WRS – Chapter 45

Jin Xiuzhu’s pregnancy was going relatively well. Unlike Fang Min next door, who was vomiting nonstop, turning pale and faint. Fang Min had always been thin, but now she was so skinny that her chin was pointed, her face completely lacking any flesh, making her eyes look unusually large.

And no matter what she tried to eat, she couldn’t keep it down.

In contrast, Jin Xiuzhu could eat anything with appetite—spicy food, sour food—and her little face was rosy and healthy.

Eventually, Fang Min noticed that Jin Xiuzhu liked eating sour plums and couldn’t resist trying one herself. To her surprise, she could eat it without vomiting. She then started eating sour plums almost as if they were meals, sometimes even mixing them with rice or vegetables to make them easier to eat.

The sour plums were pickled by Jin Xiuzhu herself, extremely sour—so sour that neither of the two children would touch them.

Every meal, when Commissioner Zhu saw Fang Min eating this way, he found it hard to swallow his own food.

Jin Xiuzhu, however, had picked up this habit as well—soaking plums in vinegar or mixing them in food—and now Jiang Mingchuan and the two children would eat with their heads down, afraid that watching them eat would make their own food unappetizing.

In mid-May, Zhong Xue made a special trip from the capital. When Jiang Mingchuan was notified by the soldier at the door, he was momentarily confused about who this other sister was, only realizing after seeing her in person.

Zhong Xue came alone. She had cut her hair short and wore a neat, clean blue work uniform, looking energetic and lively.

She greeted Jiang Mingchuan with a smile, “Brother Mingchuan.”

Jiang Mingchuan smiled back, noticing the two large parcels by her side. He quickly picked them up, “Why did you come all of a sudden without giving me a heads-up so I could meet you at the station?”

Zhong Xue shook her head, “No need. I wanted to try on my own. Staying alone in such a small place all the time, I don’t even know what the outside world is like anymore.”

Then she explained, “I came to see my sister-in-law, mainly for work.”

Jiang Mingchuan nodded, recalling the earlier conversation between Jin Xiuzhu and Wang Ling, guessing what it was about, and led the way home.

Zhong Xue followed behind, walking while observing and occasionally asking Jiang Mingchuan questions. Jiang Mingchuan didn’t talk much; unlike Jin Xiuzhu, who could chat with anyone, he only responded to Zhong Xue’s questions.

Although Zhong Xue now worked at a department store, she wasn’t particularly talkative. She was diligent at work but not especially sweet-talking, so before they even reached the family building, the conversation had naturally dwindled.

Walking one ahead, one behind, anyone unaware would think they didn’t know each other.

It wasn’t until they knocked on the door and saw Jin Xiuzhu open it that Jiang Mingchuan seemed to relax completely, his demeanor softening as he teased Jin Xiuzhu, “Guess who’s here?”

Hearing this, Jin Xiuzhu knew it had to be someone unexpected and asked curiously, “Who?”

Jiang Mingchuan stepped aside, revealing Zhong Xue behind him.

Seeing the dramatically changed Zhong Xue, Jin Xiuzhu was overjoyed, “Zhong Xue, you came by yourself?”

Zhong Xue, noticing Jin Xiuzhu’s delighted expression, felt her mood lift and smiled, “I mainly wanted to come see you all, and also to check out the fabrics you mentioned in your letter.”

Jin Xiuzhu quickly stepped forward and took her hand, “Come in, I’m so happy.”

Then she turned to have Jiang Mingchuan prepare tea and malted milk. Jiang Mingchuan put down the parcels and obediently went to the kitchen.

Zhong Xue hurriedly said, “No, no, Brother, go take care of your own things.”

From the kitchen came Jiang Mingchuan’s voice, “It’s fine, I’ll be quick.”

Zhong Xue didn’t insist further.

Jiang Mingchuan prepared two bowls of malted milk, placing a cup of tea beside Zhong Xue.

One bowl of malted milk was for Zhong Xue, the other for Jin Xiuzhu, who didn’t find anything odd and began sipping hers slowly.

Before leaving, Jiang Mingchuan also took out the trash.

Watching this, Zhong Xue smiled, “This is so nice.”

Jiang Mingchuan had always been taciturn, and she used to think he was dull, but with Jin Xiuzhu, he became gentle and considerate in a way she had never seen before—and it made her a little envious.

Jin Xiuzhu didn’t understand, tilting her head curiously, “What?”

Zhong Xue shook her head, “It’s delicious.”

Jin Xiuzhu laughed, “Yes, it was from Teacher Fang next door.”

Zhong Xue had brought many things—one large parcel of food and drinks, another of gifts for the whole family: a watch for Jin Xiuzhu and Jiang Mingchuan, and coats and shoes for the two children.

“The food was mostly from my parents’ friends after they returned. There’s too much to finish, so I brought some here. Don’t mind—it’s all good stuff. My parents are very grateful for the care you gave me before. Without you, they might not have been able to come back. The watches are from my parents, the children’s clothes and shoes I bought myself because I liked them.”

“You’re too polite, really unnecessary.”

Zhong Xue shook her head, “Sister-in-law, you saying that makes you the polite one. I just wish I could have brought more. Without you, I wouldn’t have had the courage to stand up to them. I’d still be suffering at the Pan family.”

“My life is really good now. My parents help with the children; I just need to focus on work. I’m not planning to get married for now; we’ll see about the future.”

“That’s great.”

After learning about Jin Xiuzhu’s pregnancy, Zhong Xue had insisted on cooking lunch herself, using the ingredients Jiang Mingchuan bought that morning. When he returned at noon, the meal was ready.

He still carried a piece of meat he had bought from the supply store on the way home.

During lunch, Zhong Xue told him, “I won’t be eating here tonight.”

“What, not staying overnight?”

“No, I’m going to the county this afternoon. Besides visiting you, it’s also work-related. Our manager up top is retiring soon, and I’m competing with another colleague for the position, so I came over. Didn’t take much leave.”

Jin Xiuzhu nodded understandingly, “I see. I’ll call Sister Wang this afternoon, you can go see her yourself. I’ve already told her about you; she used to ask me about your letters every day. Now that you’re here in person, she’ll be even happier.”

Hearing this, Jiang Mingchuan said, “I’ll call her; give me the phone in a bit.”

“Okay.”

After lunch, Jiang Mingchuan took Zhong Xue to the main gate, made the call to Wang Ling, then accompanied her to the train.

In the afternoon, Jin Xiuzhu wondered if Zhong Xue would leave directly, but by evening she returned with Wang Ling. Wang Ling entered, beaming, “Your friend is generous—ordered three hundred bolts of fabric right away.”

Zhong Xue followed, entering and saying, “Sister-in-law, just letting you know I’m heading back now.”

Jin Xiuzhu hesitated, “Leaving already? It’s almost dark.”

“No worries, as long as the train runs.”

“Is it that urgent?”

Wang Ling laughed, “No problem, I’ll take her to the city and make sure she catches the train.”

Jin Xiuzhu relaxed, “Thanks, Sister Wang. It’s her first time here, she’s not familiar yet.”

“Don’t worry,” Wang Ling said.

Wang Ling was very easy-going now, and Zhong Xue, her business partner, was straightforward. At the factory, she got straight to examining the goods.

Seeing the high quality, Zhong Xue didn’t complain, going straight to the back factory to inspect the premium fabrics.

She asked seriously about the silk production site, the pros and cons of the fabrics, even the design patterns… While it seemed meticulous and demanding, her experience told her that the more someone asked, the more serious they were about cooperation—they just feared being overlooked.

Sure enough, after confirming the details, she decisively ordered three hundred bolts. She admitted she wasn’t entirely confident about selling them in the capital and needed to organize logistics, but it shouldn’t be a problem. She would take two bolts back first, then arrange transportation for the rest, ensuring no losses.

Only then did Wang Ling relax, agreeing to speed up production for the remaining fabric.

Zhong Xue worked efficiently, signing the order on the spot.

Afterwards, she said she wanted to say goodbye to Jin Xiuzhu and family, and Wang Ling offered to accompany her.

Zhong Xue was like a benefactor to her now; she wanted to handle everything personally.

Zhong Xue arrived in a hurry and left just as quickly.

Jin Xiuzhu hadn’t expected anything at home worth sending along, thinking she would make clothes for the two children to send later, “Take care on the way, and call us when you arrive safely.”

“Okay.”

After they left, Fang Min peeked through a small gap in the door. Catching Jin Xiuzhu’s gaze, she shyly smiled, “I heard noises, curious to see.”

Jin Xiuzhu briefly introduced Zhong Xue.

Fang Min immediately recognized her. Jin Xiuzhu had mentioned her after returning from the capital. She remembered clearly—this person had single-handedly sent the entire in-law family to the police station. Fang Min thought to herself that she could never have done that.

At that time, Fang Min got inspired and wrote this character into her book. Later, the story received positive feedback. Many readers wrote letters saying they saw themselves in the side characters but lacked her courage.

She even replied, clarifying it was a true story, mentioning Jin Xiuzhu’s deeds, hoping readers could draw strength and continue loving life.

Fang Min never received a reply, but she hoped the person continued to do well.

Jin Xiuzhu asked her, “Have you eaten?”

“The Political Commissar hasn’t returned yet. I’ll wait for him to come back before making dinner.”

Jin Xiuzhu nodded. “Alright. If he doesn’t come back, come over next door. I’ll make you a bowl of noodles.”

“Okay.”

Jin Xiuzhu closed the door. After He Yan finished washing the dishes, he came out of the kitchen and excitedly rummaged through the gifts and food Zhong Xue had brought today.

Zhong Xue had given He Yan a pair of rubber-soled shoes with army-green fabric. These shoes were very popular now—adults were reluctant to buy them, let alone for children.

He Yan eagerly put on the new shoes. They were a little big, but he still liked them. Soon, he took them off and put them back in the box. “I’ll wear them in the second half of the year. When they’re small enough, I’ll give them to Yang Yingxiong.”

Yang Yingxiong didn’t have many new clothes or shoes; most of his were leftovers from kids in the army. Now he wore mostly Wei Ningqing’s clothes and shoes, which Grandma Chen had washed clean for him. Some were He Yan’s. At the beginning of the year, Jin Xiuzhu had made a new outfit for Yang Yingxiong, but he had never worn it.

According to He Yan, he treasured it in his wardrobe.

He Yan was very happy. “Aunt Zhong Xue is so nice.”

Then he went back to the food—lots of canned fruits, malted milk, various biscuits and candies, dried longan, brown sugar… all his favorites.

Jin Xiuzhu reminded him, “Share with your sister.”

“I know.”

Then he called the younger sister over. Each took a portion, dividing everything evenly. Whatever remained at the end was for Mom and Dad.

Fu Yanyan wasn’t particularly fond of snacks, but she made sure she got her fair share.

She carried her portion to her room, planning to save it and tease He Yan after he finished his own, making him do whatever she wanted at that time.

He Yan, unaware of his sister’s little scheme, happily carried his snacks to his room, already thinking about which ones he’d share with Wei Ningqing and Yang Yingxiong tomorrow.

When Jiang Mingchuan returned, Jin Xiuzhu told him about Zhong Xue’s visit and departure.

Today, Jiang Mingchuan had intentionally come home early. When he heard Zhong Xue had left, he said, “That’s fine. I’ll call her family later.”

“Alright, we’ll send some things over. She brought so many nice things this time; it was so sudden, I wasn’t prepared.”

“I’ll handle buying the items. Don’t worry about it.”

“Okay.”

After dinner that evening, Jiang Mingchuan boiled a pot of water for Jin Xiuzhu to take a bath.

The weather was gradually warming up, and Jin Xiuzhu started needing daily baths. Even though she didn’t sweat much staying at home, she felt a little… off, perhaps because of the pregnancy, and sensed a slight odor.

Her belly was starting to show. Jiang Mingchuan was concerned, and every time she bathed, he stood outside waiting.

While Jin Xiuzhu bathed, Jiang Mingchuan chatted from outside, telling stories about his past training—some scary, some funny, and many ordinary little things, each interesting. Jin Xiuzhu didn’t have such amusing stories to share; many things had happened to her, but sharing them might scare him.

She listened carefully, slowly understanding his work and profession. At first, she found this place strange, and the soldiers odd. In her eyes, soldiers were protectors of the land, but here, it seemed they had deeper meaning—they were the people’s soldiers, serving the country and its citizens, and civilians treated them with special respect. Yet, they remained humble and low-key.

Perhaps influenced by him, Jin Xiuzhu also felt that soldiers were admirable, and that Jiang Mingchuan himself was a good man.

After Jin Xiuzhu finished bathing, Jiang Mingchuan emptied the water, then helped the two children wash up. Once everyone was done, he took the dirty clothes out to wash.

Usually, by the time he returned, Jin Xiuzhu had already gone to bed. At this time, he would massage her. He didn’t know who told him that pregnant women were prone to edema in the later stages, so massaging was necessary.

Only his strength was too strong. Every time, Jin Xiuzhu felt some pain, even when she asked him to be gentler.

In her previous life, Jin Xiuzhu would have looked down on such a rough man. She liked knowledgeable, gentle, and refined men. But now, she felt content.

After massaging her, Jiang Mingchuan lay down, pulling the blanket closer to her.

Jin Xiuzhu suddenly said, “I’ve thought it over—I still want a daughter. I don’t want to become a mother-in-law.”

Though society still favored boys, her daughter wouldn’t have to endure hardships, so having a girl was better.

“I think Zhong Xue is doing well. Now she lives with her parents, and the children are raised by them. Our daughter will be like that too.”

Unlike in the Dajing Dynasty, where women rarely returned to their natal home after marriage, here there weren’t such restrictions.

Jiang Mingchuan listened to her say this every night. It seemed that if she wanted the baby to be a girl, it would be a girl. He had grown used to it. Both Political Commissar Zhu and Regiment Commander Yan said that pregnant women had volatile emotions—just indulge them.

Even gentle Fang Min cried over minor disappointments; you just had to agree with them. “That’s fine. I also like daughters.”

“See? Daughters are the best.”

“Mm.”

Jiang Mingchuan gently touched her belly. “Sleep now.”

Before closing her eyes, Jin Xiuzhu suddenly said, “But the thought that this is our child, whether boy or girl, makes me so happy.”

Jiang Mingchuan paused at her words, then felt a warm softness in his heart.

Some time later, Jiang Mingchuan suddenly woke up from a nightmare, feeling as if he had been pulled from water, drenched in cold sweat.

He quickly checked around and, seeing Jin Xiuzhu sleeping beside him, finally relaxed.

He had just had a terrifying dream—he dreamed he had divorced Jin Xiuzhu. In the dream, she had a bad temper, constantly arguing with him, accusing him of liking other soldiers’ wives, of looking down on her, and even calling Yanyan stupid.

When he tried to explain, she acted as if she couldn’t hear him, calling him useless.

Every time he spoke to other military wives, she would throw a fit, even smashing things at home…

The children were scared, huddled in a corner, too frightened to cry.

In the dream, he tried several times to have a serious talk with her, but it was useless. She got angry after just a sentence or two. Eventually, he refused to speak, and her temper grew even more violent.

He felt utterly exhausted in the dream—a fatigue so deep it was palpable even while dreaming.

Fortunately, he woke up. For the first time, Jiang Mingchuan was grateful that it was just a dream.

He lay in bed, reassuring himself that dreams were the opposite of reality. Yet, for some reason, he couldn’t fall back asleep, haunted by the images from the nightmare.

At the end of June, Fang Min’s sister-in-law came over.

Her name was Zhu Ying. Jin Xiuzhu usually thought Political Commissar Zhu looked fair and assumed the family was well-off, but seeing Zhu Ying made her realize it wasn’t as she imagined.

According to Fang Min, Political Commissar Zhu’s grandfather had been a wealthy landlord. His father was the most promising child and had even studied abroad. The mother of the siblings was a university student, once the teacher of Fang Min’s grandparents. Later, they taught Political Commissar Zhu, which left a deep impression.

However, the parents died in the war when the siblings were young. Their grandfather abandoned all his assets and returned to their ancestral village to farm. The siblings stayed with relatives in turns, so they didn’t live well.

Zhu Ying married early, taking her brother with her. Her husband passed away a few years ago; her eldest son was in the army, and her youngest daughter had married a comrade-in-arms of her son—a former orphan. So she now lived with her youngest daughter, helping to take care of her grandchild.

Hearing that Fang Min was pregnant, and knowing both sisters were grown, she hurried over after arranging care for her daughter and grandchildren.

Zhu Ying was about ten years older than Political Commissar Zhu but looked much older. Half her hair was white, and wrinkles ran deep, especially two lines at the corners of her mouth, making her look stern when not smiling.

When she first visited, He Yan barely dared to speak.

But she was kind. She brought many local specialties to share with Jin Xiuzhu’s family, wanting to thank them for their help, as she had often heard from her brother and sister-in-law in letters.

Before coming, Jin Xiuzhu had worried that Fang Min’s sister-in-law might be difficult, but that worry was unnecessary.

After Zhu Ying arrived, Jin Xiuzhu felt at ease. She cleaned Fang Min’s house thoroughly, came over to help clean Jin Xiuzhu’s home, cooked extra at noon to share, and so on. Jin Xiuzhu eventually told her not to bother; she just came to eat with the children. Zhu Ying was bolder than Fang Min.

Zhu Ying liked Fu Yanyan the most. Especially after realizing Yanyan was smart, she doted on her, carrying her everywhere, constantly saying she had never seen such a clever girl.

She told Jin Xiuzhu, “My daughter was very naughty as a child, practically a little ruler. Now with two little rulers, it drives me crazy. I hoped my eldest would have a granddaughter, but that boy doesn’t listen. He’s twenty-five or twenty-six and still won’t marry. Every time I urge him, he says he’s busy.”

Jin Xiuzhu laughed. “Your eldest hasn’t married yet?”

“No, he’s always in the army. Even when he comes home, he leaves after a few days. I’m worried about him.”

Jin Xiuzhu could only comfort her. “The timing isn’t right yet. Just be happy for Political Commissar Zhu and Fang Min now.”

“That’s true.”

Zhu Ying didn’t dare to criticize Fang Min in front of her, as her daughter said—they were a couple. She had no reason to be upset, so she focused on cleaning, keeping the house spotless, and ignored the rest.

She liked Jin Xiuzhu very much. She gave her a batch of high-quality fabrics. Hearing from her brother-in-law that these fabrics could sell for tens at the department store, she didn’t even dare touch them, only planning to take them home for her daughter and grandson.

Jin Xiuzhu was beautiful, spoke well, and didn’t look down on her as a rural woman. If it weren’t for Jin Xiuzhu being married and pregnant, she might have suggested her daughter instead. Her eldest wasn’t inferior to Commander Jiang—tall and strong, handsome enough that everyone commented on him.

A few days after Zhu Ying arrived, it started raining. Initially, they expected it to stop after a few days, but it continued for two weeks without stopping.

Fang Min was relieved. She said to Jin Xiuzhu, “Luckily my eldest sister-in-law came early, or it would be inconvenient.”

“I don’t know when it’ll stop—it’s annoying to watch.”

“Probably due to a typhoon in the south. Don’t worry.”

Jin Xiuzhu didn’t understand typhoons. She just thought that if it didn’t stop, the bedding would get damp and impossible to sleep on.

Before the rain stopped, Jiang Mingchuan received a notification at night: he had to take troops out for flood relief.

He had been coming home late these days. Jin Xiuzhu was used to it and didn’t think much of it. But at around nine p.m., he woke her, saying he had to go for disaster relief and to stay home safely.

Before she could react, he hugged her tightly, kissed her forehead, and hurriedly left.

Jin Xiuzhu touched her forehead, stung by his beard, and scolded him in annoyance, “You bastard.”