Chapter 1574: Think Carefully Before Speaking (20)
At the village entrance, Yang Peili had a tobacco pipe tucked at his waist, his hands clasped behind his back as he gazed toward the distant Xiaohong Building. Although separated by some distance, bursts of laughter occasionally drifted over faintly.
Because it was a banquet with guests coming and going, those who arrived early would eat their fill and head back. Upon seeing Yang Peili, their expressions took on a strange look momentarily, but they still greeted him with smiles. After leaving, though, they’d engage in various discussions.
"That monk who said Yang Baihe had a fortune-telling destiny back then—I bet he was wrong..."
"Not necessarily wrong. Maybe the monk was talking about Xinxin, but that old hag from the An Family forcibly pinned it on Yang Baihe instead..."
"You saying that... it could be true. All these years, they’ve been oppressing the eldest branch."
"Xinxin says she’s opening a hotpot restaurant in town and recruiting workers. I want to send my youngest son over."
"You’ve only got two sons. If the younger one goes, will there still be enough help with the farm work?"
"One tael of silver a month, plus room and board—it’s worth it. They’re even rumored to be providing clothes for all four seasons. Honestly, even if we didn’t farm, it’d still be worthwhile. Besides, I heard Xinxin’s planning to build a school, and the kids of workers at her place might get discounts if they attend."
"Now that you mention it, you’re right. I’ll go see if my wife’s brothers are interested. Better sign up early—wouldn’t get much benefit if the quota’s filled up..."
As he listened to the chatter and gossip, Yang Peili’s old face darkened significantly. He turned abruptly and hurried home.
Nowadays, Feng Caie often took the children back to her parents’ house, with Yang Baichuan tagging along. The once bustling household had grown eerily quiet.
The only sound was Yang Anshi’s constant scolding from inside.
After decades of hearing her tirades, Yang Peili, for the first time, found her voice utterly maddening and repugnant. Without hesitation, he shoved the door open with a loud bang.