Chapter 299: Family Dynamics

Zhu Qiyu, observing Wang Deshan’s discontented expression, coldly remarked, “Haha, why should I rely on them? I have sons and daughters. If I can’t rely on my own children, how can I count on my grandchildren?”

Her words left Wang Deshan speechless, though he couldn’t quite argue against her logic. He sighed, lighting his pipe, unable to find a retort.

With the house quiet again, Zhu Qiyu thought of her two daughters, expecting them to arrive in the next few days.

After a successful round of gathering treats, Mingyuan’s group returned with plenty of food. They handed Minggui over as they passed by the old house. Reluctantly, Minggui bid them farewell, promising, “Brothers, I’ll come play with you after lunch.”

During lunch at the Wang household, they were surprised to see Minggui rush into the courtyard, clutching his backpack.

“Third Aunt, I’m here!” Minggui announced, breathless from his haste.

At this moment, Zhang Lan couldn’t help but marvel at the mysterious bond of kinship. Despite meeting their son only once, Minggui had already integrated so well with their children.

Quickly getting off the kang, Zhang Lan embraced the flushed little boy who had rushed in. “Minggui, have you eaten?”

All eyes turned to the rosy-cheeked young boy.

Grinning widely, his pearly white teeth shining, Minggui replied, “Third Aunt, I ate half and came running. I wanted to have your delicious food. Oh, and here are some candies given to me this morning. I brought them for my older siblings to enjoy.”

The child emptied the candies from his backpack onto the kang, even Wang Qian was moved by the gesture, recognizing Minggui as a genuinely good child.

Wang Zhenhe cheerfully fetched a set of utensils. “Young man, you’ve got good taste, knowing that Third Aunt’s cooking is delicious. Eat plenty here, and when you’re at Uncle’s place, feel free to ask for whatever you want.”

Sitting beside Mingyuan and Wang Qian, Minggui started selecting dishes, “Sis, I’d like some vegetables. My grandma says kids should eat lots of greens.”

Minggui wasn’t just interested in meat dishes; he preferred vegetables with a hint of green, something he wasn’t accustomed to seeing on their family table.

Wang Qian, amused by her cousin’s choice, added some green vegetables and pinched his tender cheeks. “Well done, knowing the importance of a balanced diet. Keep it up.”

Zhang Lan brought a glass of juice for Minggui. “Minggui, have some of this. It balances out the oiliness, ensuring you feel satisfied.”

Enjoying the care and attention of the family, Minggui had a comfortable and fulfilling meal. Before leaving, Zhang Lan filled a bottle with juice for him to take home, knowing the child’s fondness for it. Before departing, Wang Qian informed her cousin that they were visiting their grandmother’s house the next day and advised him not to come over, lest he find an empty house.

The earnest child replied, “Sis, I am also going to Grandma’s house tomorrow. I don’t know if I’ll be back, but if I return, I’ll come play with you.”

The next day, Wang Zhenhe led the family to his father-in-law’s house. Meanwhile, Wang Zhenjiang’s family awaited their youngest brother’s arrival. However, they waited in vain, and by the time they went to Wang Zhenhe’s family, the house was empty, with no sign of anyone around.

Wang Zhenjiang, feeling frustrated, turned to find his eldest brother, only to be intercepted by Wang Juan. “Second Brother, what’s got into you? I heard that you have guests at home today. Why are you out and about instead of entertaining your guest?”

With a smirk, Wang Zhenjiang replied, “Sister-in-law, I just wanted my daughter-in-law and the elders to meet.”

Wang Juan, not one to mince words with her second younger brother-in-law, retorted, “Second brother, what are you talking about? We all know your daughter-in-law. If you’re inviting someone from afar, we could visit. But for  us, who are already acquainted with your daughter-in-law, what’s the point of us coming over? Besides, our daughter-in-law is also here today. Why don’t you come to our house instead? It might be beneficial for your eldest nephew. What do you think?”

Wang Zhenjiang found himself in an awkward spot, having not invited anyone and now being teased by Wang Juan. He chuckled awkwardly, “Sister-in-law, there’s no need for us to meet since we’re already familiar with each other. Let’s not play games.”

Leaning against the door, Wang Juan, with a smile, quipped, “Second Brother, you’re right. We see your daughter-in-law almost every day. There’s no point in a formal visit, especially on such a festive day. We all remember what your daughter-in-law wore when she was three years old. Do I really need to come over?”

As they heard voices outside, Wang Zhenhai stepped out and apologized to his second brother, “Sorry, Second Brother. We have guests today, and we know your daughter-in-law as well. No need for us to meet. I have to go to Mom’s place. I won’t keep you.”

Feeling somewhat embarrassed by his brother’s direct dismissal, Wang Zhenjiang couldn’t help but reflect on his wife’s unrealistic expectations. He couldn’t fathom why she believed those few impoverished individuals could provide a substantial dowry.

Han Cui, upon seeing her husband return, hurriedly inquired, “How did it go? Did you manage to invite everyone over?”

Wang Zhenjiang, with a hint of annoyance, glanced at the women in the house and replied, “Invite who? It was your idea, and they are all as clever as rabbits. Third brother’s family left, and oldest brother family said they also have guest.”

Feeling somewhat resentful, Han Cui argued, “How is my idea faulty? Their family has several children. Just accommodating them would cost us a lot. We only have two children. It’s only fair they contribute financially. They accuse me of being calculating, but they are the real schemers.”

Disappointed that her plan didn’t work out, Han Cui continued, “Zhenjiang, why don’t we have the meal and then have the children take their partners to their grandmother’s house? It could help us secure some funds. Even if the old lady doesn’t give money, our reputation will improve.”

Wang Zhenjiang, initially frustrated, found his wife’s suggestion quite reasonable. “I agree. Let’s go with that plan.”

Far from the manipulation at home, Wang Zhenhe’s family arrived at his father-in-law’s house, where Zhang Hua and the others were already busy cooking in the kitchen.

“Mom, Auntie’s family is here,” Qu Wan called out excitedly from the kitchen, seeing the visitors approaching.

As Qu Wan grew older, she began to appreciate the remarkable qualities of her aunt’s children, especially after the resolution of the Zhou Ping incident. She admired how her aunt’s children managed to solve a situation that even her mother couldn’t handle. Considering her future marriage, she believed in building strong relationships with her cousins. With their support, she felt more empowered to handle any challenges that might come her way.

Everyone exchanged greetings upon meeting, with warm welcomes extended. “Auntie, you’re here! Must have been chilly outside. Come in quickly, the kang is nice and warm,” she greeted warmly.

Qu Wan took the items from Zhang Lan’s hands and ushered Wang Qian and the others inside.

Happily, Geng Lianhua scrutinized her eldest grandson. “Ah, Mingcheng is almost an adult now. Have you been in touch with your uncle recently? He didn’t come back for the New Year. I can’t shake this worry from my heart.”

Thinking of her eldest son upon seeing Mingcheng, Geng Lianhua expressed her concerns. Mingcheng reassured her, “Grandma, Uncle is doing well. He’s off training with Grandpa Wu and the others. He should be back by spring to visit you. Don’t worry too much; I’m sure Uncle is thinking of you too.”

Mingcheng tactfully avoided mentioning Zhang Weiguo’s injury, presuming that his silence in letters meant that the injury was still healing.

During the meal, Wang Zhenhe mentioned an upcoming trip and sought help from his brother-in-law. However, Geng Lianhua intervened, “Forget it. Your brother-in-law’s parents are at his place. It’s not ideal to be short-handed at home. I’ll go help out. Let your brother-in-law handle the deliveries. As for the motorcycle, have Qu Kai teach his dad how to ride it. Once that’s settled, give your brother-in-law some extra money for his hard work.”

The elderly lady offering to help was a welcome relief, and Wang Zhenhe readily agreed.

Zhang Lan remembered something important. “Sis, isn’t it better if your in-laws don’t rely on others for care? Can’t you use the retirement funds? If you start a business in the future, you won’t be able to leave your responsibilities at home.”

Thinking about this issue, Zhang Hua also expressed concern, “Rely on them? If we could depend on them, we wouldn’t be this burdened. They’re pleasant during meals but indifferent afterward. Taking care of two elderly people drains us. It’s a thoughtful gesture on our part.”

Furthermore, Zhang Hua shared news about a potential match for her daughter Qu Wan. “Recently, there’s a proposal for Qu Wan. The suitor seems promising, vibrant, and skilled in carpentry. Unfortunately, he’s an only child. His father passed away a few years ago while working on a construction project. It’s just him and his widowed mother. However, he’s said to be very filial. If they are careful in their marriage, the match seems suitable.”

Pleased with the prospective groom’s qualities, Zhang Lan remarked, “Sis, the suitor sounds excellent. Marrying someone skilled ensures stability and security.”

Regarding the potential engagement, Zhang Hua happily shared, “After the New Year, the engagement will be settled. Qu Wan is getting older, so we must hurry. As for our son, let him earn money steadily. Once he has saved enough, we will find a suitable match for him. Finding a partner won’t be a problem for our son.”

Listening to the conversation between her mother and aunt, Wang Qian couldn’t help but feel uneasy about a widowed mother raising a son. “Aunt, aren’t there better suitors available? If the son is raised by a widowed mother and is filial, what if there are conflicts with the mother-in-law in the future? Who will he support?”

Zhang Hua, after a moment of reflection, responded, “It’s not a problem. Whoever is right will be supported. I’m not unreasonable. I adore my child, but I’m willing to admit my mistakes if needed. There’s no need to doubt this. Besides, with only one child in the family, your cousin might receive the same affection as a cherished daughter.”