Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Long-awaited_1 Chapter 136: Chapter 136: Long-awaited_1 When Lin Yue and her group arrived at Zhao Xinglin’s home, his third aunt was coincidentally out shopping, leaving Zhao Xinglin and his wife to entertain them.
Zhao Xinglin’s wife, Mrs. Han, was a delicate and gentle woman who seemed to be well-read due to her family background; she exuded an elegant air, quite unlike the local rural women. No wonder Zhao Xinglin treasured her like a precious jewel. Lin Yue, having dealt with Zhao Xinglin for a long time, often saw him making every effort to procure delicious foods for his wife, of course, another significant reason was the child in her womb.
Zhao Xinglin, approaching thirty years of age, already had two daughters but not a single son. The ancients valued passing on the family lineage; while he adored his daughters, having had several already, he yearned for a son. Now that the doctor had determined the child in his wife’s belly was a boy, Zhao Xinglin wished he could worship his wife like an ancestor. It wouldn’t be long before he, Zhao Xinglin, would have a son.
Mrs. Han had never met Lin Yue before, but hearing much about her from her husband, she felt quite fond of her cousin-in-law. Moreover, having frequently enjoyed the culinary gifts from Lin Yue, she was determined to be a gracious host this visit, bustling with tea and snacks. Zhao Xinglin followed closely behind Mrs. Han, carefully protecting, fearful that something might happen to his son.
“Wife, be careful. With such a big belly, you should rest well and avoid walking around. Cousin isn’t a stranger; she will understand,” he cautioned.
“Yes, sister-in-law, please rest. We’re not strangers, and there’s no need to be so polite. I actually feel a bit embarrassed by it all,” Lin Yue said, unable to accept such attentive hospitality from a pregnant woman.
“It’s fine. This one in my belly is sturdy and sure to be big. The doctor advised me to walk around when I can to make childbirth easier. Besides, cousin, it’s not often you come over to our house; I can’t neglect my duties as a host.” Mrs. Han spoke and caressed her belly, glowing with maternal warmth.
“If sister-in-law doesn’t mind, I can visit more often in the future. Right now, you shouldn’t busy yourself. I made some food this morning, including a soup from wild pheasant and tea tree mushrooms that I simmered on low heat for an hour. It’s incredibly flavorful and still warm, perfect for eating now. Try it and see what you think of my cooking,” Lin Yue said, placing a small clay pot she’d been carrying onto the table. Upon opening the lid, a rich aroma wafted out, making one’s mouth water.
“I’ve been enjoying the food you’ve sent over these past days. Your culinary skills are undoubtedly top-notch; just the smell alone makes me drool,” she assured.
Mrs. Han was initially a bit sick of chicken soup upon hearing that Lin Yue had brought some, as her third aunt-in-law and Zhao Xinglin had been preparing it frequently to nourish her, to the point that the mere words ‘chicken soup’ almost made her nauseous. However, not wanting to brush off Lin Yue’s kindness, as she’d made it early in the morning and brought it over with heartfelt sincerity, she didn’t show any signs of distaste. But when Lin Yue lifted the lid and the smell spread, Mrs. Han was captivated and her words carried genuine appreciation.
Zhao Xinglin had also been worried these days because Mrs. Han refused to drink any more nutritional soups, claiming she was fed up and felt like vomiting at just the sight of them. Yet, he knew the child inside her needed the nutrients, and this was his eagerly anticipated precious son. Seeing his wife’s rare appetite, Zhao Xinglin quickly fetched bowl and chopsticks from the kitchen to serve her a bowl of the chicken soup.