Tuesday 30 June 2020

BTTS 47




Chapter 47. Let him taste honey


Zhou Qing Bai heard the two words 'his father', and his face softened by two points. Although he didn't understand her intention, he still complied.

He went to the cabinet and grabbed a pen and paper for her. Lin Qing He soaked her feet while writing what Zhou Qing Bai would buy tomorrow on it.

In general, there were a good bit of things to buy.

After completion, she showed it to Da Wa: "Do you understand?"

Da Wa frowned. Without a doubt, he couldn't understand.

"This is what your father is going to buy in the county city tomorrow. If you don’t study, you can’t understand it. None of the decent jobs will be yours. Because if you don’t study, it's like half opening eyes and be blind. Only with culture and knowledge, you won't be afraid of being overlooked wherever you go. Otherwise, you will only be able to work in this tiny village for your whole life. Look at the men in the village. They start a family at seventeen or eighteen and begin farming to raise the kids. Each and every one of them looked like 47/8 at the age of 27/8. Now, look at your father. If he had worked in the village in the past, he would have definitely been like the villagers. No escape." Lin Qing He spelled out.

Zhou Qing Bai: "..." Suddenly have a sense of crisis. What should I do? Wife seems to judge by face?

"I'm not afraid!" Zhou Da Wa declared in a daring spirit.

"Not bad. Have some manliness. It's okay if you don't study. Thinking how that you will carry a hoe like your friends' father in the future and feel that you can survive, then from tomorrow on, you get a separate meal. I should let you adapt in advance to what a life without studying is like. So that way you won't be used to a good life, and be unable to endure hardship at that time.” Lin Qing He pronounced.
"Make me a separate meal tomorrow?" Zhou Da Wa froze.

"What? Are you afraid?" Lin Qing He raised an eyebrow.

"Make it then! I'm not afraid of suffering!" Zhou Da Wa maintained.

"Good spirit! I hope you can perserve. Oh right, let's eat lean pork congee tomorrow." Lin Qing He told Zhou Qing Bai.

"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai nodded seriously.

He had no complaint with the way she educated their son. But his wife's word was written elegantly. So pretty to look at.

It's been so many years, and she had never written a letter to him.

Lin Qing He wasn't worried about being exposed because the original owner did not write any letters to Zhou Qing Bai. The original owner had been to primary school for three years, which the original owner finally won after much difficulty.

Therefore, it was normal to be able to read and recognize words. At that time of the marriage proposal, the Zhou family said it was a plus to be able to read and write.

That night Zhou Qing Bai didn't leave. No matter how much Lin Qing He glared at him, it was useless. So she arranged for him to sleep at the head of the Kang. Zhou Qing Bai wasn't dismayed about the Kang head.

One step at a time.

"Father, are you sleeping with us tonight?" Da Wa had forgotten the life of tomorrow. His eyes brightened.

"En, save some firewood. Don't need to heat the kang next door." Zhou Qing Bai's reason was so upright.

Lin Qing He was too lazy to comment. As if she didn't know about his thoughts but she didn't care. She cuddled San Wa as the mother and sons dozed off.

Seeing how far she was away from him, Zhou Qing Bai was very helpless. Fortunately, he was allowed to enter the room.

The next morning, Zhou Qing Bai went out for a morning run like usual. Lin Qing He got up and cooked sesame lean pork congee. As for Da Wa, it was just a few pieces of cornmeal pancake and that was it.

She won't be soft-hearted at all. Let him experience his future life and see if he'll study then.

While Zhou Da Wa, he felt like he was picked on. He chewed on cornmeal pancake in the morning, which was accompanied by water as a drink. His father, mother, and younger brothers ate sesame lean pork congee with sunny-side-up!

He had only a few cornmeal pancakes. The rest was a few pickles and nothing else!

"Don’t be dissatisfied. Many people in the village eat sweet potato noodles. You need to be content with cornmeal pancakes. When you grow up and get married later, you won’t be living with us. You'll live by yourself," Lin Qing He said.

Zhou Da Wa felt that his future days were dark without any daylight.

Zhou Er Wa didn't dare to say anything. He certainly wouldn't want to live that kind of day. When he grows up later, he must listen to his mother and study hard!

"I'm heading to the leader's house to borrow a bicycle." Zhou Qing Bai told her.

"Shall we buy one too?" Lin Qing He smoothly followed up.

Zhou Qing Bai nodded solemnly: "We must have one at home."

"Then wait a bit, I'll get you money and coupons!" Lin Qing He quickly uttered.

She doesn't feel it was a loss when it comes to buying a bicycle, even if a bicycle requires more than a hundred yuans and many industrial coupons. It wasn't like they can't afford now.

The most important thing was that she can go to Mei Jie to get pork in the future. She was familiar with Mei Jie now and knew that Mei Jie's man killed the pigs in the pork farm.

She can discuss with Mei Jie and Mei Jie will definitely be willing. The max price of a jin of meat was almost six dimes and let Mei Jie profit one dime. It wasn't a big problem to take three or four jins. When she goes to the county city and sell it, she will get about five yuan.

Although it wasn't much money, it was just one day of work, which was almost equivalent to other's one month's salary.

After buying the bike and use it for a few months, she'll get the money back. So there was no need to worry about losing money at all.

Da Wa heard this and his eyes lit up: "Our family is going to buy a bicycle?"

"Yeah." Lin Qing He put the money and coupons in a parcel and handed it to Zhou Qing Bai.

"Can I ride it in the future?" Da Wa asked.

"If you go to school in the county city in the future, I can buy one for yourself." Lin Qing He replied.

Da Wa widened his eyes in surprise, but soon his face frowned in dilemma.

Lin Qing He didn't mind it anymore. Toward the Zhou Qing Bai who halted there, waiting for her farewell, she said, "Be careful on the road." Forget it, let him taste honey.

Not only did she advised him to be careful on the way, but she also gave him a sweet smile.

Satisfied, Zhou Qing Bai head out with a bag and a basket.

Lin Qing He directed to Da Wa: "You eat maize mash at noon."

"Then what are you eating?" Da Wa couldn't resist saying.

"We will wait for your father to come back before eating dumplings at noon." Lin Qing He responded.

Da Wa's small face collapsed. Recently, he became spoiled from Lin Qing He's care. When he was with his biological mother, he wasn't picky about maize mash. And sometimes he had to eat dried sweet potatoes. That was disgusting.

If he doesn't want to study, Lin Qing He won't act considerately. She gave Er Wa and San Wa a white rabbit candy each. None for Da Wa.

"Why don't I get one!" Da Wa angrily burst out.

"Why else? Do you recall your little friends ever eating a white rabbit candy? Their father didn't study when he was a kid, so your son doesn't get white rabbit candy either. So you have to get used to this kind of life. Don't argue with me." Lin Qing He stood firm.



Monday 29 June 2020

BTTS 46




Chapter 46. Studying is useless

After an enjoyable wipedown, Lin Qing He felt comfier. As for her hair, she'll wash it after dinner. She had to cook dinner later.

Zhou Qing Bai knocked on the door and came in to dump the water. He wiped himself and felt refreshed from top to toe.

After pouring out the water, he came in. Lin Qing He looked at him: "If it's okay, how about going to the county city tomorrow?"

"What are you going to buy?" Zhou Qing Bai nodded and asked.

"Nothing much. Just go and see if there any snacks like red dates. You can buy some cloth back. I will take it to Eldest Sister-in-law to make two more pieces for you." Lin Qing He responded.

"You make." Zhou Qing Bai stared at her.

"I don't know how to. All of the boys are made by Eldest Sister-in-law, Third Sister-in-law and Zhou Xi." Lin Qing He said.

"I'll teach you." Zhou Qing Bai persisted.

"You know how to make clothes?" Lin Qing He uttered in shock.

Zhou Qing Bai shook his head: "No."

Lin Qing He retorted in displeasure: "How can you teach me if you don't know?"

"I know my size, I can guide you. I will wear it whether it's good or bad." Zhou Qing Bai's eyes remained on her as he spoke.

Why did Lin Qing He hear such flirty flavor from these normal words?

But listening to him saying this, she won't be polite and said: "If you won't disdain and not be afraid of me wasting cloth, then I can give it a go."

The original owner can make clothes and she molded to his size, it should be possible to try.

Last time with the boys', she was worried that it'll be ruined in her hand. Since there were no cloth coupons, it would have been ruined in vain.

But now there were a lot of coupons at home, she naturally does not worry about it. And he said it himself, it was for her to practice.

They had pumpkin rice in the evening.

Da Wa and his brothers ware especially satisfied with the food at home. When their grandpa and grandma wanted to keep them for a meal at old Zhou's house, they ran faster than anyone else.

After dinner, Zhou Qing Bai consciously collected the dishes and washed the dishes. Lin Qing He was quite satisfied with his performance, and instructed him: "Boil another pot of water later and wipe the three boys."

"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai agreed.

Da Wa whispered to his mother, "Mother, why is Father washing the dishes?"

"Why can't your father wash the dishes?" Lin Qing He directed an unsmiling smile at him.

"Because other people's fathers don't wash the dishes. My uncles never did it either." Da Wa responded.

"That's them. Your father is happy to do it. You are still young. Wait until next year, and dishwashing will be your job." Lin Qing He declared.

"Mother, you want me to wash the dishes?" Da Wa's face was filled with shock.

"What's wrong with telling you to wash the dishes? A big man doesn't even know how to wash a bowl. Did you not see your father?" Lin Qing He spoke with strong reason despite being lazy herself.

"No one else does it." Zhou Da Wa couldn't help utter.

"Other people don't have food like our family. If you want to be their son, then go. Our family has our own rules. Besides, your father knows how to. Of course, you also have to." Lin Qing He stood firm.

"It's the girls' work. If they knew it, they would laugh at elder brother." Er Wa interjected.

Even he would be included.

"Your father help Mother to wash the dishes. That proves that he is a good man. Knowing that it's not easy for Mother to manage the whole family, he willingly helps Mother to do some household chores. You helping Mother wash dishes shows that are being filial to Mother. You know Mother only gave birth to you three boys and no girl. So you are willing to wash the dishes for the mother to make it easier Mother. Why should they laugh at you? "Lin Qing He said.

Zhou Da Wa was stunned by what she said, and could not refute back at all.

"If there is any opposition, you can refute. I'll accept the debate and argue back. But if you can't beat me, then you will take turns washing." Lin Qing He stated.

"Mother, I'm only four years old!" Zhou Er Wa immediately responded.

"After the new year, you will be five years old. When you are six years old, you will wash with your elder brother. Mother knows that you are good filial children and will continue to give you yummy food in the future." Lin Qing He pronounced.

Instantly, Er Wa looked bitter.

"It's still a long time before you're were six years old. What's the worry?" Lin Qing He poked his little face.

"Mother, don't need me to wash the dishes." Er Wa leaned over and planned to act cute.

"Mother makes delicious stuff, and you aren't willing to wash a few dishes for Mother?" Lin Qing He looked at him in surprise, as if she was a little disappointed.

This frightened Er Wa to hurriedly said: "Then I'll wash for Mother when I grow up."

"I knew my Er Wa is very obedient." Lin Qing He voiced in satisfaction.

Da Wa sighed: "Mother, no matter how you look, you're like a stepmother?"

"Yeah. Stepmother would make new clothes and cotton coats for you brothers. Stepmother would buy new hats for you brothers. One per person. Stepmother would cook for you every day in different ways. I don’t know who in the village who wants me to be their stepmother.” Lin Qing He retorted.

"Hee hee, I'm kidding." Zhou Da Wa immediately said.

San Wa dashed over. His mouth called for candy.

This meant he wants to eat white rabbit candy.

Lin Qing He pointed out: "Can't eat candy just after eating. Wait until tomorrow."

The three packs of white rabbit candy that she bought last time, only two packs were left at home. The three brothers have already gobbled up one pack.

San Wa was still clamoring to eat, and Lin Qing He went to cut an apple for him to nibble. He settled down once something was stuffed in his mouth.

Lin Qing He let the brothers play on the Kang, as she continued to knit.

Zhou Qing Bai, who was doing the dishes, heard the laughter of the children in the room, as well as her occasional jokes. His heart couldn't be any warmer.

After washing the dishes, he scooped up hot water and came in to wipe them. Each time he wiped down one, he sat them on a small chair to soak their feet.

They were all tidied up by Zhou Qing Bai. Lin Qing He watched as she knitted woolen pants. She didn't intervene.

But she did pay attention to them. Although Zhou Qing Bai didn't talk much, he still had the potential of a stay-at-home dad. He took meticulous care of kids.

After washing their feet and drying them, he drove them all up the Kang.

Then he brought in Lin Qing He's private footbath and let her soak her feet. Lin Qing He showed no hesitation. As she soaked, she mentioned: "Tomorrow when you're at the county city, check if there are any pens and papers. Buy some for Da Wa. He's seven after the new year and can be sent to the team to study. "

"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai acceded.

Da Wa yelled out from that side: "Study? Why study? I plan to go to collect work points with my father next year!"

"It's not a problem to earn work points while studying." Lin Qing He said.

"I'm not going!" Da Wa immediately maintained.

"Why not?" Lin Qing He asked.

"Studying is useless!" Da Wa groaned.

"Studying is useless? Where did you hear that from?" Lin Qing He stared at him.

"My Second Aunt. She said that studying is useless. Didn't those urban educated youth also study? They still end up working in the countryside." Da Wa said.

"His father, go fetch the pen and paper." Lin Qing He ordered Zhou Qing Bai.

Sunday 28 June 2020

BTTS 45




Chapter 45. No patient's treatment

Lin Qing He wasn't as carefree as she appeared. She couldn't sleep at all. She was disturbed by the man next door. What was happening?

Didn’t they come into an agreement when he returned? Everyone sleeps in separate rooms. The three boys sleep with her and he can sleep next door by himself. Why was he acting like this? He obviously wanted to return to here to sleep.

She must hold on. She cannot comply with everything according to his desire, otherwise, he would really think she was kind-hearted!

After secretly deciding, Lin Qing He dozed off.

The winter nap was also very comfortable. Lin Qing He slept until 2:30 in the afternoon. When she woke up, she saw Zhou Qing Bai sitting there on the edge of Kang. As for the sons, she didn’t know where they ran off to.

In this snowy weather, the three brothers can still mess about. Lin Qing He was prevailed by them. Their energy was like it was limitless.

"Where're the boys?" Although she knew it in her heart, Lin Qing He couldn't find anything else to talk about on the surface, so she asked.

Zhou Qing Bai sat next to her and at her words, he spoke: "Grab an apple and went to their grandparent's side."

Lin Qing He nodded and said, "Is the injury on your body completely healed?" If it's healed, then it's time to go to the mountain to see if there are rabbits or pheasants. Don't think about how to get back to my room at home all day.

"You check." Zhou Qing Bai said and started to undressed.

Lin Qing He: "..." On such cold day, you undress out of nowhere. What kind of flirty process is this?

Zhou Qing Bai only had three pieces on him. One was close-fitting top, one was the sweater knitted by Lin Qing He, and lastly was a military coat.

He came over and sat on her kang. Without the military coat, he only had two pieces, and they soon came off.

Lin Qing He saw that his injury was basically fine, and uttered: "It looks fine, but I don't know about the inside. Let's nurture it so more."

"Wife." Zhou Qing Bai just stared at her without putting on his clothes.

"On this cold day, are you not cold? Hurry up and dress. Don't catch a cold and need me to wait on you." Lin Qing He didn't dare to meet his eyes and waved her hand.

"I'll go back to the room tonight." Zhou Qing Bai put on his clothes and announced lightly.

This held no room for discussion with her. It felt like it was just letting her know.

Lin Qing He was still muddled even after he left. Then she snorted and mentally voiced out, you can try returning the room tonight!

After resting on the bed for a while, Lin Qing He took some grapes out of the space and secretly snacked on them.

She occasionally fed San Wa the grapes. Only Sanwa. No one else gets it. There was no other choice. They were too big. Too expressive. They can accidentally expose this.

Then she examined the supplies in the space again.

Have to say, the materials in the space were consumed a good chunk during this time. There were half of the apples left. The pears was also half. This was consumed relatively less. The most she took out was the apples for the three children to snack on.

More than half a box of grapes was left. She ate this by herself occasionally, and then fed San Wa once in a while. Not much got depleted.

This was fruit. As for the supplies, four bags of rice was consumed. One bag equivalent to 20 jins.

Flour was used more, almost ten bags.

One large bag of pork had eaten and there were seven bags left. Over a dozen jin of eggs were consumed and there were still many left.

The others were rock sugar, brown sugar and the like, most of them still remained.

After inventorying these materials in her own space, Lin Qing He was in a good mood. She suddenly remembered that she had to collect some stamps and the likes and keep it for its value increase in the future. As for which specific set, she had forgotten. In short, just collect them.

Wait until which day, when she go to the county city, she'll go to the post office to buy it.

Lin Qing He got off the Kang, started dinner preparation. Pumpkin rice for tonight.

Stir-fry the pumpkin with the meat, and then add the steamed rice to it. Stir it together to make the pumpkin rice. For soup, just stew seaweed soup.

Simple and nutritious.

Zhou Qing Bai was boxing in the yard. Lin Qing He saw it but act like she didn't. She directly headed over to the kitchen and busied around. After washing the rice, she soaked it. It was still too early, so there's time.

Lin Qing He soaked the rice and went back to the room to continue knitting pants.

Although their brothers have sweaters, but they still don't have woolen pants. The weather was too cold, that she can't stand it. Although the children are full of vitality, they still need to be kept warm.

After Zhou Qing Bai practiced boxing, he sweated a lot. He planned to take a bath.

Lin Qing He said to him when she knew it: "During this weather, what bath? There's no bathroom. If you aren't afraid of freezing, you should go!"

Really thinking too much. Finding matters out of no matter.

"Wait for spring! At that time, we'll build a bathroom." Hearing this, Zhou Qing Bai decided.

"En, you'll figure it out at that time. As for how much money, talk then." Lin Qing He supported this.

Without taking a bath, she can only wipe himself. Which was really unbearable for her. Fortunately, she doesn't sweat in the winter, otherwise, she can't live.

"Just heat some water and wipe yourself." Lin Qing He saw that he sweated and uttered.
"I have to change my clothes." Zhou Qing Bai looked at her.

Want to change, then change. Why tell me?

"After you changed out of your clothes, go heat some water. There's soap at home. Wash it yourself." Lin Qing He won't baby him. Simply said.

Zhou Qing Bai looked at her helplessly. When he first came back, she took good care of everything. Saying everything won't be an overstatement. Now there was no such treatment.

He had to wash his clothes by himself.

Of course, he knew how to. He washed his own when he was alone. But bothered him a little was her uncaring attitude.

Lin Qing He pretended to not notice. Men, these creatures can't be pampered. They can only be used, otherwise, they'll be worst the more you spoil.

After standing for a while, Zhou Qing Bai witnessed that she had no other gesture and knew that his wife was a hard-hearted.

Probably because his injuries were better, so there was no special treatment for the wounded?

Zhou Qing Bai felt that he found the truth. He began to boil water.

"Wife, do you want to wipe yourself as well?" Zhou Qing Bai asked when he finished heating the water.

Lin Qing He, who was knitting, thought it was good to wipe herself, and responded: "OK, you can use my washbasin and scoop some for me."

Zhou Qing Bai was delighted to serve his wife. He scooped a pot of hot water in. The temperature was just right.

After putting it down, he said: "Wife, wipe yourself while it's hot. It'll be cold in a bit and become easier to catch the chill."

"En, you go out." Lin Qing He put down the one-third finished wool pants and nodded.

Zhou Qing Bai came out and filled a washbasin. Then he went to the next door to wipe his body.

Although it was just a body wipe, she must say that her whole person felt comfortable after the wipedown. Lin Qing He wiped herself every day, otherwise, she can’t sleep.

Lin Qing He also wanted to wash her hair. After counting, it seemed to half a month since she last washed her hair... This cold weather was such a pain.

Saturday 27 June 2020

BTTS 44




Chapter 44. Barred from the room

Sister Mei smiled: "You are so lucky. You didn't see it. After he came yesterday, many people were enquiring about him."

With that appearance as well as the upright temperament, not any average girl can match up to him. Must say, she saw Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai, and they were really compatible.

A talented man and beautiful woman, no wonder they can come together.

Lin Qing He didn't care about this stuff and changed the topic. She said, "The sap I gave you last time, is it good?"

"It's very efficient. My eldest Guzi asked me where I bought it. I said the county city. She also said that the county city did not sell such a good soap." Mei Jie whispered.

Lin Qing He also lowered her voice: "I bought it last time after circling around the black market in the city. That person said that it came from the city. I didn't believe it. Now I hear this, it might be true."

"That's no wonder." Mei Jie nodded.

That piece of soap was really good to use. She didn't want to waste it, so now around half of it was left.

Then she gave pork and ribs and so on to Lin Qing He. And also three jins of kerosene. Although it was spending money, it didn't cost much. Altogether cost three yuan or so.

However, Lin Qing He bought two jins of apples with the subsidiary food coupon. As for the rest, she didn't buy anymore. There was still a lot left at home.


Mei Jie asked: "A few jars of honey arrived a few days ago. Now there is one jar left. Do you want it? No subsidiary coupons required."

"What does it look like?" Lin Qing He's eyes lit up. She knew that the honey at this time was 100% pure honey. The benefits of honey were plentiful.

Sister Mei took it out and showed it to her. The honey was naturally of good quality. A jar was about three jins, but the price was not cheap. Such a jar of honey cost five yuan.

Lin Qing He bought it with no hesitation.

She bid goodbye to Mei Jie and came to the small street again to buy a jin of eggs. They were all sold by a rural person. The eggs were not expensive. She bought a jin for three dimes.

The rest was poured out of the space. Then she went home.

After returning home, Lin Qing He passed the crystallized honey to Zhou Qing Bai: "Put it in the room."

"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai put the honey in the room, and then came out to wait for her arrangement.

Lin Qing He had an urge to laugh a little. Did this man treat her as his boss? She took out the meat, bones, and ribs from the basket, and give him the basket: "You put it with the rest."

Zhou Qing Bai did as told.

The reason why she got him to go to Mei Jie yesterday was to display a known source for the meat.

This way he knows where the meat came from in the future.

Lin Qing He chopped the big bone herself, and then put it in the casserole pot. The big bone was stewed with soybeans. This was also very nourishing.

Da Wa and his brothers were over at the old Zhou's house. There were more siblings over there, so the three brothers usually go there to play. Or they would go to another villager's house in the village to play.

Lin Qing He didn't stop them. It was all in her own village, and such a big child should not be kept in restraint. It was good for them to go out and play.

"What are you standing there for? Grab an apple to eat." Lin Qing He saw Zhou Qingbai as soon as she turned around and spoke.

"You, go eat. Whatever needs to be done, I will do it." Zhou Qing Bai came over and said.

Male pheromones radiated from the man, making Lin Qing He's heart couldn't help but jumped fast.

"No need to treat me like a wounded person. It's completely recovered." Zhou Qing Bai stared at her as he spoke.

This gaze was a bit dangerous. Although Lin Qing He doesn't have much experience, but in the modern social environment, even if she hadn't eaten big trotters before, how could she not watch the big trotters act on TV?

Lin Qing He chose to ignore his fully suggestive words, turned to start chopping ribs, and said: "Go grab some dry beans and soak them."

"You get it, I'll handle this." Zhou Qing Bai took the knife in her hand and insisted.

Lin Qing He's hand was held by him. She was a little nervous and almost struggled, but she forcibly restrained herself.

Putting her effort to fix a relaxed and calm expression, she said: "OK. You do it."

Zhou Qing Bai started chopping the pork ribs. Lin Qing He went into the room, and then patted her chest. What's happening ah? How can she act like she never saw a man before? Just getting her hand touched by him, made her heartbeat speed up so much!

Maybe it was so long without a man, made her athirst!

After reprimanding herself for a while, Lin Qing He took the dried beans out. These were left after sun-drying last time.

She came over and saw that Zhou Qing Bai was chopping ribs. Must say this man was actually very attractive and manly.

His appearance and figure are impeccable. He was also very attentive to the family. At least Da Wa and his brothers like him very much ...

Wait, why was she thinking about this? She didn't plan for anything to happen with him.

It was fine to be so peaceful with each other. There was a difference of many years between her and him. Don't know how many generation gaps there are!

Lin Qing He walked over to soak the dried beans and saw Zhou Qing Bai wanted to chop the other two portions of ribs and fan bones. Lin Qing He blurted: "Don't chop. Wait until we eat it, then chop it. Otherwise, it will not that fresh."

"Call me when you need it cut." Zhou Qing Bai nodded.

Lin Qing He saw that he didn't have any intention to go out. In her mind, she said, the kitchen was only so big, why are you, such a big fellow, blocking around for?

Once her eyes clashed with his, she felt shy and said, "Why are you looking at me like this?"

"The injury is recovered." Zhou Qing Bai stated as he gazed at her.

And?

"Da Wa and San Wa aren't small anymore. They can sleep on their own." Zhou Qing Bai continued.

Lin Qing He knew what it meant, but it was impossible to return to her room to sleep. She was not the original owner. Nominally she was his wife, and it was only nominal.

Turning around, she started to busy herself: "What not small. Da Wa is only six years old now, and only seven years old after New Year. Now the weather is freezing. I won't feel reassured to let them sleep by themselves."

Then she began to question herself. Did she overnourished him this recently and let him have sperm swimming to his brain? (T/N:🤣)

She had known him for only so long and he wanted to enter her kang. No door. Even the window was barred.

Zhou Qing Bai knew that this meant he banned from the room and was a bit dejected. He thought she had completely let go of her intolerances, but now it seems that it was far from it.

Lin Qing He doesn't care what he thinks. At noon, there were two dishes. The stewed big bone with soybeans and the stewed ribs and dried beans were very tasty.

After eating, was an afternoon nap.
Zhou Qing Bai went back to his own room for a nap. Next door, the mother and sons dozed off.

In the next room, Zhou Qing Bai took off the newly-knitted sweater his wife had given him. He wanted to sigh.

Eat, drink, and shelter. These were all managed perfectly by his wife for him.

But the only thing was that his wife would not let him go back to the room, which made him a bit distressed. Although she was polite to him, he always had a feeling that she was taking care of a guest.

Zhou Qing Bai was lying on the kang, and remained silent for a while before taking a nap.

Previous

Guzi: in-law family's daughter a.k.a sister-in-law.

Friday 26 June 2020

BTTS 43




Chapter 43. Stick to her when there's nothing to do

"I had told Fourth Sister-in-law. Fourth Sister-in-law said she understood and won't do it anymore." Eldest Sister-in-law said.

Of course, Eldest Sister-in-law didn't say it she felt that Lin Qing He was giving her a perfunctory response. As a sister-in-law, she couldn't really teach her how to manage the family. She said what was need to be said and can't overstep with her persuasion

After Mother Zhou departed, Eldest Sister-in-law went over to Third Sister-in-law and discuss the matter of buying apples to eat. Should they group together to buy it?

Once Third Sister-in-law heard about Lin Qing He's personal experience and recalled how cute the brothers, she agreed without a second thought.

So the two of them threw in five dimes each. When they gathered the fund, they asked Eldest Brother to buy a bag of apples. The two equally split it.

Once Mother Zhou found out, she grumbled. Why did they buy this thing back? It's not like there's not enough to eat.

Brother Zhou didn't think too much. He smiled and said, "They heard from Fourth Sister-in-law that eating apples is good for the baby in her belly. She used to frequently eat it when had the boys. Now they grew up wonderfully right?"
As soon as she heard it, Mother Zhou almost missed and broke the eggs she had just took out to fry for tonight.

She sent Eldest's wife over to dissuade Fourth's wife. But not only did she fail, she and Third's wife got misled by Fourth's wife!

Does eating apples really let them become like Da Wa and his brothers? Don't think she doesn't know, when Fourth's wife was pregnant with Da Wa, she was gluttonous. She ate everything, so how can it just be apples?

It just happened that Mother Zhou couldn't say that. What can she say? Her two daughters-in-law were pregnant, so they weren't allowed to eat some apples?

They didn't come to her for money and used their own private fund.

Since this year's harvest was good, she gave each family two yuans pocket money, so they did not come to ask her for money.

The truth, Lin Qing He wasn't pulling their legs with the matter of eating apples during pregnancy. This was the best fruit during pregnancy, as it was nutritional for both the baby and mother.

What's more, it wasn't expensive, why can't they eat it?

A yuan can buy a bag-full back.

When the original owner was pregnant with the boys, she really liked eating apples. Not just apples, but everything else she could buy.

Because of the fear of giving birth would damage the mother's body, the original owner went all out.

It was for this reason, that the boys' had more nourishment in the mother's body than their peers of the same age.

They were indeed very white and tender when they were just born. Not wrinkled at all.

According to memory, Da Wa was born at about seven jins. Both Er Wa and San Wa were approximately six jins. These were very proper weights.

Many children in the village were born with around five jins. More than six jins were very few, so these quite adequate.

Lin Qing He doesn't care what the old Zhou family thinks. She was busy knitting a sweater for Zhou Qing Bai.

As for Zhou Qing Bai, he couldn't stay idle. Today he went out with the leader to bring back the piggies.

Lin Qing He saw that he could not sit still and didn't bother with him. But she still stewed a rib soup for him to drink. As for the other things, she would not interfere too much.

At noon, Zhou Qing Bai brought two little piglets back.

The two little piglets were warmly welcomed by the three boys as soon as they got home. All three huddled over to touch and pet.

Zhou Qing Bai was clearly in a good mood.

After lunch, he scrubbed the pot to cook pig food. It was still small, so not much to cook. When it gets bigger later, the portion will increase a lot. It'll be really busy at that time.

"Next year plant some more in the backyards." Zhou Qing Bai just told her.

"Fine, you manage it accordingly." Lin Qing He responded, and then compared the sweater in her hand with his body. Although she used visual inspection, she felt that her craft was great after the comparison. After a look, there was basically no discrepancy. It'll definitely fit.

Zhou Qing Bai's gaze toward her was soft. In the past few days, he really felt that his wife's impression was completely different from what she had given him in the past.

Whether she was willing to live with him, he could still tell.

These few days, she was meticulous about caring for him. She definitely held a spot for him in her heart.

Unknown to Lin Qing He, knitting a sweater made him have such a beautiful misunderstanding. As soon as she finished comparing, she looked up and found him staring at her. His eyes were very focused. Instantly she coughed in embarrassment and shifted the topic. "It's great that it's fit. You can busy away. "

"Are there any more chores to do at home?" Zhou Qing Bai didn't budge and remained looking at her.

He didn't understand that his wife had become a bit shy at the sight of him, but that didn't prevent him from watching his wife more.

He did think she was pretty before. But now, when he looked at her, he felt his wife was really attractive.

She looked white and tender. When she spoke, it was gentle. Even the educated urban youths in the countryside weren't as pretty as his wife.

Lin Qing He pondered, what's wrong with this man? When he first came back, it was neither cold or warm treatment. Starting from two days back, she kept feeling that once he was idle, he will come and stick to her?

"There's nothing to do. This winter is days of winter isolation." Lin Qing He rummaged through her mind. There was really nothing to do at home and answered.

Zhou Qing Bai gave her a final glance, and could only withdraw.

It seems that his wife still hadn't forgiven him. She did not plan on letting him go back to the room to sleep tonight.

Lin Qing He continued to knit the sweater. Zhou Qing Bai headed next door to watch his three sons naping. Since there was nothing to do now, he decided to take an afternoon nap for a while as well.

Two old hens bought by Mother Zhou a few days ago, one was stewed and the other was still kept in the chicken shed.

She planned to stew it again after a while. For now, it can live.

The two piglets in the pig shed settled down in their new home. Now they have nothing to do. Zhou Qing Bai took care of them carefully and the two piglets quickly adapted.

In a blink of an eye, more than half a month passed.

It was now mid-November.

During this period of time, the villagers had different opinions about Zhou Qing Bai's permanent stay in the village.

Of course, because of the presence of Father Zhou and Mother Zhou, there were very few gossips about Zhou Qing Bai in the village. Besides, Zhou Qing Bai wasn't freeloading from them when he returned, so it got nothing to with them.

However, there were some sayings about Lin Qing He. Especially among young women in the village who were displeased with her young miss attitude. They made a lot of ridicule in private.

In the future, won't she still head the field like them? See if she can still dress herself up as a voluptuous fox.

Because Lin Qing He had no interaction with the people in the village, Lin Qing He doesn't even know these claims outside.




Maybe it should be said she had some inkling in her mind. Due to the generation gap between them, she didn't care at all.
Lin Qing He went out this morning. Yesterday she called Zhou Qing Bai to go over to pre-order stuff with Mei Jie. Today, she came here to get it.

"That was your man yesterday?" Mei Jie asked with a grin.

"En." Although Lin Qing He verbally accepted Zhou Qing Bai as her 'husband', she was still a bit embarrassed saying that.

Thursday 25 June 2020

BTTS 42




Chapter 42. Got misled

Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law remarked that Fourth Sister-in-law was too polite. Between brothers, there was no need for so many gifts.

This move of Lin Qing He had shut Second Sister-in-law up as she had murmured the other day about her dissatisfaction with the three apples.

Now she got face slapped. Lin Qing He sent two buns, which wasn't a light gift.

"Once Fourth Brother-in-law retired, she knows how to behave. However, her life is soon going to go bad, why pretend to be a big bad wolf (like from red riding hood?)! Using buns for human relations!" At night, Second Sister-in-law grumbled to her Second Brother.

"If there is anything they need help with in the future, I'll still go." Second Brother couldn't care less about the women's thoughts as he indulged in the aftertaste.

This bun was so delicious that he can have a good dream at night.

"I had thought when Fourth Brother-in-law retired, she will cause a lot of trouble. But there's nothing at all. Say, how much much money did Fourth Brother-in-law bring back?" asked Second Sister-in-law.

"It doesn't matter how much money he brings back, it got nothing to do with us," Second Brother stated.

Second Sister-in-law shoved him: "I'm not eyeing it. I just want to ask. Wonder if there are five hundred?"

"Five hundred? You think too much. The last guy in the outer village who retired only got three hundred." Second Brother pointed out.

"Doesn't Fourth Brother-in-law often gain merits? So they can give him more?" Second Sister-in-law said.

"I say you shouldn't care about these things. I believe no amount of money is not enough for Fourth's wife to waste." Second Brother waved his hand.

Even though he was satisfied with the lunch from two days back, he was even more satisfied with today's two big white buns. But still, no matter how you look at it, Fourth's wife doesn't know how to live.

"And no matter how much money old Fourth brings back, with a swoop of a shopping trip, there'll be no income in the future." Second Brother declared.

Hearing this, Second Sister-in-law finally dropped it. This was indeed true. The old saying was right. A mountain of treasure at home can't beat daily entry of penny. With Lin Qing He's prodigal nature, how much was enough for her?

Even if a lot of money was brought back this time, it certainly wasn't enough to use.

"She used to love cleanliness so much and disdain this and that. Now, isn't she raising pigs in the backyard?" Second Sister gloated in delight.

It wasn't easy to tidy up after two piglets. It was physically taxing. And also stunk like hell.

In the future, arrogant Lin Qing He had to face the pressure of real life, which caused Second Sister-in-law to have a thrilling feeling of trampling down the phoenix.

Third Sister-in-law was pretty far along with her pregnancy, so she didn't go out. Eldest Sister-in-law came over.

Although their relationship wasn't great in the past, she was still her sister-in-law. So Eldest Sister-in-law came over to persuade her, telling her that with family, there's no need to be polite. If they need help with something, it was fine to just let them know in the future. She doesn't have to make these resource-consuming food.

Lin Qing He's impression of Eldest Sister-in-law was still pretty good. As she was an understanding person, naturally Lin Qing He was willing to get closer to her.

Third Sister-in-law was also the same. Among the sisters-in-law, it was only Second Sister-in-law she doesn't want to interact with.

"I promised Mother that I would get Third Sister-in-law two pig's trotters for breastfeeding during her post-natal confinement. When Eldest Sister-in-law gives birth, I will also grab two for you to stewed with peanuts." Staring at Eldest Sister-in-law's obvious baby bump, Lin Qing He said.

"Then I won't be shy with you." At these words, Eldest Sister-in-law's heart moved and felt Fourth's wife was very nice.

"During this stage, you should eat more apples, Eldest Sister-in-law. Don't be reluctant to. Wait for when the baby is born, then you'll be delighted." Lin Qing He advised.

"What do you say this?" Eldest Sister-in-law paused.

"Look at my boys. How do they look like? Pretty, right?." Lin Qing He said while knitting the sweater.

This sweater was for Zhou Qing Bai. He doesn't have a lot of clothes. She had to step up the pace for him. This weather was really chilling to the bones.

Fortunately, she got Zhou Dong to bring so much firewood, otherwise, the Kang doesn't have enough to burn.

"Da Wa and his brothers are really pretty." Eldest Sister-in-law couldn't help but say. This was not flattery.

Zhou Qing Bai grew up quite well. He was tall and handsome, let alone Lin Qing He. She was a flower within and outside the village when she was still at her maternal home. And it hadn’t changed much since she was married. Going out now, and say she was unmarried, people would believe it.

Don’t know if she was seeing things, but Eldest Sister-in-law felt Fourth's wife had become more good-looking. Especially in recent days. She can’t pinpoint which part looks good. It was just a feeling.

Da Wa, Er Wa, and San Wa all picked up their parents' best features. It can be said that they couldn't find such good-looking brothers out of the whole village.

And because of this, Father Zhou and Mother Zhou extremely doted on them.

Especially now that Fourth's wife gave them special care. All of them look so handsome, her eyes could drool.

"Pretty is right. Then do you know what I ate when I was pregnant with them?" Lin Qing He said.

"What did you eat?" Eldest Sister reacted.

"The thing that I have eaten the most was this apple. One a day. Buy more after finishing it. That's why the brothers are born with very good skin. Immunity system. This immunity system is their physical fitness. It's also very good. The brothers rarely catch a cold or fever." Lin Qing He explained.

"This cost a lot." Eldest Sister-in-law heard the words, exclaimed.

"It does. But why do we work so diligently in our life? It's all for the sake of the children. Can we possibly let our children lose at the starting line? At this time, one person eats, two people get nourished. And you serve the whole family. Now, what's wrong with you eating some apples while pregnant?" Lin Qing He continued.

Now that she mentioned, the words spun around Eldest Sister-in-law's mind. How difficult pregnancy is? Even if the people in this era are strong, they basically do not take this matter seriously. But if they can, who wouldn’t want to take advantage of this time to live a good life?

But Sister Zhou didn't have the courage to spend her money. She felt pained for every penny she spent and couldn't spend so much money on food like she did without blinking.

"Apple doesn't cost much money. One coin can buy a lot back. You have worked hard for so long. It's no problem to give yourself a treat." Lin Qing He coaxed: "You can go back and explain to Third Sister-in-law about eating more apples during pregnancy."

She had said what needed to be said. As for whether she listened or not, it was up to them.

After Eldest Sister-in-law went back, Mother Zhou came over and asked her: "Did you tell the Fourth's wife?"

Elder Sister-in-law had been instructed by Mother Zhou to go over. Zhou Mu felt that if she went over, she would definitely annoy Fourth's wife. So she could only send Eldest Sister-in-law.

"Mother, don't worry. Fourth Sister-in-law knows." Eldest Sister-in-law said.

"If she had kept it in mind, would I have to worry about it? Now that old Fourth has retired, there's no income at home. If she keeps eating like this, how can it be possible?" Mother Zhou lamented.


Wednesday 24 June 2020

BTTS 41




Chapter 41. Brothers helping out

The whole family was content after the meal.

Then they brushed my teeth, wash their face, hands, and feet before getting into the land to sleep.

"You sleep by yourself. I'll sleep with the three boys." Lin Qing He said and brought her sons back into the room.

Zhou Qing Bai watched her slim back depart with a pursed lip. He hadn't care this morning, but only after a day of effort, he pondered if he agreed too early?

Lying in the warm blanket, Zhou Qing Bai was a bit unable to sleep. This day was a bit different from what he expected before he returned.

He thought she would make a lot of ruckuses, but she didn't.

Not only did she not, but she had also taken care of the food aspect well. The food was particularly good.

He never knew her culinary skills were so good. Although she would cook when he returned previously, she only gave him a bowl of noodles for the whole day. Nothing else.

Don't know if he was overthinking, but she seemed enthusiastic about him returning home.

At this time, the sound of children's playing transmitted from the next room. And also her peals of laughter. Zhou Qing Bai's expression eased. He believed that even though she was a little angry, she probably wasn't repulsed by him.

Cluelessly to the man's pondering in the next room, Lin Qing He played with her three sons for a while and then dozed off with them.

Sleeping early at night, she would wake up early in the morning without anyone waking her. It's just that, the bed was too warm, she doesn't want to get out.

But the thought of a wounded next door needed nutrition bugged her. Last night's chicken soup should have been long digested and such a big guy, his appetite was really large.

So Lin Qing He got up. Now it was only about 6:30. When she got up, she found him just returning from the outside. It seems like he had gone out for a morning jog.

"Gone for a run?" After a pause, Lin Qing He enquired.

"En." Zhou Qing Bai glanced at her: "Go to sleep some more. I will make breakfast."

"No need. If you don't want to rest, go fix up a pig shed. The earlier its built, the earlier we can pick up piglets." Lin Qinghe said.

Zhou Qing Bai nodded, then went to work in the backyard, Lin Qing He cooked millet porridge, and a plate of cold fungus as a side dish, which was soaked last night. Perfect to eat today.

It was almost time, so she roused up the three boys. She poured hot water out for them to wash their faces and applied the vanishing cream on them before coming out.

She fried five sunny sides up eggs, one per person. This one should be eaten while it is hot, otherwise, it won't be tasty.

Zhou Qing Bai said nothing about her using oil to fried eggs. After eating a simple and nutritious breakfast, Zhou Qing Bai continued to work in the backyard. Today he can complete the pig shed.

Lin Qing He said to Da Wa: "Go call your Eldest Uncle, Second Uncle and Third Uncle to come and help your father."

Zhou Qing Bai insisted there was no need. Lin Qing He brushed it off: "You still have injuries. It's no deal to call them to help. In two days, I plan to make buns. I'll give them a few then."

With this, Zhou Qing Bai had nothing to say.

The three Zhou brothers came over. There was a lot of friction between the women, but there was not so much between the brothers.
Naturally, they would come over to give a hand especially now that Zhou Qing Bai, this younger brother who needs help.

Moreover, the single room they live in now used the allowance that Zhou Qing Bai had previously sent home, otherwise everyone would have to squeeze together.

Especially since a single room needed a lot of money now. It used to be cheaper when they hadn't had enough to eat, so they have benefited a lot.

Many people in the village currently had their first branch, second branch, and third branch stuffed into one room. Normally, their days were lively and noisy, and a lot of siblings turned against each other.

Because of the contrast, even Second Sister-in-law's mind felt comforted. At least it was one family in one room for them.

The few brothers came to help, so Lin Qing He had them stay for lunch.

Lunch was boiled sweet potatoes. Although the main dish was a little simpler, the side dishes were still okay. A bowl fried egg and shredded potatoes, a plate of stewed pork belly with starch noodles, stewed ribs and mushrooms, and a pot of seaweed rib soup.

Even Second Brother and Third Brother were extremely satisfied with their food. They concluded that they haven't worked for nothing today.
Eldest Brother was kind-hearted, said repeatedly: "We're brothers. No need to treat us like this! It's only a small matter."

"It's okay. Eldest Brother, eat ba." Lin Qing He responded.

Eldest Brother was a little worried about the Fourth's family's living condition. How much money was required to eat like this?

While Zhou Qing Bai didn't say anything. The gaze toward his wife had a hint of appreciation. Lin Qing He secretly shot a glare at him- What are you looking at? Eat!

They came to work, of course, she had to make some food. Do they think she was so petty?

She ignored him and busied away feeding San Wa.

This meal was contained some careful planning. Although every dish seems to have meat, the actual amount put in wasn't much. She only put four eggs in the pot of fried egg and potatoes. It was fried with lard, making it delicious. The plate of stewed pork belly with starch noodles had at most three jin. Stewed pork ribs and mushrooms, and seaweed ribs soup was made with one portion of pork ribs.
With this, it looked like the oil content was sufficient.

At least the three Zhou brothers were very satisfied. It was adequate for Zhou Qing Bai and the children.

Because the three Zhou brothers came over to help, the pig shed was built in a day. In the evening, Lin Qing He did not keep the three for dinner. She settled it by giving three apples each to bring home.

"Sent you away with only three apples?" Once Second Brother returned, Second Sister-in-law's response was dissatisfaction.

After a day of work, there wasn't any brown sugar. Just apples? Was this how you send someone away?

"Noon meal was pretty good." Second Brother didn't say anything. After all, the meal at noon was enough compensation.

And because the three brothers went over, how much work can each one do? With Fourth's wife's temperament, to not create trouble this time and still cook these dishes, Second Brother felt it was worth it.

Eldest Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law had no comment after learning about the lunch. They were delighted about the apples as both of them were pregnant with their children.

Father Zhou and Mother Zhou were relieved. From the look of it, the youngest son's wife can be considered to be settling down and will no longer act up.

"Fortunately, we gave her two hundred yuans, otherwise she wouldn't calm down so quickly," Mother Zhou remarked.

"Don't talk about this. As long as they can live well, it's enough. Since Fourth's family will raise pigs, their future won't be bad." Father Zhou said.

Mother Zhou sighed, but said nothing.

She just hoped that Fourth's wife can be more prudent with their living style.

Not even two days, Fourth's family got Da Wa and Er Wa to deliver eight buns.

Father Zhou and Mother Zhou each got one. While the other three families had two. It was filled with pork, fungus, and mushrooms. So tasty that one can nearly swallow their tongue.

Tuesday 23 June 2020

BTTS 40




Chapter 40. Sesame Stewed Chicken


From his serious attitude, Lin Qing He saw he really had no objection.

"There's no rush in making the chicken shed. When you're ready, come over and kill the chicken. It's really delicious to stew chicken until the evening." Lin Qing He said.

Zhou Qing Bai nodded: "Leave it to me."

After finishing the work in his hand, he came to the front yard to kill the chicken. It was perfect to pass this work to him.

Lin Qing He boiled the water for him to remove the feathers. She lit the stove. A casserole pot was the best for stewing chicken. Starting now and stew until around 7pm in the evening, it'll be so soft and tender.

There weren't any special ingredients for the stewed chicken, just a handful of sesame seeds. No red dates were thrown in.

The sesame stewed chicken was very flavorful and nourishing. Perfect for Zhou Qing Bai's current state.

"Have some apple." Lin Qing He scooped hot water for him to wash his hands, and then grabbed an apple for him.

Zhou Qing Bai stared at her.

"What are you looking at?" Lin Qing He asked.

"Nothing." Zhou Qing Bai took the apple and cut out half for her to eat.

Although Lin Qing He gave him an eye-roll, she was satisfied in her heart. This man was selfless. She accepted it as she spoke, "This is for you, the patient. I will only eat this time for you."

"No need to be like," Zhou Qing Bai said.

Lin Qing He knew what he meant and was too lazy to bother with him. It was no wonder that this tough-acting man would be maltreated by the original owner into going to the woods during the cold weather and carry with firewood. He didn't know how to be lazy when he was injured.

She turned around and returned to the room, so she didn't catch Zhou Qing Bai's soften gaze falling on her.

Da Wa, Er Wa, and San Wa were all up in the room, but the brothers were lolling on the kang, unwilling to get down as it was very warm.

"Mother!" Seeing Lin Qing He walked in munching on an apple, all three's eyes lit up.

"Once you get down and wears clothes, I'll give you each an apple." Lin Qing He declared.

"This apple isn't as big as before. Nor as sweet as before." Da Wa pointed out as he dressed.

"That's right." Er Wa bobbed his head.

"So what? The previous ones were bought in the county city, and these were bought from the community's supply and demand cooperative." Lin Qinghe bit into the apple and directed San Wa to dress by himself and replied.

There were apples as big as her space's one sold in the county city, but the quantity was too small to buy. As long as there was a source and she had been to the city, she didn't have to worry.


The apples at home were not big, as they were locally produced. The taste was also not as good as the ones she took out of her space.

Da Wa and Er Wa finished dressing. Each went to get an apple to eat. San Wa imperfectly wore his clothes but still, Lin Qing He didn't fix it for him. After more practice, he'll be able to. It'll be fine as long as he was bundled up.

San Wa's apple was turned into apple puree by Lin Qing He. The little guy had a great appetite and was able to eat it all.

Probably because of eating solidly and being in good health, his fever quickly receded the other day.

Da Wa and Er Wa knew that their father was in the backyard, and they all ran over there.

They helped with fetching things. the brothers were happily busied away.

Lin Qing He also passed San Wa to them. Seeing the time, she prepared for dinner.

Because there was also chicken for tonight, Lin Qing He made it relatively simple. She made dumplings with half a jin of pork belly. Tonight, just dumplings were enough. Simple and delicious.

After simmering on the coal stove for an hour, the aromatic smell of chicken broth came out.

The three brothers smelled it and went to stand watch in front of the coal stove. Lin Qing He didn't pay any mind to them either.

Got to say, she hadn't made any chicken dishes for them to eat ever since she arrived here. Only one yuan for a chicken. Any farmer family wasn't willing to sell it, because it was necessary to keep eggs, which was one of the few protein ingredients the farmer family had.

Lin Qing He did not chance upon any when she went to the county city.

So she hadn't stewed chicken them until now. It was normal to be greedy now.

Zhou Qing Bai worked agilely. In a day, the chicken shed at home looked very proper. Their family can raise three chickens.

It was also said that if there are no more than ten people in the family, such as nine people, then five chickens can be raised. But if it was eleven people, still only five chickens can be raised. (T/N: basically: Under ten p, evenly divide = amount of chicken e.g. 2p=1c, 4p=2c. non-even divide, half and round up remainder e.g. 3p=2c 5p=3c. Over ten, the non-even divide is reversed. 11p=5c 13p=6c)

So ten was the dividing line for rounding down.

"Do you want to raise pigs at home?" Lin Qing He looked at the still empty yard and asked.

"Can we?" Zhou Qing Bai looked at her with some surprise.

He knew she loved the cleanliness and this was a virtue. He also liked that his home was clean. That's why she didn’t even raise chickens before.

This time she permitted him to build a chicken shed, had him shocked. He thought she was also willing to raise pigs.

"Yes. However, you are responsible for cleaning up." Lin Qing He said.

"Okay!" Zhou Qing Bai nodded.

Lin Qing He spoke no more.

This year the pig raised wasn't owned by them. They had to apply with the team. Although it was raised at their home, it was owned by the team. So not private property. There will be work points though, especially for well-raised pigs. The work points can be worth half an adult.

This was a good way of generating income.

In particular, their feces. It can also be exchanged into work points. Of course, their vegetable garden in the backyard also needed it.

Zhou Qing Bai also had plans of raising pigs. He knew she loved cleanliness and did not intend to raise it at home in the beginning. He was going to set up a pig shed over at the production team to keep pigs. He won't raise too much, just two.


It was going to be inconvenient to take care of it. Now that she agreed to raise it at home, he was delighted.

"Now it can't be the same as before. Can't even eat well, so why care about the smell." Lin Qing He explained like this.

If his wife had such feelings in the past, he wouldn't necessarily keep it at heart. But for some reason, now his wife said it like this, he felt bad.

He felt that he did not let her live a good life.

"How about raising it the outside?" Zhou Qing Bai said.

Lin Qing He knew what he meant when she heard these words. With a 'are you a fool?' look, she stared at him: "With such a large backyard, you raise it outside? And also, can you be at ease when raising it the outside? If someone with bad intention, spiked their food, a whole year's effort will be wasted."

Then she continued: "I'm just saying it. You don't have to take it seriously. However, I won't clean up the pig's nest for you. You have to keep this in mind."

When she was a child, she did a lot of farm work with her grandma. Although she can do it, she was sick of it. It wasn't a matter of being dramatic. Whoever done it, knows.

"Okay." Zhou Qing Bai nodded.

They had dumplings soup for dinner. The whole family was content.

After eating, Zhou Qing Bai went out. Lin Qing He knew that he going to discuss raising piglets. No need to govern him.

They had dinner early, at four o'clock. So around six thirty, Lin Qing He brought out the chicken broth for the father and sons to drink.

The chicken soup stewed with sesame seeds was very fragrant. Lin Qing He decided a bit of soup was enough for her. However, Zhou Qing Bai stuffed a chicken leg over. She changed it to two chicken wings. The chicken leg was divided between the three boys.

As for the rest, it was Zhou Qingbai's responsibility to demolish it.

Monday 22 June 2020

BTTS 39




Chapter 39. You're in charge of the household

These words made Da Wa puff out his little chest and got Er Wa to stop drooling and his eyes shone instead.

But Zhou Qing Bai persisted on dividing the ribs between the mother and sons, and he drank the soup.

Da Wa and Er Wa's expression displayed how touched they were.

Father was reluctant to eat it and gave it to them!

Lin Qing He: ... you really know how to dote them.

This soup's rib meat was simply heavenly!

Still, she accepted his goodwill. She shot him a glance. Zhou Qing Bai was also watching her.

"Quickly eat it. Once you finish, go to rest on the kang. The weather is pretty cold." Lin Qing He pretended to not mind and look away.

After the whole family ate, Zhou Qing Bai was about to clean up the tableware, but Lin Qing He passed San Wa to him. She cleaned it up herself.

It was still that phrase. There were so many days to work in the future, no need to be anxious about this moment.

However, it was obvious that Zhou Qing Bai was someone who couldn't sit still. He couldn't stand it if he were to rest all day. After taking a nap, he went to sort the backyard.

Seeing that he really didn't want to lie down, Lin Qing He decided not to stop him.

In the afternoon, Mother Zhou came again. Lin Qing He had already thrown a tantrum when required. So naturally, she couldn’t stay being in the right and not forgive. She declared, “I can stay. But if I hear you guys ever pick on me, then I will pack up and leave immediately! "

Mother Zhou was in a bad mood today. Father Zhou was also in a low mood at home. Of course, Father Zhou didn’t think Lin Qing He would leave. He was down cause of his son's retirement. But after listening to his wife saying that his son was injured, he couldn't care about that anymore. He instantly asked Mother Zhou to bring some money over.

Mother Zhou had yet to take out the money when she heard her talk. She quickly reacted: "You can rest assured. You have separated off now, meaning were two families. How you live here, old Zhou Family won't intervene. No one will say you are in the wrong! ”

"Judging by the injury on Da Wa's Father, if it's not properly maintained, it will probably leave a root of a recurring illness. I don't want to be widowed while I'm still young. And in the future, I'll need to boil medicine and serve him. Can you look around and see if anyone wants to sell chickens? If there is, help me buy two.” Lin Qing He said. And then with a resentful face: “I don’t know what sin I committed in my last life. This life, I have to follow this kind of man. First, serve his sons, now wait on him. I'm born with a hard life! "

Although she was listening to her complaints, the stone pressing in Mother Zhou's heart was put down.

Let her complain if she complains. In the end, she was still willing to catch chickens to nourish her son. Wasn't this good?

"But I don't want old Zhou's family's. Now Third Sister-in-law is about to give birth. Don't say that she can't even eat chicken during her post-natal confinement as it will be eaten by my family." Lin Qing He pointed out.

Mother Zhou initially wanted to catch two from her family. Old Zhou family had eight big egg-laying hens. At this time, the chickens were raised per headcount, and one chicken per two-person.

Old Zhou family, including grandchildren, had a total of 17 people. So they can raise eight chickens.

Eight chickens seem a lot, but in fact, they were not enough to eat. And the eggs should be kept for selling to buy salt and the like.

Therefore, eggs were precious to the old Zhou family, who lived so prudently.

Mother Zhou, who planned to harden her heart to catch two old hen at first, threw it out of her mind after hearing Lin Qing He said that.

Thankfully, Mother Zhou was very popular in the village. It was not a big deal to buy two hens. She quickly returned with two tied-up old hens.

In order to not cause her character to fall apart, Lin Qing He didn't give Mother Zhou a penny. Zhou Mu didn't even say a word.

Because she knew that these two chickens were just used to nourish her youngest son's body. And her three grandsons could eat it too. As for Lin Qing He, she was only one person. How much can she eat if she did eat?

She secretly took two hundred yuans out of her pocket again, which were all in a big bundle of ten yuans.

"What are you doing?" Lin Qing He froze before uttering.

"We saved this from the time when Fourth sent it over. After building two rooms for Eldest and Second, only this much was left. Please keep it. Later, when Da Wa and his brothers grow up, they'll need to spend money everywhere.” Although Mother Zhou was reluctant, she still took out this small fortune of two hundred yuan.

During the time, when Fourth's wife was separating off, they decided use Zhou Qing Bai's remaining money to build single rooms for the other three, so she can block their mouths.

At that time, the bricks and tiles were much cheaper than now. The starting price of one square meter was four or five yuan then. And it wasn't big. Lin Qing He’s two single rooms and a hall was only 50 square meters. No labor cost was spent then. Father Zhou had called people including the Zhou brothers to help, so it didn't cost much.

But now it was almost ten yuans per square meter, which was more than doubled. It wasn't possible to build a spacious brick house without one to two thousand.

At that time, only after using Zhou Qing Bai's money and let the other three have their own single room, did they have no objection.

This was what is left now.

The two old couples still have their own retirement fund, which they won't touch no matter what.

Other benefits have been claimed by Lin Qing He. So this two hundred yuan, Lin Qing He decided to leave it.

"If Da Wa's father knew I took both of you old people's money, he'll have a big argument with me." Lin Qing He came up with this.

"This was originally earned by old Fourth. I was keeping it for him back in those years. Now he's back, the money should naturally be returned to him. No one can say anything. These two chickens were also bought with this money." Mother Zhou pressed on.

Lin Qing He have no intention of accepting it. But Mother Zhou insisted on giving it to her, so she hesitated a little and then received it. She promised, "I won't take it back to my maternal family. I will keep it for our living expenses."

Mother Zhou was satisfied with her statement. She wanted to advise a few other things like living more prudently and don't be act so extravagantly. She estimated that she wouldn't listen, so she made no comment.

When Mother Zhou went back, she told her other daughters-in-law that Fourth's wife paid the chickens.

She couldn't hide the fact that she helped catch the chickens. It would be better to say it openly.

Eldest Sister Zhou and Third Sister-in-law said nothing. Actually, the two of them were a little relieved, especially Third Sister-in-law. She roughly calculated the baby was to be born next month. The family could only give one chicken for her to supplement her body. If it was gifted to Fourth Brother-in-law's house, she was most likely going to eat some eggs.

Eldest Sister-in-law was the same. She was due to give birth in March next year. She also wanted to keep the chickens for nourishment.

Second Sister-in-law pouted. Her mind wondered how much money the old madam shelled ut to Fourth's family!

She kept it locked in her heart, not daring to say it out loud. The old madam can really tolerate Fourth's wife. As for them, the old madam was so strict.

At Lin Qing He's side, she went to the backyard at once to confess to Zhou Qing Bai.

"I didn't want to accept old madam's money at the start but judging by her appearance if I didn't take it, who knows what she would think in her mind. I was thinking about how the future would be long, so I collected the money." Lin Qing He admitted.

Zhou Qing Bai was setting up a chicken shed. Responding to her, he looked at her and said, "You're in charge of the household."

Sunday 21 June 2020

BTTS 38




Chapter 38. Freaking out

Zhou Qing Bai, who returned at an unknown time, had clearly heard an earful from the door: "..."

He didn't even know that his wife had this ability to say one thing and mean another.

It was obvious that she was afraid he would get cold and be hungry. Forget last night, as she didn’t know what happened and looked after him. But this morning, he showed his card and she still gave him a bowl after he got back from old Zhou ’s house. His three sons also received a share.

But toward his mother, it was this ruthless appearance.

She got two faces? (T/N:🤣)

He really didn't understand his wife.

Inside, Mother Zhou choked. Her mind said, 'this is your man, how is it not your business?'. But she knew she was angry now and no words can reach her. What's more, she can only accede instead of going against her. Otherwise, once old Fourth return, life would be up-ended.

"Father, hold me!" At this time, San Wa's voice sounded outside the door.

The little guy wandered out to see his father, and directly headed over to hug his leg as he asked.

Zhou Qing Bai picked up San Wa. At this time, Mother Zhou came out of the room.

"Mother, go back. There's no problem here." Holding San Wa, Zhou Qing Bai conveyed.

Mother Zhou was filled with worry. Looking at her youngest son, whose wife was about to run, she urged, "Old Fourth, come home with mum for a bit."

Zhou Qing Bai followed her the door, carrying San Wa. Mother Zhou whispered: "Old Fourth, you heard it just outside the door, right? You need to have a good talk your wife, understood? If you can't convince her to stay, then you really need to take care of Da Wa and his brothers by yourself."

Even if her son divorced like this, it would never be a problem to find another. But the main point was that it wasn't possible now. With three sons, how can he get married again? Marry one back to abuse her three grandsons?

Although Fourth's wife was like that, it was better than a stepmother, no matter how unreasonable the biological mother was.

Without waiting for her son to speak, Mother Zhou continued: "Go back and talk with your wife. Just promise her that she didn't have to work in the field. How she lived before is how it'll be in the future. It's enough that she can take care of your family. Next year, Da Wa will be able to gather pigweed to earn work points. The household putting in the effort can get headcount share, so even without her going to the field, you can still live well! "

Zhou Qing Bai nodded seriously: "I'll listen to Mother. I will explain it clearly to her."

He seemed to understand why his wife talked to his mother like that.

Of course, he wouldn't be so stupid to say it. He knew everything about earning work points. He won't make the living conditions at home become bad.

Only when she saw him agreed, did Mother Zhou go back. It just she was still worried.

At home, Lin Qing He acted like nothing happened. Seeing that it wasn't ten o'clock yet, she directed at Zhou Qing Bai: "I heard Mother said you have injuries. Come in and let me see."

As she said this, she took San Wa into her embrace.

Zhou Qing Bai glanced at her and said, "It's no big deal."
Lin Qing He just stared at him. Last night she was too shy. Now she can almost calmly face him. Her adaptability was very strong, especially when her commotion with Mother Zhou was witnessed by him. She felt that she could take the plunge

Human ah, as long as they were willing to take the plunge, anything was possible.

Zhou Qing Bai saw that she won't accept any objection, he had no choice but to enter and take off his clothes to show her. Lin Qing He was a little embarrassed, but when she saw the scar on his wound, she couldn't help but feel heartache.

"Quickly put on your clothes, lie down on the Kang at once." Lin Qing He ordered.

Zhou Qing Bai obediently put on his clothes. The weather was still quite cold. He uttered: "Are there house chores left to do?"

"Yes." Lin Qing He nodded.

Zhou Qing Bai watched at her, obviously waiting for her instructions.

"Obediently, lie on the Kang for me, and completely nurse your wounds. We'll talk after that " Said Lin Qing He.

Zhou Qing Bai looked at her and persisted, "The injuries on my body are fine."

"It's just fine. It doesn't mean it's completely healed. If you want to work, there's enough for you next year. And it'll be all done by you. Now quickly lie down. My temper isn't good, so don't add fire to it." Lin Qing He frowned.

What fine? She can feel the ache just by looking at it!
Zhou Qing Bai saw that she was really angry, he felt quite helpless. That easy to get angry. Resigned, he turned around to return to the kids' kang.

Lin Qing He placed San Wa with him and let him watch over him. Then she went to heat up the Kang.

At this moment, Da Wa and Er Wa returned from the outside. These two brothers had gone out and flaunted the fact that their father came back. It made them more euphoric than getting new clothes to wear.

"Your father risked coming back through the snowstorm last night. He's not feeling too well, you guys go to the Kang and talk with him." Lin Qing He suggested.

Da Wa and Er Wa held high expectation and awe toward their father, Zhou Qing Bai. So hearing their mother say so, they all went.

Zhou Qing Bai saw his two elder sons coming in, he gestured for them to come over with his eyes.

Da Wa and Er Wa scrambled over and watched at him.

Da Wa revealed: "Mother said Father is sick. Then, Father, you need to rest more."

"En. Last time San Wa was sick, Mother had to take care of him for the whole night without sleeping," Er Wa nodded.

San Wa had a cold just a few days ago. Lin Qing He had taken a lot of caution since she came, but he still caught a cold. That night she really didn’t sleep for the whole night and took care of him. Da Wa and Er Wa only knew about it the next day.

Zhou Qing Bai knew that it was not easy for his wife to take care of their three sons, but he thought when the kids get sick, she'll keep watch for one night.
"Father not leaving?" Da Wa's eyes shone.

Er Wa couldn't help looking expectantly at him.

Just not their little friends mentioned it. They heard the adults say their father won't leave anymore and will stay in the village.

"Not leaving." Zhou Qing Bai affirmed.

"That's great!" Da Wa and Er Wa were excited.

Naturally, children won't think too much. Their minds were very simple. They want their father to stay at home. But they don't know that if their father stays at home, there will be no source of income for the family.

Outside, Lin Qing He was thinking of making soup to nourish Zhou Qing Bai when she heard laughter from the room.

Although the relationship between father and son will worsen in the future, the three little men in the family have natural worship for their father so far.

After all, he was so tall and so big. He looked very strong and better than the fathers of other children in the village. So they were happy to recognize him.

Lin Qing He cooked stewed seaweed ribs soup in the casserole pot. After all, she ‘knew’ he still had injuries on his body. She must express that.

Then, she made stewed pork belly with potatoes and shrimp skin soup. The pork rib soup was specially made for villains' father. She and the children can have shrimp skin soup.
At 11 o'clock around noon, her family can eat.

The patient's soup was for Zhou Qing Bai to drink alone. Neither Da Wa nor Er Wa had the intention of wanting it. They expressed that they were fine with drinking shrimp soup.

Zhou Qing Bai darted a glance at Lin Qing He.

Lin Qing He explained: "Their father is unwell, so needs nourishment. Both of our boys are filial and will not fight with their father."