But it must not increase too much.
Otherwise, we won’t be able to complete the task.
"Then you guys go first, we will follow soon."
Zhao Minghua didn’t expect Brother Zhu Si to refuse outright.
But upon reflection, it’s understandable. After all, he also has work to do, and Master Zhou Qi is very fiery-tempered, not everyone can handle it.
"Mr. Zhao, aren’t you making it difficult for us?" Brother Zhu Si said unhappily, "Do you know that the further north you go in the Northern Desert, the more likely you are to encounter danger?"
This is something Zhao Minghua didn’t really know.
"Most people in the Northern Desert are exiles, and the area borders neighboring countries. Now and again, there are spies mixed in, among fish and dragons, all sorts abound." Brother Zhu Si said, "Those who are after fame or profit are all desperadoes. Our caravan can travel smoothly because of the caravan’s flag—offend us and you won’t get away unscathed. But if you’re merely passing through with one or two carriages, you’d directly become their feast."
"Is there no law here?"
"Heaven is high and the Emperor is far—do those already barefoot fear wearing shoes?"
This is a place even the law can’t control, where might makes right.
"How about this: rest for one more day, and I’ll cover today’s expenses." Zhao Minghua finally had to compromise, "I’ll explain to Master Zhou Qi when we return."
"With Mr. Zhao’s assurance, I feel at ease." Who wouldn’t want the journey to be a bit slower and relaxed? But as workmen, what qualification do we have to suggest leisure? "Then following Mr. Zhao’s instructions, we will rest at the post station tomorrow and set off at dawn the day after, is that agreed?"
"Okay, thank you for your trouble."
Chun Nuan felt uneasy knowing Zhao Minghua delayed the journey for her alone.
"You’re too kind, always considering others without regard for yourself." Zhao Minghua was quite distressed for her, "Why not resolve major issues with minimal cost? Sharpening the axe will not delay the work of chopping wood. If you care for your health, we can travel subsequently, and when we reach the Northern Desert looking more spirited, your family will be less worried."
It seems to make sense.
"Actually, I’m a bit anxious for myself."
Zhao Minghua shifted to speak about his own concerns.
Why?
"The ugly bride must meet the parents; the ugly groom must meet the father-in-law and brother-in-law." Zhao Minghua was genuinely a bit timid, "I’m from a small town and lack abilities. Would I be rejected?"
Even the once impressive Zhao Minghua has moments of cowardice, eh?
Chun Nuan couldn’t help laughing.
"My father and brother aren’t tigers, what are you afraid of?"
"Afraid I might not meet their expectations."
Zhao Minghua indeed felt his status slightly lacking.
"You’re the one I chose myself. Father and brother trust my judgment. Don’t worry, they aren’t harsh people, they are easy to get along with." Chun Nuan smiled, "You don’t need to be nervous; just do what you need to do. Perhaps they’ll even like you."
At least he accompanied her to the Northern Desert, taking exceptional care along the way, sparing her much suffering.
Leaving herself in his hands, surely Father and Brother could feel assured too.
"I don’t really know what Father-in-law and Brother-in-law like; I brought some gifts, not sure if they’ll suit their tastes."
"Who are you calling Father-in-law and Brother-in-law?"
Chun Nuan blushed. Is this person moving a bit fast by already changing the terms?
"Being engaged, it’s appropriate to call them that." Zhao Minghua smiled slightly, "They’re in the Northern Desert and may not return for our wedding, so it’s not too early to use these terms."
"Such thick skin you have."
How to even describe this man?
More and more shameless indeed.
"Thick skin, hearty meal." Zhao Minghua reached out his hand, "Do you still need me to warm you up with my hand?"
"No no, I don’t."
Chun Nuan quickly refused, "I slept warmly last night, unexpected that the station’s quilts can provide two blankets, warm and cozy. I feel much better today."
"That’s good, have a little nourishing soup later, nourish your body and we can depart tomorrow without haste."
Where would nourishing soup come from?
Only when having lunch did Chun Nuan realize that last night’s quilt was arranged by Zhao Minghua, paying the innkeeper for an extra one; the nourishing soup also prepared by a cook after Zhao Minghua separately gave Silver, who slaughtered their own old hen to stew.
Whether with food or use, Zhao Minghua arranged everything perfectly for Chun Nuan.
How could such a person not fill Chun Nuan with warmth?