she could hear Zhou Nan and grandma worrying aloud about him while speaking of him, the most obedient child who didn''t need people to worry when he was little, yet became the most worrisome after growing up, whom they could not urge or persuade no matter how they tried. If they nagged him he would simply live in the hospital and note home.


    "Don''t tell me you want to be like mom and grandma too?" An ZhiXian was clearly already traumatized by the urging to marry. As soon as he heard this, he became guarded.


    "Rest assured, you''re my brother. No matter what I can��t urge your marriage as your big sister. I just want to chat with my brother, is that okay? What do you really think, what��s your attitude towards this matter?" ZhiXia asked.


    An ZhiXian smiled helplessly, reached back to tidy his hair behind his ears, then slumped back in his chair. "Actually there''s not much to think about it. I just feel it��s quite meaningless. Compared to the married people around me, I still prefer living alone. I don''t need to consider other people''s feelings. I don''t need to go home on time for gatherings. And I don''t get nagged by my wife for being busy with work. As for mom and grandma worrying I''ll be lonely when I''m old with no one to keep mepany, I think that''s not bad either. I��ve lived a casual carefree life, so it��s only natural to feel some sense of loss when I��m old. And it''s not like I''m the wasteful type. I can save my wages now and go travel and sightsee when I��m old, ces I wanted to go before but didn��t have the chance. Just thinking about it I feel expectant. Don''t you think?"


    In principle, the living conditions of his family were still better than those of other families, at least financially there was no need to worry.


    But every family had their own problems, this was an unavoidable w in marriage.


    An ZhiXian was impatient to deal with those things. Being single did not hinder others, and since the country had started family nning due to overpoption, him not marrying or having children could also be seen as contributing to the country.


    Moreover, people who could truly understand each other without keeping score were probably only ZhiXia and Pei Jing.


    In all these years of living together, he had never heard of them having a falling out.


    If it were not for that ident between her and Pei Jing, this would probably have been ZhiXia��s ideal life as well.


    However, she was also very happy with her current life and had no regrets.


    No matter what kind of lifestyle, as long as you were happy with it and didn��t waste your time on this earth, that was good.


    The two siblings talked openly, thoroughly understanding each other''s thoughts in a way they never had before, bringing them closer together.


    It waste into the night before An ZhiXian left.


    ZhiXia had wanted him to stay over originally, but he insisted on going back.


    The next morning, Sister Zhang came over to ask ZhiXia, ��ZhiXia, your parents aren��t fighting anymore right? That deadbeat girl from my family, learning a skill and wanting to show off. I scolded her yesterday when she came back. She really shouldn��t have given your mom that perm.��

 Chapter 409: 409 Where Familiarity Comes From

    <h4>Chapter 409</h4>


    She was also quite worried in her heart, afraid that people would think her daughter was trying to make money.


    In fact, when she first learned about this matter yesterday, she thought so too.


    But when she went back and listened to her child''s exnation, she said it quite reasonably.


    Her daughter originally wanted to follow her ssmates to learn hairdressing. Thanks to listening to ZhiXia''s advice to hold onto her, ZhiXiater found her a proper ce to learn skills.


    After that ssmate of hers left, there was no news. Those two years really worried the family. In the previous period, she dide back, but she came back pregnant. No one knew what she was doing outside, and she wouldn''t say when asked, either crying or making trouble, worrying the family.


    In contrast, her own child has now learned the skills, opened a small hair salon, and runs it quite properly, earning more than those who hold iron rice bowls.


    The child also has a kind heart. Seeing Zhou Nan go to the hair salon full of curiosity and envy when seeing others perm their hair, she thought of ZhiXia''s feelings and introduced her to a hairstyle. She didn''t originally intend to charge money at all, and only took half when Zhou Nan insisted.


    She just didn''t expect it to cause such an incident, causing the couple to fight.


    ZhiXia''s father was still a principal. She didn''t expect his thinking to be so old-fashioned. Now perm hair is popr. It''s not that she doesn''t have the means. Her husband worked hard for a lifetime. What''s wrong with perming her hair to dress herself up?


    If she wasn''t annoyed by her messy hair, she would have done one for herself long ago.


    Unfortunately, this could only be thought in her heart and couldn''t be said.


    "It''s alright now, Sister Zhang. My dad is old-minded and can''t ept the new era. Don''t take this matter to heart. After some time, when he gets used to seeing it, he will naturally be less annoyed." ZhiXia said, "I have to say, your daughter''s skills at perming hair are really good. I was still telling Fourth Sister-inwst night to find time to go take a look and change my hairstyle if there''s a suitable one."


    "Oh my, don''t, you two already look good enough without perming," Sister Zhang finally felt relieved and generously praised them.


    Not to mention ZhiXia''s father was old, even she couldn''t stand the sight of that hairstyle at first. But it was said to be popring from the south, and everyone wanted to catch up with the trend.


    She was also worried that if ZhiXia and Su Ying really went to perm their hair and then Pei Jing and An ZhiAng came back and made another fuss, it would be too upsetting.


    Besides, these two looked beautiful with straight and silky hair, and it would be a pity to cut it short for no reason.


    After breakfast, sending the few children out the door, Su Ying came over, "ZhiXia, let''s go, go to the hair salon together?"


    "You really have the heart to do this?" She thought yesterday Su Ying was just casually mentioning it.


    "Of course, changing hairstyles also changes moods. You don''t know, for my job I have to keep up with the trends. Many of my customers now have new hairstyles, making me look a bit countrified." Su Ying said, "But I still want to go take a look first before deciding. See if there are any styles for long hair. My face shape doesn''t suit short hair. I think yours doesn''t either. And your hair is so straight and silky, it took so long to grow this long, it would be a pity to cut it."


    Although ZhiXia and Zhou Nan looked very simr, their temperaments werepletely different. ZhiXia looked more gentle, like a well-read and polite youngdy from years ago.


    Su Ying was also very capable. When the shopping mall first opened, she bought a store inside specifically for private customization. In recent years, she also opened a clothing factory to attract low and mid-end customers with good-looking designs, sessfully upying most of Jincheng''s market and squeezing out the state-run clothing factories nearby to almost no business.


    Discussing all the way, the two of them went over.


    As soon as they entered, they saw a familiar figure that seemed to have just finished her hair and was fiddling with it in front of the mirror.


    Pei Shuangshuang also didn''t expect to meet ZhiXia here. The passing years had taken away her youthful impulsiveness. At least for now there were no harsh words, but also no politeness shown to elders. She just nodded stiffly at ZhiXia.


    She pulled on the sleeves of the man next to her, then the two left together.


    The man next to her looked quite good, wearing a white shirt and long pants. Standing there he gave ZhiXia a feeling of familiarity, but she couldn''t remember where she had seen him.


    When leaving, he even smiled at ZhiXia, a dazzling light shing in his eyes.


    "It really is a small world," Su Ying, who also knew ZhiXia was not close with this niece from her husband''s side, couldn''t help sighing.


    "Let''s not talk about her. She''s not an important person anyway," ZhiXia had just finished speaking when Sister Zhang''s daughter was called out from the back by a shop assistant. Seeing it was ZhiXia, she instantly smiled with her mouth stretched to her ears.


    The young girl was still in high school, no older than 20 years old, but eloquent with an amiable face. Smiling very enthusiastically, clearly suitable for opening a shop and doing business. No wonder she could operate the hair salon with increasing prosperity.


    Under her introduction, ZhiXia and Su Ying changed into two different hairstyles respectively.


    When they came out again, Su Ying had changed to a medium-length wavy bob. Her hair was less well-behaved now, indeed looking more elegant.


    ZhiXia had very good hair quality, so hers wasn''t cut short. Permed it looked slightly shorter than before, but still reached her waist, the wavy style draping loosely over her chest, adding a kind of charm to her entire being.


    Su Ying smiled mischievously, "ZhiXia, if you''re not busy, why don''t we go hang out at dad and mom''s ce for a bit? It''s lunchtime anyway, let''s go eat."


    "Be careful not to anger the old man. As the daughter-inw you''ll have to humor him if that happens," ZhiXia said.


    "It''s just a hair perm, how could that possibly anger him so easily. And like you said, dad just isn''t used to it from seeing it so rarely. If we show ourselves in front of him more, he''ll naturally get ustomed to it."


    In any case, she loved watching the fun without fearing the chaos. They had just gotten new hairstyles after all, of course they had to go out to show off and let people know. So ZhiXia also went along.


    As soon as they entered, they saw Zhou Nan washing vegetables in the yard, frowning bitterly as if greatly aggrieved.


    Although An Jingzhi no longer forced her to undo the perm, he had nagged her all morning until he left for work and her ears finally had some peace and quiet.


    Originally she didn''t have any particr feelings about her hair. But people all have a rebellious mentality. Having endured him for half a lifetime, she perms her hair a little, and still has to suffer his bad temper. She felt more and more upset.


    When Su Ying greeted her, Zhou Nan looked up to see their new hairstyles had changed.


    "Oh my, you two..." She instantly revealed a delighted expression, "I thought you two were just saying thatst night to help me out. I didn''t expect you to really go perm your hair!"


    "Mom, looks good right? We spent a whole morning on this," Su Ying ostentatiously turned a circle in front of Zhou Nan.


    "Very good, very good," Zhou Nan generously praised them.


    ZhiXia went to talk to grandma, while Su Ying helped Zhou Nan wash vegetables. When it was time to get off work, An Jingzhi came in the door and predictably darkened his face when he saw them, but didn''t say anything either, just coldly went inside to read the newspaper. It was unknown whether he had epted it in his heart.


    Surprisingly, An ZhiXian also came back to eat lunch.


    The moment he entered, ZhiXia finally understood where the sense of familiarity from the man at the hair salon came from.

 Chapter 410: 410 Every family has its own problem.

    <h4>Chapter 410</h4>


    ZhiXia''s face changed, and she hurried over, "Third brother,e out with me first."


    An ZhiXian was also taken aback, but still followed his sister''s footsteps, only asking her after getting to the door, "Little sister, I''ve already taken the moneyst night, so you looking for me now..."


    Obviously it wasn''t something that could be said in front of others.


    "Su Ying and I ran into Pei Shuangshuang at the hair salon today." ZhiXia said.


    An ZhiXian was visibly impatient, "I haven''t seen her for a long time, so why mention this?"


    For a while Pei Shuangshuang had pestered him relentlessly,ing to their house every day trying to curry favor with his mother, but it was useless. First of all, there was absolutely no possibility between the two of them, and he didn''t have that kind of feeling for her either.


    Previously he could still treat her like a younger sister, but considering what she had done after growing up, he was now even reluctant to treat her as a sister.


    What was she trying to do?


    Did she want others to see her deep affection?


    Sorry, there was none, only annoyance.


    ZhiXia nodded after making sure An ZhiXian only felt impatience towards Pei Shuangshuang, and truthfully said: "She was getting her hair done at the salon, and had just finished when we went. At the time, a man was standing next to her. That man...looked a lot like you."


    ZhiXia also hesitated before speaking, to give him some mental preparation.


    In case they ran into himter without knowing, it would be awkward.


    An ZhiXian had an expectedly disgusted expression, "Let her do whatever she wants, it''s irrelevant to us. Don''t mention that person to me again in the future."


    If Pei Shuangshuang had been normal, he wouldn''t have said such heartless words. But when he thought of her previous pestering and her now finding a man who looked like him, he felt disgusted.


    What was she trying to do?


    Did she want others to see her affection?


    Sorry, there was none, only annoyance.


    ZhiXia nodded, and Liu Ling happened toe back with the kids at that time, calling out to her happily from afar, "ZhiXia, you permed your hair? It''s quite trendy recently, I was thinking about doing it yesterday too, but you know about my mom''s perm, so I didn''t dare."


    An ZhiXian helplesslyughed, "With my little sister leading the way, sister-inw doesn''t have to worry about dad being angry now."


    "You''re right, but you should''ve called me too since you went. We could''ve helped give suggestions on what would suit me. Let''s go in quickly, it''s too hot outside, and you two don''t find it hot either?" Liu Ling said, then went in to tell her daughter to take a nap, following along herself.


    After they had all gone in and settled down, Liu Ling came out from the room. She greeted An JingZhi and Zhou Nan before sitting down.


    Dinner was rtively peaceful, with An JingZhi and An ZhiXian just chatting about work.


    After the meal, An JingZhi went back to his room for an afternoon nap, while the rest sat in the living room. ZhiXia spoke up, "Sister-inw, when you n to get your hair done you can call me along. This new perm needs a follow up trip for conditioning, or it''ll easily frizz. It''d be perfect if we can go together."


    "Let''s not, I thought about it and as a teacher myself, perming my hair really wouldn''t give a good impression to the students. It''s better to be more low-key. And we don''t live close either, going together would be inconvenient." Liu Ling said, then went to scold her daughter to nap, following along herself.


    ZhiXia frowned, and An ZhiXian patted her arm to signal her to stay calm.


    Zhou Nan said to them: "Next time you two are doing something, also call along your sister-inw. She''s not really ill-intentioned, probably just feels left out by you two going in and out together."


    "I understand." ZhiXia raised her wrist to check her watch, "Grandma, mom, third brother, it''s gettingte so I''ll head back first ande visit you all again next time."


    "I''ll go with you." Su Ying quickly said.


    After they left, Zhou Nan urged them to go slowly. She thenined to the olddy, "Just what sin did Imit to deserve this? Having many children, what''s the use? Busy with this and that every day, still gettingints when I fall short somewhere."


    "Broaden your mindset, I''ve told you before, either don''t manage, or manage fully. You''re upset yourself, who can you me?" olddy said, every family has their own difficulties, who else would know a family''s affairs.


    These children don''t have any malice, and Zhou Nan has done a lot too. But with mouths and teeth, collisions are inevitable sometimes.


    However, Liu Ling did get petty over this matter today.


    ZhiXia and Su Ying live close, so they can run into each other easily. Of course it''s much more convenient than travelling far. And ZhiXia even took initiative to ask to go together next time, yet she outright rejected her.


    Of course, she couldn''t find any actual fault, since there were noints or grievances. But her facial expression from the start of the meal to the end was obvious to all.


    Zhou Nan sighed, but didn''t refute.


    When the eldest son wasn''t home, and the rest unmarried, they inevitably doted more on Liu Ling after she gave birth to the first grandchild. But as each child married and had their own family, it became inappropriate to keep asking Liu Ling to live at home.


    Initially it was fine, the second son didn''t live at home after marrying. ZhiXia being a girl also didn''t interfere much. It was when the fourth son married Su Ying and they lived at the olddy''s that this issue took root.


    Now the olddy moved here, with Su Ying living there alone with her child. Fortunately ZhiXia was nearby so they could take care of each other, and Pei Yong lived behind them, so safety wasn''t a concern.


    It was just that Liu Ling felt they favored the fourth son too much, while she as the eldest daughter-inw still hadn''t established her own household, having to squeeze together with her inws and young uncle.


    But while she dwelled on this, she overlooked how over the years, living in this house with the kids gave her so many benefits. Su Ying had more freedom living alone, but had to bring up her own kids, pay for childcare herself, and didn''t trouble her inws over every little thing.


    These words could only stay in Zhou Nan''s mind, actually arguing over it would still lead to trouble.


    After all, this house belonged to both her and her husband. There was no reason to make the daughter-inw move out.


    Besides, if Liu Ling really wanted to be independent, after teaching for so many years, plus the eldest son''s position, they could easily apply for their own house like the second son did initially.


    The house at the olddy''s was just temporary for Su Ying and family. They never said it was given to them.


    What was meant to be divided had been divided already. The couple just had some personal assets and these two houses left, and they weren''t senile yet. They certainly wouldn''t leave a house solely to any one child.


    When the time came, they''d either sell them, or split evenly. If someone wanted to be greedy in a family with many siblings, they shouldn''t have married into such a family.

 Chapter 411: 411 His Reaction is so bland

    <h4>Chapter 411</h4>


    Zhou Nan felt the most ufortable that they were all still alive, but Liu Ling had already assumed this house was hers.


    Old Third had often lived in the hospital these past few years, not evening back for meals and drinks, although he said he was busy, Liu Ling''s reason was also included.


    Once someone in a family starts keeping scores, that family will no longer be as intimate as before.


    When Zhi Xia and Su Ying went out together, she heard Su Ying advise: "Zhi Xia, sister-inw, don''t take those words to heart just now. We live our own lives, it''s not like we owe her anything. Let her think whatever she wants, as long as she doesn''t say it to our faces, we''ll act like we don''t know. There''s no need to keep scores with her."


    In fact, whether it was the house or not, Su Ying didn''t really mind. She just couldn''t stand Liu Ling''s attitude of taking everything as her own.


    The Su family was also well off back then, and unlike the An family who donated all their assets, in recent years the Su family got back quite a few houses, plus some gold, silver and family treasures hidden away back then. She herself was notcking money.


    Moreover, as the only daughter of the Su family, she had been groomed as the heir since childhood. Now she owned her own clothing factory and private custom brand, her ie was in no way inferior to Zhi Xia''s.


    The reason she lived in her grandparents'' house was first because she was a married daughter, moving back to the Su house would not look good in An Zhiang''s face. Secondly, with her husband rarely home, living close to her sister-inw was just more convenient.


    "I know, sister-inw, it''s better not to overthink." She just didn''t understand why when they first returned, she felt that big sister-inw Liu Ling was pretty good, at least she took care of her, but over the years they were supposed to have grown closer, yet some unpleasantness happened because of her closeness with someone.


    Zhi Xia felt clear in conscience. Whether to her elders or her nephews and nieces, she had never been petty. If she really kept scores on this, then there was nothing Zhi Xia could do.


    Knowing An Jingzhi''s reaction to Zhou Nan''s perm, Zhi Xia couldn''t help but be curious what Pei Jing''s expression would be if he saw her hair.


    She originally thought they might run into each other on social media, but Pei Jing returned home in less than two days.


    The moment he walked in and saw her dramatically changed look, he clearly froze for a second.


    But soon, he adjusted his mood and walked towards her calmly.


    "The little ones are not home?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "They went out to y. These boys have been crazytely, each one more mischievous than thest. Anyway, they''re old enough now, I didn''t stop them, as long as they don''t make big mistakes." Zhi Xia looked at the hand he held out and put hers in his palms and stood on her toes, asking him, "Youe home and ask about the kids first. Didn''t you notice anything different about me?"


    Pei Jing nced towards the yard, didn''t see sister Zhang and retracted his eyes. "Of course I noticed, you look...prettier, it''s just that this hair..."


    "What about my hair?" Unable to stand his hesitance, Zhi Xia anxiously asked.


    "Beautiful!" Pei Jing deliberatelyughed and pulled her into his arms.


    "You''re also acting all breathless. Who taught you that!" Zhi Xia rolled her eyes at him.


    After entering the house, Pei Jing asked her, "Your straight and silky hair looked nice too, why did you suddenly think of perming it?"


    He knew perms were quite popr in more liberal regions, though he didn''t know when the trend spread to Jin City.


    "Well this whole thing, it''s kind of a long story!" Zhi Xia told him about Zhou Nan''s perm story. She only casually suggested it at first, but after she spoke of it, the idea gradually grew on her.


    "All grown up and still so naughty, teasing dad like this with sister-inw, wouldn''t you anger dad to death?" Pei Jing could clearly imagine what An Jingzhi''s ck face would look like.


    "Can''t be helped, it''s his own fault for being such a fogey. It''s just a perm, why make a big fuss of it." Zhi Xiained after entering the room and hugged him affectionately around his neck, tiptoeing to kiss his cheek, "That''s your reward for behaving well today by not making a scene like dad did."


    "That''s not enough." Pei Jing swiftly pulled her closer by the waist, pressing their bodies tightly against one another.


    Their kisses grew deeper and more fiery.


    "Mom, dad is back right?" The sudden voice outside made them panic and promptly let go of each other.


    Zhi Xia quickly turned her head away, afraid he might see the smeared color on her lips.


    "Pei Chenyou, don''t you know to knock?" Pei Jing headed out and twirled thed right around to face outside.


    "I was just too thrilled, saw the car in the yard as soon as I came home and guessed it must be my dear dad back..." Little Sixth looked back and gave Pei Jing a big bear hug. The older this boy grew, the glibber he became, just like someone else he knew.


    Compared to him, PingAn standing by was the picture ofposed obedience, pleasant just to look at.


    "That mouth of yours, still no restraint at your age." Pei Jing merely scolded him lightly.


    As boys grew older, they tended to stick to their dads because their mindsets were more simr.


    Sometimes Zhi Xia felt quite jealous about it.


    Luckily there was still her sweetie pie daughter at home who always came back during holidays, even bringing her gifts, utterly spoiling her mom. That was one thing Pei Jing couldn''t beat her at.


    Inside, after Zhi Xia had tidied herself, she could still hear Little Sixth''s chattering outside.


    Looking out the window, all three were in the yard. Little Sixth reporting his recent antics to Pei Jing and PingAn silently listening with a smile, such a harmonious sight.


    Having several kids at home also had its downsides, mainly they took up too much of their private time.


    Not untilte into the night after sending away his sons, Pei Jing finally had his wife to himself.


    Bodies smelling fresh from their baths, the couple chatted casually until things gradually heated up again, and the moon shyly hid among the branches...


    Jiang Tao informed Zhi Xia about a charity auction dinner tomorrow night to fund education issues for children in mountain regions.


    These kind of events weremon but Zhi Xia only attended the first couple,ter she let Jiang Tao represent to handle them.


    At her door, she happened to meet Su Ying who also brought up the event, apparently she received an invitation too.


    Zhi Xia didn''t originally n on going but considering Pei Jing said he was going out with friends tomorrow night, probablying homete, and that Su Ying was going too, Zhi Xia decided she might as well just kill some time by attending.

 Chapter 412: 412 Season Auction House

    <h4>Chapter 412</h4>


    The second day at lunchtime, Su Ying came to find Zhi Xia and said, ��Although this permed hair looks good, it��s too hard to take care of it by myself. Didn''t someone give us a free salon treatment? Let''s just go get it done this afternoon, so it looks nice for the auction tonight.��


    ��Alright, let''s go after we finish eating.�� Since it takes a long time to do hair, it won''t be toote toe back and change clothes after we''re done.


    Speaking of which, these kinds of evening parties and banquets have only be popr in thest couple years, brought back by those who fled to Hong Kong before.


    Now that people have money, they care a lot more about reputation, whether their charity is genuine or not. If you do it, there will always be people who benefit.


    After lunch, Zhi Xia told Pei Jing and then went out with Su Ying. If Su Ying and Zhi Xia had known they would run into Liu Ling at the door, they probably wouldn''t have chosen toe here together today.


    "Sister-inw..." Zhi Xia and Su Ying greeted her politely.


    Liu Ling also nodded at them. She was with a teacher, a colleague from her school. Since the kids were all in elementary school at the one where Liu Ling worked, they were familiar with most of the teachers there.


    Liu Ling started chatting with her colleague again, her attitude toward the two of them remaining cold from start to finish.


    Zhi Xia and Su Ying looked at each other, both feeling very helpless.


    Liu Ling''s colleague was also puzzled, nudging her arm and whispering, "Isn''t that your little sister-inw? You two used to get along well before, howe you''re so cold now?"


    "How can youpare it to the past? Ever since our second brother married his wife, they haven''t stayed home for long. It used to be just me as the sister-inw around, and now there''s another one, isn''t there?" Liu Ling said.


    Hearing this, the other woman instantly understood.


    But with family matters like these, between the sister-inw and little sister-inw, it was hard to judge right and wrong, so she chose to keep quiet and change the subject.


    Zhang''s wife hurried over to greet the two girls. It wasn''t the weekend today, so there were only a couple peopleing in for haircuts, not too busy at all.


    After Zhi Xia and Su Ying got their hair done, even though Zhi Xia didn''t want to, she still went up and said, "Sister-inw, Su Ying and I are finished, so we''ll head back first."


    "Mm." Liu Ling nodded.


    Once they got outside, Zhi Xia let out a long sigh, rolling her eyes in frustration.


    Su Ying wasn''t hot-tempered, and she often had to deal with all sorts of people in business, so she operated with a smile to greet others.


    But after being stifled like this today, she really felt dissatisfied. As soon as they got outside, she couldn''t hold back. "We''ve done everything we should on our end. If sister-inw is still unhappy in her heart, there''s nothing we can do. We can''t tiptoe around her emotions at the expense of making ourselves ufortable."


    She and Zhi Xia lived close by, so they ran into each othering and going, greeting each other several times a day.


    Plus, Zhi Xia needed to attend banquets, and she knew more about the kind of clothes and things the family wore, so the two often interacted.


    Was Liu Ling going to insist on nitpicking this point, refusing to let her and Zhi Xia speak from now on?


    "Let''s go back and get changed for the auction," Zhi Xia said, not venting her unhappiness to Su Ying. She was the little sister-inw and Liu Ling was the sister-inw, but between her and Su Ying they were sisters-inw, and conflicts tended to arise more easily between sisters-inw than aunt and niece.


    Zhi Xia''s closet at home had gone from one unit to a whole row. Plus, with the kids getting bigger, they each had their own rooms now. The children''s things had gradually been removed, leaving her with more space of her own.


    Opening the closet, it was filled to the brim with her clothes. And this wasn''t even that many - most were still in her storage space, along with the clothes and essories gifted by her interspatial girlfriends.


    Zhi Xia chose a more formal ck ankle-length dress, with a thin ovey of gauze. On her feet were some pearl-set high heels thatplemented her figure.


    For essories, she selected a pearl set that seemed to match the outfit best.


    The lights were justing on for the evening. Looking at Zhi Xia''s shoes, Su Ying said, "Sometimes I don''t get it - where do you buy so many nice shoes from? Each pair is so beautiful, yet uniquely different from the others."


    Of course she didn''t know these came easily for Zhi Xia through the interspatial trading hub.


    Zhi Xia had also given her several pairs of shoes that Su Ying loved wearing.


    She worked in fashion herself, so she had a keen eye for stylish things like this. Good clothes needed good shoes toplete the look, but even having gone to Shanghai and Hong Kong herself, she still felt many things didn''t measure up to Zhi Xia''s in either quality or ir.


    "An overseas client helped source them for me. They don''t cost much anyway, so whenever she finds nice ones I have her buy them for me to collect," Zhi Xia could only exin it like this.


    For others, each pair might be exorbitantly priced, but for her they came extremely easily.


    Just from the resources her zombie girlfriends had given her over the years, there were many luxury goods included, though some brands didn''t exist in this world, so they weren''t conspicuous here.


    But in terms of workmanship, quality, and style, things were naturally better in more advanced societies.


    "No wonder. If it''s convenient, could you also buy some pairs for me? I''ll pay," Su Ying said. "I can design the clothes myself, but I can''t make shoes - embroidered shoes are fine, but that''s it."


    Zhi Xia agreed to get some for her in a while.


    She wasn''t petty about money herself. She valued rtionships, and her brothers all treated her well, so she treated their wives like her own sisters.


    Even with her second sister-inw living far away, she would often send gifts to them and the kids, lest distance strain their ties. And they would send local specialties back, the value mattered less than the thought behind it.


    Otherwise, without contact over long distances, feelings would inevitably grow weaker.


    But she truly hadn''t expected to somehow develop this baseless conflict with Liu Ling, over reasons that didn''t even count as reasons.


    Cars from 1986 were still rare, but not as rare as before.


    Pei Jing had dropped them off, and after the two got out, he went to his own appointment.


    The Ji Auction House had been very famous in the Republican Era, even continuing into the early PRC days. But during the special period after, they were forced to close down, and the Ji family, young and old, left this ce.


    It wasn''t until two years ago that they moved back as a family. Leaving in defeat, but returning in glory, swiftly making a name in Jincheng under the banner of charity.

 Chapter 413: 413 Unknown Painters and Works

    <h4>Chapter 413</h4>


    Only now the times are different, and auction houses can''t do business as easily. In addition, over these years the Ji Family has been developing outward and has started doing sales of jewelry.


    So Shi Xia had been very suspicious all along that this charity auction holding up the banner of phnthropy could very well be a covert jewelry auction for the Ji Family, since the auctioned items were all provided by the Ji Family.


    Moreover, under the name of charity, many people were no longer particr about the intrinsic value of the jewelry. Anyway, no matter how much they spent, the money ultimately went to charity. They got the goods and a good name.


    When Shi Xia and Su Ying first walked in, the person in charge of the Ji Family came over to greet them.


    The two of them ate the dividend of the times and belonged to the first batch of businessmen to develop in Jin City. Although they might notpare to those foreigners who hade back from abroad, they were sufficiently impressive.


    Shi Xia and Su Ying''s seats were in the middle. Since they came together, they were also arranged to sit together.


    Soon, the auction started.


    But unlikest time, this auction didn''t only have jewelry, it also had some jadeite and antique calligraphy and painting. Even the ink treasures of some currently famous calligraphers and painters in the literary world were included.


    Since they took the trip here, they certainly didn''te just to watch. Even if only for their own and theirpany''s face, they had to bid on one or two items.


    Su Ying bid on arge gold bracelet right at the start. It was iid with gemstones and was said to be an antique. It cost her four to five thousand.


    They didn''t know much about antiques, but gold and gemstones couldn''t be fake. Plus the style was quite beautiful. Bringing it back to wear for fun wouldn''t be excessive.


    Shi Xia also bid on a jade pendant and a rough stone. A so-called rough stone was an uncarved piece of jadeite. On the outside it looked simr to a rock, but ording to the introduction, this was extremely popr for rock gambling in a certain ce. With good luck there could be superb jadeite inside, with bad luck it was purely a rock you bought.


    Su Ying urged her not to gamble, but Shi Xia felt it didn''t matter. Anyway, it was for charity. She hadn''t tried this before and wanted to give it a shot.


    Even if she lost, it was only a little over a thousand.


    Seeing her casual attitude, Su Ying didn''t continue persuading her.


    After the two of them made a symbolic bid, they stopped paying attention. Instead, they whispered quietly to each other.


    But asionally they also noticed the items on stage. If they liked it, they could bid again, nothing wrong with that.


    Until an enormous oil painting was carried up on stage, Shi Xia''s expression instantly turned cold.


    "This oil painting uses a Western style. It''s also a work by Mu Yang, a painter with a little fame here in Jin City. He painted it for his fianc��e. I heard this charity auction to support students in mountain areas was his idea, and he specially donated this work. The opening bid is five hundred, going up by increments of one hundred..."


    Nobody had heard of this painter called Mu Yang, but this painting caused quite a stir.


    The painting depicted a woman, presumably Mu Yang''s fianc��e. The woman appeared to be in her twenties. She leaned sideways on a couch. Her upper body waspletely covered by her long hair. Her lower triangr region was covered by a thinyer of gauze, vaguely discernible. Her t belly, slender legs - everything made thedies avert their eyes and the gentlemen salivate.


    The previously quiet auction suddenly became noisy. Those more knowledgeable called it "art." Some gentlemen called it indecent.


    "Shi Xia, the woman in this painting..." Su Ying stared nkly at the front, almost unable to believe it. She secretly swallowed and didn''t dare look at Shi Xia''s expression.


    The price rapidly went up to one thousand, two thousand...five thousand...


    It kept soaring until it stopped at seventy-five hundred.


    Right before the auctioneer''s gavel fell, Shi Xia raised her paddle and shouted out a bid. "Ten thousand."


    She practically gnashed out this number. She hated that she hadn''te to this auction today. But she thought, if that really happened, the consequences would be even harder to predict.


    If this painting got out, their reputation would surely be ruined.


    A bid of 10,000 wasn''t the highest bid of this auction, but it was the least worthy item. Moreover, the painter was aplete no-name. Even the people present hadn''t heard of Mu Yang.


    For men, buying it could satisfy their private desires. They could call it a visual feast. But aside from Su Ying next to her, probably no one could guess why Shi Xia, a woman, would bid on such a painting, pointlessly sullying her own reputation and giving rise to spection.


    Seeing the auctioneer announce she had won the bid, and the painting be covered up and carried to the back, Shi Xia finally rxed. Shepletely lost interest in the rest of the auction.


    She whispered to Su Ying beside her, "Sister-inw, I''m going back first."


    "I''ll go with you. I already bid on a couple items, so that shows goodwill. Leaving now, nobody will say anything." Su Ying didn''t feel assured letting Shi Xia leave alone.


    Shi Xia nodded. The two of them left their seats.


    Naturally others woulde to handle the remaining matters.


    In principle, Shi Xia could directly leave, but she didn''t. Instead, she and Su Ying found the person in charge of the auction and requested to take the painting first.


    This wasn''t exactly rude. After all, her status was clear. Apany that huge, they wouldn''t dare welsh on payments afterward.


    But herck ofposure still drew others'' attention.


    Ji ChengFeng was the person currently responsible for his family''s development in Jin City. He had heard of Shi Xia''s famous name long ago, justcked a special opportunity to interact.


    At this time, he couldn''t help bute over and ask, "Chairwoman An, pardon my rudeness for asking, but do you recognize the woman in this painting?"


    ording to the painter Mu Yang, the woman in the painting was his fianc��e. But they just smiled without replying.


    After all, the painting was so explicit. If she was a lover it could be exined, but which normal person would paint their own fianc��e like this? Moreover, donating it to a charity auction for sale without asking for a cent?


    They could understand Mu Yang''s approach.


    Although he didn''t ask for anything for the painting, a painting like this was already enough to attract attention. As long as it sold for a decent price at auction, his own fame would rise, and naturally hister works would also gain value.


    Many celebrities in the arts world originally built their names this way.


    "My apologies Manager Ji, I can''t answer that question, but I have an imposition to ask. I hope you can help." Shi Xia spoke those words very prudently and politely. After all, this was a major issue. If handled improperly even she and Pei Jing would get implicated.


    "Chairwoman An, please go ahead." Ji ChengFeng was several years older than Shi Xia. He went abroad very young and after being polished by those years and his family background, his every action showed refined manners.


    "I want to take this painting now. Please Manager Ji, could you do me this favor?" Shi Xia said, "I''ll have someonee tomorrow to handle the payment for the other items I won."

 Chapter 414: 414 Same result, Different Meaning.

    <h4>Chapter 414</h4>


    There are rules for auctions, and normally a certain deposit would need to be paid beforehand to prevent people from bidding without paying.


    However, charity auctions are different. Held under the name of doing charity, the invited attendees were all prominent figures, so naturally there was no need to worry about this and no prior deposits were collected.


    After all, the Ji Family took the initiative to invite others to participate, and still needed to extract money from them to eagerly buy those items that werepletely above value.


    Although ZhiXia An refused to answer, Ji ChengFeng was no fool and could guess from her actions that she was familiar with the woman in the painting, which was why she desperately tried to prevent the painting from falling into other hands, and didn��t even feel assured toe back for it tomorrow, impatient to the point of wanting to take the painting with her on the spot.


    But this did not hinder anything, Ji ChengFeng was willing to give her this favor.


    The Ji Family had just returned and was in the jewellery business, so they naturally did not want to offend these wealthy women.


    Moreover, ZhiXia An��s reputation was no small matter, and she also had a lot of face in the government.


    Thend development of the city center street was originally sessful, and he also wanted a share in real estate, so he was particrly concerned about the second round of bidding for thend.


    But ording to the winds revealed from above, he heard that the government did not intend to cooperate with other developers this time, because the sess of the city center street was inseparable from the cooperation of ZhiXia An, and could be considered a win-win result for both parties.


    The Ji Family still had their main base overseas, and for now only he was here to lead the effort. The government was also afraid that what happenedst time with Hong Kong businessmen fleeing would happen again. By that time, they wouldn��t be able to find another ZhiXia An to help prop things up.


    ��Since Director An has spoken, it is naturally no problem.�� Ji ChengFeng said gently with a smile, ��This painting is quiterge, I suppose it would be difficult for Director An and Factory Chief Su to carry. Do you need me to have someone deliver it back for you?��


    ��There is no need, but thank you for your kind offer, Mr. Ji."


    After some polite exchange, Ji ChengFeng as the person in charge of the auction went to attend to his own matters, while An ZhiXia waited peacefully on her side.


    Perhaps the distance was far, but it took Pei Jing nearly half an hour to arrive, along with two friends that ZhiXia An had seen before. They should have been eating together and happened toe over together.


    ��What��s going on?�� Pei Jing��s usually calm and unruffled face showed panic. He also judged ording to the message ZhiXia An sent asking him toe over quickly that something must have happened on her side.


    He had just sent them over before leaving to the ce he had agreed to meet his friends. He had barely eaten a few bites when he hurried over with two friends again.


    With outsiders around, ZhiXia An could not exin the specifics to him, she just said, "Nothing much, I just won a painting at auction, it��s quite big, and the two of us can��t carry it back, so I called you over to help, sorry to interrupt your gathering."


    "No interruption at all, sister-inw is too polite." Although he said this, he probably had some thoughts in his heart.


    Knowing that Pei Jing was going out to dine, she still specially asked him toe over because she won a painting. That would look unreasonable no matter whose eyes it was seen through.


    Fortunately, Pei Jing was not angry, but breathed a sigh of relief instead, "You gave me a shock, I thought something happened to you two, as long as nothing happened then all is good. Where is the painting? Let''s go."


    "It''s this one." ZhiXia An pointed to the painting beside her. She and Su Ying had been waiting here without leaving.


    Pei Jing looked back at his two friends and said, "I��ll have to trouble you two to run this errand with me again, but I��ll still need your help to get it into the car. Come over to my house tomorrow and I��ll treat you to some drinks."


    "No trouble at all, but you''ll have to bring out your best wine to entertain us."


    Joking around, they went to help carry the painting out.


    The rectangr painting was about one and a half meters long. One person could carry it alone, but two would definitely be more convenient.


    With his friends helping to carry it, ZhiXia An and Su Ying did not need to lend a hand and just followed behind out.


    The painting was quite long. Fortunately, his car was an off-road type with an open back connected to the front section. With half of it poking out to the front passenger side, someone had to use their hand to brace it from the front seat.


    Pei Jing drove to send his two friends home first before taking ZhiXia An and Su Ying back.


    But his expression became serious after getting into the car. "What exactly is going on? What''s the issue with this painting?"


    He knew ZhiXia An well. She was not the dramatic or pretentious type. If it wasn''t an extremely urgent matter, she wouldn''t specifically ask him toe over quickly when she knew he was dining with friends.


    ZhiXia An also dropped her fake smile, her face bing weary. "Let''s talk when we get home. You''ll know when we get back."


    Pei Jing nced at her as he was driving but did not continue questioning.


    When they arrived home, Su Ying got out of the car and tactfully said, "It''ste, I''ll head back first. You two talk things through when you get home, don''t rush it."


    This should be considered the Pei family��s family affairs. As an outsider, she should not interfere too much either. This demonstrated Su Ying''s understanding of boundaries.


    No matter how good one''s rtionship is, a certain distance needs to be maintained and one shouldn''t poke their nose into everything indiscriminately.


    Even if help is needed, one should wait for the other party to take the initiative to ask, instead of forcing oneself upon the situation.


    Pei Jing already knew it was no small matter, but at this moment, he sensed even more the severity of the situation.


    ZhiXia An sighed before softly telling Pei Jing about the matter, now that there were no outsiders around.


    The usually emotionally stable man couldn��t help but be furious too, clenching his fists tightly until the veins on his arms popped out.


    "Don''t be angry for now, resolving the issue is the most urgent thing right now." ZhiXia An asked him, "What do you think, should we leave the painting at our house first, or send it directly to the back?"


    "We''ll have to let big brother know about this sooner orter, keeping it from him isn''t right." A sudden sense of powerlessness surged up in Pei Jing. "You don''t have to go, I''ll drive the car directly there."


    "Okay." ZhiXia An also did not want to get involved. Even though she bid a high price for the painting, she only did so to protect her own family''s reputation. After all if the painting spread out, their rtives and friends would not look good. Moreover, she was considered a celebrity of sorts in Jing City now.


    Late at night, ZhiXia An closed the door after hearing Pei Jing��s car leaving. She did not know how the brothers would discuss resolving this, or how many more paintings like this existed. She could only hope that things would not get too ugly.


    Even though she had never gotten along well with Pei Shuangshuang, she sincerely wished that in this matter, thetter would not appear too stupid - as the victim rather than willingly posing as a model for such a painting.


    Although the result was the same, the meanings werepletely different.


    Pei Yong was already asleep at this time and hurriedly got up when he heard knocking on the door outside, asking aloud, ��Who is it?�� before opening the door.

 Chapter 415: 415 Devastating Blows

    <h4>Chapter 415</h4>


    When Pei Jing opened the door, he said in a low, hoarse voice, as if he had suffered a huge blow, ��Big brother, it��s me.��


    Although it had only been a few minutes, Pei Jing seemedpletely different in front of Pei Yongpared to in front of Wang Yue.


    "What''s going on sote at night?" Pei Yong could tell something was wrong with him, otherwise he wouldn''t havee over at this time when he should have been asleep.


    Pei Jing shook his head, reluctant to say what had happened, but he really couldn''t keep it from him now, because this was no longer just his big brother''s family matter, but it concerned the entire Pei family''s reputation.


    Especially for the girls in the family, it would be a devastating blow.


    "There''s a painting in the back of my car that Pei Shuangshuang bid on at a charity auction today. I haven''t seen it yet. Big brother, please help carry it in first and take a look before we talk." Pei Jing said.


    Pei Yong still didn''t know what was going on, nor did he understand why the painting Pei Shuangshuang bid on had to be brought to his house. Plus Pei Jing''s mood was so off.


    Full of doubts, Pei Yong started to carry in the painting first.


    In the living room, due to therge size of the painting, it could only be ced on the floor leaning against a chair, still covered with ayer of packaging paper so they couldn''t see the content at all.


    Pei Jing had thought about having him unwrap the painting so he would understand right away. After all, it would be hard for him to speak of such an indecent matter.


    But thinking of how his own father had passed away, he was worried that Pei Yong wouldn''t be able to handle the shock.


    It was Pei Yong who noticed his hesitation first and said, "Little brother, just say what you have to say. Your big brother is not without experience in the world, I won''t be so easily knocked down."


    He vaguely guessed that Pei Jing''s words probably had something to do with the painting in front of him.


    But he still could not imagine that the content of the painting would be his own daughter''s near nude figure painting.


    At first, he even doubted Pei Jing''s words, thinking he must have gotten it wrong. There''s no way Pei Shuangshuang would do something so disgraceful to herself.


    Pei Yong twisted his mouth. He realized no matter what he said now would be superfluous.


    He started tearing at the painting packaging, moving very roughly.


    At this moment, he was still thinking that perhaps Pei Jing and Pei Shuangshuang were just ying a joke on him. But this joke was not funny at all. Daring to make fun of such matters with him, he would definitely give Pei Jing a good scolding after taking off the packaging and confirming it wasn''t Pei Shuangshuang.


    In fact, Pei Jing had not seen the content of the painting either. Even just hearing Pei Shuangshuang''s description, he felt it was so indecent.


    Most importantly, the person in the painting was his niece. How could he as an uncle look?


    Pei Jing turned his back to the distance. He also hoped this was not real. He even hoped that after Pei Yong unwrapped the painting and found it wasn''t Pei Shuangshuang, he would turn around and beat him up. He would be willing to take that.


    But the reality was that the tearing sound behind him stopped, and there wasplete silence for a good while.


    Pei Jing still didn''t dare to turn around, afraid to see the indecent scene, even afraid to confirm it.


    It was a few minutester when he finally heard a sound. During this time, neither of the two brothers said anything, and Pei Jing kept his back turned the whole time.


    Pei Yong''s eyes were red as he re-covered the painting, forcibly suppressing the urge to kick and smash it to pieces.


    But he knew he could not do that. If Pei Shuangshuang had been harmed by someone, if someone had deliberately painted such a humiliating portrait of her, then the object in front of him was evidence.


    Up until now, he still believed in his daughter. No matter how willful or muddled she was, at least he knew she understood what decency meant.


    Only then did Pei Jing dare to turn around.


    Most of the painting was covered up again, only revealing the face and neck covered by long hair and chest area.


    He only nced at it for a moment before averting his eyes, but that was enough to confirm the person in the painting was Pei Shuangshuang.


    She had blurry,nguid eyes full ofzy sensuality, as if aroused.


    He, as an uncle, should not say this, but the fact was just so.


    "Jing, you go back first. It''ste tonight. I''ll go to Shuangshuang tomorrow morning and ask. Maybe...maybe she doesn''t know about this. It couldn''t be voluntary."


    He had heard from Jian Guo long ago that she was dating an artist who painted. Because of the divorce with Wang Yue, Pei Shuangshuang had always hated him as a father. He didn''t dare interfere much with her affairs either, and was extra cautious when they met.


    He didn''t expect his daughter to forgive him, as long as she was living well herself, he could rest assured.


    When he learned she was seeing someone, he had asked about it, but her emotions were aroused then, her words full of sarcasm, which also made Pei Yong leave feeling dejected.


    He never thought such an ident would happen now. If he had known earlier, he should not have indulged her temperament, even if she hated him for it, he should have at least met that man.


    Pei Jingforted Pei Yong for a bit, but found that no amount offorting was futile. He could only leave first.


    What he didn''t know was that after he had just left, Pei Yong closed the front door and living room door, shutting himself alone in the living room, and slid to the floor crying.


    The crying was particrly suppressed. At over 60 years old, even wanting to cry was wishful thinking, he had to sneak off alone, not daring to let others see, let alone allow his sleeping grandson in the bedroom to hear.


    The car stopped in the yard. Pei Shuangshuang had tidied herself up but hadn''t fallen asleep yet.


    When Pei Jing came in from outside, she hurriedly asked, "Is big brother okay? What did he say?"


    "He seemed fine. He thinks Shuangshuang probably doesn''t know about this and wants to ask her first thing tomorrow morning before deciding what to do." Pei Jing said.


    Pei Shuangshuang didn''t dare ask any more.


    Pei Jing was extraordinarily silent tonight. For the first time in their marriage, husband and wife had nothing to say to each other.


    Late into the night, Pei Shuangshuang couldn''t stand the oppressive atmosphere any longer. Turning her body around to face him, she silently hugged his sturdy waist and offeredfort.


    Pei Jing wasn''t asleep yet either. Likewise, he turned back, resting his arm under her neck and hugging her tightly in his embrace.


    Still neither of them spoke, but they could feel each other''s emotions.


    Pei Shuangshuang was worried, mainly about how this would impact and disgrace their family. Pei Jing was also worried, but in addition to those concerns, there was also ayer of heartache and confusion towards his kin and the younger generation.


    Before dawn, Pei Yong went personally to the factory where Pei Shuangshuang worked. The factory gates were not yet open. He lingered outside waiting.


    When the gates finally opened, he was informed that she no longer lived in the dormitory but had moved out some time ago.


    He went next to Wang Yue''s ce. If she didn''t live at the factory, she should be home.


    At this point, he no longer cared about the fear from the depths of his heart that he held towards Wang Yue. After knocking on the door, he hurriedly asked, "Where is Shuangshuang?"


    "Shuangshuang hasn''t lived at home for years now. She''s been staying at the factory dormitory all this time, didn''t you know? Why are youing to the house to look for her?" Wang Yue had gained some weight over the past two years, looking less sharp than before, but still arrogant.

 Chapter 416: 416 Torn Face

    <h4>Chapter 416</h4>


    "Pei Yong, when we divorced, you told me to walk away alone. You said the house and kids were mine. I agreed. I even thought that other than money and living expenses, I hadn''t fulfilled much responsibility for the two kids. Even if they resented me in their hearts in the future, as long as they could have a good life themselves, I''d be willing. "


    Pei Yong''s sincere words sounded to Wang Yue as if he regretted it. She felt a little happy inside, but still kept a cold face, unwilling to say a soft word. "We''ve been divorced for so long. It''s toote for you to regret it now. What''s the point of saying these things!"


    Pei Yong sighed deeply and continued, "I don''t know what you''re thinking, but Shuangshuang isn''t married yet. You''re guarding such a big house alone, driving your son to desperation. You also let Shuangshuang live in the dorm. Aren''t you worried that something might happen to your daughter?"


    "What could happen? She''s not the only one living in the dorm. Plus she didn''t want to stay home herself. What can I do? Should I tie her up at home?" Hearing him me her, Wang Yue became impatient again. "If you have something to say, just say it directly. I don''t have time to chat here with you, Pei Yong. We might as well not waste time. The kids aren''t only mine. If you don''t like how I do it, then go take care of them yourself!"


    She was just being stubborn.


    Home alone facing the empty house, she also felt extremely lonely.


    She had driven her son out at first just wanting him to soften a bit. If he had listened back then, how could things have gotten to this point!


    He had desperately married someone and brought them home, but that didn''t go well either. Now his wife had changed several times already. Wang Yue went from worried at first to used to it now.


    Even if Pei JianGuo said he was getting divorced tomorrow, she wouldn''t find it surprising.


    As for Shuangshuang, she had moved out originally because of conflicts with Lu Keqin. Later, having tasted freedom''s charm, she didn''t want to be nagged at home either.


    Just having stayed up all night because of that painting, Wang Yue now feltpletely helpless hearing Pei Yong''s attitude.


    "Shuangshuang''s nude painting appeared at an auction yesterday. As her mother, do you even know that if Zhixin hadn''t happened to be there too to spend big money buying that painting, your daughter would have already be famous now? Our whole family would be famous!" Pei Yong yelled out these words. After yelling, even he himself started falling apart.


    Wang Yue was also frightened dumb, staring nkly for a long time before speaking up. "That can''t be. Pei Yong, this joke isn''t funny at all. She''s your kid. You can''t wrong her like this. You''ll ruin her..."


    "The painting is in my living room."


    After Pei Yong said that, Wang Yue didn''t even close the door. She ran out in her slippers.


    Pei JianGuo had just gotten to his job when he received his father''s call toe back. They all gathered together in the living room at home.


    In the dark rented apartment, Pei Shuangshuang listened to Mu Yang talking proudly about himself almost nkly.


    His painting had been purchased for the high price of 10,000 RMB. He believed it wouldn''t take long before he would be famous in this circle. His works would be sought after by everyone and he would be a real artist, making both fame and fortune.


    Not like now where he could only squeeze together in this small rental unit, eating cheap meals. Even that depended on a woman''s provisions.


    He had painted it for her when she was aroused by passion for him. He said he loved her appearance in that moment and wanted to preserve it to slowly appreciate.


    She had catered to his preferences letting him manipte her, leaving that kind of painting behind.


    She knew how lewd and sultry it was. In her 30s, she naturally also knew what kind of consequences would follow if the painting spread.


    She wasn''t shameless, just loved him too much and trusted him too deeply.


    But now, looking at this man madly kissing her, full of passion, it made her heart turn cold.


    "What''s wrong baby?"


    Feeling no response from her, Mu Yang stopped and asked her.


    "How could you...take that painting to auction?" Pei Shuangshuang questioned him. "Mu Yang, do you really love me or not?"


    "Of course I love you. It''s precisely because I love you so much that I long even more strongly for sess. I want to give you a better life!" Mu Yang said emotionally. "Baby, don''t you want to be with me forever enjoying the joy of sess? I always thought you were different from others. I chose to sell that painting because I felt it was my best work, also the most perfect and outstanding work. This isn''t just my praise for it, but also the soul you gave it. Don''t think of it as something obscene. It''s art. Do you understand art?"


    "Who bought the painting?" Pei Shuangshuang asked with a shattered face. "I don''t want to talk to you about art right now. That''s your art, something you like. I was willing to like it for your sake, but that doesn''t mean I can shamelessly lose face for you. Mu Yang, you better pray that painting doesn''t make too many waves. Otherwise I won''t let you stay in Jincheng easily!"


    After all, a substitute was still a substitute. No matter how alike, no matter how well it imitated temperament, it could never imitate character.


    Pei Shuangshuang liked his appearance when he quietly painted without speaking. That was when he looked most simr to that person, and also most serious. She also liked when he went crazy for her. Itforted her physically and mentally.


    But now, all the liking copsed at this moment, shattering into fragments that could never be glued back together.


    The scenes appearing in her mind were all of others pointing at her and scolding him for being so shameless behind their backs.


    Just thinking that a nude painting of herself was now exposed to so many people''s eyes made her feel like she might as well be dead.


    Pei Shuangshuang''s words also made Mu Yang realize her anger. He stammered, "I can''t get it back. The bid went through already. I also don''t know who bought it."


    But deep down, he still felt ecstatic. He still felt it wasn''t wrong to take this painting out. A full 10,000 RMB price. Hearing about it made him feel both amazed and regretful.


    Amazed that he would definitely be hugely famous. Regretful that he wouldn''t get a cent of that money.


    Facing such an honest Mu Yang, Pei Shuangshuang held back the urge to take a knife and hack him. "Mu Yang, you''d better pray that painting doesn''t make too big of waves. Otherwise, just you wait!"


    A few years of romance shattered in this moment.

 Chapter 417: 417 Room is Missing and It Rains all night.

    <h4>Chapter 417</h4>


    Pei Yong went to Pei Shuangshuang''s factory to look for her, but after half a day passed noon, he still did not see anyone. She did note to work today at all.


    Pei Shuangshuang, on the other hand, ran home to look for Pei Yong, because after thinking it over, the only person left who could help her resolve this matter was her father.


    But when she arrived at Pei Yong''s ce, not only did she not see anyone, she even saw the furious Wang Yue, as well as the painting ced in the living room.


    Without saying a word, Wang Yue walked over and gave her two loud ps on the face, followed by a torrent of curses and vulgarities that came pouring out unthinkingly.


    At this moment, Pei Shuangshuang was no longer her daughter, but her disgrace.


    Pei JianGuo happened to arrive just as he witnessed this scene.


    In the living room, his mother was beating and scolding away, while his younger sister stood silently to one side, enduring without saying a word. Only the stubbornness in her eyes betrayed her unwillingness.


    "Mom, stop hitting her..." Pei JianGuo quickly went over to stop her, "What on earth is going on?"


    He had just gotten to his workce not too long ago when he received the call and rushed back urgently. The call did not exin things clearly, only saying there was an emergency at home that he had toe back for.


    "Why don''t you ask her what''s going on? I, Wang Yue, lived shrewdly for a lifetime, how could I give birth to such a fool? For a man, she has lost all self-respect..." As Wang Yue spoke, she copsed onto the floor, sobbing with snot and tears running down her face.


    It was only then that Pei JianGuo saw the torn painting on the ground. When he realized what it was, he quickly turned his head away, his expression already turning ugly.


    Looking again at Pei Shuangshuang, the pity in his eyes was reced by the same contemptuous questioning as Wang Yue''s, "Little sister, what exactly is going on? Is it that painter boyfriend of yours?"


    Up till now, Pei JianGuo still could not remember the other party''s name, and never felt that they would end up together.


    After all, in his perception, no matter how silly Pei Shuangshuang was, she would not marry a man who owned nothing. This was just a temporary novelty that she was toying with for fun.


    This had always been his biggest headache, but since persuasion did not work, he could only let her be.


    Pei Shuangshuang turned her head away and nodded.


    Now Pei JianGuo could understand his mother''s breakdown. He was also very devastated, especially after hearing that the painting had been auctioned off at the auction house.


    After failing to find Pei Shuangshuang, Pei Yong also returned from outside. At the corner ahead, he happened to bump into Pei Jing who had juste out with a newspaper in hand.


    Although very reluctant, he still handed the newspaper to Pei Yong.


    What wasing could not be avoided. The matter had already happened, so what they needed to think about now was how to resolve it, not avoid it.


    That morning, when they discovered the news report, they had already started thinking of solutions. But more than just one newspaperpany reported this matter.


    With the astronomical price of 10,000 yuan, the name Mu Yang did quickly be known to the public. But simrly, Pei Shuangshuang was also thoroughly discredited.


    In the eighties and nies, while social attitudes had be somewhat open, they were not that open yet. Vicious gossip truly could cost lives. If Pei Shuangshuang did not understand this, she would not have gotten so furious at Mu Yang.


    Perhaps it was because she had already expected this, plus she had already vented all her anger yesterday. Thus, when Pei Yong received the newspaper, his mood was surprisingly calm.


    "Big brother, this matter can no longer be covered up. Pei Shuangshuang has to stand in the position of the victim in order to salvage some face," said Pei Jing solemnly.


    This was no longer just her problem. His two daughters and Wanqing at home would probably be spat on to death.


    Others would not care if they were innocent. They would only say that having such a sister meant an improper family environment, and they should not be close friends, in case they were also indecent.


    Pei Yong understood the gravity of the situation and nodded. "I know. Ah Jing, I''ll still have to trouble you and Zhi Xia to help handle this. Now that it has already blown up, trying to stop it now would be toote. Not for that scourge, but for the reputation of our Pei family and the other children, we have to get to the bottom of this properly."


    "Mm," Pei Jing responded.


    He had just returned home and was discussing with Zhi Xia about helping to find awyer when he heard Pei Shuangshuang''s miserable screams from the back.


    The screams were far too wretched, sending chills down Zhi Xia''s heart.


    Pei Jing also stood up and said, "Let me go take a look at the back."


    By the time he arrived, Pei Shuangshuang''s leg had already been broken by Pei Yong.


    Pei Yong stood emotionlessly at the door, as if the person whose leg was broken was not his own daughter, and the one who did it was not him either.


    Pei JianGuo and Wang Yue were both at the side, looking on in horror. They had tried to stop him but did not seed.


    Pei Shuangshuangy on the ground writhing in pain, moaning as the hair on her forehead was drenched in cold sweat.


    "JianGuo, take her to the hospital. Then contact the reporters and tell them that Mu Yang secretly drew a painting and sent it for auction. Your sister found out about it this morning and, unable to bear the humiliation, jumped from a building and broke her leg."


    Pei Yong was left with no choice. This was the only way, to portray her as the victim, and salvage what reputation they could for the family.


    And breaking her leg could serve as a lesson for her.


    The technique he used did not damage her bones. After recuperating for a while, there would not be much impairment.


    The Sheng''an Group had a legal department. Thewyer was hired by Zhi Xia at a high sry. Thepany was not involved in anywsuits presently. No one expected that the firstwsuit they would fight would be to salvage the reputation of someone she disliked the most.


    After instructing the legal department to handle this matter properly, she stopped paying attention to it. She left the specifics for them to discuss with Pei Yong.


    After sending Pei Shuangshuang to the hospital, Pei JianGuo hurriedly contacted the newspanies.


    Things had still been fine at noon, but after school in the afternoon, Wanqing, who usually lived in the school dormitory, came home.


    This was the newspanies'' line of work. To attract eyeballs, they revealed the name, address, workce and family background of the person in the painting at the fastest speed possible, exposing everything in that morning''s report.


    Wanqing had already overheard people discussing today''s news report during lunch. No one had known of her rtionship with Pei Shuangshuang initially, but she was so shocked when she saw it herself that some people quickly uncovered her identity from the umon Pei surname.


    Wanqing spent that entire afternoon amidst gossip and rumors, and fled home like she was escaping as soon as school ended.


    The next day, although reluctant, she still went to school. But by noon, she raced home again, refusing to go back no matter what.


    Zhi Xia could probably guess what was happening to the child at school. Even Pei Mengined that she was being pointed and whispered about at her workce, and could hardly continue. Let alone Wanqing who was just a child.


    She simply applied for a leave of absence for her to stay at home, sparing her from listening to disparaging remarks at school.


    Guo Momo worked at the court, but no one expected that she would sue Pei JianGuo at this critical juncture for custody over their child.


    Her rationale was that the Pei family''s ethics were improper, and the child needed a wholesome environment that could nurture the right values.


    Pei JianGuo was at a loss for what to do for a time. He even had a fight with Guo Momo over this, but still could not change her mind.

 Chapter 418: 418 Cycle Progression

    <h4>Chapter 418</h4>


    Pei Shuangshuang''s case was the first to go to court, and the result was also unexpected for Mu Yang. He thought that with Pei Shuangshuang''s feelings for him, even if this matter was exposed, he could get away with it at most and just take some effort to coax her.


    In the past, he had always been arrogant in front of her, and she was willing to tter him, wasn''t she?


    But this time, she was determined to put him in jail, not even eptingpensation.


    The nude painting case had already received wide attention, and the court ruling was even more widely reported.


    Pei Shuangshuang epted interviews as the victim, but that nude painting would eventually ruin her life.


    She won thewsuit, but what she thought was the end was not the end at all, it was just the beginning.


    By the time her legs could slowly stand up, it was already a monthter.


    After this incident, Pei Shuangshuang also became much more silent.


    As soon as she sat down at her job, she started working on today''s tasks.


    The autumn wind was a bit dry, blowing her lips to peel.


    She wanted to ask her colleague next to her to pour her a cup of water, but when she turned her head, she saw everyone staying away from her, and even the look in their eyes had changed.


    If it was before, she would have lost her temper long ago.


    But now, no matter how upset she was, she knew she had to endure it.


    Just like her mother said, time is the best forgetting method. Let her keep a low profile, and when enough time has passed, people will naturally forget about this.


    She took the cup herself, half-limping to the boiler room to pour herself a hot cup of tea.


    Unexpectedly, at the door, she heard the best colleague she used to y with gossiping with others, "I really can''t see that Pei Shuangshuang, you see how arrogant she used to be, with her nose in the air looking down on everyone, I heard that her family conditions are not bad either, her mother is the chief nurse of the hospital, her father is a retired military officer, and her brother also works in the Construction Bureau. I didn''t expect her to be so slutty in private. She acted like she had never seen a man before. She wasn''t even married yet but was already mixing with someone else. Not only did she make that kind of painting with him, she said it was secretly painted by that man. I may not know but how could I not know, she didn''t even go back to the dormitory during that time, she must have rolled around with him, who knows what really happened..."


    ...


    Pei Yong received the call while at work. Pei Shuangshuang was currently in the hospital. Her leg, which had not yet healed, was injured again after fighting with someone.


    After going through so much recently, hearing about something like this, his emotions were very calm.


    Wang Yue was already there when he arrived at the hospital. Pei Shuangshuangy on the hospital bed with an ashen face. Liu Chunhua was busy going back and forth in a panic, being ordered around by Wang Yue.


    It was obvious that she was venting her anger on Liu Chunhua. However, Liu Chunhua was also obedient and did not resist at all.


    Pei Yong walked in and stood in front of her hospital bed, trying to be patient as he spoke, "What''s going on again?"


    After this incident, Wang Yue was also much more timid in front of him. She quickly exined, "The girl is already like this. Don''t be angry with her. This incident was really not Shuangshuang''s fault. It was those gossipy people in the tea room talking badly about Shuangshuang. That''s what caused the dispute. Shuangshuang already had a leg injury. With this fight, it got even worse. The doctor said she needs to be hospitalized for a few days."


    No matter how bad a person is, she always has a fragile side. As Wang Yue spoke, her tears flowed down.


    How could she not feel heartache for her own child?


    Although all of this was expected.


    He couldn''t bring himself to me anymore. Pei Yong gloomily lowered his eyes, "What do you want me to do, just say it straight."


    If they didn''t need something from him, he couldpletely believe that this mother and daughter would not let him know about this at all.


    After all, that''s how they had been in those years before.


    Whenever he tried to get close to Pei Shuangshuang, she would always have an unforgiving attitude.


    He understood. After all, divorce hurts the children the most. But he was not omnipotent either, he would get tired sometimes too.


    He didn''t dare expect anyone to understand him. He just hoped they would make less trouble and cause less incidents, that was good enough.


    "The main reason why Mu Yang hurt Shuangshuang so badly has to do with An San," said Wang Yue as she observed Pei Yong''s expression. Seeing that he just frowned, she continued, "Shuangshuang has liked An ZhiXian for a long time, not just for a day or two. That feeling has been there since childhood. It was only after seeing Mu Yang that day that I realized Shuangshuang didn''t actually like him, she clearly saw ZhiXian''s shadow in him. If not for the third son marrying into the An family, messing up the seniority between the two families, Shuangshuang wouldn''t have lost hope. And there''s also that An ZhiXian, he knew Shuangshuang''s feelings for him but didn''t settle down until now, leaving Shuangshuang uncertain. This is how things got to this point now..."


    Pei Yong finally understood a little. Frowning, he said, "Don''t dwell on this matter. An ZhiXian looks down on your daughter from the start. Just don''t keep humiliating yourselves chasing after him."


    Shuangshuang had gone after him desperately for a period of time before, when she was still a young girl. He didn''t even look at her then.


    Now, having had an affair with a man out of wedlock and made a scandal of herself, known by everyone in Jin City, how could she still have the nerve to pine after him?


    Pei Shuangshuang pulled the quilt over her head and cried under it, "I know I''ve done wrong and embarrassed you all. I don''t deserve An ZhiXian either. But Dad, I can''t take it anymore, I really can''t take it anymore. I can''t stand the way people look at me and talk about me. Just don''t bother with me anymore and let me fend for myself..."


    Wang Yue wiped the corners of her eyes, "We know Shuangshuang is no match for the An family now. Let''s not talk about all those things in the past. Pei Yong, see how pitiful your daughter is, please help her. Find her a remote ce to work so she can avoid the limelight for a few years until people forget about this. You don''t know how badly people outside are talking about her. She really can''t stay here anymore!"


    Wang Yue was also reluctant for Pei Shuangshuang to leave her side, but she had seen her condition these days with her own eyes and was truly worried that she couldn''t handle it.


    The idea of letting her leave to avoid trouble did not just ur to her today, but was carefully considered over many days.


    They didn''t even dare to think about her future prospects now. For a woman it was different from a man. After something like this happening, spit and gossip could drown a person. Just being able to live in peace was better than nothing.


    Wang Yue did not bring up An ZhiXian for no reason. She knew that Pei Yong would definitely refuse before she even asked. She took the opportunity to get him to find a different job for Shuangshuang. With this buildup, it wouldn''t seem so unreasonable for him to agree to such a simple request.


    Sure enough, after the preceding persuasion, he didn''t think the request to change jobs was so unreasonable.


    Pei Yong thought for a long time before speaking, "Let me think carefully about this matter."

 Chapter 419: 419 The Cruelty of Equality

    <h4>Chapter 419</h4>


    "That''s fine, you take your time thinking about it. Pei Shuangshuang is going to be in the hospital for a few days anyway, so there''s no rush," Wang Yue said, understanding Pei Yong well. She knew he hadn''t refused yet, so this matter already had an 80 percent chance of happening.


    In fact, from Pei Yong''s perspective, his thoughts were the same as Wang Yue''s. It would be better to get out of town and avoid the limelight than to stick around here miserably.


    Plus, with what had happened with his sister-inw''s family hating them to death now, he''d heard that it had even affected Xiang Xiang at the Cultural Work Troupe. She was originally up for a promotion but it got suppressed because of this.


    And the kids were being pointed at in school too. Just the other day, PingAn and Little Sixth had gotten into a fight with some kids over it.


    Even though they weren''t helping Pei Shuangshuang, when people pointed and said things like, "Look, that''s her auntie, drawing naked pictures of men, shameless, for shame," even PingAn, who disliked Pei Shuangshuang a lot, would still feel bad hearing talk like that.


    Observing Pei Yong''s expression, Wang Yue tried again when she saw he was seriously considering it. "The child is just too spoiled and naive. She hasn''t experienced much in life and thinks too simply of people. As parents, we''d worry if she was sent somewhere unfamiliar and couldn''t deal with other people. I think the ce Pei Meng is at wouldn''t be bad. Sure, the conditions are a bitcking, but it''s far away so news of things here might not reach there. And Little Third has been there for many years already, he knows all the friends andrades, so with Pei Meng and his wife there too, Shuangshuang would have people to look after her if she went."


    Previously she had been worried about offending Little Second''s family over this, yet she still dared suggest sending Shuangshuang to stay with Pei Meng. If Shuangshuang really went, even if they didn''t curse her it would be getting off lightly.


    Considering how his younger sister and sister-inw had been looking at himtely, Pei Yong already felt ashamed enough.


    "Don''t even think of such nice things. It''ll be good enough if Mengmeng and Xiangxiang don''t hate her, don''t go expecting them to take care of her too." Pei Yong rejected it directly, "Since it''s to avoid drawing attention for now, I''ll arrange a remote ce for you. You should know in your heart to keep a low profile when outside, cause less trouble, and trouble will naturally note finding you."


    ...


    Pei Jianguo met with Guo Momo at a tea house.


    When they met this time, their emotions had stabilizedpared to before when they were confrontational.


    "I definitely want custody of PingAn," Guo Momo said firmly, trying to persuade Pei Jianguo. She didn''t hesitate to use a sob story: "Pei Jianguo, you know that I was left infertile by your younger sister''s harm. I won''t be able to have any more children in my life, so PingAn is my one and only son. Of course I have to fight to get him back. But it''s different for you -pared to me you have a healthy body, a gentle wife at home, you can totally have another child that belongs to you two. Why insist on fighting me for PingAn?"


    She didn''t believe he had much paternal love for PingAn. Back when she and PingAn had been under his nose, he hadn''t paid much attention to PingAn either. Let alone now when the child was older and not by his side, he had probably beenpletely ignored.


    She wasn''t speaking groundlessly. Over the past couple years she had been paying attention to things in this area, constantly preparing to get PingAn back.


    When Pei Jianguo was free he rarely came to Pei Yong Town, and he met up with his child even less. The child didn''t have much affection for him either, this was something she understood.


    So there really wasn''t too much resistance against her getting PingAn back. The real biggest obstacles were PingAn himself and his grandfather Pei Yong.


    But even so, she had no choice but to resolve to take the child back. While PingAn was still young, as long as she was willing to put in effort, she could still coax him over. If they waited until PingAn was older and his personality set, then he would only grow more distant from her, his mother.


    Making this decision caused turmoil in Guo Momo''s heart. But seeing how PingAn''s heart was filled only with his grandfather, and his feelings toward her as his mother grew fainter and fainter, plus remembering the hardships she had suffered raising him those years, she felt truly awful inside.


    "But PingAn is unwilling to go with you. If you insist on making things difficult like this, it will only make PingAn hate you more," Pei Jianguo said. "I admit I''m not a good father, but Guo Momo, you''re not necessarily a good mother either. Fundamentally, the two of us are quite alike. You just hide it better and are more of a hypocrite. Whether it''s PingAn or anything else, everything is measured on scales in your heart. You abandoned PingAn once before for your prospects, and if you had the chance, you would still abandon him a second time, just like after you left I also tried my best to be a good father, but I discovered I couldn''t do it. We''re both very selfish - we can''t even bear our own lives, let alone bear responsibility for someone else''s. PingAn is very happy living dependently with my father, you really shouldn''t be talking about what''s best for him as an excuse to make him leave his most beloved grandfather who also loves him the most."


    "It''s been a few years, and you''ve gotten quite glib," Guo Momo said, using a smile to conceal her expression as she raised her tea to drink.


    What Pei Jianguo said was probably right, but back then, leaving PingAn really had been the only thing she could do. And now that she had seeded and made a name for herself, she waspletely capable of giving PingAn an even better life and education than Pei Yong could.


    She believed Pei Yong''s love for PingAn was no less than hers, but in the end she was still PingAn''s mother while Pei Yong was only his grandfather.


    In response to Guo Momo''s not-aplimentpliment, Pei Jianguo tugged at the corner of his lips. "Still not as good as you though. I looked down on you too much before, Guo Momo. You''re very capable and outstanding."


    "It really is rare to hear words of praise from your mouth." After all, their previous few meetings had been full of nasty words andints.


    "I sincerely want what''s best for PingAn, so I hope you''ll withdraw thewsuit and let PingAn live happily with my dad," Pei Jianguo said, understanding the purpose of his visit today. If they really went to court, he might not necessarily win, since whether it was background or anything else, Guo Momo was no worse off than him now.


    His only advantage probablyy in PingAn himself. The child was very determined that he wanted to live with his grandfather and didn''t want either parent.


    "And you previously contacted Liu Chunhua, so you should have heard from her that I don''t n on having any more children. So PingAn will also be my one and only child."


    Guo Momo said sarcastically, "You really are as cruelly impartial as always to every wife you''ve had."


    That was the only phrase she could use to describe Pei Jianguo.


    Pei Jianguo didn''t deny it. Perhaps he was no good, but with Liu Chunhua, he had given her the right to choose more than once, and she had been willing.


    "The rest doesn''t matter, but I can''t give up on PingAn. Pei Jianguo, you also know that you won''t win if we go to court, so why not be more decisive about it and minimize disputes between us. At least then when you want to see your child in the future, we can still sit down peacefully instead of tearing our faces."

 Chapter 420: 420 The Impact of Events

    <h4>Chapter 420</h4>


    These words were clearly threatening.


    But Guo Momo ignored one problem.


    When PingAn was with Pei Yong, Pei JianGuo seldom went to see him, let alone if he went with Guo Momo.


    It was likely that the father and son would truly be like strangers for the rest of their lives.


    Neither person was willing topromise, so this conversation was destined to end unhappily.


    There were some divorce cases in the country now, but fighting over custody was really the first case.


    People generally assumed the child belonged to the father by default, which was the traditional view passed down over thousands of years.


    So this battle over custody attracted a lot of attention from all sides, especially since the man was the biological elder brother of the female lead in the recent nude painting scandal. This made many people feel the child would receive a better education if he was with his mother.


    Pei JianGuo wanted to keep custody of his child, but he had no advantage on his own. His only hope nowy with PingAn.


    As long as PingAn firmly insisted on staying with his grandfather, the court would carefully consider this point.


    So in the few days before the trial opened, Pei JianGuo desperately tried to indoctrinate PingAn, telling him it wasn��t that they didn��t want him to live with Pei Yong, but that Guo Momo stubbornly refused to give up and pushed all the me onto her.


    He also told PingAn that if there was anywhere he needed to speak up, he had to firmly state that he wanted to stay with his grandfather and father.


    Pei Yong was also busy with Pei Shuangshuang��s matters these past few days, and did admittedly neglect PingAn a bit, causing the already unsociable boy to be even more silent.


    Wanqing heard about this from Little Sixth. But because she was affected by Pei Shuangshuang��s scandal herself, with her daughter nearly isted at school, she had been busyforting and apanying her daughter these past few days. Even Pei Jing took extended leave from work and was simply too preupied to care for someone else��s child.


    On the actual day the court opened, Pei Yong looked everywhere but couldn��t find PingAn. Finally, he came to ask Little Sixth if he knew PingAn��s whereabouts, since the two boys were usually very close.


    Little Sixth shook his head. ��I don��t know. I haven��t yed with PingAn for many days already. He doesn��t even leave the house ore looking for me, and I haven��t gone to find him either.��


    Only then did Wanqing and Pei Jing realize what had happened to PingAn over the past few days. They couldn��t help feeling resentful towards Pei JianGuo in their hearts for being so heartless.


    They could understand his desire to keep PingAn, but to disce all that pressure onto a child was just asking for trouble. He was only 12 and at an emotionally unstable age. Having to bear such great pressure every day, how could something not go wrong?


    Pei Jing asked Pei Yong, ��When did you first notice PingAn was missing?��


    ��He left the house without even eating breakfast. I thought he went to find Little Sixth, so I didn��t think much of it. I even told him not to forget toe back early today for the trial. But when the time came and he still wasn��t found, we already searched the area...��


    ��Keep looking. After all, PingAn is still young. It��s possible he hid somewhere.�� Pei Jing consoled.


    Everyone was busy searching for PingAn, so Pei JianGuo could only attend the trial alone. The once loving couple now fought fiercely in court.


    Pei JianGuo originally had little chance of winning, and then he lost the child too, giving Guo Momo even more leverage over him.


    After much discussion, the judge finally decided to first find the child and listen to his wishes before making a ruling.


    A 12-year-old already had his own opinions. His reason for running away likely had to do with the tremendous pressure he felt over the change in custody.


    So the final decision stilly with PingAn.


    ...


    The car had turned many corners. PingAn didn��t even know where he was anymore.


    Under a bridge stood a tramp dressed in rags. His hair and beard were long and tangled, covering half his face and leaving only his eyes exposed.


    For this outing, PingAn had brought his pocket money that he had painstakingly saved up over a long time, a good few dozen yuan in total. Most of it was given by his grandfather and step-grandmother.


    He rarely spent money, because whenever his step-grandmother bought things for his uncle and aunt, she would also prepare a share for him. He nevercked food, clothing, or anything else.


    PingAn used to think he was lucky, but recent events made him feel truly unfortunate instead.


    No one truly loved him. Even as they fought over him, they were only trying to achieve their own ends. He used to believe his grandfather loved him the most, but upon seeing Pei Yong��s dedication to Pei Shuangshuang, PingAn understood that his grandfather also had his own children and likely only pitied him.


    A child abandoned from birth, how could he possibly feel safe?


    After listening to Pei JianGuo��s incessant brainwashing over the past couple days...


    He said if he couldn��t keep custody, Guo Momo wouldn��t let PingAn see his grandfather again. And with no advantage on his side, PingAn could only rely on himself.


    In court, even throwing a tantrum and insisting on staying with grandfather might not work.


    PingAn had never done such things before.


    He suddenly felt lost, not knowing what to do anymore, so he fled.


    Two dayster, Wanqing and Pei Jing drove out together. The car traveled for a very long time before stopping near an overpass.


    Supported by Pei Jing, Wanqing walked with him towards the space under the bridge. There, they saw a ragged nket spread out on the ground with someone lying on it.


    PingAn sat to the side, before him a y pot cooking something over a fire that smelled pretty good despite the vessel.


    He still wore the same clothes from when he left home. After two days without washing or changing, plus catching fish and building fires, his outfit was now dirty and disheveled. His face was also smeared with mud and ashes, his hair knotted together.


    Hearing footsteps, the beggar got up and nced back, smiling at PingAn. ��Kid, your elders havee for you. Go home with them. This is no ce for a child like you.��


    PingAn also saw Wanqing and Pei Jing. He pressed his lips together and silently added more firewood under the pot.


    Pei Jing walked over to speak with the beggar and learned that he had taken PingAn in these past two days��or rather, kept himpany.


    After all, the space under the bridge didn��t belong to anyone. It was more that they apanied each other.


    Plus the boy had money on him, which he used to buy the beggar meals these past two days. They seemed to depend on each other for warmth.


    In any case, the man did not take advantage of PingAn in this situation, so he could already be considered a good person.


    Pei Jing gave the beggar some money in thanks, which he epted without refusing.


    A beggar could hardly stand on dignity.


    Originally, Pei Jing asked if he needed any assistance, but the offer was declined.


    They took PingAn away. He only lowered his head silently.


    Wanqing and Pei Jing exchanged a look but said nothing more either. They quietly took PingAn to a hotel where he could wash himself clean and change into fresh clothes.


    By the time PingAn finished cleaning up, Pei Jing had just returned with food.


    PingAn ate quietly at first, but soon tears fell from his eyes. Choking up, he asked, ��Did we lose? Do I have to leave all of you now?��


    In truth, he understood many things. He just hesitated in that moment when asked to make a choice.


    Because no matter what he picked, it meant a loss on one side.


    He used to think he and his grandfather were the closest. But seeing Pei Yong��s dedication to Pei Shuangshuang allowed PingAn to realize his grandfather also had his own children and likely only pitied him out of kindness.


    Making choices was the most difficult thing in the world.


    The court wanted the child to choose for himself, but Wanqing couldn��t bear saying such words to PingAn.


    Because she knew that no matter who he picked, some regret would remain.


    And such pressure was sometimes too heavy even for adults. How much more should it not be ced upon a child?


    Yet the result still demanded a choice.


    After eating, they said they would bring PingAn back. He did not resist.


    Running away from home was like a sudden burst of rebellion in his otherwise calm life. But as his emotions faded and reason slowly returned, he turned back into that obedient child from before.


    PingAn thought that after seeing his grandfather again, his grandfather would beat him violently to teach him a lesson. But reality was not like this. His grandfather didn''t even say a word of me and was still taking good care of him very seriously.


    Guo Momo came to find him again, trying to persuade him to follow her, and that she would never stop him from contacting people on this side again in the future.


    Pei JianGuo no longer forced him to make a choice either. This runaway from home probably left him quite frightened too.


    PingAn still chose to stay, firmly executing the words he had said before that he could do without his parents but not without his grandfather.


    Because he had always known that his grandfather had given up a lot for him. With his position originally, if he had stayed in the army, he should have retired now and would have very good benefits.


    But these were all given up because of him. If he left, there would only be his grandfather left in this family, and he would be very lonely.


    In that autumn, Guo Momo chose to remarry.


    She told PingAn, "Originally, mother had no intention to remarry. Mother only wanted to rely on each other with you, but PingAn, you were unwilling to follow me. You were worried your grandfather would be lonely, but mother would also be lonely."


    At this moment, she still tried to make PingAn choose her.


    After all, she would never give birth again in her life. Rather than raising children for others, she would rather put her heart into her own son.


    It was just that this time it was PingAn who didn''t want her.


    PingAn generously gave his blessing. Apart from feelings, he had never had any other intentions towards them, and from now on, even his feelings would be gone.


    When they forced him to make a choice, it had already made him understand that they didn''t love him at all, all they wanted was victory.


    The afterglow of the setting sun shone into the living room. Wanqing also came back from outside.


    Auntie Zhang was just about to greet her when she saw Wanqing walk into the room without saying a word, mming the door shut,pletely blocking the view from outside.


    Auntie Zhang sighed, also ming Pei Shuangshuang in her heart.


    A rat fouls the entire pot of soup. Her leaving may have settled everything, but she left such a reputation that implicated the whole family.


    Wanqing was a child she had raised with her own hands, calling her Auntie Zhang sweetly since she was very little. She had always been so cheerful and active, but recently she had be increasingly gloomy.


    Those few friends of hers who used toe over all the time hadn''te for several months either. She didn''t live on campus anymore, came and left alone, which made people feel distressed just looking at her.


    Zhifu saw Auntie Zhang standing outside with a frustrated look on her face, staring intently at Wanqing''s room.


    "Is she back?" These days, Zhifu also tried her best to stay at home when the kids came back, so that she could spend more time with them and chat more, to find out about things happening to her daughter at school in a timely manner.


    "She came back and locked herself in the room alone, it''s been like this these days." Auntie Zhang said worriedly, "Zhifu, this can''t go on. You guys should think of something as soon as possible. If there''s no other way, it''d be good to transfer Wanqing to another school. Hering and going alone like this all day, there''s going to be problems in the long run."


    How could Zhifu not understand this reason? But now that things had developed to this point, it was no longer a problem that could be solved by switching schools.


    Unless she switched cities.


    Like Pei Shuangshuang, fleeing far away, who else would know about her affairs in Jincheng?


    But Pei Shuangshuang was paying the price for her own actions, while her daughter was the one implicated, suffering a cmity through no fault of her own, it was disgusting.


    Zhifu tried opening Wanqing''s room door, it wasn''t locked.


    She was lying on the desk doing homework, looking particrly serious.


    Zhifu let out a sigh of relief and walked in to ask her, "A lot of homework? Auntie Zhang made fried dough sticks today, want to eat first before writing?"


    Wanqing stopped, put down her pen on the homework notebook, and suddenly looked up, "Mom, can I make a slightly over-the-line request?"


    "Of course, you''re my darling. As long as it doesn''t harm others, I''ll be very happy if you want to make a request to me." Zhifu said.


    "I want to study abroad." What Wanqing didn''t dare to say was that actually she had been preparing for it these past few months already.


    Her grades were absolutely not a problem. The problem lied in her family. This was no longer about leaving this city, but going abroad directly. She was afraid her parents and brother would not agree.


    In the past, Zhifu really hoped to keep her daughter by her side, and Wanqing never wanted to leave them either. For her to suddenly have such an idea, it must not be a spur of the moment thing.


    "It''s still because of that incident, right?"


    Wanqing nodded, "They don''t dare discuss it in front of me, but I know they''re talking about it behind my back. I don''t want to be like this anymore, I want to change my environment." She had also thought about transferring schools, but there were only so many good universities, and news travelled fast among the circle of intellectuals. She didn''t want to go into another environment like this. She heard that foreign countries were more open-minded. Every year, Hongfeng picked excellent students to support them to study abroad. Many people in her ss were particrly concerned about this quota. So she also started having such thoughts.


    Moreover, it was unlikely that this incident would spread abroad, so she wouldn''t have to face those weird looks either.


    "As long as you want to, mom will support you. But we''ll have to discuss this with dad first before making a decision, alright?" Kids grow up and have to leave home eventually. Since she already had such thoughts, and the family was notcking the means, Zhifu would support her.


    It was better than being in a gloomy environment and repressing herself trying to stay strong.

 Chapter 421: The Aftermath of 0421

    <h4>Chapter 421</h4>


    "Okay." Wanqing nodded in agreement, but there was one sentence she didn''t dare say.


    No matter what the final result of her parents'' discussion was, she had made up her mind to go abroad to study.


    She was not stupid, she just alwayscked a little ambition, and this time, even though she wanted to use leaving to avoid some things, it also strengthened her determination to study hard and make progress.


    Those who talked about her behind her back didn''t do so because she was wrong, only because she was not yet outstanding enough.


    She wanted to stand at the top so that everyone would look up to her, so that when they saw her, they would definitely not think of those messy dirty things, but of her excellence, her ability.


    Adults always said that time was the best medicine to forget something, but she didn''t think so.


    Things that have already happened, even if they are forgotten over time, will still be reviewed and criticized more severely if there is even a tiny mistake.


    She had to work hard to let her own aura cover the impact others had on her. This was the best way to solve the problem.


    Children are constantly growing up through setbacks. Flowers raised in a greenhouse are delicate and beautiful but cannot withstand wind and frost. Wanqing, who had gone through this setback, would certainly be even more outstanding, admired by all.


    When Pei Jing received the call, he was not surprised.


    He returned home at the fastest speed and asked Wanqing, "Have you decided?"


    "Yes." To make up her mind to leave home, Wanqing was very reluctant in her heart, but this incident also let her see that no one could protect her for a lifetime. There were some things she had to take on herself. "Dad, I will take good care of myself, just agree, and although I''m going abroad, can''t our family still get together in cyberspace?"


    Although she said this, when one was really busy, who would still care about getting together!


    Just like Chenye, it was onlyst time that Zhixia went to the Capital City to see him. Now he was busy doing something with his supervisor. Zhixia didn''t ask for details, but you could see his fatigue from his face.


    "Since you''ve decided, don''t wait for the school''s arrangement. The school''s quotas are already sponsored by your mother. If you take up one, in this environment, who knows what else people will say about our family." Pei Jing said.


    "I''ve thought about this too. Anyway, we don''tck this bit. Wanqing shouldn''t take up this quota. We can also self-fund her study abroad. It will be the same." Hearing Pei Jing''s intention to agree, Zhixia quickly said, "But mom has to exhort you one thing, Wanqing. I''ve never asked you to do anything before. Now I only have one requirement of you."


    "Mom, tell me. I will definitely listen." Wanqing was immersed in joy.


    "It''s said that social mores are open abroad, but you''re still young. Don''t be in a hurry for love affairs. Also, no matter what you do abroad, don''t be impulsive. If it''s not convenient to go in and out of cyberspace, write a PingAn letter and put it inside." Zhixia carefully exhorted.


    Wanqing didn''t feel impatient at all and agreed to everything.


    When it was just the two of them, Zhixia finally dropped the smile she had been forcing on her face. She became tired.


    Pei Jing moved closer to her. In fact, he was also very helpless in his heart.


    It wasn''t his fault, but Pei Shuangshuang was also a member of the Pei family. It couldn''t be denied that Wanqing was implicated by her.


    He couldn''t evenin to them, because from his standpoint, his elder brother who was like a father and brother was also a pitiful man, but his wife and daughter were even more innocent.


    After Pei Shuangshuang''s affairs were exposed, it wasn''t only Wanqing who was ridiculed. Zhixia was probably also talked about a lot in business circles.


    But she was an adult who could withstand pressure better.


    Besides, those people only dared to gossip behind her back for now. So far, no one really dared say it to her face.


    "Sorry." After thinking about it for a long time, Pei Jing felt that he should still say an apologetic word to her.


    Zhixia smiled understandingly. "What are you apologizing for? It wasn''t your fault."


    It wasn''t his fault, but it was because of his rtionship on both sides that things turned out this way.


    Pei Jing wearily got up. "I''m going to the hospital to ask if there''s anything to pay attention to when going abroad. When Wanqing is ready to leave, I''ll take her. After she''s settled in over there I''lle back."


    It was his daughter''s first time going so far away. She wasn''t easygoing. How could he let her go with peace of mind?


    "That''s good too. Since she''s decided to study abroad, operate it as soon as possible. It will also spare the child the embarrassment of staying at school. Ask clearly so we can make preparations early too. It would be chaotic if we were busy at thest minute." Zhixia said, helping him put on a coat to go out.


    The weather had turned cold with a piercing wind.


    Pei Xiang came over with her husband and children, holding a basket in her hand. "Auntie, our unit gave out frozen pears and oranges. I brought some for you to try."


    "Keep them for your children to eat. Why bring them here?" Zhixia said to her.


    "The two of us were each given two baskets. There''s plenty to eat." Pei Xiang looked around inside and out, then asked, "Isn''t my uncle back yet? Howe he''s not here?"


    "He went out. Your information is quite updated." Zhixia took the basket from her and handed it to Sister Zhang. Sister Zhang took it inside.


    The two little ones sweetly called her Grandma. Zhixia quickly led them in to give them treats.


    "You came at just the right time. Stay for dinner tonight. Your uncle will be back too. I''ll go buy some groceries." Zhixia said to them.


    Pei Xiang looked at her husband, then said, "Then I won''t stand on ceremony. I''ll help with the cookingter."


    Sister Zhang cut in, "You can''t do that. If you take my job, what will I do?"


    "I''ll help you, Sister Zhang. I haven''t seen you in so long. I want to drink your hot and sour soup." Pei Xiang and Sister Zhang were old acquaintances. She spoke without any politeness.


    Sister Zhang coaxed her, "Fine, it''s just soup, isn''t it? I''ll make you a bowlter."


    When Zhixia went out to shop, Pei Xiang wanted to go with her but Zhixia found an excuse to refuse her.


    Their family usually ate things produced from cyberspace. Only asionally when she was too busy to go out would Sister Zhang buy groceries.


    If not for this, she would have handed over all grocery shopping to Sister Zhang to save trouble.


    But things from cyberspace were indeed different from the outside world, not just in vor but in quality too.


    Even Pei Jing said that after eating the meals at home for a long time, it really nourished people. Sometimes when his skin was chapped from sun exposure out, it would normally take 1-2 months to heal, but as soon as he returned home, the cracked skin would turn better in just a few days.


    It took Zhixia a while beforeing back from shopping. When she got home, Pei Jing was already there.


    Sister Zhang came to take the groceries and marveled, "I always feel the vegetables you buy back are more juicy than the ones I buy, even though I pick the best too. The meat is also fresh."


    Zhixia said, "Sister Zhang, don''t joke. We buy them at the same market. I just happen to have better luck and go when someone has just brought in fresh produce."


    "Forget it, I''ll go cook. You all go talk inside."


    Pei Xiang had wanted to help in the kitchen but was refused by Sister Zhang.


    The two went into the living room and saw Pei Jing already chatting with Pei Xiang''s husband.


    From their conversation, Zhixia was surprised to ask her, "You''re also leaving Jin City?"


    The use of "also" indicated they were definitely not the first.


    Pei Xiang thought she was talking about Pei Shuangshuang and instantly showed a disgusted expression. She said, "It''s all because of Pei Shuangshuang. One bad apple ruins the whole bunch. I was up for promotion and evaluation this year. I could have led students in the future. But with this mess, I''ve be aughingstock for the whole Propaganda Group. And some are up to no good..."


    Pei Xiang found it so disgusting she couldn''t contain her agitated mood.


    Zhixia soothingly patted her arm and asked, "Did someone make a move on you?"


    ��Of course,st night......�� As Pei Xiang said, she shuddered at the memory, ��Thankfully these past days he��s either been with me oring to pick me up, otherwise I dare not imagine the consequences. My parents and I had already discussed this, my older sister lives far away and who knows when she��ll be back, he has many brothers at home so one less doesn��t matter, we��d decided to stay in Jin City and look after my parents. But with this mess, both our careers are affected, and some nasty people havee to humiliate us, I��m so afraid......��


    Pei Xiang had deliberated with her family for many days before making this decision. If she didn��t get away from these idle gossipers, their words would torment her to death.


    Since the second room had no son, Pei Xiang had always been strong-willed, she absolutely could not stand this kind of thing. Just in the Propaganda Group, she had shed with others several times already.


    Her eyes were red as she forcibly held back her tears, ��Auntie, I��ve already told our director that even if I leave, Jiao Yan can continue cooperating with the Propaganda Group, he will amodate you.��


    ��That��s no problem, but what about the person who stopped youst night?��


    ��He��s been taken to the police station, he will face consequences for his actions.�� Pei Xiang said viciously.


    Ever since they started selling Jiao Yan, the Propaganda Group had put in a lot of effort, but Know Asia had not shortchanged them either, handling every aspect thoroughly.


    She was not worried about their partnership.


    Jiao Yan was currently the biggest skincare brand domestically, and had built up some reputation internationally. They didn��t even need any promotions at this point, everyone already knew about it. The only reason they still engaged the Propaganda Group was out of sentiment for their initial partnership and to give Pei Xiang face.


    Plus in recent years the domestic TV market had gradually expanded, and many households had purchased TVs. Wu Lei��s side was already nning to shift to a TV advertising model.


    Wanqing had suffered simrly in this matter, so upon hearing Pei Xiang��s words she empathized even more, and the two chatted animatedly.


    Know Asia listened in without interjecting, wanting to understand the true circumstances her daughter had faced at school recently.


    Ever since she stopped living on campus and insisted oning home every day despite the cold, Know Asia had guessed that her child must have heard a lot of idle gossip in this time, but what surprised her was that there were many sordid urrences on campus that she could never have imagined, listening to it made her scalp tingle.


    They had talked at the door, so Pei Jing had not heard. It was only after dinner when he saw Know Asia��s awful expression that he asked her, ��What��s the matter?��


    Know Asia ryed Pei Xiang and Wanqing��s conversation, then said, ��Pei Jing, I know you pity big brother, and I won��t stop you two from interacting, but I hope that woman Pei Shuangshuang never appears in my home again for the rest of her life.��


    Know Asia rarely addressed someone so formally, which showed her solemn attitude.


    After listening, Pei Jing could barely restrain his anger as he nodded in agreement, ��I��ll go to Wanqing��s school tomorrow and have a chat with her ssmates.��


    This was already an insult to others�� integrity, Pei Jing could not even imagine Wanqing enduring this environment for months.


    No wonder she was so eager and enthusiastic about studying abroad.


    Wanqing had skipped two grades in primary school, and enrolled early, so she was younger than many ssmates. Those words like vixen and slut, and even more offensive terms, targeted at a girl of only fifteen or sixteen, if she was slightly weaker she might have been tormented to death.


    ��No need to talk to them, I already went to her school when the Pei Shuangshuang incident first came out, and met with several teachers, even specifically going to her ssroom to give gifts to each ssmate, just to prevent them from ostracizing Wanqing. Now it seems those efforts were all in vain, I was too polite which only encouraged their arrogance.��


    ��Then don��t let the child go to school tomorrow. I��ve asked third uncle, the formalities can be expedited. Let��s get her abroad as soon as possible.�� Seeing Know Asia��s awful expression, Pei Jing tentatively asked, ��Or you cane along, we��ll get Wanqing settled in, y with the child for a few days, distract and vent. What do you think?��


    This time Know Asia did not refuse, ��Then hurry with the formalities. I��ll arrange things at thepany, and ask the few kids. asionally I��ve asked them before if they were affected, and they all said no. Those brats, each more mischievous than thest. But they wouldn��t take it lying down. Go inquire more, don��t wait until something happens before we find out.��


    Know Asia was not too worried about them. Plus they had PingAn, the five of them were at the same school. As long as they didn��t actively provoke others it should be fine, probably no one would dare provoke them either.


    A parent��s heart is like this, afraid the child is too unruly and will bully others, afraid the child is too meek and will be bullied by others. No matter what, there will always be regrets.


    Pei Jing nodded and went to ask.


    Afraid they wouldn��t tell him directly, he could only probe tactfully from the sides.


    After all, the young can��t outwit the old. He finally found out that in the beginning, some people did want to cause trouble. But the victims were Little Sixth and PingAn. When the triplets found out, it was five against four. And all of them had training, the other people didn��t even dare go home and tattle after being beaten up. Later when they saw the triplets they directly took a detour to avoid them, so this matter never reached the teachers and parents. At the same time, they had also established their authority in front of everyone.


    If Pei Jing didn''t ask, he wouldn''t have known that these five fellows had be thorny existences within the school, but only among the students. In the eyes of teachers, they were still mischievous but diligent and outstanding model students.

 Chapter 422: 422 Study Abroad

    <h4>Chapter 422</h4>


    Wanqing did not go back to school afterward. Pei Jing went there in person to process her leave of absence.


    However, studying abroad was not that easy. First, they had to contact the school over there, and Pei Jing was on active military duty so going abroad required approval through official channels.


    During the time when she was not going to school, Wanqing did not let herself go. Instead, she either self-studied in her room or went to the An family home to chat with grandmother.


    On the third day of her leave of absence, two of Wanqing''s ssmates came to visit her at home.


    Knovsumner knew one of them, Xia, and had known her to be on very good terms with Wanqing. The three girls had run a small business together over the summer and supposedly made quite a lot of money, though Knovsumner had not asked Wanqing for details.


    Their rtionship did not seem to have changed much, as Wanqing invited them right into the house.


    The three girls stayed in the room for a long time. When the two visitors came out, their eyes were somewhat red, and they looked at Wanqing with reluctance to part.


    "Come on, I''m only going abroad to study, not disappearing forever. We can still keep in touch by phone. After I finish my studies over there I''lle back, and then we can get together and have fun again." Wanqing''s voice rang out in the yard, bright and cheerful, clearly conveying her delight.


    "We''re not reluctant to part with you. With you gone we''ll have one lesspetitor. Wanqing Pei, while you''re abroad help scout things out for us. We''ll study hard too and try to get the study abroad spots this year, so we cane find you."


    The girls'' choked voices spoke as they hugged Wanqing. The other girl was rtively silent. She also hugged Wanqing briefly without saying anything.


    Friendships in youth tend to be simple yet ardent. Watching this scene from the window, Knovsumner felt genuinely happy for Wanqing.


    These two friends of hers were decent girls, outstanding academically as well as in character. The three of them were evenly matched.


    Not like those other girls from years ago, who only yed together because they were of simr age. Any outstanding talent drew their jealousy.


    After seeing the visitors off, Knovsumner asked Wanqing, "You three seem to get along very well, and it''s rare that they haven''t been influenced by others to harbor ill will toward you."


    "They''re both wonderful girls, and extremely aplished," Wanqing said with a warm smile. She came over to hug Knovsumner''s arm. "Mom, we might really get the chance to reunite overseas. Zhang Rou and I used to take turns ranking first. Qin Yue was just a tiny bit behind us, but with me gone now, they''ve lost apetitor."


    "True feelings are priceless. It''s rare to find genuine goodwill. We don''t expect much sincerity from others, just civility. The outside world is wondrous yet dangerous. Stay vignt and focus on safety at all times. Keep a low profile."


    After the mother and daughter chatted for a while, Pei Jing returned from outside.


    Wanqing quickly asked him, "Dad, how did it go on your end?"


    "The approval came through already, but we have to move fast. I can only stay for one week." Pei Jing said.


    "That''s fantastic..."


    Filled with longing for the outside world, Wanqing started spinning in circles with excitement.


    "Dad, Mom, before going abroad I want to visit my brother first. I miss him." Wanqing said.


    "Then go. Bring your luggage and we''ll head out from there." Knovsumner agreed.


    Upon learning that Wanqing''s family was going to send her abroad, the kids at home all mored to tag along. But they still had to attend school, so Pei Jing and Knovsumner naturally refused their nonsense.


    After giving Sister Zhang instructions on household matters and leaving the family sufficient living expenses, the couple set off with their daughter.


    They went to the capital city first to visit their son, only to find out Chenye was not on campus but had entered an research institute with his mentor and would not be able toe out for the time being.


    Knovsumner recalled Chenye mentioning something about a research project with his mentorst time, but could not remember the specifics. She had assumed that it would have ended by now, after such a long time.


    She reproached herself for not checking before they came.


    Seeing Wanqing''s disappointment, Knovsumner consoled her, "After your brother bes avable I''ll let him know, and you two can arrange to meet in cyberspace. It''ll be the same."


    To Wanqing''s credit, she responded positively, "I guess that''s all we can do now."


    She had been looking forward to seeing Chenye''s learning environment here and reminiscing about when they used to go out together. But now it seemed they would not get a chance to go out again until after she returned from overseas.


    It was Wanqing''s first time on an airne. Everything looked novel and fascinating. It was Knovsumner''s first flight too, but with her vastly wider experience she kept her cool.


    Unsure how long they flew, when Knovsumner woke from a nap the ne had already begun its descent.


    The night air outside was piercingly cold, yet the streets remained vibrantly busy. The buildings and people''s attire differed greatly from their homnd.


    Prior to the trip they had watched many videos on 2024 America in cyberspace to prepare. Still the difference between seeing it on screen versus in person was considerable.


    Pei Jing hailed them a cab to a nice hotel for check-in.


    The next day he took Wanqing to the school they had already contacted to process her enrollment.


    Knovsumner did not apany them but wandered several blocks near campus instead, observing the environment and buying some things she liked.


    By the time she returned to their hotel room, Pei Jing hade back too, but Wanqing was not there.


    "Did it go well?" Knovsumner asked him.


    "All done. Can''t be too careful in unfamiliar territory. We applied for a dorm room instead of having her live alone off campus. Safety first, conditions second." Pei Jing exined, "She took her luggage to settle into the dorm. Will be back to eat lunch with uster. Paperwork isplete today so sses officially start tomorrow."


    He sighed, feeling time slip by too swiftly. It seemed only a blink ago their child was still cozying up to them making demands.


    Wanqing''s English proficiency was decent. She had practiced daily leading up to the trip and had no issuesmunicating.


    But thinking of her parents waiting back at the hotel, after briefly greeting her new roommates she hurried back right away.


    Knovsumner inquired about the dorm conditions out of concern. Only after learning her roommates seemed nice so far could she finally rx.


    That afternoon, Knovsumner suggested Wanqing treat her roommates to a meal to bond. Knovsumner had wanted to meet them herself, but feared crossing generational boundaries and making them ufortable. So she had Wanqing bring the girls small gifts instead, to convey her regards.


    With Wanqing properly on track, over the next few days she radiated smiles whenever they saw her, no longer holing up in her room immediately upon returning home. Instead she happily shared school happenings.

 Chapter 423: 423 All the money is not available for the time being

    <h4>Chapter 423</h4>


    Seeing the cheerful daughter, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing were alsopletely relieved.


    Taking advantage of Wanqing''s absence, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing discussed, "I want to buy Wanqing a house, just nearby, close to the school too, what do you think?"


    "Haven''t you already decided?" Pei Jing was still puzzled, she had been out for a walk these past few days for no reason, so this was her idea, "Have you seen one you like?"


    Although it would be safer for her to live in the school dormitory, it would still be better for a girl to have her own independent space, even if only to stay over asionally.


    Moreover, they still had the secret space, it was always inconvenient in the dormitory, with an independent house, they could reunite in the space, and Zhi Xia could also bring her favorite foods.


    Although she couldn''t take it out, she could enjoy it in the space.


    Most importantly, it wasn''t like the family didn''t have the means, earning money was for a good life after all, so why insist on making the child suffer?


    "I''ve looked at amunity, very close to their school, most importantly the management is strict, with good security assurances. Let''s go take a look together, if there are no issues then hurry up and finalize it, didn''t you say you only had a week? We have to book ne tickets to go back the day after tomorrow."


    "Alright, you''re the empress of our family, you make the decisions." Pei Jing said.


    The two made time to take a look, the house was quite nice, over 100 square meters, two bedrooms, fully furnished, with furniture and appliances, it just so happened to suit theirck of time.


    Of course, the price was also expensive.


    Fortunately she had this idea when she came, so she exchanged arge amount of USD, lest she have the idea now but not have the money on hand.


    Decisively paying the money toplete the transaction, Zhi Xia and Pei Jing cleaned the house inside and out, making sure it was spotless for their daughter to move in directly with her bags.


    By the time they returned to the hotel, Zhi Xia just copsed on the bed not wanting to move.


    It had been a long time since she had done so much housework, suddenly doing it all at once, she felt her physical fitness was reallycking.


    It wasn''t that something was wrong, just purely ack of exercise.


    Pei Jing was even mocking her, "I told you long ago to exercise more but you were just beingzy, see, just doing this little bit of work has you exhausted like this?"


    Although he spoke like this, he still thoughtfully massaged her waist.


    Zhi Xia didn''t want to admit his words, and sophistically argued, "This is clearly because I''m older now, my body''s constitution isn''t as good as before, don''t you feel bad for me and instead me me?"


    "Don''t deliberately distort my words." Pei Jing deliberately pped her butt.


    Zhi Xia simply kept quiet, peacefully enjoying his service.


    Let him say whatever he wants, she would pretend not to hear.


    Life was already tiring enough, she didn''t want to make things difficult for herself, she just didn''t like exercising, what could be done about it?


    When he was home before he could still make her move a little, but once he left she would go back to her old ways. A wife and child were different than servants who could be scolded and beaten. In the end he had simply given up.


    When Wanqing returned, Zhi Xia was already asleep, only waking up when she heard voices in the room.


    She was still a little groggy, and saw Wanqing pounce over, "Mom, hurry up and get up, let''s go eat dinner, you slept until now to wake up, are you still going to sleep tonight?"


    "Then I won''t sleep! Me and your dad don''t have to go to school either, we don''t have to get up early tomorrow." Zhi Xia asked her, "Does my darling have anything in mind she wants to eat? Dad and mom will keep youpany a bit more, tomorrow we have to go back, from then on you''ll be staying here alone, you have to take care of yourself, okay?"


    "Mm, I know." Wanqing nodded heavily, "Let''s go to that Western restaurant down the street, I heard that restaurant''s caviar is pretty good, let''s go try what foreign caviar actually tastes like?"


    Zhi Xia had the ocean in her space, they nevercked for anything to eat, but for some things, it was just novelty in eating them.


    The restaurant was bustling with business, seats filled with customers, the three of them ordered several dishes, all signature dishes of the restaurant.


    But maybe due to different dietary habits, Zhi Xia always felt the vors were a bit strange, not as delicious as Chinese food, so after a few bites she put her utensils down.


    Even when they left, Wanqing was stillining, "It feels a lot more open herepared to our country, just the food isn''t good. Mom, next time you have time leave meals for me in the space, otherwise leave the ingredients and I can make it myself when I have time, I reckon if I have to eat Western food everyday I''ll be nothing but skin and bones by the time I go back."


    "Exaggerating." Zhi Xiaughed helplessly, saying to Pei Jing, "Luckily we prepared extra, otherwise this girl would have suffered."


    "What is it?" Wanqing still didn''t know.


    "Your dad and I bought you a house today, spent half the day cleaning it up, and it''s still early now, so we''ll take you to get familiar with the area. In the future if you don''t want to live in the dorms you can stay there."


    A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, as the farewell drew nearer, this feeling grew stronger in her heart.


    After showing Wanqing the house, the girl was overjoyed.


    But she hadn''t told her dorm mates she wouldn''t be returning tonight, they had gotten along well these past few days, Wanqing didn''t want them to worry, so she still decided to go back and stay at school.


    The three strolled slowly all the way until sending her to the school gates, Zhi Xia gave Wanqing a list of contacts, all international students thepany had sponsored over the years, for her to ask for help if she encountered any difficulties.


    After all, the others hade earlier, and were a bit more familiar with the cepared to her.


    Zhi Xia and Pei Jing walked hand in hand on the streets, neither speaking, but the tranquil, warm atmosphere made both their hearts feel warm.


    Since their flight was at noon, Wanqing couldn''t see them off, but she hade early in the morning, and didn''t reluctantly leave until she really had to hurry to ss.


    Jincheng didn''t have an airport yet, they could only transfer to the nearest city with an airport, then take the train back to Jincheng.


    Pei Jing was in a great hurry, leaving as soon as they got home.


    Zhi Xia was surrounded by the triplets and Little Sixth, curiously asking her what it was like abroad.


    She didn''t feel there was anything particrly special, just livelier than domestic, the houses also looked more high-end.


    With Little Sixth there, Zhi Xia could only describe to them what she saw and heard while abroad, and remind them in the end to study well, and serve the country with what they learned, developing their homnd to prosperity.


    Pei Yong''s face was filled with weariness, visibly much older than before, his hair had all turned white too. He guiltily asked Zhi Xia, "Wanqing is settled abroad? How is she doing over there?"


    "She''s all settled, we stayed there with her for several days, she adapted pretty well herself." Although she knew this matter had nothing to do with Pei Yong, the wrongdoer was Pei Shuangshuang, Zhi Xia and Jiang Su still inevitably held some resentment towards him as well.


    After all, money was secondary, it was most disgusting that both their families'' children had been implicated.


    "That''s good, I''m relieved to hear it." Pei Yong also didn''t know what else to say, taking an envelope from his pocket and handing it to Zhi Xia, "For the mistakes Shuangshuangmitted, I also can''t have you pay that money for the painting, but I really can''t take out 10,000 right now, here''s 6,000, I''ll give you the remaining 4,000 when I have it."

 Chapter 424: 424 Returned

    <h4>Chapter 424</h4>


    After transfering jobs, Pei Yong had chosen an easier job to take care of his grandson, but the sry was not high either.


    Part of this 6000 yuan was his savings, he had insisted Pei Shuangshuang and Wang Yue take some of it.


    Pei Yong had let it go, if he didn''t make them pay some price and suffer some lessons, they would never know how serious things were.


    So this time, no matter how Pei Shuangshuang and Wang Yue pleaded poverty, he was very firm in making them pay.


    Of course he knew they must have had more than this amount, but he also knew it would not be easy to squeeze out more.


    With Pei Yong doing this, Zhi Xia felt embarrassed.


    "Big brother, if you are tight on cash then take it, I don''t need money for now." Even if it was her own money, in dealing with people, one should be polite.


    Of course, being polite depended on the person, at least the other person should also be polite, in fact facing an impolite person, the money could be politely given away in an instant.


    It was one thing that she didn''tck money, but there was no reason to not want what was hers, not to mention this whole thing was frustrating enough.


    Pei Yong was not an impolite person, he passed the money forward again, "You take it, I don''t have much use for money either, and I still have a sry, if I really have difficulties, I won''t stand on ceremony with you."


    "Alright, I''ll take it first, big brother if youck money just tell me anytime." Zhi Xia said.


    "Oh, then I''ll go first." Pei Yong turned around, even his back was no longer as straight as before.


    In his life he had stood tall and proud, never doing anything to feel sorry for others, only with his children, he had lost face.


    Zhi Xia sympathized with him, but it was just sympathy.


    Actually when you think about it, if he had hardened his heart and gotten a divorce early on, and kept his children with him to raise properly, it may not have turned out like this.


    But the most regrettable thing in this world, was that there was no medicine for regret.


    Chenye only found out that his parents hade looking for him with his sister when he came back to school from the research institute. He hurriedly called home to ask, and found out Wanqing had already gone abroad.


    Eagerly getting Wanqing''s contact information, Chenye also started reflecting that he had paid too little attention to his sister recently.


    But nearing graduation, and rmended by his advisor to the Chinese Academy of Sciences, he had been busy, that was certain.


    In the future when he truly got busy, it was possible he might lose contact with family for years.


    Zhi Xia also knew about her son''s matters, she felt happy and proud for him, but also gained some mncholy.


    It was good when children excelled, but just like an eagle taking flight, it also represented leaving their parents'' side.


    Silver snow adorned the earth, the eye met with silver dressed ground.


    Zhi Xia piled all of this year''s new year''s gifts for the employees in an empty factory warehouse, then closed the doors and left.


    Returning home, Zhi Xia asked Sister Zhang, "Sister Zhang, these two days don''t cook at home, help me find some people to do some other work, how about it?"


    "Do what?" Sister Zhang was puzzled: "As long as I can do it, isn''t it just a word from you, do you have to be so polite with me?"


    "Not for you to do, you help find some free people, then watch over them doing it and that''s it." It wasn''t actually a lot of work, just splitting up those new year''s gifts into batches, there were just over ten days until the new year holiday, due to influence from foreign capital, the appliance factory''s performance wasn''t too good this year, currently two production lines had already stopped, might as well just give everyone an early vacation.


    After busy years, they had also earned some money, let the appliance factory employees enjoy a paid vacation.


    "I can do this work, there are several olddies near me with nothing to do everyday, just right to have them go over to exercise their bones and sinews, they can also earn a bit to subsidize their family expenditure." Sister Zhang happily agreed.


    Zhi Xia gave her the key to the warehouse, leaving this matter to Sister Zhang.


    Inside thepany, Zhi Xia looked at the financial statements handed over by Jiang Tao.


    Although the appliance factory was still profitable this year, orders were a full half less thanst year.


    And several other appliance factories were in a price war, so product prices were also pressed very low.


    Only products they had that others didn''t made some profit for now.


    There were also some small fans designed in the first half of the year, they made quite a lot relying on small and cute looks and convenient portability, but were quickly copied by others.


    Although they had lost ground in home appliances, the real estate side''s profits pulled very high, and the sales volume at Waoyan''s side increased by a third overst year, and mostly overseas orders.


    "Boss An, I still rmend considering overseas financing." Although proposed before and rejected, but the appliance factory was where they started originally, and also Jiang Tao''s most reluctant to abandon emotional attachment, "Not that our products are inferior, but many people just feel foreign technology is better than ours, and there are also huge preferential policies and tax benefits..."


    To persuade Zhi Xia, Jiang Tao had also prepared extensively.


    Without absolute necessity, no one wanted their fruits of victory harvested by others, but the market was like this, it couldn''t be helped.


    Zhi Xia could guess Jiang Tao''s thoughts, but some matters were not as simple as imagined.


    The so-called overseas financing was just the first step for overseas capital to enter the domestic market,ter there would be frequent shady operations, and many entrepreneurs who worked hard their whole lives eventually had no choice but to work for others.


    She didn''t want that.


    "Jiang Tao, since our products are no worse than others, there''s nothing to worry about. Products are just an issue of reputation, and sales are still profitable this year showing that many people still trust our products. So, we can try to start from the advertising side, you can ask President Wu from Waoyan about this, he has quite a bit of experience with advertising."


    "Alright then." Jiang Tao took note of this point, "Also the second round of bidding for the real estate plot has concluded, the Construction Bureau hinted that while the heat of thest wave of real estate sales hasn''t declined yet, continue buildingmercial districts, still in nning stages, does our side have any opinions to propose?"


    "Then follow the government''s ns to carry out, our side does our best to cooperate, and keep control of construction quality." Zhi Xia thought for a moment: "Right, our housing designs this time should lean towards high-end residential area, Jin City''s development has been quite good recently, and many who left have returned, so the housing sales this time mainly target middle and high-end buyers, so we must pay special attention to environment and facilities construction..."


    Leaving thepany, it was already evening.


    The snow on the ground had been cleared away, but due to weather, the ground was icy and bikes couldn''t grip it at all.


    Since it wasn''t far anyway, she simply walked back with an umbre.


    A car stopped in front of her, the window opened, revealing a face she hadn''t seen in a long time.

 Chapter 425: 425 Specific Reasons, True or False

    <h4>Chapter 425</h4>


    "Long time no see, Mr. An." I heard that after Zhao Runze graduated, he did not ept the school''s work arrangement either, but left Jincheng alone. He was rarely mentioned when former ssmates got together, and no one knew where he was.


    I didn''t expect to see him again today.


    "Mr. Zhao." ZhiXia An politely nodded, her eyes swept over the sky that was growing dark, "It''s gettingte, I won''t dy Mr. Zhao, I''ll get going first."


    ZhiXia said she was leaving, when she heard Zhao Runze ask, "It''s snowing. I have a car, let me give you a ride home?"


    "No need, my home is not far, walking is good exercise." ZhiXia declined.


    Zhao Runze smiled bitterly, "An ZhiXia, we really can''t even be friends?"


    It seemed that she had always rejected him, even if he no longer had other ideas, she still refused to put down her cold attitude.


    "Mr. Zhao, I love my husband very much and don''t want to do anything that could make him misunderstand." ZhiXia thought, just as he had been very self-disciplined over the years. Feelings are mutual, and one must be self-aware for them tost long.


    Otherwise, once there are cracks, it will be very difficult to repair them again.


    Besides, ZhiXia felt that her behavior was good for both of them. Indulging in the past all the time was simply not wise, not to mention that it was just a memory that appeared out of nowhere without any substantial contact.


    When living, one must always look forward.


    Watching ZhiXia''s carefree leaving figure, Zhao Runze realized that he would never have another chance in this life.


    Perhaps it was his own mistake that caused there to always be that little gap between them.


    In his memories, when he hesitated after learning she was pregnant, he missed his chance. Later he regretted it immensely but there was no longer any hope.


    And in reality, after obtaining that memory, he hesitated repeatedly, unsure if it was real or not, and thought that if it was true she woulde looking for him. He didn''t expect that when they met again, she was already a married woman and mother, and he missed his chance once more.


    Perhaps this was heaven''s arrangement.


    Losing once meant no longer deserving to possess.


    In recent years, Zhao Runze had been developing outside all along. Now he was quite aplished. Coming back this time was to see his parents who he hadn''t seen for years and bring them over to attend his wedding.


    Meeting ZhiXia today was purely idental.


    Regarding feelings, he had given up all hope long ago when he chose to leave this ce. He just didn''t expect that they wouldn''t even have the chance to be friends.


    When ZhiXia returned home, she saw a figure standing outside her door.


    "Hello, may I ask who you are..."


    "Hello, you must be Mr. An ZhiXia, right?" said the man in his 30s with a ttering smile on his face. "Hello, I am Liu Cun, the vice principal of Jincheng University. I came to talk to you about sponsored overseas students. I wonder if Ms. An has time?"


    "So it''s Vice Principal Liu. Nice to meet you." ZhiXia said, "Regarding the sponsored overseas students, I think we have already exined it. Vice Principal Liu, is there anything you still don''t understand?"


    In recent years, ZhiXia had been sponsoring outstanding students to study abroad. Although they signed a contract to work for thepany for a certain number of years after returning to China, she would not force those who had better opportunities to stay.


    The reason for signing this contract was mainly to prevent herself from spending money and effort only to end up nurturing talent for foreign countries.


    But after learning what Pei Wanqing had experienced at school, she stopped the sponsorship quota at herpany.


    It was this batch of students, many of whom spoke cold, sarcastic words to mock and ridicule Pei Wanqing. As an adult, she could hardly bother them, and it was difficult to hold a crowd ountable byw. But she thought that after bullying her daughter, they still wanted to use her money and resources to study abroad. That was absolutely impossible.


    Regarding Jincheng University, she didn''t give a clear reason why she stopped the quota. She only said briefly that after repeated discussions, herpany had decided to allocate the overseas study quota to high school students instead. This would also save university ces and nurture more talents.


    The purpose of Vice Principal Liu''s visit this time was to try to persuade her again, but he found that An ZhiXia''s words were perfectly watertight. She maintained an attitude that waspletely for the sake of the school and society, leaving him no way to intervene at all.


    After returning home disappointed, he happened to mention this matter and learned that An ZhiXia was the daughter of university president An JingZhi.


    Now it became clear. After sponsoring the university for several years, she suddenly switched to high school for this reason.


    As veterans in the same industry, Vice Principal Liu and President An were acquainted with each other.


    He was polite and courteous to ZhiXia, but took on apletely different attitude when facing An JingZhi.


    In a matter that he was clearly in the right originally, after learning what happened to Pei Wanqing at school, Vice Principal Liu finally understood the specific reasons.


    He knew of this girl Pei Wanqing. She was as outstanding as the other two girls in her ss. The three took turns ranking first in ss, and they were all beautiful and cheerful, looking educated and sensible.


    Such a girl was extremely outstanding, yet she suddenly dropped out for reasons of studying abroad not long ago. Her family was well off so the school could not force her to stay, and it did not upy the school''s study abroad quota either, so the school actively helped process relevant formalities.


    After learning about this, Vice Principal Liu no longer felt wronged and did not have the nerve to look for ZhiXia again.


    This also made him realize that in educating students, it was not just about imparting knowledge, but even more important to give more guidance on moral character.


    Zhang''s wife was busy supervising the packing of New Year''s gifts while ZhiXia got up early to make food for the few children, and left a portion in the space warehouse for Pei Wanqing as well.


    She would asionally go to the space warehouse to eat something, but most of the time the dishes remained untouched, because she was with ssmates most of the time, eating together. She would only miss her mother''s cooking especially when she missed home a lot.


    After seeing the children off to school, ZhiXia had just breathed a sigh of relief when she saw An JingZhiing in pushing a bicycle.


    "The little ones left?" he asked.


    "They just went out. Have you eaten?" ZhiXia said, "There are still buns left in the kitchen. Want to eat something?"


    She was a little puzzled in her heart. Ever since she changed his hairstylest time, An JingZhi now looked displeased at all of them. Thest two times he came over he was forcibly dragged along by Zhou Nan and the olddy.


    After interacting for a period of time, she realized that he was the face-conscious type who regarded face more importantly than life itself.


    It was rare for him toe over, so ZhiXia still had to enthusiastically entertain him. After all, she had angered him quite a bitst time.


    "Don''t be busy, I came after eating," An JingZhi told her about Liu Cun looking for him yesterday, and asked her at the same time, "Aren''t you giving that overseas study quota to our high school just to piss him off on purpose?"


    In these few years, ZhiXia had done quite a few things that poked at his sore spot. The overseas study quota was one of those things.


    And because he had wronged her back then, he felt somewhat embarrassed to talk about some matters, so he could only forcibly swallow them. After a long time it became stifling to himself.


    "I did have that idea, I just don''t know if your school wants it."


    The words ZhiXia uttered would certainly not just be empty talk or to piss anyone off. Now she was a well-known figure after all, and had to take responsibility for her words, otherwise if it caused trouble that would be embarrassing for her.


    Since it was such a great favor being actively sought, how could An JingZhi possibly refuse? He agreed on the spot, "This is a good thing, how could we not want it? But you have to keep your word. You can''t change your mindter and say you won''t sponsor it anymore. That would have a huge impact on the school too."


    He was nearing retirement age. To have this good thing happen before retirement could also be considered his contribution.


    With these overseas students quota for publicity, their high school would definitely be one that everyone rushed to get into, although it was already not bad now, who didn''t want it to be even better?


    "You can rest assured, I am not fickle," ZhiXia said. As for Jincheng University, if it hadn''t been for those students of truly horrendous moral character, she would not have withdrawn funding so drastically either.


    She may not be omnipotent, but she had a say over how her own hard-earned money was spent.


    "That''s good then," An JingZhi sighed, "I''m not insisting on deducing something from you, but there is one thing I have to remind you - you''re still young yet have such great wealth, you need to understand that it''s hard to endure the cold when you''re in a high position. Those who are rich should be benevolent. It was because your great grandfather was kindhearted and generous that our family has been safe and steady all these years. No matter when, having a kind heart is key to being a good person. When you earn money, you should do good deeds. Only then can you prosper for long. You should learn this from the Ji Family. Look at them, they''re either aiding mountainous areas or holding charity auctions every day, who knows how they spend their money, but their fame for doing charity resounds loud..."


    "I understand this philosophy. I''ve always been doing charity too. Every year, ourpany allocates a certain percentage of our profits to help the poor and needy. I just haven''t publicized it like others." ZhiXia didn''t want that kind of publicity for what she did. As long as she had a clear conscience about what she did, that was enough. She didn''t need everyone to know about it.


    Like thest charity auction held by the Ji Family, which they imed was to help education in mountainous areas, she also sentrge quantities of learning materials to those remote and impoverished areas every year. Given her spatial abilities, obtaining these materials in bulk was minimal effort and cost for her, almost negligible.


    However, for the people in this world, many things were still hard toe by.


    She also coborated with Third Elder Brother''s hospital to provide aid to patients who couldn''t afford medical treatment. Just this effort alone ounted for a considerable amount of spending every year, since quite a lot of people still couldn''t afford healthcare these days.


    "So what I want to remind you is this - you''ve done it, but if you don''t publicize it, it''s equivalent to not having done it. Simrly, whether you''ve done it or not, as long as you spread the word and everyone knows about it, that''s your credit."


    He thought ZhiXia didn''t understand this logic, but actually she understood everything clearly. She just wasn''t keen to fight for credit.


    An JingZhi had said what he needed to say. As for how to carry it out, he couldn''t make that decision. It would depend on ZhiXia''s own preference.


    But confirming the international student quotas today was genuinely exciting news. He nned to announce this as soon as he returned, given that the college entrance examinations wereing up next year. Releasing this news now would also motivate the students.

 Chapter 426: 426 Starts Fighting Back

    <h4>Chapter 426</h4>


    However, the change in this matter still brought considerable hidden troubles for her. But these were all expected things. Even if a stormes, she will not be afraid at all.


    At dinner time on the sixteenth day of the twelfth lunar month, Jiang Tao came over with a document, his face full of gloom.


    Knowing that summer had just sat down and hadn''t eaten yet, she took the chopsticks handed over by Xiaoliu and asked, "Have you eaten yet? Sit down and eat something?"


    Jiang Tao shook his head and cautiously opened his mouth, "Boss Pei, I came to find you because I have an urgent matter. Otherwise, you can eat firstter?"


    The matter was urgent, and he didn''t care if he would disturb her.


    Usually Pei Jing was not at home most of the time, and Knowing Summer lived alone with several children, and Jiang Tao was also a man with a sense of proportion. Usually if something came up, he would also contact by phone, rarelying back home.


    So it could be guessed that he must have important things toe at this time point.


    Knowing that summer put down her chopsticks and told the triplets and Xiaoliu to continue eating, she stood up and said, "Let''s go to the yard to talk."


    "Take a look at this." As soon as she left the living room, Jiang Tao couldn''t wait to hand over what was in his hand to Knowing Summer.


    She took it and took a look. Although she was a little surprised, it was still something she had expected.


    "There are only two people for the six quotas now. What is the attitude of the other four?"


    What Knowing Summer had in her hand was a news release from a famous big reporter in Jincheng, whose main purpose was to criticize the Sheng''an Group for inexplicably canceling the study abroad quotas for Jincheng University, disappointing and depressing the original hopeful students.


    However, there were only two students who appeared in the news release for the time being, while the Sheng''an Group would fund six students every year, that is, four people were not involved.


    "I haven''t had time to understand the situation of these few people yet. This news release was contacted by a reporter this afternoon. The other party''s main purpose is to seek money and hopes that we can spend money to avoid disaster." Jiang Tao exined to Knowing Summer the cause of the matter, "If this matter is not properly resolved, the other party will release this news release tomorrow, so I came to disturb you sote."


    "Then what do you think, how should this matter be dealt with?" Knowing summer asked him.


    "Boss Pei, I have a bold idea..." When Jiang Tao came, he had been thinking all the way. When Knowing Summer asked, he immediately prepared a strategy, "Instead of spending money to avoid disasters, it''s better to make this matterpletely sensational. Pull out all of Miss Wanqing��s experience at school, including Ms. Pei Shuangshuang��s affairs. A notice must also be issued. Although Miss Wanqing has temporarily gone abroad, she will eventuallye back. If it is covered up, it may cause even greater trouble when discovered by others in the future. It might as welly it out by ourselves, to revive from death, most people see these things just to watch the excitement, used to following other people''s thoughts, we can spend some moneyter to find someone to guide public opinion. Even if Ms. Pei��s reputation cannot be whitewashed, in today''s society, her whole family and daughter''s reputation should not be implicated because of one person''s indiscretion."


    It was no wonder that so many people were recruited back then, and only Jiang Tao could now exercise all powers in Knowing Summer''s absence.


    The man had ideas, ability, and was bold enough, which were qualities that many people did not have.


    In fact, when she decided to stop the Jincheng University study abroad quotas, Knowing Summer had anticipated that it would offend others. Those were knowledgeable people who understood better how to use public opinion pressure to force people to yield.


    But she still decided to do so, also agreeing with Jiang Tao��s reasoning.


    Although Wanqing had gone abroad, her daughter should onlyck an escape route, not be forced to escape gray-faced.


    "Then hand over this matter to you, pay attention to one point, since we choose to make use of the direction of public opinion, we cannot offend reporters and newspaper agencies. So we still have to spend the money that needs spending, first maintain good rtions. I see this reporter''s writing skills are good. There may be a ce where we need him in the future." Knowing Summer urged.


    "Well, I know." Jiang Tao nodded, and then suggested, "In fact, I think we can consider acquiring a newspaperpany. After all, now that the Sheng''an Group''s development momentum is fierce, especially in real estate, the probability of encountering such things in the future is estimated to be unavoidable. With a newspaperpany under our hands, we can better control the direction of public opinion. The Ji family in Xiangjiang has radio stations, and they were also constantly contacting newspaperpanies at the end ofst year. That''s why they can make the reputation for doing charity so loud."


    Over the years, the Sheng''an Group has also been doing charity, only doing it more sporadically without setting up a special charity organization. But it has indeed been using its profits to do charity, unlike the Ji family who, every time they do anything rted to charity auctions and the like, use other people''s money to build up the family''s reputation, boastfully reporting it afterwards to publicize the family name.


    This made Jiang Tao always feel that the boss was a good boss, just too aloof, and too down to earth,cking some calction.


    "You can go ahead and handle these things. Put the matter of the newspaperpany on the back burner for now. Resolve the study abroad quota issue first. I don''t care about Pei Shuangshuang��s reputation, but Wanqing��s and the Pei family��s reputation must be salvaged as much as possible."


    After Jiang Tao left, Knowing Summer went back to eat.


    The few children were still sitting around the dining table, none of them moving their chopsticks.


    "Why aren''t you guys eating?" Knowing Summer asked.


    "We were waiting for mom toe back to eat together." Xiaosan immediately pulled chairs and handed chopsticks, appearing extremely sensible.


    Xiaoliu asked her, "Mom, if my sister''s reputationes backte, can shee back?"


    What they didn''t say was that they had all been eavesdropping on Knowing Summer''s conversation outside just now.


    They were not interested in acquiring newspaperpanies and study abroad quotas. Wanqing was what they were most worried about.


    Although the second sister was fierce, and would sometimes even beat him, they used to look forward to getting away from the second sister. But when this wish really came true, they always felt empty inside.


    Especially every time they made mistakes, they missed the time when the second sister taught them a lesson.


    Xiaowu answered before Knowing Summer, "Don''t think beautifully. The second sister has gone out to study. She can''te back withoutpleting her studies."


    Last time in cyberspace he happened to meet the second sister. He had to sigh that the current second sister was truly unrestrained. It was said that mother bought her a house abroad. Plus she saved some money herself during the summer vacation, and the family gives her living expenses every month. Now she also had absolute freedom. Every Sunday she would call ssmates over to her house for a party.


    He still didn��t understand what that was. The second sister said it was simr to the gatherings in China, just having tea and chatting with ssmates and the like.


    Anyway, freedom is really great.


    Unlike him, who had to be disciplined every day.


    However, he dared only think this in his heart and didn''t dare say it out loud, for fear of getting beaten.

 Chapter 427: 427 Strength Determines Destiny

    <h4>Chapter 427</h4>


    "Don''t they have holidays abroad?" Little Four asked naively.


    Knowing that they were just chatting aimlessly rather than expecting her to answer, Zhi Xia sighed helplessly and said, "If you have any questions, you can leave a note for her on the table in the space. She will reply when she has time."


    Let the siblings contact more, so they won''t feel estranged from Wanqing when shees back.


    An Jingzhi still maintained the habit of reading the newspaper every morning, as he had done for many years. Zhou Nan was used to getting up early every day, taking the newspaper from the mailbox at the door, and putting it on the coffee table in the living room for him, so that he could get it as soon as he got up in the morning.


    Today was no exception, continuing the habit of the past few decades.


    An Jingzhi put on his sses, picked up the newspaper, and the biggest headline was clearly visible.


    Jin City''srgest private enterprise Sheng''an Group reneged on its promise and canceled the overseas study quotas for no reason.


    Jin City University was the most popr school in recent years because it provided quotas for overseas study every year. As soon as this was revealed, it attracted quite a lot of attention, especially from those students who were striving to get into Jin City University.


    However, at the same time, as the principal, An Jingzhi''s school became popr.


    Before he could feel happy, anger rushed to his head.


    Because this article was simply nonsense,pletely ignorant of the truth, and was written entirely from the perspective of the critics.


    It also brought up Pei Shuangshuang��s incident some time ago, as well as the usation that Sheng''an Group��s chairman only knew how to make money and did not give back to society. It evenpared it with Ji Family Jewelry, saying that Sheng''an Group was not one-thousandth as good as Ji Family Jewelry, andpletely dragged Sheng''an Group through the mud.


    When An Jingzhi arrived at Zhi Xia''s ce, she had just hung up Jiang Tao''s phone call.


    Seeing here in, Zhi Xia was still in a good mood, smiling as she sent off several children.


    An Jingzhi calmed down his anger and asked her, "Did you read today''s newspaper?"


    "I did."


    Zhi Xia instantly understood why he hade over. She was about to invite him in to talk when she heard An Jingzhi use: "You still look so happy after reading it? I reminded you about this matter a few days ago. One should keep a low profile in life and a high profile in work, especially when doing good deeds. Now it''s been revealed, no matter how much good you''ve done, if no one knows about it, it''s as if you haven''t done it at all..."


    An Jingzhi rambled on and on, but Zhi Xia could discern that it was all for her own good.


    She patiently listened to him finish before inviting him into the room and telling him her ns for dealing with this matter.


    Subsequently, An Jingzhi finally felt relieved.


    "As long as you know what you''re doing, I was worried all morning. Now that you already have a n, I won��t fret unnecessarily."


    Perhaps due to his advanced age, An Jingzhi no longer cared as much as before. Especially when it came to children��s matters, things they could resolve themselves, he was no longer willing to intervene.


    The incident continued to ferment for two days. Not to mention rtives and friends, even many neighbors hade to inquire about it.


    Zhi Xia had lived here for many years and was usually quite generous and cheerful. She had a good rtionship with her neighbors.


    Besides, the neighbors also understood Pei Shuangshuang��s situation. She had long ceased to live with Zhi Xia, and they had watched Wanqing grow up nearby so there was absolutely no problem with her personal character.


    Another two days passed and Jiang Taopiled a list of Sheng''an Group��s charity projects over the years, each with an official government stamp, and published it in the Jincheng Daily.


    Public opinion suddenly took a big turn. Sheng''an Group waspletely exonerated of all usations and even gained a reputation for doing good deeds anonymously.


    Next was the incident of Wanqing being bullied and isted at school. Among the participants were those two outstanding students who contacted the reporter, one of whom even tried to assault Wanqing. Fortunately, Wanqing, who had some martial arts skills, gave him a good beating, leaving him resentful.


    In order to thoroughly turn the tables, even Pei Shuangshuang had to stand from the victim��s perspective to clear her name. Fortunately, she had insisted during thewsuit that the painting was secretly painted by Mu Yang, so Pei Shuangshuang was also a victim.


    Therefore, as things progressed to the end, the real culprit Mu Yang still suffered the greatest damage, often dragged out to be scolded a few times.


    Before the end of the year, the incident was finally settled.


    When others mentioned thosedies of the Pei family, it was with a sympathetic attitude, feeling that they were really unlucky - just because one sister had an unreliable partner, the reputation of the whole family was damaged.


    They no longer spoke about Pei Shuangshuang like before in a derogatory way about her body and appearance, extending such talk to the other women of the Pei family.


    Pei Xiang couldn��t wait to call Zhi Xia and ask, "Auntie, what exactly is going on? My former leader from the art troupe said they would transfer us back and said I had a good aunt whopletely resolved the matter. How exactly did you resolve it?��


    Pei Xiang had been transferred out recently so she was not in Jincheng and did not know what had happened theretely.


    Although Pei Sheng and Jiang Su knew about it, just mentioning Pei Shuangshuang made their teeth itch with hatred. They were even less likely to mention her or the incident in front of their daughter.


    The old leader of the art troupe had contacted Pei Xiang directly, so her parents had no idea that she and her husband could be transferred back, otherwise they would have been excited long ago.


    Zhi Xia exined to her what had happened these past few days, and public opinion had also reversed the reputation of the Pei family, so she could return with confidence and no one would look at her with colored sses anymore.


    Pei Xiang was naturally overjoyed at this. She and her husband had just been transferred to another ce. Although there was housing, it was just two small rooms, of course not as spacious as home.


    Besides, with someone at home to help take care of the children, it was much more rxing for them. Plus her parents were getting on in years without a son to rely on, so having her around was reassuring.


    Although her husband was not a son-inw who married into the family, the sisters had long reached a tacit understanding that the couple would be responsible for supporting Pei Xiang��s parents in their old age until they passed away. As for the family property, the eldest sister said she didn��t want any, but Pei Xiang could not take it all either. They both maintained a courteous attitude on this point and there was no conflict.


    Because of Er Maid, Zhi Xia and Pei JianGuo hadpletely fallen out for about two years without any contact.


    It was only startingst year that Pei JianGuo sought Zhi Xia��s help for something, while Zhi Xia also needed Pei JianGuo��s assistance. During the New Year, Pei JianGuo came to deliver New Year gifts and Zhi Xia epted them, also giving some return gifts.


    On the 20th day of the 12th lunar month, the batch of New Year gifts that Mrs. Zhou had helped pack had already been distributed, with 10 catties of pork allocated per person.


    These had already flooded the space, directly packing 200,000 heads to therge-scale livestock raisers to help ughter, plus another 1,000 heads as processing fees.


    The meat that Zhi Xia usually consumed was mostly from ancient foreign dimensional beasts, so facing so much meat, she really had a headache thinking about how to consume it all.


    People all said that Sheng''an Group had good benefits, with the boss giving out big gift packages of rice, flour, fruits and meat every holiday.


    Moreover, looking at the charity credentials of Sheng''an Group��s projects over the years published a few days ago, whenever a ce suffered a disaster, it was the boss who donated the most and most practical supplies.


    Yet they did not know she had so much extra of these things. She counted on being able to consume some every holiday, and whenever a ce was in need, she would help out in a timely manner. It was not in vain that she had gained the space.


    The triplets were already thirteen years old, taller than Zhi Xia now.


    She assigned them tasks to deliver New Year gifts to the An, Pei Yong, and Pei Sheng families, as well as Fourth Sister next door. She thought that since Pei JianGuo hadest year and there were still gifts left, she asked Little Sixth to go with Ping''an to deliver him a portion as well.


    A few dayster, he came.


    Perhaps stimted by the gifts from a few days ago, his New Year gifts this year were exceptionally generous.


    Pei Jing would not be back for another couple of days. Without much to say, Zhi Xia let Pei JianGuo go sit in the living room and had the triplets keep himpany.


    Fortunately, Pei JianGuo said he was going to Pei Yong��s ce and did not stay too long.


    Only when leaving, he suddenly asked Zhi Xia, "Sister-inw, I heard Xiang Xiang and her husband areing back, is that right?"

 Chapter 428: 428 Don鈥檛 Want Her Back

    <h4>Chapter 428</h4>


    "I think she''s preparing toe back, but I''m not too sure. After all, they were both quite hurt by this matter. I heard that Xiangxiang bumped into some gangsters on her way back one night. Fortunately someone was there to pick her up that day, otherwise something bad could have happened," Zhixia said exaggeratedly. Then she looked thoughtfully at Pei JianGuo and asked, "Could it be that you''re asking this for Pei Shuangshuang?"


    "I..." Pei JianGuo was visibly hesitant. After psyching himself up for a long time, he still didn''t have the nerve to admit it. "No, Shuangshuang is doing fine now too. It''d be good to give her more time to calm herself, otherwise she''d always feel restless. I was just asking casually. After all, Auntie refused to even talk to me for a long time because of this incident. Never mind, I won''t bother you anymore. I should get going."


    Pei JianGuo wasn''t lying about this matter.


    Jiang Su was a very generous woman to begin with. No matter how much conflict she had with Wang Yue, she never brought it upon the children.


    But this time, her bottom line had truly been crossed.


    She could tolerate being bullied herself, but she could not tolerate her child receiving such grievance.


    What''s more, her eldest daughter had been following the army for years withouting back even once. She had been relying on her youngest daughter''s family to apany her, so when this happened, of course she was furious!


    Watching Pei JianGuo''s disappearing figure, Zhixia very ungenerously rolled her eyes.


    She dared to say that Pei JianGuo must be asking for Pei Shuangshuang. And Wang Yue must have coerced him to do so.


    Otherwise, with Pei JianGuo''s selfish personality, he would not have randomly thought of his sister.


    Luckily, he was too proud, so he got deterred by her and rushed to deny it.


    If he really had the nerve to ask straightforwardly, Zhixia was afraid she wouldn''t have been able to control her temper and chased him out.


    With their tangled rtionship,pletely cutting ties was also unrealistic. But neither side wanted to be irritated by the other from time to time.


    After walking out of the door, Pei JianGuo also heaved a deep sigh. He truly regretted not withstanding his mother''s coercion to ask that question. In fact, they even wanted Zhi Xia''s help to arrange a job for Shuangshuang.


    Arranging for Shuangshuang toe back wasn''t the hardest part, since she could go wherever she wanted with her own free will. No one could stop her.


    The difficulty lied in the job.


    So many people couldn''t find jobs. Job opportunities were even more scarce than before.


    She was originally an ountant at a factory in Jincheng. Her transfer out was also arranged by Pei Yong. Her original ounting position had already been transferred away. Now that she wanted toe back, of course that wouldn''t work.


    When Wang Yue went to ask Pei Yong, she was directly rejected. Without a job, Shuangshuang wouldn''t have an ie source when she came back. With her personality, she definitely wouldn''t be willing to run a small business. As for bigger businesses, needless to say she didn''t have the ability, at least she didn''t have the capital.


    So after thinking it through, Wang Yue set sight on Zhi Xia.


    She definitely didn''t have much face asking Zhi Xia herself. But her son still kept in touch with their family, and Shuangshuang was part of the younger generation. As her auntie, shouldn''t she help the child?


    Wang Yue had had this idea for a while now. Ever since knowing Xiangxiang would transfer back, she had been working on her son''s mind. But Pei JianGuo also knew it wasn''t a very glorious thing to do, so he kept refusing to cooperate.


    Now he was truly worn out, so he thought he might as well thicken his skin to ask about it. At least he tried his best.


    Of course, he overestimated himself in the end. He still cared too much about keeping face.


    Back at home, Wang Yue had been waiting for a long time already. Liu Chunhua was ordered around busily without a break.


    When Pei JianGuo got home, Wang Yue was still criticizing Liu Chunhua for not folding the quilt in the room neatly. She said it should have been folded into a tidy square stack ced at the head of the bed.


    Hearing this, he couldn''t stand it and spoke up, "Mom, this is my house. I''m in my 30s now. How we spend our days is our own business. Can you please stop meddling so much?"


    Liu Chunhua was instantly moved to tears. To be fair, apart from his refusal to give her a child, there was little Pei JianGuo fell short of.


    Of course, this was merely based on Liu Chunhua''s own perspective. After all, her upbringing meant a submissive personality.


    Under the influence of the older generation in her family, the man was the master when at home other than working, while the woman served diligently and endured beatings and mistreatment.


    Compared to the past, her current life was much easier. She only needed to take care of Pei JianGuo''s daily life, and asionally he would bring her out for meals and buy her clothes. Her mother never enjoyed this kind of life after following her father for an entire lifetime. Liu Chunhua was truly content.


    Hearing Pei JianGuo''s usation, Wang Yue was taken aback first. Her gaze towards him also turned disbelieving. At the same time, she felt more disdain towards Liu Chunhua.


    In the past, she would have lost her temper already.


    But times had changed. For Shuangshuang''s sake, she still needed to rely on Pei JianGuo''s coordination. Even if she was unwilling, she had to cajole him now.


    "Fine, fine. I won''t say anymore. Isn''t it all for your good? Young people don''t understand how to spend their days. Can''t I teach her a thing or two..."


    While her mouth said she would stop, she still rattled on for a long while. Only when she saw Pei JianGuo''s face get darker, did she hurriedly smile and ask him, "JianGuo, what did your auntie say about what I asked you to ask her? With such a hugepany under her, and several factories too, arranging a job for your sister should be easy for her right? Besides, your sister has been an ountant for many years and has experience. Good ountants aren''t easy to find these days."


    Pei JianGuo remained silent. He didn''t know how to exin to Wang Yue.


    Although he didn''t get to asking about the job, her expression had already told him the answer. Asking would only humiliate himself further.


    But he knew Wang Yue would not understand this.


    She had always been like this - arbitrary, following her own preferences to handle things, yet unaware that not everyone had the obligation to cater to her.


    "Could it be that Zhi Xia refused to help?" Seeing Pei JianGuo''s silence, Wang Yue''s expression immediately changed. "I knew that woman is petty. We did have conflicts in the past, but that was ages ago. Shuangshuang still calls her Auntie. She wouldn''t even help with such a small request, hmph!"


    She didn''t doubt that Pei JianGuo did not ask at all, because her son would never betray his own family. She could only find fault in others.


    Even Pei JianGuo felt it was unbearable to hear. He exined, "It wasn''t that she didn''t want to help, but that I didn''t get to asking."


    This made Wang Yue, who had been scolding away, incredulous. "Why? JianGuo, she''s your sister. Don''t you not want her toe back like everyone else?"

 Chapter 429: 429 ends with Joy and sorrow.

    <h4>Chapter 429</h4>


    "Mom, you also know that no one hopes her toe back, why must you insist, making everyone unhappy?" Pei JianGuo could not stand such questioning, and asked rhetorically: "Don''t you see what Shuangshuang has done, you just know to indulge her unconditionally. At first when she was with Mu Yang, I advised her not to find a man much worse than herself. As a man myself, I know men''s mindset better than anyone else. No man hopes to be dominated by a woman. Everyone will be happy to pursue an attractive and wealthy girl at the beginning, but after some time, they will feel psychologically imbnced, especially those men who don''t know how to work hard by themselves. They will only clip the wings of women to sink with them. But none of you were willing to listen to me. Shuangshuang med me for thinking too badly of people. You said Shuangshuang had no choice but to give up and be with Mu Yang, and they were already over 30 years old, not getting married would beughable. At worst, the family could help her more in the future, supervise Mu Yang more, but what was the result?"


    Why did Pei JianGuo have such thoughts?


    Because when he faced Guo Momo who was admitted to university at that time, he had this sense of inferiority all along.


    Everyone knew how precious university students were that year. When othersplimented his wife for working hard, and praised Guo Momo''s unlimited future prospects, he would feel very ufortable.


    In fact, when they were together, Guo Momo had manyints and was enduring him. He could almost imagine that after she graduated from university and got a good job, the gap between them would be wider and wider. He would be even more ipetentpared to Guo Momo.


    So he was inferior and vicious at that time.


    He even wanted to force her to give up going to university by all means, hoping that she would stay obediently at home, having children and doing housework.


    Looking back now, he couldn''t help feeling disgusted at his own thoughts back then.


    But it could not be denied that this was exactly what he thought at that time.


    Wang Yue looked at Pei JianGuo, "Are you ming me?"


    "I''m not ming you, I just want you to be realistic." Pei JianGuo said, "You asked to transfer Shuangshuang away just a few months ago. Everyone in the family swept her scandalous reputation off the ground. I was even afraid of people at mypany asking about my rtionship with Pei Shuangshuang. The problem had just been resolved, and now you want to bring her back. But the problem is that no one hopes or wees her toe back. In this situation, what good will it do Shuangshuang if shees back? Do you think that she is in the position of a victim now so no one ridicules and points fingers at her? No, after people''s brief sympathy, they will stillugh at her stupidity behind her back, and even use disgusting words toment on her body..."


    "p!"


    When Pei JianGuo insisted on leaving home for Guo Momo��s sake back then, Wang Yue didn��t even hit him.


    But now, she really couldn''t stand to listen anymore.


    Her daughter was not so unworthy in her heart. As her brother, he should not talk about his own sister like that either.


    But from Pei JianGuo''s point of view, he felt that his words were still very vague, precisely because Pei Shuangshuang was his sister.


    He would feel heartache and sympathy for her, but others would not.


    Although the words were harsh, it had to be admitted that this was the fact.


    If it was someone else, the words would only be more harsh and disgusting.


    But Wang Yue, who was blinded by kinship, could not see this clearly, nor would she understand.


    "Pei JianGuo, you really disappoint me so much."


    Everyone was not good to her, but her children had always been her heart. She could tolerate being hurt herself, but she could never allow them to be bullied by others.


    And now, her son used such dirty words to describe her daughter. How could she ept it?


    It would only make her feel that Pei JianGuo was too close to the Pei family, so he was influenced by them, and did not even take his own mother and sister seriously.


    Wang Yue left in disappointment after being hit hard. Pei JianGuo was also ufortable in his heart, sittingnguidly on the sofa.


    Liu Chunhua hesitated for a moment, walked over carefully, tentatively put her hand on his face, and asked distressingly, "Does it hurt?"


    Pei JianGuo shook his head. At over 30 years old, he was no longer the silly young man he used to be, and he understood that no matter kinship or family, they needed to be maintained in order to be harmonious.


    Even if he just wanted to be alone for a while now, he did not reject Liu Chunhua''s approach, butforted her by pinching the back of her hand with his fingers, showing sufficientfort.


    "My mom is like this. She always wants everyone to listen to her. If shees to teach you again in the future, just pretend not to hear her and tell me when Ie back. I will talk to her."


    "It''s ok. I really did many things improperly. Mom means well to teach me." Liu Chunhua said.


    Pei JianGuo pulled his mouth corner hard. He knew clearly in his heart whether it was true.


    She had been like this for a long time. Whenever she was in a bad mood, she would make the whole family restless.


    In the past, she would vent her anger on Grandpa and Second Uncle. Now that she could no longer get to the Pei family people, and Shuangshuang and him had gone too far as her own children, she could only take it out on Liu Chunhua.


    In fact, Pei JianGuo understood everything, but he had always avoided it since he was young, and was used to pretending to be muddled about many things. He didn''t care who was hurt as long as the fire didn''t burn him.


    However,pared to before, he was much better now. He had changed his wife several times, and they all left him. No matter what, he should have learned something.


    If he got divorced again, he would be the only one embarrassed.


    "Chunhua, go and cook me an egg to apply." Pei JianGuo actually was not that delicate. He just wanted to send her away and have some quiet time for himself.


    "Ok, I''ll go now." Liu Chunhua turned away with a distressed look on her face, then immediately changed her expression after turning around.


    If they had a child, she and Pei JianGuo would be a very good couple, but without children, this had always been Liu Chunhua''s biggest concern.


    She still craved the life together with him, but would no longer be full of him like before.


    She was selfish by nature. Otherwise, she would not have plotted against Pei JianGuo, and still in such a cruel way.


    Perhaps neither of them knew that when she saw Wang Yue p Pei JianGuo, and then saw Wang Yue''s expression of being extremely angry with Pei JianGuo, she actually felt extremelyfortable inside, and even hoped they would have a fight.


    The eggs were already cooked, and Pei JianGuo had gone to the bedroom. Hey t on the bed with his hands pillowing his head, squinting his eyes slightly, still wearing his socks.


    After all, he was a man, and Wang Yue didn''t use much force either, so the p didn''t leave any trace on his face.


    But Liu Chunhua still applied the warm egg back and forth carefully, while ridiculing in her heart that a grown man could be so delicate.


    When the egg touched his cheek, Pei JianGuo reached out and took it over, "I''ll do it myself."


    Liu Chunhua didn''t insist. She sat on the edge of the bed, turned around, took off his socks, and covered him with a quilt. She said considerately, "Sleep for a while first. There are no ingredients at home. I''m going to buy some."


    From Pei JianGuo''s perspective, Liu Chunhua was a gentle and considerate wife, after all, she had always acted like this.


    Even if it was pretending, it was not easy to keep it up for so long.


    When people are particrly helpless, they tend to get close to those who are good to them.


    "Don''t go shopping. Let''s eat out tonight." Pei JianGuo grabbed her arm and pulled hard, and she fell into his arms.

 Chapter 430: 430 Don鈥檛 Want to Gloat

    <h4>Chapter 430</h4>


    Wang Yue returned home with a belly full of pent-up anger. Facing the empty big house, she suddenly felt a little lost and couldn''t help sobbing.


    At her age, she should have been surrounded by grandchildren, enjoying her retirement. But for some reason, she was living like this instead.


    Her son didn''t want to move back and didn''t want more children. Her only grandson wasn''t close to her. And her daughter, who she got along with best, lived far away. Now she couldn''t even find anyone to help her.


    Pei Jing only came back on the 28th day of the 12th lunar month. When he woke up from a nap, he was immersed in the festive atmosphere at home.


    The triplets and Little Sixth had already diligently put up the Spring Festival couplets. Pei Sheng rode his bike in from outside and excitedly said, "I just went to the back to give PingAn firecrackers. I heard you were back, so I came to see."


    It was customary for grandparents to buy gifts for the children during holidays. Usually, they would give firecrackers to boys and hairpins to girls. Currently, PingAn was the only grandson of the Pei family, so Know Xia and Pei Jing would be going to give gifts too.


    "I got backtest night. I was going to go see Second Brother and Second Sister-in-Law today, but you came first," said Pei Jing as he weed Pei Sheng inside.


    Pei Sheng said, "That reminds me, it''s good you came back now. Xiang Xiang came back yesterday. Second Sister-in-Law said to have everyonee over for dinner tonight. I already told Big Brother. Go let Little Sister knowter, and we''ll all go over tonight."


    What Pei Sheng didn''t say was that Jiang Su actually had no intention of inviting Pei Yong over, because she was still upset about the incident with Pei Shuangshuang. But she did genuinely want to invite Know Xia over for a meal.


    If it hadn''t been for Know Xia''s actions, Pei Xiang''s family wouldn''t have dared toe back.


    It was Pei Sheng who said it would be inappropriate not to invite Pei Yong. Jiang Su could see he was thinking of his big brother. She decided to let it go for now that the children were back home, rather than seem petty.


    Pei Sheng also didn''t stay long since his family was hosting dinner that night. He had to go back and help prepare.


    To be honest, his status at home had plummeted because of Pei Shuangshuang. Now when she and her mother spoke, he didn''t even dare to retort. He could only silently endure unfairness.


    Of course, such endurance could also be seen as a little romance between them in the family.


    Know Xia came back from outside with her bike loaded full. Sister Zhang hurried to help her. "Oh my, you bought so much stuff. I told you I''d go with you, but you insisted otherwise. You must have had a hard time lugging it all the way home!"


    "It was all hanging on the bike. I didn''t have to carry it. Why would it tire me out?" Of course Know Xia couldn''t let here along, or she''d have to figure out how to smuggle these things out of her space discreetly.


    Sister Zhang told Know Xia to go inside and rest. She brought the things into the kitchen to sort out herself.


    The family had arge refrigerator which made storing things very convenient.


    Know Xia had brought back chicken, duck, fish and meat. She stuffed them neatly into the fridge to preserve freshness. Since it was cold out, they would keep for several days without spoiling.


    Pei Jing told Know Xia about the dinner ns at Second Brother''s ce tonight. She handed him the firecrackers to take to the back for PingAn, along with a new set of clothes for PingAn to wear over the New Year.


    When they went over that evening, she also brought a big pork leg, since their family was thergest. Chenye hade back too. He and Pei Jing were about the same height, but his build was slightly more slender. They were both fully grown adults now. The triplets and Little Sixth were at the age where they could eat the most.


    Seeing Know Xiae over, Jiang Su was naturally extremely enthusiastic. She evenined that Know Xia shouldn''t have brought so much stuff.


    Know Xia politely tried to go to the kitchen to help, but Jiang Su stopped her. "Let''s not help today. Let Xiang Xiang and her husband cook. It''s entirely thanks to you that these two children coulde back. Even before they got here, they already said when they returned they wanted to properly thank you. I figured nothing is better than heartfelt intentions, so I decided to just have them make you a meal. I hope it''s alright whether it turns out well or not."


    Listening nearby, Pei Xiang felt embarrassed. She didn''t dare look at Pei Yong''s face. She reproached Jiang Su, "Mom, why are you saying these things?"


    The incident wasn''t Pei Yong''s fault, yet he was already put in a difficult position. Saying things like this now would only make him feel more awkward.


    They might as well not have invited him to this meal if it was going to be so ufortable.


    Pei Yong also sensed the implicit meaning in those words. Of course it made him feel awkward, but he was also a reasonable man. He understood that at a time like this, no matter how awkward, he had to endure.


    As the father of the culprit, he was in no position to say anything.


    Pei Sheng also felt awkward. He said, "Big brother, Little Sister, women say things we can''t interrupt. Let''s go, brothers, and talk outside. Don''tpete for space with them."


    After they had all gone out, Pei Xiang reprimanded Jiang Su, "Mom, that''s already in the past. Big Brother already feels bad enough. Don''t bring it up again in the future."


    "I won''t mention it again, I won''t mention it again. Really, we''ve suffered so much injustice, yet I can''t even say a word about it." Jiang Su was unhappy.


    Pei Xiang felt very helpless. She pulled Know Xia along, "Little Sister-in-Law, mainly because we all left, so the blow to my mom was quite big. She''s be like a totally different person these past days. Don''t take it to heart."


    "It''s nothing. I actually think Second Sister-in-Law is thoroughly venting herself now. It''s much better than always bottling it up like before," Know Xia said frankly.


    Pei Meng smiled. "Actually, it''s better to vent it out rather than bottle it up. She used to always suppress her feelings, and was actually seething inside. But she just wouldn''t say it out loud. Now that she can vent it out, it''s better. After all, it''s morefortable to displease others than to displease yourself."


    She also felt bad for Pei Yong. Having just the one son and daughter was already oppressive enough. The son finally matured in recent years, yet his daughter had made such a huge blunder. Those with weaker endurance probably would have been angered to death.


    "Since you don''t want me to help, I won''t meddle. I''ll go chat with your mom," said Know Xia. Looking at the kitchen, everything seemed ready. A hot pot soup was already simmering. The washed greens and mushrooms were also prepared. The remaining few dishes just needed to be steamed briefly before they could be served.


    "Okay, you go. I''ll tidy up the table. We can start eating soon," said Pei Xiang.


    One could see that while the rtionship between the three brothers might not change, the families were destined to grow distant.


    For instance, when Pei JianGuo had acted out in the past, no matter how chaotic he was, Jiang Su had never left him out of a dinner invitation. After all, he was the eldest son of the main room, and she had ced her hopes in him before. His position in her heart was surely different.


    Yet this time, for the first time, Jiang Su had directly ignored Pei JianGuo.


    In fact, if not for Pei Sheng''s mediation, she wouldn''t even have wanted to invite Pei Yong over.


    Know Xia chatted with Jiang Su for a while. As both daughter-inws and mothers of daughters, she could understand Jiang Su''s feelings better.


    Moreover, she and Wanqing still had wiggle room. Studying abroad would be more beneficial for Wanqing''s future. But Pei Xiang had already started working, and Jiang Su had no son. She had ced all her hopes on her young daughter and son-inw.


    Fortunately, dinner was still quite harmonious. No one brought up what had happened earlier.


    Only Pei Yong drank a lot. But he wasn''t a nasty drunk. Completely flushed, he just sat there, a little spaced out.


    It waste by the time the dinner ended.


    Pei Sheng wanted Pei Yong to stay over and sleep on the sofa until he sobered up before going home.


    Worried that Jiang Su wouldn''t like it, Pei Jing said he''d take Pei Yong back.


    There was limited space in the car. Chenye happened to be riding bikes with his two younger brothers.


    After getting home, Know Xia got out of the car. Pei Jing said, "Big Brother drank quite a bit today. I''m worried PingAn can''t look after him well, so I''ll stay in the back and keep an eye on him. You take the kids and sleep first."


    "Alright, hurry and take Big Brother back then," said Know Xia. She didn''t insist hee back either. She simply let PingAn stay home too.


    The brothers probably had a lot to talk about tonight. PingAn was still a child. Seeing too much would only make him worry.


    This year, some were ted while others were worried.


    Know Xia gave Sister Zhang time off.


    On New Year''s Eve, they prepared the reunion dinner in the space. They could start eating once Wanqing popped in for a bit.


    Little Sixth came a littlete. Heined to Wanqing, "Sis, tell me the truth. Did youe at this time on purpose to bezy? You didn''te during cooking but you came right after the food was ready."


    Wanqing hadn''t seen Little Sixth for many days. She rubbed his head into a mess as usual and exined at the same time, "How can your sis be sozy? It just happened that my ssmate asked me to do something urgent today. I came as soon as I finished."


    "I don''t care. You''re the only one who didn''t help with the cooking anyway. I''ll punish you by making you wash the dishester." Little Sixth struggled out of her ws and quickly hid behind his big brother.


    Wanqing didn''t listen to him at all. "I won''t wash the dishes. Don''t we have kitchen robots? It''s you guys who don''t want to use them and insist on doing it yourselves. I won''t busily do meaningless things like you."


    Chenye looked at the robot that was paused there, seeming to be lost in thought.


    Seeing the siblings bickering endlessly, Pei Jing quickly stopped their noise and told everyone to get ready for dinner.


    It was also noisy in Pei Sheng''s big family.


    Compared to them, Pei Yong''s family with PingAn was rtively peaceful and warm. Pei JianGuo and Liu Chunhua hade early today. They were busy cooking and cleaning up. Pei JianGuo was no longer the armchairmander he used to be. Pei Yong felt quite gratified about this.


    In private, he asked Pei JianGuo alone, "Didn''t I tell you to apany your mother during New Year? I have PingAn here, so it''s fine if you don''te. Since Shuangshuang is not here this year, both of you still came. Your mother must feel very lonely being alone?"


    Even though the rtionship between husband and wife had deteriorated to this extent, Pei Yong had never thought of making Wang Yue regret too much.


    Instead, he hoped she could live well, even better than when she was with him.


    Pei JianGuo sighed and asked Pei Yong, "Dad, actually my mother has changed a lot now too. Since you''re worried about her in your heart, why not give her another chance? You know she''s too proud to admit defeat, but she actually regretted it long ago in her heart."


    "Don''t say this in front of me in the future. Your mother and I were a mistake from the beginning of our lives. It was because I wasn''t determined enough at first that it led to the tragedy now. After suffering for most of our lives, it''s better for both of us to separate now. JianGuo, in the future..." Pei Yong waved his hand. "Forget it. I''m a failure myself. What right do I have to educate you? Just live your own life well. It''s very good as long as it''s stable like now."


    "Dad, don''t talk like that. You''re very good too..."


    Pei JianGuo didn''t know what to say either. In his understanding, his father was a good father, and his mother was also considerate to them. But this family just didn''t seem suitable together. There were always various conflicts. And his mother had the temper that she would make a scene even if you didn''t offend her. This made the family drift farther and farther apart.


    Sometimes she annoyed him too.


    Just like what happened a few days ago. She could be nice to herself but had to be condescending in front of Liu Chunhua and tried hard to suppress her.


    Pei JianGuo felt it was very bad. Because Liu Chunhua was different from Lu Keqin.


    She was gentle and beautiful. Although not perfect, she was a good wife in life and family. He wanted to walk with her all the way, so of course he couldn''t let her be wronged too much.


    Pei JianGuo was not stupid at all. On the contrary, he was very sly when it was beneficial to him.


    He was clearer than anyone that if not for Liu Chunhua, he wouldn''t marry such apatible wife again.


    And if he was alone, he would make the family a mess again. This was also what he didn''t want to endure.


    In the spacious and bright house, Wang Yue was sitting alone at the table. There was not even a New Year''s Eve dinner on the table. She didn''t prepare either, just cooked a casual bowl of noodles.


    Since the unhappy parting a few days ago, Pei JianGuo hadn''te again.


    She was too proud to go there. She had thought that since it was New Year, he should also bring his daughter-inw to visit her. In previous years, it was always Liu Chunhua who prepared the New Year''s Eve dinner. She had bought ingredients but didn''t cook.


    Today she slept the whole afternoon in one go. When she woke up, the house was still quiet.


    She thought that the couple must have gone to Pei Yong''s ce at noon and would definitelye in the afternoon.


    But unexpectedly, no one came until dusk when it was dark.


    There wereughing and frolicking sounds from next door, and adults scolding from time to time. Every household set off firecrackers for dinner, but she was still the only one sitting here enjoying loneliness.


    Sometimes Wang Yue couldn''t help wondering, obviously she was the most confident in the whole family at first, even Jiang Su could only look at her face. But now, how did her life be like this?


    Unfortunately she didn''t know that she was not the only one who was lonely this night.


    Her biological daughter was also looking up at the night sky in a dormitory of a small town.


    The next time Pei Shuangshuang''s news was heard again was because she was getting married.


    At that time, Zhi Xia was still wondering which man had such great taste to marry Pei Shuangshuang?


    The next day, she heard that Wang Yue was so angry that she fainted and went straight to the hospital.


    The reason was that she went to find Pei Yong.


    Wang Yue: "Shuangshuang can''t marry far away. And the ce is so far that if she really marries, she may not be able toe back twice in her life."


    Pei Yong: "It''s good if she doesn''te back. At least no one will be angered to death."


    Wang Yue: "Pei Yong, don''t you feel bad for Shuangshuang at all? She is your daughter. She has never been married before. Now she''s going to marry a man with two children whose wife just died!"


    Pei Yong: "It''s more shameful if an unmarried girl is not a maiden anymore. It''s better to hear that she marries a man whose wife just died. I feel more sorry for those two children instead. I don''t know what that man was thinking, having two children but not finding a woman who can live a life with them. At least JianGuo is better in this aspect."


    Then Wang Yue fainted from anger. Pei Yong sent her to the hospital.


    Zhi Xia watched PingAn demonstrate the scene at the time to Little Sixth. She really didn''t want to gloat but couldn''t help the corners of her mouth rise.


    Wang Yue deliberately avoided familiar people when making a phone call at the post office. But her angry roars still made everyone around look over.


    "I won''t go. Don''t expect me to ept that man either. If you dare to marry him, you are no longer my daughter." These were thest words Wang Yue said before hanging up.


    In contrast, Pei Yong was much more rational.


    Anyway, as a father, he had to go take a look when his daughter was getting married.


    A widower with two children was not a problem for Pei Yong at all. He didn''t even require the other party to be reliable. Instead, he hoped the other party could be more assertive to be able to handle Pei Shuangshuang''s antics.


    Otherwise, with her temper, the marriage may not evenst a few days.

 Chapter 431: 431 Maintaining this semblance of Decency.

    <h4>Chapter 431</h4>


    Pei Yong, who hade back from another ce, now had half of his hair turned white.


    No one cared who Pei Shuangshuang had married, and Pei Yong never took the initiative to mention it either.


    He still went to work every day as before, greeted others enthusiastically, and except for his white hair, his mental state was still quite good.


    In the summer of 1987, the construction of Hn Elegant Garden waspleted.


    There were a total of 16 buildings in themunity, each with its own independent entrance, and whether it wasndscaping or facilities, only the best materials were used.


    That night, Su Ying came over specially.


    "Zhi Xia, save one building in your Hn Elegant Garden for me. I discussed with your fourth brother and we n to move."


    "You are well informed. Since it has just been announced that the construction ispleted, it happens that I reserved a building for myself too. Why don''t you just live next to me and we can still be neighbors."


    Zhi Xia originally wanted to build afortable environment for herself, which was why she established Hn Elegant Garden.


    There was arge shopping mall and central street nearby, and in the second half of the year, the hospital where her third brother worked would also relocate there, so life would be more convenient.


    "Of course I''ve been keeping an eye on it." Su Ying said with a smile: "You don''t know, the houses in Hn Elegant Garden are being watched by more than just me. Many wealthy people are also eyeing them. I bet they will be sold out as soon as they are listed for sale. If you ask me, you built too few houses. There are so many rich people in Jin City in recent years, how can just these few buildings be enough?"


    "Well, there''s no other way. This is the onlynd avable, and we have toply with the city''s ns. It already took a lot of brain power just to build this Hn Elegant Garden. But if sales go well this time, we can focus on this in the next construction."


    If nothing unexpected happens, this will be the downtown of Jin City in the future, and it is also a region under rapid development currently.


    She just didn''t know whether she could obtain thend quota again for the next phase of construction.


    The first phase was built to test the waters. Back then, others needed her, while the second phase was an exploratory move where she cooperated well, and because the first phase sold well, she was given more quotas. But favors like these will be used up eventually, and people will still make decisions based on benefits.


    With the sess of the first two phases, there will definitely be more people wanting to get in on itter, and thepetition will only get fiercer.


    "I don''t understand this stuff. I only have talent for fashion design, so it''s only right that you make the big money." Su Ying said, "The kids are still waiting at home, I won''t chat with you too long. Are you free tomorrow? Let''s go take a look at the houses together. I can''t wait to get started on the renovation and move over as soon as possible."


    It wasn''t bad living in this house, but she could feel that Liu Ling had never been too friendly to her, just because she lived here.


    Having grown up always looking at others'' faces, now that Su Ying finally had some ability, she also wanted to be more free, and didn''t want to always feel like she owed someone.


    It wasn''t like she had no money. She could fully support a better life for herself.


    She didn''t think about moving before, because An ZhiAng was rarely home for years, and she didn''t dare to live alone with the children. Here there were Zhi Xia and Pei Yong, and the neighbors who had lived here for many years, so at least safety could be ensured.


    Now that even Zhi Xia was moving, Hn Elegant Garden was a gatedmunity, surrounded by walls, with security guards and property managers, so it goes without saying that those who could afford to buy there must be people with status and position. Safety wouldn''t be a concern living there.


    As for the house she lived in now, she never intended to im ownership anyway.


    It was the elders'' asset, and they could give it to whoever they wanted. She didn''t covet it and it wasn''t worth her plotting for.


    Su Ying was confident that although her business was not as big as Zhi Xia''s, her clothing factory had been doing well with its novel styles, and adding the family assets left by the Su family ancestors and the wealth divided from An ZhiAng, she had enough to squander for life without doing any work.


    "Alright, let''s go take a look tomorrow, and we can discuss renovation together."


    Zhi Xia saw her out, and when she turned around she saw her four sons who were now taller than her looking at her intently.


    "Mom, are we moving?" Xiao Liu had suddenly entered puberty in thest two months, and was now literally a croaky-voiced teenager, which was why he had not been very talkative recently.


    He was so excited this time that he ignored his voice.


    The triplets also looked very excited. Chen Ze raised his eyebrows and said, "Mom, will I finally get my own room after we move?"


    The house they lived in now was not small, but with so many children in the family, one room per person was still not enough.


    What''s more, although Pei Lao had passed away, his room was still kept as it was, and his memorial tablet was always on the cab to be worshipped during festivals and holidays. There was also a room with a leaky roof that was used as a storage room.


    So over the years, Chenye and Wanqing both had their own rooms, while the triplets had been sharing a room since birth. It was only in thest few years when they outgrew that room that Chen Yi moved in with Little Sixth, and Chen Ze and Chen An shared a room.


    Chen An looked at Chen Ze disdainfully, "Bro, I haven''tined about your smelly farts at night yet, and I let you stay with me. Are you not satisfied?"


    Chen Ze quickly exined, "That''s not what I meant. I just wanted my own room to be morefortable. And you toss and turn in your sleep, don''t you know? You''ve almost kicked me onto the floor several times."


    "No I haven''t, don''t make things up." Chen An denied it.


    Chen Yi and Little Sixth didn''t have much opinion. They didn''t have high requirements for their living environment, but were still curious about the new home.


    "Yes, we''re moving. As for how big the house is and whether it''s enough, you''ll find out when you go take a look tomorrow."


    Zhi Xia deliberately teased them by keeping it a mystery, then casually went back into the room, leaving the four brothers chattering endlessly.


    Early next morning, Zhi Xia and Su Ying set off, followed by several children. They could all ride bikes themselves now, so there were several bikes in the family.


    Fortunately it was no longer thest few years when bikes were still rare. Almost every household had them now, though families with six or seven bikes at once were still not many.


    At the entrance of Hn Elegant Garden, some people were still dealing with the leftover construction trash. As soon as Zhi Xia arrived, someone immediately came over to receive her.


    She told the others to get busy with their own work, while she took them on a tour herself.


    Having nned to live here from the start, she had alreadye countless times during the construction process.


    Zhi Xia took them directly to a building and opened the door to enter. At first nce, a veryrge swimming pool could be clearly seen in the yard.


    But it hadn''t beenpleted yet and there was no water in the pool.


    Little Sixth had already excitedly jumped in, "Mom, when can we move over? I can''t wait!"


    "Just wait. The interior hasn''t even been renovated yet. If you want to move here to swim, I estimate it''ll have to be around this time next year."


    "That long?" The obvious disappointed tone came from Chen An. He would take the college entrance exam next year and had wanted to go to the capital to find his big brother. It seemed now that he wouldn''t get to live in the new house for more than a few days.


    Zhi Xia was not joking with him, but stating the reality.


    Renovation wouldn''t take too long, but the house would have to be left empty for a period after renovation before moving in.


    She had also heard Little Fifth talk about his ns. But Chenye had already graduated and was currently studying further while working at the Academy of Sciences. The children were grown up now and also needed their own space. After the college entrance exam next year, she would also have to think about starting to prepare assets for the children.


    With a total of 6 children in the family and small age gaps between them, it would be better to prepare early instead of all at onceter when things would get busy and chaotic.


    The house had a total of 4 floors and upied arge area. The first floor had the living room, kitchen, dining room and bar counter, and two bedrooms, which of course would be left for sister-inw Zhang to rest when needed.


    The second and third floors had mostly rooms. Zhi Xia would definitely live on the second floor. When she got older and climbing up and down became tiring, she would have the convenience of being on a lower floor.


    The third floor was fully bedrooms. When the time came, her daughter could live with them on the second floor, while the boys could have the third floor.


    As for the fourth floor, Zhi Xia nned to make it a gym and home theater, and they could also enjoy the view from the rooftop during leisure time.


    Oh, right, there is also a wine cer in the basement. She doesn''t drink much, but the men in her family quite like to drink a bit during the holidays.


    The few rascals didn''t have the patience to listen to them talk, and had already run upstairs out of sight. Su Ying''s children had also gone with them. Zhi Xia reminded the triplets to keep an eye on them.


    After listening to Zhi Xia''s arrangements, Su Ying was extremely satisfied and praised Zhi Xia for knowing how to enjoy life.


    "Right, you said you''d leave the house next door for me. Let''s go over to the house next door and take a look." Su Ying was already impatient and pulled her along to go outside.


    Seeing other people''s houses is never as exciting as seeing your own.


    The second building wasn''t much different from the first one, just that there was no swimming pool in the yard. If you really wanted one, you could dig one yourself.


    After looking at the house, Su Ying''s mood was simr to the children''s, already impatient to move in.


    But unfortunately, just as Zhi Xia said, the house was not yet renovated, so there was no way to hurry things along.


    On the way back, Su Ying kept talking to Zhi Xia about the renovations. Zhi Xia had already thought about how she wanted to decorate the house when she was having it built, so she simply gave the renovation blueprints to Su Ying.


    After looking through them, Su Ying decided to follow Zhi Xia''s ns exactly, rather than make a mess of things as ayperson.


    Although Su Ying had made quite a bit of money in recent years, buying this house still used up a considerable amount of savings. Zhi Xia was building the houses to sell, and the real estate side was mainly Hu Zhou''s responsibility. She could only give Su Ying a family discount because they were rtives, at the same price as her own house.


    That''s right, Zhi Xia had to pay for her own house too. But at the end of the year when they divvied up the profits, she still got the lion''s share.


    What she could be certain of was that a house costing over 500,000 now, in this location, couldn''t be bought for even 10 million 10 yearster, or even tens of millions 20-30 yearster.


    Ideally, she wanted to hoard the houses here, but clearly that wasn''t viable.


    No matter how valuable the houses became, that was still decades away. They still owed the bank loans, and the construction bureau wanted to see a sellout, not her hoarding all the houses.


    They wanted upancy rates, talent inflows, sellouts as soon as sales started, scrambles and unmet demand. They had to make this ce prosperous, which would benefit future construction. Unupied ces were just empty shells, and could even hurt future property sales.


    Wanqing returned with Chen Ze picking her up, because Jin City''s airport was still under construction. She could only fly to other cities with airports, and her family didn''t want her taking the train home alone as a young girl. Luckily the triplets had grown up, and had gone together to An ZhiXian''s county over the new year. Now they could go out alone without worry, and any one of them could beat up several grown men, much safer than Wanqing alone.


    They hadn''t even gotten home yet when Zhou Nan sent someone to hurry them, telling them to go to the An''s for dinner that night.


    The two of them had returned quitete, so after dropping off their luggage at home, they hurried over to the An''s.


    On the way, Chen Ze asked Zhi Xia, "Mom, shouldn''t we buy a car? It''d be more convenient when going out, and you know how to drive. Wouldn''t it be nice to drive to work every day?"


    "Third brother, you''re not trying to get her to buy one because you want to drive it yourself, right?" Little Sixth didn''t care one way or the other about buying a car, since he couldn''t drive anyway.


    Chen Ze did have that intention, but didn''t dare admit it, hurriedly rebutting, "What nonsense are you talking? You want to see your third brother''s legs get broken from driving at this age?"


    Although he felt he could drive just fine, sadly he was underage, so could only wait a few years.


    Kids get harder to control as they grow up, Zhi Xia now understood that deeply.


    So as they bickered, she didn''t get involved, chatting up front with Wanqing about her daughter''s life and school over the past half year.


    As for the brothers, fights weremonce, let alone just some verbal sparring.


    Luckily once they finished they got back to business as usual, still able to keep arguing and scuffling.


    They had just arrived at the An''s when Wanqing jumped out of the car, dressed all in white like a little elf running inside, calling out "Granny, grandpa, I''m here!" before even seeing anyone.


    Zhi Xia helplessly shook her head. By the time she went in, Zhou Nan was already asking Wanqing this and that.


    "Where''s Mother-in-Law?" Not seeing the olddy, Zhi Xia asked.


    "She''s inside, just said she was tired and went to lie down," Zhou Nan casually replied.


    "Then I''ll go check on her." Zhi Xia went inside, opened the door a crack, and saw the olddy lying on her side in bed, a thin nket covering her.


    She closed the door again beforeing out.


    Wanqing had already been pulled into the living room by them, the house full ofughter and chatter.


    Everyone was there today except An ZhiXian, who hadn''t returned yet.


    Just as she was thinking that, he wheeled his bike in the door.


    Since he was back, Zhou Nan hurriedly had people start serving the prepared dishes.


    When Liu Ling came out, Zhi Xia called her sister-inw, but seeing she wasn''t enthusiastic, didn''t say anything more.


    Zhi Xia''s thinking was simple. Liu Ling could ignore her, but as long as she didn''t make a scene, Zhi Xia was willing to maintain a superficial civility.

 Chapter 432: 432 The Heart is a bottomless pit.

    <h4>Chapter 432</h4>


    Wanqing was highly regarded by the elders, and Zhou Nan wanted her to stay a few more days, but she politely declined.


    Zhou Nan wanted to persuade her, but An JingZhi spoke up, "Wanqing has just returned. You should let her spend some time with her mother and daughter. What''s the rush?"


    Zhou Nan nced at Zhi Xia and quickly said to Wanqing, "I didn''t consider it thoroughly. You should stay at home and apany your mother for a few days. Grandma will make delicious food for you when youe to her ceter."


    Wanqing nodded and said, "Okay, as long as Grandma doesn''t find me annoying by then."


    Everyone started discussing other topics, diverting the conversation from this one.


    Su Ying thought for a moment and said, "Grandma, Dad, Mom, since everyone is here today, I want to discuss something with you."


    "Go ahead." Seeing her serious expression, An JingZhi knew it must be something important.


    "Well, the Hn Yayuan residential area on Central Street has beenpleted. I''ve bought a house there, and we''re currently arranging for renovations. We should be able to move in shortly after the Chinese New Year. The house we''re currently living in belongs to Grandma, and I thought it would be best to inform you in advance."


    It wouldn''t look good if we only told them after the renovations were done and we were ready to move.


    "Aren''t you living there just fine? And it''s close to Zhi Xia, so you have someone to look after you. Why suddenly buy a house and n to move?" Zhou Nan wasn''t quite supportive. Although he knew Su Ying owned several properties herself, a married daughter should live with her inws; otherwise, it would seem like her son-inw was marrying into their family.


    "I also want to move. Hn Yayuan is owned by Sheng An Group. Our family has too many children now, and they''ve all grown up. It''s too crowded to live in the old house. The children don''t even have their own rooms. Moving there will provide more space, and Si-Sao heard that I wanted to move, so she also considered it. It just so happens that we''ll be neighbors when we move there. Plus, themunity is well-managed, with security guards ensuring safety." Zhi Xia exined.


    Su Ying thought that living in her own house would give her more legitimacy, so she wouldn''t have to feel like she was taking advantage of Grandma every time she came here.


    In fact, she had never really considered Grandma''s house as her own. If she really wanted to im that house as her own, she wouldn''t have chosen to move. After all, with her and the children living there, no one could kick her out.


    "So both of you want to move. That''s fine too. I''m not against you moving. As long as the living environment is safe, I don''t mind." Zhou Nan said.


    "Hn Yayuan..." An ZhiXian pondered, "Is that the upscale residential area you mentioned before?"


    "Yes, that''s the one." Because she had previously discussed the n to move the hospital from Ping''an Road to Central Street with An ZhiXian, with her providing the funds for the house and the hospital only needing to relocate, she said, "Third Brother, when the hospital moves, you''ll be working on Central Street. Shouldn''t you consider buying a ce there too? It will be convenient for you toe home."


    Although Zhi Xia seemed to be joking, she was actually sincerely advising him.


    At this moment, making a purchase would definitely be a profitable move. She was confident that in just two or three years, the housing prices here would double. Her initial investment of 500,000 yuan would turn into 1 million yuan. Considering his current sry of only two to three hundred yuan per month, even if his sry gradually increased in the future, it would still take him several decades to umte that amount without any expenses.


    Zhi Xia wasn''t worried about him not being able to afford the money. Although she hadn''t participated in the division of the family assets, judging from the value of the things left to her by her grandmother, her brothers wouldn''t have received a small portion of the inheritance.


    And even if it wasn''t enough, considering their close sibling rtionship, she could consider letting him owe her for now.


    Currently, I don''t know about abroad, but in China, there is no concept of a mortgage, so the sales ofmercial housing are difficult because wealthy people are still a minority.


    However, in the past two years, the number of people who can afford to buy a house has clearly increased.


    Lake Blue Elegant Garden is a ce that only wealthy people can afford, and it''s where she wants to live, so she specifically nned this area.


    "You''re quite shrewd with your ideas. You''ve taken over your third brother''s business," the olddy joked with a trembling voice. "But our family doesn''tck ces to live. Your sister-inw is moving out again. Third son, you should also consider your lifelong matters. When you get married, if you want to move out, you can move out. We won''t bother you at home."


    Hearing the olddy''s intentions, An ZhiXian immediately refused, "No, Grandma, please don''t worry about my matters. I''m busy all day long, and I don''t even have time toe home and have a meal. If I bring a wife back, won''t it make me ufortable?"


    "As soon as I mention it, this is how you react. You should go out and take a look. Besides those poor and unattractive men who can''t find a wife, which man doesn''t get married and start a family? It''s disgraceful!" The olddy had no other worries now, only this grandson who refused to get married, which made her really worried. She couldn''t even rest in peace and couldn''t close her eyes.


    An ZhiXian didn''t dare to argue with the olddy, after all, she was the matriarch of their family. But if he went along with it, he was certain that as soon as he loosened his stance today, he would be bombarded with a bunch of blind dates tomorrow.


    He could only shift his gaze to Zhi Xia and discuss the matter of the house with her again. They made a decision at the dining table and booked another unit for himself at the same price as Su Ying''s.


    Seeing him like this, the olddy sighed in distress.


    After finishing the meal, Zhi Xia helped the olddy back to her room and yfully asked, "Grandma, Third Brother wants to buy a house. You seem so worried. Are you afraid that I''ll make more money than him?"


    "You mischievous child, you''re talking nonsense again. I don''t interfere in the matters between you siblings. As long as he is willing, he can spend all his money on you. I don''t mind. I''m just worried about his marriage. I don''t know if I''ll be able to see him get married before I close my eyes." The shops under An ZhiXian''s name were always used by Zhi Xia, and she didn''t know whether the rent was being paid or not. She never inquired about it.


    Simrly, the shop under the name of the eldest son, Zhi Qing, had always been run by the daughter-inw of the Liu family''s youngest son. Although she knew about it, she never asked about it.


    Anyway, since the things have been divided among them, how they use them is their own business. Even if someone else takes them in the end, or if they squander them all, they can only me themselves for not being capable enough, not others.


    As elders, they can only do so much.


    Zhi Xiaforted the olddy for a few more words, and seeing that it was gettingte, Su Ying called her from outside, so she went out.


    An JingZhi, out of habit,y on the bed reading a book. Zhou Nan snatched the book from him andined, "All you do is read. Haven''t you noticed that something is not right in our family atmosphere?"


    "Children grow up and form their own families, just like trees branching out. The atmosphere is not right because you''ve been meddling too much. If you really want peace, then stop interfering in anything. We two can live separately with Mom, and I guarantee there won''t be any conflicts." An JingZhi had already mentioned this issue before. It was Zhou Nan''s constant worrying and fussing over everything that created the current situation.


    The human heart is an abyss, and when it encounters someone who is never satisfied, no matter how much you try to fill it, it will never be enough.


    An JingZhi was quite open-minded about this.


    He couldn''t persuade Zhou Nan, so he simply turned a blind eye. She was a person who exhausted herself with worries, so what could he say?


    In fact, he himself was someone who longed for freedom and felt restless amidst this tangle of contradictions.


    In this regard, An ZhiXian was very much like him.


    The difference was that An JingZhi was pressured into marriage by the old patriarch. After marriage, Zhou Nan was rtively easy to get along with, so they managed to live together for most of their lives.


    An ZhiXian, on the other hand, witnessed the conflicts between brothers-inw and sisters-inw, as well as the discrepancy between parents'' words and intentions. That''s why he was particrly firm in matters of marriage. No matter what anyone said, it wouldn''t work.


    He believed that being alone was more freeing, without having to bear any responsibilities. Even if he ended up old and lonely, at least he had been free and unburdened in his youth, and he wouldn''t think about being old.


    Moreover, he had a bunch of nephews and nieces, and Zhi Xia alone had given birth to six children. Although they weren''t his own, they were still close rtives by blood. It wouldn''te to the point where there would be no one to take care of his funeral, right?


    "As soon as I mention it, you just go on like this, splitting up the family..."


    Originally, they were reluctant to live separately because they were worried about Liu Ling raising the child alone, and also because the third son hadn''t gotten married yet. They couldn''t just kick him out and leave the house empty, or he wouldn''t even have a warm meal toe back to.


    But now, Wen Qing, the eldest, was already eighteen or neen years old and had grown into a young man. Moreover, he hadn''t gone away like Chen Ye, so safety wasn''t much of a concern anymore.


    As for the third son, judging by his tone today, he had directly made arrangements with Zhi Xia to rent a house for 500,000 yuan, without even blinking. I guess once the renovation is done, he won''te back to live.


    This kid had always been cold-hearted, and no one could control him after the second son left. If you said too much to him, he would get annoyed and simply wouldn''te home. It could drive a person crazy.


    "Lao San rarelyes home, and Lao Er and his wife haven''t returned in two years. The only ones living with us now are Liu Ling and her brother Wen Qing. How can we divide this family? Liu Ling has never had the thought of moving out. As long as we live together, we can''t just ignore them, right?" Therefore, as long as we still eat together and such, it is destined that we cannot separate.


    An JingZhi saw that Liu Ling truly had the intention of splitting the family this time, so he seized the opportunity and said, "Let''s divide these two houses. You and I will move with Mom to the other side. Theyouts of both houses are simr. This house will belong to Lao Da and Lao Er. Whoever is willing to take it canpensate the other based on the market price. If neither of them wants it, we can sell the house and divide the money among them. As for their future residence, they can arrange it themselves. The house on the other side will belong to Lao San and Lao Si. Lao San doesn''t have a wife, so he can manage it himself, and Lao Si''s wife is not someone who fusses about trivial matters. They won''t have any objections to us living there."


    In reality, the houses here can''tpare to the newly constructed buildings over at Zhi Xia''s ce. They aren''t worth much, just around six or seven thousand yuan. After all, they are old houses, and the annual maintenance alone requires a lot of effort.


    When dividing the family property for their sons, no one knows how much money An JingZhi has better than him. There is no shortage of gold alone, not to mention the antique jade and other things.


    Lao San could easilye up with 500,000 yuan without even blinking. The other three sons also have sufficient money. An JingZhi estimated that Lao Da hadn''t told Liu Ling the specific amount, otherwise, she wouldn''t be so concerned about a small sum.


    Lao Da is simr in this aspect. Zhou Nan only discovered after the liberalization that their family had quite a bit of property. Before that, he only thought their situation was slightly better than others.


    But Zhou Nan and Liu Ling are different; at least they can distinguish who is closer.


    In her whole life, she has always been devoted to her son and has helped the Zhou family, but within his tolerance. And every time, she would seek his opinion. He isn''t so stingy about small amounts of money, like three or five yuan.


    Liu Ling trusts the Liu family more than the An family, which is something that An JingZhi is somewhat dissatisfied with.


    The Liu family is a good family and they treat Liu Ling, their married daughter, with care. But they still have two sons in their family, and the hairpins worn by Liu Ling''s two sisters-inw are their own things, and An JingZhi knows them.


    Although the things are given to their sons, how they handle it is their own business, but no one likes to overly subsidize their daughter-inw''s family.


    Moreover, the things that were preserved during the chaotic times, even if they are just some essories from a daughter''s family, each one is a valuable item.


    Gold in chaotic times, antiques in prosperous times.


    The current value of these things is not to be mentioned for now, but they have great collection value, which will only increase over time.


    Fortunately, Lao Da still has some foresight, and most of the things are still stored in the cer of the old house over there. There aren''t many things given to Liu Ling in total, so An JingZhi doesn''t mind.


    Zhou Nan pondered for a while, still worried. "So, how do we broach this matter with Liu Ling?"


    Despite having served her for so many years, it''s possible that even a single word could be misunderstood, jeopardizing all the credit earned over the years and inviting resentment instead.


    Zhou Nan was inherently weak-willed, always inclined to endure whatever came his way. This tendency to internalize his struggles often backfired, allowing others to take advantage of him.


    "Tell the patriarch that each family should handle their own affairs. After supporting them for all these years, it''s unreasonable for them to still make mistakes." Inparison, An JingZhi was someone who stuck to his decisions. He wouldn''t meddle in his son''s approach to resolving the situation.


    Thankfully, the patriarch was seldom home. It wouldn''t be appropriate to say anything once he assumed the role of the family''s elder.


    Otherwise, someone like Liu Ling would have been driven away long ago.


    Reflecting on the past, Liu Ling would never have dared to cause so much trouble. It was all because she had been indulged in recent years.


    Taking advantage of her child growing up, she became increasingly audacious.


    The scene earlier today left An JingZhi feeling uneasy. While he and Zhou Nan were present, his daughter-inw had the audacity to show a cold face to her sister-inw. When his fourth son''s wife arrived, she barely uttered a word. Who gave her such audacity?


    Even if Zhi Xia had grown close to his fourth son''s wife, it was entirely their own choice, indicating that she was a good person.


    She, on the other hand, walked around with a sour face all day. Did she expect everyone to fawn over her?


    That would only happen in her dreams.


    "Well then, you go and talk to her. I''m done with this matter. I''ve served others just like serving an old mother for all these years. I''ve had enough of it. I hope for nothing more than to live my own life, just like anyone else."


    That''s why you shouldn''t push people too far. No one is foolish; just because they don''t speak up doesn''t mean they can''t see. When emotional bonds are consumed to a certain extent, there won''t be any left.

 Chapter 433: 433 House Buying

    <h4>Chapter 433</h4>


    All the way back home, ZhiXia asked Wanqing, "Have you told your dad you''re back yet?"


    "Not yet, I was afraid he would insist on picking me up, so I thought I''d tell him after I got back." Wanqing felt she was no longer a child, and she was very vignt. There was no problem with her taking the bus alone, but her mother still insisted that her younger brother, who was even younger than her, go pick her up. It always made her feel like she hadn''t grown up.


    In fact, ZhiXia also had her own concerns. It wasn''t that she didn''t worry about her son or that she was too controlling of her daughter, it was just that boys and girls were inherently different.


    Nowadays, teenage boys rarely get abducted anymore, but girls this age are in high demand, and all kinds of abduction methods keep emerging, making it impossible to prevent, especially in chaotic ces like train stations.


    "Give your dad a call, you still have to let him know when you get back." ZhiXia said.


    "OK, I''ll do it now." Wanqing also missed Pei Jing very much. With this call, if nothing unexpected happened, she would probably see him tomorrow.


    That night, mother and daughtery in one bed.


    Wanqing suddenly asked ZhiXia, "Mom, did you and auntie argue?"


    ZhiXia was taken aback, then immediately realized that the child must have noticed auntie''s cold face. "We didn''t argue, but our rtionship has not been as good recently. Whatever happens between us adults, you young ones should act the same as before. Don''t take this matter too close to heart, understand?"


    Wen Qing used toe over and stay frequently, and the two children also often went to their home. After Chenye went to Beijing, he came less often, and ZhiXia didn''t want the rtionship between the children to be affected because of the adults.


    "I understand." Wanqing said.


    In fact, when grandma wanted her to stay for a couple days today, she also wanted to agree. But when she turned her head, she saw auntie with a cold look on her face, and she felt something was wrong, so she decided to decline.


    When she was little, she often stayed at grandma''s house and never felt ufortable. But growing up, she realized that after all, it wasn''t her own home.


    If it was just grandma and grandpa, she would be very willing to apany them, but people be more cautious as they grow up. She began to worry that auntie might not like her anymore.


    An ZhiXian arrived very quickly the next day, carrying a box.


    When the box was opened, it contained rows of neatly arranged gold bars. "As you know, I don''t have a high sry. I could only use the family assets. These gold bars were taken ording to the bank''s exchange rate, just enough to be worth 500,000. If it''s inconvenient for you, I can exchange them at the bank and give you cash."


    An ZhiXian felt that ZhiXia must have spare money on hand, and keeping gold bars would be better than cash, with a higher appreciation rate, so he reluctantly exchanged them at the bank and brought them directly.


    ZhiXia was very surprised. "Brother, buying a house is not like buying vegetables. You haven''t even seen the house yet. There''s no rush to give the money until the formalities arepleted."


    "But I''ll have to give it sooner orter." An ZhiXianughed, "You know me, I''m busy every day without a moment''s leisure. Just contact me when the formalities are done. I know where it is anyway. I''ll go see the house when I have time. As for the renovation, discuss with brother four how you want it done, and help me take care of it simply. I just need the house decorated nicely and simply, nothing tooplicated..."


    An ZhiXian rattled on and on. The point was that he didn''t want to be bothered. He had no time.


    ZhiXia thought for a moment and said, "Hu Zhou under Hu Zhou has renovation teams. I''ll send you design drawingster for you to choose the decor style."


    "OK. I have to get to work now, so I''ll get going first." After saying that, An ZhiXian left very decisively, leaving just that small box of gold bars on the table.


    ZhiXia put away the gold bars and called Jiang Tao, asking him to instruct his men toplete the house ownership transfer formalities as soon as possible.


    In the afternoon, An Zhiren called again, asking her to keep a house for him too, with An ZhiXian paying first.


    Only then did ZhiXia realize, "Brother, did you guys discuss this? Are you trying to help my sales in case I can''t sell the houses?"


    She could understand brother three wanting to buy a house, but brother two had been away for years. She heard he had just been promoted to mayor this year. He might not be able toe back for who knows how long, so he had no need to purchase property in Jingcheng at all.


    Of course, investment was another matter, but ZhiXia figured he wouldn''t do that given his profession.


    "You got that wrong. I''m only away temporarily, not gone for good. I just want to buy a house here first to have a ce to live when Ie back. It''ll also be convenient for us siblings to visit each other if we live close by." After saying this, An Zhiren asked her, "Right, have you mentioned this to big brother? Tell him to buy a unit too. The old family houses are all run down and ufortable to live in. He''s not short on money, why suffer the hardship!"


    "I didn''t say anything." How could she bring this up? The houses were from her group. If she mentioned this, they were already unhappy with each other. Her sister-inw might even think she was drumming up business for herself and trying to take advantage of them.


    "What''s the matter?" As a mayor, An Zhiren immediately picked up on her tone.


    "It''s nothing. Anyway, if you guys want it, I''ll keep them for you. If you don''t want it, I can''t force you. But let me make it clear first - I didn''t encourage you to buy the houses." The remaining unsold houses haven''t been listed yet. When the final sales pricese out, they''ll know they absolutely didn''t lose out.


    The siblings talked a bit more before ZhiXia hung up.


    But it wasn''t peaceful on An Zhiren''s side.


    Zheng Suchun had just returned from outside when she saw him sitting there lost in thought, clearly with something on his mind.


    "What''s the matter?"


    So An Zhiren asked her, "Have you been in touch with my younger sister recently? It feels like she and big brother are estranged, no?"


    An Zhiren told her about buying the house. Zheng Suchun immediately understood the crux of the matter. "It''s not that little sister has a conflict with big brother. I think it''s your wonderful sister-inw. I could tell a few years ago when I went back. She treated others like they owed her money, when it was clearly her that father and mother helped the most. You don''t know, when sister-inw four spoke to her, she was so arrogant..."


    Zheng Suchun had always been very sensible, aside from being too clingy with An Zhiren. She didn''t make a fuss over other matters.


    Of course, it was understandable. Having such an outstanding man, it''s normal to be anxious.


    She knew An Zhiren valued family bonds greatly and never spoke ill of his family in front of him.


    But this time he asked about it himself, so she couldn''t be med for gossiping a little.


    An Zhiren knew very little about his sister-inw''s affairs. They lived together for a few years when he was home, but he didn''t notice she was so...petty back then.


    Having been away from home these years, he rarely paid attention to family matters and waspletely ignorant about these trivial details.


    An Zhiren thought for a long time and felt big brother had to know about this.


    There had never been any problems in their brotherly affection before. Now they were all buying houses together, but big brother didn''t even know. It looked as if they were isting big brother.


    Of course, after he said something, if big brother decided not to buy, that was fine too.


    After all, everyone had their own considerations. Buying property was for enjoyment in the first ce.


    An Zhiren called An Zhiqing and learned An Jingzhi had already called him, and he had also decided to go back for a visit.

 Chapter 434: 434 Close and Distant

    <h4>Chapter 434</h4>


    As Wanqing had imagined, when Pei Jing found out that his beloved daughter had returned home, he hurried back the very next day.


    Su Ying was eager to move into her new home, so she urged Zhi Xia to hurry up with the renovations.


    Although they didn''t need to do any of the work themselves, they still had to decide ahead of time on how everything should be designed and decorated, and would have to drop by every now and then to supervise, for fear that something might go wrong.


    An ZhiXian, on the other hand, was quite free and easy about it all. After settling on a decor style, he simply handed the house over to Zhi Xia while only asionally stopping by himself to check on the progress of the construction work.


    The original n was to renovate all three houses at the same time, which was already very busy work. But then An Zhiren asked them to do his ce up too so that it would be all ready for him to move into when he returned.


    So the twodies ended up bing armchair supervisors while poor Zhi Xia raced around like crazy, wishing that she could magically split herself into several people at once to get everything done.


    After staying home for five days, Pei Jing left again. The day after he departed, An Zhiqing arrived back home.


    That very evening, An ZhiXian and Su Ying were both summoned over to the An family residence, but notably, Zhi Xia was not called.


    She found this rather odd at the time. Under normal circumstances, when there were no conflicts, it would be strange for a family gathering to exclude her specifically.


    Unless, that is, the An family had some private affairs that she didn''t need to be involved in.


    And indeed,ter that night at half past eleven, Su Ying came knocking on their already closed front gate.


    As soon as Zhi Xia opened the door, she heard Su Ying hastily say, "Zhi Xia, something big has happened in our family. My parents said they want to split up the family property. I guess big brother came back this time because of this whole thing..."


    "But didn''t they already divide things up a few years ago?" When grandfather was still alive a couple years back, the family assets and property had already been allocated. If anything was left undivided, it would have just been these two houses, which were co-owned family assets.


    What Su Ying wanted to talk about was exactly this��the two family houses were also going to be split up now. One had been given to big brother and second brother, while the one she was currently living in would be jointly owned by her and third brother.


    Furthermore, when they were leaving, third brother An ZhiXian said that his parents and grandparents wanted to live in this house. So he was thinking of buying out Su Ying''s half of the property with his own money, after which the house would fully belong to him.


    Naturally, Su Ying had no reason to disagree. Not only was An ZhiXian willing to buy out her family''s share, but even if he didn''t, when her inws said they wanted to live here, she definitely wouldn''t object anyway.


    Su Ying was simply excited for the news and eager to share it with Zhi Xia immediately.


    After all, even though she hadn''t voiced it aloud, as both daughter-inws, she was also unhappy with Liu Ling''s long-term freeloading.


    She and Zheng Suchun felt the same way��they believed Liu Ling had taken advantage of too many benefits, yet in the end still managed to push the me onto others, which was quite unfair.


    This splitting up of family property could also be considered a good thing. No matter who the house on the other side eventually went to, at least her inws would no longer show favouritism to Liu Ling anymore. Everyone would receive equal treatment, so Liu Ling shouldn''t have anything toin about losing out on, right?


    Frankly put, some people were simply too greedy, always wanting to take all the benefits for themselves without considering if others agreed or not.


    For the most part, Zhi Xia just listened as Su Ying chattered away. This was actually the first time she had seen her be so long-winded. It truly revealed how much simmering displeasure Su Ying held toward Liu Ling.


    At the An family residence, Liu Ling asked An Zhiqing, "Why have youe back at this time? I was thinking of going over in a couple days when the kids are on summer vacation. That way I could take advantage of the time off. But with you suddenly returning now, haven''t you wasted our precious vacation time?"


    Every year when school was out, Liu Ling would go over, and An Zhiqing would schedule his leave to ovep with this period. That allowed them to maximize their time together as a family.


    Rather than answering her question, An Zhiqing asked back, "What do you think about mom and dad''s decision? Should we keep this house for our family, or give it to second brother instead?"


    "Second brother isn''t even in Jincheng. What use would he have for a house here? Besides, with you away, the kids and I still need a ce of our own to live." Liu Ling didn''t really want the family assets split up. But An Jingzhi had stated his stance very clearly. Now that their children were grown, they no longer needed someone to look after them like before. So Liu Ling couldn''t refute his logic for dividing the family property either. She had wanted to coax her mother-inw into letting her stay, but this time, An Jingzhi hadn''t said a single conciliatory word to her. He had dominated the entire discussion with his sons instead.


    An Jingzhi never consulted his daughters-inw when making family decisions. He would talk directly to his sons and didn''t give the daughters-inw any chance to interrupt.


    Only when it came to fourth brother not being present did he ask Su Ying if she had any objections after settling the arrangements. Naturally, Su Ying said she didn''t.


    "If that''s the case, then let''s take the house. I''ll tell second brother that we''re willing to buy out his share," said An Zhiqing.


    Hesitantly, Liu Ling nodded before asking him, "Then how much money do you think is reasonable for us to offer?"


    "I''ll go out tomorrow to check real estate prices around here, then decide," replied An Zhiqing. "Right, how much money does our family currently have saved up?"


    Ever since their marriage, other than keeping enough daily living expenses for himself every month, he would directly send the rest of his military stipend payments over to Liu Ling for safekeeping. The management of their family finances had always been in Liu Ling''s hands too.


    Upon hearing his question now, Liu Ling took out the bank passbook. "Added all together, there''s about over 10 thousand Yuan. In the year beforest, my second brother opened up a shop and borrowed 600 Yuan from me that hasn''t been paid back yet."


    Liu Ling had deposited all of An Zhiqing''s stipend money. She also had her own ie and had enough to cover daily expenses for herself and the children.


    An Zhiqing told her to put the passbook away for now, since they wouldn''t need to use that money yet.


    As they were sleeping that night, Liu Ling weighed again and again in hesitation before finally speaking up, "Even if the house here now belongs to our family, is it really necessary for mom and grandma to move out immediately? The other side went to third and fourth brother, but you''re still the eldest son. Shouldn''t mom and dad live with us ording to proper order and seniority customs? Otherwise, other people might say our family is unfilial."


    Currently, her mother-inw handled all the housework and cooking at home. Whenever Liu Ling got off work and returned, there would be a meal ready for her. Aside from the question of three meals a day, just keeping the huge residence clean and maintained would be a troublesome task without Zhou Nan''s grandmother around.


    "It''s not like the olden days anymore where custom dictated that parents had to live with their eldest son for sure. And third brother is currently renovating his house at Lakeview Gardens into a detached property that mom and dad will have all to themselves. That''s not so much them living with anyone, right?" said An Zhiqing.


    Upon mention of Lakeview Gardens, Liu Ling finally asked the question she had been wondering about for a long time, "With ZhiXian only making 200-300 Yuan a month right now at the hospital, where is he suddenly getting 500 thousand Yuan to ssh out? During the ancestral division of assets, didn''t our family receive quite arge sum of money as well?"


    She wanted to make clear just how much money the family precisely had��not that she intended to spend it recklessly.


    But even a 5 million Yuan house was unbelievable to her. She truly couldn''t understand how such an absurdly high price hade out.


    The family''s current house wasn''t too shabby of a ce. Although it hadn''t been renovated into an apartmentplex, thend and plot size were already quite spacious, with both front and back yards. In Liu Ling''s opinion, at most the property would probably only be valued at 70-80 thousand. Only those who were too rich and had nothing better to spend money on would take out 500 thousand to buy a house, in her view.


    Simrly, even though themodity housing Zhi Xia sold publicly two years ago was perfectly fine and not exorbitantly priced, for some reason she still insisted on creating some luxury high-ss district that, as Liu Ling spected, probably had unsold units now. And her own brother-inw had ended up buying into her sales target.


    Su Ying was so close and intimate with Zhi Xia too. It wouldn''t be surprising if the pair had privately gained some unfair advantages out of the situation. On top of that, with third brother having no wife yet and clearly favoring his little sister as well, even second brother and sister-inw who weren''t in Jincheng had decided they wanted to buy a house there. This was what truly astonished Liu Ling the most.


    "If that''s how you see it, then we just won''t buy any new ce. I only suggested it because I was afraid you''d feel inferior seeing everyone else move into nice houses while we remain living in an old home. But since you disagree, it works out for the better that we save the money," An Zhiqing sighed.


    Only after hearing him say this did Liu Ling finally breathe out in relief. She continued with her probing, "Does our family really have 5 million or even more? Where have you hid it all away? We''ve been married for so many years now, and Wenqing is nearly old enough to get his own wife. Yet you''re still guarding secrets from me like preventing against a thief! I never sensed you were this kind of person before��how did I not realize it earlier back when we first got married?"


    Recalling how she had happily felt back then that she had married well when handing the money over to the new groom for safekeeping, Liu Ling nowmented at how wrongly she had judged.


    Feelings at that time were given to oneself money, it was simply something that other person had looked down upon from the very beginning.


    For this kind of probing words, Liu Ling had already tried to probe countless times, An Zhiqing''s answer had always been the same every time.


    There was some family property, it was given by the elders, not earned by themselves, and the money they earned was enough to spend, so there was no need to use those things. The things that grandfather had left behind with great pains should be well preserved and passed down to future generations even more.


    Regarding not telling Liu Ling the specifics, An Zhiqing didn''t feel there was any problem either.


    Her mom had worked hard for this family for most of her life, and still didn��t know the specifics of the An family��s assets, only the things that grandma had given her belonged to her, it was still seeing her hard work for most of her life.


    Liu Ling was not someone who could keep things safe, An Zhiqing had to admit that her maternal uncle and aunt were both good people, but no matter how good one was, not everything could be shared.


    She felt close and shared her things casually, including the little snacks her sister-inw had made for Wen Qing��s siblings before.


    An Zhiqing had benefited, so she knew how extraordinary those things were, and she also understood why Zhi Xia waster unwilling to give them to her.


    It was only natural for the aunt to cherish her nephew, but at the very least she should be able to distinguish what should be given and what should not be given.


    She could give her own things to them, even if she bought them with money to give to them, but the An family��s things could not be gifted casually. The things her sister-inw made were for her own maternal nephews, not for outsiders to enjoy.


    Regarding those two hairpins, An Zhiqing had already told Liu Ling, but it was not right to ask for things back once they had been given away.


    Moreover, she had stubbornly said at that time, "It''s just two hairpins. He is my cousin who was so nice to me before. I have quite a few of them. These things are not valuable now. What''s wrong with giving them two?"


    Fortunately, she didn''t give them anything else afterwards, so An Zhiqing had nothing to say.


    It was he who gave those things to her, at first it was to coax her to be happy. She didn''t even feel heartache when she gave them away, if he said more it would only make him look petty.


    It was just that there were only those few pieces of jewelry that he could give her. An Zhiqing was still not generous enough to share family property. Even real brothers could not do that.


    On the day they divided the family property, the four of them agreed that money matters should be separated, so as not to affect the feelings between the brothers, let alone the second uncle.


    Liu Ling thought that they could at least wait until Su Ying moved out before they could move in. Unexpectedly, they started packing up the next day, saying they wanted to move over there first to get familiar with the environment, and to give everyone some time to adapt.


    After discussing with An Zhiren, An Zhiqing asked Liu Ling for 4,000 yuan when she came back. This house nowpletely belonged to them.


    Zhi Xia was supervising the construction at Lake Blue Elegant Residence. The whole scene was messy, with dust flying everywhere. Wanqing quickly put on her mask.


    Zhi Xiaughed at her, "I told you not toe but you insisted. Now you can''t stand it, can you?"


    She had toe because the flooring, wires and water pipes used for the renovation were all from her dimensional space. The wires also had to beid in the walls ording to her requirements. The renovation workers nowadays still didn��t quite understand, so she had to supervise the construction every day.


    In case something went wrong, it would take more effort to fix it after people had moved in.


    "It''s just too dusty, my nose is ticklish." Wanqingined, "Mom, you stay here to keep an eye on things, I''m going somewhere else."


    Apart from the messy renovation, the environment outside was still very good. Thendscaping and facilities were very well done. There was even a small park near the shaded area, with slides and the like, something Wanqing had only seen abroad before, quite rare in China.


    She had to say, her mom did have business acumen. After a trip abroad, she copied everything foreigners had for children to y with.


    No, it should be said to be even better, whether it was facilities or ideas.


    An Zhiqing met Wanqing outside and followed her directions to find Zhi Xia.


    "Eldest brother, why did youe? I was just saying that after I finish up here, I will go see you. We were working on the electricity at noon. I have to keep an eye on things here, I really can��t get away," Zhi Xia exined.


    "Let''s not beat around the bush, you see me as me seeing you right?" An Zhiqing had indeed found his way here from her house. He praised, "This house looks good. It''s tightly enclosed outside, burrs can''t get in either. It''s good that you thought of it. How about it? Do you have any vacancies?"


    Zhi Xia''s eyes flickered slightly, "Why is eldest brother asking about this?"


    It shouldn��t be what she was thinking, right? Her sister-inw probably wouldn��t agree either.


    Although there was no obvious fallout on the surface, she had been feeling indifferent from them these two years. Zhi Xia was not unaware.


    "What do you mean why? You guys talked it over to live together. Don''t tell me you want to exclude your big brother me?" An Zhiqing deliberately asked her with a smile.


    "No way. I was originally only thinking of moving out myself. As you know, Chenye and the others are all grown up now, and it��s too crowded at home. Then sister-inw four said she wanted to as well. Later, third brother also told second brother..."


    "Alright, alright, I was just joking with you. Eldest brother knows you. But just now when I was outside looking around, this ce is indeed good. Anyway, you want to sell them. Why not sell me a property too? When we siblings get old in the future, we cane back and live together again for convenience to visit each other. " An Zhiqing said.


    "That''s what sister-inw four said too." Zhi Xia figured it out instantly. This house was probably bought secretly without telling her sister-inw.


    She reckoned that given the current rtionship between them, who knows what her sister-inw might be thinking, maybe she thought she was trying to cheat them out of money.


    When the houses start selling after a while, they will know. The price she charged them was definitely the lowest. These houses sold to others would be at least 100,000 to 200,000 more per property.


    After all, the costs were all factored in here. Thendscaping here was different from other ces. The trees and flowers all had the effect of refreshing spirit. Just breathing a few breaths of fresh air after entering themunity, one would feel carefree and happy. Living here long-term would also be good for health.


    Of course, all these things were thanks to the internar trading device. Ordinary rich people would not be able to buy them even if they had money.


    After An Zhiqing decided on the house, he handed over the interior design to Zhi Xia. After all, Liu Ling didn''t know. He could stay at home for half a month at most before leaving.


    She probably wouldn''t have to do anything for half a year. Just the renovation alone would take up all her time.


    Fortunately, only she needed to put in a bit more effort. Once the master workers over there had finished, they would also know how to do it, so she wouldn''t need to supervise so closely anymore.

 Chapter 435: 435 is Just pretending to be stupid.

    <h4>Chapter 435</h4>


    "Zhi Xia, in a couple days,e over to my house for a meal, okay?" An Zhiqing invited. "These past few days, my parents have been busy moving, and the house is a bit messy. In a couple days, when it''s tidied up, you all cane over, Wen Qing and Su Ying too. We siblings should get together and have a nice time."


    Father''s inexplicable suggestion to split up the family also made him realize that in the years he hadn''t been home, things at home were likely not as harmonious as he had imagined.


    An Zhiqing cared a lot about family bonds, and didn''t want them to grow apart over some unnecessary things.


    Even the best rtionships need maintenance. Just happening to be at home this time, he wanted to take the opportunity to invite everyone over for a meal and strengthen their ties.


    He understood Liu Ling''s issues to some extent, but since he hadn''t been home for years, he didn''t have the qualifications to interfere from Liu Ling''s perspective.


    Fortunately Liu Ling didn''t have an obstinate personality, and could still listen to him a little. He didn''t expect her to be extra nice to his family, just hoped she could maintain a surface cordiality. He would get close with his own family.


    Zhi Xia thought for a bit without directly refusing, only saying: "Let''s not go to your house. Think about it, every time youe back we''re the ones going over. You still haven''t eaten more than a few meals at my ce. Why don''t youe to my ce instead? Wen Qing lovesmb, and I have a grill. I''ll have Sister Zhang prepare in a couple days, and invite you all over to my ce for grilled meat."


    She had her own concerns saying this. If they all went over, with the whole family it would be a lot of people.


    Now that Zhou Nan was living at Su Ying''s side, Liu Ling had been ignoring them these days. If she had to cook for so many people herself, she might get even angrier.


    Getting together should be for fun. Forcing it would just make everyone unhappy, so they might as well gather at her home.


    No matter how Liu Ling thought, not eating from their kitchen, also not having to see her face, this was Zhi Xia''s idea.


    "That''s fine too. I was originally thinking of having youe eat at my ce, but this way I''m making you spend money instead." An Zhiqingughed and said.


    "There will be plenty of chances to eat at your ce in the future. Just don''t find us annoying when the timees." Zhi Xia joked.


    An Zhiqing didn''t rush to leave either, instead staying to help with work for a day. Zhi Xia hadn''t intended for him to lift a finger, but ended up being lectured by him. He said he still needed her supervision for his own house, so she shouldn''t stand on ceremony even more.


    Actually, Zhi Xia wasn''t standing on ceremony at all. She just cherished her brother.


    She hadn''t personally experienced how tiring and difficult the military training was, but having been at the base for several years, she understood some. Finally getting time off toe back, he should properly rest, and not be bothered by trivial matters.


    After returning home, Zhi Xia hurried to take a shower.


    After swirling a cotton swab in her nose, it came out full of ck dust, and that was with her wearing a mask, only asionally taking it off.


    She didn''t know how much dust she''d be inhaling by the time the house renovations were done.


    After tidying herself up, she went next door to take a look around.


    They were busy moving, so it was also a mess, things piled up in the living room. Zhou Nan busily moved things around.


    Su Ying came out from inside, smiling and asking her, "Zhi Xia, have you eaten?"


    "Eaten already, just came by to see how things are here." Just happening to have them both here, Zhi Xia brought up having theme over to eat in a couple days after they''d tidied up.


    Since the two houses were close, they could settle on a specific timeter without it being toote.


    But she still needed to borrow Mrs. Zhou to help. Grilling itself wasbor intensive, and with her run off her feet, relying on just Sister Zhang would be too tiring. The kids could help, but they were willing to grill the meat, just unwilling to do the preparatory work beforehand.


    Mrs. Zhou naturally had no objections. Zhi Xia was always very generous, not only satisfying her appetite going to help, but also giving her a gift when leaving.


    It didn''t take Zhou Nan long to tidy up here. The olddy had lived here for decades, and still felt more used to being here. She had just moved back and was already gone, out looking for her olddy friends.


    Zhi Xia wheeled back a whole ughteredmb in a small cart, as well as a processed small pig, arge piece of beef, and several ducks and chickens.


    Wanqing had been looking forward to roast suckling pig these days. They had done it several times in their space, but it was still the first time outdoors. Arge pit had already been dug in the backyard with an iron frame over it, and they didn''t know if they could roast it cooked through.


    In any case, they were letting them try it themselves, purely for fun.


    Wen Qing came early with his sister. Taking the lead with the triplets and Little Six, they crowded around the small pig, while Wan Qing handled the seasonings on the side directing their work.


    Mrs. Zhou and Sister Zhang also started handling themb and other ingredients, all cut into small pieces and skewered, ready to start grilling once everyone arrived in the afternoon.


    Today, Zhi Xia had only gone to Hn Elegant Garden at noon. The electrical wiring and water pipes had just been pulled yesterday, which was no small project for a four-story building. Next was installing the ceiling and cabs.


    It just so happened her father''s elder and second elder brothers knew carpentry, and her two older cousins had also followed them in it before. Now working assembly lines at factories was wasting their talents, so Zhi Xia simply had them form their own carpentry team, specifically following the renovation team to do woodwork, which though fairly tiring, earned them a lot more than at the factory.


    As real estate developed, demand for renovations would also grow. Once they were skilled at it themselves, they could also strike out on their own, certainly better than unchanging factory work.


    She had wanted them to rest for a day ande eat together today, but her father''s elder and second elder brothers were too diligent, refusing toe no matter what she said.


    They had also boiled old duck soup in the kitchen. Zhi Xia had Wen Qing bring some grilled meat over to deliver to her father''s elder brothers.


    Just as Wen Qing was pushing a bike with a box tied on the back out the door, they ran into An Zhiqing bringing Liu Ling in from outside.


    "They''ve started grilling in there, right? Where are you going?" Liu Ling had already smelled the rich meat fragrance wafting from inside upon reaching the door.


    "Auntie asked me to bring some over for Grandpa and them. Mom and Dad, go on in. I''ll be right back." He had been stimted by the fragrance to the point of salivating, eager to hurry there and back again.


    "This child, impatient as always." Liu Lingined, before heading inside.


    Zhi Xia warmly weed them. Liu Ling just nodded, heading over to help turn the skewers without a word.


    An Zhiqing knew the kids were roasting a suckling pig in the backyard, and with a smile said he would go take a look, though the smile vanished in an instant when he turned his head, reced by some impatience in his eyes.

 Chapter 436: 436 Too many good days, done

    <h4>Chapter 436</h4>


    Su Ying came over and pulled Liu Ling to the side, "I''ve never really understood how you think. It seems like you are especially tolerant of Sister-inw, would you be like this with me?"


    She had known Liu Ling for more than just one or two days, yet she still felt that she didn''t understand her.


    Other than Sister-inw, there was also Wen Qing. If they were talking about affection, the rtionship between these siblings should be the closest. But if they were talking about tolerance, Liu Ling was absolutely the strongest toward Liuling.


    "What nonsense are you saying? Have I not been good to you?"


    "It''s not that you haven''t been good to me, it just feels differentpared to Sister-inw."


    "That''s just you thinking too much. Sister-inw still feels that I''m too close with you." Liu Ling said with a smile.


    Some things would forever remain a secret in her heart.


    With her current mindset, having experienced so much, other than life and death, there really wasn''t anything too important.


    She had personally witnessed the breakdowns of Wen Qing and Liuling, which was why she was always exceptionally different toward them.


    Wen Qing and Chenye were very close. They often came to stay at her house when they were young, so she also watched them grow up. As for Liuling...


    No matter what she thought in her heart, even if they couldn''t be intimate, she should still maintain an attitude of not falling outpletely.


    Wen Qing soon came back from outside. The smell of food attracted the children to run around the front door. Liu Ling let Little Six bring out arge handful of roasted meat skewers to give to them. She then told him to close the door when he came back.


    Wanqing was taking pictures with her camera. Liu Ling impatiently asked her, "Why are you taking pictures of the food instead of people?"


    "I''m going to show them to Zhang Rou and Qin Yue when school starts. Mom, you don''t know that the food at foreign restaurants is socking. And it''s hard to get used to eating it. Luckily you bought me a house so I can cook. Sometimes the three of us go there together to eat andin. I want to take as many pictures of delicious food as I can on this trip home to show my ssmates abroadter. That way they can see how abundant the food is in our country."


    Zhang Rou and Qin Yue were two of Wanqing��s good friends at school. Both of their grades were very good.


    Although the study abroad spots at Jincheng University were cancelled, Liu Ling talked to those two separately afterwards and still helped arrange for them to go abroad ording to the original requirements.


    When everyone else was isting Wanqing, these two were still able to firmly stand by Wanqing''s side. This was enough to prove that these two children had good character, and also got along well with Wanqing.


    Cancelling the study abroad spots was to punish those arrogant children. Good people shouldn''t be implicated.


    However, these two only came from average families. Liu Ling heard that they were working abroad over the summer to pay their way, so they didn''t choose toe back like Wanqing did.


    This girl hadn''t even wanted toe back originally. It was Liu Ling who had firmly demanded it.


    An Zhiqing brought two bottles of wine when he came. The Liu family had also prepared several bottles of beer, and the children had soft drinks.


    The livelier it was with more people, the more theughter echoed in the yard as the children yed together.


    An ZhiXian arrived thetest because the hospital suddenly had an emergency patient, which dyed him until now. The others were already halfway through eating by the time he leisurely strolled over.


    Liu Ling let Sister Zhang and Mrs. Zhou go back first. Other than giving each of them a portion of the roasted skewers, she also let them divide up the strippedmb chops and bones to take back.


    As for the rest of this mess, it wasn''t toote to clean up tomorrow.


    Plus the children were still excited. Who knew howte they would stay up tonight.


    As it turned out, Liu Ling''s worries were not excessive.


    Other than Grandma who was too old to stay upte, everyone else didn''t disperse until after 11pm. Especially the children, each more energetic than thest, still seeming reluctant to leave.


    Wen Qing walked in front with her sister, while An Zhiqing and Liulinggged far behind them.


    "Liuling, I don''t know what you''re thinking, but I''ll tell you what I''m thinking today." He had carefully considered it before deciding to speak. "Ever since we got married, we''ve been living apart. You wouldn''te with the army, and I couldn''t leave the troops that I loved. Over these years, I haven''t fulfilled my responsibilities as a husband and father, and made you suffer a lot. Also because of this, my parents have taken especially good care of our family. Perhaps I, An Zhiqing, have wronged you, but the other An family members haven''t. On the contrary, they have been very considerate of both of us. Can you understand this point?"


    "What exactly are you trying to say?" Liuling wasn''t stupid. Of course she could tell there was more to what he was saying.


    "I just want to tell you that too much goodwill can''t withstand erosion. And no one is willing to see someone else''s cold face."


    An Zhiqing wasn''t riding the bike very fast. When Liuling heard this, she could no longer sit still and directly jumped off the bike.


    Luckily shended steadily, but it still gave An Zhiqing a fright.


    He got off the bike and turned it around to push back. "Don''t you think you''ve changed too much over these years? You get upset over the smallest things. Everyone has to coax you and let you have your way, right? But why should others have to coax you and let you have your way?"


    Liuling''s eyes turned red. "Have I changed? Haven''t you changed? An Zhiqing, when you say I''ve changed, have you ever reflected on yourself? Our life was perfectly fine, I don''t even know what your family said to you to make you be so guarded against me all the time. I''ve given birth to two children for you. Wen Qing is almost old enough to get married. Do you think this is interesting?"


    "So in the end, it stilles down to you not getting your share of the family property to keep and manage as you like, so you''re upset and indiscriminately take it out on everyone, right?" An Zhiqing asked her. "I''ve told you countless times, it''s not that I''m guarding against you, but that those things are safest if they''re not taken out. If they''re taken out, where could you put them? I''m not home most of the time, and a petty thief could easily break into our house. What would you do if the things were stolen?"


    "Is it safer to keep them outside then? An Zhiqing, I don''t believe your two younger brothers are as guarded against their wives as you are, guarding against me and not letting me know anything. At least your fourth brother wouldn''t be like this with Su Ying. He wouldn''t keep everything from her."


    "So you think you''re the same as Su Ying? She''s the descendant of the Su family. Although they fell on hard times for some years, Grandfather Su raised his granddaughter himself and groomed her as his sessor. Her own family property isn''t any less than your fourth brother''s. Comparatively speaking, your fourth brother is also far inferior to her in managing family finances. And he has an impulsive personality. Su Ying is more stable than him and better suited to be the head of household.


    "So you also think I''m inferior to Su Ying. Dad, Mom and Grandma all think this way, right?" Liuling was unwilling. She was the daughter-inw of the eldest grandson in the family. How could she be willing to be pressed down by her younger sister-inw everywhere?


    "Liuling, I have never thought you were inferior to anyone. People are different and can''t bepared everywhere. Su Ying is good at doing business since she learned it from a young age. What you''re good at is teaching. It''s like how I''ve thrived in the army all these years, while my little sister has been naturally better at making money since she was born. If you asked me to make money, I might not be as good as her. But if you made her join the army, she definitely wouldn''t be able to take it. There''s no basis forparison at all. Why can''t you understand this point?"


    In all the years An Zhiqing had been married, he had never felt so powerless in his marital rtions as now.


    After Grandpa presided over dividing up the family property, he had felt Liuling''s dissatisfaction. So he chose some suitable jewelry for her, and it wasn''t like he didn''t reveal anything to her at all.


    What he had considered at the time was indeed safety, which was why he didn''t n on moving those things. But in Liuling''s attitude toward her inws, he also felt shecked discretion in certain areas.


    Aside from those two hairpins, Wen Qing had said more than once that she gave the snacks she made for Wen Qing to her nephews in the maternal family, even when Wen Qing was unwilling.


    So Wen Qing, who Liuling had raised, was not closer to her maternal cousins. Instead, she preferred being with Chenye. When she was little, she even preferred staying here at Liu Ling''s ce, which also made sense.


    "You don''t need to make excuses. I''m not so unaware as to not realize that I''m inferior to Su Ying in your eyes. My maternal family is also not as well off as hers to provide such arge dowry." Liuling didn''t know what was going on with herself either. In any case, there was a stuck feeling in her heart that made her ufortable.


    "I''ve already said everything I wanted to say. If you insist on thinking this way, there''s nothing more I can do," An Zhiqing said to Liu Ling in his sternest tone yet. They were clearly headed for an argument, so he might as welly it all out inly: "To put it bluntly, you just can''t stand seeing other people living better lives than you, living more freely than you. But if others are living well, that''s due to their own abilities. Our family isn''t doing so bad either, am I right? I give you all my sry, and never restrict how much you can spend. You have the chance to pursue your own talents, yet you stubbornly cling to meaningless things, which will only make life messier. Now that I''ve said this much, if you can think it through, we can have a good life together going forward, and the family won''t hold it against you either. But if you really can''t understand, then you don''t need to attend these family gatherings in the future. No need to dampen everyone''s mood."


    After he finished, An Zhiqing climbed on his bike and looked back at her. "Let''s go, it''ste. Time to head home."


    Liu Ling silently let tears fall as she looked away.


    An Zhiqing was fuming now too. He shoved off forcefully on his bike and left.


    Seeing this, Liu Ling cried loudly in anger, but after she finished crying, she still got up to leave. When she reached the intersection however, she turned a corner.


    An Zhiqing emerged from the darkened corner of the intersection and secretly followed her all the way until she entered the Liu family home before heading back himself.


    No matter how angry he was, there was no way he could abandon a woman alone on the street in the dead of night - if something happened, he''d only regret itter.


    But Liu Ling''s attitude really was infuriating. If he didn''t teach her a lesson, she''d keep floating further and further from reality.


    With so many people in this world, why did she have topare herself to those better off than her? Why notpare herself to his two sisters-inw?


    Truly, too many good days had gone to her head!

 Chapter 437: 437 Not suffering from scarcity but suffering from Inequality

    <h4>Chapter 437</h4>


    In the dead of night, the Liu family''s daughter had returned to her maternal home, her eyes still red. Liu Father and Liu Mother could naturally see that something was wrong.


    The old couple exchanged nces. Liu''s Father turned around and left the room while Liu Mother had her go wash up and lie down in bed before asking her, "Did you have a fight with Zhiqing? What happened? It''s rare for him toe back for a visit, and you''ve only gotten to spend time together like this a couple times this past year. What issue couldn''t be talked through properly?"


    "Mom!" Liu Ling hugged her mother tightly, choking up as she spoke, "I don''t even know if I did something wrong myself, but I just feel suffocated by these days, even though dividing up the family assets was supposed to be a good thing. Why do we feel worse off now than when we had nothing?"


    Liu Ling was closest with her mother out of anyone, and would usually not hide anything from her, instead seeking her advice and looking for solutions from her.


    After quietly listening to her daughter''s words, Liu Mother sighed helplessly, "So you feel that Zhiqing should have no secrets from you at all, or that he should hand over everything for you to manage?"


    "I''m not demanding that everything has to be ced in my hands, but aren''t spouses supposed to be honest with each other? Isn''t that the bare minimum?" Liu Ling said, "If even the closest married couple has to y games and can''t be frank, then what''s the point of being together?"


    Liu Ling''s thoughts weren''t exactly wrong, but they were still quite naive.


    "What if he insists on not telling you? Do you n on still staying with him?"


    "I..."


    Liu Ling fell silent. She just felt stifled in her heart, but had not thought about getting a divorce or anything.


    Seeing her daughter''s hesitant expression, Liu Mother understood her thoughts.


    "Since you''re still going to live your days together, everything you''re fighting over now is meaningless. You''ve been pushing this issue for years and he still refuses to tell you, which shows that your pestering has no effect on him. In this matter, you''re the only one who can''t let go, and the only one suffering, which gives the impression of unreasonable demands." Liu Mother was older and saw things much more clearly. "No one can bepletely selfless! Your inws are already quite open-minded to split up the family assets early and give it to you two. Zhiqing treats you well too. When you feel upset, think back to our own family. Your grandmother is nearly 90 but still clutches onto every cent of her pension money. Do you think your father has bared his heart to me? It was only when your eldest brother got engaged that year that your father was willing to hand over his sry to me. The money had barely warmed up in my hands before it was all spent on you kids..."


    In truth, everyone was the same. Looking back over a lifetime, it was all heartache.


    How many truly perfect good men could there be in this world!


    And even if they existed, you''d have to see if you deserved someone like that.


    The right lid for every pot. When you think your partner isn''t good enough, look back at yourself - are you really that great?


    Whether you''re lucky or not depends on having an open mindset. Dwelling on things only makes life difficult for yourself.


    From Liu Mother''s perspective,pared to all the other people around them, her daughter had the easiest life.


    The husband could provide, they had family assets, the kids were grown up, money was notcking, so what more could she ask for?


    "Mom, hearing you say all this, it makes me feel like I''m the one being unreasonable!" They do say honest words pierce the ear, so the truth is always hardest to hear.


    "My girl, listen to your mother''s advice. In this life, as long as you don''t go hungry or cold, you''re already quite fortunate. And if you can spend money on whatever you want, your parents are healthy, your kids don''t stir up trouble, the people around you don''t scheme against you, then you''re living a blessed life. Think carefully, isn''t this right?" Liu Mother said, "And your two sisters-inw, you''re close with them, so I should be d to see you siblings get along so well, but you can''t be muddleheaded about things either. The things Zhiqing gives you, how could you give them away to your sisters-inw? How do you think that makes Zhiqing feel? How does that look to your inws?"


    "But wasn''t it Eldest Sister-inw who said she liked that hairpin I had? At the time, Zhiqing had given me a whole box of jewelry, over 10 pieces including bracelets and earrings, so I casually gave them two items." Later, Liu Ling regretted it, because she saw both her sisters-inw go out wearing those hair essories from her room, and while Mother-in-Law didn''t seem to notice or recognize them, Father-in-Law''s expression changed.


    When An Zhiqing called to confront her about this matter, she also felt ashamed, which led to her snapping at him.


    After that, she never gave those items to her sisters-inw again. As for the snacks Zhiqing gave her, those were all homemade treats that all her nieces and nephews enjoyed, so she wouldn''t begrudge sharing those little things, right?


    But that only happened a few times, because Zhiqing stopped giving her more. Her nephew Wen Qing would sometimes say Auntie made this or that delicious thing when he stayed over at her house, but he was never told to bring any back anymore. Yet she had always felt Zhiqing was only superficial generosity.


    "If you really feel close with them and want to give them something, spend a little money, even just a few tens of yuan, to pick out a couple items at the mall. Try looking at it from another angle - those were things they risked their lives to keep back in the day, yet you gave them away so casually. If it were me, I wouldn''t feel assured leaving my things for you to manage either, fearing you''d give handouts to your maternal family behind my back." Liu Mother had never actually said such blunt words to her before, as she hadn''t known the An family''s attitude about this matter, thinking it was just some trinkets they casually gave away.


    But now it was obvious they took note of things even if they didn''t speak up about it.


    "And demanding rent from your second sister-inw for those two shops, when you originally refused to ept any rent from her, and now so bluntly asking for it, how could you open your mouth to say that? After letting her use them for free for two years, now with one request you''ve offended her." If this wasn''t a child she herself gave birth to, Liu Mother would look down on her.


    There were proper ways to handle matters, yet she went and caused trouble for herself.


    "Mom, I didn''t intend to ask Sister-in-Law for shop rent either. You absolutely can''t bring this matter up. She''s my own sister-inw. It doesn''t matter if the property sits unused, she can use it, it doesn''t cost much." Back then, Liu Ling had felt too embarrassed to even ept rent, so how could she possibly broach the subject of wanting money now? She could never open her mouth to say that.


    Liu Mother sighed, "And that''s why I say you''re my silly daughter! It would have been better if you collected the rent back then. How well or poorly people live depends on their own ability entirely. Rather than ming others now for not having earned money."


    From Eldest Sister-in-Law''s perspective, it was the same. Both were daughters-inw and sisters-inw of the family, yet Little Sister basically gave Second Household over a hundred yuan every month for free. How could her heart not feel unbnced?


    As mother and daughter continued talking, dawn broke. Only now did Liu Ling realize there were so many issues at home, with the two shops even causing so much conflict between Eldest and Second Sister-in-Law.


    She had never heard any of this before, and assumed the family was quite harmonious.

 Chapter 438: 438 Only She didn鈥檛 Take the Chance

    <h4>Chapter 438</h4>


    No one knew whose big rooster crowed. It crowed a few times then stopped, as if its throat was blocked.


    Liu Ling''s mother yawned and said, "I''m going to make breakfast. Go back home after eating. Remember this: live your own life well. There''s a saying that goes ''help in an emergency but not in poverty''. Our family is not so poor that we can''t afford meals. Don''t try to help."


    In the past, Liu Ling would have gotten up to help.


    But now, her mind was too messy to care about anything else. Shey there, lost in thought about her life and the contradictions in the Liu family that she had learned from her mother.


    She seemed to have really made a mistake.


    But her intentions were good!


    Her thinking was simple. She lost to Su Ying because her family was not wealthy. If her older and second brother had the ability to make money, she would not have been pushed around by Su Ying all the time.


    When her sister-inw wanted to open a tailor shop, she happened to remember her family had two storefronts left and casually offered them to her. But her older sister-inw did not have ns to open a shop at the time.


    She had not slept all night and her mind was still groggy.


    Liu Ling''s mother called her toe eat breakfast. Her older and second brother''s families also got up. After hearing her mother''s wordsst night, Liu Ling realized her feeling that her older sister-inw had been cold to her recently was not her imagination.


    She had evenined about it to her second sister-inw, who said it was because her older sister-inw was not happy with work.


    Before Liu Ling went back, An Zhiqing came over with things.


    Those in the Liu family who had work went to work and those who had school went to school. Liu Ling''s father took time off work so her son could help resolve his daughter''s family issues.


    Liu Ling and her mother were in the yard. Her father called An Zhiqing inside to talk and asked about his life recently,ining that he hadn''t brought his two children over. But he didn''t mention their fight.


    An Zhiqing also didn''t bring it up.


    After sitting with Liu Ling''s father for a while, he went to the yard to find her. Liu Ling''s mother gave her a look and quickly left to give them space.


    "Let''s go home. There''s not much space here at your mom''s and you can''t stay here either. I''m only back for a few days and will leave again soon. We only get together like this twice a year. You don''t want to waste the time fighting, right?" An Zhiqing kept his voice very gentle, even though he didn''t think he was wrong, or even understand what she had to be angry about.


    Now the whole family hated her and no one said she was wrong, so what more did she want?


    Liu Ling knew his temper and didn''t dare defy him at this time, so just nodded.


    Liu Ling''s mother hid nearby, relieved with a sigh. Only then did she dare toe out. "Zhiqing, don''t leave at noon. Stay and eat lunch here. Call Wenqing and your siblings over too."


    An Zhiqing wanted to refuse but then Liu Ling''s father said, "Right, stay for lunch. Look, you brought so much stuff this trip. Let''s kill that chicken at noon and us men can drink a few."


    It would be inappropriate for him to refuse again, so he said, "When I came, Wenqing took my sister to his aunt''s. Those two were looking forward to the roast suckling pig they didn''t finishst night. Let''s not call them for lunch. I''ll have theme visit you another time."


    "That''s fine too. We''ll eat our meal and they cane themselves whenever they want since they''re grown up now." Liu Ling''s mother couldn''t help but resent her daughter in her heart. She didn''t understand what was worth getting so angry about.


    Look how well off they were! She had lived most of her life and never even seen what roast suckling pig looked like!


    Her family was not bad off. Her husband and son and daughter-inw all had ie. They could enjoy meat every ten days or half month. But with so many in the family, each person only got a few bites. Still, they were one of the better off families.


    There were even poorer people who couldn''t eat their fill.


    In the afternoon when they got home, An Zhiqing busied himself tidying up the house.


    With the elderly family members having moved out, the house suddenly had several empty rooms to clean up.


    After hesitating again and again, Liu Ling asked him, "I went to my mom''sst night and she scolded me badly. Do you...also think I''m being unreasonable and making trouble over nothing?"


    "Everyone has some temper and times when they feel wronged. You can asionally be upset with me, but we can''t fight every day living together... Most importantly, you shouldn''t have fought with your parents and younger sister. We''re both adults now with our own lives. Everyone''s human. If you frown at them all day, who would feelfortable seeing that? They don''t owe us anything."


    Too much quarreling was making trouble, but she was finally reflecting on herself, so An Zhiqing didn''t want to stimte her with these words.


    "I understand now. I''ll change in the future. Don''t be angry with me anymore." Liu Ling was just being a bit petty. If it came down to it, she didn''t dare actually do anything, and didn''t even have the nerve to make a scene.


    She knew clearly in her heart that if they really couldn''t get along at their age, she would never have a better life than now. But with An Zhiqing''s status, he could easily marry a young woman if he left her.


    Wasn''t An Zhiren a good example? Zheng Suchun was nearly ten years younger than him, sticking to him like glue every day, coaxing and pampering him, not daring to ck off at all, afraid he would leave her.


    But she had to admire this about Suchun. She could shamelessly coax a man, something Liu Ling could not do.


    "It''s fine as long as you understand. I''m not ming you either. Let''s handle matters fairly. We should live our own lives and not feel we have topare with others. There are countless people in this world, and beyond one mountain is a taller one. Even if youpare well with family, you can''tpare with those outside. There''s no need to do unnecessary things."


    "I haven''t criticized you yet. Leaving me halfway in the middle of the night. You were heartless too."


    "You know it wasn''t safe sote. Let''s see if you dare throw another tantrum next time." An Zhiqing didn''t tell her that he had followed and escorted her to the Liu family''s, afraid she would have no sense next time.


    From that day onward, although no one said anything more, Zhi Xia and Su Ying both clearly felt Liu Ling had changed.


    Of course, this change was for the better.


    The past was the past. She was willing to reconcile, so Zhi Xia naturally wouldn''t cling to it.


    Chen Ye hade back for a period. At sixteen, he had already started working. He was the youngest graduate student researcher at their institute of science and technology, and was a software engineer in machine design research.


    Zhi Xia didn''t really understand this profession, and it also had some confidentiality so he couldn''t talk about it outwardly.


    Because time was tight, he only stayed two days before leaving again.


    After school started, Wanqing went abroad again as well.


    The houses at Hn Elegant Garden sold extremely quickly. The remaining ten-plus buildings sold out within an hour of release, and all sold for over 700,000 yuan.


    She had originally priced them with room to bargain down, but didn''t expect such high demand, leading to no one bargaining. It was also proof that there was no shortage of wealthy people in Jincheng now.


    Another batch ofmercial housing also sold out within half a month of release. The speed of capital return was very noticeable.


    Liu Ling had just heard from colleagues about the sale price and poprity of Hn Elegant Garden houses. A student in her ss came from a well-off family, and the child''s uncle had bought a house in Hn Elegant Garden. He had bragged about it to his ssmates and she overheard, so passed it on to Liu Ling as gossip.


    Then she had been absentminded the whole afternoon, also somewhat dizzy.


    If she remembered correctly, this Hn Elegant Garden was the wealthy district built by Sheng''an Construction that they had bought houses in, priced at 500,000 yuan originally. An Zhiqing had asked her opinion and she thought it wasn''t worth it so rejected it.


    In less than two months, the price had risen by 200,000 yuan.


    Only then did she finally believe the price Zhi Xia had given them was indeed a discounted price for family.


    Unfortunately, she was the only one who had not seized this opportunity.

 Chapter 439: 439 Watching Your Fortune Slip Away

    <h4>Chapter 439</h4>


    You know that feeling of watching your own wealth slip away right before your eyes? Liu Ling was having that exact feeling right now.


    Wen Qing found out from Third Elder Brother that Liu Ling was sick, and it seemed quite serious. So she sent her youngest daughter next door to stay for a few days, afraid that she might pass the illness onto her daughter and affect her schooling.


    She had been busy these past days and hadn''t had any time to visit Liu Ling. By the time she was finally free, it was already several dayster.


    Liu Ling''s illness had already mostly recovered, but when Wen Qing saw her, she noticed the blisters on her lips were very obvious. Her whole demeanor was also very off, no longer her usual cold and aloof attitude that annoyed people. Instead, she exuded an awkwardness from the inside out, along with a feeling that she wanted to say something but didn''t dare. Wen Qing didn''t know how to describe it.


    Later, when she was chatting with Third Elder Brother about this, he sneered and said, "She''s not sick at all. I think she clearly regrets it and is anxious."


    Wen Qing looked up with confusion in her eyes. "Could it be because of the house in Hn Elegant Garden?"


    She wasn''t randomly guessing. Earlier when she saw Liu Ling, Liu Ling had brought up the house in Hn Elegant Garden several times in what seemed like casual conversation. But she mentioned it too many times for it to actually be casual.


    At the time, Wen Qing didn''t want to discuss the house with her, so she smoothly changed the subject whenever Liu Ling brought it up.


    Butter, recalling Liu Ling''s regretful expression and hesitance before she left, it really wasn''t difficult to guess what had happened.


    Other than herself, no one else knew that Eldest Brother had also bought a house there. He didn''t allow her to tell anyone, and she was also afraid that telling others would get him in trouble.


    "That''s exactly it. We bought ours for 500,000, and she clearly knows that. But now the sale price you''ve listed publicly is all around 700,000. That''s a difference of 200,000..." Although this matter felt quite satisfying, she couldn''t help feeling aggrieved on Eldest Brother''s behalf.


    Of course, this feeling of aggrievement definitely wasn''t because of the 200,000 price difference. After all, they had gotten the discount, so Wen Qing would be the one losing out.


    It was just that she felt Eldest Brother was really too good for having married someone like Liu Ling.


    If he had married a wife willing to yield to him, who could follow him on military postings, then at least there would be someone who understood him by his side, and their children could be raised under their care.


    Speaking of which, An ZhiXian had wanted to ask Wen Qing for a while already, "Little sister, you didn''t sell us the house at a loss, right? Don''t do things at a loss just because we''re your elder brothers. If that''s really the case, we wouldn''t feel at ease living in the house."


    From his perspective, at first Wen Qing had only nned to move with Su Ying and hadn''t considered them at all. He and Second Elder Brother had actively asked to buy.


    If the price Wen Qing gave Su Ying was already discounted, then she wouldn''t be able to charge them more. Wouldn''t that mean her little sister was losing even more money!


    Wen Qing burst outughing. "Third Elder Brother, don''t worry. I only didn''t earn too much off you all." Though it was still not a small sum, since like she said, thepany didn''t belong solely to her. Even if she bought it herself she would have to pay. Not earning money meant even Hu Zhou wouldn''t be happy, let alone her.


    If everyone started doing business like this, thepany probably wouldn''t survive for long.


    After all, this wasn''t just one or two houses, but several high-end residences.


    As for theter houses, no one expected they would sell so well, leading to her earning far more than initially projected.


    "Hearing you say that puts my mind at ease." An ZhiXian said.


    After that, every time Liu Ling saw Wen Qing, she had that regretful look of someone who knew they shouldn''t have done something. Wen Qing pretended not to see it.


    She had secretly asked Eldest Brother when he nned to tell Liu Ling about buying the house. After all, this wasn''t something they could hide their entire lives if they didn''t divorce.


    But An Zhiqing only told her to keep it secret and not tell anyone.


    It took a full six months of day and night work just to finish renovating the 5 buildings.


    Wen Qing''s was the first toplete renovation. Even though she had used all eco-friendly materials, for her own safety she still filled the house with nts after finishing renovation and let it air out for five to six months before finally moving in. Su Ying still had another month before she could move into hers.


    Su Ying joked with Wen Qing, "You''ve got to properly host a housewarming banquet this time. Can''t believe you''re a major shareholder of Huasheng Group yet don''t even think to take care of your own hotel. Look at others, they''ll take any small excuse to host an event, you should take this chance to earn back some of those gifts you''ve given out over the years."


    They were all people in the business circle. Today it was someone else''s event, tomorrow it would be another''s. Whether you went or not didn''t matter, they nevercked gifts to bring along.


    Compared to Wen Qing, Su Ying hadn''t given nearly as many gifts. She hosted an event when her daughter turned six, another for her son''s one month celebration, plus her factory''s opening. Since everyone else did it, she didn''t feel it was inappropriate.


    On the other hand, Wen Qing had a whole house full of kids yet not one proper banquet or received others'' gifts.


    "You''re a businesswoman too. Can''t you use this to make money?" Though she was just joking, there was no way to actually earn money from this. If anything she''d lose money.


    Sure people would bring gifts when they came, but the food and drinks prepared to host them weren''t free either. Huasheng wasn''t cheap. At most she could earn dividends, but not take others'' gifted money.


    "Let''s forget the housewarming banquet. No need to be too ostentatious." Wen Qing said.


    "How is that being ostentatious? This is a big event. Even if you don''t want to host others, shouldn''t we at least host a family table to celebrate for you?" Su Ying wanted to host an event too. If Wen Qing didn''t pave the way first, wouldn''t it be awkward for herter!


    Whether for money or not, most people''s thinking was that happy events and sad events should both be celebrated, just for the liveliness.


    Hearing this, Wen Qing finally wiped the smile from her face and asked her, "Sister-inw, stop pretending you don''t understand. A housewarming banquet isn''t some big event. The difficulty lies with Eldest Sister-inw."


    If she really hosted a banquet, should she invite Liu Ling or not?


    It would be inappropriate not to invite her when everyone else was invited, but if she did invite her, Wen Qing was quite worried Liu Ling would make herself sick again from anger over the housewarming banquet.


    Only then did Su Ying confess, "Fine, I admit I just want to watch the excitement. Who told her to always act that way, making it seem like we all owed her? But I''m giving you advance notice, no matter if you host or not, I''m definitely going to when the timees. Moving is a big deal, lively celebrations afterwards will help bring good fortune. I don''t want to block my own path because of someone else''s feelings. You should be the same, don''t consider things too carefully when others never cared about our feelings when they were cold towards us."


    She was right, overthinking things too much would only make things difficult for yourself.


    Conversely, as long as you werefortable, why bother considering others'' feelings?


    While Wen Qing chatted idly with Su Ying, things were also uneasy on Liu Ling''s side.


    After thest frank conversation with An Zhiqing, the couple''s rtionship had actually improved quite a bitpared to before. What Liu Mother said had also given her new understanding towards her two sisters-inw.

 Chapter 440: 440 Never Regret

    <h4>Chapter 440</h4>


    Anyway, since they didn''t have an overt falling out on the surface, she just pretended to be muddled and acted like she didn''t know anything as usual.


    The Liu family''s situation was middling, not too poor to starve but not affluent either, and the whole big family lived together.


    The story started from yesterday afternoon.


    second sister-inw suddenly showed up at her door, saying she had saved up some money herself and wanted to buy a house, but was short of money, so she wanted to borrow some from her.


    When she had opened up her shop two years ago, she had borrowed a few hundred yuan from her, which she still hadn''t paid back yet.


    If it had really been 300-500, she would have lent it to her, but she immediately asked for 5,000 yuan.


    She did have that much money, but after that conversation with An Zhiqingst time, half of the family savings lent out was a big deal, so no matter what she had to consider carefully and discuss it with her husband.


    After thinking it over, she refused. As a result, second sister-inw immediately changed her face, saying she could borrow 2,000-3,000 yuan, and said the tailor shop was doing good business and she had earned half the money for a house thesest two years, she justcked a few thousand at the moment. She wanted to borrow it from her first, and would pay her back after the new year when she earned money.


    Speaking to this point, refusing would hurt feelings, so Liu Ling took out 2,000 yuan for her.


    But then she immediately heard that eldest sister-inw and second sister-inw had gotten into a fight, and her own mother had even been pushed over and hurt her leg and went straight to the hospital.


    When Liu Ling went, she found out it was still about the house.


    Originally everyone''s lives had been the same, and rtions were intimate.


    Liu second sister-inw opened a tailor shop and also earned some money selling clothes, eldest sister-inw was a bit unhappy in her heart about it, but she could endure it, she never said anything about it openly.


    And now, she suddenly wanted to live in a new house, still in those newly developed buildings in the city center, even the smallest ones cost over 20,000 yuan per unit.


    At breakfast she heard they were going to reserve a house, and if not for Liu Ling lending 2,000 yuan, plus borrowing from her maternal home and piecing together from rtives and friends...


    Liu eldest sister-inw''s mind went nk instantly - they were going to live in a new house, while she was still squeezing in this broken down house with her inws, which wouldn''t even belong to her in the future.


    This woman was prone to doing stupid things when impulsive. At one wrong word, she immediately started fighting, and even dragged Liu Ling into it.


    After all, if not for Liu Ling''s two shops, Liu second sister-inw wouldn''t have earned so much money either. But Liu Ling had helped her time and again without personally gaining any benefit, how could she not feel dissatisfied?


    If told not to let Liu second sister-inw buy the house, she would also feel unhappy in her heart, after all it was money she had earned.


    She had wanted to stop squeezing together with them for a long time, it was too inconvenient living together.


    Now she was buying a house with money she earned herself, what business was it of others?


    Of course, Xia didn''t know about the Liu family matters.


    After thinking it over, she booked a courtyard at Huasheng Hotel, with 20rge tables inside specially chosen for Sunday.


    Pei Jing had alsoe back a day early, since he was the man of house after all, he had to be present for such an important asion.


    Xia also deliberately paid attention and noticed only Wen Qing brought his younger sister, and they gave a cash gift, but didn''t see a sign of Liu Ling.


    She went over to ask Wen Qing, "Howe your mother didn''te?"


    "Something happened at my maternal grandmother''s ce, my big aunt and second aunt had an argument and pushed over my grandma, she''s in the hospital now. My mother has been going to the hospital every day and hasn''t been to school for several days already." Wen Qing said.


    Xia let out a shocked breath and waved Wen Qing over, "Then go on inside quickly, your grandpa and them are at that table inside."


    This was a courtyard Huasheng Hotel hadter expanded - after all thend they originally got was very big. Business became good so they utilized all the remaining vacantnd and built a veryrge rear courtyard, which was further divided into several smaller courtyards, perfectly suited for hosting banquets.


    Xia was taking advantage of being a major shareholder here, otherwise with the queues here she wouldn''t have been able to book it at all.


    Also because she hadn''t nned it early, unlike Ying who had booked it a month in advance.


    On such a happy day, Xia simply didn''t want to think about things like that. She might as well pretend she didn''t know.


    The possessions at home had already been moved to the new house thest two days, they were going directly back there at night too.


    Because she was happy, Xia drank two full sses of wine. Sitting red-faced in the passenger seat, her whole body curled up there looking very petite.


    The triplets and little six ran into the house as soon as they got out of the car. By the time Pei Jing was supporting her into the house, the children were nowhere to be seen.


    In any case the room allocation had been taken care of long ago. They had been helping arrange their new rooms the past couple days, so since they didn''t have school tomorrow, she might as well leave them be to y wildly on their own.


    Pei Jing poured her a ss of honey water and fed it to her.


    She rolled around on the soft big bed, mumbling "So hot, I''m going to be hot to death."


    "See if you dare drink alcohol next time." Pei Jing sat down and pulled her into his arms, then stripped open her clothes for her.


    "I won''t drink again in the future, today... was because I was happy." Xia obediently stroked his chin with her hand, the hard stubble massaging her thumb pad ceaselessly, ying with gusto. Softly saying "I have a home now, you know? I have a home now."


    Her gaze was hazy, she probably didn''t even know who she was talking to, just repeatedly emphasizing this one sentence.


    It was precisely because she had experienced loneliness that she especially liked lively bustle.


    Sometimes she would feel fortunate to have him, to have them by her side.


    Even when the children caused trouble sometimes, even though raising children took a lot of effort, she had never regretted giving birth to these children.


    Just asionally waking up from sleep, she would have the illusion that her experiences were like a dream. Listening to the children''s noise and mor would let her feel that all of this was real.


    No one understood better than those around her, this seemingly ordinary sentence, yet not knowing how much bitterness and hardship was contained within.


    "Yes, you have a home now, our home." Pei Jing whispered by her ear.


    Waking up, she felt an unbearable thirst.


    Pei Jing asked her from the bedside "Still feel ufortable?"


    "A bit upset stomach, also very thirsty." This was Xia''s true feelings.


    "Quickly go brush your teeth, I''ll pour you a ss of honey water, Sister Zhang cooked congee in the kitchen." Pei Jing urged her.


    The morning after drinking alcohol, there was a hard to describe taste in the mouth that even she herself found distasteful.


    She regretted drinking with such abandonst night a bit, also felt a trace of lingering allure.


    The aftereffects of drinking alcohol were very ufortable, but having just experienced that muddled feeling, it also made one somewhat addicted.


    She probably understood why these men all liked drinking alcohol now.


    When Xia went downstairs, not one of the children were seen.


    "Chen Ze and them still aren''t awake yet?"


    "They went wild in the home gymst night aftering home, after washing up they still wanted to watch a movie. If not for me forcefully making them go to sleep, who knows if they''d still be messing around upstairs now."


    Pei Jing exined. Indeed the house''s design was very good, it was just with this, these children would probably go crazy now.


    But Xia wasn''t overly worried. At most it was intense interest at the start, after a period of time ying too much they would even find it tiring to go y, she reckoned.


    Sister Zhang brought the congee over and set it down in front of her, also advising her to drink less alcohol in the future, drinking too much had no benefit other than difort.


    Xia agreed and also said "Sister Zhang, this house is bigger with more rooms, cleaning up is also pretty troublesome. It''ll be tiring for you these couple days. I''m already looking for people, when new servants arrive in the familyter, you''ll also have to watch over them more."


    "Look for people? Is my work not good enough?" Sister Zhang panicked instantly. Although she was a domestic helper at home, her days passedfortably. Leaving this ce she feared she wouldn''t find such good employers again.


    "No, Sister Zhang don''t misunderstand." Xia quickly said "You''ve done very well. I didn''t mean to dismiss you either. Just the house is bigger now, also an outside garden needing care, just you alone wouldn''t be able to handle sweeping and cleaning, so I thought to find another person to help out. If you know suitable people you can also refer them."


    "You scared me. I thought I hadn''t done a good job and you were going to fire me," said Sister Zhang as she wiped away some cold sweat. "If you''re looking to hire someone, I actually have a candidate in mind. She''s a distant rtive of mine, a pitiful girl. Her mother passed away early, and her stepmother doesn''t care much for the children from her previous marriage. Having a father or not makes little difference to her. However, she''s very capable when ites to housework, honed from a young age. If you think she''ll work out, I''ll go over tomorrow to discuss it with her family. They won''t have any objections. Most importantly, the girl knows her ce. She''s honest and won''t cause any trouble if shees over."


    "How old is she?" Xiao asked.


    "She''s sixteen. Don''t let her age fool you, she''s extremely capable with housework. Her birth mother passed when she was five or six years old. She''s been doing chores ever since she was little. She is a bit quiet though and doesn''t talk much..." said Sister Zhang.

 Chapter 441: 441 Has a somewhat pleasing Feeling

    <h4>Chapter 441</h4>


    "She''s only sixteen, still just a young girl. Being a nanny is too much of a waste for her. Why didn''t you have her go to the hair salon instead and learn a skill? That would be better than this kind of work for a girl," Zhi Xia said.


    "I''ve thought about that too, but you know how headstrong my girl is. She just has a stubborn mule personality. Sheins that the child is a dull clod who is rustic and doesn''t know how to entertain guests properly. She says she needs to work somewhere with girls who have glib tongues and can cajole and pacify customers, and who dress and look fashionable. She doesn''t want to just do menial work," Sister Zhang said with fullint.


    "Listening to you say this, I feel she''s actually a good girl. It''s just that she really is a bit too young. It''s not that I think she can''t do the work, just that she''s so young, it seems a pity for her to do this kind of work," Zhi Xia said. "Sister Zhang, you know our family''s situation. Pei Jing isn''t home often, and I''m busy a lot too. We want to find someone a little older here, a bit more mature, preferably over 30 years old. What you said about that girl is a bit pitiable, so let''s do this - if she''s willing, find her a job at the Red Maple Factory. There are lots of girls there, and it''s more suitable for a young girl to be with peers her own age. Coming to a family to be with us all day, wouldn''t her personality just be more dull?"


    "Oh my, you''re so thoughtful. Let me thank you for her first. I''ll go speak with her family tomorrow. This is a job she got for free, she''ll definitely be overjoyed," Sister Zhang quickly smiled and agreed, then asked, "Do you still need me to help you find someone?"


    "You can start looking around first. I''ll look on my end too. There''s no hurry, after all it''s someone who will be in our family. It would be even worse to find someone bad rather than not find anyone," Zhi Xia said.


    "You''re right, sometimes the more urgent something is, the less you can be urgent about it. Being too urgent can easily lead to mistakes," Sister Zhang agreed.


    Upstairs, when it was just the husband and wife, Pei Jing said, "That girl is a bit young, but Sister Zhang has been in the family for so many years, she is very reliable."


    To Pei Jing, Sister Zhang was someone who had looked after Pei''s family since he was a child. After decades ofpanionship and care, their rtionship was no longer simply employer and nanny.


    "Of course I know this. Sister Zhang''s character is absolutely trustworthy. I don''t distrust her either, just that a girl of that age really isn''t suitable for our family. Chen Ze and the others are fourteen or fifteen now too. Boys that age are especially curious about everything, like you said, maybe I''m overthinking things, but nipping any factors that shouldn''t exist in the bud isn''t bad either."


    She didn''t pay too much attention to family status. After all, when she was little she was even worse off than the girl Sister Zhang mentioned.


    She didn''t n to interfere in the children''s future rtionships either. As long as they were happy with their own choices, she would agree.


    But it was too early to talk about this now.


    "Anyway, you make the decisions about family matters, I won''t interfere," Pei Jing said.


    He wasn''t unaware, just that having it suddenly brought up like this, he still felt quite emotional, feeling like time passed so quickly.


    Even Chen Ze and the others were fourteen or fifteen now.


    Just like Sister Zhang said, there was no reason to turn down a job that just fell into yourp.


    Sister Zhang had originally wanted to bring the girl over to thank her, but Zhi Xia declined, directly calling to have arrangements made downstairs.


    Sister Zhang knew she was busy, being able to arrange a job was already not easy, so she definitely could not be upset over this.


    On the contrary, havingparisons and differences would make her work even more diligently.


    While the children were still asleep, Zhi Xia pulled Pei Jing into the home theater, "Let me show you some real technology, don''t be scared."


    They had also watched TV in space, but because of the environment limitations, other than having slightly better image quality, there wasn''t much difference from normal TV watching.


    But this time the home theater Zhi Xia installed used technology from another world, an extremely high level. Putting on the sses and turning on the power gave you a truly immersive experience, making you feel like you were right there in it.


    Zhi Xia chose an interster battle film, because she couldn''t get online in this world, all her resources were stored in something like a memory card.


    When Zhi Xia first spoke about it, Pei Jing didn''t think much of it, but aside from the deep immersion, the shock from the technology left him dazed for a long time.


    "Are all these things real experiences from other worlds?" Pei Jing asked her.


    "I wouldn''t know about that, it''s also possible it''s just something made up by other people, like our TV shows," Zhi Xia said. "Pretty cool right?"


    "It''s quite good, it''d be great if our country had this kind of tech too." Only if the country was strong could they avoid being bullied, and the people live without worry.


    "It will slowly develop, it will happen," she couldn''t confirm other things, but before her soul returned at least, the country''s development was already very powerful, one of the top few powerful nations. "Also, if I''m not wrong, Chenye is probably researching this kind of thing. He asked me for some rted materials, all about these fields, but I don''t know about his specific work, it''s confidential after he told me."


    "You don''t think Chenye joined some confidential research project?" Zhi Xia looked at Pei Jing, suspecting he might know, also Chenye saidst time he was going to a research institute and wouldn''t contact home for a long time. Up til now it had already been half a year, he really hadn''t called at all.


    But Pei Jing''s expression didn''t change, only saying, "He''s grown up and has his own thoughts. As parents we just need to confirm our child''s safety isn''t an issue. We shouldn''t interfere too much in other things, let him develop on his own, and give him appropriate support."


    Hearing him say this, she became even more certain of her guess.


    Smiling, she didn''t ask further.


    What he said was right, the child''s work was special, some things couldn''t be spoken aloud. You really shouldn''t pry too much.


    After New Year''s, Su Ying also moved over.


    This time at the housewarming banquet, Liu Ling had no way to avoid it. She had lost a lot of weight, and didn''t look well mentally either, but her attitude was much better than before, even a bit fawning.


    Zhi Xia found it a bit baffling.


    Su Ying said she probably still had the house on her mind, and didn''t want to spend more money than them, but was too embarrassed to say it outright.


    Zhi Xia didn''t feel like she was trying to take advantage of them.


    After all, she had been wealthy for many years already, and Liu Ling had never tried to curry favor before.

 Chapter 442: 442 Good and evil are rewarded.

    <h4>Chapter 442</h4>


    Su Ying had really misunderstood Liu Ling on this point. It was just that the mess at her maternal home recently had hit her too hard. She had given money and effort, yet in the end she was med instead. She suddenly realized how good Zhi Xia was to her and her child, and also how difficult it was to be a young daughter-inw.


    When she thought about it carefully, she had always yielded to her sisters-inw from her maternal home. She cared more about her nephews than her own children, always feeling that if she was more considerate to her parents and elder brother''s wife while they lived together, her parents could be more at ease.


    But she didn''t expect that people are always greedy, and her thoughtfulness was met with encroachment.


    Looking back now, she also had a young sister-inw. She had treated her and her child well too, yet she had done the same foolish things as her own sister-inw, inexplicably making people''s hearts turn cold, which didn''t turn out well either.


    When she thought this way, she realized her own mistakes.


    Although she still had some regrets about the house, let alone whether her husband would agree if she opened her mouth now to buy the house at the original price, she herself couldn''t get over that hurdle in her heart.


    Liu Ling was different from Wang Yue. She cared about face. Even if she was greedy, she needed to pretend.


    If she opened her mouth now, it would be no different from asking someone for money. She couldn''t do it either.


    No matter what others thought, it wouldn''t be difficult for Zhi Xia. They had to pretend to be oblivious.


    An ZhiXian was alone. After the house was ready, he quietly moved in without even a housewarming dinner, let alone a celebration banquet.


    However, Zhi Xia and Su Ying still gave him red envelopes, after all he had given them housewarming gifts before.


    The second elder brother''s house was furnished but empty, not knowing when he coulde back for a visit.


    Thepany was also rtively stable, without needing much care. Hong Feng Electronics had alsopletely got rid of the influence of foreign capital. It couldn''t surpass others in reputation, so it sought breakthroughs in technology. Every time otherpanies were about to catch up, it would have new products and technologies that surprised people.


    In the eyes of others, Zhi Xia''s family was stable, her career was sessful, her children promising, it seemed like a perfect life.


    Few people would remember that she was the pitiful little girl from the vige whose fate was changed many years ago.


    Perhaps even Sister Zhang would feel that the pitiful little girl from her rtive''s family, whom she wanted to introduce, was given a job by Zhi Xia just because she mentioned her, and it was because she had been in this family for so many years and Zhi Xia gave her face.


    Perhaps even Pei Jing, who was right there listening to their conversation, would think so.


    But only Zhi Xia herself knew that it was because she recalled her own experience and therefore took a liking to this stranger girl.


    When she was humiliated in her childhood, she had also countless times hoped that someone could help her, how nice would that be.


    But she didn''t meet any good-hearted people who could help her. Now that she had the ability, she was willing to go and help other pitiful people in need.


    Without a job, that girl might not be able to bear her parents'' beatings, and she might also be forced to marry out someday in the future because of a good bride price.


    With a job, she might still be unable to get rid of her father and stepmother''s control, but at least she would have more capital and courage to resist.


    Just a casual sentence from her could change a person''s destiny for life.


    ...


    When the olddy was over ny years old, she finally couldn''t hold on anymore and fell asleep for good on the recliner where the old master used to sit most often when he was alive.


    Dying at this age was considered a blessing. Her funeral was also held very grandly.


    After attending the funeral, Zhi Xia, with red eyes, was supported onto the car by Pei Jing.


    The car drove slowly on the road.


    Through the car window, Zhi Xia saw an old man with a hunched back. His hair was messy and his body was emaciated. In the summer heat he was wearing cotton-padded jacket and pants. He was rummaging through the trash can.


    When he turned his head, Zhi Xia barely recognized that this was Principal Liang from back then!


    He did live a long life this time.


    It was a pity that after all those schemes, he gained nothing and suffered himself, making others suffer too.


    The corners of her mouth turned up. Her young son next to her asked, "Mom, what are youughing at?"


    "I''mughing that, good and evil will be rewarded in the end. People must have a conscience."


    Little Six scratched his head in puzzlement. It wasn''t that he didn''t understand the meaning of what she said, he just didn''t know where his old mom''s sigh came from!


    [End of main text]


    There will be epilogues to follow...

 Chapter 443: The Final episode of 0443

    <h4>Chapter 443</h4>


    For Zhou Nan, she was extremely fortunate in this life.


    Although she was from a farming family, due to a coincidence, her grandfather at home once saved a wealthy household in the city, and thus secured an extremely good marriage for her, which was envied and craved by everyone.


    When she first met An JingZhi, he was already like a young master from a wealthy family.


    She was uneducated and did not know how to describe it, she only knew her own thoughts at the time, that if she could really marry such a man, not to mention that he was the young master of a well-established wealthy family, even if he was from a farming family more impoverished than her own, she would still be willing.


    The two met only once before holding their wedding ceremony.


    Zhou Nan could clearly feel that the other party looked down on her.


    More than a month after their marriage, he had only touched her on their wedding night. Her mother-inw did not make things too difficult for her, but she also clearly did not like her.


    Fortunately, her womb was strong, and she conceived in one try, giving birth to a boy. After giving birth, her days became slightly better, probably also because of the child, as his attitude towards her also began to soften.


    Zhou Nan was born with the physique to conceive easily. Within a few years of entering the An family, she had already given birth to three big grandsons for them, which alsopletely reversed her status within the household.


    For the women of that era, to be able to bear children was the greatest blessing.


    Zhou Nan also felt that her suffering had turned into joy. Relying on these three sons, there would only be endless blessings for her to enjoy in the future.


    What��s more, heaven always favored her, as she became pregnant with twins again.


    But it was also at this time that her good luck seemed to run out all at once.


    Her inws were continuously targeted by others. Her grandfather-inw visibly grew older and older by the day. Her parents-inw also wore worried frowns all day long.


    Rumors spread that the An family could not hold on any longer. Servants were dismissed, family businesses were donatedpletely, yet there were still people who kepting to cause trouble.


    In order for her to nurture the twins in her belly properly, Zhou Nan was sent back to the Zhou family home.


    But the unease in her heart still affected her body. She was absent-minded all day, looking very distressed.


    Finally, one morning, she identally tripped and fell. At eight months pregnant, the impact caused her to go into prematurebor, giving birth to a pair of twins.


    It was frightening but safe in the end. She was still quite fortunate.


    Her mother and grandmother had both given birth to twins before, so it was not umon for her.


    Fortunately, although the An family��s big house was gone, and their fortune worth tens of thousands had beenpletely dispersed, everyone in the family was still around. A thin camel is still bigger than a horse. Her father-inw was a war hero. Now retired, he still had a pension. Her husband became a university president, which was also a very good job.


    She was originally a girl from a farming family. Doing housework was not difficult for her at all. Without servants, she simply picked up the tasks she used to do every day again.


    Perhaps because the dragon and phoenix twins were born during the most difficult time for the family, and conditions were also very harsh, she always felt that the two children were aggrieved. In addition, since they were the youngest in the family, she inevitably favored them a little more.


    Especially her daughter. She was born very thin, clearly suffering from malnutrition.


    Plus she had injured her own body this time, and probably would have difficulty conceiving again in the future. This was likely their one and only daughter, which also made her and An Jingzhi cherish her even more, inevitably spoiling her, catering to her every wish since she was young.


    Who would have expected this nted the seeds of disaster.


    Her younger daughter was excessively mischievous and unruly, offending all four brothers. Even her twin brother, the fourth child, disliked her. Later it even escted into violence.


    It is said that the child who cries gets fed. The more troublesome a child is for the parents, the more they will be doted on. An MeiYun was exactly that kind of situation.


    Even clearly knowing that she was the one stirring up trouble sometimes, they still could not bear to reprimand her when seeing her pitiful appearance after being punished.


    As for the fights between the children, parents would always think that it��s normal for kids in any family to have conflicts. When they grew older and became sensible, they would understand the deepest kinship between siblings.


    This was indeed how things turned out as the parents expected. As An MeiYun grew into a youngdy, she did be sensible and well-behaved.


    But her older brothers who were older did not be sensible at all. And the third brother still held a grudge against his sister over things from when they were young. This gave the couple a big headache.


    Although days were full of chaos, with family safe and sound, they could still be considered happy.


    Until one day, they suddenly learned that their cherished daughter, whom they had doted on excessively, was not their biological child. Instead, she had been maliciously switched at birth. Their poor biological daughter was actually at another family, suffering all kinds of mistreatments.


    When Zhou Nan heard this news from An Jingzhi, she waspletely dumbfounded. Her first reaction was that it was impossible.


    But he said the person who provided the news was his own elder brother. And that they had found the girl from the Zhou family looked almost exactly like her.


    It did not take long to investigate the truth. The next two days were spent trying toe to terms with the facts and prepare to ept this reality.


    Since An MeiYun still relied on them to live, it was not difficult to find out what she had done.


    It was just that they did not dare to believe it. They were unwilling to believe it, preferring to deceive themselves.


    Zhou Nan did not even dare to meet that girl. She let An JingZhi and her fourth son go bring the girl back.


    She said she stayed home to prepare to wee her back, but in reality her heart was trembling the whole time until this moment, still wishing desperately for all of this to be false.


    Because when she raised her head to look at the daughter she had raised with her own hands, she really could not ept the fact that she was not her biological child.


    When she saw that face which indeed resembled her own, as well as that emaciated body with her own eyes, Zhou Nan had to admit that in that moment she hated them. She hated the couple who had exchanged her child and wished she could hack them into mincemeat. She also hated that she could not send An MeiYun back to return her to them.


    But every time she faced the child she had raised, she still could not bear to be ruthless. So she desperately pretended to be muddled, telling herself that the child was innocent. She was still little at that time and it wasn��t that she was willing to be swapped.


    She was willing topensate her biological daughter with everything, also because of that guilt, which made her constantly waver and be conflicted between the two children, even thinking that she could have it both ways.


    It wasn��t just her. An JingZhi thought this way too. It hurt whichever hand you pricked.


    But they overlooked the principle that one cannot have the best of both worlds.


    The contradictions eventually reached an extent that could not be ignored. They finally steeled their hearts and made a choice.


    But in that short time it was already toote.


    One was hurt and moved to her grandmother��s ce. Another was rushing to marry herself out, but ended up falling into an abyss of eternal damnation.


    No one could understand their pain. In others�� eyes, it even seemed like they deserved it.


    Indeed, they did deserve it.


    If they had been firmer in making a choice in the first ce, perhaps the tragic oue of one dead and one injured could have been avoided. This was also Zhou Nan and An JingZhi��s biggest regret.


    Knowing that Pei Jing and Pei Jing��s marriage was very sudden, they could guess that there were still things they did not know behind this marriage.


    But from their standpoint, they no longer had the qualifications to question it.


    Fortunately, the oue of this marriage was not bad. Pei Jing was a responsible man, and KnowXia also found lifelong reliance.


    The deceased should always give way to the living. Sometimes, the truth was no longer so important, but the survivors were what they should cherish.


    This was what An JingZhi told her, it was also a reality that she had to ept.


    So for the rest of her years, she did her best to make up to KnowXia, even though she did not feel like she needed it anymore.


    She could feel her daughter��s estrangement, but all this was created by her own doing, without even any right toin.


    An JingZhi also said that constant dripping can prate stone, and blood ties of kinship cannot be severed. It was their original mistake. No matter whether she was willing to eptpensation, they must do it, even if it was just tofort themselves, it would still be better than regretting not having a chance to make up when it was toote in the future.


    Luckily, the result was beautiful.


    Although they did not achieve the desired intimacy between mother and daughter, at the very least they made it to when she was willing to open her heart.


    For the rest of her life this was good enough. Although not intimate, they were also not estranged. She did her best, and KnowXia no longer resisted.


    An JingZhi passed away several years after Zhou Nan.


    Lying in his sickbed, looking back on his life, there were regrets, and there was contentment.


    But overall,pared to most people, he was still quite fortunate and happy.


    The only thing he couldn��t let go of was his disobedient third son.


    What do young people nowadays call it?


    Oh right, staying single, open-minded thinking.


    In the present society, being single has be the mainstream. Those young people are shouting about not marrying or having children all day, and the younger generation at home even praises him for being at the forefront of society...


    An JingZhi was very dissatisfied with this. If everyone in the world thought like this, wouldn''t mankind be extinct?


    It was said and scolded, but this boy was impervious to counsel or scorn. His grandmother coerced him with death before she passed away, and he did bring a woman home.


    At that time he was already forty, they didn''t care about anything else, they just wanted a woman to hurry up and get married and have a child, at least to settle one thing before it was toote to have children.


    Who would have thought that this boy only pretended to agree but actually disobeyed. After the grandmother closed her eyes, they realized that the woman was specially brought by him to perform in order to reassure the grandmother before she passed away. They were so angry they almost died.


    Since then, the couple knew they couldn''t control this child anymore, so they simply didn''t interfere anymore. They could only teach the other younger generation to respect and take care of Third Uncle San Bo, so that he wouldn''t regret it when he got old and lonelyter.


    But this world, it changed too fast, making him feel deeply that he couldn''t keep up with the times.


    Their famous Dr. An didn''t even reach 60 years old before he retired early and traveled around the world by himself.


    Compared to his other married children, he was indeed the most free and unrestrained, without constraints. At least he didn''t shortchange himself living in this world for a lifetime.


    As for the future, he couldn''t control it anymore. Right now he himself was lying in bed waiting for someone toe back so he could close his eyes in peace.


    He also opened up. People live one lifetime, just be happy and carefree, if you think it''s not good, there are more people worse off than you.


    Without even talking about others, Pei Yong that bastard passed away even earlier. Huang Lian''s life was even more miserable, he never had a few good days in his life. His son finally matured, but his daughter started acting up again.


    It was said that she married a man with two children from his second marriage, but ran away with someone again after a few years. She came back after running away for less than two years...


    Fortunately the social trends became more and more open, if it was like the situation years ago, a whole family would have been implicated by her.


    Even a strong woman like Wang Yue had a stroke from anger, which showed how infuriating she was.


    Wang Yue also never lowered her head in her life. She almost got eaten by maggots when she died.


    When Pei JianGuo was away on a business trip, his daughter-inw did something outrageous. Fortunately Pei JianGuo came back early.


    But if you really think about it, she deserved it. When she was young she even bullied her daughter-inw, so of course she would get retribution when she was old.


    Pei JianGuo also knew about these matters. Even though their days had be like this, he didn''t get a divorce. Later he hired a caregiver to take care of the olddy, and didn''t let Liu Chunhua get involved anymore.


    An JingZhi also didn''t know what was going on with himself, suddenly remembering so many things.


    Maybe because his time of death was approaching, so he started having random thoughts.


    Faintly, noises of arguing came from outside, it seemed like the children had all gathered.


    An JingZhi squinted, but couldn''t see clearly. It was all a blur.


    In the nkness of his mind, it seemed like he returned to that cold winter.


    Someone was talking to him, saying Zhou Nan had given premature birth to boy and girl twins, but it wasn''t time yet.


    That''s right, this foolish woman tripped and fell, causing herself to go into prematurebor.


    Someone wanted to switch his children, he had to hurry over to stop it...


    Blurrily, he saw Zhi Xia''s face.


    His youngest daughter was no longer young either, but she maintained herself well and was still so beautiful.


    He was thinking, if...if he could live life again...


    He definitely wouldn''t let her be switched away, and she wouldn''t have so much sorrow left.


    Even if it was back to that autumn when she first returned, they would have firmly chosen her, and wouldn''t have left a lifetime of regret that could no longer be repaired...


    "Dad is gone..."


    Zhi Xia removed her hand from underneath An JingZhi''s nose and calmly announced this news.


    Her life this time around, it could be said she didn''t live in vain.


    All the wishes from her previous life were fulfilled in this life.


    Although her biological parents didn''t love her as much as she had imagined, there were also many beautiful and unexpected surprises in her life that she had never thought of before, for example...


    Zhi Xia looked back, and just happened to look into Pei Jing''s no longer young eyes, and the several children behind him.


    In a year or two Pei Jing would retire. The children had all grown up, each having their own careers and pursuits, shining brightly in their own worlds.


    They were all outside of her expectations, yet appeared beautifully, leaving no more regrets in her life or irreparable rifts...


    Zhi Xia was also busy arranging things for thepany. The children didn''t go into business, so if she wanted to retire she could only hand over thepany to professional managers to run it.


    The rest of their lives, they wanted to fulfill the promises of their youth to travel around and see the great rivers and mountains of their mothend.


    Speaking of this, she was quite envious of Third Brother. Able to pick up and put down things easily, leaving as soon as he said he would.


    Second Brother finally came back in recent years, having achieved sess and reputation, not failing the efforts of all these years.


    Eldest Brother was also about to retire. Speaking of Eldest Brother, there was an especially amusing incident. A few years ago when he bought a house, Big Sister discovered it. At that time in the 90s when real estate was developing rapidly, housing prices here had risen to 5-6 million.


    Because of this, Big Sister often sighed with regret, regretting missing the chance to get rich suddenly, and almost regretting herself sick.


    Later when tidying up one day, she discovered the property ownership certificate hidden away in a very secretive drawer, only then finding out how stupid she had been.


    At that time, she was excited yet angry, that kind of expression was simply unimaginable.


    Fortunately she didn''t make a scene. She was probably more excited than angry.


    Now everyone was older in age, and lived together, so running into each other when going out was extremely rare harmony.


    It''s said there is no regret medicine in life, yet she was more fortunate than everyone. Heaven gave her the chance to relive one lifetime, fulfilling all the hopes from her previous life, and also gaining the love of many people.


    ...


    [End of Book]


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