Chapter 42:

Before leaving, Jicheng asked her if she wanted to go to town together to see the pastry shop open. She thought about it but still said no.

Of course, she wanted to see the shop bustling with customers, but making money was the top priority. She hadn’t even started preparing the pastries Jicheng needed to take tomorrow. While lighting the fire, she remembered what Jicheng had said last night—he had gone up the mountain and found all the herbs Manager Jin’s friend wanted. The path was rough, but fortunately, the herbs were densely clustered, so it wouldn’t take much effort.

Chunfu thought she’d finish early so he could have a meal as soon as he returned. That way, they could gather more herbs while it was still light, and having someone to talk to would make the task less tedious.

Liansheng’s wife, working in the yard, caught a whiff of the delicious aroma from Chunfu’s house and smiled to herself before heading out to cut pigweed. Just yesterday, she had discussed this with Liansheng, who laughed and told her not to worry—whatever happened, it was Jicheng and Chunfu’s own doing, their well-deserved fortune. When passing by a grain shop with Jicheng the past couple of days, the shopkeeper had been very polite to him, and Jicheng had stood tall, chatting and laughing. Others would have bent over backward to flatter such a person. There was no point in comparing—people should be content. After a pause, Liansheng added seriously, “Don’t you go shamelessly asking them for anything and make things awkward.”

Liansheng’s wife pushed him playfully. “Do I look like that kind of person?” They could only envy, not resent. There were plenty of ways to make money in this world, but it all depended on whether one was destined for it.

Staying home the past two days due to family matters, she overheard someone gossiping about how Chunju had given Chunfu a hard time. She sneered and raised her voice, glancing at the person working nearby. “Honestly, people just can’t be compared. Our Lian family and Jicheng’s have been neighbors for years. He always seemed quiet, but who knew he’d turn out to be such a doting husband? Don’t blame me for speaking out of turn, but Jicheng fetches water every day for Chunfu to soak her feet. If you ask me, men at home are just spoiled brats who don’t treat women as human beings. Oh, Chunju, dear, how did your eye get bruised again?”

Chunju flared up, standing abruptly and retorting sarcastically, “Why is Sister-in-law suddenly singing their praises? Just because they helped Liansheng? If they hadn’t, I bet you’d still be gossiping about them. I can’t stand people like you. Jicheng should open his eyes wide and see through those who pretend to be kind but stab others in the back.”

Liansheng’s wife was well-respected in the village—blunt and sharp-tongued, but fair-minded. Chunju’s words were outright slander. Her friends nudged her to stop, but Chunju, having bottled up her anger for days, couldn’t hold back.

“Why can’t I speak? If Jicheng hadn’t meddled in the first place, would things have turned out like this? As for him serving Chunfu—is that what a man should do? Isn’t he ashamed? Then again, he could only marry a fool like Chunfu. If he didn’t take her, who else would? Truly, birds of a feather flock together.”

The onlookers watched Chunju, who was laughing hysterically, and wondered if she’d been beaten silly by Cenniu. What nonsense was she spouting?

Unexpectedly, before Liansheng’s wife could respond, a limping man—more handsome than most—emerged from the crowd. He hobbled up to Chunju and snapped, “You gossipy wench! How my cousin and his wife live is none of your business. If you’re so capable, go home and make your own man dote on you. You’re just asking for trouble, with that horse-face of yours causing nothing but trouble.”

Only then did everyone recognize him—Jikun, Jicheng’s cousin from the second uncle’s family. Since when were they so close? Liansheng’s wife, sensing something off about him, took her basket and left, calling for Chunfu from over the wall. When Chunfu approached, she asked, “Are you and Jicheng back in touch with Second Uncle’s family?”

Wiping sweat from her brow, Chunfu shook her head. “No, why?”

Puzzled, Liansheng’s wife frowned. “Just now, I argued with Chunju, and she went wild, badmouthing both our families. I was about to reason with her when Jikun stepped in, scolding her fiercely. He looked downright terrifying. I can’t help but think Second Uncle’s family is up to something. You and Jicheng should be careful.”

Chunfu nodded with a smile. “Got it. Thanks, Sister-in-law. I’ll tell Jicheng when he’s back. I really appreciate you looking out for me.”

Liansheng’s wife waved her off. “No need for formalities. Seeing them fume gives me joy. Those judgmental gossips should look at themselves first. Anyway, go on with your work. I need to mend Liansheng’s clothes.”

Chunfu chuckled. “Jicheng’s clothes are barely wearable now. I’ve been thinking of making him a new set. I might need your help then.”

“Sure, just come by when you’re ready.”

Experimenting, Chunfu added petals to the fruit jam, enhancing its fragrance and taste. She set aside two for Jicheng to try later. Having gotten the hang of it, the work wasn’t too taxing. After finishing, she sat down to rest before starting on the dough for dinner.

Lost in thought, she was startled by an unfamiliar male voice outside. Curious, she stepped out to see a stranger—until she noticed his limp. It was Jikun, Jicheng’s cousin.

“Cousin-in-law, what are you up to? Today, I overheard some busybodies badmouthing you and Jicheng. I couldn’t stand it and gave them a piece of my mind. Don’t worry—no one will dare bully you again. If anyone mouths off, they’ll answer to me. Cousin-in-law, won’t you invite me in for some water?” He peered past her, trying to step inside.

Chunfu smirked coldly. She realized he was no different from Wang Bo—both needed a lesson. Shaking her head, she said, “Brother, whatever you have to say can wait until Jicheng returns. It’s improper for me to entertain you alone. You’d best leave.”

Jikun hadn’t expected such blunt rejection. Up close, she was even more radiant than he remembered, her sweet fragrance making his heart itch. He’d never met a woman who suited his tastes so perfectly. Why had his parents passed her over, letting Jicheng have her? The thought filled him with resentment.

Not wanting to anger her, he forced a smile. “Fine, I’ll wait for Jicheng. Don’t be so cold, Cousin-in-law, or I’ll be too scared to visit.”

His grin struck Chunfu as sinister and unpleasant. Without another word, she stepped aside, clearly signaling for him to leave. Jikun had no choice but to hobble away.

Chunfu pondered. She needed a plan. What if he returned with ill intentions? Even with all her wits, she couldn’t overpower a man. She loathed such men, wishing they’d vanish from the earth. Then she thought of Jiliang—flawed as he was, at least he was loyal to Second Uncle, unlike this good-for-nothing Jikun. But blood ties meant even the worst could be endlessly forgiven.

When Jicheng returned, Chunfu told him what happened. He frowned, deep in thought. At the earliest, he wouldn’t be home regularly until the New Year—work was too demanding. He knew Chunfu didn’t want others meddling in her business, but the village had its share of troublemakers. Liansheng’s wife couldn’t always be around to help. If something happened, Chunfu would have no one to turn to.

After a long pause, he said, “How about finding someone reliable to help you? They could assist with your work and keep you company, ensuring you’re safe. I’ve been earning well lately—three or four coins a day should suffice.”

Chunfu hesitated. “Forget it. I’ll manage. I refuse to believe I can’t handle a cripple.”

Jicheng’s expression darkened. “Don’t be stubborn. I’ll talk to Liansheng’s wife tomorrow.”

Unable to sway him, Chunfu silently served him dinner. Eager to join him in the mountains, she ate quickly, washed the dishes, changed into lighter clothes, and clung to his sleeve. Knowing how headstrong she was, Jicheng brought a torch and a basket, locked the door, and led her up the mountain.

Along the way, he couldn’t help scolding her. “Why must you be so stubborn? It’s fine during the day, but at night, the bugs will eat you alive. I’ve never met anyone as disobedient as you. Just for tonight, understand? Don’t make me worry.”

Chunfu retorted, “Two people can gather more and finish earlier. If you won’t take care of yourself, I will.”

Outargued, Jicheng took her to the most treacherous spot while it was still light. Though illiterate, he could read the diagrams in books perfectly. Chunfu, whose focus had always been on food rather than herbs, followed his lead without question. Even densely clustered, the herbs weren’t endless. Working swiftly, they filled the basket by dusk and moved to the next location.

Luck was on their side—they encountered no snakes or wild animals despite venturing deep into the woods. Chunfu’s nerves settled, and her courage grew. Moonlight filtered through the trees, ethereal and serene. Startled birds took flight at their approach, their wings and the insects’ chirps piercing the night’s silence.

Chunfu broke the quiet, her voice echoing. “We’re like intruders, disturbing their peace.”

Jicheng, gripping her hand tightly as if afraid she’d vanish, chuckled. “Before wild boars started attacking, these hills were crowded. Life was harder then—people relied on foraging to survive. These mushrooms may look plentiful now, but back then, they were picked before they could grow. It was a race. Some say the mountain spirit punished human greed by taking Axiang’s brother.”

Enjoying the tranquility, Chunfu followed closely. “Why not say the heavens favor us? They’ve given us a chance at a better life. If others grow bold and return to forage, who are we to stop them?”

Bathed in moonlight, their figures cast long shadows. Laughter made time fly. The remaining herbs grew in flatter terrain. Jicheng lit the torch, its flame warding off the night’s chill and lurking beasts. Holding the torch, Chunfu watched him expertly pluck herbs and felt safe—as if standing behind him, no danger could touch her. He was her unshakable foundation, her shelter in this world.

With a full basket, they returned at midnight, washed up, and slept. Since they’d promised Manager Jin dried herbs, Jicheng only took pastries the next day. The tantalizing aroma drew frequent glances from Third Uncle and Liansheng.

Third Uncle, never one to hold back, asked cheerfully in the otherwise empty cart, “What delicacies are you bringing to town every day? That smell is irresistible.”

Having extras prepared by Chunfu, Jicheng handed one each to Third Uncle and Liansheng. “My wife’s pastries. Try them—they’re delicious.”

Third Uncle took a bite. The flaky crust and fragrant filling—infused with petals—delighted him. “Your little wife is full of surprises! These are better than any professional baker’s. If you sold these in town, you’d make a fortune.”

Jicheng grinned, rubbing his head. Liansheng, however, shifted uncomfortably before speaking up. “About what you said to my wife this morning… I’m not sure it’s right. If she learns your trade and starts selling the same, wouldn’t that be… stealing?”

Touched by his integrity—unlike others who’d jump at the chance to copy Chunfu’s skills—Jicheng reassured him. “Brother Liansheng, don’t overthink it. I trust you and your wife completely. Besides, she’s been idle at home lately. This could keep her busy.”

Liansheng scratched his head sheepishly. “Look at you, always helping us. How can we ever repay you?”

Third Uncle, savoring the last crumbs, laughed. “Jicheng helps because he respects you. Take Cenniu—even if he begged, you wouldn’t agree. I heard Chunju picked a fight with your wife over this but ended up quarreling with Cenniu instead. Serves her right.”

Jicheng smiled silently, inwardly pleased. As long as Chunfu wasn’t wronged, he’d bear any consequences, even if she crippled someone.

Meanwhile, Liansheng’s wife, after feeding her children, hesitated outside Jicheng’s gate, feeling awkward about the arrangement.

Chunfu, kneading dough, ran out to fetch water and saw her lingering. “Sister-in-law, what are you doing out there? Come in!”

Once inside the kitchen, Liansheng’s wife fidgeted. “After what I told you yesterday, Jikun showed up. I don’t trust him, so I told Jicheng. He’s worried and thinks it’s safest if I’m around.”

Liansheng’s wife bristled. “If that bastard dares misbehave, I’ll break his other leg! At his age, still causing trouble—what a disgrace!” Then, sheepishly: “I just feel bad intruding. You’re already so busy.”

Chunfu reassured her. “Don’t overthink it. We’ll just make our usual pastries, maybe try a few variations. It’s not hard to learn.”

Grateful for the kindness, Liansheng’s wife beamed. “Don’t worry, I know my place. Jicheng mentioned paying me, but that’s too formal. I do have a shameless request—could you spare a couple of imperfect ones for my kids? They’ve been drooling over the smells from your yard.”

Chunfu laughed. “My mistake—I should’ve sent some earlier. I was just worried about running short for the shop. There’s plenty today. Take a few back, but please keep it quiet. Who knows what ideas others might get?”

Delighted, Liansheng’s wife nodded eagerly. “I understand. Us villagers struggle enough as it is. But you’re clever—how’d you come up with this?”

Rolling the dough, Chunfu grinned. “Thanks to Jicheng. When he took me to town, the shopkeeper’s daughter was kind enough to chat with me. The idea just came to me, and it worked out. I just want Jicheng to have it easier. Look how thin he is—no matter what, he never seems to gain weight.”

Liansheng’s wife admired Chunfu more than ever. For someone so young to be so resourceful—far beyond the usual village women who only knew housework, farming, and gossip. No wonder Chunfu stood out. Who in the village could match her poise? She might even become a wealthy madam one day. The thought slipped out: “With your smarts, you’ll surely make it big. Let those jealous fools seethe!”

Chunfu covered her mouth, laughing. “I’ll take your blessing to heart!”