My Mother-in-Law is Reborn [Seventies]

Zhuang Zhixi's return sparked a burst of excitement in the courtyard.

Life for ordinary people was monotonous, unlike modern times where a smartphone can keep you informed about the whole world. At this time, the biggest source of entertainment still came from the neighbors, and there weren't many televisions around either. A group of kids, including Tuantuan and Yuanyuan, arrived home from school and spotted their father as soon as they entered the courtyard.

Zhuang Zhixi first went to take a bath, a purely refreshing bath.

This wasn't one of those sleazy massage parlors; it was a proper mechanical factory bathhouse. But things were better now, as there were masseurs available. In the past, this service was prohibited, deemed as exploitation. What was once a pleasant luxury vanished, and masseurs found themselves unemployed.

Now, things had changed. A couple of years ago, masseurs were back in business. Soaking in a warm bath, then lying down for a back scrub and a shoulder massage—it was the perfect way to unwind. Zhuang Zhixi's first order of business upon returning was to take a bath. After traveling by train for several days, he felt like he stank to high heaven.

As soon as he got home, he saw his two kids, along with a group of other children, returning from school. The kids started yelling, and Yuanyuan dashed over, hugging Zhuang Zhixi's leg and cooing, "Daddy, I missed you!"

Tuantuan added, "I missed you too."

Being a boy, he wasn't as straightforward as his sister, but under her influence, he also became quite sweet-talking.

"Uncle Zhuang, hello!"

The group of kids chimed in unison, and Zhuang Zhixi smiled, saying, "Seeing how well-behaved you all are, it was worth the long trip to bring you gifts. Wait here."

Kids sat in a row, eagerly anticipating their treats.

Zhuang Zhixi: "Qingqing and Zhenzhen, here are some hair clips for you."

He took an extra one and handed it to Ye Siyuan, saying, "This is for your little sister, Sitian."

Ye Siyuan replied cheerfully, "Thank you, Uncle."

Zhuang Zhixi: "For the boys, I got you some badges with pictures of Sun Wukong. You can wear them on your shirt."

"Wow, I love Sun Wukong!"

"I want to be the great Sun Wukong!"

The boys jumped around excitedly, with Xiao Qijin putting on a silly performance, hopping around like a monkey.

Zhuang Zhixi distributed the gifts and then pulled out some candy: "Help yourselves, take as much as you can. Don't be shy with Uncle."

"Thank you, Uncle!"

The children were thrilled with their gifts and candy, floating on cloud nine.

Normally, the kids would gather to do their homework together, but since Uncle Zhuang had returned, they all had the sense to go home. Tuantuan and Yuanyuan each clung to one of Zhuang Zhixi's legs, making it difficult for him to move.

"Brother Zhixi."

Zhuang Zhixi saw his wife return and immediately became ecstatic: "Wife, come here quickly."

He exaggeratedly pretended to be held hostage, saying, "Hurry and save me! Look at these two little rascals, they've got me trapped."

Ming Mei rode back, equally happy. The couple had been married for a while, but this was the first time they had been separated for so long. It made them feel an extra bit of longing. She rushed over, and Zhuang Zhixi stretched out his arms to catch her.

Luckily, he was strong; otherwise, this could have knocked him off his feet.

Zhuang Zhixi wrapped his arms around his wife and asked, "Do you miss me?"

Tuantuan and Yuanyuan: =_=

They were still there, you know!

Zhuang Zhixi didn't bother with the kids and smiled, saying, "Let's go home; it's getting cold out here."

Ming Mei teased, "It's not cold. The weather is actually quite nice."

They went into the house together, while Tuantuan and Yuanyuan, though hesitant, couldn't resist the allure of their gifts and followed them inside. Their parents were just too lovey-dovey. They were just kids, after all, and couldn't handle all that sweetness.

Luckily, Zhuang Zhixi didn't do anything too outrageous. Instead, he started rummaging through his bags, saying, "Here, I bought you two new schoolbags, one each."

These were patterned after the most popular cartoon characters of the time, and the kids screamed with delight, holding their bags and hopping around. Though they were in fourth grade, they were still just eleven-year-olds. They had started school quite early.

Zhuang Zhixi: "I also got Yuanyuan a dress and Tuantuan a sailor shirt."

"Brother Zhixi, there's a strange smell in the house."

Ming Mei spoke up, her nose twitching, detecting something unusual.

Zhuang Zhixi: "Oh, I bought a durian. It might smell weird, but it's supposed to taste really good. Look, I got you a dress, a tank top, and also this, a silk scarf."

He made sure to buy a lot during his trip.

Tuantuan and Yuanyuan played with their new clothes in front of the mirror. Yuanyuan's big eyes caught sight of other bags and asked, "Daddy, what's this?"

Zhuang Zhixi: "This isn't for you. It's some bell-bottoms for your grandma to sell at her stall."

Yuanyuan's eyes widened, completely bewildered.

It wasn't that they were easily amazed, but the idea of their grandmother selling at a stall was unheard of! They had seen people selling things, but never an elderly lady.

Zhuang Zhixi seriously explained, "This is for your grandma to sell. I'll help her out when the time comes."

What a good son, indeed.

Zhuang Zhixi: "When I'm old, if you treat me half as well as I treat your grandma, I'll be overjoyed."

Yuanyuan immediately started to pout and say, "Daddy, I won't let you work at a stall. I'll earn a lot of money and give it to you to spend."

Zhuang Zhixi arched an eyebrow. Yuanyuan puffed out her cheeks and insisted, "I'm serious!"

Zhuang Zhixi silently turned away, silently opened his bag, and silently pulled out a pen, saying, "Actions speak louder than words. Write it down and sign your name."

Yuanyuan: "Huh?"

She stared blankly at her father. It wasn't that Yuanyuan intended to renege, but she hadn't expected her father to pull this kind of move. Of course, Daddy would always do things that were so "Daddy." The little girl quickly nodded, "Okay, I'll sign my name and even press my thumbprint."

What a sincere child.

Tuantuan came over and said, "I'll sign too. I can't let my sister sign alone."

It seemed Zhuang Zhixi was determined to secure both of them.

Ming Mei amusedly watched the scene unfold. When she saw Yuanyuan carefully writing her name in the notebook, she finally spoke, "Okay, enough joking around. Your dad was just messing with you. You little naive, how could you take it seriously?"

She wondered if her daughter would fall for scams outside.

Yuanyuan tilted her head and said, "My daddy loves me the most; he wouldn't lie to me."

Zhuang Zhixi patted his daughter's head and said, "My girl is the best. This weekend, Dad will take you out to have some fun."

Tuantuan looked longingly at the scene, and Zhuang Zhixi quickly reciprocated by ruffling the boy's hair, saying, "A man shouldn't be shy about expressing his feelings. What if Daddy forgets to take you?"

Tuantuan also burst into laughter.

Zhuang Zhixi: "Come on, take your things, and let's go distribute the gifts."

"Okay."

The kids responded crisply.

Zhuang Zhixi had bought quite a few gifts. Upon arriving at the main house, he started distributing them. Everyone was gathering at Zhao Guihua's place for dinner, and she had prepared a feast to celebrate her son's return. Everyone got a gift except Liang Meifen.

Zhuang Zhixi straightforwardly said, "Sister-in-law, it's not that I didn't buy something for you. As an uncle buying presents for his sister-in-law, it isn't exactly proper, you know? It just doesn't sound right. Besides, I didn't forget my brother and Hutou and Yanzi."

Liang Meifen didn't take offense at this.

If her husband were on a business trip, he wouldn't buy anything for Ming Mei, either. That just wouldn't make sense, and it would raise eyebrows. So, Zhuang Zhixi's decision not to buy her anything was understandable. Besides, her family already had plenty of gifts to share.

She smiled and said, "I understand. My daughter's scarf, I can borrow it and wear it too."

Xiao Yanzi: "..."

She mumbled, "I don't want to lend it out..."

Liang Meifen: "Hey, you!"

Xiao Yanzi giggled noisily.

Old Man Zhuang, however, was very fond of his tank top, saying, "Oh, these words are so nice."

In reality, what they called tank tops were known as T-shirts. Each one had different words printed on it. Old Man Zhuang was most delighted with the one that read, "Come on, China!"

The older generation can truly appreciate the benefits of New China, as they are the ones who experienced the old society. He selected this one, white with red lettering, though it was a short-sleeve, the elderly man had already put it on.

He stood in front of the mirror, looking left and right, and nodded, saying, "This isn't bad at all."

Zhao Guihua glanced at it and said, "Looks spirited."

Old Man Zhuang immediately laughed, saying, "It's still my old partner who has good taste."

Zhuang Zhiyuan chose a large white one with the word "Struggle." His son, Hutou, didn't like shirts with words, so he picked a turquoise one with patterns. He was delighted, saying, "This is great."

These T-shirts, Zhuang Zhixi had bought in large sizes. In fact, none of his family members were fat, and there weren't many fat people these days, but T-shirts are more comfortable when loose. Besides, large and small sizes cost the same, so why not get the large ones?

Although they're called T-shirts, they can be worn by both men and women. Xiao Yanzi also chose one.

Liang Meifen looked at this with envy, but she really couldn't wear clothes bought by her brother-in-law; it just didn't sound right. However, seeing her daughter get another piece of clothing, she couldn't help but smile. Xiao Yanzi picked a bright red one, happily carrying her gift back home.

Hutou glanced at his dad and said, "Dad, look at how Uncle Zhuang Zhixi brings back so many gifts when he travels. You never bring anything back when you travel."

Condemnation, this is a must.

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "......"

What kind of kid is this?

He pointed at Hutou from a distance, saying, "Who says I didn't bring anything? Didn't I bring you pineapple cakes?"

Speaking of which, Zhuang Zhiyuan usually brings back some local specialty food when he travels to unfamiliar places, but never clothing. This isn't about being stingy; back in the days, buying cloth required tickets.

Even now, the supply and marketing cooperatives still require tickets, although you can buy them without tickets by adding some extra money. However, with tickets, it's still more cost-effective. This is the change over the past two years. Earlier, it wasn't like that. He was willing to spend money to buy, but there were no tickets.

Moreover, they mostly run fixed routes, adjusted every two to three years, so there's no need to always buy from the same place. But hearing his son say this, he felt the need to justify himself.

He snorted and said, "Don't you see the policies are different? If your Uncle Zhixi were to go to other places now, do you think it would be that easy to buy clothes? He's currently in Guangzhou. There are many small factories and private shops in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, which can be privately sold. If it were a place where the policies aren't particularly affected, he couldn't have bought them like this."

Hutou: "I was just joking."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "......"

Zhuang Zhixi laughed, saying, "Brother, look at you. You can see Hutou was just joking. We're all one family; we all know each other. There's no need to explain so seriously."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "......"

Zhuang Zhixi: "By the way, I plan to set up a stall with mom. Do you and Sister-in-law want to join us?"

Zhuang Zhiyuan was stunned; he really hadn't expected this. He felt a bit flustered, saying, "This... you have a good job, why set up a stall? That's something only vagrants do."

Zhuang Zhixi: "Look at your perspective! What do you mean only vagrants do it? There are so many people setting up stalls. On a large scale, it promotes social development, contributing to society's progress; on a small scale, it improves family life and exercises personal abilities. How can you say it's just something vagrants do? That's not right."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "I'm not... I just think..."

He himself couldn't explain it properly, but he did feel it was a bit odd. Hesitating, he said, "Actually, we all have stable jobs, doing this really isn't good."

Zhuang Zhixi: "What's not good about it?"

Seeing the two brothers debate, Zhao Guihua could understand. It wasn't entirely surprising that Zhuang Zhiyuan thought this way, as this is the mainstream mindset. Currently, many people still look down on small individual businesses and stall-keeping for making money. Moreover, the past few years have really scared people, making them fear policy changes, so they naturally resist. Most people would rather work steadily if they have a choice.

Zhuang Zhixi, on the other hand, was more forward-looking. He could see that the policies were changing, becoming more open, not subject to frequent changes. She watched the brothers discuss and spoke up: "This was my idea."

Everyone looked at Zhao Guihua.

Zhao Guihua: "Older son, if you and your wife aren't comfortable with it, you don't have to participate. Actually, it's fine. Zhuang Zhixi and I will set up a stall, with my capital and his. We're mother and son, so we won't split it too clearly; we'll just divide it equally. But don't be jealous when you see us making money, okay?"

Zhuang Zhiyuan immediately responded, "Mom, what are you saying? How could I be jealous? It's not about the money; I'm just not very comfortable with the idea of setting up a stall."

Zhao Guihua: "It's fine; I have a plan."

Perhaps because Zhao Guihua was so calm, and since there were already some stall-keepers on the streets, it wasn't that unusual. Under Zhao Guihua's calm demeanor, everyone didn't say much more.

Liang Meifen: "Mom, if you set up a stall on weekends, I'll come help."

Zhao Guihua looked at her eldest daughter-in-law, who quickly blushed and said, "I'm not after the money, I just want to help out."

Liang Meifen and Zhuang Zhiyuan have been married for over twenty years. She was well aware that Zhao Guihua was not to be trifled with. If you try to scheme against her, you'd better think twice about whether you have the heart to withstand her ire.

So, she was very clear—this old lady, you can't provoke her.

She said she wanted to help, not because she was after anything, but purely felt she needed to help, or else their detachment would make the old lady resent them.

Undoubtedly, Liang Meifen was overthinking.

Zhao Guihua: "No need. Zhuang Zhixi and I will go. You young wives are too concerned about your image."

Ming Mei immediately spoke up: "Mom, I'll go, I'll go. I don't care about image or anything; I think this is quite interesting." She already knew this wasn't a big deal.

Zhao Guihua smiled, saying, "I know you two are reliable, but we really don't need your help. You should do your own thing! Go to work, and take your Sunday rest. Maybe I won't have time to cook for the kids, and you moms can't rely on me as the grandma, can you?"

"Mom, don't worry about that."

"Alright, if you set up a stall, we'll take care of things at home."

The matter was soon settled. Zhou Dianzhu was a bit concerned, saying, "The current policies... it's hard to tell."

Zhao Guihua rolled her eyes: "What's hard to tell? You listen to the radio all day; your knowledge isn't so great. Go, go, don't interfere with me making money. Let me tell you, society is developing, and you'll see, it's only going to get better."

"Alright, it's getting better and better." Zhou Dianzhu couldn't argue with his mother.

Zhao Guihua understood her eldest son's character. He's someone who inherently seeks stability. Such a person may not get rich, but his life is quite good, worry-free, and stress-free. He'll work diligently his entire life, retire with a pension, and collect some rent, which is enough to satisfy him.

Even Liang Meifen is like this. Zhao Guihua didn't particularly admire Liang Meifen, but she had to admit that Liang Meifen was suitable for Zhuang Zhiyuan. She was also the same; in her previous life, Zhuang Zhixin lived much better than her eldest son.

In this era, daring to take risks and striving hard made you stronger than ordinary people.

Even though the two brothers lived quite differently, old man Zhuang and his wife didn't envy them excessively; they could also take it in stride. Life was quite enjoyable. Zhao Guihua felt this was quite rare.

However, due to some minor issues between the two families in earlier years, their interactions weren't very frequent. This might also be the reason why Zhuang Zhiyuan and Liang Meifen didn't envy them.

This life, who can say?

But Zhao Guihua still believed that a person's character doesn't change easily, especially not at the age of forty like Zhuang Zhiyuan. People's personalities were set long ago, unlike children who might take different paths depending on their environment.

She said, "Alright, this kind of thing depends on the individual. If you're not interested, I won't push you. I don't want you to feel uncomfortable. But if you don't join, don't envy those who profit. And don't be jealous. You know me—jealousy won't get you anywhere."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "..."

He gave a helpless smile. "Mom, what kind of person do you think I am? We're a family; there's no room for jealousy here. You wear the hat that fits your head, and you do the job your abilities allow. I just don't think this is something I'm cut out for, so I won't envy others for succeeding."

Zhao Guihua nodded. "Alright, I believe you. And make sure your wife behaves too."

Liang Meifen: "..."

She didn't even say anything, yet here she was caught in the crossfire. Being a daughter-in-law was tough.

She looked up at the sky, feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. How difficult it was to deal with this sharp-tongued mother-in-law.

It was no wonder the two daughters-in-law in this family couldn't outmaneuver Zhao Guihua. Her words, though seemingly cutting, were a deliberate tactic to set the stage. If things went well later, her earlier words would act as a safeguard. Better to speak now than to be caught off-guard later.

Zhao Guihua had calculated the numbers. Based on the cost of goods from the third son, there was no chance of losing money. The only question was how much profit they could make, especially since this was a business trip with no additional travel expenses.

She said, "When it comes to setting up a stall, I must confess, I'm eager to give it a go."

Who says an old woman can't do something?

She could do it too.

Soon, the family had prepared dinner, with fish and meat on the table—a satisfying meal. Zhao Guihua said, "Alright, everyone, take your seats."

The family of ten crowded around the table. Though their meals were usually hearty, tonight was especially special. Hutou, curious, asked, "Uncle, what's the south like? Is it very warm there?"

Zhuang Zhixi nodded. "At noon, we were wearing T-shirts. It's not like that here now. But to be honest, I didn't really get to explore much. This trip was primarily for work. Most of my free time was spent sourcing goods, so I couldn't wander around much. But I did realize that traveling broadens one's horizons. We should plan a trip together when we have the chance."

The children nodded enthusiastically.

Zhuang Zhixi added, "Actually, we could go to Beidaihe in the summer to swim in the sea."

Tuantuan and Yuanyuan's eyes lit up. They loved the idea of traveling. Yuanyuan quickly said, "I want to go! Dad, I'll behave well."

Zhuang Zhixi chuckled. "Alright, behave well, and we'll see."

Zhao Guihua added, "If this stall business earns money, I'll treat you kids to a trip."

The little ones were about to cheer when Zhao Guihua gave them a pointed look. "You better perform well in your final exams."

Tuantuan and Yuanyuan nodded vigorously. "We will!"

They were in fourth grade and doing quite well academically. Hutou, however, felt a pang of envy. It always seemed like he was the one left behind. He was in his final year of high school, and his grades... well, that was a source of anxiety.

How could he not be anxious? Compared to Tonglai, his grades were lagging. And Tonglai doubted himself, so Hutou had even less confidence in himself. It was a constant worry.

The college entrance exam—a source of joy and sorrow.

He slumped his head on the table. "What am I going to do?"

Zhuang Zhiyuan said, "What are you doing? Everyone's happy that your uncle is back. Don't create a scene. Finish your meal and then go home to study."

Hutou: "..."

He sighed deeply. "I really have it tough."

Zhuang Zhixi looked at Hutou sympathetically. When the college entrance exam was reinstated, he too had hesitated about taking it. But after much thought, he decided against it. While there were people older than him who took the exam, Zhuang Zhixi knew that if he did, he would need to dedicate a lot of time to studying. If he got in, his work would also need to be handled, and his family would rely on Ming Mei for four years. His two kids would be in elementary school by then. Though he trusted his parents to help, he didn't want Ming Mei to be overly burdened.

Moreover, it had been years since he last studied, so he wasn't sure he could pass the exam. Even if he did, the job placement might not be much different from what he currently had. Limited by his circumstances, he chose the simplest and most advantageous path.

After brief consideration, Zhuang Zhixi gave up on the idea of taking the exam. But he thought it would be great if Hutou could go to university. This generation's life journey was different. If Hutou could get into university, it would be a significant advantage for his future.

However, Hutou's grades were not promising.

Zhuang Zhixi asked, "Didn't you inquire about the art student route? What did you find out?"

Zhuang Zhiyuan replied, "I asked around. He can apply to art schools. Hutou's got a decent look, but the kid can't act. He stands there like a wooden plank. It's not going to work. Even if he takes the art exam, I doubt he'll pass."

The father was starting to lose hope.

Zhuang Zhixi said, "Practice, then. Regardless of whether he passes or not, it's an opportunity. If he just takes the regular exam, the odds are stacked against him. But if he practices and gets better, who knows?"

Zhao Guihua added, "That's what I think too. Hutou, if you want to go to university, you need to find an alternative path. If you don't pass the exam, you'll have to start working. Do you want to work at the machinery factory as a fitter, or at the train station as a temp? Or like Tonglai, work at the garment factory operating sewing machines? Can you do that?"

Hutou: "..."

The thought alone made his head spin.

Zhao Guihua continued, "Most kids your age in this neighborhood work at the machinery factory. Think carefully—do you want to spend your life there, or can you become a porter like Uncle Daqiang? Even if you wanted to be a chef, Master Li wouldn't teach you his craft. It's a family secret. You need to think hard about this. The only way out for you is through university. I know you're not lazy, but your talents are limited. Still, getting into university will give you more opportunities than just finishing high school. Compared to many others, we already have an advantage. We're from Beijing, after all. We'll find some acting teachers to coach you, and if you pass the art exam and then the cultural exam, you're in."

Hutou, a compliant kid, nodded immediately. "I understand."

Zhao Guihua nodded, feeling relieved. She was glad the art exam and the regular exam were not too close together, leaving them some time to prepare. If it were a few years later, the art exam deadlines would have passed, and if Hutou wanted to take it, he'd have to repeat a year.

In the previous life, Hutou hadn't made it to university. The first one in their courtyard to get into university was Xiao Yanzi.

Speaking of her, the girl had real talent for learning.

Despite being siblings, Hutou couldn't match Xiao Yanzi's academic prowess. This just made Zhao Guihua realize that talent played a significant role in learning. Hutou worked hard and put in a lot of effort, but his grades were always average. No matter how hard he tried, he stayed in the middle. On the other hand, Xiao Yanzi breezed through her exams and got into a prestigious university effortlessly.

Similarly, Zhuang Zhixi's two kids also showed natural talent. Despite their better circumstances—attending cultural palaces and youth centers—their studies never suffered. They did well effortlessly.

This just made Zhao Guihua believe in the concept of natural talent.

Because Hutou wasn't particularly gifted, Zhao Guihua decided to take a different approach. Moreover, they had to thank the fact that it was the 1980s, when many people didn't understand the concept of art exams. As local students, they had the advantage of being able to find professional teachers for guidance, which increased their chances significantly.

"Our family doesn't know anyone in this field, but Uncle Lan has many connections. He has a friend who is a retired professor from the Film Academy. He said he'll take Hutou and Tonglai over there sometime," Zhao Guihua had already planned out her eldest grandson's future.

She firmly believed that if Hutou pushed himself, he might just make it.

In his previous life, Hutou hadn't gotten into university. Instead, he worked as a temporary worker at a machinery factory. However, the young man wasn't fond of that job, so he eventually ended up tagging along with Grandpa Lan. Old Man Lan, despite his age, was always at the forefront of the trendy scene. He set up a recording studio and attracted many young rock enthusiasts who came to record their songs. Hutou decided to quit his job and work as an assistant for Old Man Lan.

Zhao Guihua didn't understand the intricacies of the art world, but she figured that since Hutou had managed to work in a recording studio in his previous life, he should be able to become an actor in this one. She thought it was all the same thing anyway.

This assessment would have certainly raised eyebrows with Old Man Lan if he had known. He would have been quick to point out that they were, in fact, completely different fields. But for the sake of ensuring the children could get into university and have a proper education, Zhao Guihua remained steadfast. "Just follow along with the lessons for now. After graduation, you'll be assigned to a unit, and that will definitely be better than just finishing high school," she urged Hutou.

Hutou nodded silently.

He understood that his family was doing this for his future.

Zhao Guihua: "Alright, let's eat."

Their family was well-off, which made the children less driven. Take Tonglai, for example. This boy had no expectations, knowing that studying was his only way out, so he was incredibly motivated. Although Zhao Guihua hadn't been particularly fond of Tonglai in her previous life, she really liked him in this one.

Jinlai was more like Hutou—not the brightest of kids.

But Tonglai was truly hardworking.

Zhao Guihua: "You and Tonglai should go together and look out for each other."

Hutou: "I understand."

Zhao Guihua smirked to herself, thinking, *Do you even know what you're talking about?*

Tonglai was a very ambitious boy, and being with him might just inspire Hutou a bit.

However, it wasn't Zhao Guihua who set up Hutou and Tonglai to go together. It was Tonglai who approached Lan Sihai himself. That's what made Tonglai so admirable—he was strong-willed and had clear goals. Zhao Guihua truly admired him, not because of his age, but simply because of his character.

She said: "Come, let's eat."

"Brother, eating fish brains makes you smart, let me give you some," Xiao Yanzi offered enthusiastically.

Hutou: "…Why do I feel like you're up to no good?"

Xiao Yanzi: "…What kind of nonsense is that? Isn't that a bit much?"

Huffing, she wasn't intentionally trying to tease her brother, though.

Hutou chuckled and said, "By the way, Uncle, did you get something? I smelled something strange when I went to your place today."

Zhuang Zhixi: "That's because I brought it over. It's that—I bought a durian in Guangzhou."

"A durian?"

Zhuang Zhixi nodded: "It's a kind of fruit. Supposedly imported, it cost twelve yuan, but after half an hour of bargaining, I got it down to seven." He had never tried it before but figured he might as well give it a shot to see if it was any good.

"Did it go bad since it's been there for so long?" Old Man Zhuang wondered.

Zhuang Zhixi: "No, it's supposed to smell like that."

He explained: "I wrapped it in about ten layers. Otherwise, the smell would be even stronger. I didn't want to bother people on the train, so I wrapped it up extra. After dinner, everyone can try some."

"Sounds good."

Although everyone agreed, their expressions betrayed their skepticism. It wasn't that they doubted Zhuang Zhixi; it was just that the smell was… overpowering. Zhuang Zhiyuan, who had a bit more experience, vaguely remembered hearing about it before, but Liang Meifen was convinced that Zhuang Zhixi had been scammed. Spending seven yuan on something that smelled so disgusting? That must be madness!

Still, she didn't say anything to Zhuang Zhixi, as it wasn't her money.

Everyone had their own thoughts, but they weren't exactly excited about this smelly, oddly named fruit called durian. Only Zhao Guihua seemed to maintain her cheerful expression.

Ming Mei glanced at her mother-in-law and immediately understood from her expression that she must like it. After all, her mother-in-law was different from them—her experiences were vast.

Ming Mei, seeing her mother-in-law's excitement, also became more eager. She suggested, "Why don't we eat it tonight?"

At that price, it couldn't be bad, right?

Zhuang Zhixi: "Sure."

He stood up: "I'll peel it open."

Zhuang Zhixi quickly began peeling away layer after layer, just like peeling an onion. To minimize the smell, he had wrapped it in about ten layers. As he opened each layer, Liang Meifen quickly added, "Don't tear it too small, old third, it can be used to light fires."

In those days, old newspapers were valuable; Zhuang Zhixi wouldn't have gotten them unless he had stayed in a high-end hotel and attended a conference.

Zhuang Zhixi: "I know."

Indeed, the extra layers did help a bit. As he opened each layer, the smell became even stronger, especially since it wasn't the season to open windows and doors. The scent became quite overwhelming.

Even though Zhuang Zhiyuan had heard of it before, he found it hard to take, saying, "I can't believe you didn't get a bad one. This smell is just… not good."

Zhuang Zhixi, unsure himself since it was his first time buying the fruit, hesitantly replied, "The smell is supposed to be that strong."

At the store, he didn't notice such a strong smell because it was placed at the entrance. Now that it was inside the room and had been sealed for a while, the smell was much more intense.

He peeled layer by layer, his hesitation growing more apparent with each one, until it was fully opened. The others, stepping back one by one, tried to distance themselves as much as possible. Tuantuan and Yuanyuan, being kids, pinched their noses and sat as far away as possible on the kang (a traditional Chinese platform bed).

Zhuang Zhixi: "This…"

He poked the spiky exterior of the durian, saying, "I guess I'll…"

Zhao Guihua fetched a basin and said, "Let me handle it."

Seeing the doubts on Zhuang Zhixi's face—and noticing everyone, including the children, pinching their noses in disapproval—Zhao Guihua stepped in. If she didn't vouch for it, no one would believe it was good.

"What are those faces for?" Zhao Guihua asked, slicing into the durian.

And to her surprise, the durian was excellent—large, full, and with seven distinct sections of flesh. Zhao Guihua couldn't help but nod repeatedly, commenting, "This is really good."

Zhuang Zhixi: "???"

Ming Mei quickly came over, peeking curiously. Though the smell was strange, it wasn't entirely unpleasant.

Old Man Zhuang, seeing Zhao Guihua scoop out the flesh, looked even more disgusted, muttering, "And it's yellow…"

Zhao Guihua rolled her eyes: "Look at all of you, this fragrant thing, and you don't know what's good. What are you all holding your noses for? I'll try a piece."

Zhuang Zhixi: "Mom!"

At this point, it became clear just how much his mother believed in him. If it had been anyone else, they wouldn't have thought it was good, but his mom stepped up. Truly, she was the best mother.

He was deeply touched.

He said, "Mom, what if it's not good…"

Zhao Guihua shot him a look and said, "How could it not be good? The smell alone tells you it's delicious."

She really hadn't eaten durian in over a decade. Come to think of it, Zhao Guihua really did have a thing for this fruit. However, returning to this time, even eating fine grains every meal was beyond her means, let alone such a rare fruit. Truthfully, durian only became a hot commodity in fruit stores a decade or so later. In an unexpected turn of events, Zhuang Zhixi had bought a durian. Zhao Guihua was quite pleased, feeling a rare connection with her son.

She picked up a piece and took a bite, enjoying it immensely.

She nodded repeatedly and said, "Delicious!"

"Really?" Even Old Man Zhuang seemed skeptical. He wondered if his wife was just defending their son. After all, if it wasn't good, that would be seven wasted yuan, and seven yuan back then was no small sum. Plus, it would be embarrassing.

Zhuang Zhixi himself was thinking the same thing, watching his mother closely. "Mom, if it's not good..."

He didn't get to finish before being interrupted by Zhao Guihua. "How could it not be good? It's really delicious! Come on, everyone try some. If you don't like it, don't eat. It'll save more for me. I really like this."

She took another big bite, thoroughly satisfied.

Who would have thought she'd be eating durian in the eighties? It was quite something.

Ming Mei watched her mother-in-law enjoying the fruit and decided to give it a try herself. "I'll try some too."

She didn't dare take too much at once, picking up a small piece and gently taking a bite. She murmured softly, then nodded. "The taste is a bit strange, but it's not actually smelly. It's really good."

"Mommy, I want to take a bite too."

Yuanyuan came up, watching as her grandmother started on her second piece. She believed this fruit really was delicious. After getting used to the smell, it didn't seem bad at all. She took a bite and nodded. "It's good!"

"Then I'll try too."

Tuantuan and Yuanyuan were twins, but their tastes were different. While Yuanyuan found the flavor acceptable, Tuantuan shook his head. "I don't like it."

He looked at his sister suspiciously, wondering if she was trying to trick him into eating it.

Yuanyuan widened her eyes, their roundness accentuated as she let out a loud "Hmph!" and said, "I'm not that kind of person! I really think it's good. Would Mommy or Grandma lie to us?"

Ming Mei nodded. "It's good."

After the first bite, she felt fine, and by the second bite, she found the flavor quite enjoyable. She quickly adapted, finding it not smelly at all but rather sweet and pleasant. Ming Mei and Yuanyuan were firm in their opinions, which left everyone else with a suspicious eye. Everyone tried a piece, and most didn't like the taste.

Zhuang Zhixi himself didn't like the flavor but said, "The shopkeeper said some people really like it, while others don't."

Yuanyuan: "Daddy, aren't you going to eat any?"

Zhuang Zhixi shook his head. "You all enjoy it."

He was now wondering if his mom, wife, and daughter were all saying it was good just to save his face.

Touched, he looked at them, feeling the warmth of family unity.

Tuantuan: "???"

Why was his dad suddenly so moved?

He was utterly confused.

Zhuang Zhiyuan couldn't take the smell; he genuinely didn't like it.

Not only him, but the rest of his family didn't enjoy it either. The strong smell and yellowish color made it hard for them to take. With no one else eating, Zhao Guihua, Ming Mei, and Yuanyuan gathered together, enjoying the durian feast.

Yuanyuan: "Mmm, it's getting better with each bite."

She glanced up. "Brother, aren't you going to eat any?"

Tuantuan: "No, thank you."

With determination.

Hutou coughed, suddenly getting up. "I think I'll go back and study. With only a few months left before the college entrance exam, I can't afford not to."

He quickly left.

Xiao Yanzi saw this and quickly followed her brother. "Even though I'm only in my first year of high school, I need to work hard. Just relying on hard work in the third year of high school won't be enough."

These two couldn't stand the smell and fled quickly.

Zhao Guihua waved her hand. "If you're not used to it, go back. Stop affecting my appetite. I think you all just don't have the palate for it. If it's so delicious and you can't enjoy it, I wonder what you can enjoy. Go, go."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "Hey, Mom, you really think it's good?"

He tried a piece and couldn't handle it.

Zhao Guihua: "What? Do you think I'm pretending? Am I an idiot?"

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "Of course not."

He added, "People's tastes are just different. It's like our local stinky tofu—some people love it, while others can't stand it. Those who love it really do. Those who don't, well, they really can't. But once you get used to it, it actually tastes quite good."

Zhao Guihua nodded. "That's true."

Zhuang Zhiyuan smiled.@@novelbin@@

Reflecting on this, it was truly remarkable how varied people's tastes could be. How could his mother enjoy this? Leading his wife, he quickly left. Liang Meifen muttered softly, "I don't think Ming Mei genuinely likes it. She just likes to flatter her mother-in-law. That's why she said it was good."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "Why would you say that? My sister-in-law isn't that kind of person. Besides, could a little kid like Yuanyuan lie?"

He was speechless, staring at his wife. "You really shouldn't think that way about others."

Liang Meifen: "..."

Clearly, my sister-in-law is just good at flattering.

She said, "Why don't you believe me? Ming Mei is a sycophant."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "She's just sweeter-talking. But you flatter too."

Liang Meifen: "..."

Forget it!

The couple went home, and Liang Meifen started changing her clothes. "I feel like my clothes stink now. I'm going to wash them."

Zhuang Zhiyuan: "Go ahead, I can't stand it either."

Liang Meifen: "..."

Hmph, men!

Why didn't you say that before?

You were just babbling about taste differences.

Clearly, you didn't like the smell either.

Zhuang Zhiyuan and his family left, and Zhuang Zhixi took the initiative. "I'll go throw the shell away. This stuff leaves a strong smell at home."

He cleaned up, joking, "Speaking of which, I bet this thing would hurt if you hit someone with it."

"Isn't that obvious? Just touch it and you'll know how hard it is."

Zhuang Zhixi: "Mom, this is useless now, right?"

Zhao Guihua: "Nothing to use it for, just throw it away."

Zhuang Zhixi nodded, then tidied up and went outside. Old Man Zhuang: "Don't close the door. The smell in the house is strong. Let it air out."

"Okay."

Zhuang Zhixi carried the durian shell outside. Lan Sihai covered his nose and peeked out. "What are you doing, kid? This smell is unbearable."

Zhuang Zhixi: "I bought some fruit shells. I'm just going to throw them away."

He said, "Grandpa, why don't you come over and try some? Mom's eating..."

Lan Sihai decisively refused. "Not interested."

The moment he smelled it, he knew he didn't like it. He wasn't the impulsive type.

"Just throw it away quickly. Ugh, the smell."

Zhuang Zhixi defended, "The smell isn't great, but it's delicious to eat."

Lan Sihai: "Not for me."

As the two were talking, not just their house, but the Zhou family next door could smell it. Aunt Zhou and her family had just finished dinner and were watching TV. She muttered, "Are the Zhuangs cooking... um, something? This smell is terrible."

Xiao Qijin, who was listening closely, said, "No, it's fruit."

Aunt Zhou: "You see, this is why I say young people are unreliable. Look at Zhuang Zhixi. He's still too young. He didn't think about it—traveling so far on a train for days, how could he buy fruit? If it didn't spoil, that would be strange. Now look, money wasted, and the fruit stinks. The smell... he's really messing things up."

Zhou ​​‌‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌​‌‌​​​‌​​​‌‌‌​​‌​​‌‌​‌​​​​‌‌​‌‌​​‌‌​​‌​​​‌‌​​‌​‌​​‌‌​‌‌‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​​‌‌‌​​‌​‌‌​​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌​​​‌‌​​‌​‌​​‌‌​‌​​​​‌‌‌​​​​​‌‌​‌​‌​​‌‌​‌‌​​​‌‌​‌‌‌​​‌‌​​​​​​‌‌​‌‌‌​‌‌​​‌​‌​‌‌​​‌​​​‌‌​​​​‌‍Qun: "That's why I say Zhuang Zhixi is still young. If it were me, I definitely wouldn't do something so embarrassing. Ugh, why is he standing under our window chatting?"

He opened the window directly. "Zhuang Zhixi, can't you throw that stuff away before you start talking?"

Zhuang Zhixi: "Sure."

He shook it a bit, saying, "I'll just..."

"Wait!"

Zhou Qun suddenly fixated on the durian shell, saying, "This thing, not bad at all."

Zhuang Zhixi: "???"

Zhou Qun: "Give it to me, I'll help you throw it away."

Zhuang Zhixi: "?????"

Didn't you just find this smell repulsive a moment ago?

Zhuang Zhixi looked at Zhou Qun and asked, "What are you planning? Not up to any good, are you?"

Zhou Qun: "How could I be that kind of person? Why would you think that? I'm just trying to help you throw this away!"

Zhuang Zhixi: "Alright, but I think you're up to no good. Don't drag me into your mischief."

Zhou Qun: "Of course not, I wouldn't involve you."

He beckoned with his finger, and Zhuang Zhixi leaned in, "What's up?"

Zhou Qun: "That Su Jinlai next door has been way too arrogant lately. I want to teach him a lesson. This little punk actually dares to act high and mighty in our courtyard. Don't you think I should teach him a lesson?"

There could only be one top dog in this courtyard.

Su Jinlai had been looking down his nose at Zhou Qun lately, showing him zero respect. Zhou Qun wasn't someone to be trifled with. This durian shell would be perfect—it would leave him with a thousand scars, just like rain drops on a sandy beach.

Zhuang Zhixi: "Whoa, if that's what you're planning, I definitely can't give it to you. If you use this on him and then drag me into it, I'm not getting involved in your petty squabbles."

Zhou Qun: "But he doesn't respect you either!"

Zhou Qun continued, "Look, we're both uncles in this courtyard. If he doesn't respect us, are you just going to let it slide? Where's your backbone?"

Zhuang Zhixi chuckled and said, "I don't think much of him either. It's the same for both of us. I'm not going to bother with him."

He said, "I'm going to throw this away."

He picked up the durian shell and walked out the door. He was definitely going to throw it away, but if Zhou Qun ended up picking it up himself, that was his problem. Zhuang Zhixi wasn’t getting involved in any of this. Moreover, with Su Jinlai looking like he'd been sucked dry by a vengeful spirit, Zhuang Zhixi really didn't see the point in doing anything to him.

Zhuang Zhixi went out to dispose of the garbage.

Little did he know, this piece of garbage had caught the eye of more than one person. Bai Fendou was peering out the window, saying, "I think this thing is pretty useful."

He Lan: "?????"

She was puzzled, "It's stinky, what's so good about it?"

Bai Fendou muttered to himself, "It's both stinky and spiky, that's what makes it useful. I can pick it up and use it to teach Guan Guiling a lesson."

Today, when he got off work, he unexpectedly ran into Guan Guiling. The woman looked so old she was almost unrecognizable, her face sickly yellowish-white. It was clear she wasn't in good health. And she actually tried to lean on him! Obviously, she was trying to set him up for some kind of scam.

Even though it had been years since they last saw each other, Bai Fendou knew this woman was always trying to pull scams. Over the years, she'd been beaten up several times because of these antics.

This piece of information came from Ming Mei, through some neighborhood gossip.

So, he smartly moved away immediately. But thinking about it, he got angry. He and Guan Guiling had had their ups and downs, but he was the one who ended up losing out. Now she was trying to scheme against him? He felt he should also teach her a lesson.

He Lan grabbed him, saying, "Forget it, don't get involved with that woman. What if she tries to pin something on you?"

"She won't know it's me. I was thinking of filling that shell with poop and tossing it into her house."

He Lan: "……"

Silence. Pure silence.

She said, "Don't do that, it's too gross. Just let it go."

Meanwhile, as He Lan was trying to talk Bai Fendou out of his scheme, Su Jinlai also got his eyes on this "weapon." Leaning his head against the window, he said, "I think this thing with such a stench could actually come in handy, Tonglai. Go get it for me."

Tonglai: "?????"

He tried to reason, "Brother, don't mess around! You..."

Before he could finish, Jinlai was already furious, "I can't just let those three old women have their way with me for nothing! I must teach them a lesson!"

Tonglai: "…But they're already gone. Besides, it wasn't for free, you got a thousand bucks out of it!"

Jinlai shouted, "Can money ease my pain?! They may be gone, but the room they stayed in is still there. I'm going to throw stinky fruit into that room!"

Tonglai finally couldn't hold it in: "Aren't you just being ridiculous?"

What kind of nonsense is this!