Friday, 30 April 2021

BTTS 368




 Chapter 368. Fourth shop


Eldest Sister-in-law knew exactly what kind of temper Lin Qing He had.

It wasn't an exaggeration to say that she won't permit a grain of sand in her eye.

Zhou Liu Ni ran over by herself, despite her objections. Was she able to stay? No. The day she reached the capital, she was sent back directly without staying for a night.

Therefore, when First Sister mentioned that she wanted Xu Sheng Qiang to go over with his sister after the New Year, Eldest Sister-in-law didn't approve.

One more person meant one more person to feed. Not only did they have to raise a half-grown child for nothing, but also have to give an extra salary. That side hadn't request for someone to go over. Who would dare to nod and decide on this side?

Eldest Sister-in-law didn't intend to get involved. If Sheng Mei brings Sheng Qiang over, he will definitely be brought back if there was no shortage of people.

But in the end, First Sister had a good relationship with her, so she mentioned it when her daughter called.

Now Lin Qing He called back. It was obvious that Xu Sheng Mei mightn't be allowed to go next year. After Eldest Sister-in-law hung up the phone, she hurried back to get Eldest Brother to make a trip.

"Let First Sister cool her thoughts. It's not like she doesn't know Qing He's temperament. And she dares to send him over there before saying. Do she think Qing He has a good relationship with her?" Eldest Sister-in-law muttered angrily.

In fact, this matter was a little unpleasant to handle. From the beginning, it was First Sister overreaching.

To say that First Sister had a good relationship with Lin Qing He wasn't necessarily true. Whether it was First Sister or Second Sister, the relationship with Lin Qing He was generally so-so.

Only Zhou Xiao Mei and Lin Qing He was tight-knit.

Eldest Brother went over to talk to his eldest sister.

First Sister agreed and said, "Okay, since not allowed to go, then Sheng Qiang will not go. Sheng Mei will go her back after the new year celebration."

Eldest Brother was still very kind-hearted. He hadn't brought up Lin Qing He's sentence of  'if Xu Sheng Mei being busy, then she didn't need to come over.'

After he returned, the atmosphere in the old Xu's house wasn't so good.

Xu Sheng Mei said, "Mother, look. I told you not to go to uncle's house and say it."

"If I don't mention, how can you take your brother over?" First Sister looked at her and asked.

"I already said can't bring him. The day Zhou Liu arrived was the day she was driven back." Xu Sheng Mei replied.

It wasn't Xu Sheng Mei who act first and report later. She couldn't be any more clear about her aunt's temper.

She wasn't one to give way to another. One hundred percent her call shots. A dictator. Do whatever she wanted. She held the power in the house.

"Mother, if you really want my brother to go there, you should call and ask by yourself?" Xu Sheng Mei looked at her mother.

First Sister did not speak. She was also a little embarrassed before this younger sister-in-law. Put it frankly, even though she was the eldest sister in the family, Lin Qing He wouldn't place any importance on her.

Later, it was a little better. She was more politer. In the past, she didn't even give her a glance when she saw her. Simply like they didn't know each other.

First Sister was thinking that once her son was there, maybe he will stay?

After all, he was their nephew and a capable young man. Not a lazy girl like Liu Ni.

However, she didn't expect rejection right away.

Speaking of which, First Sister felt depressed.

But what else can she say? This sister-in-law, Lin Qing He didn't put her in her eyes before. Now that she had a promising future, would she attach any importance to her, the eldest sister.

"Mother, I want to go to the capital!" Xu Sheng Qiang said unwillingly. He wanted to go to the capital/ especially since his sister gone over. She said how wonderful the capital was. He was staying at home and doing farm work. He didn't want to do farm work at all. Not only was it tiring, but also, he might marry a girl from the capital if he went over!

Then he can move his household registration to the capital in the future and will be a citizen of the capital. He will no longer have to do farm work.

"What are you going for? Your aunt won't let you go. Stay at home!" First Sister staed.

Xu Sheng Qiang said, "Isn't my sister already 18 this year? Let my sister stay at home and marry someone. I will go to the capital to fill my sister's spot!"

This was a good idea. First Sister looked at her third daughter at once.

Xu Sheng Mei's face turned pale. Now she had seen the scenery over at the capital, she wasn't willing to marry someone from the countryside. She wanted to find someone from the capital!

"Mother, if impossible, I am willing to give my spot to brother, but our clothing store sells women's clothing. Those who buy and try on clothes are all women. My brother wouldn't do right? At Hu Zi's side, they sell men's clothing. If you are willing, go and talk to with Second Aunt (2nd Sis). Make Hu Zi come back to marry and give the position to my brother." Xu Sheng Mei suggested.

First Sister curled her lips and said, "How could your second aunt be willing?"

Xu Sheng Qiang spoke: "Since Hu Zi can do it, I can also do it. I can also go to the men's clothing store."

"Then talk with Aunt (Qing He). That side certainly has an outsider. If she is willing to change to you, then it'll be perfect." Xu Sheng Mei said.

"Aunt, Aunt. Why didn't you say about Uncle?" Xu Sheng Qiang responded, "I have no blood relationship with her at all. Uncle is my relative!"

"Uncle's words at home have no power. It's Aunt who has the final say." Xu Sheng Mei replied.

This matter was left unresolved.

Although the holiday end on the 15th of January, Lantern Festival day, Hu Zi came over on the 10th to notify Xu Sheng Mei.

"There are still a few days left." Xu Sheng Mei said.

"What's the matter? It's no problem to go there earlier. Maybe Aunt opened the business ahead of schedule." Hu Zi replied.

Xu Sheng Mei didn't really want to go so soon. But when she thought about the TV over there and how her mother wanted to pass her job to her brother.

So after a little hesitation, Xu Sheng Mei stated, "Then come and find me tomorrow."

"Okay." Hu Zi nodded in response.

He didn't think too much. He didn't have much to do at home. If it weren't having Xu Sheng Mei, who was a month older than him, in mind, he would have caught a ride back to the capital on the 7th.

His uncle’s dumpling shop had opened. He can go to his uncle’s dumpling shop to help out.

Just need to include the meal. The rest didn’t matter.

Speaking of which, the food at home was really incomparable to his uncle and aunt's side.

So early the next morning, Hu Zi carried his baggage to find Xu Sheng Mei. Xu Sheng Mei also had a small bundle. Truthfully, there was nothing to bring.

The two of them came to the county city together, took a ride to the municipal city, and transferred to trains from the municipal city to the capital.

Over at the capital, Lin Qing He had also started preparing for the beverage shop these days.

On the ninth, she went to the Housing Management Bureau and asked about it. There was a shop at that side. The asking price was three thousand yuan.

Lin Qing He took a look at the small shop. She wasn't completely satisfied, because it was pretty small. Only tens or so square meters. It was especially dilapidated. Renovation and redecoration were a must.

But because there was a movie theater next to it, Lin Qing He hesitated. She ended up buying their fourth shop.

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  • Thursday, 29 April 2021

    BTTS 367




     Chapter 367. Dare to act first, report later?


    It was pretty late now, so the couple made their way back.

    The more Lin Qing He considered it, the more she felt it was good. Zhou Qing Bai didn't have any objection to her opening a shop. He just asked: "Who would take care of it?"

    "Isn't that simple?" Lin Qing He replied.

    She told him her plans.

    Just hire two smart young girls to watch it. It still needs a manager at the store as tracking the sale and purchase, filling the ledger, and settling accounts require manpower.

    She planned to arrange for Ma Cheng Min to be in charge of there.

    Lin Qing He intended to promote him to be her chief manager. In fact, her top preference was Er Ni, but it can't be helped. Er Ni was still a bit too inexperienced now. She lacked qualifications and can't hold the position.

    It would be better to let a native local, Ma Cheng Min, give her a hand.

    As for the salary, she will mention it to him in private as appropriate. After all, he was management. There may be other shops to manage in the future.

    Lin Qing He was still a little bit spirited all the way back home.

    She didn't even want to open a shop, she just wanted to buy a shop to rent. But she couldn't help it. At this time, there were opportunities everywhere. At a glance, a business opportunity appeared.

    Money was especially easy to earn.

    For example, her two clothing stores at this stage were equivalent to golden hens that lay golden eggs. In the future generation, if such a large clothing store had a terrible location and wasn't managed properly, it will not be able to earn her current amount.

    The styles of the clothes she produced were indeed attractive, but they were all bulk made. There was no mockery of copying. The requirements were a bit lower.

    So, she added another menswear shop.

    Taking advantage of everyone's low requirements and the lack of goods resources, she'll earn as much as possible. Once she makes the profit, invest more quickly. Then they will not be idly chipping away the mountain in the future.

    This was the only way for her to be a lazy person getting rich.

    But who would have thought, now it was time to plan for her fourth shop.

    Zhou Kai started his journey back to the academy on the fourth day of the New Year. His family went to see him off. This time, he might not have time to come back during the summer vacation. Maybe it will be the end of the year.

    Lin Qing He was in a low spirit for two days after sending her eldest son away.

    Eldest son was already 18 years old this year. It was time to fly. But as an old mother, Lin Qing He is still a little dejected about separation.

    "Mom, don't worry. I won't leave you. I'll work with you in the future," Zhou Xuan comforted.

    He was sixteen years old this year. Over 1.8 meters tall him was quite tall and handsome.

    Of the three sons, Second looked the most like her. He used to be the most fox-like clever, but now he was leaning toward the gentle and elegant type.

    Seeing such second son like this, Lin Qing He was comforted. She turned to Third and said, "Third, how about you?"

    Zhou Gui paused. Then loudly declared: "Mom, don't worry. Too early for me. But when I grow up, I will take you and my dad to travel around."

    "Do we need you if we want to travel?" Lin Qing He scorned.

    Zhou Gui Lai grinned and said, "Then you take me, alright?"

    "Not bringing. Your dad and I will travel by ourselves in the future. After raising you so big, don't want to govern you anymore. You have to let the two of us have some time for ourselves." Lin Qing He said.

    Then she glanced at her Qing Bai.

    Zhou Qing Bai's eyebrows soften.

    Zhou Gui Lai grumbled and said: "Dad, Mom, can you two control it a little bit? I'm going to get tired of it."

    He had never seen a couple like his parents. They were really too affectionate. He had witnessed both of them hiding in the room and kissing each other when he was younger.

    At that time, they were still little. The couple was still young, so it was normal.

    How many years had passed since then? They grew up. Still, he encountered them were locking lips again one night.

    His mom was on his dad's lap as his dad held his mother's waist like that.

    At that time, the door wasn't closed properly. After taking a look, he hurried back to his room.

    Simply not suitable for children's view.

    On normal days, when the two were lying on the sofa, they would watch TV hand in hand. His dad would even trim his mom's nails!

    Zhou Gui Lai had witnessed it since he was young. He didn't know what to say.

    Lin Qing He snorted with contempt: "You yellow-haired kid, what do you know? Stay to the side."

    Then she looked at her Qing Bai and said, "It's time to go to bed. It's getting late."

    "En." Zhou Qing Bai got up. Sleeping and the likes were his most favourite.

    The couple went back to their room. Zhou Gui Lai continued to watch TV with Zhou Xuan. Zhou Gui Lai uttered: "Eldest Brother isn't at home. It feels like something is missing."

    Zhou Xuan nodded. The brothers watched the TV for a while. When they checked the time, it was ten o'clock. Then they turned off the TV and went to bed.

    In a blink of an eye, the seventh of January was over.

    As soon as the seventh of January passed, Zhou Qing Bai's dumpling shop opened.

    Although the business was relatively bleak, there was always a profit of two or three yuan a day. Su Da Lin can't stay idle. The bun shop also quickly opened.

    "Second Brother, let's go over to youngest uncle's bun shop to eat." Zhou Gui Lai invited his second brother that day.

    Zhou Xuan also wanted to eat buns.

    Lin Qing He said: "Bring some dumplings to your grandparents. Tell your aunt to not cook in the afternoon. Have dumplings instead."

    "Okay." the two brothers brought a few jins of dumplings.

    With that many people over there, a few jin of dumplings was needed for one meal.

    Once they have gone over, Zhou Er Ni came over and brought a message.

    She went to call home again yesterday.

    On the phone, her mother said brought up a matter.

    "It seems like Xu Sheng Qiang from Eldest Aunt(1st Sis)'s family want to come over," Zhou Er Ni told

    Xu Sheng Qiang was Xu Sheng Mei's younger brother. Younger than Xu Sheng Mei by two years old.

    Xu Sheng Mei was eighteen this year. Xu Sheng Qiang was sixteen. The two above Xu Sheng Mei were sisters. Both were already married off.

    In First Sister's family, Xu Sheng Qiang wasn't the only son. He wasn't the youngest. Below him was the youngest brother.

    In other words, First Sister had three daughters and two sons.

    And because the first three in a row were all daughters, First Sister couldn't lift her head for a while. She straightened her back after giving birth to her eldest son.

    Later another young son was born. But Xu Sheng Qiang in the front had already been slightly spoiled.

    Zhou Kai had sent roast duck over before. When Zhou Kai came back, he said that his cousin was unbelievable. He had gone through such length to send a roast duck over and he complained it was too small. Said, there was not enough to eat.

    Lin Qing He heard it one. Although she continued to send one over, she knew it in mind.

    She didn't have the patience and intention to educate another's son. On her side, she just needed to complete her courtesy. She didn't expect anything else.

    So after hearing from Zhou Er Ni, she called the old house.

    First, she greeted Eldest Sister-in-law before entering the subject. She asked Eldest Brother to pass on that there wasn't a shortage of staff here. If anyone dares to act first and report later, she'll make them lose face.

    "Also, Eldest Sister-in-law, tell Eldest Brother to let know Sheng Mei that if she doesn't come to the capital next year, then don't come." In the end, Lin Qing He added this sentence.


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  • Wednesday, 28 April 2021

    BTTS 366




     Chapter 366. Beverage stop


    "I made an arrangement with the photo studio tomorrow morning. At nine o'clock, we will all go over to take pictures." Zhou Gui Lai said at this time.

    "Third paying?" Zhou Xuan raised his eyebrows.

    "I'll pay then. I will be extravagant as well." Zhou Gui Lai replied indifferently.

    He'll use his grandparent's new year's red envelopes, as well as his youngest aunt and his youngest uncle's ones. Granny Ma and Ma Cheng Min from next door also gave one.

    There wasn't a big red envelope, just small ones.

    Lin Qing He naturally gave Ma Xiao Dan a big one in return.

    This was how the New Year red envelopes were. Almost an exchange. There were more or less some discrepancies, but it wasn't minded.

    Unless it was a large gap. Then it'll leave some unease.

    So this time, Zhou Gui made a lot of money despite receiving small red envelopes.

    So this dolt took out a lot of money and invited everyone to take pictures tomorrow morning.

    Naturally, Lin Qing He didn't have any objections. The red envelope was given to him and he can manage it by himself.

    Everyone arranged for the meet-up. Wait at the photo studio at nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

    At this time, there were very limited photo studios. Just mention an address and it was easy to find.

    They stayed there until after nine o'clock before Lin Qing He got Zhou Kai to send his god-grandfather bac. Then she brought Zhou Qing Bai and her two sons home.

    "Would you like a bowl of glutinous rice balls?" Lin Qing He asked.

    "Not eating. I'm so full tonight." Zhou Gui Lai answered.

    Zhou Xuan also declined. Lin Qing He made herself and Zhou Qing Bai a bowl. These were glutinous rice and fragrant taro balls, which she made and kept for supper.

    Slightly sweet, which was pretty delicious.

    After eating, the couple went to wash up and then went back to rest. The brothers waited for their eldest brother to come back. Once he was back, they can continue to listen to his stories about the military academy until eleven o’clock before going to sleep.

    'Eldest Brother is going to be a soldier. Second Brother is going to be a professor. I will do business.' Zhou Gui Lai thought happily during bedtime.

    Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai were in the room. Only now, they fell asleep.

    They had been in the room for more than an hour and haven't slept yet. No need to ask what they were doing. In short, Zhou Qing Bai was very hardworking now.

    No matter how sour and astringent the fruit was, Lin Qing He must eat it as she had planted the seed herself.

    What can she do? Complyingly accompanied the hero and expressed her willingness to birth a daughter. As long as he fights out, she will give birth!

    Zhou Qing Bai was very satisfied with her attitude. After finishing his work, he hugged his wife to sleep.

    "Qing Bai, have you heard of this phrase?" Lin Qing He feebly uttered.

    "Huh?" Zhou Qing Bai replied.

    "There is only exhausted ox, and no badly plowed land." Lin Qing He said.

    "In an acre, there's only so much land. I can handle it." Zhou Qing Bai said.

    Listen to this. What bawdy words these are? Sure enough, her family Qing Bai learned to be bad now. Lin Qing He gave him a light hammer. Zhou Qing Bai laughed.

    Lin Qing He slept in his warm and muscular embrace.

    In the winter, she loved to sleep in his arms. His whole person was like a big stove, especially comfortable.

    Zhou Qing Bai also enjoyed it. He could sleep very soundly while holding his wife.

    At nine o'clock the next day, they headed over for photo taking. Because an appointment was made, they got right to business.

    The photographer said it was also the morning. If they came over in the afternoon, who knows how long they'll have to wait.

    They weren't the only family who took photos during the New Year. There were others.

    For this photoshoot, Father Zhou, Mother Zhou, and old Wang put on all new clothes.

    Mother Zhou smiled and said, "This is really exciting."

    She hadn't taken a photo in her entire life. Only heard of it. How can she not be excited?

    Before, Lin Qing He wanted Zhou Qing Bai bring his parents with them to shoot, but both of them refused. They really wanted to take pictures, but at that time the conditions weren't better than the present. So they didn’t want to waste money.

    While now, it was no problem. They can take a picture together, even if it cost a lot of money. It was only once a year.

    Just spend it.

    First, the big family took a group photo, and then it was separated. There was Lin Qing He's family. The Zhou Kai brothers and their god-grandfather. Then with their grandparents. Altogether, it reached more than 20 photos.

    They had a good splurge.

    Su Da Lin and old Wang wanted to settle the bill. Zhou Gui Lai immediately declared, "Nobody snatch. I will pay this money this year!"

    Then he went to checkout. He cleared out his last year's savings cleanly. Both pockets were empty. Afterward, when they got home, he brazenly asking for money to buy firecrackers.

    Lin Qing He stingily gave him two dimes.

    Of course, she didn't blame him for paying the bill. It was okay to splurge. As for more, don't about getting it.

    At most, two dimes.

    Zhou Gui Lai still wanted to pester for more. Lin Qing He paid him no heed. After lunch, she stated, "You can go enjoy the New Year by yourself. Just remember to come back for dinner at four."

    On the first day of New Year, dinner was always very early. If one was hungry at night, eat some light supper.

    All three boys went out. Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai stayed at home waiting for relatives' and friends' visits.

    When they heard that they came in the morning and they weren't home.

    "The whole family including my parents-in-law and sister-in-law's family went to the photo studio to take pictures." Lin Qing He smilingly explained with a smile to Aunt Ma's words.

    Those who came to visit were all from the small workshop. Ma Cheng Min and Aunt Ma also brought Ma Xiao Dan over.

    It was very lively.

    Lin Qing He had prepared all tea and snacks. It went without saying, one shouldn't lose courtesy when celebrating the New Year.

    From one o'clock until almost four o'clock, they hosted their guests. Zhou Kai and his brothers came back to prepare for dinner. The others were similar position, so they all returned.

    The family of five didn't go over to Su Da Lin to eat. They had their own meal. After eating, Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai went out.

    The couple went to the movie.

    In this era, watching movies was almost the only pastime. One can’t play other games.

    Since the New Year holiday began, the cinema was basically full.

    It was the same today. One had to come early, or else there will be no tickets.

    The two watched the movie. When they came out of the cinema. there was nowhere to find a drink.

    "Qing Bai, how about we buy a shop at this side and open a shop?" Lin Qing He also said.

    Zhou Qing Bai looked at her: "What are you going to sell?"

    "Let's buy some drinks and sell them. Also things like popsicles which can be sold when the time comes." Lin Qing He said.

    There was nothing to buy here. She felt if they open one, there will definitely be some business. After all, to be able to come to watch movies at this time, they must be better off.

    A movie cost two or three dimes. Most people were reluctant to come. She thinks it would be a good idea to open a beverage shop.

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  • Tuesday, 27 April 2021

    BTTS 365




    Chapter 365. Relatives


    This was their first New Year's Eve dinner in the capital.

    TV dramas were being played on TV. At this time, there was no Spring Festival Gala. It seems that the Spring Festival Gala will not happen until 1983.

    It was only 1981.

    Although there was no Spring Festival Gala, the dinner table was still exceptionally bountiful. The whole table was filled with dishes.

    In addition to meat and vegetable dishes, there were also soft drinks, Da Bai's pear soda and Asian sodas. These were particularly popular drinks nowadays. It was also pricey.

    When Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai brought the children over, they bought it on the way.

    Zhou Xiao Mei's family, Lin Qing He's family, granddaughter Zhou Er Ni, as well as old Wang, who was brought over by Father Zhou from Bei University.

    How can they possibly leave old Wang out on a celebration like New Year’s Eve dinner?

    Therefore, the whole family gathered to eat this piping hot New Year's Eve dinner.

    The whole country was unified, regardless of whether they were in harmony or not. Everyone will sit down and eat New Year's Eve dinner together.

    Let alone Lin Qing He and Zhou Xiao Mei who had a good relationship.

    "Er Ni, you made a call today. Did your mother say anything?" Zhou Xiao Mei asked at the dinner table.

    Zhou Er Ni called home today. She called the village branch secretary's house and they got her mother to answer.

    "Everything is okay. They said hi to Grandfather." Zhou Er Ni smilingly assured.

    Lin Qing He smiled, "How's the harvest at home this year?"

    "I heard my mother mentioned a bit. She said this year's harvest is excellent and the village has a good harvest." Zhou Er Ni nodded.

    "Now that it's their own, everyone got to work hard. Want to mess around like before, don't think about it." Mother Zhou said.

    Mother Zhou had some minor bad habits, but when she was still working in the production, she was definitely diligent. She disliked seeing some people being lazy.

    They rushed forward when there was something to eat, but dragged their feet when it came to working. Now it was like this. With the household contract system, everyone was responsible for their own land. No longer group work. If they don't do it, what will they eat? But there was no such thing as a pie falling from the sky.

    After paying the sufficient amount to the country, the rest was their own. Everyone will definitely do it with gusto.

    Mother Zhou felt that this new policy was good. Like extremely great.

    Father Zhou, old Wang, Su Da Lin, and Zhou Qing Bai were eating and drinking. Mother Zhou continued to say, "I wonder how old Third's family is doing."

    "Third Brother's business is in the county town. They certainly won't do too bad." Zhou Xiaomei said.

    She felt that with her third brother and third sister-in-law's hardworking temperament, it certainly won't be bad. After all, if they managed it well, this business would be very profitable.

    "For now your third brother and third sister-in-law are living at your place, but they have to go out and find a place for themselves later." Mother Zhou stated.

    After all, it belonged to Son-in-law's family. Since they hadn't returned yet, it was still okay for them to stay temporarily. If they stay for a long time, it won't do.

    "What's the hurry? Let Third Brother live there. We probably don't have time to go back in this short period of time." Zhou Xiao Mei didn't mind.

    Their keys were left to Da Lin's uncle. Third Brother went over there to take it.

    Lin Qing He didn't say anything about this topic. She listened to Zhou Xiao Mei saying: "Mother, you ask about Eldest Brother and Third Brother, but you haven't asked the second brother yet."

    Mother Zhou didn't get angry. She responded: "Why would I ask about your second brother? Your second sister-in-law got her own big idea. I can't be bothered to care."

    In fact, she had no problem with her daughters-in-law having their own idea. Fourth's wife always had her own ideas. But to have big ideas, one got to have that ability.

    If one didn't have the ability and got big ideas, then wasn't it messing around?

    Of course, it was said like this. Second's wife hadn't mess around.

    But since they were older and didn't want her to say anything, then she won't.

    Especially after Liu Ni was sent back last time. Beside greeting her, Second Sister-in-law had been cold to her since then.

    Thinking that she(Mother Z) won't know, she(2Sis-in-law) often told people that she(Mother Z) was biased. 

    "My mother said during the off-peak time next year, our family might build a brick house." Zhou Er Ni smilingly mentioned.

    "That's great." Lin Qing He nodded after hearing this.

    At the old Zhou’s side, having Second Sister-in-law present was very annoying. According to the words of Third Sister-in-law, if one got something good to eat, they have to hide and eat it. If not, one will hear displeasing words when they didn't share.

    For example, 'Our family is poor. We can't compare to others. Can't afford to eat pure white mantou and dumplings.

    Third Sister-in-law was sick of it. Lin Qing He estimated that this reason partly contributed to Third Brother's courage to start a business in the city.

    They really didn't want to live under one roof anymore.

    "With your monthly salary sent back and they themselves got their own income, Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law can afford to build a new house since all of you are hardworking." Zhou Xiao Mei also nodded.

    "It would cost a lot of money to build a new house," Mother Zhou commented.

    "I will raise the salary next year. I will give 40 yuan a month. Er Ni is frugal. Except for some school supplies, the rest of the money will be sent home. There is also Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law. Don't worry too much." Lin Qing He spoke.

    How could Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law not save some money? There was also Zhou Er Ni’s salary. Even when they have to raise their eldest son, Zhou Yang and fund his study, the pressure wasn't too heavy. His college entrance examination will be next year. Once he attends university, he'll receive an allowance.

    "How much does it cost to build a house?" Zhou Xiao Mei asked.

    "For a brick house, it would cost seven or eight hundred yuan." Mother Zhou replied.

    Of course, on the premise that it wasn't extremely big. If it was a little bigger, the minimum was one thousand.

    "If Eldest Brother and Eldest Sister-in-law are short at the time, they will say it. If it is possible, I will lend some to them to ease the emergency." Lin Qing He said.

    Mother Zhou hurriedly said: "Forget it. The family has been split up. Each goes on their own ways. How much money one has, is how many things they can do. If one borrows, the others will follow."

    "Third Sister-in-law and Third Brother went to the city. They won't borrow money from me in the future." Lin Qing He said with a smile.

    "It was still borrowed. Without the money you left at Eldest's, where did he get the money to buy a shop in the city to do business." Mother Zhou pointed out.

    She was extremely satisfied with Fourth's wife. Extraordinarily open-minded.

    Lin Qing He smiled.

    Then the topic changed, turning toward Third Brother Lin's direction.

    Mother Zhou had a particularly good impression of Third Brother Lin: "Da Wa's uncle will definitely do well in the future. He is kind. Everyone in and outside the village likes to deal with him."

    Lin Qing He grinned when Third Brother Lin was mentioned. Her brother was indeed not the type who would argue with others. Always jollily toward everyone.

    Moreover, he got a kind personality. She did favor this younger brother.

    Naturally, she couldn't bear to watch him use his two legs to ride a bicycle for a lifetime.

    Buying a motorcycle was the best solution.

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  • Monday, 26 April 2021

    BTTS 364




     Chapter 364. '81's New Year Eve's dinner


    Zhou Qing Bai's dumpling shop opened until 8pm on the twenty-eighth day of December. Then it was officially closed for the New Year.

    In the evening, the couple stayed in the room to calculate this year's ledger.

    Lin Qing He's clothing store's performance was naturally excellent.

    On average this year’s income was two thousand yuan per month after deducting various costs.

    The men's clothing store which was opened later hadn't performed as well as the women's clothing store. Still, the business was exceptionally good. It opened for a short time, but it still was an income. It was almost equal to the annual income of Qing Bai's dumpling store.

    Actually, Zhou Qing Bai's dumpling shop was doing great this year. 300 or so and almost 400 yuan each month.

    After all, it was busy at the end of the year. With the addition of mutton dumplings, which everyone liked very much, the business during the last month was the best.

    The profit exceeded four hundred.

    There was a limit to this year's expenditure. It was mainly buying a menswear shop. As for the rest, there was basically no dent.

    They did earn a lot of money.

    After calculating, the family's saving was quite substantial.

    "Why is there no news about the courtyard dwelling?" Lin Qing He uttered.

    For the courtyard dwelling she longed for, she didn't buy any other properties or shops.

    Of course, it was also because the location wasn't to her taste. Otherwise, she wouldn't mind buying it if it was.

    "Don't worry. Take our time." Zhou Qing Bai knew that his wife was obsessed with the courtyard dwelling.

    But truthfully, he liked it too.

    He had gone to help old Wang collect the rent from his courtyard dwelling. Old Wang's courtyard dwelling was a double-entry, which was very grand.

    But that was old Wang's. Although Zhou Qing Bai recognized him as his godfather, he never wanted to take advantage of him. He wanted to buy one with his wife by themselves.

    Lin Qing He nodded and said, "If there are none next year, I will buy more shops and properties."

    Now the economy was getting better and better. And the situation was getting more and more bright. However, the advancement wasn't much. There were more and more self-employed. So shops with better locations weren't so easy to buy.

    So if one wanted to buy, they must strike first.

    Zhou Qing Bai didn't have any objections. It was all up to his wife.

    "We will go to other places to buy in the future." Lin Qing He spoke again after lying on the bed.

    "Where?" Zhou Qing Bai said in puzzlement.

    "Over at south sea side." Lin Qing He answered.

    In the future, if they mind the cold here, they can spend winterover at the south sea side. It'll be warmer, like spring all year round.

    Zhou Qing Bai nodded: "Then we better work hard."

    Lin Qing He smiled. Then she said with suggestive gaze, "Qing Bai, let's work hard to see if God will grant us a daughter?"

    How can Zhou Qing Bai not cooperate? Not only did he cooperate, but also put his whole effort in.

    After all, there was no need to open the shop tomorrow, so that night, the couple slept late.

    The next day, they slept until ten o'clock. Only then, these two got up slowly.

    Zhou Kai had headed out. Zhou Gui Lai was also not at home. Only Zhou Xuan was present.

    "Dad, Mom, what do you want to eat?" Zhou Xuan asked.

    "No need for me, Just steam a few steamed buns and reheat a bowl of mutton soup for your dad." Lin Qing He said.

    Wasn’t it the last day yesterday? Lin Qing He got Second to deliver a good few jins of dumplings. They were all cooked and cooled. When they want to eat, just heat it and it was ready. Which was very convenient.

    Lin Qing He also prepared a lot for the family. It was frozen.

    When her second child came back, he brought back a lot of steamed buns. There was no worry of it going off in this kind of weather.

    Zhou Xuan gave steamed two extra steamed buns. There was a bowl of reheated mutton soup excess. Which was just right.

    Lin Qing He munched on an apple in the room after freshening up and said, "I don't have any appetite."

    She ate too much meat in winter, so she wanted to be a vegetarian during breakfast. Since it was made, she will eat some.

    She just ate a tiny bit and let Zhou Qing Bai eat the rest. Zhou Qing Bai was very diligent last night since the couple only woke now. Naturally, he was hungry. Seeing that his wife really didn’t want to eat, he gobbled up both shares.

    The couple finished eating and watched TV together.

    At lunch, Lin Qing He had a little, while Zhou Qing Bai ate a little more. Then the two went shopping together.

    When Zhou Er Ni brought Su Cheng and Su Xun brothers over, only Zhou Xuan, who was reading books, and Ma Xiao Dan from next door, who was watching TV, left at home.

    "Fourth Uncle and Fourth Aunt are out?" asked Zhou Er Ni.

    "En. It's a rare break from work. They probably went to watch movies and have fun." Zhou Xuan nodded, he was extremely familiar with his parents.

    Whenever they have time, they will leave them behind and go on their own.

    Zhou Er Ni smiled. Currently, she wasn't living at the dumpling shop. She moved to her grandparent's place yesterday.

    Business was closed, so the shop wasn't open. With no one going, it was best to move to her grandparent's side.

    Zhou Er Ni, who didn't return to her hometown, studied very hard. Even during the New Year celebration, she would grab a book to read and then learn accounting knowledge.

    Zhou Er Ni saw Zhou Xuan reading an English book and uttered with admiration: "You can understand all of this?"

    "Can understand, but haven't fully comprehended it. My mom can interpret it like it's her mother tongue." Zhou Xuan said.

    "Fourth Aunt is amazing." Zhou Er Ni admired her.

    Zhou Xuan smiled. His mom worked very hard. She would relax during holidays, but when there were no holidays, she would basically be attached to a book.

    "You brothers hungry? Have you eaten yet?" Zhou Xuan asked Su Cheng and Su Xun.

    "We have eaten." Su Cheng nodded.

    Su Xun said, "Where is my eldest cousin? I came to learn martial arts from him."

    "He went out." Zhou Xuan replied: "Let's watch TV first. Maybe he will be back later. This is Ma Wen. His nickname is Ma Xiao Dan."

    He introduced them to Ma Xiao Dan.

    Then they watched TV together. The TV drama at the moment was still very good. After all, the current culture was relatively lacking, so everything was very novel.

    Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai threw the matters at home to the back of their mind. As expected, the couple came to watch the movie.

    "The theme of these movies is getting bolder and bolder now." Lin Qing He remarked when she came out of the movie theater.

    As the reformation strongly rooted dow and economic development becoming rapid, the movies also turned bolder. It wasn't like the past where it can only play the war of resistance.

    Zhou Qin Bai can sense it was apparent. This year, there had been news from his hometown that the installation of electricity in the village had arrived.

    In other words, Zhoujia Village will thoroughly have electricity by next year at the latest.

    This was another feature of rapid development.

    The couple rarely came to dine with Father Zhou and Mother Zhou. So on the last day of  '81, the two of them brought meat over for New Year's Eve's dinner. Their sons also joined the table.

    Previous


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  • Sunday, 25 April 2021

    BTTS 363




    Chapter 363. Skin care

    After Zhou Kai left, Zhu Zhen Zhen entered the house with a flushed face.

    Old Madam Zhu was sewing the soles of the shoes. When she saw her come in, she said: "Why are you coming in? Go out and wait. Zhou Kai will definitely come over today."

    "I...I may have seen the one you were talking about, Gran." Zhu Zhen Zhen curled her lips and uttered with a flushed face.

    When old Madam Zhu heard this, she hurriedly asked, "Is it a very tall, handsome, and very energetic young man?"

    Zhu Zhen Zhen nodded embarrassedly: "En. Tall and handsome. But he appears a little mature. Is he really only eighteen years old after the New Year?"

    "How can it be fake. He's this tall, so he certainly doesn't look tender anymore. Still, this big lad is perfect. No flaws at all. Do you like him? If you like him, Gran will find some time to settle it for you." Old Madam Zhu said.

    Old Mister Zhu couldn't listen anymore and said: "New Year is coming in a blink of an eye, so don't talk about it. If you want to, wait until after the New  Year."

    "I didn't say now. After the New Year then." Old Madam Zhu didn't worry. The lad was still young and have no partner, so she wasn't afraid of him being snatched away.

    What's more, she had a good relationship with old Madam Zhou. Letting her wonderful granddaughter be her granddaughter-in-law will make old Madam Zhou smirk in happiness.

    Zhu Zhen Zhen blushed and said nothing.

    Zhou Kai, who didn't know someone had their thoughts on him, was eating buns and lamb ribs in his youngest uncle's shop.

    "This...this pear...the pear is so...fresh." Su Da Lin said as eat bit into the pear.

    He had been getting a little overheated recently. Currently, this pear tasted particularly delicious.

    "Little uncle, if you like it, you can go to the mall to buy it. We went to the mall yesterday and we saw that they weren't as fresh as the ones my dad bought." Zhou Kai said.

    "En." Su Da Lin nodded. Seeing that he was finished eating, he asked: "Do... you... want more?"

    "No. I'm full." Zhou Kai replied: "We heard about it over at our side. The situation will become more and more stable in the future. Uncle, now you have moved here, have you thought of buying the shop?"

    Su Da Lin responded, "Your...your dad...also...said the same...thing."

    "En. You won't do badly after buying it." Zhou Kai nodded.

    As for the dumpling shop, his mother bought it at the end of '79. So he didn't say anything.

    At that time, she could come up with three thousand yuan to buy a shop. How much money was this? At that time, his parents didn't have any business, so they relied on the money they earned from the field. Everyone with a discerning eye knew that it was hard to feed a family with that little work.

    Where did the money come from?

    So it didn't need to be said.

    Su Da Lin said: "It's... too...too expensive. Your...your dad's...dumplings... dumpling shop...was four...four thousand."

    Zhou Kai understood when he heard these words. His mom must have said it and smiled in his heart.

    On the surface, he said: "I had heard my mother. Four thousand yuan seems to be a lot, but my dad's dumpling shop actually made that in a year or so."

    The business at the dumpling shop was very good even though the margin is thin. He was also engaged in business, so Su Da Lin had some estimation in his heart. He nodded without much surprise.

    After all, his profit here was similar.

    "Few thousands seem to be expensive, but you can make it back in a year or so. The days in the future are still long, so you have to have your own shop for stability." Zhou Kai maintained.

    "That's... seem... logical." Su Da Lin nodded.

    Business was good now, but Su Da Lin was actually a little worried. After all, the shop wasn't his own.

    Xiao Mei had said the same thing. If the shop was their own, it will be much more stable and no one can interfere with their business.

    Soon someone came to buy steamed buns, so Su Da Lin went to serve the customer. They bought a lot. Three oil-paper bags of it.

    So Su Da Lin added one extra to the original order without hesitation.

    "Thank you." The customer was delighted and smilingly said.

    Su Da Lin smiled.

    Have to say, Su Da Lin was really good at doing business. He learned this from Zhou Qing Bai.

    Steamed buns were truly good value steamed buns. Excellent taste and low profits. But it was hard work Except for the first month when they only made one hundred or so, the rest were an income of two to three hundred yuan a month.

    And most importantly, his steamed bun shop had a very good reputation. Usually, those who wanted to eat steamed buns will come over to specially buy them even if it was a little farther away

    Zhou Kai sat around for a while. One after another, people came over to buy them. Most of them got a few oil paper bags full. The minimum was few buns for themselves. The business was very good.

    "Youngest Uncle, I'm going back first." Zhou Kai informed.

    "Take... some back... back." Su Da Lin said hurriedly.

    "No need. I'm going to my classmate's house. Not going home." Zhou Kai replied. He went directly out to the main road to wait for the bus. He caught a ride to old Weng's house.

    It wasn't early now. Father Weng and Mother Weng' were both off on vacation. They were very happy to see him coming.

    Especially Mother Weng. She accusingly remarked: "You came here the day before yesterday and haven't stayed for dinner. If you don't stay for lunch today, then I will be angry."

    "I came here early today just the food. Aunt, you got to cook two more dishes for me." Zhou Kai handed her the apples he bought outside and said with a smile.

    "Okay, no problem." Mother Weng grinned.

    "Once you come, you are my family's son." Weng Guo Liang commented helplessly.

    Zhou Kai smiled and then asked, "Where is Mei Jia?"

    "Mei Jia went out with her classmates. At this time, she should be back soon." Mother Weng responded: "The honey and grapefruit tea that your mom gave me last time was really good, especially delicious."

    "My mom likes to make these when she is free. There are still several jars of honey in stock at home. I see her drinks it every day and also gets dad to join her." Zhou Kai said.

    "Then your mom can really take care of her skin. I heard that drinking honey is very good for the skin." Mother Weng said.

    "Yes, it is." Zhou Kai nodded.

    His mother was really particular, especially about these. What he didn't mention were those egg masks, honey masks, and cucumber masks she made.

    She can smear anything on the face, but really, his mom looked more than five or six years younger than her peers.

    How could Lin Qing He possibly know that Mother Weng had begun to explore this aspect? She slept until after nine o'clock and then came to the dumpling shop to eat a dumpling.

    "Where is Eldest?" Lin Qing He asked Zhou Qing Bai.

    "Went to his grandparents' side." Zhou Qing Bai answered.

    "Then you don't need to prepare his portion for lunch. Let's have mutton soup with grilled?" Lin Qing He asked.

    "Okay." Zhou Qing Bai nodded.

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  • Saturday, 24 April 2021

    BTTS 362




     Chapter 362. Found himself pretty handsome


    It wasn't easy to see Zhou Kai.

    It was rare for him to come back. He did come over to see his grandparents, but most of the time he stayed at home with his parents.

    For example, today. He and his two younger brothers were taken to the mall by Lin Qing He.

    Although he will go back to the academy after the New Year, Lin Qing He still bought him new clothes, from top to toe.

    Zhou Kai said, "I won't have much chance to wear it." Once he's back at the academy, he had to wear a uniform, which was all the same.

    "It's alright if you can't wear it a few times." Lin Qing He didn't mind.

    Zhou Gui Lai saw a camera on a shelf in the mall.

    Lin Qing He noticed this boy's behavior and gave him two glances. She didn't buy it for him yet. Wait until next year.

    Sons ah. One can meet his requirements, but he can't be satisfied as soon as his wish comes up. The most correct way was to leave him hanging for a while.

    It was to let him know that things aren't easy to come by and that it was even more difficult for parents to make money.

    That was how one should raise their sons. Can't spoil them too much, otherwise, it would be easy for them to become a white-eyed wolf.

    However, Lin Qing He wasn't aware that her eldest son was excluded (from the above statement). Afterward, Second and Third got a few sets of clothes and two pairs of shoes. If this wasn't doting, then what was?

    Can only say that the standards were different.

    After all, a camera was a few hundred. She wanted to buy a good one, which was a minimum of four to five hundred yuan.

    The mother and sons came to the dumpling shop after shopping.

    In the dumpling shop, Zhou Qing Bai, Zhou Er Ni, and Aunt Ma were all busy.

    It was the end of the year. Raw dumplings were selling well. Everyone didn't want to make it themselves, so they just came over and buy some to cook at home.

    "Hurry up and help. Have to make another ten jin of dumplings." Zhou Er Ni told Zhou Kai and the others.

    Everyone was making dumplings. Lin Qing He asked, "When is our dumpling shop on holiday?"

    "Twenty-eighth,." answered workaholic Zhou Qing Bai.

    He had written a red sign and stuck it outside the door. It was open as normal until the twenty-eighth day and then it was closed for holiday. Then after the seventh of January, the dumpling shop would continue to open.

    Su Da Lin's bun shop's opening was the same as his.

    Lin Qing He didn't have any objection. Then twenty-eighth it was.

    Aunt Ma smiled and said, "Business is good. It's fine to do for two more days."

    The other workers under Lin Qing He was on vacation without pay, while Aunt Ma was still working like normal. Once she is off for the New Year, she'll get a paid leave.

    For Aunt Ma, that was wonderful. Basically, she had nothing to do and the whole family was idle at home. Why not earn more?

    "Have to give Aunt Ma a vacation." Lin Qing He said with a smile: "Why haven't Xiao Dan come over to watch TV these past few days?"

    Ma Xiao Dan was a frequent visitor and comes to watch TV every day.

    "He has some cough these past two days. His father had taken him to the hospital today." Aunt Ma answered.

    "How is it now?" Lin Qing He asked.

    "It's better. Just doesn't have much energy." Aunt Ma replied.

    Lin Qing He smiled and said, "Make him some good food and the child will soon recover."

    In this cold weather, it was easier to catch a cold as a child's resistance was weaker. For example, Zhou Xiao Mei's third child, Su Ya also caught a cold.

    It was because she kicked the quilt at night.

    Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai were eating pears in their room that day. She said, "There are still a lot of apples and pears in my space. Let Eldest bring some of them with him tomorrow."

    "How to explain?" Zhou Qing Bai asked.

    Lin Qing He laughed: "Apples and pears aren't something rare. At most, these ones are fresher. So there is no need to be so anxious."

    There were also apples and pears available out there now. But they were not as fresh as the ones she brought out.

    After all, they were bought during the peak season and kept in the space for the couple to eat and nourish themselves in the winter.

    However, there were many children at Zhou Xiao Mei's side, so it was fine to send some over.

    Zhou Qing Bai didn't say anything.

    The next day he went out with the bag first. When Zhou Kai and the others went over to have breakfast, he told them to bring it over.

    "Dad, where did you buy it? It's so fresh?" Zhou Kai grabbed one to eat and remarked.

    "I bought it in the morning." Zhou KaiQing Bai said and pointed to another bag: "This is from our family. Don't eat those, they're for your grandparents and your aunt's family."

    "Okay." Zhou Kai nodded. Then he munched on the apple as he carried the bag over to his grandparents' place.

    "How can there be such fresh fruit at this time?" Mother Zhou uttered in surprise.

    "There are still some in the mall." Zhou Kai said. It's just the price was more expensive. He said to Zhou Xiao Mei: "Maybe my mom asked my dad to buy it. Aunt, you can stew a rock sugar with pear for Ya Ya. Drink this and the cough will be gone."

    "How to stew?" Zhou Xiao Mei asked.

    "Aunt, you don’t know how to make it. Just cut open the pears, hollow out the core of the fruit, pour some cold water in, throw in two red dates and a few rock sugar, put them in a bowl, and stew them in a pot. Drink." Zhou Kai said.

    When he was young, his mother had bought some pears every winter and made them this to drink.

    Zhou Xiao Mei was speechless: "Fourth Sister-in-law really treats you like young masters." Just by listening, she felt it took a lot of effort

    Mother Zhou said: "Just follow that. I drank it once and it was really good."

    Zhou Xiao Mei went to make one for Ya Ya. Once Ya Ya drank the daily rock sugar and pear soup, she brightened up.

    "Eat more apples. When you are sick, eat more of this to supplement vitamins." Zhou Kai said.

    But there was a lot brought over. One net bag of apples and one net bag of pears.

    "Must have cost a lot." Zhou Xiao Mei responded.

    "I guess, my dad found it was rare to encounter such fresh ones, so he bought more. There are more at home. It's bought, so eat it." Zhou Kai didn't care.

    Zhou Xiao Mei smiled and gave the children one each.

    "I'm heading to my youngest uncle's shop to eat bun now." Zhou Kai said.

    "Bring a pear to your little uncle and let him peel and have it. He was a little heated yesterday." Zhou Xiao Mei grabbed two pears: "Have one yourself."

    "I ate one already." Zhou Kai said, but didn't refuse. It was delicious.

    As soon as he left the house, he encountered Zhu Zhen Zhen from next door. This was not a coincidence. Zhu Zhen Zhen had been there for a few days and still didn't see him.

    Her effort paid off. Today, she finally came across his visit. If she didn't today, she didn't plan to come.

    But from this look, it really made her heart skip a beat.

    Zhou Kai swept a glance at her. Seeing that she was like a frightened little white rabbit, he felt perplexed. Was he so hideous? He believed he was quite handsome!

    He ignored her. He didn't know her after all. He turned around and went to his youngest uncle's bun shop to have buns and mutton soup. Both pears were eaten by his youngest uncle.

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  • Friday, 23 April 2021

    BTTS 361




     Chapter 361. Obsequious


    Zhou Kai came to his grandparent's place for dinner in the evening.

    He promised his grandmother that he'll come over to have dinner.

    They had mutton tonight. The mutton was stewed as soup with radish. Su Da Lin's cooking was excellent. Especially now he made added mutton soup to the menu for customers. The taste was perfected.

    Zhou Kai was satisfied with his dinner. Then he went over to the chair to watch TV. The chairs were cushioned with thick cushions, so they were comfortable to sit on.

    "Eldest Cousin, can you teach me how to punch?" Su Xun came over and asked. He stared at cousin with slight admiration.

    "Now I'm too full, I can't teach you. I will show you a trick or two later. Once you're in school, whoever dares to provoke you, you can beat them." Zhou Kai said.

    Su Xun's eyes lit up.

    "Da Wa, why are you teaching him this?" Zhou Xiao Mei was speechless.

    Su Da Lin was also didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

    "What's wrong with teaching this? My mother taught us like this. Not allowed to bully others, but if anyone dares to bully us, fight back on the spot. Don’t leave it overnight. If you can’t beat them, run away. If not, get beaten for nothing." Zhou Kai said.

    Even at this age, he still felt that his mother was extremely reasonable.

    Zhou Xiao Mei laughed: "My fourth sister-in-law is really fierce. If they hurt another's child, wouldn't she get annoyed by those in the village's scolding?"

    She knew that some women in the village were very fierce in scolding people. They can keep at it for more than an hour.

    "My mother said that was her business. We don't need to care about it. It's enough that we don't suffer." Zhou Kai grinned.

    Su Cheng and Su Xun both looked envious. Their mother wouldn't allow them to fight.

    Father Zhou and Mother Zhou didn't say anything.

    The two of them had personally seen Second's get thrown down by Fourth's wife.

    Fourth's wife was a civilized person. She wouldn't yell at people. But if she was really provoked, a neat over-the-shoulder throw can knock someone down.

    After that, Second's wife behaved. Even when she often talk behind Fourth's wife's back, she never dared to say it in front of her.

    "Boys. It's normal to fight. As long as you don't bully others, there's no need to be afraid. In the end, don't let others bully you, right?" Zhou Kai said.

    "Eldest Cousin is right." Su Xun nodded.

    "Did anyone at school bully you?" Zhou Kai asked.

    "There's nobody. Still, I want to learn. Maybe I can use it in the future." Su Xun said.

    "All right. Let's sit down for now." Zhou Kai said.

    But before he could teach his little cousin, old Madam Zhu from next door came over.

    Mother Zhou introduced: "This is Granny Zhu."

    "Hello, Granny Zhu." Zhou Kai nodded and greeted.

    "Hello, hello." Old Madam Zhu was ecstatic. Zhou Kai dropped by every day since his return, but it always happened when she was out. That was why she hadn't seen him until now.

    From this examination, old Madam Zhu was really satisfied.

    This young man appeared really energetic. He was also tall and bulky. His body showed promise.

    "I heard your grandmother say, you are only eighteen after the New Year. How did you grow so tall?" Old Madam Zhu smilingly spoke.

    The more she looked at Zhou Kai, the more she felt that this was going to be her grandson-in-law.

    "Got it from my parents. They are also very tall." Zhou Kai answered with slight modesty.

    "I heard that your mother is a foreign language teacher at Bei University?" Old Madam Zhu asked.

    "En." Zhou Kai nodded.

    "Your dad is now self-employed? I wonder if being self-employed profitable?" Old Madam Zhu continued.

    If her granddaughter marries over, it was necessary to understand the general situation. Hearing from Mother Zhou didn't count. It was better to personally hear it from this young man.

    "I don't know how the business is. I don't manage it. My dad is in charge, but from what I see, it's so-so." Zhou Kai glanced at her and replied.

    "Then are you going to join the army in the future? That's really good. It's suitable for a young man like you." Old Madam Zhu remarked.

    Zhou Kai just smiled and did not say anything else.

    Old Madam Zhu noticed that he didn't speak anymore, so she started talking with Mother Zhou, "Your grandson is really tall and big. Such a good young man."

    Mother Zhou smiled modestly and said, "Just a bit too tall."

    Because there were a lot of people, old Madam Zhu didn't say too much. She was prepared to talk to Mother Zhou in private. For now, they watched TV together.

    Speaking of this, old Zhou family principles weren't bad.

    Especially this lad's parents. They were filial. If this lad marries her granddaughter in the future, he will definitely be filial to her too.

    Old Madam Zhu's granddaughter was called Zhu Zhen Zhen.

    The next day, she brought her over for Mother Zhou to see. Mother Zhou smilingly remarked, "This is your granddaughter ah! Quite beautiful."

    Upon hearing this, Old Madam Zhu became delighted and then urged her granddaughter, "Zhen Zhen, what are you waiting for? Greet Granny Zhou."

    "Hello, Granny Zhou." Huang Zhen Zhen's voice was similar to that of a mosquito.

    Such a girl, Mother Zhou couldn't take a liking to. She liked the open and generous type. None of her few daughters-in-law have such an obsequious temperament.

    But this was someone else’s granddaughter, so Mother Zhou didn’t say anything. She just smiled and acknowledged it. “I’m going to cut the radishes. My grandson said he wants to eat my pickled sweet and sour radishes. I won't chat with you."

    "Alright. You busy away." Old Madam Zhu smiled.

    She took Zhu Zhen Zhen home. Only then, she couldn't help but say: "Zhen Zhen, didn't Gran tell you to be more sensible? Know how to interact?"

    "Gran, her family moved from a foreign town. How can they be as good as you say?" Zhu Zhen Zhen hesitantly muttered.

    "What do you know? Young Kai's mother is a foreign language teacher at Bei University and his father is a self-employed person. I heard old Madam Zhou said that the business was doing well. Young Kai himself is outstanding. You don't want this, then what do want?" Old Madam Zhu uttered.

    "Gran, what you say is right but I haven't seen him yet." Zhu Zhen Zhen bowed her head.

    In front of Mother Zhou, she appeared meek, but in private it wasn't so.

    "You still don’t trust Gran’s eyesight? Gran had never seen such a spirited young man. Although he is a year younger than you, it doesn’t matter at all. He is much taller than you. If you don’t believe your Gran, ask your grandfather. Your grandfather had met Young Kai.” said old Madam Zhu.

    "Don't be so enthusiastic. I feel Young Kai might not be interested in Zhen Zhen." Uncle Zhu couldn't help say.

    Old Madam Zhu didn't like these words: "Why won't he be interested in a girl like Zhen Zhen? What's more, he is going to be a soldier in the future. Zhen Zhen will have to stay at home. It'll be hard on Zhen Zhen. What is there to dislike? Zhen Zhen hasn't said anything yet."

    Old Mister Zhu stopped talking.

    "Gran, when will he come? I will check him out." Zhu Zhen Zhen lowered her head and said.

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  • Thursday, 22 April 2021

    BTTS 360




     Chapter 360. Had not grown up yet


    Doll was the nickname given to Weng Mei Jia by Zhou Kai. As she was as beautiful as a doll.

    Weng Mei Jia pursed her lips in amusement but gave him an eye-roll.

    Zhou Kai sat there for more than an hour before returning.

    Weng Guo Liang wanted to make an appointment with him to head to the bathhouse together.

    This was the custom here. Best buds went to the bathhouse and scrub together.

    As soon as Zhou Kai left, Weng Guo Liang said, "Zhou Kai got ability. Once he leaves the military academy, he can be immediately promoted when he joins us."

    He graduated with Zhou Kai this year. After graduation, he went to the army.

    Currently, it was vacation time for him too.

    "Now Young Kai is back, you brother and sister have to visit his house." Mother Weng spoke.

    "Second Brother alone is enough. I don't have to go, right?" Weng Mei Jia uttered in shyness.

    "Go together." Mother Weng dismissed.

    She hadn't met Lin Qing He yet, but she had seen photos of Lin Qing He, Zhou Qing Bai, and the others.

    During the graduation period, Weng Guo Liang had photos taken with Lin Qing He's group. One of them was a group photo. The rest were photos of Weng Guo Liang and Zhou Kai.

    In fact, almost no parents attended any graduation ceremonies at this time.

    So Father Weng and Mother Weng had never thought of this. It was when their son brought the photos back, they felt upset with themselves.

    But have to say, Lin Qing He and Zhou Qing Bai in the photo were almost impeccable.

    Zhou Qing Bai was tall and steady while Lin Qing He appeared intellectual and fashionable. It can be said they were an extremely high-aesthetic couple.

    It was no wonder that they can raise such an excellent child.

    So the next day, Weng Guo Liang and Weng Mei Jia came over with a box of snacks.

    Lin Qing He knew Weng Guo Liang, who was a graduate of Peking University. But not Weng Mei Jia.

    However, the two of them look a bit alike. One can tell they were siblings from a glance.

    "This is doll-like Weng Family's sister you mentioned before?" Lin Qing He looked at Weng Mei Jia in delight and asked her eldest son.

    "Yes. Her name is Weng Mei Jia." Zhou Kai smiled and nodded proudly.

    Weng Mei Jia copied her brother and greeted Teacher Lin with slight shyness.

    "Don't be so stodgy like your brother and call Teacher Lin. Mei Jia call me Aunt Lin." Lin Qing He grinned.

    "Aunt Lin." Weng Mei Jia went along.

    "What a beautiful girl. No wonder Eldest say you are the most beautiful girl-next-door he has ever seen. Sit down. How about drinking some honey and grapefruit tea to moisturizes your throat?" Lin Qing He asked.

    "Teacher Lin, no need to be so polite. Just water is enough." Weng Guo Liang smilingly declined.

    "It's no trouble. You guys, sit down, I'll make you a drink." Lin Qing He smiled.

    She went to wash a few cups Then she made a few cups of honey and grapefruit tea. This was her stock, which she got during the grapefruit season and placed in her space.

    Of course, it was taken out for everyone to drink. Normally, they were taken out of the room. The children didn’t know how much there was.

    In short, she had a lot in stock.

    After adjusting a few cups, Lin Qing He gave them one cup each.

    Weng Guo Liang and Weng Mei were very polite. They thanked her before drinking it.

    "Does it taste good?" Lin Qing He asked Weng Mei Jia.

    "Delicious. Where did you buy it, Aunt Lin?" Weng Mei Jia nodded.

    "I didn't buy it. I made it myself. There are still some in my room. In a bit, I will go and give you a can." Lin Qing He stated.

    "No need, Aunt Lin. Keep it for yourself." Weng Mei Jia said embarrassedly.

    Drink it was enough. No need to take it back.

    "This honey grapefruit tea is good for beauty. The effect is very good. If you don't want it, then bring a jar back to your mother. This taste is not sweet or sour. Just perfect. She will like it." Lin Qing He maintained.

    Weng Mei Jia smiled and did not decline. She said, "Thank you, Aunt Lin."

    The two siblings came over and sat for more than two hours before returning.

    On the way back, Weng Mei Jia happily chatted with her second brother: "I didn't know that Aunt Lin is such a nice person."

    "Teacher Lin has always been very cheery and frank. I think she likes you." Weng Guo Liang said.

    There were female students in the class who were close to Zhou Kai. Teacher Lin didn't express anything, but this time, it was apparent that Teacher Lin was very friendly.

    The two siblings got home with a jar of honey and grapefruit tea.

    "What's this?" Mother Weng was watching TV and when she saw the honey and grapefruit tea her daughter gave to her, she uttered.

    "This is the honey and grapefruit tea that Aunt Lin gave you. She made two cups for us and it was delicious." Weng Mei Jia said.

    "Oh my?" Mother Weng broke into a big grin at once and then asked, "Teacher Lin was home?"

    "At the time we went, she was guiding Zhou Kai on his English." Weng Guo Liang answered.

    "Guiding Young Kai on his English?" Mother Weng was puzzled.

    "Although Zhou Kai graduated, Teacher Lin's intention that he shouldn't drop his English. She had found him two English books for him to read." Weng Guo Liang explained.

    Mother Weng was very impressed. She couldn't help but said, "Wouldn't it be too much work? He has to train and study. And also read English books."

    "It's alright." Weng Guo Liang didn't care very much. Having a lot of work wasn't a problem. He envied Zhou Kai a little bit.

    "When you were over there, what was Teacher's attitude toward you?" Mother Weng asked again.

    "Mom, why are you asking this? Teacher Lin was naturally very friendly to us." Weng Guo Liang responded: "Teacher Lin was going to give this jar of honey and grapefruit tea to Mei Jia. Mei Jia declined, so she told us to bring it back to you.

    "Aunt Lin is very nice and easy to get along with. She also said when if she is free, she will come over and visit you, Mom." Weng Mei Jia nodded.

    "Then I will welcome her warmly." Mother Weng said happily.

    It wasn't only Mother Weng who was overjoyed. Lin Qing He was as well.

    She spoke to her eldest son: "Your classmate’s younger sister looks quite pretty. She is generous and decent. Her family raised her well. She is polite."

    Zhou Kai grinned: "Mom, if you like her so much, then recognize her as your goddaughter."

    Lin Qing He looked at her son with contempt. This kid hadn't emotionally grown up yet.

    "Forget the god-relationship." Lin Qing He waved her hand and decided to remind her elder son: "If you find a wife in the future, find someone like this. Gentle and generous. Beautiful and proper."

    Zhou Kai had almost spurted out the tea he just drunk. He looked at his mother helplessly: "Mom, I'm only seventeen years old, what are you thinking?"

    "Okay." Lin Qing He shrugged and didn't continue.

    One reminder was enough. The girl will enter the military medical field in the future. How well she matches her eldest son. What's more, there were many bachelors over there. If she didn't give a hint, he will regret it if someone else gets her first.

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  • Wednesday, 21 April 2021

    BTTS 359




     Chapter 359. Weng Mei Jia


    When old Madam Hu came over to old Madam Zhu's place, she brought this up.

    Old Madam Zhu was surprised: "Really this outstanding?"

    "Ain't that right? You know that old man of mine, most people usually can't get enter his eyes. He can't stop praising him after seeing him once," Old Madam Hu replied.

    Old Madam Zhu's mind moved when she heard this.

    She got an eldest granddaughter. She was an honest person. Eighteen years old this year and nineteen after the new year.

    "Last time how old did  Xiao Mei's mother did say her eldest grandson was?" Old Madam Zhu asked.

    "Seventeen. Eighteen after this year." Old Madam Hu answered. She felt that this young man was pretty good: "Not eighteen yet and almost 1.9 meters."

    "That's pretty tall." Old Madam Zhu said as her eyes spun.

    Old Madam Hu was a clever person, so she knew what she was thinking from her expression. After all, how many years had they been neighbors? They were familiar with each other's family situation?

    Old Madam Zhu had an eldest granddaughter, who had reached marriageable age. Nine out of ten, old Zhou's eldest grandson caught her eye.

    But old Madam Hu didn't say anything since she felt it won't happen.

    Despite the fact that old Zhou's old couple were foreign residents, but their daughter-in-law was capable. She was Bei University's foreign language teacher and had moved the family over through the university's connection.

    Now they were true citizens of the capital. So there is no such thing as looking down on foreign household registration.

    Especially when their son and daughter-in-law were promising and filial. They bought a TV, electric fans and the likes. While their own son and daughter-in-law couldn't compare.

    Still, old Madam Hu came up with some ideas.

    Especially when she got a grand-nephew from her maternal family's side, who wasn't married yet. It would be great if he could marry the granddaughter of the old Zhou family named Sheng Mei.

    She had seen this young lady. She was well-behaved and very obedient. Her grandnephew was a little wild, but he liked this kind of girl.

    What's more, this young lady was pretty. She must be able to change her grandnephew for the better.

    But it was a pity that he went back this year. If not, she planned to call her grandnephew over this year and let him see if he likes her or not.

    If he likes her, then there was no problem.

    The girl's conditions here were average, while her maternal grandnephew's family was excellent. She won't lose out in this marriage.

    The two old ladies each have their own thoughts. Compared with them, Mother Zhou was more naive and sweet.

    While she was in a high spirit, old Madam Zhu came to inquire. Mother Zhou said with a smile: "He is back, but only for ten days. After this  New Year, he has to go back."

    "That busy?" Old Madam Zhu asked.

    "Ain't that right? This kid has always been progressive since he was a child. He had applied for harder difficulty training. He used to be quite fair, but this time he came back as black as charcoal." Mother Zhou remarked like was complaining.

    Old Madam Zhu was quite pleased. It didn't matter that boys are tanned. Having aspiration and ambition was the important point.

    "Really, your eldest grandson came over and you didn't call me. I haven't even seen your brilliant eldest grandson." Old Madam Zhu uttered.

    Mother Zhou liked to listen to these words and beamed: "No need to be afraid of having no chance. Da Wa is filial. He will come to see us every day."

    Oh, eldest grandson really give them face. Of course, the grandsons behind were the same. Er Wa and San Wa were both great.

    Zhou Kai went to visit his youngest uncle and aunt before going back.

    At noon, they had mantou with pork belly chicken. This simple meal made this young man fulfilled. There was sweat on his forehead.

    Lin Qing He added pepper in the pig's stomach in chicken. It wasn't spicy, but it was very fragrant.

    "Eldest Brother, do you want to go to the bathhouse." Zhou Gui Lai asked.

    "Yes." Zhou Kai nodded. He wanted to take a good bath.

    Zhou Xuan joined them. The brothers went to the bathhouse for a good while. When Zhou Kai came out, he felt a few jins lighter.

    The three brothers went to the bathhouse and when they came back, there was only Second and Third.

    "Eldest Brother went to his classmate's house for a visit." Zhou Xuan told.

    Zhou Kai's university classmate Weng Guo Liang.

    Old Weng Family was delighted to have him over.

    Father Weng heartily said: "It's enough that you can visit in person during your holiday. No need to bring wine."

    Zhou Kai didn't come empty-handed. He brought a bottle of good Mou Tai wine. He responded with a smile: "I come over to have a few drinks with Uncle."

    Weng Guo Liang spoke: "Why have you become this dark this year?"

    "Yes. As black as charcoal. You won't be able to get a wife in the future." Weng Guo Liang's sister Weng Mei Jia looked at Zhou Kai and stated.

    "Being darker is no big deal. Let me tell you, girls like us to like this. Bringing us out, they'll feel pride," Zhou Kai said.

    Weng Guo Liang laughed: "Come on. No one can match you in narcissism."

    Weng Mei Jia also pursed her lips in amusement, "Brother Zhou Kai, did you get a girlfriend?"

    "I'm only this old. Despite studying early, I'm just a few months older than you." Zhou Kai said.

    He was tall and bulky. But in terms of age, it wasn't really that big. When out in the crowd, he must be the youngest one.

    But talking about other things, who can be compared to him. There weren't many.

    Father Weng smiled and said, "Mei Jia is only a senior freshman this year."

    "Which course did Mei Jia apply for?" Zhou Kai asked.

    "She went to study nursing and will be a nurse in the future," answered Father Weng.

    "That's really good." Zhou Kai looked at Weng Mei Jia and said, "My mother said that the nursing profession will be very popular in the future."

    Weng Mei Jia curled into a grin and smiled.

    "Mei Jia said that she will go to the army to be in the military medical field. Young Kai, you have to take care of her more." Mother Weng had cut the apple and came out.

    Father Weng understood what his wife was thinking.

    When Young Kai was only fourteen years old, his wife had the idea of ​​taking him as their son-in-law.

    In recent years, as Young Kai grew and became more promising, his wife's mind has become more and more unconcealed.

    So he felt a little helpless. It was reasonable to say that the young man wasn't bad, but his little girl was also not inferior. Whether it was career-wise or looks, she was at the top. There were a few colleagues in his workplace who were asking about her. Was there a need to be passionate?

    Still, he didn't say anything. After all, he liked this young man too. His family conditions were excellent. More importantly, his parents were reasonable. If it was fated to,  then it would be wonderful.

    "Going to be a military medical field?" Zhou Kai looked at Weng Mei Jia in surprise, "It will be tougher."

    "It's nothing. My eldest and second brothers are both over there." Weng Mei Jia glanced at him and responded.

    "Time is so fast. In a blink of an eye, doll became so big." Zhou Kai emotionally remarked.

    He watched this classmate's sister grow up.

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