Chapter 18 - 17: Dreams Shattered
After the structure of the house was erected, everyone breathed a sigh of relief. At least they managed to build the house before it snowed. Although the house was still a bit damp and the kang was just completed, it was no longer a big problem.
"I’ll take a break for a couple of days, then go up the mountain to catch some game, and chop some firewood. In a few days, I’ll invite everyone over for a meal."
The villagers helped without asking for wages; they were all good relationships coming to help. Zhao Gang had also helped many people in the village before, which is why so many came to help this time. Otherwise, it would have been quite tricky.
The villagers don’t take a wage, but once the house is built, it is mandatory to invite those who helped for a meal.
"Alright." Everyone knew the Zhao Family’s situation, with just two strong laborers, even the kids were put to work, and many things needed to be done. Besides, they had been busy for so long; they needed to rest and then repair their own house.
They went hunting if they needed game, collected firewood if they needed firewood; after all, Zhao Gang’s meal was just a matter of time.
Gong Ruini was incredibly excited these days. As the house was built day by day, her heart felt like it was growing with grass, and she would go to see it every night. This was their house, after all.
Zhao Xuran was also very excited; finally, he had a room of his own, though not very independent. But it was better than squeezing in with his parents.
Zhao Guangran didn’t quite like it; for him, it meant he could no longer sleep beside his parents, "I don’t want to live here."
The four kids were happily circling around the house. Due to concerns over dining issues at home, the newly built room was partitioned into two large parts, one for dining and serving as a guest room if visitors came.
The side near the adults’ room was divided into the children’s room, but it was separated into two inner and outer rooms. The inner room was smaller, and when Gong Ruini grew up, it would become her own boudoir, while the outer room was where the boys would stay.