Yun Chuman finished unpacking her luggage and went to the kitchen on the first floor.
She needed to check if the production team had prepared any ingredients for the guests; if not, she'd have to go out and buy some.
The kitchen was spacious and fully equipped, even including the currently popular air fryer.
Yun Chuman curiously looked around before opening the double-door refrigerator, which was filled to the brim with fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats.
A small basket hanging on the side of the refrigerator held various seasonings.
She glanced through them casually and smiled upon recognizing the familiar seasonings—she knew what to eat tonight!
The weather here was so nice; it would be a waste not to experience outdoor hot pot with Yun Juan and Yun Shu!
Having made up her mind, Yun Chuman prepared to call the two children back and also took three ice creams from the freezer.
She remembered seeing Yun Juan and Yun Shu playing hide-and-seek in the small garden in front of the kitchen when she first entered, so without thinking, she headed straight for the garden.
However, after searching extensively, the ice creams had started to melt, and she couldn't find the two children.
Yun Chuman was a little anxious. She hurried around to the back and finally spotted two chubby little figures by the pool.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu were squatting side by side by the pool, intently watching something.
Yun Chuman walked over curiously and gently patted their cheeks with ice cream. "Little Juan, Little Shu, what are you doing?"
The two children simultaneously trembled slightly. Then they turned around in unison and their eyes sparkled.
They had been running around outside for a long time; their chubby cheeks were rosy, with beads of sweat on their noses, and their soft hair clung to their little heads.
"Look how hot you become, have some ice cream."
Yun Chuman sat down next to them, opened the ice cream bag in her hand, and casually wiped their sweat.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu happily accepted the ice cream, then plopped down on the ground, and exclaimed in unison, "Thank you, Mommy!"
One big and two small sat happily on the ground by the pool, eating ice cream. The warm sunshine felt wonderful on their skin.
The two children had taken off their shoes and tossed them aside. Their four chubby little feet dangled and occasionally stomped on each other.
"Mommy, I want to play in the water..." Yun Shu said, munching on her ice cream while gazing longingly at the pool. Her short, chubby toes wiggled nimbly.
"Mommy, I want to play too! The water must be so refreshing," Yun Juan said, his eyes practically glued to the pool.
Hearing them say this, Yun Chuman suddenly became interested as well.
Swimming! Another new experience! She wanted to play too!
Her expression of longing and anticipation was even more pronounced than the two children's.
Only the private areas in the small villa had no cameras, while the rest of the house was practically 360 degrees without blind spots.
So, the scene of one adult and two children sitting side-by-side on the ground with their identical puppy-dog eyes fixed longingly on the pool was clearly visible to the viewers in the live stream. The chat instantly erupted with a barrage of "Let them swim!"
The production team was clearly prepared.
The moment this comment appeared, Xiao Xi rushed over from next door in a wheeled cart, pushing a pile of swimsuits. She stopped abruptly in front of Yun Chuman, Yun Juan, and Yun shu, then turned and ran back – a perfect tool.
But before leaving, she didn't forget to call out, "The pool water was just changed today, it's very clean, play without worry!"
The adult and two children stared blankly at her hurried departure and then turned in unison to look at the colorful swimsuits hanging on the cart, taking a long time to recover.
Yun Chuman blinked and asked, "Little Juan, Little Shu, do you think this means we should go swimming and have fun?"
Yun Juan pondered seriously for a moment with a straight face and nodded earnestly, "I think Elder Sister Xiao Xi means that."
Yun Shu spread her hands, shook her head helplessly, and said with a mature air, "Elder Sister Xiao Xi is so dishonest."
She paused and added very seriously, "Just like elder brother."
Yun Juan frowned at her, his face clearly saying, "Who are you talking about?"
Yun Shu guiltily turned her head away, not daring to even glance at Yun Juan, perfectly embodying the phrase "cowardly yet playful."
Yun Chuman watched with amusement. The occasional "plastic sibling" dynamic between the two children was quite amusing.
Yun Shu couldn't stand elder brother's gaze any longer. She jumped up, stretched out her arms, ran to Yun Chuman, grabbed her arm, and rubbed her cheek against her shoulder like a pitiful kitten. "Mommy, let's change into our swimsuits now, little Shu wants to play in the water."
Yun Chuman silently thought, "She probably just wants to escape Yun Juan's gaze."
She didn't call her out on it, pinched Yun Shu's scrunched-up cheeks, stood up, and pushed the cart full of swimsuits into the house. As she ran, she happily called out "Little Juan, little Shu, hurry up!"
Yun Juan's eyes were fixed on Yun Chuman and Yun Shu, so the moment Yun Chuman ran out, he stood up and took off running too.
Suddenly, Yun Shu found herself surrounded by empty space. She stood there blankly, turning her head this way and that, wondering where mommy and elder brother were!
Hearing Yun Chuman's voice, she instinctively turned around. Seeing the two people go inside, she quickly ran after them. She widened her steps: "Mommy, elder brother! Wait for me!"
A gentle breeze rippled across the swimming pool, and the faint sounds of a family of three playfully bickering could be heard in the distance, filling the air with warmth and liveliness.
The viewers in the live stream felt a strange sense of healing seeing this scene.
—Waaah, I love this family so much! Just watching them makes all the fatigue I've accumulated disappear.
—The two kids are so much more lively than in the preview! I really want to know what happened in between.
—Seeing them reminds me of those days running in the sunset.
—Upstairs, compensate for my newly formed emotions! Anyway, Little Shu's dazed look just now was so cute.
—Am I the only one who thinks wearing swimsuits on a live stream is inappropriate? At least be mindful of the impact.
—Upstairs, are you out of your mind? Freedom of choice is important! Being pure is better than anything!
The production team had prepared a complete selection of swimsuits, in every size, style, and color imaginable.
There were no cameras in the changing room, so viewers could only hear Yun Chuman and Yun Juan & Yun Shu discussing which swimsuit to choose.
Just as the viewers were guessing, the changing room door creaked open. The viewers in the live stream held their breath, watching expectantly.
Yun Chuman emerged first, stretching out her arms towards one of the cameras in the room, smiling broadly, and said, "Ta-da! These are matching family outfits we finally found, aren't they nice looking!"
As soon as she finished speaking, Yun Juan & Yun Shu jumped out from behind her, striking the same pose.
The two children, chins slightly raised, proudly exclaimed in unison, "Look nice, right!"
The dark blue long-sleeved and long-legged one-piece swimsuits completely covered the three children, revealing only their strikingly similar faces and equally fair hands and feet.
Yun Chuman's shapely figure, though concealed by her one-piece swimsuit, didn't reveal a single curve.
However, the two children were a different story; their chubby bodies were completely exposed.
Short, chubby limbs, round little bellies, even their heads looked round and plump because of the swim caps.
They were quite good-looking, with long eyelashes and big eyes. Standing there, they resembled those round, roly-poly toys, making you want to give them a push.
The live stream chat went blank for a moment and then filled with ellipses.
—I'm not actually that surprised…
—I almost forgot Yun Chuman is a comedian…and she's still active in the parody video section.
—Who's crying their eyes out because they didn't see the pretty lady? Oh, it's me…
—Ultimately, it's the production team's fault. Couldn't they have prepared more styles of matching family outfits?
Seeing this comment, Xiao Xi clenched her fist and closed her eyes in regret. A miscalculation!
Little did she know that Yun Chuman's criteria for choosing swimsuits would be like this! Besides, they weren't even wearing truly matching family outfits; it was just that nine and a half out of ten of this type of one-piece swimsuits looked exactly the same!
Yun Chuman was completely unaware of this. Although she was eyeing on those pretty swimsuits, she wanted to try wearing matching outfits with her two children even more! She was quite envious of Yun Juan and Yun Shu wearing matching outfits every day.
The two children felt the same way.
Yun Shu's chubby little hands kept touching her swimsuit. Seeing that Yun Chuman was wearing the same one, she immediately beamed and patted her chubby little waist happily: "Mommy, this swimsuit is so pretty! I love it!"
"I like it too." Yun Juan was somewhat able to restrain himself, but his gaze kept darting between himself, Yun Chuman, and Yun Shu. He thought for a moment and suggested, "Mommy, let's take a picture!"
"Yes! It's the first time we've worn matching outfits. We should take a picture to remember it!"
Yun Chuman's eyes lit up. She excitedly led the two children to the poolside to take selfies.
She held up her old, slow-working phone, with Yun Juan and Yun Shu on either side of her and looking at the camera.
Yun Shu smiled brightly, her cheeks flushed with happiness. Her eyes curved into little crescents, and a small canine tooth peeked out from her lips, making her look adorable.
In contrast, Yun Juan's brows were furrowed, his lips pressed into a thin line, and he stared stiffly at the camera, as if something within it hid something that made him wary.
Yun Chuman couldn't help but laugh at the scene on her phone. She turned and pinched Yun Juan's tense cheek, saying, "Little Juan, why don't you smile? Weren't you the one who suggested taking a picture? Anyone who didn't know better would think you'd been kidnapped by me and Little Shu."
Yun Juan awkwardly scratched his head, a hint of unease flashing across his face.
He rubbed his face vigorously and forced a stiff smile.
Yun Chuman noticed his forced smile, but found it strange. Yun Juan was clearly a child star; why was he so nervous in front of the camera?
Yun Juan noticed her gaze and subconsciously shifted his body slightly.
Yun Shu glanced at mommy and then at elder brother. Finally, she clenched her little fist as if making a decision. She gently tugged at Yun Chuman's sleeve, and when she looked over, she secretly waved.
Yun Chuman wanted to laugh at Yun Shu's furtive behavior and bent down to find out what she wanted to say.
Yun Shu leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Mom, I'll tell you a secret. Actually, elder brother is very uncomfortable in front of the camera. It's strange, he's fine when acting, but as soon as someone takes a picture, he forgets how to smile."
Yun Juan caught a glimpse of their interaction out of the corner of his eye. Even without hearing it, he could guess what Yun Shu was talking about. He frowned and disapproved, saying, "Little Shu, don't talk nonsense!"
Yun Shu puffed out her cheeks, looking aggrieved. She wasn't talking nonsense. Elder brother had told her this himself before.
Just now, mommy had been so worried about elder brother and he wouldn't tell her himself. Afraid mommy would be sad or dislike elder brother because of this, she secretly told her.
Yun Juan knew she meant well, but what if mommy misunderstood and thought he didn't want to act, and wouldn't let him go out to earn money? How would he support the family then!
Yun Chuman was surprised. As expected, she once again doubted whether Yun Juan liked acting.
However, before she could ask, Yun Juan explained, "I just think it's strange to be motionless during photoshoots! It's not like that when I'm moving during acting."
Seeing his anxiety, Yun Chuman felt it wasn't that simple.
But she knew that sometimes one can't press children for answers. Being too forceful wouldn't reveal their hidden thoughts and might even make them think they'd done something wrong.
She decided to observe the situation further and discuss it another time.
Seeing Yun Juan still with a stiff face, she patted his little head and comforted him with a smile, "Our little Juan is so handsome! Even with a stiff expression, the photos still look cute!"
Then, turning to Yun Shu, who still looked a bit aggrieved, she added, "Our little Shu is too, but you’ll be even cuter if you can smile."
Yun Juan secretly breathed a sigh of relief and happily curled the corners of his mouth.
Yun Shu's eyes brightened. She tilted her little head up, giving Yun Chuman a big smile.
Yun Chuman pinched their cheeks: "It's time for swimming. When the sun goes down, I won't let you play in the water anymore. It'll be too cold and you'll get sick." "
Upon hearing this, the two children immediately stood up and hurriedly ran towards the poolside with their short legs.
Yun Chuman smiled as she watched the two chubby figures disappear. Just as she was about to follow, she saw Yun Juan standing firmly at the poolside, his expression extremely serious and focused.
He professionally adjusted his swimming cap, then put on his goggles. With a puff of his cheeks, he clasped his hands together and stretched them upwards, then plunged into the water, creating a small splash.
At the same time, Yun Shu also entered the water, but the little girl's entry was slightly more graceful. She sat on the edge of the pool, first putting her two short legs in, then gliding in like a little fish, turning around, resting her arms on the edge of the pool, and then slowly putting on her goggles.
This resulted in Yun Juan splashing water all over Yun Shu's face.
"Bad elder brother!" Yun Shu shook her little head, wiping the water off her face.
Yun Juan, unusually playful, stuck out his tongue.
Yun Chuman stared blankly. Her heart skipped a beat. The two children had just jumped in?
She stumbled to the edge of the pool, intending to pull them back.
But then she saw Yun Juan swimming towards the middle of the pool with a perfect breaststroke. Yun Shu was close behind.
However, the little girl was using a doggy paddle, her head constantly above the water, her legs... With her hands and feet splashing around in the water, she was quite fast and caught up with the little boy in no time.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu were playing a game of chase in the pool, laughing and joking.
Yun Chuman silently withdrew her playful hand.
So, she was the only one who couldn't swim. Yun Juan and Yun Shu had so many skills. it really made her look useless!
However, her dejected mood only lasted a second, because when Yun Juan and Yun Shu saw that she hadn't gotten into the pool for a while, stopped playing, and waved to her, beckoning, "Mommy, come play!" "
Upon hearing this, Yun Chuman immediately cheered up again, but her behavior was still relatively restrained; she didn't plunge into the water like Yun Juan.
Mainly because she couldn't swim and subconsciously felt a fear of water.
So Yun Chuman ultimately chose the same entry method as Yun Shu, cautiously gliding in, gripping the edge of the pool tightly with both hands, and instinctively holding her breath when she felt the water pressure.
Fortunately, the pool wasn't deep, only waist-deep. The moment her feet touched the ground, she relaxed completely, even feeling a sense of rebirth.
The two children splashed towards her from the other side of the pool.
Yun Shu reached her first, proudly tilting her chin up, saying, "Elder Brother's breaststroke is useless. He doesn't swim fast at all."
"But it looks good."
Yun Juan followed closely behind, splashing out of the water. Expressionless, he spoke, "Little Shu, little dog."
Yun Shu wrinkled her nose. After a long while, she managed to squeeze out, "Then...then elder brother is a little frog!"
"Croak, croak~"
Yun Juan challenged, "That's still better than a puppy. I dare to croak like a frog, but does Little Shu dare to bark like a dog?"
"I...I...Hmph!" Yun Shu puffed out her cheeks angrily. She didn't dare! Dog weren't good at all; otherwise, why would people who broke their pinkies promise become little dog? Elder Brother was bullying her!
Yun Chuman pressed her back tightly against the edge of the pool, not daring to move.
She watched their bickering with amusement. She noticed that although Yun Juan didn't say much, he often managed to leave Yun Shu speechless with anger.
Moreover, she really couldn't understand how a frog was better than a puppy. Children's thought path was so strange.
Yun Chuman smiled and pinched Yun Shu's puffed-out cheek: "If you ask me, you're both amazing because you can both swim, except me." "
Yun Juan and Yun Shu paused for a moment upon hearing this, then looked at each other warily. Almost simultaneously, they each grabbed Yun Chu Man's arms, saying in unison, "Mommy, little Juan/ little Shu will teach you!"
Yun Chuman: !!!
The two children pulled her step by step to the middle of the pool, forcing her back off the pool wall. Yun Chuman immediately felt insecure. Her body stiffened.
"Mommy, I'll teach you the breaststroke. It's not only easy to learn, but the form is also beautiful," Yun Juan said seriously.
"Mommy, don't listen to elder brother! The doggy paddle is easier to learn; you don't even need to hold your breath. It's fast!" "Yun Shu wrinkled her nose.
The two children kicked the water with their short legs and bobbed up and down on the surface. Yun Chuman watched with trepidation, afraid they would lose their footing and sink.
"I..." Yun Chuman frowned, torn between the two. She actually really wanted to learn both.
But unfortunately, she didn't even have a chance to speak. Yun Juan and Yun Shu had already grabbed her arms and started arguing.
"Learn the doggy paddle!"
"Learn the breaststroke!"
"Stop!"
Seeing the two children about to start arguing, Yun Chuman quickly raised her voice to stop them.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu stopped arguing and looked at her together.
Yun Chuman frowned: "Don't argue! How can you argue over such a small thing?"
The two children looked at each other and spoke almost simultaneously:
"Younger sister, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said the doggy paddle isn't pretty."
"Elder Brother, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said the breaststroke is too slow." "
Yun Juan and Yun Shu both paused for a moment after saying that, and then burst out laughing. They treaded water to swim towards each other and hugged tightly in the water.
"That's more like it."
Yun Chuman nodded in satisfaction and acted mysteriously, "Actually, I just learned to swim, do you want to see?"
Yun Juan and Yun Shu frowned simultaneously, still hugging each other, cheek to cheek, and said in unison, "Mommy, it's wrong to lie to a child."
Yun Chuman paused and coughed guiltily, "I'm telling the truth. You can see for yourselves."
After saying that, she took a deep breath, stood up straight, tilted her head slightly back to look at the sky, then closed her eyes and fell backward without hesitation, splashing water everywhere.
"Mom!"
Yun Juan and Yun Shu were startled to see Yun Chuman sink into the water.
However, the next second, Yun Chuman floated to the surface. She tried to relax her entire body, lying flat and letting her body rise and fall.
She had read in a book before that a person can float on water when their lungs are full of air and sink when they exhale.
But that was just the principle; in practice, it's not that strict. Natural breathing was enough.
She took a deep breath, causing her slightly sunken body to rise again, feeling relaxed. "See?" she exclaimed. "This is the new swimming method I learned! Isn't it great! Floating and swimming while enjoying the scenery, it's not tiring at all!"
"Wow!"
Yun Juan and Yun Shu exclaimed simultaneously, their eyes sparkling.
They let go of each other, stopped treading water, and leaned back together, imitating Yun Chuman's movements, floating in the water.
"So comfortable," Yun Juan said, squinting her eyes in enjoyment.
"Easier than doggy paddling!" Yun Shu said with a grin, splashing the water around her with her chubby little hands.
One big and two small floated side by side on the surface, like salted fish drifting with the current.
But the pool water was completely still and the three "salted fish" barely moved an inch.
The viewers who had just entered the live stream were startled, thinking some major crime had occurred.
—What's going on? I came in and saw my two little ones floating on the water.
—Hahaha, I'm dying of laughter! Yun Chuman, you're something else!
—Oh no, will my two little ones become comedic figures too?
—But seriously, it looks so comfortable! I want to try it too.
—Just came from Mo Yingdi's side, and here they're all lounging around like salted fish and all inexplicably in sync. I’m dying of laughter! No wonder they're this episode's partners.
—Suddenly I'm really looking forward to Mo Yingdi and Yun Chuman meeting! A paradise for those who appreciate good looks! And the two of them definitely have a lot to talk about.
—Um…while I really like a family of three, please don't try to ride on their popularity like this.
—Yun Chuman's fans, have you forgotten that your elder sister is a single mother? What have something to talk about…
—Upstair, are you guys fans of Mo Yingdi? You've ruined the atmosphere.
—Seriously, fans, can you stop being so self-righteous? Even if your actor wants to be Little Juan and Little Shu's dad, we don't agree!
—So what if she's a single mother! Single mothers are even more admirable! That's not a reason for you to attack her.
This was the first conflict in Yun Chuman's livestream and it even trended on social media, but it didn't last long.
Most of Mo Rongwen's fans were rational. These extreme fans were a minority. They had no advantage in arguments and quickly lost. In the end, a small number of Yun Chuman's fans and Yun Juan and Yun Shu's "mom fans" won a decisive victory.
"Why is it over already? Mo Yingdi's fans are so weak."
The director of "Every Family Has Its Own Affairs," Li Rufei sighed slightly as he watched the live stream comments subside.
He didn't care whether trending on social media was good or bad; he was happy as long as it attracted attention.
He had confidently moved the live stream ahead of schedule because the pilot episode had received a good response.
But who would have thought that the other two groups of guests wouldn't even have as much drama as Yun Chuman and Mo Yingdi's group, who hadn't even met yet!
The sweet little flower had chosen Mo Yingdi in the previous episode, thinking that since they both owned pets, they would definitely have common ground. However, Mo Yingdi was afraid of snakes and insects and had already run away.
She had no choice but to participate in the lottery. The production team packed her and her pets up and sent them to the director's house. Who knew that once she arrived, she would be forced to participate in a cheesy pickup line competition with the director's "plastic siblings"?
Sweet little flower was in agony. In the end, she took her little white snake out of its cage and held it in her hands, which finally made the two "plastic siblings" retreat.
The live stream chat for this group was basically flooded with Sweet Flower's fans, who were simultaneously cursing the director's two sons for their ulterior motives and expressing sympathy for their idol.
Casual viewers who had initially wanted to watch the drama quickly left, causing the live stream's viewership to plummet.
The situation was similar for another group.
The childless couple had initially chosen Sweet Flower, thinking she was unique and they could get along, but unfortunately, they ended up being sent to Yun Xinxin's house.
The other members of the richest family, apart from appearing briefly during breakfast in the preview, were nowhere to be seen, so only Yun Xinxin received them.
Yun Xinxin enthusiastically showed them around the villa, explaining the origins of each antique in detail.
The DINK couple, forcing themselves to stay awake, looked like sleepy students trying to concentrate in class. Their eyes were bloodshot.
The viewers in the live stream were practically dozing off. Occasionally, someone would find Yun Xinxin strange, only to be met with a barrage of insults from her fans.
The dull atmosphere and tendency to erupt into arguments resulted in the lowest viewership for this group.
Li Rufei sighed again, clasping his hands together in a silent prayer: "I hope that when Yun Chuman and Mo Rongwen meet tomorrow, they can bring some excitement to the show. Please, please!"
The assistant didn't have time to complain about his director.
He fervently joined in the prayer. He was willing to trade the Director Li’s last ten strands for a single trending topic for the show—please, please, don't let it be canceled! He didn't want to lose his job!
The highly anticipated Yun Chuman was taking her two children for a bath.
After swimming—or rather, after soaking in the water—the family of three enjoyed a hot pot meal in the gazebo of the small garden, admiring the scenery. The meal left everyone—one adult and two children—completely stuffed.
After playing and eating their fill, it was time for the two children to sleep. They took a bath and went to their bedroom.
The production crew had prepared a huge bed for them. Yun Juan and Yun Shu loved it at first sight, happily rolling around on it in their dinosaur pajamas.
"It's so soft!" Yun Shu exclaimed, burying her face in the pillow.
"So many people could lie down on this," Yun Juan said, looking around, trying to figure out how many people could fit.
Yun Chuman entered the room and saw this scene. She smiled and said, "You like it? If you do, we'll buy one when we get back."
The two children's eyes lit up, but they quickly shook their heads. Their house was too small and couldn't fit such a big bed.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu patted the bed with their chubby little hands, saying, "Mommy, come to sleep!"
Yun Chuman turned off the light and pounced on the two children, tickling them.
Yun Juan and Yun Shu giggled, trying to curl up into a ball, but Yun Chuman stopped them.
One big and two small, played around for a while before stopping. They were both covered in a thin layer of sweat and felt warm like little heaters.
Yun Chuman laid in the middle, with Yun Juan and Yun Shu close on either side of her. She stretched out her arms and hugged them both, happily thinking that she had finally achieved her goal of having them both on her arms!
The bed was so big, yet the three of them were squeezed together, taking up only a small portion of the middle space.
A small shadow could vaguely be made out in the live stream, and someone couldn't help but sigh.
—It's time to envy Yun Chuman again.
—I also want a Yun Juan and Yun Shu-branded pillow, sob sob.
—No wonder the two little ones don't want a big bed; it's completely useless.
The next day, Yun Chuman woke up early as usual and tiptoed out of the bedroom.
After she finished a set of radio calisthenics on the first floor, the production team told her that Mo Yingdi had already set off and would arrive in the afternoon.
Yun Chuman searched for the location of the gallery hosting the competition on her phone and found it wasn't far. She decided to take Yun Juan and Yun Shu there that morning to register on-site and try some of the city's local delicacies.
Author's Note:
【Yun Family Diary】
Yun Juan: Although Mom is good at floating, next time I'll teach her the breaststroke!
Yun Shu: Although Mom is good at floating, next time I'll teach her the doggy paddle!
He clicked his tongue a few times before heading straight upstairs to take a shower, ignoring his brother.
Before going to sleep, Tang Yao received a goodnight message from Lu Bei. She was slightly taken aback and replied with a goodnight.
At this moment, she was sitting on the bed with her hair down. She felt that Lu Bei's attitude had been a bit off lately.
Tang Yao shook her head, shaking off those unrealistic thoughts, and went to sleep.
She was indeed tired and slept soundly without any dreams.
The next day, Huang Hui's assistant picked her up again.
Upon arriving at the company, Tang Yao noticed some people giving her strange gazes.
They seemed to be pointing and whispering about her.
She glanced at her assistant, who was frowning slightly, clearly unaware of what was going on.
After taking a private elevator, the assistant finally spoke, "I'm sorry, this is my negligence. I will find out what happened as soon as possible."
"It's alright, don't blame yourself. I know a little bit, after all, I was parachuted in. But once the work is finished, they'll naturally shut up."
Tang Yao was confident of that.
Back in the studio, Tang Yao began finishing up the work.
Although it was finishing up, it was still very meticulous.
This busy work lasted a whole day and an all-nighter.
The next day, Huang Hui pushed open the door and the brand-new clothes that appeared before her almost dazzled her.
She was captivated. Beautiful, simply exquisitely beautiful.
She was glad she had trusted Tang Yao and Tang Yao had indeed given her an answer that greatly satisfied her.
This was a talent that none of the designers in her company possessed. For a moment, Huang Hui genuinely wanted to keep her.
However, she quickly suppressed that thought.
Tang Yao had pulled an all-nighter. She explained the precautions to Huang Hui and then went to catch up on sleep on the small bed in the studio.
When she woke up, it was already noon.
The fashion show was in the evening. The office was quiet and everyone was clearly busy.
Just as Tang Yao was about to get up, she heard the studio door being pushed open.
Her position was blocked by a cabinet, so she couldn't see through the door.
She initially thought it was Huang Hui returning, but the deliberately soft footsteps made Tang Yao stop.
Tang Yao quietly took out her phone, silenced it, turned on the camera, and extended it from behind the desk.
Tang Yao was surprised to see a complete stranger, dressed in a cleaner's uniform.
The man held a utility knife. After glancing around to make sure no one was watching, he prepared to cut the newly altered clothes.
Just as Tang Yao was about to stop him, the door to the break room opened.
The man quickly concealed the utility knife behind his back.
Huang Hui and her assistant walked in with grim faces, followed by two bodyguards.
"I didn't expect it to be you! Wasn't it President Huang who helped your wife when she was about to die? You're heartless!" the assistant said.
"No… I just came to clean," the cleaner still tried to deny it.
"Clean? I remember saying no one was allowed in this room."
"I… I don't know. I really wanted to clean," Seeing there were no security cameras in the room, the cleaner insisted.
Tang Yao finally emerged from behind the cover: "I've recorded everything."
The cleaning worker, not expecting anyone else, turned ashen-faced.
"They said they'd give me a million. I've never seen so much money in my life," the cleaning worker said dejectedly as he was led away by bodyguards and handed over to the police.
"He was the one who ruined this dress. Seeing that he had a heavy family burden and seemed honest, I didn't pursue the matter," Huang Hui shook her head.
In the end, greed triumphed over humanity.
"This is the same person who spread rumors about Miss Tang at the company," the assistant said, clearly having just discovered it herself.
"Do you know who sent him?" Tang Yao asked.
Huang Hui's eyes sharpened instantly: "Yes, it's just those few people."
Seeing Huang Hui's confident demeanor, Tang Yao didn't ask any more questions. After handing over the video she had recorded, she focused on eating the lunch the assistant had brought.
It was a takeout from a five-star hotel. The taste and presentation were impeccable.
That evening, Tang Yao changed into the dress Huang Hui had prepared for her and a professional makeup team applied makeup to her face.
Actually, she didn't really want to go. She'd rather spend that time enjoying the breeze at the hotel.
However, Huang Hui said that Tang Yao was a major contributor and wanted to witness this important show with her.
Tang Yao's hair was styled in a girlish bun, while she wore a pale yellow Chinese-style dress. Her skin was as white as snow, and her features were exquisite.
While in the car, Tang Yao received a message from Lu Bei asking where she was.
After answering truthfully, Tang Yao put her phone aside and spoke to Huang Hui beside her.
Huang Hui wore a dark green cheongsam with a matching jade necklace, making her look exceptionally elegant.
The saying "time cannot defeat beauty" certainly held true.
Soon, they arrived at the VIP passage.
Unlike celebrities, they didn't need to walk the red carpet or be photographed by the media, so the VIP passage was quiet.
As soon as Tang Yao got out of the car, she heard a familiar voice.
"What a coincidence." Lu Bei got out of the car. He was wearing a gray suit. Broad-shouldered and long-legged and with a jade-like figure, he was somewhat different from usual.
Upon seeing Tang Yao, Lu Bei's eyes noticeably darkened. He politely greeted Huang Hui.
Huang Hui noticed his gaze lingering on Tang Yao, smiled knowingly, and instantly understood everything.
"When did Xiao Bei become interested in these fashion shows? The organizers invited you before, but you said you didn't want to come because the music was too loud," Huang Hui teased.
Lu Bei replied without changing his expression, "I heard Aunt Huang will have a perfect closing performance this time, so I came to see it."
Huang Hui saw through his lie but didn't say anything, just smiled faintly.
Tang Yao saw Lu Bei looking over and nodded at him.
Then the group entered the elevator together and headed towards the fashion show venue.
"Xiao Bei didn’t bring a female companion this time?" Huang Hui asked deliberately. She and her husband had practically watched Lu Bei and Lu Nan grow up. Lu Bei had always been well-behaved, sensible, and of good character, so she wanted to lend a hand. "I might have some social engagements later, so I'll need Xiao Bei to look after Tang Yao for me. I'll treat you to dinner afterward."
Huang Hui had previously offered to bring Tang Yao along, but Tang Yao had refused. She didn't plan to continue in this field as she had already reached her ceiling. If Huang Hui hadn't mentioned that this trip was to promote their country’s embroidery culture to the world, she wouldn't have wanted to leave the guesthouse.
Before Tang Yao could say anything, Lu Bei had already agreed.
"Okay, Aunt Huang, I'll definitely take good care of Tang Yao. You can go ahead with your work without worry," Lu Bei replied.
Tang Yao opened her mouth, but ultimately said nothing.
Tang Yao and Huang Hui went backstage first. After reviewing the models' instructions, they went to the VIP section before the show started. Tang Yao spotted a few celebrities in the back seats. Lu Bei, having received his invitation through Lu Nan, wasn't among them.
However, the media's cameras focused primarily on Lu Bei. He hadn't appeared in public for a long time before the variety show started, making this an invaluable opportunity.
Models of various nationalities and skin colors swayed gracefully on the runway, showcasing top designs from their respective countries.
As each model moved, a host's voice provided commentary backstage.
Soon, it was Huang Hui's turn to appear.
Huang Hui had already gone backstage. Tang Yao sat in her seat, admiring the beautifully dressed model up close. Her smile was almost impossible to hide.
Lu Bei leaned back in his chair, not watching the models on stage, but instead gazing down at the person beside him. His gaze revealed a tenderness he himself didn't realize.
He made no attempt to hide it and the media's cameras captured it perfectly.
Just then, Tang Yao's brow furrowed slightly.
Lu Bei, who had been watching her closely, naturally noticed it as well. "What's wrong?" Lu Bei asked.
"This dress looks a lot like the one that was destroyed in the studio before."
Lu Bei turned his gaze to the stage upon hearing this.
The model slowly walking towards them was indeed wearing a dress that looked almost identical to the finale dress from Huang Hui's studio that had been destroyed. If it hadn't been altered, it would be hard to say.
"This is the Chen Family's company. They always like to do these underhanded things," Lu Bei said, his tone slightly cold.
When the finale dress appeared, a murmur of doubt arose from the crowd. This dress did indeed bear a resemblance to the dress the Chen family had displayed earlier, as it was based on that dress and had been modified.
However, the quality of this dress was far superior to the previous one.
As the model slowly walked out, the embroidery on the dress was revealed to everyone. It was covered in auspicious clouds.
The model seemed to emerge from the clouds, breathtakingly beautiful.
Just as everyone was marveling at the spectacle, the model flipped her wrist, revealing a magnificent landscape painting on the other side!
Wandering clouds and wild cranes, verdant mountains and clear waters.
There were many uncontrollable gasps of surprise as people were unable to contain their astonishment at seeing double-sided embroidery here.
The clicks of cameras filled the air.
This scene was etched into the memories of people from different countries, lingering long afterward, truly showcasing the country's traditional culture to the world.
The dress from the Chen Family earlier paled in comparison to this one.
Originally, the designer and model were supposed to walk the finale together, but Tang Yao didn't want to steal the spotlight, so Huang Hui walked it for her.
At the end, she picked up the microphone. Her gaze fell on the audience: "Today, I want to thank someone. If it weren't for her, there wouldn't be this grand finale. However, she's a very low-key person and doesn't like being in front of the camera, but I still want to say thank you."
"You're very capable," Lu Bei's voice echoed in Tang Yao's ears.
A faint smile played on her lips, neither arrogant nor overly humble, as if the whole thing had happened naturally.
This Tang Yao made Lu Bei unable to look away. He felt that perhaps he needed to work harder to be worthy of her.
Luo Zhengzheng and her group visited all the attractions in Dali, then went to Lijiang, where they spent about a week and bought many local specialties before heading home.
Upon arriving home, they learned that Gu Shi had gone abroad on a business trip.
That evening, they took the gifts they bought for the family to the in-laws' place and distributed them to them.
Looking at the pile of things, Liu Hanyue asked, "What did you buy?"
Luo Zhengzheng smiled and explained, "Some local specialties, and some trinkets. They're not valuable, but they're unique."
Liu Hanyue took a silk scarf and wrapped it around her neck. "This scarf is quite pretty. Is the embroidery on it handmade?"
This kind of craftsmanship was very rare nowadays.
Luo Zhengzheng nodded. "I searched many places before finding it. I brought one for each of you."
Although Wang Yaning didn't particularly like things without brands or labels, she accepted the scarf because it was Luo Zhengzheng's thoughtfulness.
Yu Shuang noticed a set of ethnic minority clothing nearby. "What's this?"
Luo Zhengzheng said, "That's for Chenghui. She can wear it if she likes." She handed the clothing to her.
Yu Shuang's eyes widened in surprise and she happily took it. "You even brought a gift for Chenghui?" The clothing was so beautiful that she couldn't resist asking the maid to take Chenghui to change.
Wang Yaning looked over and Luo Zhengzheng said, "I also brought a gift for Chengrui, a bamboo boat."
Wang Yaning smiled, "Chengrui loves boats."
Gu Chengrui did indeed like the boat; he hugged it and went to play with Chengjia.
Chenghui happily changed her clothes and came out, looking at her mommy, "Mommy, like."
Yu Shuang touched the hair accessory in her hair and smiled, "Auntie bought this; say thank you to Auntie."
Chenghui said shyly, "Thank you, Auntie."
Luo Zhengzheng, who had no daughter, adored delicate little girls. Chenghui, well-mannered and sensible, wasn't spoiled, thanks to her mother's upbringing. She smiled and said, "You're welcome."
Liu Hanyue, wearing a silk scarf, took a photo and posted it on her social media account with the caption: "A gift Fourth sister-in-law brought back from her trip—a hand-embroidered silk scarf. The embroidery is exquisite; I love it very much."
Many people saw the photo and commented that she had a wonderful sister-in-law, and they wished they had one too.
Liu Hanyue was pleased. With this photo, who could say they, as sisters-in-law, didn't get along?
Wang Yaning naturally saw Liu Hanyue's photo. She hadn't expected Liu Hanyue to genuinely like the scarf. Given Liu Hanyue's personality, even if she wanted to show harmony between them, she wouldn't casually post a photo on social media if she didn't truly like the scarf.
Ye Li carefully examined the embroidery of her own silk scarf, exclaiming, "This embroidery is practically a work of art! It's perfect!"
Wang Yaning was surprised that mother-in-law also praised the scarf so highly and felt a little self conscious. Was her taste really that bad?
Luo Zhengzheng was unaware of Wang Yaning's thoughts, and even if she did, it wouldn't matter. Giving gifts was just a matter of courtesy; whether she liked it or not, the gift was given.
As for her father-in-law and Chengjia's uncles, the gifts were more casual—each were given a box of tea.
Having not seen their grandson for almost half a month, Gu Boyuan and Ye Li naturally missed him, and couldn't resist but hold him in their arms during meals.
That night, lying in bed, Luo Zhengzheng received a call from Gu Shi. His slightly deep voice came from the other end of the line: "You're back? Why didn't you tell me?"
Luo Zhengzheng felt a little embarrassed. Could she say she forgot to tell him?
Of course not.
So she said, "I wanted to surprise you, but I didn't expect you to be away on a business trip. Hey, why didn't you tell me you were going?"
Not only did she not admit she'd forgotten him, she also turned the tables.
Gu Shi was amused and annoyed. Did she really think he was unaware of her little scheme? He didn't argue with her and said, "I'll be back the day after tomorrow. What do you want? Make a list and I'll bring it back for you."
Luo Zhengzheng's eyes lit up. A woman's wardrobe was never short of something, but she said, "You've already worked so hard, you don't need to bring me anything back. Just your return is enough."
Holding his phone, Gu Shi stood by the window, looking outside. Hearing her words, he smiled, "Such a sweet talker?"
Luo Zhengzheng said, "It's all from the heart."
Gu Shi: "Really?"
Luo Zhengzheng: "Of course."
Gu Shi suddenly asked: "You brought gifts for Mom and sister-in-laws, did you bring one for me?"
Luo Zhengzheng thought to herself, this man is so petty. Luckily, she saw that tie and thought it suited him, so she bought it: "Of course I'll bring you a gift, and it's different from everyone else's."
Gu Shi smiled faintly: "Looking forward to it."
After hanging up, Luo Zhengzheng opened her suitcase, took out the tie, and hung it in his closet so he could see it as soon as he got back, lest he think she wasn't sincere.
The next day, after breakfast, Luo Can went out to look for work.
Luo Zhengzheng asked him: "What kind of job are you planning to look for? Don't get scammed." Her younger brother was still young at this time, with almost no social experience and lacking the shrewdness of later generations. She was somewhat worried about him.
Luo Can waved his hand: "Elder Sister, don't worry, I'll call you if anything happens." Then he ran out.
Luo Zhengzheng caught up with him: "Have the driver take you out; there are no bus stops nearby."
Luo Can: ......
Luo Can disagreed with having the driver take him, waving to Elder Sister, "I'll run out."
A classmate of Luo Can came to the capital and was handing out flyers. He had arranged to meet his classmate last night, planning to go with him to hand out flyers for a few days.
Handling flyers didn't require any skill; one just ran to where there were lots of people. In the sweltering summer heat, Luo Can and his classmate handed out flyers on the bustling streets and were sweating profusely.
His classmate's name was Wang Zehao. Both were handsome; Luo Can's handsomeness was the sunny type, while Wang Zehao's was the reserved type. Luo Can frowned, glancing at the sun overhead, then at the flyer in his hand. He pursed his lips and asked Wang Zehao, "Let's buy some water, our throats are parched."
Wang Zehao nodded. The two found a convenience store, spent three yuan on two bottles of mineral water, each taking a bottle and gulping them down.
After finishing his water, Wang Zehao looked at the white-collar and gold-collar workers in smart uniforms hurrying to and fro in the office building across the street. A profound realization suddenly struck him. He pointed across the street and said, "I want to be like that."
Luo Can looked in the direction he was pointing. He had been to the Ye Group headquarters and spent a day there and his feelings were even more profound than Wang Zehao's. He said, "As a country boy, who wouldn't want to be like that?"
Wang Zehao's grades weren't as good as Luo Can's. He felt he hadn't done very well in the college entrance exam. He said, "I didn't do very well on the exam. I don't know what university I can get into."
Luo Can patted him on the shoulder: "The exam results will be out in a few days. Don't think too much."
Wang Zehao wasn't in a good mood.
Luo Can comforted him: "At worst, you can retake the exam next year."
Wang Zehao shook his head. His family's situation didn't allow him to retake it.
Seeing that he didn't elaborate, Luo Can wisely didn't press him.
At noon, the two each ate a boxed lunch. Afterwards, they continued handing out flyers. As night fell, Luo Can smelled a delicious aroma. He couldn't resist looking over and saw a hot pot restaurant. He tugged at Wang Zehao's arm: "Have you ever eaten hot pot?"
Wang Zehao shook his head: "There are hot pot restaurants in our county, but I've never been."
Luo Can said, "Me neither." He couldn't help but glance at the hot pot restaurant again, swallowing hard. He earned eighty yuan a day handing out flyers; he wondered how much a hot pot meal would cost.
Wang Zehao pulled him away, "Don't look anymore. We worked hard all day to earn this money; let's save it."
Did Wang Zehao not want to eat hot pot? It was just that the money he earned had more important uses.
That evening, Luo Can returned to Elder Sister's house exhausted. He plopped down on the sofa. After standing and running around all day, he didn't want to move at all.
Little Chengjia was already asleep. Luo Zhengzheng washed up and came downstairs. Seeing his disheveled appearance, she said, "I asked Nanny Wang to make you some chicken soup. It's so late, you must be hungry, right?"
Luo Can looked at Elder Sister and said weakly, "Not only hungry, but also thirsty."
He had never known Wang Zehao was so frugal, even saving water. He only drank one bottle of water the whole day. It just so happened that he wouldn't buy any, nor would he let him buy any.
Luo Zhengzheng poured him a glass of water, which he gulped down in a few mouthfuls. Luo Zhengzheng took the cup and asked him, "Want some more?"
Luo Can shook his head. He and Elder Sister always talked about everything: "When I was handing out flyers today, I came across a hot pot restaurant. The aroma was indescribable! Just thinking about it makes my mouth water."
Luo Zhengzheng glanced at him: "Want some hot pot?"
Luo Can chuckled, not shy at all in front of Elder Sister: "Yes."
Luo Zhengzheng chuckled: "It's just hot pot, right? We'll go tomorrow."
She didn't plan to interfere with younger brother's work handing out flyers. But working a summer job to improve himself and wanting hot pot didn't conflict, so she naturally granted his request. Although she didn't know what kind of improvement handing out flyers could provide.
Luo Can then asked, "Elder Sis, can another person join?"
Luo Zhengzheng smiled and said, "Sure."
The next day, around noon, Luo Zhengzheng had the driver take her to the hot pot restaurant Luo Can had mentioned. Considering the strong smell, she didn't bring little Chengjia.
Upon arriving at the hot pot restaurant, she called Luo Can to tell him she was waiting for him in a private room.
After hanging up, Luo Can pulled Wang Zehao towards the restaurant. Wang Zehao looked reluctant: "Your elder sister invited you to a meal, is it appropriate for me to come along?"
His family was poor and they didn't have internet. There was only a secondhand cell phone given to him by his elder maternal cousin. Luo Can never talked about his family at school, so he didn't know who Luo Can's elder sister was, only assuming she worked in the capital. He felt embarrassed to be treated to a meal for no reason.
Luo Can said, "It's okay, my elder sister said to call you. Let's go, don't be shy."
Only then did Wang Zehao obediently follow behind him.
The two found the private room Luo Zhengzheng had told them about. Pushing open the door, they found Luo Zhengzheng already sitting there, cooking vegetables in a pot. She glanced up at them when she saw them and continued cooking: "I've ordered some dishes first. Order whatever you like."
Wang Zehao was stunned. He hadn't expected Luo Can’s elder sister to be so beautiful, and so dazzling.
Luo Can tugged at the dazed Wang Zehao. "What are you standing there for? Sit down and start eating."
The hot pot restaurant had air conditioning, which helped clear his head somewhat from the sweltering heat outside.
Luo Zhengzheng smiled at the two of them, "You've already taken the college entrance exam, you can have some beer, want a couple?"
Wang Zehao's face flushed slightly and he hurriedly said, "No, no need."
However, Luo Can said, "Let's have some, it's not satisfying to eat hot pot without beer."
Wang Zehao looked at him, "Haven't you ever had hot pot before?"
Luo Can chuckled, "I saw it online."
Wang Zehao glanced at Luo Zhengzheng and said, "Then... let's have some."
Finally eating the hot pot they'd been craving, Luo Can and Wang Zehao were both very excited.
Luo Zhengzheng sat beside them, cooking beef, watching them eat and drink beer. Halfway through, her phone rang. She picked it up and saw it was Gu Shi calling. She answered and said hello.
On the phone, Gu Shi asked, "Where are you?"
Luo Zhengzheng put the cooked beef into her bowl, "Eating out."
Wang Zehao glanced at Luo Zhengzheng and continued eating. Gu Shi asked again, "Where are you eating?"
Luo Zhengzheng said, "The hot pot restaurant next to Financial Street."
Gu Shi's indifferent voice came, "I haven't eaten."
Luo Zhengzheng abruptly asked, "Where are you?"
Gu Shi loosened his tie, "At home. It seems you don't remember me coming home today."
"No, I thought you'll come back this afternoon." Luo Zhengzheng wasn't suffering from amnesia; she tentatively asked, "How about you come over for hot pot too?"
Gu Shi carefully assessed the truthfulness of her words and said, "I don't want hot pot."
Luo Zhengzheng asked him, "Then what do you want to eat?"
Gu Shi said, "Want to eat your cooking. Is that alright?"
Luo Zhengzheng didn't want to cook, and besides, she hadn't had hot pot in a long time. Right now, all she wanted was hot pot. She said, "Why don't you ask Nanny Wang to make you something to eat? I'll cook tonight."
Gu Shi hadn't seen Luo Zhengzheng for half a month and just wanted to see her. He hadn't expected her to be such a carefree woman. He said slowly, "I bought you a lot of things—clothes, shoes, jewelry… Since you don't like them, I won't bring them next time."
A wise person knows when to yield. Luo Zhengzheng immediately said, "Actually, I'm already about 70-80% full, that's about enough. Eating too much will make me fat. I'll come back and cook for you right away."
After hanging up the phone, Luo Zhengzheng handed Luo Can a card, telling him to swipe it after the meal, and instructed, "Order whatever you want." Then she went out, got into her car, and drove away.
Luo Can, holding the card, said to Wang Zehao, "My elder brother-in-law is back from a business trip abroad. Never mind her, we'll eat."
Wang Zehao paused the chopsticks in his hand. "Your elder sister is married?"
Yun Chuman thought to herself, what a coincidence! If the filming location for the next episode of the variety show was in City Z, she could find a way to bring her entry directly there and register on-site.
However, if she remembered correctly, according to the information she received, the original owner of this body hadn't left the city for the next episode of the variety show.
After watching the preview, the original owner immediately chose Yun Xinxin, but Yun Xinxin didn't choose her. So, she had to draw lots to team up with other guests and ended up with a childless couple.
During filming, the original owner discovered Yun Xinxin was nearby. To get closer, she simply abandoned her child with the childless couple.
However, the couple had no idea how to care for children or interact with them. Not only was the live stream silent and boring, the child was also nearly injured.
Viewers were extremely dissatisfied, feeling the original owner was irresponsible and the childless couple lacked compassion. They were collectively criticized and trended on social media.
Now, the production team informed her that she needed to leave the city and go to Z city.
Although the information she received didn't mention which guest had previously filmed in Z city, she was certain that her choice had changed the original storyline!
Yun Chuman breathed a sigh of relief. A change was a good thing; it proved she was no longer controlled by the plot and meant her life with her two children would definitely get better.
At this time, Yun Juan and Yun Shu woke up and came out of the bedroom.
While she was deep in thought, the two children had already gotten up.
Yun Juan, rubbing his eyes and not fully awake, said to Yun Chuman, "Mom, are you going to cook?
Younger Sister and I will help you."
Behind him, Yun Shu, still with her eyes closed, gave a heavy "Mmm," saying, "Mom, don't cook alone."
Yun Chuman: ...
She wasn't going to blow up the kitchen! Why were these two children so wary of her cooking alone?!
But she couldn't blame them. Yun Chuman didn't believe she could cook anything decent on her own.
Ever since she'd tasted the scrambled eggs with tomatoes that Yun Juan and Yun Shu had made together, she had accepted the fact that the two children were more talented at cooking than she was.
She had already decided that from now on, she would involve Yun Juan and Yun Shu in cooking, not for any other reason than to learn from them up close!
That's right! She was going to learn from the two children! Then hone her culinary skills and secretly amaze everyone!
Yun Chuman, Yun Juan, and Yun Shu did some morning exercises before going into the kitchen to make breakfast.
Yun Chuman carefully washed the fresh spinach with clean water.
Wearing a new hippo apron and holding a newly bought children's knife, Yun Juan deftly chopped the romaine lettuce into sections and minced the garlic.
Yun Shu, standing on a small stool and wearing a new yellow duck apron, prepared the dressing for the cold spinach salad.
Finally, the three of them worked together to successfully make a cold spinach salad, a stir-fried romaine lettuce dish, and a pot of slightly bubbling white rice porridge.
However, although it was called a collaboration, Yun Chuman was only responsible for mechanically flipping the spatula according to instructions. The seasoning was left to Yun Juan and Yun Shu.
After enjoying a refreshing breakfast, Yun Chuman told the two children that they had to leave early.
"Mommy, are we going by plane?" Yun Shu asked expectantly and excitedly. Sitting in her chair, her two short legs swung back and forth.
"Yes..."
Yun Chuman hesitated for a moment after speaking. Then it came to her, "Oh yeah! We're going to take a plane!"
Flying into the sky was humanity's most romantic dream, but unfortunately, she was too weak in her past life to experience it. Now, thinking about how she was about to take to the skies, she couldn't help but feel excited.
Yun Shu held her hand and asked curiously, "Mommy, is flying scary? Can we touch the clouds?"
This was her first time flying. Before, mommy and elder brother never took her with them when they went to work, always leaving an unfamiliar aunt to take care of her.
Yun Chuman smiled, "Of course it's not scary! Are you excited, littleShu? Are you happy?"
Yun Shu nodded vigorously.
One big and one small held hands, facing each other and grinning foolishly.
Sitting at the side, Yun Juan frowned and asked seriously, "Mommy, will the crew members take us on the plane?"
Yun Chuman paused for a moment, "Probably not."
During the live broadcast, the crew automatically becomes invisible.
Yun Juan's expression instantly became very serious: "This is younger sister's first time flying. Why don't we teach her what to do once she's inside the airport?"
Upon hearing this, Yun Chuman calmed down at once, unable to help but admire Yun Juan's maturity and composure at times.
She had indeed heard before that the boarding process was complicated. Thankfully Yun Juan had mentioned it; otherwise, she would have made a fool of herself if she didn't know how to board the plane.
Yun Chuman coughed lightly twice and said seriously, "That's right, we should learn beforehand; knowing what to do will save time."
After searching for the boarding process online, she drew it out bit by bit in her notebook and diligently studied it with the two children.
It looked complicated, but it was actually only three steps: checking in and dropping off luggage, then going through security, and finally boarding.
Yun Chuman stroked her chin. Wasn't it simple!
She tossed the notebook aside, confident that she would perform like an experienced person at the airport two days later!
During the two days of waiting for departure, besides learning to cook with Yun Juan and Yun Shu, Yun Chuman would also take them for walks downstairs every day.
This led to her getting along better and better with the residents of the community, and Yun Shu and Yang Qingshu became increasingly close. On the day she left, she even went next door to knock on his door to say goodbye.
Wearing a white cotton short-sleeved shirt, Yang Qingshu came out of the house and asked in confusion, "Little Shu, why are you looking for me so early?"
"Qingqing, I've come to say goodbye," Yun Shu said with a worried look.
Yang Qingshu's face paled. His first thought was, was his newly acquainted friend leaving?
"Are you... moving?"
Yun Shu blinked in confusion. "Moving? Why moving?"
"What's that?" Yang Qingshu pointed to Yun Juan, who was wearing a baseball cap askew and had a huge suitcase next to him.
"That's what I came to tell you. We're going to City Z to film a variety show called 'Every Family Has Its Own Affairs.' We won't be back for a week."
Yun Shu sighed and raised her fist, as big as a red bean bun. "If Da Pang bullies you during this time, remember it. I'll settle the score with him when I get back!"
Yang Qingshu breathed a sigh of relief and obediently nodded. "Okay."
"Qingqing, I'll miss you during this time." Yun Shu's eyebrows drooped, her lips trembled, and tears welled up.
Yang Qingshu felt a pang of sadness seeing this. He was handsome, but thinner than his peers, and usually expressionless. Now, with his brows furrowed slightly, he looked incredibly pitiful.
Yun Shu quickly wiped away her non-existent tears with her chubby little hands, comforting him, "Qingqing, don't be sad, I'll bring you a present."
Standing nearby, Yun Juan watched the two about to burst into tears and let out a heavy snort, which was caught by Yun Chuman, who had just finished checking the water and electricity and came out of the house.
She closed the door, followed Yun Juan's gaze to Yun Shu, squatted down, pinched his puffed-up cheeks, and said with suppressed laughter, "What's wrong with little Juan? Your mouth is so sullen, are you jealous?"
"I'm not."
Yun Juan awkwardly pursed his lips into a straight line. Why would he be jealous? Little Shu would always be his little sister.
He just couldn't stand that brat Yang Qingshu, always acting like a big bad wolf in front of Little Shu!
Yun Chuman laughed. The little tsundere was so stubborn, he was practically turning into a lemon spirit.
But Yun Shu really was a little angel; even a child like Yang Qingshu was infected by her warmth.
These past few days, she'd heard a lot from Aunt Sun and the others about Yang Qingshu's family. The little boy had suffered a lot at such a young age, gradually becoming introverted and unapproachable. Who would have thought Yun Shu would become his friend so quickly?
Yun Chuman thought Yun Shu was definitely a hidden social butterfly; Yun Juan would probably be green with envy from now on.
Seeing that it was almost time, she smiled and called out, "Little Shu, we're leaving."
Then she said to Yang Qingshu, "Qingqing, take good care of yourself. See you again in a week."
Yang Qingshu always became awkward and shy when he saw her. He nodded and whispered, "Goodbye. I hope Auntie and Yun Juan and Yun Shu have a pleasant trip."
Yun Chuman said thank you, thinking to herself that Yang Qingshu was indeed a teacher's pet. Look at the words he said.
Her own two children were about the same age as him. Should she also arrange their academic studies?
Thinking it over, she led Yun Juan and Yun Shu straight to the airport. Just as they got out of the taxi, they spotted the crew of the TV program "Every Family Has Its Own Affairs" at the airport entrance; their long lenses and microphones made them stand out in the crowd.
The accompanying director, Xiao Xi, stood at the front of the group, dressed in a black tracksuit, her ponytail tied high, looking very capable.
Upon seeing Yun Chuman's family, she waved vigorously: "Over here!"
Yun Juan was happy to see familiar faces, but because of his inhibitions, he smiled and waved restrainedly.
Yun Shu was much more lively than before, jumping and waving her hands vigorously. Her eyes curved and she revealed her cute little tiger teeth.
Yun Chuman led them over, greeting the production crew with a smile. Noticing the camera indicator light flashing, she exclaimed in surprise, "Started filming already?"
Xiao Xi patted the two children's heads and chuckled, "Yes, the pilot episode was so good! The audience is eager to see the first live broadcast, and Director Li likes to fulfill their wishes, so we're starting filming with you two."
"Given the special circumstances, our production team can answer questions for the guests if necessary," she pointed to the camera and said to Yun Chuman, "Say hello to the audience; they've been waiting for almost half an hour."
Yun Chuman curiously leaned closer to the camera, and the live stream was once again bombarded with a beauty attack.
Before they could recover, two more little bundles of joy appeared below. Three pairs of identical puppy eyes stared intently at them through the camera.
—My heart is breaking! They're so cute!
—Oh my god, who can resist this!
—What are you standing there for? Take a screenshot!"
—Waaaah, I finally see my little ones again! I'm so happy!"
Yun Chuman, Yun Juan, and Yun Shu didn't see anything. They waved listlessly at the camera and walked towards the airport terminal with the production crew.
Xiao Xi followed behind them, saying, "The other group of guests has also departed. You'll probably see them when you get to the recording location."
Yun Shu asked softly, "Elder Sister Xiao Xi, who exactly is the other group of guests?"
Yun Juan also looked at her curiously.
Xiao Xi almost surrendered to their gazes and blurted out everything she knew.
She quickly shook her head to clear her mind. No wonder Yun Chuman could never resist the two little ones; they were just too hard to refuse.
Seeing that she didn't answer, the two children lowered their eyes and eyebrows in disappointment, looking pitiful.
Xiao Xi felt a strange sense of guilt. She gritted her teeth and said, "Although I can't say who the other group of guests is, I can tell little Juan and little Shu that you're very popular! Many older brothers and sisters chose you."
Yunjuan and Yunshu's eyes immediately lit up.
Yun Chuman also leaned in: "Really?"
Xiao Xi used one hand to push her face away ruthlessly: "Stop trying to trick me! I can't say any more! If I keep going, I'll lose my job!"
Yun Chuman chuckled and nodded repeatedly, "Okay, okay, I won't ask anymore."
Yun Juan and Yun Shu also tilted their heads back at the same time, making a gesture as if they were zipping up their mouths.
The cameraman, understanding the situation, gave a close-up, and the viewers in the live stream immediately screamed with delight.
Yun Chuman, who had just been joking with the production team, was dumbfounded as soon as she stepped into the airport with her two children.
It was much bigger than she had imagined, bustling with people, and announcements were constantly ringing out.
She gripped her ticket tightly, forcing herself to calm down, and muttered to herself, "First, find the counter for our flight to check in and drop off my luggage."
She looked around and immediately panicked again. It was just a check-in counter, why was it so complicated, and even divided into sections!
Yun Chuman wiped her sweat, finally figuring out that the counter was at lane "N".
She walked towards the prominent sign hanging above, but the further she walked, the more something seemed wrong; why was she getting even further away?
Time ticked by, and she started sweating with anxiety. She wanted to ask an airport staff member for directions, but couldn't find the information desk.
Yun Chuman suddenly realized something: was she... completely directionally challenged? The kind who couldn't find her way without a phone's GPS?
Yun Shu was almost the same; she couldn't even remember the places she had just been.
Realizing they were lost at the airport, the two placed their last hope on the production crew.
Xiao Xi and the others reluctantly turned away from their pitiful looks. Missing their flight because they were lost at the airport—what a hilarious spectacle!
Although Yun Chuman was in a terrible state, for the sake of ratings, they couldn't let it go!
Yun Juan internally sighed. He knew it would turn out like this. When his mother took him on work trips before, if no one was accompanying them, they would definitely miss the flight because they couldn't find their way.
He took Yun Chuman and Yun Shu's hands: "Come with me, I know how to get there."
"Really?" Yun Chuman was about to give up struggling. She was already thinking about how to bargain with the production team to get them to buy new tickets.
Yun Juan nodded seriously.
Yun Chuman and Yun Shu almost burst into tears, looking at him as if he were their savior.Their gazes so eager that Yun Juan squirmed a little.
He turned around, took their hands, and with his short legs, walked forward step by step with great determination, finally leading them to the check-in counter.
"Really, we’re really here!" Yun Chuman exclaimed in surprise, looking at the large flight name behind the counter. "Little Juan, you're amazing!"
"Elder Brother is the best!" Yun Shu clapped her hands excitedly.
Yun Juan proudly put his hands on his hips and puffed out his little belly.
He hadn't expected that Little Shu, like mommy, didn't know the way. It seemed he would have to pay more attention in the future, making sure they didn't get separated from him. Thanks to Yun Juan, Yun Chuman was able to get the two children through security just in time.
The live stream audience burst into laughter at this scene.
—Haha, still the same familiar taste after a few days.
—I didn't expect even little Shu to be unreliable this time.
—Yun Juan: So tiring, I'm the only one in the family who knows the way.
—Haha, my son is bearing pressure he shouldn't have to at his age.
After boarding the plane, the production team couldn't broadcast live, so they could only record it with a camera. If there were any funny clips, they would make them into bonus features later.
The adult and the two children sat on the chairs, all tilting their heads, staring unblinkingly at the clouds outside the window.
Yun Chuman finally managed to squeeze out a sentence: "Looks delicious."
Yun Juan and Yun Shu nodded in agreement.
The production team almost laughed out loud at their pure foodie antics and unanimously decided to make this part into bonus features.
It was already afternoon when the plane arrived in City Z, but the sun was still blazing and waves of heat hit them as soon as they stepped out of the airport.
This time, Yun Chuman didn't act on her own. She handed the address to Yun Juan and humbly asked, "Little Juan, can you tell us how to get there?"
Yun Juan stared at her in disbelief.
Yun Chuman scratched her head. What was wrong? Was there a problem?
Yun Shu was also puzzled. She urged, "Elder Brother, quickly say!"
Yun Juan sighed, "Mom, have you forgotten I can't read?"
Yun Chuman: ...
She really should start arranging academic lessons as soon as possible!
Finally, the family of three hailed a taxi and headed straight for their destination.
The production crew had prepared a two-story villa with a small garden.
It wasn't far from the airport, and Yun Chuman, Yun Juan, and Yun Shu arrived quickly. Since cameras were already set up inside, they followed the production crew to the adjacent villa to rest temporarily.
Yun Chuman put her luggage in the living room and took the two children for a walk. They discovered there was even a swimming pool behind the villa.
"Is this a castle?" Yun Shu exclaimed in surprise.
"Maybe," Yun Juan nodded seriously.
They exchanged a glance and said in unison, "Let's go on an adventure!"
They then walked hand in hand towards a secluded corner of the villa area.
"Little Juan, Little Shu, be careful. Don't go near the swimming pool. I'll go unpack. Call me if anything happens!"
Yun Chuman watched their backs, wanting to laugh. After giving them a few words of advice, she headed towards the villa, thinking about checking the oil paintings later and hoping nothing went wrong.
Compared to the two children, she wasn't interested in the place. In her previous life, her family had a similar house, even larger.
The villa had two bedrooms, one on the first floor and one on the second. Yun Chuman hesitated, dragging her luggage, wondering which room the guest filming this episode would prefer.
Finally, she took out her phone and directly dialed Xiao Xi's number.
The call was answered quickly. Xiao Xi said, annoyed, "Elder Sister, the live stream! Don't call me randomly, our crew can't appear on camera!"
"Just this once, won't do it again."
Yun Chuman said softly, "I just wanted to ask when the other group of guests will arrive, and whether they prefer the upstairs or downstairs bedroom, so I can unpack my luggage."
Her question didn't exceed the program's rules, and she was very polite to the other group of guests. Plus, her tone was kind, so Xiao Xi had no reason to refuse to answer.
So she thought for a moment and said, "I'll ask for you, and let you know in a bit."
Yun Chuman thanked her and sat on the sofa patiently waiting for news.
Looking through the French windows at the clouds chasing each other, she suddenly had a thought: if only her parents and elder brother could see the two children, they would be so happy.
Just as she was lost in thought, Xiao Xi called: "Um... the other group of guests ran into some trouble on the way and might not arrive until tomorrow. You and the two kids should go to the second-floor bedroom; the other group might be better off on the first floor."
"Did Mr. Mo bring all his furry companions?" Yun Chuman asked with a smile.
Xiao Xi was silent for a long time before suddenly raising her voice: "I don't know! I don't know anything!"
Afterward, she pressed the hang-up button with great force.
Yun Chuman chuckled softly and carried her luggage upstairs.
Although the production team tried their best to conceal it, they still gave too much information.
This villa only has two bedrooms, indicating that the other group of guests was definitely not a large family like the director and Yun Xinxin.
The DINK couple (Double Income No Kids) and the sweet young actress don't necessarily need to stay on the first floor.
That leaves only the movie star Mo Rongwen, who had three dogs, five cats, and two chinchillas at home and wasn't very mobile.
The production team didn't let her draw lots, which meant their group had a two-way selection process.
Yun Chuman pushed her luggage to the second-floor bedroom, wiped the sweat from her face, and thought to herself that little Juan and little Shu would be so happy to know the movie star was coming. The two kids had always looked forward to playing with their furry companions.
However, in reality, Mo Rongwen's choice of Yun Juan and Yun Shu was a reluctant one. As a socially awkward person, he simply couldn't get along with the boisterous DINK couple, nor could he face Yun Xinxin and the director's large family.
Furthermore, he was afraid of snakes, insects, and rodents. Eliminating those options, he ultimately had to choose the non pet-friendly children group.
Mo Rongwen spent several days mentally preparing himself before reluctantly accepting this result.
On the day of departure and wanting to bring all his furry companions along, he drove towards City Z early in the morning, but a fight broke out almost immediately after leaving the city.
He was used to it by now, but today his husky had gone completely mad, helping the five cats fight the other two dogs, making the two chinchillas excitedly run around the car.
Mo Rongwen tried to break up the fight, but the husky headbutted him, sending him crashing into the car door. He felt like his whole body was falling apart, so he had to go home, rest for the night, and set off again tomorrow.
"What a bad start!"
Mo Rongwen laid on the bed like a salted fish, looking at the furry creatures surrounding him and feeling utterly helpless.
He sighed heavily. He had no expectations for this episode; he simply regretted participating in the show.
The viewers, who learned from Yun Chuman that the other group was the movie star, saw this scene when they entered the live stream.
—It really is Movie Star Mo! Yun Chuman guessed right; did she peek at the script?
—Why does the Movie Star's face look so utterly hopeless?
—My husband is going to record a show with my son and daughter! Double fan frenzy! —Furry creatures and human babies, ahhh, I can't wait! It's sure to be so heartwarming!
—Healing? I think it'll be more depressing. It's a battle between furry kids and mischievous kids, it's bound to end in chaos!
—That makes it even more exciting, hahaha! I've got my snacks ready, Movie Emperor, hurry up and meet up with Little Juan and Little Shu!
Author's Note:
【Yun Family Diary】
Yun Juan: Mom and younger sister anti-lost manual, to be arranged!
Yun Shu: My first time on an airplane was so much fun~ I really want to pick some little clouds to feed Mom.
Yun Chuman: The two little ones' academic lessons, to be arranged!