Whether Wang Fengmei and Zhao Mingfang could stir up a storm or not had nothing to do with Feng Qingxue. Even if Zhengguo and his siblings heard about Zhao Yide being executed and Zhao Mingfang’s leg being broken, they would likely have no intention of visiting.
Sorry, they simply don’t know which way Wang Fengmei’s household leans.
In the afternoon, Chen Xueniang returned home with two baskets of fresh fruits and vegetables, one of which she brought to Cheng Baoguo’s house.
The Lu Family never sold the produce from their reserved land. They would dry out any leftovers, ensuring there was plenty to eat all year round. In contrast, most families in the Wanglou Brigade planted ginger, garlic, and potatoes in their reserved land. After the harvest, they would keep enough for themselves and sell the surplus to the distribution and supply cooperative, which would then transport them to the city. This was a system of unified purchase and sales.
"Look at this, another basket of vegetables. We can save on buying groceries and even reduce our grain consumption at home. People often say that my in-laws show too much affection towards Xibao, even though he’s not their biological child. But isn’t their love for him the same as if he was? Dont they always think about him whenever there’s food?" said Cuilan to Chen Xueniang.
Chen Xueniang smiled and said, "In this world, It’s not about whether a child is biological or not. What truly matters is love."
What kind of relationship did she have with Qingxue before? They started talking while waiting in line to buy grain, and as their relationship progressed, Qingxue poured her heart out to her. Having lived in a brothel for many years, she knew how to distinguish between genuine and fake intentions.
Feng Qingxue truly had no qualms about her past.
Although some neighbors accepted her reformed self, they were still uncomfortable with her past. They warned their young wives and daughters not to associate with her for fear of tarnishing their reputation or adopting influences from the brothel life.
More than a decade after the establishment of new China, other than Cuilan, Chen Xueniang didn’t have a single friend.
In fact, one could say that before, Cuilan’s interaction with Chen Xueniang was merely courteous nodding.
Upon hearing Chen Xueniang’s words, Cuilan nodded and fully agreed, saying, "You’re right. Even biological children can be ungrateful. What does it matter if they are biological or not?"
"Alright, I’ve delivered the items and returned your bike. I’m going home now," said Chen Xueniang.
"I’ll walk you home."
Cuilan escorted Chen Xueniang past the back gate to her front door, a few steps away. They ran into Jinrui who greeted, "Comrades Cuilan and Chen Xueniang, where are you off to?"
"We’re not going anywhere. I’m just escorting Xueniang home," Cuilan replied with a smile.
Jinrui gave a grunt of acknowledgment before telling Chen Xueniang, "You have to start work tomorrow. Please don’t be late, Comrade Chen."
"Don’t worry, director. Of course, I value my job," Chen Xueniang responded casually.
After seeing Chen Xueniang into her home, Cuilan turned back to Jinrui and asked, "Old Zheng, do you know when Feihong and Yulan are planning to hold their wedding ceremony? Will it be held in the textile factory’s cafeteria? My niece asked me to send word as soon as the date is set. After all, my daughter and I are the real matchmakers for the young couple."
Jinrui shook his head, "I haven’t heard anything about a date yet. They are just dating for now. I assure you, we’ll inform you the moment we get any news."
Feihong was preparing to send three rounds of bridal gifts and a loud engagement announcement, not wanting to shortchange Yulan even though her family didn’t bother about these things. At the same time, he had people spruce up his new house. In about a month or two, he should be able to bring his beauty home. It was indeed commendable.
Upon hearing Jinrui’s response, Cuilan didn’t press for further details. But a few days later, Chen Xueniang came to invite her to visit Xibao.
"Shouldn’t they be busy with farming at this time?" Cuilan asked.
"Exactly, which is why we should go and help out. Even if we can only help by looking after the child, cooking some meals, or washing some clothes!"