Chapter 81: All Went Into the Pig’s Mouth?
Si Chen’s brow furrowed slightly, responding in an indifferent tone, "I remember now." He showed no sign of joy upon recognizing Ma Xiulan.
Yet the smile on Ma Xiulan’s face had only gotten brighter, "Brother Si Chen, your wife is so beautiful, like a fairy descended from the heavens. You are indeed fortunate."
Si Chen nodded politely at Ma Xiulan as a form of acknowledgment, then turned to Tong Yao and said, "Mom has returned with the meat. Let’s go home and make dumplings."
Before Tong Yao could respond, Ma Xiulan interrupted enthusiastically, "Sister-in-law, go ahead and make the dumplings! I’ll come over this afternoon to play with you and Xiaohui."
Having said that, Ma Xiulan shot Tong Yao a covert wink only they both could understand. In response, Tong Yao offered her a knowing, reassuring smile, easing Ma Xiulan’s concerns somewhat.
A monthly salary of a hundred yuan was a fortune in rural areas. As long as Tong Yao didn’t mention it to Si Chen, things would remain stable.
If Brother Hutou knew she had lured a woman as resplendent as a fairy, he would be thrilled. Surely, there would be a considerable sum waiting for her during the New Year’s bonus distribution.
Glancing at the house’s entrance, Ma Xiulan felt a sudden wave of melancholy. This was a home she could no longer return to. It was somewhat saddening to realize that she might miss this place she had always scorned once it was out of reach. Truly, humans were gluttons for punishment.
This time, she brought back fifteen hundred yuan, enough to build three new tiled houses. With homes of their own, her elder and younger brothers wouldn’t need to worry about getting married. She had fulfilled her duties as a good daughter, not letting her family down.
Tong Yao, following Si Chen back home, caught a glimpse of Ma Xiulan still watching them as they turned the corner. She quickly looked away.