Chapter 43: Decision to dig a well

The pig’s head, having braised for over four hours, was tender and a rich, dark brown color. Jiang Li tasted it; it was delicious. She decided to braise some large intestines next; they were just as good braised as stir-fried.  She turned off the heat. Bai Ziyong and Mu Jingxun quickly rinsed the rice and vegetables.

 After the rice started steaming, Jiang Li stir-fried the vegetables—dry-fried green beans with minced meat. She also made a tomato and egg soup. She planned to buy seaweed and dried shrimp next time she went to town to add variety to the soups.

 After preparing the vegetables, Jiang Li sliced a large bowl of pig’s head meat.  Mu Jingxun and Bai Ziyong were big eaters; even a second bowl wouldn’t be enough.

 She also made a dipping sauce; the pig’s head was delicious on its own, but even better with the sauce.  Mu Jingxun and Bai Ziyong eagerly started eating. The aroma was incredible; the taste was even better.

They ate happily, barely speaking. Jiang Li thought they were big foodies.  Mu Jingxun washed the dishes, and Bai Ziyong went to fetch water. Their water jar was almost empty. Besides filling his own jar, he asked Jiang Li, “Sister Li, do you need water? Should I fill yours too?” Jiang Li had some water left. “Yes, please fill mine too.” “Okay.”  Bai Ziyong, happy after the meal, whistled as he went to fetch water.

Sun Wenwen watched him, thoughtful.  She remembered Bai Ziyong being injured by a wild boar in her past life, resulting in permanent disability, and being sent back to the city.  This time, it hadn’t happened.  She wondered if she’d misremembered or if something had changed things.  This time, Jiang Li existed. 

She glared at Jiang Li’s room. She would deal with her soon. After Bai Ziyong left, Jiang Li thought about getting a well.  Fetching water was troublesome.  They would be in the countryside for several years before returning to the city.  A well would be more convenient.

She discussed it with the other educated youths.  If everyone contributed, it would cost only a few cents per person.

 But many couldn’t afford it and preferred to fetch water. Jiang Li didn’t expect them to contribute; she would pay if necessary. Besides Mu Jingxun and Bai Ziyong, another educated youth, Chu Ling, agreed to contribute.

 They would share the cost.  Jiang Li informed the others that they would have priority access to the well. The others agreed. Jiang Li went to Li Changping to discuss the well. Wu Meixia saw her and asked, “Jiang Zhiqing, are you here to see your team leader? Did something happen?”

Jiang Li nodded. “Yes, Aunt, I need his help.” Wu Meixia shouted. Jiang Li’s ears hurt.  Li Changping came out. Wu Meixia said, “Jiang Zhiqing needs your help.” Li Changping asked, “Jiang Zhiqing, what’s up?” “Captain, I want a well in the educated youth quarters. Can you help me find workers?” Li Changping readily agreed.

“No problem. I’ll arrange it.” Jiang Li thanked him and gave him some candy. “Captain, this is for your children.” Li Changping refused. “Jiang Zhiqing, it’s a small matter. You don’t need to be so polite.  Candy is expensive; keep it.”

 Jiang Li insisted, leaving before he could refuse.