Chapter 283 - 275: Every Family Has Its Troubles
Chapter 283: Chapter 275: Every Family Has Its Troubles
"Besides, the village chief and his wife are the only two living in this house. It’s awfully quiet. The landlord rented this place to us specifically to liven things up for their family. Plus, the house is great. We like living here."
Shu Gen’s face burned hot, as if on fire. Even an outsider knew that the elderly needed the company of their children and grandchildren. Yet here he was, their son, and he couldn’t do a thing.
Mrs. Li didn’t care what her husband’s expression was. It was as if she couldn’t even see him.
"A Wu, our house is much bigger than this place. Besides, it’s not far from Zhi’s home, and it’s even closer to the fields. It would definitely be more convenient to stay with us than here. Quickly pack your things and come with me."
A Wu shook his head. "I appreciate your kind offer, but there’s no need to say any more. My mind is made up, and I won’t change it."
When Mrs. Li’s expression darkened, Li Wu quickly interjected, "Miss Bai just brought me some potatoes and rice. Let me get some for Big Brother and you to take back." He then turned and went inside.
Hearing there was something to be had, the dark look on Mrs. Li’s face finally softened a bit. Her gaze shifted to the village chief. "Father, don’t go wasting this rent money. Yuanming’s marriage will be arranged soon, and who knows how much that will cost. If we’re short, you’ll have to help make up the difference."
The village chief’s gaze turned icy. He didn’t want to waste another breath on her. ’This woman... The only time she looks me in the eye is when she wants money. If we pass in the village, she won’t even call me ’Father’.’
The village chief said nothing. He shot his son, Shu Gen, a cool glance before turning and going inside.
Shu Gen hung his head, not daring to meet his father’s eyes, looking utterly spineless.
"Hey! I’m not finished talking!" Mrs. Li started to go after him to continue nagging, but Shu Gen, in a sudden show of courage, grabbed her arm.
Mrs. Li spun around and glared at him. "What do you think you’re doing?"
Wang Shugen quickly let go, forcing a placating smile. "It’s getting dark, isn’t it? Yuanming is waiting for us at home for dinner. Let’s not keep on about this. We can bring it up again after Yuanming’s engagement is settled."
Mrs. Li glanced at the sky. It was indeed getting late. If they returned too late, Yuanming would complain.
Just then, A Wu came out carrying a cloth bag and a small basket. The bag held some white rice, and the basket was filled to the brim with potatoes. In truth, there were only a few, but they were so large that they filled the entire basket.
"We’re humble folk and don’t have much to offer. Miss Bai gave this to me, so I’ve set some aside for you. Please don’t mind the humble gift."
How could Mrs. Li possibly mind? She was fond of anything she didn’t have to pay for.
As she took the items, A Wu added, "Miss Bai said to eat these potatoes while they’re fresh. Don’t eat them if they’ve sprouted or turned green—they’ll be poisonous."
Mrs. Li had already heard about this; the news had spread all over the village. She smiled and nodded. "Alright, I know. You should get inside and eat. I’ll bring the bag and basket back another day."
Only after Mrs. Li and Wang Shugen were completely out of sight did A Wu let out a long sigh and head back inside.
Every family has its own troubles!!
Back at the table, the village chief had an awkward expression on his face. "Sorry you had to witness that."
A Wu rushed to say, "Not at all, not at all. Mrs. Li was mindful of appearances, at least. We’re already very grateful." ’Compared to that mother-in-law and daughter-in-law from the Bai Family, she did save some face.’
The village chief sighed, not saying anything more. "Let’s eat."