OBS Chapter 274
Chapter 274
Returning to the family compound, Zhou Wei still hadn't recovered. She had thought that with all the money her son had saved up, plus what the family had, there would be quite a bit left over even after paying for the wedding.Looking at the situation now, they would be penniless after the wedding. Just thinking about it upset her. "Sister-in-law, could you go talk to the Xiao family and see if we can skip buying the television?"
Nan Sheng refused. "Eldest Sister-in-law, a brigade commander marrying off his daughter might not ask for a bride price, but they still need to save face. The television is non-negotiable. Besides, Sicheng's own allowance is enough to cover it."
"It's enough, sure, but how are they going to live their days after this?"
Eldest Brother Lin told her to say less. "If the money is gone, he can earn more. If worse comes to worst, we can subsidize them. Don't embarrass our son!"
Sicheng and Xiao Wanru were deliberately kept out of today's meeting between the two families, just to see if the two sides could come to an agreement. When they both learned that the wedding date had been successfully set, they were overjoyed. Seeing her son look so happy, Zhou Wei ultimately held back from saying anything to spoil the mood.
With the New Year fast approaching, Eldest Brother Lin and his wife stayed for two days before leaving. They had to go back and buy supplies for the holidays. Even though their son and new daughter-in-law wouldn't be staying at home for many days, they still needed to tidy things up.
When they left, Sicheng took time off to see them off at the train station. Seeing his son become more and more successful, Eldest Brother Lin felt especially glad.
When they held the wedding ceremony in their hometown, Lin Han and his wife were too busy to go back, so they only attended the Xiao family's side of the celebration. After all, it was close by, and they only needed to take half a day off to come over.
Xiaocheng was a sensible child, and Nan Sheng was rather partial to him. She bought the young couple a soft leather sofa, which Wanru absolutely loved. Sicheng knew his second aunt doted on him, but he didn't dare mention this to his family, afraid that his elder brother would have a problem with it.
Nan Sheng herself didn't care. The money was hers, and she could spend it however she pleased. If anyone dared to have an issue with it, they could just stop associating with her!
Sizhe was also earning an allowance now. Hearing that his second sister-in-law loved beauty products, he gifted her a rather expensive set of vanishing cream. Nan Sheng and the others even whispered behind his back that this boy would definitely know how to make girls happy in the future.
In the blink of an eye, Siqi tested into university and was now nearing graduation. She hadn't been boasting; she really did get into the law department at Jingdu University. After graduation, she was assigned to the Discipline Inspection Commission of the local district government where they lived.
This, of course, was no coincidence. Nan Sheng had asked for a favor to arrange it. There was no helping it; the little girl was simply too clingy. Even though she could have lived on campus, she preferred to commute two hours every day just to attend classes. She couldn't bear to be away from home at all.
It was said that quite a few people pursued her in college, but she declared that she wouldn't consider anyone who wasn't a local. She just couldn't leave home.
Since the reform and opening up, the country's daily changes were astonishing, with the south developing particularly fast. Taking advantage of the low housing prices, Nan Sheng bought an apartment for both her son and daughter in Jingdu. She also bought herself a courtyard house. The properties had all been renovated and were ready to move into at any time.
Mingli's child, Nan Feng, was also in junior high now. His grades were quite good, and Mingli wanted him to test into a school in Jingdu.
"Wow, we finally get to go back to our hometown for the New Year!"
Qiqi was especially excited. Most importantly, her brother also had time off this year. It was incredibly rare for all of them to gather together like this.
"Stop grinning like a fool and go back to your room to pack your things. We're heading back to our hometown tomorrow."
Actually, there wasn't much to pack, just a few changes of clothes. However, Qiqi was growing increasingly fond of dressing up and had to change into a new outfit every day, so she brought the most stuff.
"Mom, are Second Brother and Second Sister-in-law taking the same train as us?"
"They'll be going back two days later. Your little sister is sick."
The grandson Zhou Wei had been hoping for ultimately turned out to be a granddaughter. Though she didn't dare complain openly, she constantly muttered that their family line was broken and that she couldn't hold her head up high in the village.
Some muddle-headed people even advised her to take the granddaughter back to the village to raise, tell outsiders the child had died, and then have Sicheng and his wife try for another one. Quite a few people did exactly that.
Afraid of upsetting her daughter-in-law, she spoke to her son about it privately. As a result, Sicheng flew into a massive rage and was so angry that he refused to go home for the New Year for two years. He was only willing to go back this year because Lin Guozheng was in poor health.
"Ah, they aren't going back with us? I wanted to take my little sister out to play," Qiqi said, her tone filled with disappointment.
"Ah what? Your little sister isn't going back to the hometown anyway. She's sick, and it's not good to toss her around on the journey."
Xiao Wanru wasn't stupid either. She knew her mother-in-law favored boys over girls, and her daughter wasn't as good at acting cute and sweet-talking as Zhuzhu. If she could avoid taking the child back, she would.
This time, Sicheng had discussed it with her, saying that since his grandfather was sick, the whole family should go back. Wanru had agreed. Who could have expected that just as they were about to head home, the child would fall ill? She had been running a fever every night and suffering for two days straight.
Under these circumstances, Sicheng couldn't bear to put his daughter through the grueling trip, so they left her behind for his parents-in-law to help take care of.
Nan Sheng's entourage of bodyguards had increased to four, with more hidden in the shadows. They split into two cars to protect her and would also board the train with Nan Sheng's group.
At first, Qiqi had been curious, but now that she was used to it, she thought nothing of it. They rode in a soft sleeper carriage, and even the extra empty bed was purchased so they wouldn't be disturbed.
After a day and a night of bumpy travel, they arrived in Huaishan County. Upon getting off the train, the bodyguards cleared the way. Once they exited the station, Mingli didn't even dare to get too close. It wasn't until Nan Sheng called out to him that he dared to step forward.
"Sister, what is all this?"
When Mingli saw his sister the year before last, she didn't have this kind of grand display. Nan Sheng just smiled and said nothing. As the country's new weapons made their debut in border conflicts, quite a few spies had infiltrated the country.
Starting last year, the state had significantly tightened security for experts like them. Especially for someone of her caliber, it was fine as long as nothing happened, but if she were even accidentally bumped into, a large group of people would immediately swarm out from the shadows.
To avoid causing trouble, Nan Sheng rarely went out nowadays. In truth, it was quite restricting.
"We'll talk about it when we get home!"
The accompanying security personnel had already coordinated everything in advance. They had cars available here as well. They split up, two to a car, and made do with sleeping in the vehicles for the night.
Arriving at the Yu family home, Nan Sheng hurriedly greeted Yu Feng and his wife. They looked quite spirited, though their voices weren't as robust and resonant as before.
Mingli was now the Party Secretary of Huaishan County, and it was said he would be transferred to the city next year. With Nan Sheng's guidance, the county's economy had grown rapidly under his administration. The city leaders were counting on his transfer to drive the development of the entire city.
Yu Feng looked at Nan Sheng, somewhat puzzled. "Little Nan, do you researchers never age? How do you still look like a young girl?"
Nan Sheng couldn't help but laugh. "I don't have to do any hard labor all day, so I guess I just age a bit slower. The food smells absolutely delicious; I'm starving!"
The Yu family's grandson didn't have good grades, so a couple of years ago, they had asked Nan Sheng for a favor to send him off to the army. He was currently serving under Sizhe.
Yu Feng said, "Sizhe has been promoted to regiment commander, right? Becoming a regiment commander at such a young age—his future is truly limitless."
Lin Han explained, "He graduated from a military academy, so his starting point was naturally higher than others. With his high level of education, as long as he accumulates enough military merit, he'll be promoted very quickly."
Auntie Yu sighed. "The one in our family just can't study. If only he could get into a military academy like Sizhe."
Fortunately, Nan Feng's grades were quite good, which gave the old couple some comfort. Mingli had a bellyful of questions he wanted to ask, but since it was getting late, he held his tongue.
The next day, when Luotong and Nan Feng saw the two sedans, they were equally stunned. They had thought Nan Sheng drove back herself.
How could I have driven back! These are borrowed, and I have to return them when we leave. Hurry up and get in!
Last night, afraid that they would be too cold sleeping outside, Mingli specially brought out quilts and hot water bottles. Even knowing they already had some, he insisted on giving them, though they were returned early this morning.
After getting into the sedan, Nan Feng and Luotong were full of curiosity. The closer the villages were to the county town, the smoother the roads were. But once they reached Huaishan Town, it was a different story; the bumpy, potholed roads could practically shake the stomach acid out of a person.
Nan Sheng and the others went back to her maiden home first. As soon as she got out of the car, her first words were, Brother, when drinking water, do not forget the well-digger. You cannot forget your roots!
Hurry up and fix the roads around our hometown, otherwise it really will kill someone!
Mingli nodded frantically. He was already working hard on repairing the roads. As soon as the funds arrived, they were invested in construction. Soon, the entire county town would take on a completely new look.
Zhong Yanyan did not understand what security personnel were; she insisted on dragging them all to the table to eat. Once they arrived at her home, they were guests!
Nan Sheng felt helpless about this. Mother, they have discipline to follow. Someone must stay outside to keep watch; they can just take turns eating.
At first, they would not even accept the food she brought them. It was only after spending a long time together that they reached the point of being able to eat at the same table.
After the meal, only their own family members were left in the room. The Nan family's look of wanting to ask but not daring to made Nan Sheng laugh.
I work at a research institute, and my recent project is quite important. To ensure that information is not leaked, the government sent people to protect me. It is no big deal.
Previously, Zhong Yanyan and the others thought that although Nan Sheng was busy working at the institute, her benefits were quite good. Looking at it now, this was way beyond quite good. Going out with arranged sedans and an entourage of guards—this grand style rivaled that of a mayor on a trip.
Nan Feng ran over to stick close to Nan Sheng again. This child was smart and loved to act spoiled. Despite his tall stature, curling up next to his aunt made him look like a docile large dog.
Mingli, when you are transferred to the city after the new year, are you going to transfer Xiaofeng's school too?
Definitely. My father-in-law and mother-in-law will also move to the city to live with us. Sis, please persuade mom and dad to come along with us too!
Mingli had been very anxious about this matter. Their parents were getting old, and if they lived far away, he would not be able to take care of them if they got sick. But the old couple simply refused to agree.
Before Nan Sheng could speak, Nan Jingyu said, It is useless to have your sister persuade us. You are going to the city for work, but we would just be stuck indoors all day until our bones got stiff. It is much more interesting to stay in the village and grow vegetables.
A few years ago, Nan Sheng had wanted her parents to move to Jingdu. Later, when they stopped farming and she became too busy, the matter was shelved.
Mom, Dad, let me tell you something. I was thinking that since Nan Feng will be going to Jingdu for university, he might as well go to high school in Jingdu directly. Taking the exams locally will be easier. I am afraid I will be too busy with work to take care of him, so why do you two not come with me now? If you are afraid of being bored, you can open a shop and do some business to pass the time.
Nan Sheng guessed that her parents must have felt they could not help Mingli, so they did not want to go over and bother him. Especially with the in-laws there, they would feel even more uncomfortable. Mingli also knew their thoughts, which was why he repeatedly asked them to live together.
Now that she mentioned Nan Feng going to Jingdu with no one to take care of him, her parents would definitely be tempted. Besides, as people get older, they prefer to live closer to their children.
Sure enough, after hesitating for a moment, they started asking what kind of business they could do. We do not have any special skills!
Do something that is not tiring. Opening a small convenience store at the school gate is very profitable. You can sell pens, paper, notebooks, as well as snacks and drinks. If you are willing to go back with me, I will rent a storefront for you.
If Nan Sheng wanted to, her business acumen could probably build a commercial legend—just like Xiao Yi, who had already become a big boss in the south.
Considering her parents' age, they should not worry too much, so opening a small shop was just right. With customers coming in and out every day, they definitely would not be bored, and they could make money too.
Seeing that Father Nan and Mother Nan were about to agree, Mingli got anxious. Mom, Dad, if you think Jingdu is too far, you can also open a small shop in the city, right?
If he did not fight for it now, it would be difficult to see his parents in the future. His sister really did not play fair, snatching people away just like that.
Zhong Yanyan first glanced at her grandson, then looked at her daughter and Qiqi, and finally looked at her son with a look of disdain.
Why are you so insensible? Did you not hear your sister say she does not have time to look after Xiaofeng in Jingdu? Your dad and I are going to live in Jingdu. There is no need to discuss this anymore.
Nan Jingyu also expressed support for his wife's decision. As long as there was something to do and they were not causing trouble for their children, he was fine going anywhere.
Seeing that it was already three o'clock in the afternoon, Nan Sheng indicated that they needed to head back. Nan Feng still wanted to ride in the sedan and wanted to leave with them, but Mingli grabbed him and pulled him aside.
He threatened him with his eyes, Stay home and spend quality time with your grandparents!
When Lin Han and the others returned to Xiangyang Village, they caused another stir. After moving all the things into the house, they immediately went to the old family residence. Because the village was relatively safe and Lin Han was there, Nan Sheng did not have her guards follow her.
After hearing the news from the messenger, Eldest Brother Lin and the others had just stepped out of the courtyard when Nan Sheng's family arrived. Eldest Brother Lin said that the old man had fallen because the roof of the west room was leaking and he wanted to go up and fix it, but the ladder was not secured properly, wobbled violently, and caused him to fall.
He has been lying there for half a month without getting better, and he absolutely refuses to go to the hospital! The family did not know what to do with him.
Zhou Wei told them to go over and take a look first, and invited them to eat at her house that evening, as Fan Shuting was currently in no mood to prepare meals.
After entering the room, Nan Sheng clearly smelled the stench of urine. Fan Shuting looked very haggard, and Lin Guozheng, who was lying on the kang bed, did not even dare to move. He had also lost a lot of weight.
Nan Sheng immediately asked Qiqi to go back and get someone to drive the car over. She also asked Lin Han to fetch Eldest Brother Lin and his wife to help carry him. We cannot delay this any longer, he needs to go to the hospital right away. Grandma, change the old man into some clean clothes first.
Lin Guozheng said weakly, Second daughter-in-law, there is no need. I will just rest like this. I will live for however many days I have left.
Nan Sheng did not give him any face. Having people wait on you every day might be comfortable for you, but do you not consider other people's situations? If you are sick and do not go to the hospital for treatment, will just enduring it at home make you better? I think you are really getting old and your brain is not working properly anymore!
Lin Guozheng had been sickly these past few days, looking as if he did not have long to live. Anyone who saw him had to coax and plead with him. But as soon as Nan Sheng came back and scolded him, he did not dare utter a peep. He did not dare say he would not get treated anymore, afraid he would just get scolded again.
Seeing that her husband was willing to receive medical treatment, Fan Shuting's face lit up with energy, and she immediately started changing his clothes. During the process, Lin Guozheng was in immense pain, but Nan Sheng did not feel sorry for him at all; he had brought it entirely upon himself.