Lying on the thick mattress, Xie Jinghao was surrounded by several children sitting in an orderly and quiet manner. Knowing they were headed to the county to seek medical attention for her, the children behaved exceptionally well.

Shen Meng pulled a few Golden Monkey milk candies from her bag and handed one to each child.

“Don’t be scared. Your third aunt isn’t seriously ill. We’re just going to the county for a check-up. Xiao Gang, don’t worry. Your mother is fine. Later, I’ll take you to the state-run restaurant for some meat-filled buns, alright?”

Xiao Gang’s eyes lit up at the mention of meat buns, looking at her expectantly. He didn’t understand much about the state-run restaurant but remembered the delicious, juicy buns she had made for him before. He dreamed of having another one.

“Okay, thank you, Aunt.”

“Eldest Sister-in-law, don’t spoil him. We need to hurry back. Cooking at home is the same. Things are expensive in the county, and eating at a state-run restaurant requires food coupons. Money doesn’t come easy,” Xie Jinghao chided.

Shen Meng patted her shoulder and said, “Jinghao, it’s rare for us to come here. Let’s not discuss money now. The main concern is your baby. After you gave birth to Xiao Gang, your body suffered. For this delivery, it’s safer to give birth in the hospital. Home births are unsanitary and risky.”

Hearing this, Xie Jinghao sat up hastily, only to feel a sharp pain in her belly from the sudden movement.

“Hiss—But how can that work? Giving birth in a hospital costs so much. Father and Mother wouldn’t agree to spend that kind of money, and Jiasheng works so hard at the mine, barely making enough each month. I—”

“What’s more important, your life and your baby’s or money? Xie Jinghao, if you don’t take care of yourself, how can you expect others to? If something goes wrong during childbirth, it’ll be Xiao Gang who suffers. What happens if your husband remarries? How will Xiao Gang live then?”

Xie Jinghao’s attempt to argue faltered. She glanced at Lu Mingyang and the other children, then at Shen Meng. Finally, she nodded.

“Alright, Eldest Sister-in-law. Let’s hear what the doctor says when we get there.”

Shen Meng: “…”

What’s with that look? Even though she was a stepmother, she was a good one—no bullying children here.

Uncle Guai, driving the cart at the front, listened to the women’s conversation behind him. His perception of Shen Meng deepened. She seemed so different from the person he initially thought she was. He realized he had been too narrow-minded—after all, Lu Zhenping was an outstanding man. How could the woman he chose be any less so?

Before long, the group arrived at the county hospital. Shen Meng had planned to take Xie Jinghao to the doctor alone, but the children also got off the ox cart and followed them like a string of grapes.

Their young faces were filled with curiosity and nervousness, melting Shen Meng’s heart.

“How about this? Let’s all go together.”

“Alright, Mother, we can help!”

“Xiao Kai can help too. Xiao Kai will carry Mother’s bag!”

The children eagerly lent a hand, either holding Shen Meng’s bag or supporting Xie Jinghao. Five children surrounded the two women, obedient and helpful. Who could refuse them?

“Alright, alright, let’s go together. This is a hospital, so you must stay quiet once we’re inside. Uncle Guai, please wait for us outside. We’ll be out soon.”

“No rush. Take your time with the check-up. Let the ox rest for a while, ha!” Uncle Guai chuckled, clearly concerned about the hardworking animal.

“Alright!”

Xie Jinghao felt a little guilty. In the production team, oxen were precious, and now the animal had been used for her. Shen Meng was spending money and effort, and even the team’s ox had been burdened. Determined, she silently vowed to repay her sister-in-law’s kindness after giving birth, no matter what.

The gynecologist, a woman in her forties, had reportedly worked in a major city before returning to serve her hometown. Shen Meng greatly respected such dedication.

The doctor, surnamed Cheng, spoke gently and examined Xie Jinghao thoroughly. When the cold instrument touched her, Xie Jinghao flinched uncomfortably and instinctively searched for Shen Meng, only to find herself alone with the doctor and nurse.

Meanwhile, Shen Meng, outside with the children, attracted curious stares from doctors, nurses, and patients.

“My goodness, this young woman is amazing. She’s so young and already has five kids—so blessed!”

“Exactly. And all boys, too. So enviable!”

“If my daughter-in-law were like her, I’d treat her like a queen. Slim waist, wide hips—the perfect childbearing figure!”

Shen Meng’s lips twitched. She turned away, but the children, hearing the chatter, stared at her intently from head to toe.

“What are you looking at, little brats? Stop staring and don’t listen to nonsense!”

“Giggle!”

“Hehehe!”

“Mother’s embarrassed!” Lu Mingkai teased, swinging his legs from a bench.

Shen Meng: “…”

Sometimes, kids could be downright annoying.

“Is the family member here?”

Doctor Cheng’s voice was a welcome relief from the awkwardness. Shen Meng quickly responded, “Yes, Doctor Cheng. How is my sister-in-law’s condition?”

Doctor Cheng frowned at the report, staying silent for a moment.

Xie Jinghao nervously clenched her clothes and glanced at Shen Meng, who gently patted her hand in reassurance.

“The baby is developing well, but you’ve strained your pregnancy. Given the damage from your previous childbirth, I recommend delivering in a hospital. You may even need a C-section.”

“What? A C-section? Doctor, my first baby was born naturally. I should be fine to deliver naturally again, right?” The thought of a surgical incision terrified her.

“Don’t worry. This is for your safety. Discuss it with your family. I’ll prescribe some medication for you to take at home. If you feel unwell, come back immediately.”

“Thank you, Doctor.”

Xie Jinghao thanked her nervously and followed Shen Meng out of the office, her face full of worry. Shen Meng remained silent, having already said her piece on the way there.

As they walked out, a plump woman entered the office, loudly asking, “Yufen, did you find out for me? Do you know anyone who can help us buy a radio? Your nephew is getting married soon, and if we don’t get one, the bride’s family might back out!”

Shen Meng paused mid-step, her eyes lighting up.

Here’s a chance to make some money!