Chapter 2: Compensate with a Good One

Old Lady Lu glanced at her second son, hesitating, “Can we discuss this again? The one you were supposed to marry is the eldest. We can’t just handle things this way. If word gets out, it’ll sound terrible.”

Fang Yuan’s face darkened. She threw a red double-happiness iron tray at Lu Eldest, snapping, “That disgraceful Lu Eldest, shameless scoundrel—he’s not even worthy to be mentioned in the same breath as me!”

The Lu family watched as the tray, emblazoned with the double-happiness symbol, smacked right into Lu Eldest’s nose, catching him off guard and making his nose bleed.

Lu Eldest’s face had just been scratched, and now his nose was bleeding from the blow. He looked truly pitiful and miserable. The scene was so brutal that the Lu parents couldn’t bear to watch.

This girl was unreasonable—she’d start swinging as soon as she spoke. She was clearly not the same kind of person as the Lu family.

But Old Lady Lu could see the bigger picture: if Fang Yuan, a young woman, was already this fierce, what about her brothers, who were all famous for their tempers? Just thinking about it made Old Lady Lu’s legs go weak. Her lips quivered as she fought back tears.

Fang Yuan said, “Don’t think your college student son is any better than me. Book-smart people are cunning and can’t handle daily life. I’m the one taking the risk here. Besides, whether it’s a college student or a grade-schooler, they’re all just students—they can’t earn money or support a family.”

Old Lady Lu fell silent. Her second son was still in school, and for the next three to five years, he’d only be spending, not earning.

Fang Yuan glanced at Lu Second, “And look at this sour face—no joy at all. I’m not even complaining about the bad luck.”

A perfectly good college student, and yet he was being rejected like this. Lu Second was so angry he nearly fainted.

If it weren’t obvious that this girl was unreasonable, he’d have argued with her right then and there.

After Fang Yuan finished speaking, she just stood there, staring at the Lu family. Her aura was so overwhelming that everyone in the room was cowed into silence.

She’d drawn the line. How to resolve this? That was up to them to figure out.

The Lu family said nothing. This was a big deal—they couldn’t bear to see their “phoenix egg” (their prized son) snatched away like this.

But thinking of the Fang family, their reputation in the village, and their five famously tough sons, the Lus didn’t dare voice any objections.

Most importantly, the Lus were in the wrong. What Lu Eldest had done was truly shameful. And Fang Yuan was right—supporting a college student was expensive, something the Lus had already considered.

At this point, Lu Eldest should have stepped up to talk to Fang Yuan, apologize, and make amends. But he didn’t have the guts. Lu Second, for his part, looked down on his older brother.

Fang Yuan’s face darkened further. “Can’t any of you even say a word?” She kicked the already overturned table again. “Did you hear me or not?”

Just then, a vegetable bowl flew past Old Lady Lu’s ear.

Old Lady Lu instinctively covered her nose and quickly said, “We understand. We’ll compensate you with a man. Second—our second son is good, he has integrity and decency. He’ll make it up to you. Only he is worthy of you.”

What a disaster—how did they end up with a woman like this at their door? Second son was their “phoenix egg.” After she finished, Old Lady Lu grabbed her lower lip, looking like she was about to cry.

Old Man Lu looked at his wife, stammering for a long time without saying a word. Would this really work? His wife always bullied the weak and feared the strong, but she sure changed her tune quickly.

But Second son’s schooling would cost money, and if they spent all their savings on a wedding, there’d be nothing left. Even if Lu Second and Fang Yuan weren’t a perfect match, if they really got married, at least they’d have some support.

The Fang family was well-off. That was what Old Man Lu was thinking, so he didn’t object.

Fang Yuan nodded—finally, something that sounded reasonable.

She scrutinized Lu Second, who was standing by the door. Still, she thought, he didn’t look sturdy—probably even less useful than he looked.

Lu Second, standing by the door, was already dumbfounded. What did this have to do with him? It was Lu Eldest who caused all the trouble—why should he be the one to clean up the mess?

And listening to his mother—“has integrity, has decency”—was she praising him or insulting Lu Eldest?

His parents were so unreliable. How could they just go along with this wild girl’s way of thinking?

The most dissatisfied was Lu Eldest. He was the one getting married, but who had asked his opinion? Covering his nose, he protested, “Fang Yuan, Mom, what are you talking about? I don’t agree.”

If word got out, wouldn’t that be utterly humiliating?

Li Meng covered her face, whining, “Brother Feng, are you still thinking about this woman? I’m pregnant with your child, Brother Feng.”

Fang Yuan turned away, refusing to look at these two shameless people—it was an eyesore.

Old Lady Lu pulled her eldest son, sobbing, “But what else can we do? How can our family make it up to Fang Yuan? Eldest, Fang Yuan is right—you behaved disgracefully. In all the generations of the Lu family, no one’s ever done something like this.”

Old Lady Lu thought, as long as Fang Yuan wasn’t angry and didn’t want Lu Eldest, it didn’t matter if her eldest was belittled.

This girl was hot-tempered, overbearing, and unreasonable—they couldn’t afford to offend her. Most importantly, they were in the wrong, and it was shameful.

Fang Yuan snorted coldly, almost kicking Lu Eldest again, her attitude fierce: “What’s it got to do with a man like you who doesn’t know how to behave? Who cares what you have to say?”

Then she turned to the Lu family: “Kick that woman and this man out. As long as I’m in this house, I don’t want to see them.”

She was fiercer than a bandit.

Lu Second almost laughed in exasperation. Things hadn’t even started yet, and this woman was already acting like she ruled the house.

Of course, he didn’t want to see Lu Eldest, that useless thing, or Li Meng, that seductive woman, either. Kicking them out sounded great.

Old Lady Lu was in a bind. They might be disgraceful, but they were still her son and daughter-in-law. Where could she kick them out to? Scolding them was one thing, but actually kicking them out—she couldn’t bring herself to do it.

Lu Feng was about to explode. He stood up, rubbing his butt and hopping around. “This is my house. I’m the eldest son. Don’t go too far!”

Fang Yuan had no respect for men like him. If the matchmaker hadn’t talked him up so much, she’d never have considered such second-hand goods. “Your house? You think you deserve it?”

Old Man Lu timidly raised his hand, indicating he wanted to speak. Fang Yuan looked over. “Say what you want to say.”

Old Man Lu managed, “Even if… even if we compensate, he’s still my son.”

Lu Second looked at his father’s cowardice and ground his back teeth—how could he be so scared?

Fang Yuan’s face darkened, immediately displeased. “So you still want to let these two shameless people stay in the family? Let them ruin your family’s reputation?”

Old Man Lu fell silent. It really was embarrassing. After today, the Lu family wouldn’t be able to hold their heads up in the village.

Second son was a scholar, promising, and cared about his reputation. They couldn’t let the whole family be shamed. Old Man Lu’s mind was spinning with worries.

Old Lady Lu, though afraid of Fang Yuan, still weakly protested, “But he’s still my son.”

Fang Yuan was dissatisfied with her in-laws’ refusal to distinguish right from wrong. “It’s either me or him. If you want to keep a disgraceful son and a shameless daughter-in-law, I won’t stick around to be humiliated with you. So what’s it going to be?”

The last time Fang Yuan asked “what’s it going to be,” they lost their “phoenix egg.” Now, hearing her say it again, the Lu couple shivered instinctively.

Old Man Lu and Old Lady Lu really didn’t know what to do. They stared at Fang Yuan, waiting for her to speak.

And with the family’s circumstances as they were, if things were better, would they have let Lu Eldest marry a wild girl from the next village?

Li Meng didn’t want to be kicked out. Ideally, she wanted this woman gone instead, so she could stay in the Lu family. This was her chance to perform.

Rolling her eyes, she put herself in the position of a Lu family member and spoke up: “You’re so unreasonable. When you marry a chicken, you follow the chicken; when you marry a dog, you follow the dog. The Lu family is already being generous letting you stay. You’re an unwanted woman. If you don’t want to stay, then leave. No one’s stopping you.”

Fang Yuan glanced at Li Meng, raising an eyebrow with utter disdain. “What’s it got to do with you? If I hear you yapping again, believe me, I’ll slap you.”

Li Meng shrank back in fear. “You’re so unreasonable! Then what do you want? I’m not leaving. Without Lu Feng, I don’t want to live.”

Fang Yuan snorted, swept her gaze around the shabby house, and said to the Lu parents, “Fine. If they won’t leave, and you won’t make them, then let’s split the family.”"

"**Chapter 3: It’s Not That Simple**

Old Man Lu had just married two daughters-in-law into the family, and there was still a youngest son who hadn’t found a wife yet. He really hadn’t thought about splitting up the family, but it wasn’t entirely out of the question.

He spoke to Fang Yuan in a tentative tone, “Isn’t this a bit inappropriate?”

Fang Yuan was blunt and decisive. “I refuse to live with someone so lacking in morals. I have my pride.”

Second Brother Lu shot her a glance, almost blurting out, “Pride? I don’t see it.”

Luckily, he managed to swallow the words before they escaped. Otherwise, he’d definitely have angered this female fiend.

Lu Feng was left red-faced by her repeated accusations of immorality, feeling like she was calling him shameless at every turn. “Why should you get to decide? This is the Lu family—it’s not your place to call the shots.”

Fang Yuan didn’t even pause to think before retorting, “Because you’re immoral, unrestrained, and a liar who tricked me into marriage. Because your Lu family doesn’t do things properly.”

Then she added, “Does your family really want someone like you, so lacking in morals, to be in charge and drag the whole family’s reputation through the mud?”

Old Man Lu nodded along with Fang Yuan’s words. He really couldn’t let his muddle-headed eldest son take charge. He couldn’t let the whole family be shamed together.

Old Lady Lu tried to defend herself in a small voice, “Our second son is promising—he’s a phoenix, a golden phoenix. We’re giving him to you, so you’re not losing out.”

Fang Yuan replied, “A phoenix? I don’t see it. He’s more like a little chick, and he’s still in school. Doesn’t that cost money? Where exactly am I getting the better end of this deal?”

Second Brother Lu was so angry he nearly ground his teeth to dust. This woman really had a sharp tongue.

The thing was, they were already talking about splitting the family, and no one had even asked his opinion. His biggest regret now was ever getting involved in this mess.

Old Man Lu looked at his second son. He hadn’t even agreed to give him to this she-devil yet. His second son was good-looking, a student, and hadn’t been engaged before—he’d have no trouble finding a wife.

But seeing Fang Yuan’s domineering stance and thinking of the Fang family’s reputation for being tough, Old Man Lu couldn’t bear to send his son into the tiger’s den.

Even though the family was short on money, if they tightened their belts, they could still support their son through school. He tried to reason with Fang Yuan, “About your engagement to our second son, can’t we talk it over?”

Fang Yuan glanced around at the shabby home, chin held high. “Do you have anything more valuable to offer me? Or do you just think our Fang family is easy to push around?”

Old Man Lu looked at his second son and lowered his head. There really wasn’t anything more valuable in the house.

The main thing was, this girl was too fierce, and the Fang family really wasn’t easy to deal with. Their honest family had never faced anything like this before.

Fang Yuan continued, “Your family sent a matchmaker to trick me into marrying your son, and on the wedding day, you brought in another woman to disgust me. What, do you think I’m easy to bully? Go ask around—when has Fang Yuan ever been taken advantage of?”

No need to ask. The Fang brothers could stomp their feet and make the whole village tremble.

Old Man Lu was so ashamed he didn’t dare look at his second son. “Our second son is hardworking, good-looking, and educated—he’s a better match for you, Fang Yuan. It’s the eldest who isn’t worthy of you.”

The couple immediately changed their tune, giving up any resistance.

Old Man Lu comforted himself: if this marriage went through, at least Second Brother would have the Fang family’s support. That wasn’t so bad.

Fang Yuan acknowledged this much. She glanced at Second Brother Lu, not seeing much to praise. “At least you’re more decent than your eldest brother.” That was about it.

Second Brother Lu felt like a piece of meat on the chopping block, being picked over and judged.

Fang Yuan snorted coldly. She was exhausted from the day and didn’t want to see those two troublemakers anymore. “Give us the old house. Any objections?”

Old Man Lu, relieved that he wouldn’t have to move out himself, quickly agreed in the face of this female tyrant. “No objections, none at all. It’s just a pity for you, Fang Yuan.”

Fang Yuan looked at Old Lady Lu, who quickly shook her head. “No, no objections. As long as you don’t feel wronged, Fang Yuan.”

If Old Lady Lu weren’t a little afraid of Fang Yuan and still worried about her eldest son, she’d actually prefer to have the eldest and that shameless woman move out together. Otherwise, it’d be hard for the youngest to find a wife in the future.

The old couple didn’t object, and since it wasn’t the eldest who had to move out, he didn’t object either. Not that his opinion mattered—the decision was made.

Fang Yuan looked at the man standing by the door with dissatisfaction. “What are you staring at? Go clean up the old house. Don’t you have any sense? And you call yourself a college student?”

Second Brother Lu was about to speak, but Old Man Lu pulled him aside. “Son, I’m sorry. Today, it’s our family that’s at fault. We can’t split your brother in two to make things fair.”

The key was, Fang Yuan had no interest in the eldest now, and they didn’t dare offend the Fang family behind her.

Lu’s third son, who had come in with Second Brother, had watched the whole thing unfold and knew this woman was tough. He started to cry. “Second Brother, just… just go along with it.”

Otherwise, he was afraid the female bandit would pick him to be the groom—she’d already looked him over several times, and he was sturdier than his second brother.

Old Lady Lu went over and pulled her second son aside, face full of guilt. “Second son, please just take that woman and leave. Don’t let her yell at me anymore—she’s scary.”

Then she added, “You have to get married even if you’re in college. Sooner or later, it has to happen. This way is fine.”

Second Brother Lu was so angry he was shaking. He’d only come in to break up the fight, and now he’d gotten himself trapped. He knew his parents were weak and indecisive, but he hadn’t expected things to go this far.

He laughed bitterly. “You’ve made up your minds, then? Once this marriage is set, there’s no backing out. And I’m done cleaning up my brother’s messes. For the sake of the eldest, you’ve thrown away the family’s money, and now you’re throwing away your son too.”

Old Lady Lu choked back tears. “What else could we do? Who knew your brother would cause all this?”

She glanced at Fang Yuan. “We’ve thought it through. We won’t bother you in the future.” That woman was too much to handle—they wouldn’t dare ask Second Brother’s family for help again.

Old Man Lu had to say something, showing a bit of cunning by taking a stand. “Second son, your brother was wrong, and he shouldn’t have dragged you into this. But we can’t let people talk behind our backs, and we can’t let Fang Yuan down.”

Second Brother Lu felt like he’d been devoured by this female demon today, but there was nothing more to say. He was utterly disheartened.

With parents like these and a family like this, why should he stand up and take responsibility? Let the female demon make a scene. This family deserved it.

He turned to leave, but the female demon called out, “Take all the stuff on the floor with you.”

Everyone looked down. There was only one luggage roll, but it looked new. If he remembered right, it belonged to Li Meng.

Second Brother Lu was a bit confused. Was this woman so angry she couldn’t tell whose things were whose?

Li Meng panicked and rushed over to protect her luggage. “This is all mine!”

Fang Yuan sneered and pulled Li Meng aside. “Yours? You think you can just get away with stealing someone’s man? Want to argue about it?”

Li Meng was furious. How did she end up dealing with someone like this? “How can you be like this? You’re a bandit! This is robbery!”

Fang Yuan replied, “Compared to what you did, what’s this? Is there any crime worse than stealing someone else’s man?”

---

*New book uploaded—please support!*"

"Chapter 4: Conquest by Force, Assisted by Words

The onlooking members of the Lu family stared wide-eyed. Fang Yuan’s domineering attitude and utter disregard for reason had finally made the Lu family see her true colors. She showed no guilt whatsoever as she snatched what she wanted.

To match her words, Fang Yuan kicked the luggage straight to the doorway, completely ignoring whatever Li Meng was saying.

Fang Yuan looked up at the Lu family’s second son, her eyes full of disdain. “What are you staring at? Pick up your things and take them back.”

Just like that? Take them back? Back where? Why does she order me around so easily?

Even the previously dejected Second Lu felt something different. This fierce woman was no slouch when it came to grabbing things.

Fang Yuan didn’t bother considering anyone else’s feelings. She continued instructing Second Lu, “And my dowry—find a cart, load everything up, and take it away.”

She had no intention of staying in this place, breathing the same air as these two people. Too polluted.

Lu family’s third son, terrified Fang Yuan might set her sights on him, quickly jumped in to help, eager to curry favor. “I’ll help Second Sister-in-law move the dowry.”

Just like that, she became “Second Sister-in-law,” and Second Lu was simply swept along by the whole family.

Second Lu thought to himself, So this so-called “phoenix egg” isn’t worth much after all—not in this family.

Fang Yuan glanced at Third Lu, then pointed around the room. “This, this, and this—all of it goes.”

The whole family’s eyes followed Fang Yuan’s finger in a circle. Once all those things were taken, there’d be almost nothing left.

Lu’s mother was a bit reluctant to part with the new thermos. There were still things in the room they used daily, things put in the bridal chamber just for show. She opened her mouth, “But…”

Fang Yuan shot her a look, and Lu’s mother immediately shut up. When they first met, this girl seemed so nice—who knew she’d turn on them in a heartbeat? And even get physical.

Second Lu watched his parents, who wanted to speak but didn’t dare, and for some reason felt a strange sense of satisfaction having someone like Fang Yuan holding things down.

All his past nagging had never been as effective as a single look from Fang Yuan.

On the other side, Li Meng, watching the “female fiend” sit back down on the kang, was shaking with rage. “Why are you sitting down? You’ve already taken everything—why aren’t you leaving?”

Fang Yuan replied, “I married into your family. You think I can just leave whenever you say so? Do you think I’m as worthless as you?”

Then she added, “Oh, right—you were just a freebie for the Lu family.”

Li Meng’s face turned green with embarrassment. This woman’s mouth was vicious.

She glanced at Lu Feng, thinking of the good days to come, gritting her teeth and holding on. Seeing the Lu parents weren’t speaking up for her, Li Meng turned to Lu Feng, whining, “Brother Feng, look at how she’s bullying me. What kind of woman is this?”

Lu Feng squatted on the floor, not wanting to speak. How did things get to this point? Everything had happened so fast he hadn’t even had time to think—he’d been swapped in a marriage exchange.

Honestly, it was all Li Meng’s doing. Now she was clinging to him, but where was she before? Lu Feng still remembered how she’d pressured him when they broke off the engagement.

The whole family watched as Second Lu packed up the things Fang Yuan wanted, with Third Lu helping. Anything Fang Yuan set her eyes on, she had them take away.

Truth be told, Second Lu had grown up in this family and not a single thing in the house truly belonged to him.

Now, being allowed to take whatever he wanted, while Lu Feng and that woman could only watch and stomp their feet, he felt a strange satisfaction.

At first, he was just going along to appease Fang Yuan, but as he kept packing, he started to feel genuinely good about it.

Fang Yuan sat alone on the kang, while the entire Lu family stood on the floor, with Second Lu and Third Lu scurrying around, clearing out the house under her direction.

The scene looked just like bandits raiding a village.

By the time Second Lu and Third Lu carried everything out, the room was almost empty—even the new bedding on the kang was gone.

Lu’s mother, heart aching, suddenly had a strange realization—she could even praise her second daughter-in-law for being so capable at managing a household.

After all, the things weren’t going to outsiders; they were just being moved to the old house, still within the family. No real difference.

Thinking this way, Lu’s mother felt much better—though she still felt bad for her college-bound second son.

At this moment, Fang Yuan spoke up again: “I married into your family. If I just leave like this, without any explanation, that won’t do. You need to go to the brigade, find someone impartial to make things clear, and write a proper division of property agreement.”

Just as Lu’s mother had comforted herself, she broke down again. Division of property? That meant these things would soon no longer be hers, but Second Lu’s. Clutching her chest, she still felt the pain.

Lu’s father felt ashamed. Even though things had come to this, he’d rather keep it within the family to save face. He tried to negotiate with Fang Yuan, “Fang girl, can’t we wait a bit? It’s not really appropriate to call people over to divide the family today.”

Fang Yuan immediately turned hostile, giving him no face at all, her words sharp: “When you promised your son to two families, did you think that was inappropriate? Bringing two dubious and immoral people into the family for no reason—do you really think hiding it makes things look better?”

Lu’s father still had his own principles—he couldn’t accept such accusations. He tried to reason with Fang Yuan, “Fang girl, the engagement wasn’t promised to two families. That girl forced her way in. Our family keeps its word.”

No matter what, Li Meng had come out and disgusted her. Fang Yuan glared, giving no one any face, “What, you want to argue with me about this?”

Lu’s father immediately backed down. The last time Fang Yuan argued, she flipped the table; the marks from her nails were still on his eldest son’s face.

If it came to being unreasonable, he didn’t dare; if it came to being reasonable, well, the family was clearly in the wrong.

The woman beside his eldest son was impossible to explain away. The child in her belly was even harder to account for. His face burned with shame—the Lu family had really disgraced themselves.

All he could do was call out to Third Lu, who was heading out: “San’er, on your way, ask the village secretary to come over.”

Lu Feng could hardly believe it. What kind of wedding was this? The whole family was being torn apart. How could his father agree to all this?

Fang Yuan started dividing up the family property: “For the division, we want the old house. That’s not really fair to us, is it?”

Lu’s father pulled a long face, not daring to answer. The old house wasn’t new, and there was still Third Lu to consider. Where would he live when he got married?

But he didn’t dare argue with Fang Yuan. Before she married in, they’d promised her the new house. But that was when she was marrying the eldest.

Now Fang Yuan was going to the old house, married to the second son. Wasn’t that unfair?

Lu Feng wanted to say, “I’m the eldest, this house should be mine.” But as soon as he opened his mouth, his nose started bleeding again, so he quickly covered it and couldn’t say a word.

The whole family listened in silence as Fang Yuan spoke.

Fang Yuan said, “But I’m a reasonable person, and I’m filial. Parents should live well. But let me be clear—this is out of filial piety, not to benefit Lu Feng.”

When it came to property, Lu Feng didn’t feel guilty at all. He had to fight for what was his. Holding his nose, he said, “You’re going too far. I’ll be the one supporting our parents in their old age.” The house was his.

Fang Yuan sneered, “You useless thing. As if being immoral wasn’t enough, you don’t even know whose child that woman is carrying, and you expect us to trust you to care for our parents?”

Li Meng couldn’t take it anymore. Wasn’t this just insulting her? “You woman, who are you calling names? Brother Feng is the eldest legitimate son. The child in my belly is the legitimate grandson.”

As if the Lu family had some gold mine waiting to be inherited."

"**Chapter 5: One Hundred Plus Two Hundred Fifty**

Fang Yuan could take on a whole room by herself. She pointed right at Li Meng’s nose and said, “You. Yes, you. Do I even need to insult you? Are you so pure and innocent? Have you ever seen a decent girl show up pregnant at someone else’s wedding? Want me to go outside and tell everyone about it?”

Li Meng shut her mouth. She cared about her reputation too. With the whole village gossiping, she couldn’t save face. She hadn’t expected this woman to be so fierce.

Fang Yuan turned to Oldest Lu and Li Meng and let loose: “I’m giving you face, so take it. When I tell you to shut up, just close your mouth. What, you think I’m easy to deal with? Think I won’t go out there and talk sense into people?”

She spat in Li Meng’s direction. “Pfft. Your precious eldest son—aren’t you ashamed to be involved in something so disgraceful?”

Li Meng pressed her lips tightly together. If word of this got out, she’d never be able to hold her head up in the village again.

Li Meng turned to Lu Feng, her voice as delicate as a wilted flower. “Feng-ge, I’m willing to suffer for you.”

Lu Feng’s face darkened. Who asked you to suffer? He just felt embarrassed. What was this woman doing here after breaking off the engagement?

Li Meng’s heartfelt confession only earned her Lu Feng’s back. No understanding, no comfort. The road to prosperity was off to a rocky start.

Fang Yuan spoke up, “I’m giving up this room for my parents. If Oldest Lu wants to live here, he’ll have to pay me.”

No freebies. Fang Yuan wasn’t about to waste words on people like them. Her family never suffered losses, and they cared about money. Ask around in the township—everyone knew that.

Old Lu mulled it over and thought it made sense. Fang Yuan might be a bit rough around the edges, but she had a good heart. She was thinking of her elders.

Sons are all family, but when it comes to dividing the house, things should be fair.

He sucked on his unlit pipe and said, “Fang Yuan’s right, but there’s no money left. We spent it all marrying you.”

Classic broke man.

Fang Yuan wasn’t afraid of the Lu family being poor. She’d already known most of their situation before marrying in. It wasn’t the Lu family she was planning to squeeze.

She pointed at Li Meng. “You guys might not have money, but she does. She came all this way, pregnant and alone, to find a man—she must have money.”

A penniless woman couldn’t act so spoiled. New bedding, a new enamel mug hanging on her luggage—one glance and Fang Yuan could tell she had cash.

Li Meng instinctively clutched her money pouch, furious and dizzy. This woman was shameless, eyeing her money. “Dream on! You’re just a thief. Why should I give you my money?”

Fang Yuan replied, “Thief? What’s worse, stealing money or stealing a man? I’m giving you a chance to pay a ransom for your man. He just married me, you know. What, you think you can just take him for free?” No need to act—she was playing the bandit to a T.

Old Lu and his wife were both stunned. What kind of person had they married into the family? Old Mrs. Lu realized Fang Yuan was not someone to cross.

Lu Feng just felt worthless. He’d just gotten married, and now this woman was selling him off for cash.

He glanced at Fang Yuan, then turned away, not wanting to look at her again. What kind of person had that matchmaker brought into their home?

If Lu Feng had a choice, he’d stay far away from both these women.

All the family’s money had gone into marrying off the eldest son. They really had nothing left. Now everyone just stared at the two women, meaning: You sort it out yourselves.

Li Meng could see it too—Lu Feng was starting to look down on her. She had to hold her ground. She gritted her teeth. “How much do you want?”

Fang Yuan shot back, “What, after all this fuss, you think this disgraceful man isn’t worth much? Shouldn’t you pay whatever you have? If it were me, I wouldn’t even take him if you paid me.”

Of course he was worth something. Now it was all about pride. Li Meng had to give Lu Feng face. Her man had to be valuable.

Besides, she’d made such a scene earlier, and Lu Feng seemed to be siding against her. Now she had to show some backbone and prove how much she valued her Feng-ge.

Li Meng gritted her teeth. What was a bit of money? Her man was capable, and there’d be plenty of money in the future. She’d be a rich wife someday.

She glared at Fang Yuan, thinking, “One day, this woman will have to watch me rise to the top. When we’re doing well, we won’t bother with Lu’s second family. Hmph. Let her regret it.”

She dug in her pocket for a long time, pulled out a roll of bills, steeled herself, stomped her foot, and threw the money over with her eyes closed. “Here! Take it! All of it!”

Oldest Lu watched as the two women bought and sold him, thinking, “So I really was sold by one woman and bought by another?”

Old Mrs. Lu was worried, seeing Li Meng just hand over her money like that. Was she stupid?

What would her son’s future look like? This woman really wasn’t much. You can’t just take advantage for nothing.

Honestly, Fang Yuan was the better woman—she knew how to run a household. Look at that: she’d just arrived and already had the house and the money in hand. She was a real manager.

Old Mrs. Lu was timid but not foolish. She thought, “Well, this isn’t so bad. Both sons have wives now.”

The eldest son’s wife came chasing after him—if she had to suffer a bit, so be it. The second son’s wife was begged for by the family, so of course she should be treated well. Even if she was meant for the eldest, there was no other way. The real worry was that the second son still had to go to college. What would they do?

The second son’s wife was fierce—she didn’t dare cross her. She wouldn’t even say it out loud. But she’d already decided: from now on, she’d go along with whatever the second son’s wife wanted. She didn’t dare do otherwise.

Fang Yuan calmly opened the roll of bills, licked her fingers, and started counting. Then she frowned at Li Meng and said, “So this disgraceful man is only worth two hundred fifty?”

That number—what a coincidence—wasn’t exactly lucky.

But the amount stunned the whole Lu family. It was more than all the money they’d scraped together for Fang Yuan’s bride price.

They looked at Li Meng like she was an idiot. So much money, just handed over?

Old Mrs. Lu even glanced at her eldest son—he wasn’t worth two hundred fifty, was he?

Li Meng was furious. This woman was too wicked. Wasn’t she deliberately driving a wedge between her and Lu Feng? “You’re the two hundred fifty! My Feng-ge is not a two hundred fifty!”

She pulled out a handkerchief and threw it at Fang Yuan. “Take it! It’s all yours!” She was ready to give her heart for Feng-ge.

Every penny was her love for him. She just didn’t know if he understood.

Unfortunately, Lu Feng didn’t see it that way. Watching Li Meng act foolish, he was getting anxious. What’s wrong with being worth two hundred fifty? Throwing money around like this—now that’s really being a fool.

He couldn’t bring himself to say, “He’s not worth two hundred fifty.”

Fang Yuan opened the handkerchief, counted the money, and was finally satisfied. She pocketed the cash and announced to the room, “One hundred plus two hundred fifty—deal. This disgraceful man is yours now.”

Li Meng was dizzy with anger. Three hundred fifty is three hundred fifty—why did she have to say two hundred fifty plus one hundred? It was like saying she wasn’t even worth two hundred fifty. Too wicked.

Fang Yuan wiped her hands with the handkerchief, then tossed it back to Li Meng with a look of disgust. “I don’t want this thing. It’s dirty.”

Her tone was so disdainful, it was almost bullying.

Just then, Lu’s third son arrived with the village party secretary."

"Chapter 6: Family Status

Old Man Lu got up and invited the village Party Secretary to sit on the kang (heated brick bed). He glanced at Fang Yuan, who had moved to sit at the edge, before hesitantly explaining the situation: “Today, my eldest and second sons’ wives are both entering the family—it’s an auspicious day. So I thought we might as well divide up the family property now. That’s why I asked my third son to invite you over, to help us sort things out.”

The village secretary was a bit confused. “Your second son is getting married today too? I hadn’t heard. Isn’t your second son about to go to university?”

It wasn’t easy for a rural family to send a child to college, so compared to getting married, the whole village paid more attention to higher education.

Old Man Lu glanced at Fang Yuan’s expression and explained, “Getting married won’t interfere with his studies.”

Old Lady Lu rubbed her hands and came up with a reason: “Well, our family isn’t well-off, so we thought we’d marry both daughters-in-law at once to save some money.” As she finished, she looked at Fang Yuan.

No matter how you looked at it, it was clear they were watching Fang Yuan’s reaction before making any decisions.

The village secretary thought to himself, Would the second son really agree to this? A college-bound kid willing to marry a wife in the countryside? Isn’t this nonsense?

But given the Lu family’s circumstances, it wasn’t surprising they wanted to save money on weddings.

Their eldest son, just to get married, didn’t even dare mention the fact that the family was supporting a college student, for fear the girl wouldn’t want to marry into a family with that kind of financial burden.

The village secretary thought further: Maybe the Lu family’s plan was to marry a wife for the second son in the countryside, support him through college, and have the daughter-in-law stay home to look after the parents and tend the land.

But that wasn’t something you could say out loud—it would sound bad.

So the village secretary didn’t ask further. He looked at the woman sitting on the kang, then at the one on the floor, and greeted Fang Yuan, who was sitting on the kang, “Eldest daughter-in-law.”

Fang Yuan answered confidently, “Uncle, I’m the second son’s wife. Sorry to trouble you today, but I’d like you to witness that I am the properly married wife of their second son—the college student’s wife.”

The village secretary rubbed his forehead, thinking, What’s going on? Weren’t you the eldest son’s wife when we were drinking earlier? I’m not that forgetful, am I?

He looked at Old Man Lu, silently asking for an explanation.

Old Man Lu braced himself and said, “Yes, yes, that’s right. Fang girl is the second son’s wife, properly married into our Lu family. Today, Fang girl and our second son are getting married.”

He looked at Fang Yuan, as if to ask, Is that the right way to put it? Are you satisfied?

Fang Yuan nodded, then said, “As for the eldest son’s wife, I don’t know what’s going on there. I’m not sure if they’re getting married today or not.”

That was almost worse than saying nothing—it made it obvious there was a problem with the eldest son’s marriage. She really wasn’t saving any face for the eldest couple.

Li Meng and the eldest son, Lu Feng, stood nearby, but neither said a word.

The village secretary’s eyebrows twitched. He remembered Fang Yuan’s reputation as a troublemaker from the Fang family in the neighboring village. If there weren’t another woman in the room, he’d have suspected Fang Yuan had forced her way into the marriage.

He glanced at the eldest son, whose face was scratched up, and at the woman beside him, and realized there was more to this story.

Everyone in the village knew that the eldest son had married Fang Yuan, the notorious troublemaker from the next village who was hard to marry off. So how did she end up as the second son’s wife?

But since they’d said as much, he couldn’t meddle. He just felt sorry for the second son—a college student, now married to a troublemaker. What a mismatch.

Strange as it was, this sort of thing wasn’t unheard of in the village. The secretary frowned and asked, “So, how are you planning to divide the family?”

Old Man Lu finally spoke up: “This house here, the eldest couple will live with us. The old house will be for the second couple. The land and trees will be split evenly with the third son.”

Old Lady Lu quickly added, “We don’t have any money or debts. The second couple’s house is old, so they can take whatever they like from here.”

Then the old couple both looked at Fang Yuan, asking eagerly, “Is that alright?” Their attitude was more deferential than to their own grandchildren.

The village secretary could tell something was up. The Lu family must be feeling guilty, or they wouldn’t be trying so hard to please the new daughter-in-law.

Otherwise, how could a troublemaker like her end up with the pick of the family?

The second son was probably being sacrificed by the family.

Especially that eldest couple—they probably weren’t up to any good. The secretary thought, By tomorrow morning, this will be the talk of the village.

What a pity about the second son—a good, educated boy, now married to this sort of girl. Life would be hard for him from now on.

Fang Yuan nodded, not objecting. “I heard your second son is going to college. Who knows what’ll happen with the land and trees in the future. Let’s just leave it like this for now.”

The village secretary nodded. This girl might be a troublemaker, but she had some sense. Most villagers wouldn’t understand the subtleties here.

The old Lu couple didn’t really get it, and after a pause, they nodded. “We’ll do as Fang Yuan says.”

With everything settled and the old couple behaving well, Fang Yuan said, “Alright, I’m a reasonable person, and I respect my elders. Now that we’ve sorted out the property, let’s talk about supporting the parents in their old age.”

Old Man Lu and Old Lady Lu immediately straightened their backs. There was a reason they wanted Fang Yuan as a daughter-in-law—she was filial. She hadn’t forgotten the elders even while dividing up the family.

The old couple quickly said they were still young and hadn’t thought about retirement yet, and they’d leave it up to Fang Yuan.

Fang Yuan took charge, finally looking directly at the eldest son: “There are three Lu brothers. The youngest is still a child, so he doesn’t get a say. The rest of us who are married should discuss this. With the land and trees split three ways, Mom and Dad won’t have much income. We need to make arrangements for their support.”

The village secretary nodded. The kids in this village were all good, and what she said made sense. “How do you three brothers want to handle supporting your parents? Should we wait for the second son to come back and discuss it?”

Fang Yuan answered decisively, “No need to wait—I can decide. The eldest should speak first.”

The secretary couldn’t help but glance at Fang Yuan again and again. How capable was she, to be running the affairs of a college student’s family, with no one from the Lu family daring to speak up?

He’d lived a long time, but he’d never seen anything like this.

Lu Feng was in a bad mood, unable to understand how he’d fallen so low. But things had gotten to this point—Fang Yuan clearly wouldn’t marry him, so what could he do?

No matter how good a woman was, if she wasn’t devoted to him, it was pointless. Hadn’t she already taken over the family property for the second son?

At this point, Li Meng stepped forward. She had to save face and make a good impression on her in-laws. She needed to lay the groundwork to stay in this family.

Li Meng spoke before Lu Feng could: “Dad and Mom will live with us. Now that the second son has his own family, every year he’ll give fifty yuan to support Dad and Mom. The third son will stay with us for now, and when he gets married, he’ll also contribute to their support, just like the second son.”

The village secretary raised his eyebrows. Fifty yuan a year was a lot—no other family in the village gave that much. And the second son was still going to college and would need money. How would they manage?

But since the children were willing, he couldn’t say much. “Old Lu, your daughter-in-law is very sensible.”

Old Man Lu looked at Fang Yuan. He didn’t dare agree on his own—things in their family weren’t decided by this daughter-in-law, but by Fang Yuan. “Fang girl, is this alright?”

[End of excerpt. New book launch—please bookmark and recommend!]"

"Chapter 7: A Bit Unreasonable

Old Lady Lu was also staring eagerly at Fang Yuan. Whether this was a good idea or not wasn’t up to them—the one who needed to agree was right here.

Fang Yuan nodded. “Alright, if Mom and Dad think it’s okay, then I have no problem with it.”

The old couple from the Lu family quickly echoed, “Alright, alright, if you say it’s okay, then it’s okay. We’ll listen to you.”

Li Meng’s face darkened. So, everything she said just now was for nothing.

Fang Yuan continued, “As long as your eldest son has no objections and is willing to let this ‘tainted’ woman run the household, then let’s put it in writing. By the way, the second branch’s contribution for the parents’ support will be one hundred.”

The village chief nodded. He hadn’t expected the old couple from the Lu family to be so blessed in their old age, with daughters-in-law competing to show filial piety and even stuffing them with money.

This girl might be a bit unruly, but she was generous and handled things with dignity. She didn’t let the eldest daughter-in-law suppress her.

Looking at the woman who had spoken earlier—now being called ‘tainted’ and not even daring to talk back—she probably really wasn’t clean.

He picked up his pen to draft the agreement, but Fang Yuan spoke up again. “Uncle, wait a minute. For the second branch’s share of the support, this ‘tainted’ woman will pay for four years. Make sure it’s written clearly in the document, and she has to sign it herself, stating it’s voluntary.”

The village chief was stunned. He glanced several times at the woman Fang Yuan kept calling ‘tainted.’ Who would agree to such a deal? He’d never seen a family division like this!

This really was a bit unreasonable. What if the kids just didn’t want to be filial?

The village chief couldn’t help but size up Li Meng. Oh, so she was Lu Laoda’s former fiancée, the one who used to come to the village.

So now, the ex-fiancée had entered the family home. No wonder things seemed a bit murky. There was definitely more to this than met the eye.

Li Meng had never heard of anything like this before—buying a good reputation for being filial, and just asking for a hundred like that. Why should she pay? “Are you crazy, or do you think I’m stupid?”

Fang Yuan’s aura was overwhelming. “What, you’re only good at stealing men? So, as the eldest daughter-in-law, you’re so filial to Mom and Dad? Just now you were shouting about having them live with you, but in the end, you want to use someone else’s money to support them, and still claim the credit for yourself. You want all the benefits.”

Lu Feng was furious, not even caring about the complicated relationships anymore. “It’s like this in every family. You’re just being unreasonable. I’m not going to argue with you.”

But Lu Feng’s mind was clear—at this crucial moment, the most important thing was knowing who was on his side.

Fang Yuan said, “So you know you’re being unreasonable. So your filial piety is just lip service? I’m supposed to spend money so you can look good? Do you think I’m stupid? You think you can just snatch people from me that easily? Even if I don’t want them, there still needs to be an explanation.”

Everyone could tell—that last sentence was the key point.

No need to spell it out—the village chief understood. No wonder the Lu family had two daughters-in-law show up today. The eldest’s woman was shameless, chasing after them.

Fang Yuan’s words were like a curse. Li Meng’s face turned pale with anger. “Don’t go too far.”

Fang Yuan replied, “How am I going too far? If I didn’t mind living with a ‘tainted’ woman like you, would you even have a place in this family? Having Mom and Dad live with you is giving you a chance to prove yourself. Otherwise, if they lived with me, you’d have to pay fifty a year for their support.”

Then Fang Yuan added, “If Mom and Dad live with me, you two can get out. I don’t want your money for their support.” She was tough as nails.

See? I might be a bit unreasonable, but I keep my word. It’s not like I’m not giving you a choice.

The village chief thought it over. The second son was about to go to college in a few years. They didn’t even have enough for tuition, let alone to make money. No wonder this unruly girl was seizing the opportunity to get her way.

Lu Laoda said, “I’m the eldest. Why should Mom and Dad live with you?” Never mind the money for now—if the villagers found out, he’d be scolded to death.

Li Meng realized that if she wanted peace today, she’d have to pay up.

She gritted her teeth and comforted herself, thinking, “Money will be worthless in the future. What’s a hundred bucks? It’s not even enough for soy sauce, and it’s only for four years.” “Fine, I’ll pay.”

She agreed so boldly—what’s three or five hundred? When she becomes a rich wife, she’ll throw away more than that.

Lu Laoda thought this woman was crazy. “You think making money is easy?”

The village chief’s look toward Lu Laoda changed. If making money is hard, does that mean you don’t have to support your parents?

Lu Laoda quickly said, “No, that’s not what I meant. Supporting your parents is a son’s duty. The amount doesn’t matter, but you can’t make someone else do it.”

That made sense. This was the most reasonable thing Lu Laoda had said so far.

Fang Yuan replied, “You sound reasonable, but then how could you do something so lacking in virtue? That’s an extra offense. You let a woman take the blame for your shameful deeds, and think you’re off the hook? Could that woman have gotten pregnant all by herself?”

What Fang Yuan despised most about Lu Laoda was this—he let that shameless woman spend the money and take the heat.

He, a grown man, acted like a victim, as if he’d suffered some great injustice. As if none of this was his doing, and the child wasn’t his.

That was something outsiders shouldn’t hear. The village chief’s jaw dropped.

Lu Xiaosan, the third son, piped up, “Second sister-in-law, it’s called ‘pregnant’ for women. Only pigs are called ‘carrying a litter.’” With one sentence, he made his allegiance clear.

Old Lady Lu glared at him. “What’s it got to do with you?”

But honestly, their eldest had let two women argue from start to finish, never taking responsibility. No wonder Fang Yuan looked down on him.

Li Meng snapped, “Watch your mouth. My Feng-ge is just reserved and deep. I’ll pay the money, so stop talking.”

Fang Yuan snorted and spat in Lu Laoda’s direction. What a disgrace.

The village chief was at a loss—how was he supposed to write this division agreement? He’d never encountered anything like this before.

But this confirmed it—the eldest daughter-in-law really wasn’t clean, or she wouldn’t be so easily manipulated. And Lu Laoda was even worse.

Did Fang Yuan care about the money? Could she possibly do a worse job supporting the parents than Lu Laoda? The Fang family never did things that would make people point fingers at them.

This division agreement was just a way to keep those two in check in the future. If they tried to deny it, she’d have proof.

Who knew what would happen in the future, but for the next few years, she wasn’t going to let Li Meng strut around under her nose. This was her way of putting a curse on Li Meng.

At this point, Old Lady Lu spoke up. “Let me say something. The third son is still young. For now, the two of us will live with him. When he gets married, we’ll live on our own. The support from the eldest, second, and third sons will all be written the same way.”

Old Man Lu looked up at his wife. What was she doing? Not living with the eldest? Wasn’t that just stepping all over him?

The village chief glanced at Old Lady Lu. She was usually quiet, but when it mattered, she was sharp!

He just wondered if, when the second son went to college, the old couple would still help out. It would be best to ask them privately later.

After saying her piece, Old Lady Lu looked at Fang Yuan. “Fang girl, what do you think?”

Fang Yuan nodded. “That’s good. You live with the third son. It sounds better, and it’ll be easier for him to find a wife in the future.”

Her demeanor was so commanding that even the village chief was a bit stunned. He thought to himself, in the future, it would probably be the second daughter-in-law running the Lu family.

Li Meng was so angry she could have ground her teeth to dust. This woman was dragging their reputation through the mud. How hateful!"

"Chapter 8: As Long As You Don’t Lose Your Morals

The matter was settled just like that. From beginning to end, neither Old Man Lu, Old Lady Lu, nor the village party secretary ever asked Lu the Eldest for his opinion.

As for the two younger brothers, they didn’t even look at their big brother.

Li Meng, on the other hand, kept tugging at Lu Feng’s sleeve, wanting him to speak up for her, to not just accept this and let her reputation be ruined.

But Lu Feng’s mind wasn’t on her at all.

Lu the Eldest was a bit stunned. Why didn’t his parents discuss this with him? He was the eldest, after all. “Dad, Mom, why?”

Old Lady Lu comforted him, “Your father and I will live on our own, it’s more comfortable that way. Lots of families in the village do it like this. Now that we’ve split up, you all can go live your own lives. As for your youngest brother getting married, your father and I will take care of it. You don’t need to worry about it. This is for the best.”

Old Lady Lu had it all figured out. They didn’t have many expenses, and the money the sons gave them for their old age would be enough in a few years to marry off the youngest.

Lu the Eldest did his own calculations too. As long as his parents didn’t go live with the second or third son, he could save face. He was still the eldest of the family.

And so, the matter was agreed to, muddled as it was.

After the family division agreement was written up, Fang Yuan watched as the village secretary signed, then the Lu couple, then Li Meng, and finally, everyone stared at Lu the Eldest.

Before Fang Yuan could say anything, Li Meng softly said, “Lu Feng, our days will only get better from now on.”

She had staked her reputation on this, but the upside was that once they got rich, no one in this family could cling to them anymore. Let them regret it—Li Meng had her pride.

Lu Feng picked up the pen and glanced at Fang Yuan—the woman who’d sold herself for 350 yuan—then at Li Meng, the woman who’d bought him for 350 yuan. He couldn’t even figure out what he was feeling, but he gritted his teeth and signed.

The agreement even included a yearly 200 yuan support payment for his parents, with 100 of that falling on the second brother. It was like losing a wife and getting stuck with a 400 yuan bill.

Lu Feng was beyond frustrated. Why should he have to pay 200 yuan? That was a huge sum, more than he could save in a whole year.

At that moment, Lu Feng didn’t know whether to be proud that he was worth so much. He shot Fang Yuan a deep, complicated look—this woman really was something else.

But Fang Yuan wasn’t afraid of him. She didn’t even bat an eye. Did this useless man really think he could just coast through life with everyone else taking the hits? That’s not how a penniless bachelor should behave.

If I can skin Li Meng, I can skin you too. But she wouldn’t take the money herself—she had her pride. Giving it to the Lu parents was fine.

The village secretary glanced at Fang Yuan, then said to Old Man Lu, “Just need your second and third sons’ signatures now.”

Lu the Youngest poked his head in from the doorway. “Uh, my second brother’s right here.”

Lu the Second came in with a dark face, not a hint of a groom’s joy about him.

The village secretary figured Lu the Second must be unhappy about this marriage.

Fang Yuan held out the agreement to Lu the Second. “It’s all divided. Dad and Mom have no objections, neither do I. Sign it.” The implication: no one else’s opinion matters.

Lu the Second had already calmed himself outside—don’t get angry, don’t get angry—but the moment this shrew spoke, he wanted to grind his teeth.

Lu the Youngest tried to flatter her: “Second Sister-in-law, my second brother will be starting university soon. Life’s tough for you two now, but once he graduates, he’ll definitely make something of himself.”

Fang Yuan glanced at Lu the Second. “How much he achieves isn’t the point. As long as he doesn’t lose his morals, that’s enough.”

Lu the Eldest, who’d been subtly insulted, was grinding his teeth on the side.

Of course, Lu the Second didn’t feel flattered by this either.

This whole family had been worn down by this shrew until they didn’t even have the energy to argue.

Fang Yuan glared at Lu the Second. “What are you looking at? Sign.”

Lu the Second picked up the pen, staring at his parents, his mind in turmoil. He’d need money for university, but now that the family was split, no one had mentioned it.

He couldn’t help but wonder—maybe his parents were afraid he’d be a burden to the family. His eyes reddened. “Should I sign?”

Just three words, but for a scholar, the weight in his heart was heavy.

Old Lady Lu and Old Man Lu looked at their second son expectantly. “Go ahead, sign.”

Lu the Second’s hand trembled as he held the pen. He knew his own family—his parents and big brother must be relieved. Supporting a college student wasn’t easy.

Otherwise, with the Eldest’s stingy nature, he’d never have agreed to such a bad deal in the division.

He finally looked seriously at Fang Yuan beside him. Regardless of feelings, at this moment, Lu the Second felt a strange sense of solidarity.

No matter what happened in the future, at least right now, he wasn’t alone. He wondered if this tough, penniless girl beside him realized what it meant to have picked up a college student like him—there was no bargain to be had here.

Lu the Second signed with his eyes closed, his mind full of worries about school—maybe even going at all was in question now. He couldn’t really drag Fang Yuan down with him.

Then Lu the Youngest signed too, and the family division was finally complete.

The village secretary had never seen anything like this before. As he was sent off by the Lu family, his mind was spinning.

And as for the Eldest’s “not-so-innocent” wife—what exactly had she done, to sign an agreement like this? The village secretary was full of gossip.

But he weighed it up—everyone said that girl from the Fang family was wild, but she seemed pretty sharp to him.

He had to admire how the family was split. Over the next four years, she’d keep the Eldest couple firmly under her thumb. After four years, when the Second finished university, could the Eldest still compare to him?

The more he thought about it, the more impressive this woman seemed.

Once the outsiders had left, Fang Yuan spoke up again. “Tomorrow morning, your whole family is going to go door to door in the village and tell everyone that I am your second son’s lawfully wedded wife. If you don’t make it clear, I’ll go tell them myself.”

Lu the Eldest thought, wouldn’t that just drag him and his “bargain wife” through the mud? “Don’t go too far.”

Fang Yuan’s face darkened. “If I hear even a single bad word about me in the village, I’ll tell everyone how that ‘not-so-innocent’ woman is already several months pregnant.”

Scared? What a joke. Who was this immoral person trying to shame? She’d given them enough face.

Old Man Lu said, “I’ll go, I’ll go—Fang Yuan, I’ll go explain.”

Fang Yuan replied, “No. You don’t get to pick up a bargain like that. That ‘not-so-innocent’ woman has to go herself and explain. If anyone says a bad word about me in the future, it’s because she didn’t make herself clear, and I’ll come tear her house apart.”

She shot a glare at Li Meng, her tone unkind: “Don’t try to act all innocent after getting your way. That doesn’t work with me, got it?”

Li Meng looked at Lu Feng, aggrieved, then sniffled. For the sake of being a rich wife in the future, she’d endure it. This wasn’t much.

Gritting her teeth, she said, “I’ll explain. My family lives far away, so I was delayed on the road, which is why there was only one bride when we arrived, and people misunderstood you as the Eldest’s wife. My engagement to the Eldest is fine—there was never any talk of breaking it off. We just had a little spat because of family pressure, but our love is as strong as gold. From beginning to end, you were always the Second’s wife. You only married him because he’s good-looking and literate. You married for the man himself.”

Old Man Lu and Old Lady Lu nodded vigorously. That story sounded good—almost believable.

Fang Yuan snorted. “No wonder you’re so shameless. You can make up lies better than anyone.”

Li Meng’s face was indescribably ugly—she’d never been so humiliated."

"Chapter 9: The Matriarch Defends Her Title

The Lu family all turned to look at Li Meng. This woman was a liar—everyone’s eyes were full of wariness.

Li Meng hurriedly waved her hands. “No, I’m not…”

But the facts were right in front of them—could she really explain her way out of this?

Fang Yuan shot Li Meng a glare, warning her, “From now on, stop looking at our second son. He’s literate, good-looking, and not someone you should be thinking about. If I catch you once, I’ll hit you once.”

Lu’s second son felt a bit out of sorts hearing himself called “our second son.” He couldn’t help baring his teeth in discomfort—he didn’t even feel sad anymore.

Old Mrs. Lu looked at Li Meng with concern, then glanced at her second son. If this was true, it would be the source of chaos in the family. This matter needed to be watched closely—Fang Yuan was right to be cautious.

Li Meng was so angry she was grinding her teeth, trembling and unable to speak clearly. “I was just praising you! I only like our Feng-ge!”

Fang Yuan pointed at Li Meng’s nose and cursed, “Pah! I knew you were shameless. You say these kinds of shameless things out loud.”

Honestly, Fang Yuan’s behavior and words were a bit much, but somehow, they made sense.

Lu Chuan watched as Li Meng trembled, unable to get a word out, while Fang Yuan scolded her. He thought, “It takes a villain to deal with a villain.” No one in their family had ever managed to reason with Li Meng.

Look at Fang Yuan—she didn’t bother reasoning, and she had Li Meng under control in an instant.

Fang Yuan instructed the Lu parents, “Keep an eye on this woman from now on. Don’t let her embarrass the family outside.”

Li Meng was furious, losing her composure. “Who are you to tell me what to do?”

Fang Yuan replied, “Even though we’ve split up the family, it still looks bad if people talk about us. The men rely on their reputation to work outside. Cherish it—don’t ruin it. The third son still needs to find a wife one day.”

The Lu parents didn’t dare offend Fang Yuan, and she was right, so they nodded immediately. “Don’t worry, we’ll handle it. You don’t need to worry.”

Li Meng’s only motivation to keep going was the hope of a better life in the future. No matter what she said, Fang Yuan would scold her, so she just gave up and stayed silent.

She looked at Lu Feng with pity in her eyes. So what if he became the richest man in his past life? Living with a woman like this couldn’t have been easy.

Lu Feng got goosebumps from Li Meng’s gaze. This woman was crazy.

Fang Yuan, seeing she had the situation under control and everyone was listening, was quite satisfied.

She finally got off the bed, shot a look at Lu’s second son, and said, “Let’s go. Look at your pale face, letting that shameless woman stare at you.”

Lu’s second son didn’t even know how to react. He just wanted to howl at the sky—what kind of woman was this? What kind of life was he going to have in the future?

This woman sold off Lu’s eldest brother for just 350 yuan. Could he really live with her? Why did he feel so insecure?

If Lu’s eldest brother was worth 350 yuan, Lu’s second son started wondering how much he’d be worth.

If another woman came along wanting to buy him, how much would this woman sell him for? Could she make a fortune just by selling off the men?

In the end, he still had to follow Fang Yuan. Otherwise, the whole family would have to watch her mood.

Another thing—Lu’s second son was quick-witted. He could see that Fang Yuan was a tough character. If he didn’t go along, she might drag him out herself, which would be even more embarrassing.

Looking at his parents, who were timidly watching Fang Yuan’s face, Lu’s second son sighed. After a whole day of chaos, it was time for this matter to end.

The Lu family watched as the two of them left one after another. The third son couldn’t hold back and started crying. “Mom, Dad, will second brother be okay? Will he get beaten?”

Lu’s third son had always been a bit shrewd but also timid. He wasn’t the type to do good deeds easily, but he couldn’t do bad things either.

Everyone looked at Lu’s eldest brother, who had already been beaten. Wasn’t it obvious? The second brother wouldn’t fare much better.

Lu’s eldest brother didn’t look good, blustering, “What are you looking at? At least she’s a woman—she wouldn’t dare.”

Then everyone fell silent again. She really would dare—and she already had.

She’d even beaten up the eldest brother and this not-so-innocent woman right in front of the whole family. A living example.

Coming from Lu’s eldest brother, those words had zero credibility. He muttered, “Second brother didn’t even do anything wrong.”

After that, everyone fell silent again. So you know you embarrassed yourself and deserved to be beaten? Lu’s eldest brother just squatted on the doorstep, covering his head, retreating into himself.

Old Mrs. Lu was still worried about her son. She grabbed Old Mr. Lu and spoke shakily, “Do you think second son will be okay?”

Old Mr. Lu looked miserable, completely at a loss. If he’d been tougher, if he could take charge, their second son wouldn’t have ended up like this.

But honestly, given the second son’s situation, marrying Fang Yuan wasn’t so bad. Maybe her family could help him with his studies in the future.

If he hadn’t thought about that, he wouldn’t have let his son get involved. Lacking confidence, he said, “Let’s wait and see. It should be fine.”

What else could they do? Their son had already been taken away.

Old Mrs. Lu steeled herself and stomped her foot. “As long as he’s not beaten to death, we’ll have another daughter-in-law. Second son will have a wife now.”

Then she wailed, “My poor second son!” Clearly, she wasn’t very confident.

Lu’s third son cried too. “Mom, I don’t want a wife like that.”

Old Mrs. Lu smacked him. “Nonsense! Where would we get the money to find you a wife? Otherwise, your second brother wouldn’t have to suffer.”

She glanced at Li Meng, the “bargain” daughter-in-law who’d come knocking herself. If they couldn’t have someone like Fang Yuan, they definitely couldn’t have someone like Li Meng. She’d have to make things clear to her third son later.

It’s fine if a wife is a bit fierce, but a spendthrift is absolutely unacceptable.

Mother and son exchanged tearful looks, then started wailing together.

Old Mr. Lu was getting angry. “Stop crying! Do you want the whole village to know our business?”

Fine. Old Mrs. Lu hugged the third son, and the two of them cried into their hands, trying to muffle the sound. The scene was even more heartbreaking.

Li Meng looked at this family—there wasn’t even money left to get the third son a wife. When would she ever get to be a rich lady? She wanted to cry too.

She turned to look at Lu Feng, her hope for the future reignited. “Feng-ge, I’m not afraid of hardship. Let’s work hard together for a better life.”

In the future, Lu Feng would drive everywhere, and have houses all over the place. All of that would be hers. Thinking of this, Li Meng felt her mood lift, filled with hope again.

Li Meng’s heartfelt confession was met with nothing but Lu Feng’s back as he slammed the door behind him. His wedding day had been ruined by this crazy woman. The money, the family fortune—all gone.

Lu Feng wasn’t completely without ambition, but it was just that his family was poor and things had gotten out of hand. His courage had been worn away.

Li Meng had broken off the engagement first, then came back around with a completely different attitude. Who knew what she was really up to?

But at least he was getting a wife, right? Even if the family fortune was gone.

Passing by? Don’t miss out—bookmark, recommend, it’s worth having!"

"Chapter 10: Things That Make People Afraid

Oldest Lu looked around the west room, which used to be decorated festively. Now, the four corners were empty and bare—Fang Yuan had nearly peeled off the New Year pictures from the walls to take with her. He felt like crying. What a bandit of a woman.

Second Lu had originally been following behind Fang Yuan, but when she stopped, he instinctively took several steps back. First, because this woman was too fierce; second, to avoid any suspicion.

Fang Yuan glared, but her tone was fairly normal: “What are you hiding for? Behave yourself and I won’t hit you in the future.”

Second Lu’s little manly heart was shattered. Was he really afraid of a woman?

Truth be told, he was. From what he’d seen with his own eyes, in terms of physical strength, he really couldn’t beat this woman. His small frame was no match.

Of course, as a man, he couldn’t fight a woman—how disgraceful would that be? Always fighting and yelling, how uncouth.

Looking at Second Lu, Fang Yuan felt a bit of regret—was he a fool or something? Why was he just standing there in a daze? “What are you staring at? Lead the way. How would I know where your old house is?”

Second Lu snapped back to reality. So that’s why Fang Yuan had stopped—she didn’t know the way.

He started leading the way and asked as they walked, “Then how did you know our family has an old house?”

Fang Yuan answered offhandedly, “Third Granny told me. When she came to propose, she said, ‘In the future, you and Little Third will live in the old house, the new house will be all yours.’”

The meaning was clear: I married into your family on this condition.

When Second Lu heard this, he was furious. This woman had ulterior motives from the start, wanting to kick him and Little Third out.

He knew she wasn’t a good person. He was even angrier at his parents for agreeing to such terms without discussing it with him or Little Third.

All just to get a wife for the eldest son—they’d really gone all out.

Fang Yuan wasn’t happy either, and said, “If it were you, the house would be gone and you’d be left with the old place. Forget it, I won’t complain.”

Second Lu was so upset he could hardly speak, and shot back, “You haven’t even asked if I’m willing!” He was practically furious.

Besides, even though the house was gone, they’d gotten over three hundred yuan for nothing. What was he lacking?

Of course, he didn’t feel too confident—he’d need money for school in the future, and he wouldn’t be earning much in the next few years.

If Second Lu’s words were prickly, Fang Yuan’s were like cannon fire: “Does your whole family trick people into marriage? And you dare say you’re unwilling?”

You’re just a compensation product—do you even get a say?

Seeing how fierce she was, Second Lu shut his mouth, afraid she’d get physical without warning.

If she kicked him out onto the street, it’d be so humiliating.

As they walked, Fang Yuan lectured the unlucky Lu child, “I don’t mind you, but you’d better behave yourself from now on, understand? Bloodlines are powerful—if you turn out like Oldest Lu, I won’t tolerate it.”

Second Lu was fuming. “My dad and mom are fine. Bloodlines or whatever, I won’t turn out like Oldest Lu.”

Besides, what did this have to do with bloodlines? It was all Oldest Lu’s fault for not being able to keep it in his pants.

Second Lu fell silent, dizzy with anger. Since when did he become someone to be looked down on?

If it weren’t for today’s situation, would his marriage have been settled so casually?

If he wanted to get engaged, plenty of girls would have come running without him spending a penny.

That wasn’t bragging—Second Lu was good-looking and a college student. The village girls, even those from neighboring towns, all liked to sneak a look at him.

If he hadn’t been so set on leaving, marriage would never have been a problem.

Then Fang Yuan suddenly asked, “So Oldest Lu was picked up off the street? He’s not your parents’ biological son?”

Otherwise, why is everyone else in your family well-behaved, but Oldest Lu isn’t? Her question cut to the core.

Second Lu took a deep breath. This woman must be crazy. “He’s their real son! He’s a grown man—how can our parents control everything he does?”

Fang Yuan looked even more disgusted. Still, she gave Second Lu a bit of face: “So it’s Oldest Lu who set a bad example. You’re not allowed to follow him.”

Second Lu was so angry he didn’t reply. After all that, it was still the same issue. At least she didn’t say their bloodline was bad.

He felt so stifled—he wanted to chew Oldest Lu up and spit him out. So embarrassing.

When Fang Yuan didn’t hear Second Lu promise, she scowled. What did this guy mean—was he planning to follow in Oldest Lu’s footsteps?

So when Second Lu led her into the old house, he saw Fang Yuan standing there, hands on her hips, glaring at him.

He was so startled he jumped onto the kang (heated brick bed). “What do you want?”

That posture was unforgettable—just before Fang Yuan kicked Oldest Lu, she’d stood exactly like that. It left a psychological shadow.

Fang Yuan asked fiercely, “Are you planning to be as shameless as Oldest Lu?”

Second Lu was especially aggrieved. “Why would I want to be like him? Don’t talk nonsense.”

Fang Yuan snorted, “I’m a reasonable person. Oldest Lu is a shameless, immoral thing—don’t learn from him, or you’ll regret it.”

What she didn’t say was that she wouldn’t let Lu’s parents teach him either—what if they turned him into another Oldest Lu? She kept that to herself, out of respect for the elders.

As for not following Oldest Lu’s example, Second Lu was sure of that—he really couldn’t. He wasn’t as simple-minded as Oldest Lu.

He also despised Oldest Lu’s behavior. Getting married had cost the family so much, and now things had ended up like this, even dragging his brothers down.

Their parents had to bow and scrape in front of others—if Oldest Lu had any backbone, he’d step up and handle things himself.

He wanted to grab Oldest Lu by the neck and shake him: “So what if you stay single? Why ruin the family and make things hard for our parents?”

Then Fang Yuan looked around the old house and glared at Second Lu. “Wearing shoes on the kang—don’t you have any manners?” Her disdain was obvious.

Second Lu thought, “If I weren’t afraid you’d kick me, I wouldn’t have jumped up here.”

Sharing a room with you, and on the kang too—how terrifying.

Fang Yuan was particular about hygiene. Wearing shoes on the kang—some college student you are. Don’t you have any standards? She’d have to teach him.

Second Lu sneaked a glance at Fang Yuan, saw she wasn’t about to kick him, and finally dared to get off the kang and hide in an inconspicuous corner. He was just afraid Fang Yuan would take him too seriously.

Fang Yuan looked around, her face full of disdain. “This place is so rundown—I wonder if it leaks when it rains.”

Second Lu was afraid she’d get upset and go back to bother his parents, so he tried to reassure her: “It doesn’t leak. Little Third and I lived here a lot. It looks shabby, but it’s dry. If we fix it up, it’ll be even sturdier.”

Fang Yuan finally nodded. “Third Granny didn’t lie to me about this. It’s old, but at least it’s peaceful to live in. I just can’t stand those two immoral things, so I’ll make do here.”

Second Lu was at a loss for words. You haven’t even married in yet and you’re already eyeing our house and pushing out your brother-in-law. How can you say it so brazenly?

Good thing this woman didn’t end up as their eldest sister-in-law—otherwise, life would be predictably miserable.

He didn’t want her as his wife either. That, too, would be a predictably pitiful fate."

"Chapter 11: Not One for Reasoning

After thinking about it, Second Lu felt as if the sky above his head had turned gloomy—Fang Yuan was that dark cloud hanging overhead.

As for taking advantage of anyone, Second Lu didn’t even dare to entertain the thought.

He spent ages psyching himself up, deciding he should at least try talking to Fang Yuan first, maybe salvage his own future: “Are you really reasonable?”

Fang Yuan replied with great confidence, “Don’t worry, I’m the most reasonable person you’ll ever meet. Everyone in our village and the surrounding area knows it.”

Her family’s village was close to town, so Fang Yuan was quite well-known in those parts.

Second Lu probed cautiously, “So, so can we talk this over? Look, you’ve already gotten quite a bit of money, and as for Big Brother Lu—he’s so shameless, if you don’t want him, just let him go. No big loss, right? As for me, I know I’m not good enough for you, I’m really sorry about that. So how about… you just don’t want the ‘man’ anymore?”

Fang Yuan shot Second Lu a look, staring him straight in the eyes, and said, word by word, “My mother always told me, pretty boys are never up to any good. The moment I laid eyes on you, I knew you weren’t anything special. Is money worth more than a person? Are you trying to fool me for a fool?”

Honestly, who says Fang Yuan is a troublemaker? She makes a lot of sense.

Second Lu also thought, even though he was a bit down and out at the moment, he still had potential—a stock with room to grow.

This woman had some insight, but why did she have to be so proud?

Watching Fang Yuan’s face change, Second Lu was truly scared of her temper. He hurriedly said, “N-no, I just didn’t want you to lose face if word got out. It’s mostly because I lack confidence—I feel bad for you, that’s all.”

He put on a look of sincere concern, as if he was doing it all for her sake.

But Fang Yuan was decisive: “Hmph, what could be more embarrassing than not being able to get married? Don’t even think about pulling any tricks. In three days, get ready to come home with me.”

And just like that, she unilaterally settled the matter. As for the marriage, she wouldn’t let Second Lu drag it out any longer.

In short: Can we live a good life together? If not, we’ll go outside and reason things out—I’ll show you how life should be lived.

Second Lu felt as if his backbone had been ripped out, completely deflated. There was no escaping her clutches now. This woman was nothing like she claimed—she was not reasonable at all.

And there was another thing giving Second Lu a headache: almost all the family’s money was in Fang Yuan’s hands now.

If he lost this wife, he’d lose both the woman and the money. His mother probably couldn’t take that blow.

To get a wife for Big Brother Lu, they’d sent nearly two hundred to Fang Yuan’s family, draining all their savings.

If this marriage fell through, there was no way Fang Yuan would return the money. Not to mention the three hundred and fifty she’d just gotten from selling off Big Brother Lu.

Thinking about it, his own brother had been “sold” for three hundred and fifty, and Second Lu felt sorry for his parents’ loss.

He weighed Fang Yuan, his parents, the family’s savings, and all that money for a long time.

Honestly, even though he was young and confident, he still felt he wasn’t worth that much. To put it bluntly, he just couldn’t let go of the money.

Second Lu sucked in a cold breath. Even though he was sure he’d make something of himself in the future, right now he was stuck because of this money.

Fang Yuan, on the other hand, wasn’t one to brood or overthink things.

She started giving orders: “Put that shameless woman’s bedding on the kang. I don’t even think her stuff is clean, but it’ll do for a base layer. Then put my dowry bedding on top. We’ll just make do for tonight.”

Then she started complaining about Second Lu: “And you call yourself a scholar? How are you so useless? I told you to bring anything useful, but you didn’t even think to bring over the firewood stack. Look, there’s not even anything to burn.”

Second Lu’s mouth twitched. Was firewood something you could just move on a whim? With his skinny frame, could he even manage it?

But, to be fair, he hadn’t thought to bring firewood because there was some in this yard already. He just didn’t want to tell Fang Yuan that.

This woman’s words could really sting. Just because of a few sticks of firewood, he was now “useless”? Did she have to talk like that?

Second Lu said, “If you call your own man useless, do you think anyone will respect you? Who puts down their own husband like that? I told you, you look down on me, and I’m not good enough for you. How about we talk this over again?”

Fang Yuan actually took his words to heart: “My mother did tell me not to call my own man useless. Fine, I won’t say it again.”

That left Second Lu at a loss for how to respond. So she wasn’t completely unreasonable after all? Admitting her mistakes and correcting them—was that a good trait?

But Fang Yuan didn’t dwell on it, and just gave another order: “Tomorrow, go bring all the firewood over.”

Second Lu tried to reason with her, “But my parents are still over there.”

Fang Yuan replied, “What are you worrying about? That shameless woman seems capable enough—she won’t be short of firewood.”

Fine, Second Lu kept quiet. Just thinking about moving that pile of firewood made him sigh—tomorrow he’d embarrass himself again.

The two of them just couldn’t communicate.

Second Lu figured, with such a big gap between their ways of thinking, this marriage wouldn’t work out. Tomorrow, he’d try to talk her into calling it off.

Just then, outside, his mother started knocking on the door: “Second, Second’s wife, open up! Mom’s here to light the kang for you.”

Second Lu was stunned. He and Third had always lived here and lit the kang themselves. His mother was always busy cooking and mending for the whole family—she never had time for this.

He glanced at Fang Yuan. This woman really carried some weight. Was his own mother being a bit too attentive?

Fang Yuan nudged Second Lu with her foot, a little impatient: “Go open the door. Didn’t you hear? Mom’s here.”

Second Lu went out and saw his mother carrying firewood into the house. She pushed past her son and, with a fawning smile, turned to Fang Yuan: “Now that Big Brother’s married, Second and Third were supposed to move back to the old house. There was so much going on today, I’m late lighting the kang. Second’s wife, let me light it for you.”

Her attitude was warm and gentle, all flattery. Anyone who didn’t know better would think she was the new daughter-in-law.

But Second Lu’s mother had been coached by his father: their second son would be studying in the future, and studying needed money. Right now, Fang Yuan held the purse strings. Of course, the main thing was that Second’s wife was tough—money or not, she had to be kept happy.

Fang Yuan was very pleased with Second Lu’s mother’s words. At least the Lu family wasn’t trying to fool her: “I really am reasonable. You’re doing the right thing, so I won’t object. If you want to light the kang, go ahead, just don’t use too much firewood—don’t waste it.”

She spoke as if giving a reward—who knew where she got her confidence from. Clearly, she still needed to learn how to treat her elders and in-laws.

Second Lu thought, there wasn’t a single new daughter-in-law in the village as brazen as this. She really didn’t match up with him at all.

Second Lu’s mother was delighted to hear this. She said, even though Fang Yuan was a bit rough around the edges, she really knew how to run a household.

She pledged her loyalty to Fang Yuan: “I knew Second’s wife was someone who knew how to live.”

Then she added, “If you hadn’t been given to Big Brother’s side, I’d have wanted to live with you myself.”

Second Lu thought, What do you know? Tomorrow she’s going to move the firewood pile over here—she’s just saving her own firewood. His mother’s fawning was honestly a bit embarrassing.

New book uploaded—please bookmark and recommend. Thank you all for your support."

"Chapter 12: Such a Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law

Fang Yuan found this mother-in-law’s words rather pleasant to hear: “Right now, that shameless woman hasn’t found her footing yet, so she’ll definitely try to flatter and please you. Just make do for now. If you get tired of her later, we’ll talk again.”

Then Fang Yuan added, “I’m not one for empty words. Your son still has to go to school, and I’ve got my hands full just getting by these days. Trying to win me over won’t do you any good.”

Clearly, they had real difficulties, and hearing this made Old Lady Lu even more satisfied. The second daughter-in-law was sensible—very good.

Fang Yuan continued, “Once your son gets on his feet and proves himself, I’ll stand up for you and make sure that woman doesn’t make your lives miserable. You’re welcome to come over whenever you want, but let’s be clear from the start—I want nothing to do with Lu Laoda and his wife.”

Lu Lao’er was stunned when he heard this. This girl was blunt in her actions and even blunter in her words, but she was sharp and not to be underestimated. She even knew about his school expenses, and most importantly, she didn’t look down on him.

Facing Fang Yuan, Lu Lao’er’s thoughts suddenly grew deeper—he was overthinking things a bit.

Old Lady Lu was touched. “No need, no need. Mom doesn’t need you to look after us. Just take care of Lao’er. He’s already a burden on you with his schooling, but don’t worry, your father and I will help you however we can.”

As for who to live with, Old Lady Lu really didn’t want to stay with Li Meng, that shameless woman. Sooner or later, the villagers would gossip, and it was all Li Meng’s fault.

Old Lady Lu didn’t know the phrase “endure humiliation for a greater cause,” but she did feel that putting up with Li Meng for now was a great sacrifice.

If she had to live with Fang Yuan, Old Lady Lu would feel pressured too—it was a heavy burden.

Fang Yuan nodded. “That’s true, no need for that. You’re both still capable, so just take care of yourselves. Don’t worry about old-age support.”

Old Lady Lu was already wiping her tears. Like a blind cat stumbling onto a dead mouse, this second daughter-in-law was just right. “Alright, Mom will listen to you. Lao’er’s wife, what would you like to eat tomorrow? I’ll make it and bring it over.”

Fang Yuan thought for a moment. “I’m so annoyed by those two shameless ones that I don’t even feel like eating. I’ll just make do with some meat rolls.”

Lu Lao’er finally snapped out of it and couldn’t help but twitch his mouth. Early in the morning, and she calls this “not wanting to eat”? No matter how sharp she is, there’s no hiding the fact that this woman is quite a character.

Old Lady Lu didn’t even hesitate. “That’s good. I’ll go knead the dough and let it rise on the heated kang. You’ll definitely have meat rolls to eat tomorrow morning. Lao’er’s wife, you haven’t asked for your share of grain yet. Remember to get it tomorrow.”

Fang Yuan nodded. The Lu parents were sensible people and handled things well.

How could she have forgotten to ask for grain? What a mistake. She needed to reflect on that.

Fang Yuan finally looked at her mother-in-law properly. “I really like your personality and enjoy spending time with you, but let’s get the ugly truth out in the open first.”

Old Lady Lu was especially obedient. “Just say what’s on your mind, Lao’er’s wife. Mom’s listening.”

Fang Yuan said, “I’ve observed you and Dad—you both have good tempers and are reasonable, but you’re not very good at disciplining your sons.”

Old Lady Lu glanced at her second son, not daring to say a word. Was it that Lao’er wasn’t to her liking?

Fang Yuan pulled Old Lady Lu to sit down and explained slowly, “Look at how Lu Laoda turned out. Sure, it’s his own fault for being shameless, but it’s also because you didn’t discipline him. If it were my brothers, my parents would’ve straightened them out long ago.”

Old Lady Lu thought of Fang Yuan’s parents and her many brothers, and swallowed hard. “You’re right, Lao’er’s wife. Laoda turned out this way because we didn’t raise him properly.”

Fang Yuan continued, “Lu Laoda is a lost cause now. Just keep a closer eye on the third son from now on. As for Lao’er, I’d prefer you didn’t interfere anymore.”

She was clearly worried they’d mess things up and turn Lao’er into another Lu Laoda.

Old Lady Lu felt stifled but still nodded in agreement. “You’re right, Lao’er’s wife. From now on, Lao’er is yours to manage. Your father and I won’t interfere.”

That was basically handing her son over. Lu Lao’er’s face was unreadable. In the whole village, he’d never seen such a humble mother-in-law.

Today, his mother had broken two village records, and Lu Lao’er didn’t dare feel proud.

Fang Yuan smiled. “I knew you and Dad were reasonable people. I’m straightforward and say what’s on my mind. Don’t worry—if the third son ever goes astray, I’ll speak up too.”

She even had a sense of responsibility as a sister-in-law.

Old Lady Lu took a deep breath—maybe it was best for the third son to behave. “I like straightforward people. Sorry to trouble you, Lao’er’s wife. Mom’s too soft and can’t control the kids. I’ll have to rely on you.”

Lu Lao’er, listening on the side, couldn’t help but rub his chest—he was finding all this hard to digest.

Fang Yuan said, “Don’t say that. It’s just that, after what’s happened in our family, we need to pay more attention to our reputation. It’ll affect the third son’s chances of finding a good wife in the future.”

That hit home for Old Lady Lu. No matter how unruly this girl was, she was reliable and knew what she was doing. “Exactly, that’s it. Lao’er’s wife, you’re thinking ahead and making the family look good. We’ll listen to you and make sure to teach the third son well.”

Then she added, “You must be tired, Lao’er’s wife. Is there anything else? Take a break, and if you think of anything else, just let me know.”

Fang Yuan replied, “It’s all for the sake of our family’s future, so the third son can marry a good wife. Mom, you should rest early too. Living with that shameless one must be exhausting—you’re really suffering.”

Just a few words, and Old Lady Lu was over the moon. This daughter-in-law was considerate, knew how to run a household, and cared about the family. After this conversation, their relationship reached an unprecedented harmony.

In all the surrounding villages, Lu Lao’er had never seen a mother as humble as his.

After talking with her daughter-in-law, Old Lady Lu was in high spirits as she said to Lu Lao’er, “Your wife is wonderful. I really like her.”

Lu Lao’er had never seen his mother so eager to please. “What’s so great about her?”

Old Lady Lu didn’t even have to think. “She’s valuable, not cheap.”

That didn’t sound quite right, but this was a daughter-in-law she liked. Old Lady Lu continued, “Just look at how capable your wife is. She’s so much better than that shameless, useless thing in your brother’s house. You can’t go wrong listening to your wife.”

Then, with a look of having struck a good bargain, Old Lady Lu whispered to Lu Lao’er, “Your third aunt really had a good eye. She said from the start your wife was good at managing a household.”

Lu Lao’er thought to himself, “But she wasn’t picking a wife for me back then.” Saying this now—aren’t you afraid of hurting your son’s feelings?

Then again, neither his mother nor Fang Yuan were the type for such delicate thoughts. It was a pity that he, a grown man, was left to feel all the bitterness alone.

Looking at Old Lady Lu, Lu Lao’er ground his molars. Admittedly, compared to that shameless one, Fang Yuan was indeed better.

But was she really that great?

Especially when it came to being a good match for her second son? Lu Lao’er almost wanted to ask, “Aren’t you counting on your son to bring honor to the family?”

Lu Lao’er looked at Old Lady Lu and knew some things were better left unsaid. Stabilizing the situation was the most important thing right now.

[End of Chapter. Please recommend and thank you for your support.]"

"Chapter 13: This One Really Knows What’s Up

Lu Chuan understood very well why his mother was being so sweet to Fang Yuan—this daughter-in-law was truly precious. Back when their family wanted the eldest son to marry this “wild girl,” they’d put in a lot of effort.

So, Lu Chuan, who knew the family’s situation, also knew that this expensive daughter-in-law was carrying the hopes of the whole Lu family. She was someone they couldn’t afford to lose.

Inside the house, Fang Yuan heard what the old lady said and didn’t see anything wrong with it. “Mom’s right. Our mom’s a sensible person.”

The old lady replied, “Of course. From now on, I’ll follow your lead. If I do anything wrong, just tell me and I’ll change. We’re sure to get along well as mother- and daughter-in-law.”

Fang Yuan nodded. “Don’t worry, I’m not the type to hold back if I have something to say.”

Lu Chuan, standing by, could only let out two cold laughs—quiet ones, not daring to make a sound.

But the old lady wasn’t bothered at all. As long as her second daughter-in-law didn’t get physical, and only used her words, she was happy to play along.

Beaming, she said, “Exactly, exactly, that’s what I’m saying. We’ll definitely get along. We still have a few chickens at home. Tomorrow, I’ll have the second son bring over a couple for you to raise. I’ll pick out the ones that lay the best eggs for you.”

Lu Chuan had never seen his mother treat anyone with such flattery in his whole life. She must have been scared out of her wits.

When he escorted his mother out, Lu Chuan had a stern face as he said to her, “You’re really willing to give those away?”

The old lady glanced back at the house before whispering, “It’s no use being stingy. If she finds out tomorrow, she’ll tear down the whole chicken coop. If I offer a couple myself, maybe she’ll leave me two old hens.”

Then she added, “Besides, you’re all my sons. I’m happy to give you food. Second son, your wife might be a bit wild, but she’s smart. Be nice to her, give in a little. Sure, you’re a college student, but Fang Yuan’s right—college students are still students, and they still need to get married.”

She continued, “Our family’s not well-off. Your schooling and marriage have been a headache. But now things are settled, so just treat your wife well and live a good life, okay?”

Thinking of how his own mother was bending over backwards to please Fang Yuan, Lu Chuan felt a pang of bitterness.

The old lady went on, “I know it’s been hard on you, but look around—there are plenty of bachelors in the village who can’t get wives, even though their families are better off than ours. You should be grateful to have a wife, right? Even though you’re a college student, marrying a city girl in the future might not be any better than Fang Yuan.”

Lu Chuan wanted to say, “I didn’t have to spend money to get married,” but now that he’d met someone like Fang Yuan, even if he had the ability, he wouldn’t dare say it.

The old lady spent quite a while outside coaxing her second son before finally saying, “Second son, Fang Yuan really is a good girl. I’m not lying to you.”

Lu Chuan didn’t want to hear any of this. When the eldest got married, the family spent so much money—he knew more about it than anyone. “You should worry about the eldest instead.”

He didn’t want to say another word about it.

His mother had even handed over the right to discipline the children to her daughter-in-law. What was the point of talking about this now?

To his surprise, the old lady nodded. “You’re right. That one in the eldest’s house is no good. I need to keep an eye on her.”

Then she hurried off—not because she trusted her second son, but because she believed his wife was more than capable. If she could handle the whole family, she could certainly handle her husband.

As for the one who refused to leave the house, the old lady really did think there was something off. She still remembered the way she acted when she broke off the engagement with their family.

She’d looked down on them so much back then. Because the eldest had been rejected, the old lady couldn’t hold her head up in the village for days. The eldest’s reputation was so bad, it was hard to find anyone willing to marry him.

Then suddenly, she came back, acting all devoted to the eldest. How could the old lady believe it?

Luckily, there wasn’t much to covet in their family anyway. The old lady knew that—they were truly dirt poor.

So, when she got back from the second son’s house, she pulled her eldest aside and asked, “She must be after something, coming back like this. We don’t have much, so it can’t be our family’s assets. If she was after you as a person, she wouldn’t have broken off the engagement in the first place. You need to think about this.”

The eldest hadn’t even considered this. “Didn’t she say she was pregnant? Otherwise, why would she come back?”

The old lady gave him a couple of punches. “She’s been gone so long and comes back with a baby—who can guarantee it’s yours? Are you stupid?”

The eldest was dumbfounded. Why was she hitting him? It must be because Fang Yuan set a bad example.

The old lady looked at her eldest and decided to keep quiet. They were poor. If this daughter-in-law ran off, her son’s reputation would be ruined, and it would be even harder to find a wife in the future.

With that thought, she just sent her eldest away. What a headache. Maybe being a little slow wasn’t so bad.

Watching her eldest go into the west room was like watching him walk into a den of monsters. She clenched her teeth and thought, as long as there’s no trouble and they can live a good life, the Lu family will accept it. This great old lady was carrying a heavy burden in her heart.

Truth be told, the old lady wasn’t educated, and didn’t know there was a phrase—“endure humiliation for the greater good”—that fit her perfectly right now.

Old man Lu was in the east room, puffing on his pipe. When he saw the old lady come back looking so troubled, he asked worriedly, “Is everything okay with the second son? Did you manage to calm things down?”

The old lady replied, “It’s fine. The second son’s wife is a good one. The second son is clever and knows what’s going on. As long as the two of them don’t make a fuss, it’ll be fine.”

Old man Lu said, “So we really have two daughters-in-law now. I can hardly believe it.”

Then he added, “But what about the second son’s schooling? Won’t he feel wronged, marrying a country girl? Will there be trouble in the future? The Fang family isn’t easy to deal with. We can’t do anything that’ll make people talk behind our backs. I’m really not sure about this, dear.”

The old lady was even more worried than he was. “What can we do? We’ll just have to go with it for now. The eldest really screwed over the second son.”

Old man Lu said, “Look on the bright side—at least our sons have wives now.”

Thinking of both her sons being married, the old lady felt a bit relieved. “Next, we’ll find a wife for the youngest, and then we can finally hold our heads high.”

Old man Lu agreed, “That’s right. Then those gossipy women can’t say our family’s so poor we can’t even get wives for our sons.”

The old lady said, “I’ll finally be able to walk around with my head held high.”

Then the two of them exchanged a glance and sighed, thinking about how the second son would probably have to live according to his wife’s mood from now on.

Whether or not she could hold her head high didn’t seem so important anymore. That night, both the old lady and old man Lu tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

After sending his mother off, Lu Chuan looked at his old house. For the first time, he hesitated at the doorstep, unsure whether to go in or not.

The wedding night was going to be a real problem.

But Fang Yuan didn’t seem to care at all. This shabby house had so much that needed fixing—how could this man not see it?"

"Chapter 14: Too Hasty

Fang Yuan had no idea what “communication between husband and wife” meant. Other people knew that if something bothered them, they should speak up instead of bottling it in.

She called out, “What are you doing out there, stomping on ants? Get in here and tidy up the house! And don’t wait until tomorrow—go bring over the grain and the hens right now.”

Lu Lao’er’s mouth twitched. She really was a force of nature. He replied through the wall, his voice muffled, “We’ve been at it all day. Let’s leave it for tomorrow.”

Fang Yuan glared at him, clearly dissatisfied. “Are you stupid? Can you even count on tomorrow being the same? What if a few hens go missing overnight?”

Lu Lao’er thought to himself, You sounded so convincing when you spoke to my mother earlier, but clearly you never trusted her. “Don’t worry. My mother wouldn’t dare. You’re too formidable.”

Fang Yuan didn’t catch the sarcasm in his words. “It’s not your mother I don’t trust—it’s the one with the shifty eyes, and that other one with no morals.”

Lu Lao’er found her words a bit harsh, but she wasn’t wrong. “Don’t worry. My mother’s even more guarded with outsiders.”

Fang Yuan paused, looking at Lu Lao’er with a serious face. “So should I trust your mother or not?”

Lu Lao’er didn’t bother correcting her for calling his mother “your mother.” If only she’d always use that term, it’d prove he had nothing to do with this woman.

Although this girl seemed decent enough, her headstrong, blunt nature made Lu Lao’er doubt they’d ever get along.

Still, at least she’d come inside. Talking through the wall was inconvenient.

Fang Yuan hated having to use her brain for these things, so she gave Lu Lao’er a piece of her mind: “Next time you speak, be clear. Don’t beat around the bush. I’m not good at reading between the lines. If I misunderstand you and mess things up, don’t blame me—it’s because you didn’t explain yourself.”

Great. So from now on, he’d have to take the blame for everything. Lu Lao’er was left feeling stifled. Fang Yuan’s reputation for being a handful was well-deserved.

Lu Lao’er patiently explained, “We don’t even have a chicken coop here yet. Tomorrow morning, I’ll build one, and then we can bring the hens over.”

Fang Yuan nodded. That made sense. Maybe this man did have some sense after all.

She stopped insisting on bringing the hens over right away. “See? If you’d just said that earlier, I’d have understood. Why go on about trust or not trust?”

Lu Lao’er kept quiet, not bothering to argue. He could see now—this was someone who wouldn’t be reasoned with.

Fang Yuan wandered around the room, directing Lu Lao’er left and right. After a round of fussing, at least the place looked presentable.

Lu Lao’er was sweating from all the work, feeling both physically and mentally exhausted. But when he looked at the newly arranged room, he had to admit it felt a bit cozy, even festive. He stood there in a daze, unable to say a word.

Fang Yuan glanced around, still a bit dissatisfied, but she didn’t fuss any further. “This’ll do. When my parents, big brother, and sisters-in-law come over, at least they won’t feel sorry for me.”

Hearing this, Lu Lao’er felt a pang of guilt. A young woman’s wedding should be a joyful occasion, but with all the drama in his family, any other girl would have been in tears by now. Yet Fang Yuan was still thinking about her own family. He really felt sorry for her.

Thinking of Fang Yuan’s family gave him a headache. He knew they were much tougher than his own eldest brother. The problem was, Fang Yuan had been matched with his older brother, Lu Laoda, and now the groom had been swapped for him. Even though he was getting the short end of the stick, he couldn’t justify it to the Fang family.

His parents had really underestimated how complicated this was. No one in his family was much of a thinker, so Lu Lao’er had to put in extra effort.

The Fang family was famous in the village—their sons were known as the “Five Tiger Generals,” notorious for being tough and hard to deal with. No wonder their daughter had trouble finding a husband.

Fang Yuan might be a bit unruly, but she was capable. The real reason she had trouble marrying was because her parents were so formidable, and she had five or six brothers backing her up, each one tougher than the last. That was the main reason.

When Lu Laoda got engaged to the Fang family, the Lu family had known all this.

Back then, Lu Lao’er had thought his brother needed a strong in-law family to keep him in check. If he had to put up with a little, so be it. At least he’d get a wife.

Now, it was his turn to put up with it, and Lu Lao’er regretted how hasty they’d been in arranging the engagement for Lu Laoda.

Fang Yuan couldn’t stand a man who didn’t know how to read the room. “There’s hot water in the pot. Go wash up. All this stuff is new—don’t go dirtying it.”

Lu Lao’er looked around. Everything in the room was new—he was the only old thing here, completely out of place.

Fang Yuan took her brand-new red double-happiness washbasin, part of her dowry, and confidently went out to wash up.

Lu Lao’er grabbed the old, chipped basin from the old house and washed up in some out-of-the-way corner. He really did look like someone who’d just married into someone else’s family.

And he felt a bit aggrieved, too.

This was supposed to be the Lu family’s house, but somehow he felt like the one who’d married in. He didn’t have the confidence, the presence, or even the hard cash that Fang Yuan did.

Thinking of the hurdle that was the Fang family, Lu Lao’er figured he’d better try to get on Fang Yuan’s good side—at least make things a bit easier to talk about.

No matter how he looked at it, he was the one who’d have to put up with things. He couldn’t tell whether he or Fang Yuan was getting the worse deal.

Lu Lao’er smacked his lips. How was he supposed to live like this?

Even the bedding Fang Yuan would sleep on was laid out by Lu Lao’er himself. He really was just a servant.

After washing up, Fang Yuan confidently climbed into bed. Lu Lao’er was left pacing around the main room.

He wasn’t wondering whether he should go into the newly tidied bedroom—he was wondering if she’d hit him if he didn’t.

When a scholar meets a soldier, reason doesn’t matter. Besides, he wasn’t in the right. He was the one his family had given to Fang Yuan as compensation.

Lu Lao’er’s heart ached. Even when he’d had to quit school because there was no money so his brother could get married, he hadn’t felt this miserable.

Inside the room, Fang Yuan frowned and called out to Lu Lao’er in the outer room, “I won’t call you useless anymore, but you can’t be this hopeless. You drag your feet with everything. What can you actually do?”

That was even worse than being called useless.

Lu Lao’er’s face was a picture. How could this girl have no sense of shame?

And she was shouting so loudly—what if the neighbors heard? He’d die of embarrassment.

Fang Yuan just found Lu Lao’er’s lack of decisiveness annoying. “I told you to wash up, and you’ve been at it forever. When you have to water the fields or carry water, are you going to drag your feet all day?”

This marriage really was unreliable. Fang Yuan was starting to feel dissatisfied with him.

Lu Lao’er finally just marched into the room. He couldn’t let her keep shouting—everyone in the village would hear her at this rate.

He felt awkward. He really shouldn’t have been so reserved with Fang Yuan. He should have just spoken plainly. He hurried into the room and asked, “Where do I sleep?”

That was straightforward enough. Of course, you had to ignore the way he closed his eyes, bracing himself for her verdict."

"Chapter 15: Wishful Thinking Is Useless