freenovelworld Chapter 65 Family Heirloom
Chapter 65 Family Heirloom
As the village chief's wife gently took his hand, and the two sat facing each other, discussing the matter in hushed tones, her eyes shone with tenderness and determination. She expressed her intention to give her precious dowry—a glittering gold bracelet—to her nephew's wife. However, upon hearing this, the village chief's face immediately showed a hint of heartache. He quickly reached out and grabbed his wife's arm, urgently dissuading her, "My dear wife, that's your only dowry! Not only that, it's also a family heirloom. Wouldn't it be better to keep it for our future daughter-in-law? Why give it to an outsider?"
Hearing her husband's words, the village chief's wife smiled gently, a smile as radiant and beautiful as a spring flower. She patted the village chief's hand softly and said, "My dear, think about it, how hard it has been for my nephew! He lost both his parents at a young age and grew up alone with us. Now he's finally grown up and found a good man with whom he can live a stable life. As his aunt, I'm truly happy for him, so I thought I'd give them a gift to express my heartfelt wishes."
After listening quietly to his wife's words, the village chief's brows relaxed slightly, and he nodded thoughtfully. He slowly said, "Hmm, you're right. My nephew has indeed grown up around us all this time. Although we're not related by blood, we're closer than blood relatives. As his elders, we should send him some gifts to express our blessings and care. Alright, since you've made up your mind, I won't stop you anymore."
Hearing that the village chief had agreed to her idea, his wife was overjoyed. Like a cheerful little bird, she walked briskly into the living room. There, her nephew's wife, Fatty, was sitting on the sofa, fidgeting nervously with the hem of her clothes. The village chief's wife went over, affectionately took Fatty's chubby little hand, and carefully placed the exquisite gold bracelet on her wrist. Then, she looked at Fatty with loving and caring eyes and earnestly instructed her, "Child, you must live a good life with your nephew from now on. Don't be afraid if you encounter any difficulties; just come to your aunt for help. Consider this bracelet a small token of your aunt's affection for you two. I hope your life will be prosperous and sweet."
"Auntie, look at this gift! It's far too precious for me to accept! Absolutely not!" the chubby girl said anxiously, reaching for the gleaming gold bracelet on her wrist. However, just as she was about to remove the bracelet, the village chief's wife swiftly stopped her.
The village chief's wife smiled broadly and said warmly, "Oh, my dear daughter, what are you saying? We're so lucky to have met; we felt so close the moment we met. This little gift is nothing at all. Just accept it. From now on, we're family. Come visit us often, let's chat and keep in touch!"
Hearing the village chief's wife's sincere and warm words, the chubby girl's previously tense face immediately broke into a bright smile, her eyes sparkling with joy. She quickly nodded and replied, "Alright then, Auntie, since you've said so, I won't refuse anymore. Thank you so much! I'll definitely come to visit you and Uncle often in the future." After saying this, the chubby girl happily stroked the bracelet on her wrist, as if she could feel the deep care and affection from the village chief's wife.
Immediately afterward, the village chief, who had always had a stern face and a serious expression, slowly walked forward. He bent down slightly and carefully took out a jar wrapped tightly in red cloth from behind him. He gently placed it on the table, then slowly peeled off the red cloth, and a rich, mellow aroma of wine instantly filled the air.
The village chief straightened up, his face still expressionless, but a subtle smile and sincerity flickered in his eyes: "This is a jar of aged wine that I've treasured for many years! I've brought it out today as a congratulatory gift for the newlyweds, wishing you a long and happy life together." With that, he waved to the crowd and said loudly, "Alright, now let's raise our glasses together, drink heartily, and share this joyous moment!"
"Okay, cheers!" everyone answered in unison.
Drinking without snacks is just not the best way to enjoy it! And since it's only recently the New Year, every household still has plenty of food left over. Our village chief's family is no exception; his wife is an exceptional cook! She put on her apron, went into the kitchen, and in less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, she magically produced several delicious dishes.
The first thing that catches the eye is a plate of lotus root sandwiches, deep-fried to a golden brown, crispy perfection, and exuding a wonderful aroma. Each sandwich is filled with tender, juicy meat, and the deep-frying process makes the outer layer incredibly crispy and delicious, making it impossible not to enjoy it bite after bite. Next to be served are double-fried ribbonfish pieces, their color enticing and their aroma rich with fish flavor. One bite reveals a crispy exterior and tender interior, with the freshness of the fish instantly bursting in your mouth. The double-fried peanuts are also plump and incredibly crunchy, making them an excellent choice as a snack or a perfect accompaniment to drinks.
Besides these fried foods, there were several refreshing and delicious dishes. The cold beef salad was thinly sliced and evenly topped with a special sauce and minced garlic, offering a spicy and satisfying flavor with a satisfying chewiness; the stir-fried potato shreds were distinct and crisp, with a subtle scallion aroma; and finally, the carefully sliced and neatly arranged pork skin jelly, crystal clear like crystal, melted in your mouth, its abundance of collagen providing a truly satisfying experience. This table of colorful, fragrant, and delicious dishes was simply mouthwatering, and paired with fine wine, it was truly a great pleasure in life!
The chubby girl sat at the table, her body a little stiff. Her eyes kept glancing at the abundant dishes on the table, but she remained too shy to reach for them. Just then, the village chief's wife noticed the girl's awkwardness. With a warm smile, she took the initiative to place a piece of fragrant braised beef in the girl's bowl with her chopsticks, saying enthusiastically, "Niece-in-law, don't be shy, eat more of these dishes! Make yourself at home here, eat whatever you like, don't feel embarrassed!"
Hearing this, the chubby girl felt a warmth in her heart and quickly nodded in response, "Yes, thank you, Auntie. Please sit down and eat with us."
The village chief's wife smiled and waved her hand, saying, "You two eat first. I have to go to town to pick up your little brothers so you can eat together." As she spoke, she untied the apron tied around her waist, her movements quick and nimble.
The chubby girl quickly said, "Okay, Auntie, please take care on your way!"
After the village chief's wife left, the village chief warmly greeted everyone: "Come on, everyone, don't just stand there! Start eating and drinking! But remember to eat more and drink less!"
Upon hearing this, the village chief's nephew felt a sense of doubt and asked curiously, "Uncle, is my brother going to school in town?"
The village chief waved his hand and replied, "That's not true. That kid didn't study hard, so I sent him to work as an apprentice at a restaurant to earn money."
“My brother is still so young, how can you bear to let him go to work?” the village chief’s nephew replied with a pained expression.
"We can't just let him stay at home doing nothing all day, can we? It would be good for him to learn a trade," the village chief sighed helplessly.
At this point, the chubby girl shared her opinion: "What skills can an apprentice learn? It's just earning some pocket money and killing time. I think it's better to let him work in my shop. He's young, and I can take care of him. I can let him do some things he can manage, like making drinks or cleaning."
The village chief pondered for a moment and thought the chubby girl's suggestion was excellent. He then turned to his nephew and asked, "What do you think? If it's alright, after we finish eating, you can take your brother to the chubby girl's shop to have a look." The village chief's nephew readily agreed, "Okay."
In the bustling marketplace, a little boy attracted everyone's attention. He was about twelve or thirteen years old, with delicate features and a beautiful, sculpted face. His hair was styled into two cute buns, tied with red ribbons, which swayed gently with his movements. His bright, large eyes sparkled like stars, radiating intelligence and liveliness. He wore a navy blue robe embroidered with exquisite patterns, and a purple belt around his waist, making him appear even more spirited.
"Mom, why did you come to pick me up? Are you taking me to visit relatives?" the boy asked with a smile.
The village chief's wife laughed heartily, "Our relatives have come to our house! It's your brother Tianqi who's back from Beijing, and he brought his girlfriend with him. When you see her, be sure to call her 'sister-in-law'!"
"Is it that beautiful, fairy-like Sister Chestnut?" the boy asked, looking up at his mother with a puzzled expression.
The village chief's wife quickly put her finger to her lips in a shushing gesture, and then reminded him,
"Miss Chestnut and your Brother Tianqi had a deep but unfulfilled love and have already broken up. This time it's Miss Sweetie who's here. Don't say anything out of line when you see her."
"Oh, I see." The boy nodded, seemingly understanding.
When the mother and daughter returned home, the village chief's nephew and the chubby girl quickly stood up to greet them.
"Auntie, brother, you're back!"
The village chief's wife gave her son a look, and the boy immediately understood, then politely replied, "Hello, sister-in-law!"
"Hey little one, what's your name?" the chubby girl asked with a smile as she walked over.
"My name is Tianshuo. It's only one character different from my brother's name," the boy replied earnestly.
"How about your sister-in-law takes you to the city?" the chubby girl asked gently with a smile.
"But I still have a job, and my boss usually doesn't allow me to take time off or ask for leave," the boy quickly replied.
At this moment, the village chief's nephew came over and explained, "Your sister-in-law has opened a shop in the city and wants you to come and help out. Don't worry, you'll get paid double! Want to come along?"
The boy jumped for joy upon hearing this, exclaiming, "Great!"
Seeing their son's happy face, the village chief and his wife smiled at each other.
"Eat first, then we can discuss work!" the village chief's wife said with a smile. "Otherwise, the food will get cold."
"Okay!" everyone responded in unison.
The chubby girl was on a diet, so she only ate some lotus root slices and shredded potatoes. She didn't dare to eat much meat, for fear of gaining too much weight.
"Sister-in-law, why aren't you eating beef and fish? Don't you like them?" the boy asked, puzzled.
The chubby girl smiled slightly and explained, "I'm still on a diet. I used to be too fat and didn't look good enough for your big brother. Now I'm going to lose weight so I can have a good figure to wear in my wedding dress and be a beautiful bride for your brother!"
"Hmm, that makes sense. But sister-in-law isn't fat, so eat and drink as you please, don't be too hard on yourself." As the boy spoke, he added a lot of beef and ribbonfish pieces to his sister-in-law's bowl.
"Okay, thank you, little brother." The chubby girl felt embarrassed to refuse and could only express her gratitude politely.
After the meal, the village chief went to apply for his son's resignation and settle his wages. His wife packed a bundle of clothes and shoes for him, then gave him some worried instructions.
"Tianshuo, listen to your brother and sister-in-law when you get outside. There are lots of cars and people outside, so don't wander around."
The boy nodded obediently, "Okay, Mom. Thank you for your concern!"
The village chief's wife continued to instruct, "Even if you miss us, you're not allowed to come back without permission. When you go out, make sure to stay close to your brother and sister-in-law. Also, eat well, sleep well, and don't kick off the covers at night, or you'll catch a cold!"
"I understand, Mom. I'm not a three-year-old anymore. I understand these things." The boy nodded hurriedly in agreement.
"Auntie, we're leaving! Please stay home and take care of yourself!" the village chief's nephew replied, then helped his younger brother onto the carriage, and helped the chubby girl onto the carriage as well, giving her some instructions.
"Hold on tight, both of you! Let's go!"
Immediately, the village chief's nephew drove off, while the village chief's wife waved goodbye to them from behind.
In the city, Su Yuning and the young master were eating, drinking, chatting and laughing together, but unfortunately they were seen by Ye Beichen's guards. So he found a brush, ink, paper and inkstone on a nearby seat, quickly drew a painting, and then took the painting back to Ni Chang Pavilion.
Then, Ye Beichen's guards sent the scroll to the Lord of the Northern Desert by carrier pigeon.
Upon receiving the painting, Ye Beichen was shocked to find Su Yuning chatting and laughing with others. He was furious and ordered his men to bring Su Yuning back to him. His guards dared not disobey and rushed to the capital. After finding Su Yuning, they did not explain and simply pulled her into a carriage to take her back to Mobei.
Back in the northern desert, Su Yuning shivered from the cold. She asked Ye Beichen in confusion,
"Beichen, what exactly do you want? Why did you call me here?"
Ye Beichen threw the painting in front of her with a dark face. Su Yuning was speechless. "What you see is not what you think. He and I are just ordinary friends."
"I don't want to hear it!" Ye Beichen retorted angrily, then carried her back to his place in a princess carry. After a night, Ye Beichen finally believed her reply, because Su Yuning, who was innocent before, was now his wife in name and in fact.