Chapter 41 - 50

Transmigrated as the Evil Stepmother, I Bully the Whole Family, Yay!

Chapter 41

When Nan Sheng arrived home, her son was cleaning shrimp, her mother-in-law was playing with her daughter, and her father-in-law was fixing a door in the storage room next to the woodshed.

Both children stood up at the same time and called out, "Mom's back!"

Nan Sheng smiled and praised, "You're so capable—you caught so many shrimp!"

Siqi quickly added, "And a fish too!"

Her older brother said they hadn't left the net in the water for long today, but if they went back to check it in a couple of days, they'd bring back even more. Mom would surely be even happier then!

The elderly couple overheard the conversation between the mother and children. They already knew Siqi adored her stepmother, but now that even their grandson had started calling her "Mom," they felt deeply comforted. This was what a real family looked like!

Her mother-in-law said, "We didn't know when you'd be back, so we cooked the rice, but we haven't started on the dishes yet."

"No worries, I'll handle the cooking. You just keep playing with the kids!"

As she entered the house, Nan Sheng noticed the lock had been installed on the west room's door. Starting tomorrow, fewer people would be needed for work assignments, and since Nan Sheng would be home, there was no need to lock up.

For dinner, she stir-fried some fatty intestines, made boiled shrimp with a dipping sauce, and prepared a cold vegetable dish.

The rice was a coarse corn porridge, and judging by its consistency, her mother-in-law must have made it. Nan Sheng only ate one bowl—if she stuck to this, she'd be hungry before bedtime. At least she didn't have to live with her in-laws.

After not seeing her all day, her clingy little one came over to tend the fire for her.

Once her son finished cleaning the shrimp, he went to gather potatoes from the garden. They harvested three full sacks, which they left in a ventilated spot to dry. Potatoes stored this way lasted longer and were less likely to rot.

Lin's mother helped sweep the yard and told her grandson, "Since there's no school tomorrow, you can plant some greens in the empty patch. If they take root, we'll have extra meals."

Nan Sheng hadn't realized her son was so capable. While she stir-fried the intestines in the kitchen, she set aside a few pieces for her daughter before adding chili peppers to the rest for a spicy kick. The fumes made Siqi's eyes water and her nose run.

Nan Sheng was both exasperated and amused as she wiped the girl's face.

"You stubborn little thing, why not just wait outside for a bit?"

Siqi shook her head firmly. No way. Her mom had been away a lot lately, and she just wanted to stay close.

During dinner, Lin Guozheng brought up work.

"The village is cutting farmland by half, so work assignments will be assigned per household. Second daughter-in-law, we won't need as many record-keepers. If you still want to work, you'll have to take on manual labor."

Sizhe glanced at his stepmother and spoke up for her. "Then don't go. We have enough money at home. If work points are reduced this year, we'll just skip the rationed grain."

Nan Sheng didn't dismiss his concern. "I've been thinking about it too. With food shortages looming for every family, I wouldn't feel right leaving home unattended to work."

If they lost a year's worth of grain for the sake of a few work points, how would they survive?

Her reasoning made sense, and Lin's parents nodded in understanding.

Lin Guozheng had brought it up because he worried Nan Sheng might lose her record-keeper job abruptly and react badly—maybe even confront the village chief.

The fatty intestines sizzled with oil under Nan Sheng's skilled hands, and the dipping sauce for the shrimp was so fragrant it masked any fishy taste. Her mother-in-law couldn't stop praising her.

"I never liked shrimp before—couldn't bear to fry them in oil, and boiling them just made them stink. Kids in the village would sometimes roast them, but after tasting yours, I realize we've been wasting them all along."

Before the elderly couple left, Nan Sheng handed them five yuan. "Lin Han wrote and suggested giving you five yuan every month for your living expenses. His salary's gone up, so please take it."

Lin Guozheng refused, and Fan Shuting waved it off too. With three sons, it wouldn't be fair for just the second one to provide for them.

"Your eldest and youngest brothers haven't given us anything, so we won't take Lin Han's either. Put it away."

But Nan Sheng was sincere. She couldn't let them leave empty-handed. "Our family's doing well, and since Lin Han isn't here to take care of you himself, this money is his way of showing filial piety. It'll ease his mind if you accept it."

Seeing her genuine kindness, the elderly couple finally took the money. After buying grain, their own funds were tight.

On their way home, they agreed—this daughter-in-law was a blessing. Lin Han wouldn't have to worry about his family anymore.

That evening, the whole village was required to attend a meeting. Siqi, unusually energetic, insisted on going too, so Nan Sheng brought both children along.

Once everyone had gathered, the village chief stood at the center with Lin Guozheng and a few team leaders, holding a small megaphone.

"Today, the brigade leader, Nan Sheng, and I attended a town meeting. Experts from the city have confirmed our county is facing a once-in-a-century drought."

"To prevent starvation, the authorities are ordering us to destroy half of our low-yield crops—starting tomorrow!"

The villagers exchanged stunned glances before erupting into chaos.

Most were against destroying their fields, but the chief didn't waste time arguing.

"Fine. If you refuse, and our village ends up with no harvest at all, will you take responsibility? Should I ignore orders from above and listen to you instead?"

His words carried enough weight to quiet some of the opposition.

"Let me make this clear—anyone who interferes will be reported. The militia will haul you off for reeducation!"

The first announcement had already angered everyone, and the next was about work assignments.

"With less farmland, we won't need as many laborers. Each household will send one able-bodied worker first. If more are needed later, we'll adjust."

By the time the meeting ended, curses filled the air.

Nan Sheng guessed the village chief wouldn't have a peaceful day for at least two weeks. Still, she admired his resolve—he'd shouldered the blame alone.

Lin Guozheng told him, "You're really sticking your neck out. If the drought isn't as bad as predicted, you'll lose your position."

Feng Wuquan rolled a cigarette between his fingers. "If we don't water the fields now, they're done for. No time to argue. If I'm removed, I'll nominate you as chief—you'd look out for me, wouldn't you?"

They'd been friends since childhood; neither would abandon the other.

As it turned out, the chief was right. Other villages wasted days debating, and some even needed the militia to enforce the order.

Meanwhile, Xiangyang Village had already watered all the remaining fields and destroyed the designated plots as instructed.

No one wanted this job. Some grown men wept while working—after months of backbreaking labor, who could've imagined they'd lose their harvest just before reaping it?

Every village was scrambling now. Families rushed to stockpile grain, buying at least five hundred pounds each.

With their fields gone, how else would they survive?

The poorest households, who usually relied on aid, lay awake at night, convinced they wouldn't make it.

The brigade had reserved some surplus grain—about three thousand pounds—but divided among the villagers, each family would only get ten pounds of coarse grain.

The village chief led by example, giving up his family's share to contribute thirty pounds to an elderly widower.

No one could stand by and watch their neighbors starve. Little by little, the villagers pooled together, ensuring each struggling family received a sack and a half of grain.

If they rationed carefully, it would last two or three months. For now, they could only take things one step at a time.

Chapter 42

After the favorability level reached 50, the unlocked storylines in the book revolved around the romantic relationship between the male and female leads—full of tenderness and sweet moments.

Among these, there were also plots Nan Sheng could learn from. The wave of the Revolutionary Committee had reached the village.

After the disaster in Huaishan County, life became difficult for the locals, making it an ideal place for educated youth to be sent down and for the "Black Five Categories" to undergo reform. As a result, the Revolutionary Committee had been causing quite a stir.

The male lead was initially unremarkable—nothing special except for his good looks. It was only after he unintentionally helped a high-ranking official sent down for reform that his fortunes turned, propelling him into politics and launching his rise to power.

Nan Sheng took notes, determined to cut short the male lead's promising future. Let's see if Su Jinyan would still cling to that butcher then.

As for the two lottery draws, she was saving them, afraid that another round of "Thank you for your patronage" would be too much for her fragile heart.

"Lin Han's wife, the village chief wants to see you at his place. Says it's important!"

"Ah! Thank you, sister-in-law!"

Nan Sheng's eyes lit up, wondering if it was news from the town mayor. She put on straw hats for herself and her daughter, holding hands as they walked to the village chief's house.

Along the way, they had to stop and chat with every auntie or granny they met. With little work to do, everyone liked gathering in the shade to gossip.

By the time Nan Sheng reached the village chief's house, she had no idea she'd become the talk of the village again. Back then, everyone knew Lin Han's wife was harsh with her kids and didn't feed them enough.

But now? The children had filled out, looking lively and well-dressed. For a stepmother to do this much was truly admirable.

Those who disliked Nan Sheng muttered behind her back, "Don't praise her too soon. Wait till she has her own child—see if she'll still treat them equally."

Still, they forced smiles when she greeted them.

"You're here, Lin Han's wife! Come, sit! Old lady, fetch some candy for the kids."

Nan Sheng quickly waved it off. "No need for candy, just some water will do. Uncle Feng, did you need me for something?"

The village chief insisted on giving Siqi a few pieces of candy before getting to the point.

"The town sent word—they want you to go to the government office tomorrow. Didn't say what for, but I reckon it's about that stone business."

Normally, he'd have gone himself for such a small matter, but lately, with the crops and labor disputes, the elders had been cursing him left and right.

Better to lie low.

As Nan Sheng left, she offered some comfort. "Uncle Feng, what you're doing is truly good. The villagers don't see it now, but they'll realize your decisions were the wisest. When that time comes, don't be too soft-hearted and forgive them too easily!"

The village chief grumbled about her being talkative, but her words eased his mind. This girl really knew how to speak!

On the way back, folks asked why the village chief had summoned her.

Nan Sheng couldn't mention the town mayor—villagers had a poor impression of him—so she said, "My parents in Wangshan Town sent word. They're struggling to buy rations and wanted to ask if my father-in-law had any connections."

Grain was the top priority now, and her words sparked a flurry of chatter.

"They haven't bought yet? It was a nightmare for us—barely managed to snag 300 jin. The lines were endless!"

"Don't even get me started. My folks back home aren't worried, but what if they can't buy later? Nobody has spare grain these days!"

Despite their complaints, every household in Xiangyang Village had stockpiled grain—some 200-300 jin, others up to 600-700 jin.

Not all bought from the black market. The supply and marketing cooperative still sold grain, and the town mayor had ordered the grain station to release half its reserves. Those with ration coupons and money could buy cheaper there.

Someone advised Nan Sheng, "There's a black market in town. Tell your family to check there—though prices are double the cooperative's!"

Nan Sheng feigned distress. "That expensive? How much would it cost to feed the whole family?"

Zhou Ren's wife, who often heard her husband praise Nan Sheng, chimed in warmly.

"Borrow money if you must. Many can't even get in line to buy. Have you stocked enough for you and the kids? Don't delay any longer."

Nan Sheng smiled gratefully. "Thanks for the advice, sister-in-law. My father-in-law helped us buy 300 jin, and we've got a full sack at home—plenty for now. But my parents… sigh, maybe I'll share some with them."

Her lie was believable, unlike others who exaggerated, claiming their single sack of grain wouldn't even last a week.

Villagers who once envied her comfortable life—her husband sent money every month—now saw her as someone stretched thin supporting her parents.

Back home, Siqi pouted. "Why'd you cover my mouth, Mom? You'll suffocate me!"

Nan Sheng pinched her cheek. "Good! You little rascal, trying to expose me!"

If she hadn't acted fast, Siqi might've blurted out about their house full of grain sacks—luckily, the girl didn't know the cabinets were packed too.

Siqi shielded her face. "Was I not supposed to say it?"

Nan Sheng nodded. "Of course not! If people knew, they'd come begging, and we'd starve. So if anyone asks, just say you don't know, okay?"

Siqi solemnly agreed. Mom's words were law.

"Tomorrow, I'm going to town again. Do you want to stay home or come with me?"

The day after was the anniversary of the children's birth mother's death. After meeting the town mayor, she'd buy biscuits, pastries, and canned food—offerings for the grave.

She also needed to check the black market for covertly made spirit money. The afterlife was tough without funds.

"Go with Mom!"

Siqi clung to her leg, grinning. She barely played outside anymore—Mom was way more fun, telling stories and playing string games.

That evening, Sizhe returned with another fish trap. Every day after school, he'd check it, bringing home the catch for dinner before resetting it. Nan Sheng dried shrimp and fish—already three or four jin stored.

"Mom, no big fish today—just small ones and shrimp."

Nan Sheng wasn't picky. "Smaller ones taste better. In winter when veggies are scarce, we'll fry them to eat with porridge."

Just hearing the description made Sizhe's mouth water. He truly believed now—Mom knew how to manage a household, storing food and earning money. No more empty stomachs.

He'd move the trap tonight—get more dried goods before others caught on.

After dinner, Nan Sheng washed dishes while the kids did homework.

With clothes and grain piled on the kang in the west room, Sizhe wiped the table clean to write.

Nan Sheng watched for a while. "Your handwriting needs work. I'll check for calligraphy books in town tomorrow."

Sizhe grinned. "A classmate has one, bought from the county. None here, but I'll practice more."

Nan Sheng had already ordered a wooden chest and a desk set from the village carpenter—plain materials, just ten yuan.

The carpenter was quite pleased, as aside from village weddings, he rarely got much business.

He promised to do a proper job for her and even offered free delivery.

Chapter 43

"Da Wa, the day after tomorrow is your mother's death anniversary. Did she have any favorite foods? I'm going to town tomorrow and can pick something up."

Sizhe's mood dipped at the mention, though it had been over two years now—not like the early days when he'd think of his mother constantly.

He felt a pang of guilt. "I don't actually know what she liked to eat."

His father had told him that after marrying his mother, he'd handed over his earnings to her. Back then, his father's wages were meager, and the Bai family would often come demanding money. Even by the time Sizhe was four or five, the household was still scraping by month to month.

Later, his father stopped giving his mother so much, saving some for himself and only providing living expenses. But the Bai family kept coming for more. Back then, he and his younger sister ate worse than they did now.

His mother never mistreated her children, but with food so scarce, they couldn't always eat their fill. Still, she was gentle, and he didn't blame her.

"Don't worry about it. I'll buy a few different things—one of them is bound to be something she liked."

Siqi, overhearing the conversation about her birth mother, felt nothing. She'd only been three at the time and couldn't even remember her face.

Sizhe, worried the Bai family might show up, rearranged the food in his room, stacking it flat on top of the wardrobe and covering it with a pile of clothes.

From outside the window, it just looked like a messy heap—nothing identifiable.

When he left for school, he pocketed the key to the west room. Nan Sheng was busy fixing their daughter's hair, and before leaving, she made sure all doors and windows were locked, even the shed outside.

The yard was spotless—not a single stray item in sight.

Nan Sheng tucked a handful of candies into her pocket and knocked on Granny Zhang's door. With so many idle hands at home now—her daughter-in-law and the kids all around—she knew someone would answer.

"Lin Han's wife! Come in, come in!"

Nan Sheng stepped inside and set a handful of rock sugar on the table for the kids to share. "I won't stay long—just wanted to ask a favor."

With the sugar as a polite gesture, Granny Zhang was all ears. "No need for formalities among neighbors! Just say the word."

Nan Sheng sighed. "Tomorrow's the death anniversary of the previous wife. I've heard the Bai family comes every year and leaves with their arms full. I was hoping you could keep an eye out for me—if anyone shows up, could you send word to the Lin family? I'll be in town."

"Consider it done! Don't you worry."

Pushing her bicycle out, Nan Sheng faced the usual barrage of questions. She explained she was going to town to help her parents look into buying grain and to pick up a few things—tomorrow was the children's mother's death anniversary.

At the mention of Bai Xiu, the villagers remembered her notorious relatives all too well.

"This time, you'd better stand your ground against the Bai family. Don't let them bleed you dry, or you'll never hear the end of it."

Nan Sheng feigned helplessness. "I'm worried too. These days, who isn't short on food? I just fear they'll sneak in and pry open our door. I've heard they've got sticky fingers!"

The villagers, ever warm-hearted, reassured her. "Don't fret. We're outside all day—we'll keep watch. If anyone tries sneaking into your yard, we'll chase them off!"

Back when Bai Xiu's parents were alive, it was their own choice to let themselves be bullied. But now that Lin Han had remarried, if outsiders dared steal from the village, they'd regret it!

"Thank you, everyone. It's such a blessing to have neighbors like you!"

Her words drew laughter, and even as she rode away, the chatter behind her continued. But both mother and child were in good spirits—Siqi even swung her little feet from the back of the bike.

Nan Sheng warned her, "Keep your feet away from the wheel! If they get caught, you'll be down to one!"

Frightened, Siqi shifted to sit sideways, wrapping her arms around Nan Sheng's waist.

By the time they reached town, it was just past nine. Nan Sheng headed straight for the government office.

Yu Feng's smile was strained when he saw her. "I'm afraid I'll disappoint you. Saltpeter is tightly controlled. We can get approval, but it'll be under centralized management. Technicians are scarce—most are at research institutes or with the military. They won't spare any for a small place like ours."

The news was bittersweet. The good part? They could get saltpeter, albeit under strict oversight. But if they could produce ice, villages could collect it from town.

In the worst heat, ice could mean survival.

Nan Sheng mentally called up her system. She still had one question left from her last encyclopedia prize draw. She asked if she could trade it for a saltpeter ice-making method.

Thinking she was disheartened, Yu Feng offered rare comfort.

"Truth is, saltpeter's tied to things like artillery. The researchers working on it are developing weapons—they can't just drop everything for us. Don't take it too hard."

By then, Nan Sheng had the full ice-making instructions. She hesitated before speaking.

"Director Yu, I wasn't entirely upfront earlier. I actually have a saltpeter ice-making method—just never tested it. Would you like to give it a try?"

Yu Feng's eyes lit up. "You're serious?"

Nan Sheng nodded. "I thought having technicians oversee it would be safer, so I didn't mention it. But if you're willing, I can write it down now for your team to test."

Of course Yu Feng agreed. The saltpeter was already approved—a single phone call would bring it over.

If the county couldn't make ice, but the town could? Even better.

"Good. I'll have someone fetch paper and pen. Write it down—the saltpeter will arrive tonight."

Nan Sheng meticulously copied the method twice, keeping one copy for herself.

She emphasized safety: "When testing, pick a well-ventilated spot. Anyone handling it must wear protective gloves and plain glasses to shield their eyes."

After making his call, Yu Feng returned to find the instructions detailed enough that even he felt confident trying.

After a moment's thought, he made his decision. "Comrade Nan Sheng, if you're willing, starting tomorrow, you'll work at the town office. I'm offering you a clerk position, with one day off weekly."

Yu Feng had high hopes for her. If not for the lack of openings, she'd already be on payroll.

Now, with the ice-making method added to her contributions, no one would block her file.

Nan Sheng was visibly surprised. Working in town hadn't been part of her plans. The lowest rank was usually a clerk—this was a step up, normally requiring a year or two of seniority.

Yu Feng was serious.

After a pause, Nan Sheng didn't immediately accept. "Director Yu, I've got some family matters to settle first. How about I start once the ice is successfully made?"

Yu Feng nodded. A sensible approach.

"Rest assured, you'll be paid at Grade 24. For the drought relief and ice-making, I'll also put in for additional rewards."

To Nan Sheng, the message was clear: Come work for us—you won't regret it.

Chapter 44

The town mayor also had his own agenda—he wanted his superiors to see his knack for recognizing talent. Moreover, if Nan Sheng started working at the government office, any credit earned would reflect well on the town administration.

Nan Sheng left her daughter at the government office, as it wasn't convenient to take her to the black market. Before riding off, she pulled out a homemade mask from her pocket and put it on. The black market was crowded, and she couldn't risk showing her face.

The black market bustled with people, though everyone moved quickly. The government turned a blind eye—partly because they were paid off, but also because they relied on the place for supplies.

Nine out of ten people who entered the black market were after grain. Once ten people filled the courtyard, no more were allowed in until someone left. Those who couldn't get in took a number and wandered nearby, but no one dared linger too long on the street.

When Nan Sheng pushed her bicycle inside, someone immediately barked at her, "All the numbers are gone for today! Come back tomorrow!"

Seeing it was just someone in line, Nan Sheng ignored them and kept moving forward. Anyone trying to cut in would've been met with protests.

"What's wrong with you? We're all waiting in line. Even if you go up front without a number, it's useless."

Though she didn't recognize anyone, Nan Sheng didn't let her guard down. She stayed silent, pretending to be mute.

Hearing the commotion, Shitou sent someone to check. A young man, noticing her familiar outfit and identical bicycle, approached and asked, "Comrade, is that you?"

It was a strange question—Nan Sheng had never given her name. She responded with a quiet "Mm," then asked, "Is Brother Yi here?"

Brother Yi wasn't around. He was the only one with the connections to bring in large quantities of grain from neighboring counties. The young man ushered her inside to talk with Shitou.

Seeing that Nan Sheng knew the black market dealers, the crowd outside fell silent, sealing their lips tight.

When Nan Sheng removed her mask and hat, Shitou broke into a grin. He fetched two packs of pastries from the county and a bag of White Rabbit candies. "Comrade, you're here! Take these back as a little treat."

With the drought dragging on, grain orders had skyrocketed, bringing in profits that would normally take years to earn. They reinvested the money into buying and selling grain, working around the clock.

Brother Yi had even said that when he returned, he'd share the profits with their "lady benefactor." Today's gifts were just a small token.

"I can't keep taking things for free," Nan Sheng said. "I came to ask Brother Yi if he'd be interested in the ice-making business. With this heat, the wealthy will pay top dollar for ice. I have the formula."

Shitou, who often traveled with Xiao Yi, had a sharp eye for opportunity. His face lit up at the mention of an ice-making formula. "Comrade, we'll take it! Name your price!"

Good heavens—this wasn't just a benefactor, she was practically their savior, bringing one lucrative idea after another.

Nan Sheng told him not to rush. "This time, I want a cut—10% for me, 90% for you. I'll only provide the formula. You'll need to source saltpeter first. The town government will start experimenting with ice-making tomorrow, but each village will have a quota. If you're willing, there's still a market."

Shitou was ready to agree on the spot, but Nan Sheng insisted on a written contract and clear accounts. His illiteracy made things awkward.

Still, he could arrange for saltpeter right away. If Brother Yi agreed when he returned, they'd start making ice tomorrow—they couldn't fall behind the government.

The grain market was already chaotic, and the town had multiple black markets. Once grain prices surged, they'd stop selling. The ice business could thrive for at least another month.

Before Shitou could ask, Nan Sheng introduced herself.

"My name is Nan Sheng. I'm the second daughter-in-law of the Xiangyang Village production team leader. If you decide, come find me."

Before leaving, Nan Sheng also asked Shitou to help her obtain a thick stack of underground currency.

When she tried to leave, Shitou insisted she take the candies and pastries, strapping them to her bike's rear rack. Outside, Nan Sheng wiped the sweat from her brow.

Honestly, such enthusiasm could be overwhelming.

Back at the government office, Nan Sheng carried several ice pops—one for herself, one for her child, and one for the clerk who'd watched her daughter.

Siqi happily munched on her ice pop from the back seat as Nan Sheng secured the goods on the bike frame and pedaled home. With one hand on the handlebars and the other holding her treat, she couldn't have been more content.

Even on a bicycle, the midday sun was merciless. The heat seeped through her clothes, scorching her skin.

All she wanted was to get home, draw a basin of cool water from the well, and chill a bowl of mung bean soup.

At the hottest hour, villagers retreated for their afternoon naps. Nan Sheng rode straight home, rinsed her straw hat, and left it to dry under the eaves. After wiping herself and Siqi down, they settled in for a nap.

Before sleeping, she opened a pack of pastries and left them on the kang, in case the child woke up hungry.

But she didn't wake naturally—someone was banging on the door and windows. Siqi stirred, her hair a wild mess, looking like a little ruffian.

"Open up! We're the Bai family, here to pay respects to our daughter!"

Nan Sheng checked her watch—past three o'clock. She'd slept deeply. Good thing she'd locked the door, or the Bai family would've barged in.

She took her time getting ready. When Siqi whimpered "Mama," Nan Sheng reassured her, then braided the girl's hair.

She was waiting. Someone would come soon.

Outside, the Bai family escalated from knocking to shouting curses. Nan Sheng pulled a firewood cleaver from under the kang.

She wondered how well it would work on heads.

About twenty minutes later, Lin Guozheng, Eldest Brother Lin, and Third Brother Lin arrived. A crowd of onlookers had gathered, waiting for the main event.

Lin Guozheng's face was dark. "What's all this shouting?"

The Bai family had brought four members—grandfather, grandmother, uncle, and aunt—all here to see their "grandchildren."

Old Lady Bai was defiant. "Is the person inside dead? We came all this way to mourn our daughter, and no one opens the door! Are you Lin family blind, marrying such a daughter-in-law?"

The spectators weren't having it. How could the Bai family be so shameless, coming to mooch and acting high and mighty?

Granny Zhang's daughter-in-law, who'd gone to fetch the Lin brothers, spoke first. "What business is it of yours who they marry? Don't come to Xiangyang Village throwing your weight around."

"Pah! Of course it's my business! My grandchildren are here—the Lin family has to acknowledge us!" Old Lady Bai clung to the two children as her bargaining chip.

Then the door creaked open. Nan Sheng stepped out, locked the door behind her, and placed straw hats on herself and Siqi. The cleaver in her right hand was hard to miss.

"Your daughter isn't buried in the Lin house. If you're here to mourn, why aren't you up in the mountains instead of pounding on my door? Looking for trouble?"

Chapter 45

Nan Sheng's words served as a signal. The women of Xiangyang Village immediately surged forward like a floodgate opening, entering the courtyard to confront the Bai family.

"Exactly! The Second Lin isn't even home, and you two grown men are here demanding a young wife open the door—what, trying to harass her?"

"Tomorrow's the memorial day, yet your whole family shows up right at dinnertime today. What, can't even afford food at home?"

The summer heat already had everyone on edge, and now with a ready-made punching bag delivered to their doorstep, the women were determined not to miss a chance to vent. The two Bai women were no match for them.

Nan Sheng casually handed her daughter to Third Brother Lin to hold. His presence was just for show—the real priority was keeping the child from getting scared.

By the time the crowd had finished their verbal assault, the Bai mother-in-law and daughter-in-law looked dazed, their expressions clearing from sheer bewilderment.

Nan Sheng turned up the theatrics. "Thank goodness my sisters and aunties are here to stand up for me. Do you know how hard it is raising two kids? The older one's unruly, and the younger one's clingy.

"I've been married into this family for months and never once heard about any 'grandparents'—then suddenly, they're banging on doors and windows! How could I not be terrified?"

The onlookers watched as Nan Sheng pretended to wipe tears with her right hand, their lips twitching. That massive firewood cleaver in her grip—honestly, they were more afraid of her.

Zhou Ren's wife was the first to snap out of it and chime in, "Absolutely! Anyone would be scared in her place!"

Just yesterday, she'd mentioned the Lin family's grain purchase to her husband, and Zhou Ren had laughed, saying Nan Sheng was cunning. Today, she saw it firsthand.

Grandpa Bai, realizing his usual tactics wouldn't work this time, dropped the act of playing deaf and dumb.

"Respected in-laws, could you explain to the new daughter-in-law? We come every year—pay our respects at the grave tomorrow and leave. Just this one visit a year, and even that's too much for you?"

Uncle Bai added, "My sister may be gone, but those two children still carry Bai blood, don't they? You can't just cut ties with our family now that you've remarried. What if the kids face injustice someday? Who'll speak for them?"

Nan Sheng scoffed inwardly. Back when the original owner of this body was beating the children daily, where were they? All talk, no action.

If the Bai family had tried to force their way in, the villagers would've made sure they regretted it. But now that they'd switched to playing the sympathy card, the neighbors hesitated, stepping back to let the Lin family handle it themselves.

Nan Sheng strode forward, happy to take charge. She could argue—and she could fight.

Cleaver in hand, she began with an apology. "Sorry about this—I'm just a bit timid. Needed something to steady my nerves. Hope you don't mind?"

The Bai family ground their teeth. "Wouldn't dare."

Nan Sheng started by buttering them up.

"Anyone can see the Bai family values reason. Back when Bai Xiu ran this household, you were father and daughter, brother and sister—living together, no one could criticize. But now that I've married in, don't you think it's inappropriate for you to stay?

"Even if you claim separate rooms change nothing, just your presence in this courtyard would ruin my reputation. Isn't that right?"

Grandma Bai wasn't stupid and quickly claimed ignorance about Lin Han's remarriage—only for Lin Guozheng to shut her down.

"The Lin family has manners. My second son personally went to your home to explain the situation. How could you not know?"

"Fine, maybe I forgot!" she snapped.

"No problem at all!" Nan Sheng replied, all magnanimity.

"Now that you all know, there's no way I can take you in. Find your own place to stay tonight. If you really care about your daughter, why not just camp out on the mountain? That way, you can chat with Bai Xiu a bit longer."

Grandpa Bai's face turned livid with anger as he pointed at Lin Guozheng. "In-law, your daughter-in-law's words are downright vicious! Our home is so far away, and you won't even offer us a place to rest?"

Third Brother Lin wasn't holding back either—he'd long disliked the Bai family. "Far? It's just a two-hour walk. Go visit the grave now, and by the time you're done, it'll be bedtime anyway."

The Lin family had stockpiled plenty of food, but none of the households were willing to take the Bai family in. Even Lin Guozheng made it clear they wanted nothing to do with them.

"See your child and then go home. We won't hold it against you for all the money and grain Bai Xiu gave you in the past, but don't expect any more handouts. Don't even think about coming back to take advantage."

Outmatched in a fight, out-talked in an argument, and now facing someone waving a knife to make a point, the Bai family was on the verge of tears.

Uncle Bai could only mutter, "You don't get to decide this. Unless the children grow up and say they want to cut ties, the bond between the Bai and Lin families will never be broken."

Sizhe always looked worried, but Nan Sheng had assumed the Bai family would be far more troublesome. Turns out, they were just used to pushing the Lin Family around because the latter was too soft-hearted.

"I don't care if you're related to the Lin Family—you're certainly not related to me. From now on, stay out of my yard. If you want to reconnect, go to the old house."

With that, Nan Sheng swung her knife in a practiced flourish—a move she'd learned from Monkey King as a kid, back when she used to twirl sticks for fun. It looked intimidating as hell.

Finally, she swept the blade inches from each of the Bai family members' faces. "I like practicing with this knife in my yard. If anyone's careless enough to wander in, well… that's their bad luck."

The Bai family stumbled back in unison, the elderly couple clutching their chests in fright. It was their first time seeing a chopping knife whiz past their noses—quite the adrenaline rush.

Nan Sheng saw right through them. Out of the four, only the old lady had a sharp tongue. The rest were pushovers; she half-worried a real fight might scare a couple of them to death.

Her knife routine was also meant as a warning to the villagers. She'd practiced deliberately after buying the blade, but when she turned around, the women's eyes were sparkling like she was their idol.

"Lin Han's wife, can you do that again? That was so cool!"

Nan Sheng: "…Of course!"

She deliberately edged closer to the Bai family this time, sending them scrambling toward the gate. The knife whooshed through the air—one slip, and it could've ended up in someone's leg or neck.

Nan Sheng multitasked, keeping an eye on the Bai family as they settled just outside the gate. She repeated the performance, earning cheers and applause.

Grabbing a bag of rock sugar, she distributed pieces to the crowd. "Thanks for having my back today. It's not much, but take some sugar home for the kids."

Her open "rewarding of allies" in front of the Bai family nearly made the old couple's jaws hit the ground in outrage.

Third Brother Lin sidled up for some sugar, saying he wanted to bring some back for his daughter. Nan Sheng was so annoyed she almost smacked him—until she remembered the knife in her hand.

Thankfully, Third Brother Lin dodged in time. Otherwise, his head would've been history.

He yelped, "Second Sister-in-law, fine, no sugar! No need to kill me!"

Nan Sheng scratched her head sheepishly. "Oops. Forgot about that."

She gave the remaining half-bag of rock sugar to Third Brother Lin to calm his nerves. When he returned home, he was still shaken and told his daughter that he had risked his life to bring back those sugar cubes.

The Bai family stayed, and so did the Lin Family, though the villagers had to return home to prepare meals.

"Lin Han's wife, we'll head back to cook first. Call us if you need anything!"

Nan Sheng brought out three chairs from the house and placed them in the shade for Lin Guozheng and the others to rest awhile.

"Stay for dinner tonight—I've already accounted for your portions."

Chapter 46

Nan Sheng thought that if Sizhe returned, he would surely need the fish basket. She first cooked the corn porridge, then went to the vegetable garden to pick an assortment of greens for a hearty stew.

Her son and daughter loved fried eggs, so she decided to fry one for each of them in the evening. Paired with fish or shrimp, it would make for a satisfying meal.

By the time the food was almost ready, Sizhe would be back from school. Nan Sheng used lard to prepare the stew, tossing in chunks of crispy pork fat that filled the air with an irresistible aroma.

Third Brother Lin, who had been restless earlier, immediately settled down at the scent of the food. He even teased Siqi playfully—she was the only one who didn't hold grudges, unlike Sizhe, who still refused to acknowledge his uncle.

As the stew was served, commotion erupted outside again. Nan Sheng stepped out to take Sizhe's schoolbag and fish basket from him. "Dinner's almost ready. Don't talk for too long," she reminded him.

Sizhe nodded. He felt a smug satisfaction seeing the Bai family too afraid to enter, forced to loiter at the doorstep. Meanwhile, the sight of him getting along so well with his stepmother only fueled the Bai family's fury.

How could he be so close to an outsider while turning his back on his own grandparents and uncles? Wasn't that the definition of an ungrateful wretch?

The fish basket, relocated the day before, had yielded a plentiful catch. Nan Sheng sorted out the smaller fish for Third Brother Lin to clean, saving the larger ones to dry and keeping the shrimp fresh for breakfast—excellent sources of protein.

A whole plate of small fish was prepared. Nan Sheng fried the eggs first, then used the remaining oil to fry the fish.

Just as they were about to stick to the pan, she added scallions, ginger, garlic, and fermented soybean paste to braise them, removing the fishy taste before sweetening it with a touch of sugar. The result was absolutely divine!

Outside, the Bai family hurled insults at Sizhe, calling him disloyal for treating a "thief" as his mother. In response, Sizhe coldly listed all the money and goods the Bai family had taken from the Lin household over the years, sparing no face for his maternal grandparents.

If not for the drought, he suspected his paternal grandparents would still be urging him to endure the mistreatment.

Eventually, the Bai family left, but not without a final threat—swearing they'd rather starve than ever set foot here again. Old Lady Bai, ever the drama queen, wailed all the way from the Lin residence to the village entrance, as if her tears could curse the family's fortunes.

At dinner, Nan Sheng had intended to invite her mother-in-law over, but Sizhe returned with the news that she had already eaten. As for the others, Nan Sheng ignored them entirely.

Especially her sister-in-law—how dare she ask for a loan after proving utterly useless in times of need, hiding at home like a coward?

The evening meal featured two main dishes: the fried eggs, one per person, disappeared quickly. The savory braised fish paired perfectly with rice, while the occasional bite of crispy pork fat in the stew kept the men—usually quiet—busy devouring their food.

Nan Sheng had cooked half a pot of porridge, refilling the bowl whenever it emptied. Lin Guozheng and his father, who usually ate only until half-full, found themselves stuffed for once.

Had there not been so much porridge—and the fear of it spoiling overnight—they would never have indulged so freely.

Back at the old house, Zhou Wei was berating her two sons. "You idiots! If you'd called your father back, you could've mooched a meal off them! Instead, you just eat at home while your grandparents go hungry!"

Sizhong and Sicheng kept their heads down, slurping their porridge. They had wanted to help earlier, but their mother had stubbornly held them back, claiming the Bai family was trouble.

Now that the coast was clear, she expected them to shamelessly invite themselves over? Were their faces made of iron, that thick?

Zhou Wei's nagging wore on Sizhong's nerves. "Mom, if you keep acting like this—only taking, never giving—no one will help us when we're in trouble."

"Bullshit!" Zhou Wei snapped, angrier at being contradicted. "Didn't I go when Sizhe got beaten up? And did she lend me any money?"

Meanwhile, Fan Shuting pretended not to hear the commotion. Too lazy to cook dinner, she lay on the kang, feigning sleep.

When Lin Guozheng returned, he brought her a bowl of thick corn porridge. "This is all that's left. You should eat something."

After years of marriage, he knew his wife well—she couldn't be bothered to cook for herself.

Fan Shuting smiled and took a sip. The grains and beans had been simmered to perfection. "I'm surprised you managed to ask your daughter-in-law for food."

Lin Guozheng didn't respond. Had there been leftovers, he would've cooked for his mother anyway.

"Neither the eldest nor the third daughter-in-law came today."

Fan Shuting paused mid-sip. "Let them be. If Nan Sheng refuses to help them in the future, they've brought it on themselves."

At least the brothers got along. As long as they stood united in important matters, the rest could slide.

Sizhe was doing homework on the kang when Nan Sheng knocked and entered, placing a package of pastries beside him.

"I've spoken with your grandfather and uncle. After dark, you'll go with them to burn paper offerings on the mountain. Take a shovel to dig a pit—burn everything inside it, then bury the ashes. It's too hot; we can't risk a wildfire."

Sizhe's eyes lit up at the chance to honor his late mother. Nan Sheng had even prepared two types of pastries—three of each for the offerings—along with wine.

With his father away, this was a rare opportunity to properly pay respects. Sizhe was deeply moved.

"Mom, thank you… really."

Nan Sheng patted his shoulder. "Don't forget a flashlight, and watch your step on the mountain."

By the time Sizhe returned from the rites, it was nearly ten. As he raised his hand to knock, Nan Sheng unlatched the door, letting him in.

"Everything go smoothly?"

"Yeah. No one saw us. We buried the pit before leaving."

Only one thing bothered him—Third Brother Lin had taken the offerings from the grave.

Noticing his mood, Nan Sheng teased him. "Did you mention me when you paid respects? The paper offerings and food were all from me. Your mother better appreciate it—next time she visits, she'd better not wander into the wrong room!"

Sizhe: "…"

She made it sound so real, he could feel a chill down his neck.

The night was far from over. Around one in the morning, Xiao Yi arrived near Nan Sheng's house with a companion, planning to rest nearby until dawn before knocking.

Just as he was about to send his underling away, a figure slipped quietly out of the courtyard gate. Xiao Yi, accustomed to navigating the dark, recognized it as a man.

What was going on?

A petty thief would be easy—just beat him senseless. But if this was an affair in progress, Xiao Yi would rather die on the spot.

Sure enough, things took that exact turn. Creeping closer, they heard the man tapping rhythmically on the window, calling Nan Sheng's name.

Coincidentally, Sizhe, still unsettled by Nan Sheng's joke, hadn't been able to sleep. He was too embarrassed to move to the east room.

Just as drowsiness finally crept in, he heard the noise outside—and someone calling his mother's name.

What in the world?

Had his birth mother really come for him?

Chapter 47

He quietly pressed his ear against the window, recognizing the voice as somewhat familiar—and male.

Late at night, a man sneaking around—Sizhe already had his suspicions.

His nerves instantly tightened. This man must be here to demand money. What if he's armed?

Sizhe decided to scare him off. "Who are you? What are you doing at my house in the middle of the night?" he called out.

Yu Sheng only then realized he'd knocked on the wrong door. He hurried to slip away—getting caught would mean facing either theft or indecency charges, neither of which he could afford.

But as the saying goes, while the mantis stalks the cicada, the oriole lurks behind.

Before he could even spot them, two burly men waiting outside struck the back of his neck, knocking him unconscious.

Now, Xiao Yi had no choice but to step in. He'd assumed Nan Sheng had been caught in an affair and that the man had fled, leaving her alone to face the Lin family's wrath.

Tsk, what a shame—a comrade with such questionable morals!

So, after scaring off one, Sizhe ended up with two (plus one more).

Xiao Yi's knocking wasn't exactly quiet. Before Sizhe could decide what to do, Nan Sheng woke up too. She dressed and came out, finding her son already there.

"You're awake too? Who's outside?"

"No idea!"

Sizhe didn't know how to describe the man. Better to let his mother see for herself.

"It's me, Xiao Yi!"

What was he doing here at this hour?

Though annoyed, Nan Sheng opened the door—otherwise, the neighbors would gossip, and no amount of explaining would help.

Once inside, she saw Xiao Yi and the town's postman dragging in an unconscious man. She frowned. "Did you kill someone?"

Xiao Yi nearly laughed in frustration. He wanted to correct her—it was adultery, not murder! And who was he doing this for, anyway?

"Comrade, maybe take a look at his face before jumping to conclusions."

Nan Sheng shut the door and led them to the west room. Xiao Yi explained first.

"I finished work late and had a buddy who knew where you lived. He brought me to check the place out so I could sign the contract first thing tomorrow. Then I saw this guy at your window, calling for someone before scrambling to run off. I figured he might cause trouble for you, so I knocked him out."

Nan Sheng relaxed. Of course—a businessman of his stature wouldn't act recklessly.

Xiao Yi yanked Yu Sheng's hair back, forcing his face into view. Nan Sheng's pulse jumped. He looked too familiar—she'd even felt his abs once, back when she was still the original owner. He must be here for money.

"He won't wake up suddenly, will he?"

Xiao Yi raised a brow. What, did she want to make sure he never woke up?

Nan Sheng met his gaze. "Yi-ge, since you're helping, finish the job. Take him with you when you leave—dump him anywhere."

Xiao Yi realized things weren't as he'd assumed, but it wasn't his place to pry. He signaled Little Qi to drag Yu Sheng to the living room to stand guard while he and Nan Sheng discussed business in the west room.

Sizhe listened quietly the whole time.

Xiao Yi pulled out two copies of the contract. "Everything's written as you requested. If there are no issues, I'll have my men start testing the ice-making process tomorrow. The stones—I've already arranged for saltpeter to be sourced."

Not much for now, just a trial run.

Once the contract was signed and stamped, the saltpeter ice-making formula was in Xiao Yi's hands. The detailed instructions were like treasure to him.

"Aren't you afraid I'll take the formula and skip out on payment?"

Though he had integrity, this woman's boldness was something else—partnering in business without even knowing who he was or where he came from.

Nan Sheng extended her hand. "I haven't properly introduced myself. I'm Nan Sheng. My husband is a battalion commander, and in a few days, he'll be taking up a post as a clerk at the town government office."

Xiao Yi suddenly found it hard to breathe. Damn—a black-market dealer running into a government clerk, the kind who could shut down your business with a word!

Nan Sheng teased, "No raising grain prices, got it? Or I'll report you and have the militia patrol that street every day!"

Xiao Yi quickly adjusted his attitude, shaking her hand briskly. "Wouldn't dream of it, Nan-jie! Your word is law. This is our joint venture—please go easy on us."

With Nan Sheng's government ties, the source of her ice-making formula needed no further questioning. Before leaving, Xiao Yi asked, "Nan-jie, want us to take care of him?"

Nan Sheng shot him a look. "Just some personal grudges. No need to kill anyone."

Though she didn't say more, Xiao Yi was sharp—he could see how much she despised the unconscious man. Before dumping him, he made sure to wake him up, only to knock him out again.

"Yi-ge, even if that Nan-jie works for the government, do we really have to grovel like that?"

Little Qi had a decent impression of Nan Sheng, but Xiao Yi was his role model. Seeing him fawn over her didn't sit right.

"What do you know?" Xiao Yi snapped. "From now on, show Nan-jie respect. Her government connections are a huge advantage for us. A single tip from her could feed us for years."

Right now, Xiao Yi truly saw Nan Sheng as a business benefactor—one he couldn't afford to slight.

The next day, Nan Sheng and Sizhe overslept. Worse, the boy still had school.

"Eight o'clock already. Since you're late anyway, eat first, then I'll take you."

Sizhe blinked. Shouldn't they rush to school immediately?

"Mom, Teacher Tang makes late students stand in punishment!"

Nan Sheng, busy cooking, gave him a disappointed glance. "Son, you're so naive! Just say today's your mother's death anniversary—that's why you're late. The teacher won't mind."

"I can't lie!" That was Sizhe's bottom line.

"It's not a lie! You didn't say you went to visit a grave."

Breakfast was buttered prawns and rice. After last night's excitement, both mother and son needed the energy.

As they were leaving, Siqi woke up. Nan Sheng told her to stay put—she'd be back soon.

Nan Sheng pedaled fast, arriving at the school by 8:40. Sizhe watched her, thinking, If you walk me to class, I'll serve you hand and foot for life.

But Nan Sheng turned and left without a second glance—her exit as cold as her disdain for the chatty Teacher Tang.

This was Sizhe's first time being late. At the classroom door, Teacher Tang signaled the class to study on their own.

"Lin Sizhe, why are you late? Did your stepmother refuse to let you come?"

Sizhe shook his head, murmuring, "Today's my mother's death anniversary."

Though he escaped punishment and even earned a sympathetic look from the teacher, Sizhe felt no joy—only the loss of something important.

Integrity, where have you gone?

Chapter 48

After returning home, Nan Sheng began tending to her daughter—washing her face, combing her hair, and preparing a meal.

Before the heat of the day set in, she lit the stove to boil a pot of mung bean soup, planning to chill it later with well water for a refreshing summer drink.

She wondered how many days it would take for the government and the black market to master ice-making techniques.

As for Yu Sheng, Nan Sheng didn't dwell on him. That man would rather die than tarnish his reputation; he wouldn't dare show his face again anytime soon.

If not for her fear that the Bai family might return unexpectedly, she would have taken her daughter back to her parents' home for a visit—and maybe even enjoyed a laugh at the male lead's expense.

At noon, Nan Sheng and Qiqi each drank a bowl of mung bean soup before taking a nap. When she woke, something felt off—why was the sky so dark?

She checked her watch. It was only 2:30 in the afternoon. This must be the ominous sign before a drought, just as the books had described.

For two whole days, dark clouds loomed over Huaishan County, fooling the villagers into expecting rain. But in the end, their hopes were dashed.

For those unaware of the unfolding events, these two days would be unbearable. With the sky so overcast, how could there be a drought? The debates would surely flare up again.

Nan Sheng was right. The moment the sky darkened, the entire county erupted in celebration—only to quickly turn to fury, blaming the government for its inaction.

"If we'd just waited two more days, the rain would've come! Why did they have to destroy our farmland?"

The village chief's wife was frantic. "Husband, didn't you say there'd be a drought? This looks more like rain!"

The chief remained calm. "That's even better. A good rain now means healthier crops and a better harvest in the fall."

But his wife couldn't shake her worry. True, rain would help—but if it came now, her husband would lose his position as chief and be branded a villain by the entire village.

How could their family stay in the village after that?

"This is all Lin Guozheng's fault! If he hadn't suggested destroying the extra farmland to the town head, none of this would've happened. Why should my husband bear all the blame while he walks away unscathed?"

Before evening fell, trouble erupted in the village. A neighbor rushed to Nan Sheng with news: "Lin Han's wife, hurry to the brigade office! A bunch of young folks are pressuring the chief to strip your father-in-law of his position as brigade leader!"

"Why?" Nan Sheng hadn't expected the first backlash to strike the Lin family.

"Word got out that your father-in-law proposed destroying half the farmland. People are furious. I don't know how things escalated like this…"

By the time Nan Sheng reached the brigade office, the crowd was in an uproar.

"Why shouldn't he be removed? Lin Guozheng doesn't deserve to be brigade leader! He's starving the whole village! And that daughter-in-law of his—if she hadn't blabbed about a drought, would we be in this mess?"

"Exactly! It's all the Lin family's fault! We demand a new brigade leader!"

The faces of the young villagers, once familiar, now twisted with hostility. The chief felt a pang of heartache. "Who told you this was Old Lin's idea?"

His gaze swept over the brigade leaders. Nan Sheng wouldn't betray her own family, and Zhou Ren and the others clearly had no clue—they'd only just arrived.

Then it hit him. That night he'd returned, he'd mentioned it to his wife. But surely she wouldn't…?

She knew better than anyone his bond with Old Lin.

"Quiet! Listen to me!" the chief bellowed. "I know you're angry, but the order to destroy the crops came from the town leaders. I, Feng Wuquan, was the one who carried it out. Why blame Old Lin?"

His eyes locked onto the troublemakers—mostly hotheaded young men and petty wives.

"I've been village chief since I was thirty. For nearly twenty years, I've treated everyone fairly. Back when our village had little farmland, I led your parents to dig ditches and expand the fields so you'd have food and clothes. When the village was too poor to afford fertilizer, Old Lin and I knelt before the commune leaders every year, begging for credit. For five years, we endured the shame while other chiefs watched. Did we ever take an extra grain for ourselves?

Today, even if the whole village gathered here, you'd have no right to remove me or Old Lin from our posts—unless we choose to step down ourselves!"

Silence fell over the crowd. Whether from shame or speechlessness, no one uttered a word.

Then a voice rang out from the entrance: "Well said!"

It was Uncle Chen Si, five years the chief's senior. Just days ago, he'd been among those cursing the chief. Now he stood with a group of elders, their weathered faces stern. They'd lived through hardship together—no grudges held, but no tolerance for foolishness either.

And he hadn't expected his own grandson to be among the agitators.

Who did these youngsters think they were? The old guard wasn't dead yet!

"Gou Shengzi! Get over here!"

Chen Sheng's heart sank. When his grandfather used his childhood nickname, a beating was guaranteed.

He wasn't alone. Every troublemaker with an elder present was dragged aside—and the reprimands were far from gentle.

The chief exchanged a glance with Lin Guozheng before hauling his own wife home by the arm. The Lin family didn't linger either; Nan Sheng took her daughter and followed the others back to the ancestral home.

Lin Guozheng stood rigid, his face unreadable, fury and injustice churning inside him.

"Do you all think the same? That Nan Sheng shouldn't have warned of the drought? That I shouldn't have proposed destroying the farmland?"

Eldest Brother Lin frowned. How could that be? But the expressions on his wife and sister-in-law Sun Qian's faces told another story.

"The drought was predicted by experts! Father acted for the village's sake. He did nothing wrong!"

Sun Qian muttered, "It'd have been better if the fields weren't destroyed. Can we really trust the experts?"

So even his own family felt this way?

When things went well, all was harmony. But let one "mistake" be made, and the accusations poured in.

Suddenly, the villagers' betrayal didn't sting as much. His own flesh and blood weren't much better.

Chapter 49

Eldest Brother Lin couldn't bring himself to scold his sister-in-law, so he turned his anger on his younger brother instead.

"Third Brother Lin, are you dead or just mute? How much have Mom and Dad done for your family? And now your wife dares to speak to Dad like that—you two are the most ungrateful pair!"

Third Brother Lin stiffened, considering berating his wife to smooth things over. But when Sun Qian glared at him, he immediately backed down—what if she refused to let him into bed tonight? He still hoped for another son.

"Dad, don't take Sun Qian's words to heart. She's just ignorant. It won't happen again."

Lin Guozheng scoffed. A tree wouldn't grow straight without pruning, and a son wouldn't learn filial piety without discipline. It was time to teach this couple a lesson.

"Of course I won't hold it against her. But from now on, Third Brother Lin, don't come to me for anything. I might as well have raised a block of wood. Get out!"

The couple brushed it off—being scolded was routine for them. Sun Qian stood up, yanked her husband's arm, and stormed out to avoid further humiliation.

Eldest Brother Lin spat in frustration, "Spineless!"

Lin Guozheng sighed. "I won't be team leader much longer. I plan to let Zhou Ren take over. Daughter-in-law Nan Sheng, your job as work-point recorder might not come back either."

Nan Sheng smiled. "Lin Han earns a salary. The three of us can buy grain and won't starve."

Zhou Wei scowled. "Your family's doing just fine. Personally, I think Dad shouldn't step down. So what if people complain? It's not like they're taking flesh from you."

Though the team leader position didn't pay, Dad earned full work points year-round. If he retired, what could a man his age even do?

Soon, their own household might run short, forcing their sons to chip in.

Eldest Brother Lin stood abruptly. "Dad, talk with the others first. I need to go home."

He dragged Zhou Wei away by the arm. Sensing trouble, she stammered, "I was wro—mmph!"

He clamped a hand over her mouth and hauled her back to their side of the compound. Sizhong was out trapping game in the mountains, leaving only Sicheng home—too young to stop his enraged father. The boy sprinted to his grandfather for help.

"Grandpa! Aunt Nan Sheng! Come quick—Dad's going to beat Mom to death!"

That ox-hide belt, a gift from the Village Chief, was thick and heavy. A single lash raised welts and tore skin. Sicheng knew firsthand—years ago, after trampling a grave mound for fun, he'd tasted its bite.

Lin Guozheng sighed. He'd meant to discuss the weather with the family, but chaos had overtaken the evening.

The sky did look ominously dark, yet where were the clouds?

No clouds meant no rain.

Nan Sheng handed Qiqi to Sicheng. "Your mother never knows when to hold her tongue. Challenging your grandfather in front of your father—what did she expect?"

Sicheng knew his mother's sharp tongue brought trouble, but he couldn't let her be beaten to death. "Please, Aunt, go talk sense into them!"

By the time Nan Sheng arrived, Lin Guozheng had already ordered his son to stop. But Eldest Brother Lin, furious, gripped his wife's leg and dragged her toward the gate.

"Go back to your parents. I'm done with you. Let's see what fine husband you'll find now!"

Lin Guozheng barked at his son, "Enough! Sicheng and Siqi are watching."

But Eldest Brother Lin stood firm. "Dad, I mean it."

He was getting older, needing to save for his sons' weddings. Zhou Wei would never change—as long as she stayed, she'd drain their resources for her birth family. He'd tolerated it for years out of duty.

But today, her disrespect toward his father crossed a line. Parents sacrificed their lives for their children—not to endure daughters-in-law's contempt.

He couldn't control other men's wives, but his own? That he could.

"Zhou Wei, your family got bride-price when we married. I won't demand it back. Just get out and never return!"

Zhou Wei had taken five or six belt strikes across her back—now numb and burning. Seeing Lin Jianguo's resolve, she decided to retreat to her parents' home for a few days.

"Fine, I'll go. Don't you dare regret this, Lin Jianguo!"

With two sons still here, she'd surely return.

Sicheng started after her, but Nan Sheng called him back. "That ointment we used on Sizhe's bruises worked well. Fetch it from our place for your mother."

Eyes red, the boy nodded. A child's heart ached most when parents warred. "Thank you, Aunt."

"Don't fret too much. Aren't your maternal grandparents struggling? This'll show your mother where their loyalties lie."

At his confusion, she explained, "If they truly care, they'll shelter her—no matter how poor—until your father apologizes. But if they see her as a burden? Watch—they'll send her packing within days. Then she'll finally prioritize your family."

Somewhat reassured, Sicheng took the ointment and raced after Zhou Wei. She stumbled along the road, sobbing, her clothes torn and ragged.

"Mom! Wait!"

At the sight of him, she wept harder. "At least my son cares."

He draped his own shirt over her shoulders—no one should see his mother in tatters.

"Aunt Nan Sheng sent this ointment. It helped Sizhe heal last time."

Zhou Wei had cursed Nan Sheng earlier for not intervening. Now, clutching the medicine, she grudgingly admitted the woman had some decency.

"Your father's too cruel. I'll stay with your grandparents until your brother's back from work. Both of you must persuade that mule to fetch me home!"

Sicheng agreed, escorting her to the edge of her parents' village before turning back. The oppressive, stagnant air mirrored the unrest simmering across every hamlet.

Villagers railed against the Village Chief, the town head, the experts—chaos everywhere.

County officials, buckling under pressure, called the city to question the experts' predictions—only to be reprimanded sharply.

Yu Feng's nerves frayed, though the saltpeter ice project offered distraction.

If they could produce ice, maybe it would cool tempers along with tongues.

At the Village Chief's home:

The children shielded their mother. "Dad, stop! She's sorry!"

The Village Chief slapped his eldest son. "Anyone who interferes gets the same! Your mother's heart is rotten—afraid I'd lose my position, she incited the village against Old Lin! Is that human behavior?"

How could he face Lin Guozheng now? Decades of friendship, ruined!

The Feng sons seethed. The moment their father left, someone had exposed the truth—Village Chief's wife had spread the rumors, claiming her husband shielded Lin Guozheng. The crowd, inflamed, had demanded the team leader's removal.

"She was wrong. We'll all apologize to Uncle Lin. But Mom's worked hard all these years—have mercy!"

The Village Chief slumped, misery etched on his face. "You go. I've no right to see him again."

Chapter 50

When Sizhe came home from school looking upset, Nan Sheng couldn't help but laugh. "Did you really get punished by standing all day? Let me make you something good to make up for it!"

He mumbled a reluctant "No," too embarrassed to admit he'd lied.

After washing his face, Sizhe walked into the room and was stunned by the feast before him.

Noodles made from a mix of wheat and corn flour, chilled in cold water and topped with a rich meat and egg sauce.

A plate of shredded cucumber was set aside to mix in, cutting through the richness.

All his petty worries forgotten, he eagerly mixed the noodles and devoured them. Nan Sheng ate a small plate, Siqi managed a small bowl, while Sizhe polished off two full plates and still wanted more.

As Nan Sheng was washing the dishes, her son walked into the kitchen.

"Mom, everyone says it's going to rain."

"Do you think it will?"

Sizhe shook his head honestly. "I can't tell. The sky's just really dark, like it always is before it rains."

Nan Sheng was glad her son was opening up to her. "Rain comes from the clouds in the sky. Think about it—whenever it rained before, wasn't the sky dark with clouds? And when the clouds drifted away or thinned out, didn't the rain stop?"

Sizhe thought carefully and realized she was right. He ran outside to check, but despite the oppressive heat and gloom, there wasn't a single cloud in sight.

How strange.

"Mom, the weather's so weird! There are no clouds, no rain, and it's so stuffy!"

"Did you forget what the experts said? We're heading into a drought. It'll only get hotter from here, and your school might even close."

Keeping kids cooped up in sweltering classrooms would only make them sick.

"Mom, will that man come back?"

Sizhe was talking about Yu Sheng. Yesterday had been a scare—first fearing Yu Sheng might be badly hurt, then worrying he'd return.

"Even if he does, we have nothing to fear. To be honest, he liked one of the educated youth in the village and lied to me about marrying me. Back then, I was naive and believed him. Taking some money from him wasn't unfair—he ate plenty of my food too."

Romance was beyond Sizhe's understanding, but he remembered how his mother had often skipped meals—probably to save money for him.

What a terrible man!

"Mom, when Dad comes back, I won't tell him!"

Nan Sheng laughed again. "It's fine. Even if you don't, I will. Your dad was married once before—he can't judge me for having a past."

Sizhe thought about it and realized she had a point. He'd been overcomplicating things.

"But is it safe to do business with the black market?"

That so-called Brother Yi didn't seem like a good person—quick to hit people, quick to drag them away.

"Once the drought passes, ice won't be as valuable. I'll stop partnering with him and just sell him the recipe. He's a hustler, making money under the table. Once I start working at the town government, no one will dare bully our family."

Nan Sheng answered all of Sizhe's questions patiently, easing his worries until he could finally sleep soundly.

But by the next day, the sky was even darker and muggier, yet not a single drop of rain fell. Some villagers whispered it was divine punishment, a sign of impending disaster.

When they went to the village chief, he dismissed them, telling everyone to go about their work as usual.

The day before, Nan Sheng's family had gone to the Lin household to apologize. Old Lin accepted their gifts, knowing they were trying to spare him embarrassment.

But the guilt still gnawed at him—he felt he'd failed his sworn brother.

Before noon, good news arrived from town: the government and the black market had mastered ice production. Little Qi rode over on his bicycle, carrying a thickly insulated box filled with ice, wrapped in a quilt for extra protection.

"Nan Sheng, Brother Shitou and the others said it's too hot, so from now on, I'll bring ice whenever I deliver messages."

Little Qi placed the box inside before they stepped out to talk. "You deliver messages all day and work at night—can you handle it?"

Nan Sheng was surprised to learn Little Qi was also working for the black market.

"My family's poor, and my mother's sick. One job's not enough to survive. Luckily, Brother Yi doesn't mind me tagging along to earn extra."

Nan Sheng didn't pry further. "Is this box hard to make? If it's easy, bring two more next time. I'd like to send some to my parents and in-laws."

"Easy! Brother Yi had a bunch made just for storing ice—they sell them together. I'll bring extras next time."

Nan Sheng couldn't help but admire Xiao Yi's business sense. No wonder he was so successful.

As for the government job, Nan Sheng wasn't in a hurry—and neither was the mayor. With the rain still holding off, he was waiting for the right moment.

Another night passed, the heat growing even more suffocating. Little Qi arrived not just with fresh ice but two more insulated boxes, both packed full.

"Nan Sheng, I'm around often—just let me know if you need anything."

Nan Sheng poured him a bowl of mung bean soup and dropped in a piece of ice. "No need for formalities. I should be thanking you for going out of your way to deliver this. Every two days is enough—we don't need so much at once."

The small, square box held about two bowls of ice. Nan Sheng didn't plan to overuse it—just enough to keep the family from heatstroke.

"Alright, I'll let Brother Shitou know."

After Little Qi left, Siqi stared longingly at the ice. "Can I have a piece?"

Nan Sheng patted her head and fixed her a bowl of mung bean soup with a small ice cube. "Just a little. Too much cold isn't good for girls—you'll regret it when you're older."

When she took her daughter to deliver ice to Lin Guozheng, the old man was visibly surprised. He popped a piece into his mouth immediately. "Where'd you get ice?"

"Bought it from the black market. From now on, have Sicheng come by every two days with the box to pick some up. Don't risk heatstroke—this weather's deadly!"

The news about the town government's ice production had come from Little Qi. The mayor was keeping it quiet for now, but even once it spread, no village would be able to use ice as freely as their family.

At best, each village might get one box kept at the community center, with the elderly and children getting priority.

Lin Guozheng was touched. "You've really thought of everything."

Who would've guessed? Of all his daughters-in-law, the one who'd caused the most trouble was also the most filial. He couldn't ask for more.

"If the ice is too expensive, don't worry about us old folks. We've lived through worse—we'll manage."

Nan Sheng didn't dwell on it. The ice was free for her, after all.

"Grandpa, could you watch the house for me? I've got another box to take to my parents."

"Of course. Take your time—stay the night if you need to."

"I couldn't! I'd worry leaving Sizhe alone."

With her daughter riding along, Nan Sheng set off for Wangshan Village. The little girl clung to her waist, the icebox wrapped in a padded jacket resting on her lap.

"Mom, why isn't the wooden box cold if there's ice inside?"

"Because you can't touch the ice directly, so you don't feel it!"

Chatting back and forth, mother and daughter soon reached Wangshan Village.

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