21-30

Chapter 21

As dusk deepened, the crowd dispersed, and the doorway of Chen's house returned to purity.

Everyone in the Chen family sat at the table, looking at the coins poured out of the money box. The audible clattering sound was the sound of money.

Pile like a high hill.

I have counted money so many times, but today, the mountain of money is the highest.

The snowskin mooncakes cost ten cents each. Those who wanted to buy them had enough money in their pockets and paid the full price on the spot. Those who did not have enough money also ran back home to get the money.

In addition to the ten children of the Shen family, there are three people from neighboring villages and two from this village, a total of fifteen people.

It's more than one tael of silver, plus the profit from today's stall, it's definitely 1,500 yuan.

"Count, let me count for the first time." Old man Chen swallowed nervously, his hands shaking slightly, so much money.

Father Chen was quite calm: "I'll count the second time."

"I'll count the third time." Chen Yuanqiu raised his hand.

Chen Yuping said: "My father, father, and brother are here to count the money, so I don't have to count it. I'll go into the kitchen and have a look. I'm going to make a lot of snowskin mooncakes tomorrow, so I have to prepare them in advance."

"Okay, we're done here. I'll help you." Old Man Chen responded.

Chen Yuanqiu answered: "I will also help Third Brother." After eating Third Brother's cakes for several months, I thought it was all money, so I was embarrassed.

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, there were a few days of good sunshine.

Father Chen thought about drying some vegetables. There are not many vegetables in winter, so he took them out to change the taste.

There was Lao Yanyan at home, so Chen Yuping thought about making some Lao Tan pickled vegetables and stewed fish to make it particularly appetizing.

Things in the kitchen are trivial and numerous, and they are as busy every day. Once it becomes a habit, I feel less tired.

Get up early to steam steamed buns and cook braised pork trotters. With these three things, breakfast is much simpler. Sometimes it's noodles, sometimes it's steamed buns, and occasionally I cook some porridge, or I'm lazy and just eat steamed buns with shrimp paste, whatever my whim is. I can make something more laborious, such as crispy meatloaf, leek and egg pancakes, dumplings or wontons, etc.

Braised pork and braised pork trotters are time-consuming, but fortunately you don't have to sit in front of the stove all the time.

If you have a cow at home, you should prepare braised pig intestines.

Recently, we have to prepare dried vegetables and sauerkraut, so Chen Yuping thinks to postpone it for a few days until he is busy with all the chores in the house.

When the two brothers Chen Yuanqiu and Chen Yuandong had free time, they would go into the mountains to cut bamboo, drag it home and cut bamboo sticks. They saved a big bundle at home. When the sun was good, they boiled it in a pot to sterilize it, and then left it in the sun for a whole day.

When he went to town to buy pig intestines, Chen Yuping bought several hundred more aniseed ingredients. The previous two hundred wen of aniseed ingredients had been used up and there was very little left.

This time when he was buying aniseed, he did not avoid his father. Father Chen looked at it and said nothing. After seeing it these days, he already knew that his third son's food was delicious and that these aniseeds were very big. Hero.

"Just in case, don't buy from one shop, buy from several shops." Father Chen also reminded his son in a low voice: "Our family's business is very prosperous, and I don't see anyone buying in their own house." Setting up a stall here will allow people to come and go, but I am afraid that someone will have bad intentions."

Chen Yuping had been on guard for a long time. Hearing what his father said, he nodded obediently: "Fortunately, my father reminded me."

"You, it's okay. He is small, has little experience, and must be wary of others. "

It is convenient to have an ox cart at home. This ox is young and can walk very slowly. It only takes half an hour to go back and forth from the village to the town." Walking is much faster.

When the two brothers Chen Yuanqiu and Chen Yuandong went into the mountains to fetch fish cages, they could also hitch an ox cart. After fetching the fish cages, they could bring back several bundles of firewood, and they could also carry two sticks of bamboo, killing three birds with one stone.

The Chen family bought cattle, and the villagers and neighbors were also very excited, which meant that braised pig intestines would be sold at the stall soon.

Waiting and waiting, hoping and hoping, I stretched my neck a little bit, and finally I got the news that the stall would start selling braised pig intestines on August 22nd.

The braised pig intestines cost one penny per skewer, which is much more affordable than the braised pork trotters with braised pork. Not only is it spicy and refreshing, but it also has a large portion, which is enough for two or three bites. It is a great value for one penny per skewer!

Chen Yuping is not worried at all about the braised pig intestines business. When he went to town to buy pig intestines yesterday, he bought all the pig intestines in the town.

The father and son were busy cleaning the pig intestines, and Chen Yuanqiu was also helping. The three of them worked for a full two hours before cleaning them up.

If pig intestines weren't cheap, I wouldn't want to sell them for a penny a bunch. It's really troublesome to clean, and I feel so happy when I count the money. Hahahahaha, it hurts and makes me happy.

"The second uncle's stall sells braised pig intestines? I smelled the fragrance from afar, please give me two skewers."

He is the eldest son of the third brother's family. Father Chen knew this nephew well and kindly reminded him: "Braised pig intestines" It has a strong intestinal taste and is spicy. You should take it easy if you have a weak stomach."

"Second uncle, I don't want to eat it. Brother Qing wants to eat it."

Shunzi got married at the beginning of this year. Brother Qing is his son, and he will be pregnant. Almost three months old.

Chen Yuping also knew that his cousin was going to be a father: "Brother Shun has braised pig intestines with aniseed in it. It's good to satisfy his cravings, but he can't eat more when he's pregnant."

"Is there anything else?" Shunzi scratched his forehead, a little confused. .

"Just go to Shenjiawu and ask Dr. Shen and you will know."

Dr. Shen from Shenjiawu is really capable. He is better than the doctors at many medical clinics in the town. The villagers from the surrounding villages all like Shenjiawu when they get sick. Go, it's a little more expensive than the medical clinic in town, but the effect is quick. One dose of medicine for minor ailments, and only three doses for more serious illnesses. I have never seen any mistakes.

To say the least, the children of the Shen family are wealthy. In the entire Shen family, some are good at business, some are good at reading, some are good at making wine, and are good at medicine, etc. Anyway, they are more capable than ordinary people.

Shunzi is the one who opened the business today. Not long after he left, several waves of people came one after another. They all heard that braised pig intestines were available and came here specifically to buy braised pig intestines.

I bought a lot of shrimp paste steamed buns, followed by five-spice tea eggs, braised pork and braised pork trotters, which were a bit left out.

"One penny for a penny sells faster." When there was no one in front of the stall, Mr. Chen glanced at the money box and smiled until thin smile lines appeared at the corners of his eyes: "It's just a shallow layer."

Liu Guixiang smiled and said, "It's better to sell quickly. If you finish shopping early and close the stall early, you can also go visit and chat. Dad hasn't been out and about for a few days."

"Indeed, this stall is stumbling, but I'm not tired."

The two of them were talking and someone else came.

One morning passed, the braised pig intestines were sold out, the shrimp paste steamed buns were also sold out, there were a few spiced tea eggs left, the braised pork and braised pig trotters were sold out slowly, but the portions were small, so they were sold out successfully.

There was a strong aroma of rice in the village, and just as it was about to have lunch, someone came in a hurry.

"Are there any braised pig intestines? I want to buy twenty skewers."

"No more, only six spiced tea eggs left." Father Chen came out to greet him. He recognized this person. There is a village below Kuzhu Village called Pingyuan Village. , a small gambling house opened in the village. People from the gambling house often come to buy food. There was a quarrel in the front. Several people smelled of alcohol and seemed to have drunk a little too much. They were playing tricks in front of the stall and wanted to eat for free. When he paid, he didn't say anything, and the village neighbors got angry at him. He paid the money and ran away in despair.

"It's gone so soon?"

"It's gone." Father Chen was too lazy to pay attention to these gamblers.

"Are there any left in the afternoon?"

"No."

"You're open for business, why don't you make more?"

"There are only five-spice tea eggs left, do you want to buy them?" Father Chen was a little impatient.

Maybe the gambler noticed it, and hesitated and said, "Okay, give me all the eggs." After paying the money and taking the eggs, he was heard muttering dissatisfiedly: "I finally made some money, but I didn't." It's really unlucky to buy braised pig intestines. Bah!"

Chen Yuping happened to see this man spitting on the ground and frowned: "Dad, the town doesn't care about the gambling house?"

"It's just lax control. , the official came over, they got the letter and cleaned up. "

"Don't look at him living a comfortable life, but the family is miserable. He only relies on one brother to support the family. He has an old mother and two children. I can't control them. Such people shouldn't get married. Speaking of which, Ershanzi and Shuwa in our village are pretty good. At least they don't gamble and bring trouble to the widow's family. They just pick on the weak and poor people to bully them. When we came back to make trouble, we didn't let it happen, so we learned to be honest. If we let them succeed once, there will be no end to it."

Father Chen said with a serious face: "Brother Ping, if you encounter this group in the future. Gambler, don't give me a hard time."

"Don't worry, Dad."

Chapter 22

Braised pig intestines have attracted a lot of popularity, and more and more people from neighboring villages come to buy braised pig intestines. Some people also buy some shrimp paste steamed buns or spiced tea eggs. Even braised pork and braised pig trotters are also showing signs of rejuvenation.

The business at the stall has been rising in a straight line, and it seems prosperous and stable.

I have recently saved a few jars of shrimp paste, increased the portions of shrimp paste steamed buns, and increased the portions of five-spice tea eggs. The braised pork and braised pig's trotters have returned to the past, with 20 kilograms of meat and two pairs of pig's trotters each.

I set up a stall at home and the business was pretty good. I stopped going to the market on every seventh day. Over the next few months, my reputation was completely established. Everyone in the surrounding villages knew that the Chen family had set up a stall selling food. It didn't matter whether they went to the market or not. .

Every morning, Chen Yuanqiu would drive an ox cart to the town to buy pig intestines. If he met someone buying shrimps, he would buy some at a good price.

The shrimp paste steamed bun business is doing well, but it is almost unsustainable just relying on our own fish cages.

After buying it a few times, everyone knew that he would buy shrimps every time he came by without looking at them. If he had fresh shrimps in his hand, I could buy them for him at a few cents cheaper, and he could go home early.

In September, there is a slight chill in the air in the morning and evening, and the quilt feels thin when sleeping at night.

Father Chen peed Brother Cao and put him in the basket: "We have to start buying thicker autumn clothes. Brother Cao needs to buy them both inside and outside."

"Shall we go to town in the afternoon?" Chen Yuping glanced at the stall: "It should be sold out before lunch. Let's go have lunch and come back before evening."

"I think it will work."

He only learned how to drive the ox cart that Father Chen drove in the past two days. He can drive the ox cart steadily. Steady.

Chen Yuping held Brother Cao in his arms. Brother Cao was a well-behaved baby who was very easy to take care of. He would only open his mouth and cry when he was hungry or wet. After crying a few times, he attracted the attention of adults. He stopped crying. The little person seemed to be a governor, and even more loved by his family.

"Our business doesn't look big. We sell for one, two, and three cents. In just a few months, we have actually saved a lot of money." It was only when Mr. Chen took the money that he realized that in just half a year, his family's wealth had become richer. I saved money all year long in previous years. "In the meantime, we also bought a cow."

"Are you satisfied now?"

Father Chen looked at the smile on his third son's face and said cheerfully: "I have no future, I really feel very good about it. Satisfied. "If the third son and the fourth son can get married, this life will be completely comfortable.

"I'm still thinking about building a triple courtyard. I think the courtyard of the village chief's house is good. It will definitely be comfortable to live in."

"You really dare to think that a triple courtyard will cost a lot of money."

Chen Yuping raised his eyebrows: "Dad, just If we can do good business at our stall, it won't work next year, but it will definitely work the year after."

"That's really good." Dad Chen made a rough guess and said, "You can build on it if you want. There is a good piece of land next to our house. "It's spacious enough. If you really want it, let's talk to the village chief in advance and ask him to help keep it."

"I really like the open space next to our old house. It's close to my home. I like it."

After talking about the house and thinking about the future, the father and son started talking about trivial matters at home again.

Chen Yuping said: "Dad, do you know how big the clothes my father and brother are going to wear? When we enter the town, our whole family will buy them, two sets of clothes, shoes and socks each. We will spend all the money we earn." It's so boring to make money."

"You just said you wanted to build a three-way house, so why are you spending so much money? It's because of your thoughts. No matter how good the business is, it's not difficult to build a three-way house.

" Believe me, the construction will probably start next year, and it will be completed in one go during the winter."

Father Chen laughed at him: "Just brag, Brother Cao is watching."

"Brother Cao, you are right. Right?" Chen Yuping lowered his head and teased Brother Cao.

As soon as Brother Cao heard him speak and saw a smile on his face, he also laughed, his eyebrows curved like shallow crescents.

"Look, Dad, Brother Cao believes in me. Look how good his smile is."

"Silly son."

In the end, Father Chen couldn't defeat his silly son, so he bought new clothes for the whole family. However, each person only had one suit. Except Brother Cao'er, the little guy bought a lot of things.

Today's tasks were not heavy. After buying clothes and shoes, it was still very early. The father and son walked around the town slowly and leisurely. They usually come and go in a hurry, and they didn't take a good stroll.

After walking around for a while, I realized that the town was actually far more prosperous and lively than the average small town.

After finishing our shopping, it was almost evening and we drove the ox cart back home.

Thinking of building a Sanheyuan next winter, Chen Yuping has become more concerned about making money. Now the stall is doing well, including steamed buns with shrimp paste, braised pork trotters, braised pork intestines with five-spice tea leaves and eggs. The five kinds of food are not bad. many.

The weather in September is neither too hot nor too cold, the temperature is just right.

Chen Yuping used to like to eat red fermented bean curd. He watched a lot of videos to learn how to make it. The tastes are different. He is very experienced. With experience and a cheat-like golden finger, he can imagine the red bean curd coming out. Finally, it can also sell very hotly.

There is tofu sold in the village. First, buy flat tofu and put it in the vent for a few days.

Old man Chen asked casually: "Are you thinking about new food? Are you going to sell it on the stall?"

"Well, if I can do it, I plan to sell it on the stall."

"In this case, we can make tofu ourselves. This was not difficult for me when I was young. " I know

how to make tofu."

"I don't know how many times your father has eaten it. He's tired of it. He can't make much money, so he doesn't make any more money."

Father Chen praised. My father is very good at making tofu. There is no need to buy anything. We have it at home. We can wash and dry it tomorrow and then we can start making tofu

. There is hope!" The happiest person is Chen Yuanqiu. In the world of foodies, having delicious food is happiness.

Old man Chen looked at his younger son: "Grind the beans later."

"No problem at all!"

The fermented bean curd that Chen Yuping likes to eat has two flavors. One is delicate and soft, with a mellow flavor. This fermented bean curd is on the lighter side, and the other is spicy. Fresh and fragrant, tender and smooth.

One plate of tofu, two flavors.

Fermented bean curd is no different from other foods. It needs enough time to slowly ferment, and a unique and charming flavor is achieved little by little. Those who love to eat it can't stop thinking about it and can't forget it, while those who can't stand the taste find it particularly smelly.

Chen Yuanqiu watched eagerly as his third brother put the fermented bean curd into a jar and sealed it tightly. He was a little disappointed: "How long will it take before we can eat it?"

"We have to wait, at least we won't be able to eat it this month."

"Oh." After a while, Chen Yuanqiu said He ran over again and asked, "Third brother, what does it taste like?"

"I don't know either. I won't know until I have time to open the jar and taste it."

Chen Yuanqiu smacked his lips: "It must be delicious. Third brother cooks it and you can eat it." There's nothing that's not delicious, and it's definitely going to be particularly delicious this time. Alas, I just can't imagine it." He licked his lips, it would still take another month, and it suddenly felt so long.

Chen Yuchun also felt that the days were long. Brother An had a cold. It had been almost three days and he was still not feeling better. Da Zhuang also had a cough.

Zhang Zhiwei talked to him again: "Brother Chun, let's let Da Zhuang stay with the Chen family for a few days. If this continues, what will happen if Da Zhuang also gets sick?"

"Why didn't you tell Da Zhuang to stay with him for a few days?" Go back to the old house?" Chen Yuchun, who was in an anxious mood, spoke with anger. "When I said that I wanted to build a new house next to Chen's house, they were the two of them who refused to let me go. They said it would be better to take care of each other, bah!"

"If you are willing, I will put Da Zhuang in the old house. " His grandpa and grandpa took care of him."

Chen Yuchun fell silent and didn't speak for a while.

Chapter 23

When he first came to Chen's house, Brother Cao was taken to bed by Father Chen. Chen Yuping thought that he had to raise Brother Cao, so he slowly learned how to take care of the baby, and gradually learned all the trivial things about Brother Cao. In one's own hands.

Taking him to bed at night was a bit uncomfortable at first, but fortunately, Brother Cao was well-behaved, and he was able to be a new father quite easily.

The little baby woke up early. After waking up, he didn't cry or fuss. He opened his big eyes and gnawed his hands or held his little feet. He was very quiet.

Chen Yuping sometimes wakes up early, and sometimes falls asleep deeply when he is too tired.

He woke up early this time. He was disturbed by external forces and woke up abruptly from his deep sleep.

Brother Cao will turn over!

Chen Yuping rolled over and pressed on Chen Yuping's face. His soft body covered his face, making him breathless.

The moment he woke up, his face turned pale with fright, and he quickly held Brother Cao in his arms to check if he was okay.

Brother Cao, who didn't understand anything, felt very happy being held by his father. He grinned very well and fluttered his little arms and legs, thinking that his father was playing with him.

"Silly son." After a false alarm, Chen Yuping tapped Brother Cao's forehead affectionately: "How do you think you got such great ability? What's with your small body? You can actually press my father's face. How did you do it? Did you do it? You're a few months old baby, you're so capable, but you can't do this in the future, it's too dangerous, you know..." He opened his mouth.

How did Brother Cao do it? Can't figure it out.

During breakfast, Chen Yuping asked about his doubts.

"This is normal." Father Chen replied calmly: "Even though the baby is small, he is all very capable, and there is nothing you can't think of. As the saying goes, you have to take it easy. "As he gets older, his hands and feet will become more flexible, and he will become more active. If you don't pay attention, something might happen."

Chen Yuping glanced at Brother Cao who was staying in the basket: "I am. You have to be more alert when sleeping at night.

"Yes, I will help you during the day, but you will be the only one at night."

Old Chen looked at you curiously, squinting his eyes and smiling happily. : "When I first came home, I was thin and clownish, but now I'm chubby and look much better."

Chen Yuanqiu also looked closely for a while: "I think the pregnancy mole between Brother Cao's eyebrows has a little color. "Hey, it's true. " Father

Chen looked at it carefully: "It's nothing, this child's fruit powder is not in vain. If the situation is really improved, we will give it to him until he is five years old."

At that time, I also ate a lot of fruit powder until I was three years old, but unfortunately it was of no use. Later, something happened at home and I couldn't afford the money, so I had no choice but to stop.

Chen Yuchun led Da Zhuang over and heard voices in the kitchen: "Father, Dad, you are still having breakfast."

"Just finished eating."

Da Zhuang called people in a low voice, calling them one by one.

Concerned about Brother An who was sick at home, Chen Yuchun said the reason for his visit as soon as he sat down: "There are a lot of things going on at home recently, and I want to leave Da Zhuang here to stay for a few days."

"What's the matter?" asked Old Man Chen.

Father Chen saw that his eldest son looked very haggard, and his eldest grandson looked thinner than before. He was not busy with farming at the moment, so he made a guess in his mind: "Where is Brother An? Are you okay? The weather has been changing recently, little one." Children are prone to catching colds, so you have to be more careful. They are only a few months old and it will be very painful if they are sick. "

If there was nothing he could do, the eldest son would not send her here so easily. What he fears most is causing trouble for the family.

"It's good." Chen Yuchun suppressed the sadness in his heart and lowered his head slightly: "It's just that something happened again in the old house. I don't like the commotion, so I'll let Da Zhuang stay here for a few days."

Don't say it, forget it . , Father Chen did not take the initiative to mention it again: "Don't worry, let the child stay here. Brother Cao'er and Qiao Niu'er both like Da Zhuang, and the three little ones get along well."

"Hey, then, father and father. I'll go home first, there are still a lot of chores in the house that haven't been tidied up."

Father Chen sent him out.

"Brother An, are you really okay?" After walking a few steps, Father Chen finally asked again.

This child has been sensible since he was a child. It's probably his fault that they didn't raise him well when he was young and developed such a stubborn character.

"No..."

"It's just us, father and son, what can't we say?"

Chen Yuchun's eyes suddenly turned red: "It's just that I caught a cold at night and it's not getting better. Dazhuang also has a little cough. I'm worried that both children will be sick. " I'm sick."

"How many days have you been here?"

"It's the fourth day."

"Have you gone to see Dr. Shen in Shenjiawu?"

Dr. Shen is very capable and can cure the disease, but the consultation fee is a bit high. It doesn't matter. Farmers in the countryside will not go to the medical center if they can bear it. They really can't bear it anymore and think of seeing a doctor. It is better to go to the town to see Dr. Shen directly. Dr. Shen is more expensive, but the results are quick. , can cure the disease neatly. The medical center in the town is a little cheaper. If you are lucky, you can recover completely with some medicine. If you are not lucky, you will have to drink medicine for several days. It costs a lot of money and the disease is not cured, so it is better to go there. Shenjiawu looks for Dr. Shen.

When he saw his eldest son pursed his lips and said nothing, Father Chen became very angry: "What are you thinking? It's such a serious matter that Brother An is sick, but you didn't take him to the Shen family house. How did you become a father?" If you don't have enough money, why don't you go home? Is it your children or your self-esteem that's more important? I don't know how to deal with such a big thing

. He is also very accurate in detecting children's illnesses, and they all say that his family is good and affordable." Faced with the accusations in his father's eyes, Chen Yuchun felt a little guilty, his voice became softer and softer, and he wanted to hide his head directly in his chest.

"I see that you are getting better and better, so hurry up and take Brother An to Shen's house. Wait while I harness the ox cart."

Seeing his angry wife, old man Chen was not surprised: "You go get the money, and I'll harness it."

"Brother Ping, look at Brother Cao and Da Zhuang. I'll go to Shen's house with your brother."

"Okay." Old

man Chen originally wanted to go to the field, but his wife was not at home, so he had to stay and help the family. He had to take care of the children, guard the stall, and go into the kitchen to work. How could Brother Ping be so busy?

Liu Guixiang was sitting under the eaves of her house, washing her child's diapers. She saw the movement on the other side of the old house and took a look. After finishing what she was doing, she came over to the old house with Qiao Niuer in her arms.

"Father, I'm watching the child. Go and guard the stall."

Chen Yuping, who was busy in and out of the kitchen, said to his second sister-in-law at every opportunity: "Brother Cao turned over this morning and pressed my face. , it woke me up abruptly!" His eyebrows were filled with joy, and he was a little proud.

"Brother Cao, can you turn over?" Liu Guixiang glanced at the three children playing on the bamboo couch and smiled: "It will be four months soon, maybe it will be four months, I don't know for sure. It's time to turn over. Brother Cao is well-raised now. His little arms and legs are fleshy and energetic. Third brother, please pay attention. He will only be more lively in the future."

The uncle and sister-in-law talked about each other. Old man Chen was listening to the children's sutra outside, puffing on a cigarette, with a warm smile in his eyes, looking comfortable and light-hearted.

Chen Yuanqiu came back with a small wooden bucket. Yesterday, the fish cage was placed in the river. It has been in the mountains for several months. It needs a rest. It is too deep into the mountains and it is not safe. It is better to put it in the river. There is also a lot of shrimp paste at home. foot.

"Father, you didn't go to the fields?"

"Your father has something to do. You came back just in time. I was guarding the stall and helping your third brother while I went to the fields to have a look." "

Oh."

More than an hour passed . , a rich aroma floated in the stove, and the braised pork and braised pig's trotters were almost ready to come out of the pot, before Father Chen came back in his bullock cart.

"Dad." Chen Yuanqiu was bored. When he saw his father coming back, he was overjoyed and said, "I'll go down to the field to help my father." He really couldn't sit still.

"Go, go."

Chen Yuping came out with braised pork and braised pig's trotters, placed them on the stall and covered them with light gauze.

"Dad, is Brother An okay?"

"The child is too young. Doctor Shen said it's best to stay at his house for a day. If your eldest brother doesn't come back, I'll go check on you in the afternoon. It's not a big problem."

Liu Guixiang said: "It must be a cold. Many little kids have caught a cold recently."

"My forehead is very hot. It was just a minor illness at first. I was told that I was prescribed medicine at the Rejuvenation Pavilion. The fever will go down and then the fever will rise. I'm going to be fine soon." It's not easy to look back. Your eldest brother is also stupid. Brother An's condition has been recurring, so he didn't know how to rush to Shen's house. It was delayed for a few days. Brother An was not strong to begin with, but now he looks like he is I'm just a ball. I don't know how long it will take to recover from such an illness."

Mr. Chen, who had always been gentle, was furious and said a lot. Chen Yuping and Liu Guixiang listened quietly. , they didn't dare to talk to each other, for fear that the more he talked, the more angry he would become.

Fortunately, people came to the stall soon.

Father Chen was busy greeting business. As soon as he was busy, his anger was almost gone.

After lunch, he took the food box and drove the ox cart to Shen's house to deliver food to his eldest son and take a look at his grandson.

Chen Yuping specially stewed the soup and prepared two nutritious and light dishes. The eldest brother also looked a lot haggard. If he didn't eat better, what would he do if his body bones couldn't support him.

Chapter 24

After staying in Shenjiawu for a day, An Geer's condition became stable, and Father Chen took the father and son back.

Chen Yuping had enough time in the afternoon to stew a chicken and put some medicine in it.

Chen Yuchun and Liu Guixiang ate two more bowls.

"Dad, I will take Brother An to Shen's house tomorrow." The sky was a little dark, and Chen Yuchun thought about going back.

Old man Chen held a bowl of strong tea and raised his eyelids: "The beds have been made."

"Don't torment the child. If you can bear it, if the child can't bear it, you can go back when Brother An has taken advantage of it." Old Chen Dad said angrily, turned around and entered the house.

On this day, Zhang Zhiwei was never seen, and he didn't go to Shen's house either. I don't know what he was busy with.

Father Chen couldn't say much in front of his eldest son. Lying on the bed at night, he couldn't hold it in any longer: "Zhang Zhiwei is also very interesting. It makes sense that he didn't come to Chen's house. He didn't even go to Dr. Shen's house. Brother He is not in a hurry even if his son is gone.

"I was looking for a life-and-death companion, so what can I do?" Old man Chen muttered, "Don't think too hard about it. The child is fine. He is." If he wants to leave, let him go. We are married and have our own family, so we don't need to worry about it."

After a while, Father Chen whispered, "I'll just wait and see if Zhang Zhiwei will come tomorrow.

" So what if I come? So what if I don't come? "

"I have to talk to him. If I don't tell him, it's nothing. It will be useful if he wants to show off. "

"It's up to you

the next day . After breakfast, Chen Yuanqiu drove his eldest brother and nephew to Shen's house in a bullock cart.

Father Chen stayed at home to help. Liu Guixiang came over early with Qiao Niuer in her arms. She couldn't do the rest, so she could help look after the three children.

"Is this the Chen family?"

"It's the Chen Er family." Liu Guixiang replied, sizing up the young man in front of her. He looked tall and strong, and couldn't tell how old he was. He looked like he was in his early twenties. His eyebrows are slightly green, like a boy of fifteen or sixteen years old, his eyes are bright and lively, and he is somewhat calm.

The young man glanced around the room without any trace, and could vaguely see three children on the bamboo couch. They were far away and could not see clearly the appearance of the children.

"What are you looking at?" Liu Guixiang was very alert and stood up to block his view.

The young man smiled and said calmly: "I see there are three children on the bamboo couch. They look very well-behaved. They are not big and they don't make any noise. They are well-raised."

"Is something wrong with you?"

"I heard that they are very well-behaved. The Chen family set up a stall, and the food they bought was very delicious. I came over to take a look. "The young man focused on the stall: "Is this the shrimp paste steamed buns and the five-spice tea eggs? I want to try one of them. Do you still have to wait for the braised pork trotters?"

"Yes, you are early, it will be out in more than an hour."

The young man smiled a little embarrassedly: "Can I sit here and wait?" It's far away, so you can just go back after buying it, so you don't have to run back and forth, and you may not be able to make the trip. I heard that the braised pork and braised pig's trotters are the most popular."

After a few words, Liu Guixiang put down her guard against the young man and looked at her face. He also became a little more friendly: "Okay, you can wait if you want. My braised pork and braised pig's trotters are not the most popular. The most popular is the braised pig intestines, which can be brought out in a while."

As he said that, Chen Yu When I brought out the braised pig intestines, I was greeted by a spicy and delicious aroma, which made me choke slightly and my mouth watered wildly.

"I want two skewers of braised pig intestines."

Liu Guixiang took the money and handed the braised pig intestines to him, and said with experience: "It tastes better with shrimp paste steamed buns."

"He said he would wait here and wanted to buy it. Braised pork and braised pig trotters."

Chen Yuping listened to his second sister-in-law and glanced at the young man who was eating braised pork intestines and munching on steamed buns. He thought it was really delicious: "I'll give him a chair." I'm afraid he won't be able to sit on it. Look, this man is tall and strong, and there are faint muscles in his arms. Maybe he is a coolie, and maybe he knows some boxing and kicking skills.

"Thank you." The young man smiled brightly.

This smile was so brilliant that Chen Yuping blinked a little. This man looked strong with strong features, but he smiled like a child, with a sense of innocence. Hey, that's interesting.

Two skewers of braised pork intestines, the young man ate four shrimp paste steamed buns and two spiced tea eggs.

For the sake of money, Liu Guixiang enthusiastically poured him a bowl of cold boiled water. All the drinks at home were cold boiled water. Brother Ping said he couldn't drink raw water directly, saying it was not good or something. Seeing that he was serious about what he said, the family followed his instructions.

"Didn't you have breakfast?"

"I didn't make it in time. I'm afraid I won't be able to make it."

After the braised pig intestines were put out, the business at the stall began to pick up.

Liu Guixiang greeted him one after another. Father Chen was busy with trivial matters inside and outside the house. Chen Yuping was working in the kitchen. No one paid attention to the young man sitting in the corner of the eaves. The young man quietly moved his position so that he could be more comfortable. I could clearly see the three children on the bamboo couch.

He paid close attention to his surroundings, glancing at the bamboo couch from time to time, mostly with his peripheral vision.

At this time, Brother Cao somehow turned over again, his palm-sized face facing the door, his cheeks were fleshy, and his appearance was fair and white.

The young man saw it clearly and was a little confused, as if he couldn't believe it. He stared at Brother Cao's face, a little dazed.

Brother Cao'er met his gaze and grinned happily. This kid loved to laugh, and he would smile whenever he looked at him.

"Hey, Brother Cao has turned over again." Father Chen came in from the back of the house, took Brother Cao back to the middle of the bamboo couch, and said to his third son who was standing busy in front of the stove: "Your baby has turned over again." He turned over and was still grinning. He didn't know what he was laughing at. "

He smiled so beautifully."

At this unfamiliar voice, Father Chen looked outside and saw a young man answering the question kindly . : "This child loves to laugh. He followed his father when he was a child."

"I saw that this child has a shallow pregnancy mole between his eyebrows and a birthmark on his forehead. However, the child has been raised to be fat and well-dressed. This shows that his father and father are very happy with him. , I love him and care for him from the bottom of my heart," the young man said, and said sincerely: "Your family is a kind person." He

also used honorifics, and his eyes were particularly sincere. , seems to be hiding gratitude?

Father Chen thought it was a bit strange, but he liked hearing this, so he smiled and said: "His father is such a baby, he can't wait to hold it in the palm of his hand and put it in his mouth."

"Brother Cao is a blessed child."

Chen Yuping Listening to the conversation between my father and this man, the conversation became more and more lively. There was a smile on the corners of his eyebrows and eyes, and he felt a little fond of this man.

The eldest brother-in-law has never been seen, and he heard from the youngest that he never went to Dr. Shen's house. He asked, and some village neighbors said they saw people working in the fields with hoes. Dad didn't say anything, but he had a cold face, frowned, and even said few words.

The braised pork and braised pig's trotters are out of the pot. The rich braised aroma is mixed with the scalding heat, and the aroma is so enticing.

The young man stood up and said, "I want two pieces of braised pork and two braised pig trotters."

"Eat here or take it away?"

"Pack it up and take it away." The young man said and glanced in the direction of the bamboo couch. Brother Cao happened to turn his little head. When he saw him, he grinned again. His eyebrows and eyes were crooked when he smiled, and he looked so cute. .

Chen Yuping looked at the young man's suddenly soft eyebrows and the deep warmth in his eyes, and said, "My child is cute."

"Very cute. You raised him well."

Chen Yuping smiled, feeling happy in his heart.

Chapter 25

"He seems to like children very much." Liu Guixiang said casually: "I saw him always looking in the direction of the bamboo couch. He didn't mean any harm, so he didn't say anything."

Father Chen smiled cheerfully: "Listen to what he said. I really like children, especially our brother Cao."

"Our brother Cao looks good." Chen Yuping hugged Brother Cao and rubbed his tender little face affectionately, his heart was soft and his eyes were smiling. Wanwan, father and son are very similar.

The young man in the name of the Chen family strode towards the mountain carrying braised pig trotters and braised pork. He walked very fast and entered the mountain in a matter of seconds.

"Brother Jiu, why did it take so long? Nothing happened, right?"

"It's okay." Cui Yuanjiu handed him the braised pig's trotters and braised pork in his hand: "I saw Brother Bao, and the Chen family treated him very well. Well, he is fat and healthy, and he is wearing new clothes. The Chen family has nicknamed him Brother Cao, and they haven't thought about his name yet."

The young man couldn't wait to open the oil paper bag, his eyes sparkling: "They all say that the braised pig's trotters and braised pork made by the third brother of Chen's family are delicious, and they smell really good! The name Brother Cao'er is not as good as Brother Bao'er."

"Brother Cao'er is good, it's better to choose a cheap name. To support him, there will be no Brother Bao in the future." Cui Yuanjiu turned and looked down the mountain in the direction of the Chen family, with deep eyes: "Brother Cao has a good life in the Chen family, so let him stay in the Chen family.

" Are you willing?" The young man wiped his hands on his clothes casually, picked up a piece of braised pork and stuffed it into his mouth: "Oh, it's delicious. Brother Ninth, try it. It's so delicious. No wonder I bought it for two cents. One piece, it's money well spent!"

After finishing the braised pork and braised pig's trotters, the boy sucked his fingers with unsatisfied taste and sighed: "It's so delicious, I still want to eat it."

"Their braised pork intestines taste better, the shrimps. The steamed buns with soy sauce and five-spice tea eggs are also good."

"Why don't you buy me two skewers of braised pork intestines?"

Cui Yuanjiu replied confidently, "

I know you only see Brother Cao, Ming'er . I'll go down the mountain to buy it myself." The young man said, his eyes rolling around: "How long do you plan to stay here? When will the escort agency be able to do it without you?"

Cui Yuanjiu said . Thinking of Brother Cao's smiling face with curved eyebrows, his stern eyebrows suddenly softened, and even his voice became warm: "I don't care about the escort agency for the time being. I have to stay here for a while. I want to see more of Brother Cao." Son, I don't know when I'll come over to see him next time." He paused and said, "I have to find a way to get along well with the Chen family. Master treats me with great kindness, but I let Brother Cao suffer this disaster. If I don't do something for the Chen family or Brother Cao, my conscience will not be at ease."

"Okay! Okay!" The young man responded in a voice: "I will go to the Chen family with you tomorrow. "

No."

"Why?"

"You're too stupid, it's easy to reveal

your secret." The young man suddenly became unhappy and didn't dare to say anything. Brother Cao was the only bloodline of Brother Jiu and his master. Only then was he willing to close his eyes. When he learned that Brother Cao had been abandoned by his stepmother, Brother Ninth went crazy and beat the couple severely. His father and stepmother were still lying on the bed half-dead.

Deserve it! Brother Ninth made it clear before he left, asking them to take good care of Brother Cao, and gave him a full tael of silver. However, when Brother Ninth came back, he found that the couple had thrown him into the mountains!

"I want braised pig intestines."

"Okay."

"Five skewers." The boy stretched out his hand and said, "I want steamed buns with shrimp paste, five-spice tea eggs, braised pork, and braised pig trotters too." After saying that, he quickly took out a piece of broken silver: "Here, money, I'm not freeloading. It's you who didn't let me go to Chen's house. Don't forget to buy it later."

Cui Yuanjiu took the broken silver and stuffed it into his arms, and nodded. He nodded and agreed to the matter.

At about noon, Chen Yuanqiu came back from the fields, drove the ox cart to Shen Wu's house, and took his eldest brother and nephew back to Chen's house.

Doctor Shen prescribed the medicine, so there was no need to go to Shen's house in the afternoon to boil the medicine and feed it to An Ge'er. There will be another dose tomorrow, so he will feel better after drinking the medicine.

Seeing that the food was about to be served, Zhang Zhiwei came over.

"Father, Dad."

Father Chen, who was suffocating his anger, slapped his chopsticks angrily when he saw him stepping on the food order: "You still know how to come here? Why are you here? Open your mouth to eat and put your hands down to put down the bowl?"

"Come and see Brother Chun and the two children." Zhang Zhiwei carried the killed chicken to the stove and said, "Thanks to my father and mother for being here these two days."

"Are the children okay?" Zhang Zhiwei turned around. Ask Brother Chun.

Chen Yuchun responded in a low voice: "Doctor Shen has prescribed medicine. You will be well after drinking the medicine."

"Why are you still standing? Do you have to sit down with me as a father?" Father Chen was so angry that he couldn't help but ask for help. His attitude was too frivolous.

Chen Yuping looked at it and took out a pair of bowls and chopsticks: "Brother Zhiwei, please sit down."

"There is something wrong with the seedlings in the field. I have been paying close attention to things in the field these two days. I know that Brother Chun and the child are here. I feel at ease." Zhang Zhiwei said dryly, holding the bowl and eating only the food in front of him, showing restraint.

If he hadn't taken care of his eldest son and two children, Father Chen would have wanted to scold him so much that he swallowed his words back in his mouth: "Brother Chun and the children will not go back for the next two days, so why don't you go back?" We'll have to decide when the father and son feel better."

"Okay."

After dinner, Zhang Zhiwei hurried to the fields. Chen Yuandong saw him on the way and stopped him: "Brother Zhiwei, are you having dinner at the old house this noon?"

"It's the second brother." Zhang Zhiwei nodded.

"Brother, you are safe." Chen Yuandong gave a thumbs up, but did not smile: "Brother An is very ill, Da Zhuang is always coughing, brother is anxious and haggard, and the family is busy with things, but brother An can sit still Come on, I just wanted to go to the old house to see my elder brother and the others."

Zhang Zhiwei smiled sarcastically, twitching the corners of his mouth and lowering his head.

Seeing him like this, Chen Yuandong said nothing and patted him on the shoulder: "Brother-in-law is busy, and I also have to work in the fields. Every household is very busy with this kind of work in the fields. After all, the entire year's income is in their pockets." "

In the evening, Zhang Zhiwei brought a fish into the house, weighing about three kilograms. He put the fish on the stove and saw two bundles of firewood thrown in front of the firewood shed. He immediately took a machete and moved a stool to start chopping firewood.

"The cowshed hasn't been cleaned for several days." Old man Chen, who had returned from the fields, opened his mouth and said something as soon as he arrived at the door of his house. He didn't know who he was talking to.

After chopping firewood, Zhang Zhiwei went to clean the cowshed very wisely.

Uncharacteristically, Old Man Chen sat behind the house with Brother Cao in his arms. Seeing that the cowshed was cleaned, he added, "The pigpen has not been flushed for some days, and it smells bad."

Well, Zhang Zhiwei carried it again. I went to the pig pen with a bucket of water and fetched water back and forth to rinse. I was sweating from exhaustion.

"It's time to eat." Chen Yuping shouted.

Old man Chen hugged Brother Cao and slowly walked into the kitchen house from the back of the house. Old man Chen, who was laying out the dishes and chopsticks, took a look, with a smile on his face, thinking that his old man was really cute.

Chen Yuchun put Brother An into the basket and sat down at the table obediently.

"Asleep?"

"Just fell asleep."

But Brother Cao was awake, and Old Chen didn't let his third son hold him, so he could hold the baby with one hand while eating.

Chen Yuping was a little shocked: "Father, when we were little, you hugged me a lot when we were eating, right?"

"I hugged you the most." Father Chen said and laughed again.

Chen Yuchun also remembers clearly: "Brother Ping would cry a lot and had to be held by someone. He couldn't put it in the basket. Dad would hold him and father would hold him, and he would take turns all day long. I didn't even care about the farm work inside and outside the house. Fortunately, I only made a fuss for a while.

"What about me? Was I very good when I was a child?" Chen Yuanqiu asked enthusiastically.

"You are just a skinned monkey."

"Yes, you are jumping up and down and making a lot of noise. You just can't go to bed. It's common to be beaten once every three days."

Chen Yuanqiu scratched the back of his head: "No wonder my father beat me You've disliked me since I was little."

Seeing that he really believed it, everyone at the table laughed.

Zhang Zhiwei went home after dinner and came over early the next morning. He carried a strip of meat and a big bone in his hand. He put the things on the stove and went to the fields again.

"If you don't talk about him, he seems to be a fine person. He knows how to save face after saying a few words." Father Chen hummed, his anger was gone, but he still said a few words to his eldest son: "This man of yours, you want to If you say you have no intention, look at his performance in the past two days. If you say he doesn't understand, he understands it. If you say he has intention, he only found out after two days. I'm not here to eat what he got. The key is, no matter how busy I am, I still have to do it. I took the time to say a few words. He came here early. Even if he didn't get anything to eat, I feel comfortable. At least he has you and your son at the forefront of his mind. "

What can Chen Yuchun say? It's his choice to control this person. "That's the way he is."

"Okay, just be stupid." Father Chen didn't bother to talk: "When you come to eat at noon, tell him not to take away these food, Brother An When you are sick, your hands are not loose. You can't empty your family's money."

"If he wants to buy and take, just follow him. This is what he should give. My two children and I eat, drink and live here. How much trouble has he caused to the family? "What did he do?"

Father Chen looked at him and said, "Just be stubborn. If you don't tell me, the family is not short of food."

Chapter 26

Brother An felt better, and the father and son looked much better and more energetic. Chen Yuchun took the two children back home.

After staying at Chen's house for several days, I didn't even go back to take a look. I don't know what happened to the house.

Da Zhuang just had a cough. After taking a few small pills given by Dr. Shen, no one went to the Shen house. The cough was cured.

Father Chen also sighed: "Doctor Shen's medical skills are really good. Don't imitate your elder brother. In order to save more than ten pennies, he would rather go to the town to see a doctor. After all, I went to a lot of times and spent a lot of money." "Money." He paused and muttered: "I finally saved some money, but now I'm afraid I've spent almost all of it."

"Daddy, the spiced tea eggs at home are sold well, why don't you let me buy some more hens? " Keep the chickens alive." Chen Yuping knew that his father had a sharp tongue and a soft heart, so he gave some advice.

"Your brother-in-law came here specially to talk a few days ago. You can understand the meaning behind the words. He just thought that the tea eggs were selling well and needed to buy eggs. His family also saved a lot. Your brother-in-law is responsible for it. Ye Zhong, life at home was very tight in the past, thanks to your father and two brothers who helped. "Dad Chen was a little embarrassed.

When I first bought eggs, I asked my eldest brother and my younger brother's family. It happened that the eggs from my younger brother's home had just been exchanged for money in the town, so I bought all the eggs from my eldest brother's home. Later, I kept buying them from my eldest brother's home. My younger brother Xu Shi really had some difficulties. It took a while before he came over to talk to me.

Chen Yuping forgot about this incident: "My father will go to my uncle's house later. There are only two eggs left in the house. If they are sold out today, they will be gone tomorrow."

There are twenty chickens at home, and eighteen at the elder brother's house. Chickens, the second brother's family has sixteen chickens. On average, they can pick up fifty eggs a day. The braised pig intestines have boosted the stall's business. Even the shrimp paste steamed buns are sold at a steady rate of 150 a day. The portion of spiced tea eggs has increased. When I reach eighty, I have to buy eggs every now and then.

"I'll go there in a minute. Your uncle must be very happy. It's not hot lately, so he has been saving eggs for more than half a month. His family also raises more than 20 chickens, so he must have a lot of eggs.

" After taking a nap, Chen Yuping and Father Chen struggled to pack up the pig intestines they would use tomorrow.

The more I clean this thing, the more efficient it becomes.

Still tired though.

When Cui Yuanjiu came over, he smelled the smell of pig feces from afar, and he frowned.

When we came to the front of the house, the stalls had been closed down, the door in front of the house was closed, and most of them were probably working by the well behind the house.

He turned to the back of the house and said, "Secret Uncle Chen, Brother Ping." He saw the basket under the eaves at a glance. In the basket, Brother Cao was sleeping soundly. There was a soft smile in his eyes. The little guy was Not afraid of smell.

Speaking of smell, when I first started selling braised pig intestines, the braised pig intestines did sell well and the business was very good. However, the portion of the braised pig intestines was large and I had to sell them for a while in the afternoon, as did the shrimp paste steamed buns and five-spice tea eggs.

Ever since Chen Yuping and Chen father and son squatted behind the house to clean pig intestines not long after lunch, the smell was so stinky.

Then, the villagers and neighbors who want to buy food from Chen's house all know that if they want to eat delicious food, they must go in the morning. If they go in the afternoon, it will be too unappetizing. The smell of intestines is blowing in the wind, which is suffocating. You can't get close, let alone buy food.

Speaking of which, braised pig intestines are delicious! It is spicy, refreshing, delicious, and very strong. They make a profit by selling a bunch of them for a penny. But cleaning the stinky intestines is really not a human task, especially when there are dozens of kilograms of stinky intestines. Cleaning this thing is troublesome. , I don't know how much effort it will take. Thank you Chen family for their hard work. It's not easy to make money these days.

"Yuan Jiu is here. Why didn't you come this morning? It's a little late now. The stall has been closed and there is no food to sell." Father Chen greeted warmly.

This man comes here every day to buy food. After several conversations, the basic situation is 80% clear. His surname is Cui and his first name is Yuanjiu. He lives on the other side of the mountain. He is seventeen years old. I really can't tell. He looks better than his own family. The younger son is tall and strong, and his speech is very organized.

His father had a difficult childbirth when he was born, and his body was too weak to do heavy work. He passed away when he was ten years old. His father's left leg was injured when he was young, so he was not very efficient at work. When he was older, he learned from an old headhunter in the mountains. After some hard work, life at home gradually improved. Now he mainly makes a living in the county escort agency. After going out for a while, he will come back to rest.

The most important thing is that Father Chen quietly discovered that this little man always likes to stare at Brother Ping, and he also likes Brother Cao. Brother Cao seems to like him too. Brother Cao does like to laugh, but he is not Smiling at everyone, Brother Cao would always smile when he saw someone like this who had only been here a few days.

Isn't it just fate!

Cui Yuanjiu didn't know why Mr. Chen was particularly fond of him, but it was a good thing. He climbed up the pole: "I was delayed in doing errands in the town this morning." As he said, he said: "This pig intestines wash It's very hard to get up, but I have a lot of strength, so I have nothing to do. I rolled up my sleeves and squatted by the well.

Chen Yuping glanced at his arm from the corner of his eye, what a guy! He is jealous of these muscles, what a man!

"It's very strenuous and really tiring." Father Chen had some unspeakable thoughts and did not stop the little man with a shy face. He thought ecstatically that he really fell in love with his brother Ping because of his stuttering. ? He said in a subtle way that Brother Cao has no father.

He's a bit young, but that doesn't matter. This little guy looks reliable and can live a good life.

Father Chen looked at it without leaving a trace. Seeing that Cui Yuanjiu hadn't even finished washing the pig intestines, he had already figured out the trick. Although he also learned from Brother Ping next to him, his mind was spinning very fast: "Young people still need to use their hands and feet." "I'm so agile, so I work a lot."

"I'm the only one in the family, so I have to do everything by myself, so I'm becoming more agile."

Chen Yuping listened to the two chattering again, thinking about his father and this man. We really have something to talk about, and we can talk for a long time every morning.

If it weren't for the huge age difference, people who didn't know better would have thought they were young lovers in love. They were so chatty that they could talk about anything, as if they had endless things to say.

Chen Yuping seriously felt that his father was a bit abnormal. He was friendly and not so warm. This attitude was a bit too much. What was he thinking about? I always feel something is wrong.

While thinking, he glanced at Cui Yuanjiu next to him. The young man looked over immediately, and then grinned at him with a bright smile. Chen Yuping, who had no time to look away, could only smile with his lips pursed. I was caught peeping, and my face felt a little hot.

Sure enough, I fell in love with Brother Ping! Father Chen suppressed his inner excitement and his eyes brightened. Brother Ping seems to be a little interested in Yuan Jiu, and the two of them have quite an atmosphere.

Don't be in a hurry, the time is too short, you have to watch it slowly, don't expose it first, and see what kind of development there will be.

As the saying goes, the more a mother-in-law looks at her son-in-law, the more satisfied she becomes. Father Chen is currently in such a delicate state. Cui Yuanjiu, a little man, looks good, if it really comes to pass, he is willing to shorten his life by three years, as long as brother Ping can find a solid and reliable companion, and live a smooth and enjoyable life without worrying about food and clothing.

There is one more person to help, and this person does his job very well.

In just over an hour, the pile of pig intestines was cleaned. As the pig intestines were cleaned, the stench that filled the air gradually dissipated.

"If you're not busy at home, I'll stay for dinner. Thanks to you, my old waist and old arms can take a breather." Father Chen pretended to hit his lower back.

"It's nothing, just a casual job."

Father Chen smiled cheerfully: "You put it lightly, this job is not easy, so it's settled, we'll stay for dinner."

At this time, Brother Cao, who was sleeping in the basket, woke up. He didn't know whether he was hungry or had to urinate, and he started crying.

Chen Yuping quickly wiped his hands, walked over in three steps and two steps, and coaxed him with a smile: "Brother Cao, wake up, daddy's little baby, wake up, daddy, check if you peed or not." I'm hungry." He touched the diaper and said, "You've peed. I'll help you change it."

"I need to make some fruit powder for Brother Cao." Dad Chen continued, "I'll do it first." Wash his butt with warm water."

Cui Yuanjiu, who was waiting for the opportunity, took the opportunity to say, "Why don't I get some warm water and Uncle Chen can make some fruit powder for the child? It's not good for

him to be hungry because he has a weak stomach."

Chapter 27

Cui Yuanjiu found that the Chen family did not resent him helping with the work. When he came to the Chen family again, he did not sit still while waiting for the braised pork and braised pig's trotters. He stood up and helped someone who could help him. His movements were quick and his eyes were full of work. .

Not only Chen Yuping found it strange, but Liu Guixiang also noticed it, but Dad... Dad seemed very happy, and she was too smart to say anything.

It was just a matter of helping with the work in the morning. In the afternoon, the stalls were closed and there was no food to sell. Cui Yuanjiu came over anyway and helped clean the pig intestines. He worked really fast and methodically. The more the pig intestines were washed, the more he washed them. The more skilled you are, the faster your overall efficiency will be.

Father Chen saw a look of relief in his eyes. He didn't know why he was so relieved. Chen Yuping didn't dare to ask or say anything. He always felt that as long as he opened his mouth, he would hear words that would make his scalp numb. He didn't say anything, he was too choked to speak.

After dinner, all the trivial things in the house were tidied up, and the family sat in front of the house chatting about home affairs. Father Chen said meaningfully: "It's easy to tell whether this person is paying attention or not." He glanced three times. Son: "For example, your eldest brother-in-law really doesn't take your eldest brother seriously. Then look at your second brother's treatment of your second sister-in-law. It's completely different. For example, the Cui family guy who often comes to help at home recently, This kid looks like he's working hard. He washes the pig's intestines very neatly. He obviously put a lot of thought into the work and didn't use any effort. "

" Dad, what does this Cui guy have to do with us?" Chen Yuanqiu listened. Confused: "However, the eldest brother really can't be compared with the second brother. The second brother treats his second sister-in-law and Qiao Niu well. The two of them put everything aside, but he is far worse than the eldest brother. "

Dad Chen raised his eyebrows: "It doesn't matter, it matters a lot." He glanced at the third son secretly from the corner of his eye. When he saw that the third son didn't respond at all, he lowered his head to play with Brother Cao, and he was suddenly a little discouraged. This child is just a human being. Jing'er! "Young man from the Cui family, you are really careful. Back then, your eldest brother-in-law was just a superficial person. Your eldest brother thought that he was honest and honest and knew how to work. It was useless. So I said, it's okay if I don't have money. I have to care about you." Okay, your eldest brother won't listen and insists on getting married to him."

Chen Yuchun knew that he had a weird temper that most people couldn't stand.

Seeing that Zhang Zhi was honest and honest, could tolerate his bad temper, would not retaliate when he was scolded, and was of a good build and appearance, and the village was close to home, so I thought it would be a good idea to find him. If you miss this, it may be difficult to find the right one.

It's hard to live without being together, and without being placed on the top of my heart. Life is really hard. It looks pretty good, but it's hard to tell whether it's warm or cold inside.

"Dad, when I look for a companion from now on, I will definitely listen to you. Just say yes. If you don't agree, I won't look at him from the corner of my eye. No matter how good he is, I don't want him." Seeing that his father was a little angry again, Chen Yuanqiu immediately Teasing him for fun: "Third brother, do you think so?"

Chen Yuping thought, before I could hide, you were a good boy and pulled me back to the battlefield: "Yes, yes." He answered with a smile. , never say a word more.

"You." Father Chen glanced at his younger son: "I'm not in a hurry. Now, even your third brother is old enough to get married. The family has a stall and has a stable income, and life is getting better and better. " Shu Tan, everything is fine. As long as the marriage between the two of you is settled, you will be satisfied and have no regrets in this life."

Old man Chen didn't like to hear this: "Tao Guitao, why are you talking about this?"

"I." Just say it casually." Father Chen smiled, with warm love in the corner of his eyebrows and eyes: "Listen, do you think that I take you seriously? You can see it in the small details in daily life. My father thinks I'm talking unfavorably. He doesn't want to hear it anymore."

"This old man." Father Chen put his hand on his shoulder and leaned closer to him: "You're too old to say this. It's nothing, there has to be a day."

Old man Chen twisted his head and said, "Leave the child in front of you and mutter blindly."

Without any mental precautions, Chen Yu was expressionless when his mouth was filled with dog food.

Chen Yuanqiu was a little shy: "Father, Dad, you are also... ashamed." He picked up Brother Cao from the arms of the third brother: "Brother Cao calls me uncle. I am your uncle. Please call me uncle. Brother Cao, just smile like this." He grinned and said, "Quickly, show me a smile."

Silly. Chen Yuping commented, and suddenly thought of Cui Yuanjiu. When he smiled, he was like a bright sunshine, especially dazzling.

Cui Yuanjiu regards himself less and less as an outsider.

Coming early in the morning, he also carried two solid bundles of firewood, both of which were large logs that could withstand burning.

"I came over the mountain today and found a broken tree. I picked up the thick branches and picked up the remaining twigs tomorrow. If the sun is good, it can be used in a day or two." , he put down the firewood, picked up the machete and started chopping firewood. The chopped firewood was spread next to the woodshed to facilitate the sun.

Father Chen poured a bowl of cold water for him: "You haven't had breakfast. Don't buy shrimp paste steamed buns today. Brother Ping's noodles are delicious. I asked him to give you a bowl to try. It's been really good lately." It's so troublesome for you, and I don't know how to thank you. You love to eat Brother Ping's food, and you just happened to ask him to give you a bowl of gnocchi. I'm not complimenting you, the taste is really great, and others can't eat it even if they want to. "

Brother Ping's craftsmanship, I am also a greedy person, so I have the shame to trouble Brother Ping."

Early the next morning, Cui Yuanjiu not only carried two solid bundles of firewood, but also dragged two fat bamboos. , the bamboo was tied with rattan, tied around his waist and dragged. Thanks to his tall and strong stature, he came to the door of Chen's house without blushing and out of breath, looking very relaxed.

"I saw that my family needed a lot of bamboo sticks. These two bamboo sticks were good, so I brought them over. I sat there for a while while I cut some bamboo sticks for later use."

"I told my family yesterday that I should cut some bamboo sticks . It's a coincidence that you brought bamboo here today." Father Chen fetched water for him to wash his face: "Yuanjiu, I want to say something, don't think that my second uncle is too talkative, even if he is in good health, he can't. It's so reckless to come down the mountain. It's enough to bring a bundle of firewood. You have to be careful yourself."

"Hey, uncle is doing it for my own good. I will pay attention to my work in the future and do everything with caution. " Please, take care of yourself."

"Yes, yes, that's it."

Father Chen became more and more satisfied with Cui Yuanjiu. Seeing that his third son always refused, he finally couldn't hold himself back.

"Brother Ping, what do you think of Yuan Jiu? After all these days, this young man is very fond of you. What do you think?"

"Dad, how did you know that he likes me?" Chen Yuping's face was filled with emotion. Confused: "I didn't even feel it myself. I only said a few words to him."

Father Chen said: "If I don't like you, how could it be that he likes me, an old man? Look at what he did for our family. Everything is done carefully and carefully, and it seems that he has put a lot of thought into it. He is also interested in Brother Cao, and he obviously wants to win your favor. "

" Dad, I think you are overthinking." Chen Yuping felt that Cui Yuanjiu was so attentive. It's definitely not for him to please the family. Anyway, he doesn't have any feelings. It's really for him. Judging from Cui Yuanjiu's behavior in the Chen family these days, he is full of intelligence and energy. As long as he is interested in him, he will not do it. Maybe it made him feel nothing, which indirectly showed that this person's thoughts were not with him at all. As for what he was doing, he couldn't tell. There was no malice. It was obvious that this person had deep thoughts and was quite upright.

Father Chen couldn't make sense with his third brother, so he went into the house angrily.

Here, Cui Yuanjiu secretly pondered, his favorability level was about the same, should he explain his identity to the Chen family tomorrow?

He will go to the county town in two days, and it may take several months before he can come back.

Originally, he didn't plan to have too much contact with the Chen family. It was good for Brother Cao to stay in the Chen family. He was afraid that because of his presence, the Chen family would take care of Brother Cao.

At first, he just wanted to help the Chen family with some work and repay them for their kindness to Brother Cao. Unexpectedly, the second uncle of the Chen family was too kind. Under a strange combination of circumstances, his contact with the Chen family became deeper and deeper. The more I get to know the Chen family, they are really kind, kind-hearted and kind people.

Go and tell the truth tomorrow and tell Brother Cao'er's tragic life experience in detail. Given the character of the Chen family, they shouldn't blame him.

Chapter 28

Chen Yuping had just woken up and was not in a hurry to get up. He lay in bed playing with Brother Cao and talking to him in a funny way.

Father Chen passed by under the eaves and heard the movement in the house. He knocked on the door twice and said, "Brother Ping, it's raining outside and it's a bit cool. Don't let it get cold, Brother Cao. Wear thicker clothes." "

I I heard the patter of rain in the middle of the night last night. Is it still raining outside? "

"It's raining heavily,"

Old Chen, who was leisurely holding strong tea, shouted into the room: "Brother Cao, when you wake up. "It's a rainy day and there is little farm work, so I can't sit still at home.

"Your father woke up early and drank a bowl of strong tea for half an hour."

Chen Yuping quickly put on Brother Cao's clothes and carried him outside the house: "Father, if you have nothing to do, just do a few things." When the youngest went to town to buy pig intestines, he asked him to bring back a few big jars. I'll have to pickle a few more jars of red fermented bean curd so that I don't have enough to sell. "

"Is your tofu ready?" The old man listened and asked: "What does it taste like?"

"It's very fragrant, but I can't eat it yet because I don't have enough time. This is too time-consuming and I have to prepare it early."

Father Chen said next to him: "Brother Ping I always eat delicious food. I think the fermented bean curd this time is definitely the best.

" I can't do it even after half a day. I'll soak the soybeans first. I have time now. Is ten pieces enough? I went to town with the youngest. He doesn't know how to choose. There are good and bad jars. "Such a big jar. " Chen Yuping

handed Cao Ge'er to his father and gestured with his hand: "I want to buy ten small jars as big as a palm. Let's buy them all together so that we can negotiate better."

He said, "Ten slabs of tofu are not enough for such a big jar. I'll make more so that we can eat it ourselves."

"Looks like we will have to grow more soybeans next year." Father Chen smiled cheerfully.

Old man Chen's eyebrows showed a bit of pride: "Soybeans are easy to clean and don't take much effort."

"Father and Dad, when we see a suitable field, let's buy it."

"Your father was still talking to me last night Speaking of which, I have made some money in the past few months, and my family has bought a cow. With the help of a cow, work in the fields will be much easier. Even if I buy a few more acres of fields, I will be busy. It's rare to encounter someone selling land. Just like buying cattle, you have to look for it slowly."

Chen Yuping said with a smile: "Take your time and don't rush. Let's prepare the money and hurry up when there is good fertile land." It doesn't matter if it's a little more expensive, as long as it's good."

After

breakfast, Father Chen set up the stall and placed the shrimp paste steamed buns with five-spice tea eggs and braised pork intestines. The pig's trotters had been marinated last night and soaked in the marinade all night. They were quite tasty and strong. Only the braised pork had to be freshly cooked.

Before the soybeans were soaked, old man Chen and his youngest son went to town to buy pig intestines and jars and buy some daily necessities.

Cui Yuanjiu was wearing a bamboo hat and not even a raincoat. He was holding two fish that were still alive and kicking, and they looked like they weighed four to five kilograms each. He was tall and strong, walking in the drizzle with his head held high, and his demeanor was somewhat out of tune with the entire small village.

Chen Yuping happened to see him through the window and felt that he looked like a knight. It was more like replacing the fish in his hand with a knife.

"Second uncle." Cui Yuanjiu greeted with a smile, and his cold facial features softened instantly: "Brother Cao." He teased in a low voice, deliberately softening his voice.

"Why are you bringing fish over here? These two fish are so fat."

"We met on the way. Seeing how fresh the fish were, I bought two. I often trouble brother Ping to make breakfast for me. Why don't you bring two fish over here? What's the matter?"

Father Chen said to the kitchen: "Brother Ping, let's eat it for lunch while the fish is fresh?" Then he looked at Cui Yuanjiu and said, "You can also stay and taste it. The fish cooked by Brother Ping is also special. It's delicious and fragrant."

Chen Yuping came out and looked at the two fish: "The two fish must weigh about ten kilograms. It's not hot today, so we will make a fish hot pot at noon. I will call my second brother and sister-in-law over later. "

Do you need to clean it up?" Cui Yuanjiu asked: "Tell me how to clean it up."

"It's still early, put it in the water first, don't worry."

Dad Chen suddenly remembered: "You still have to do it." Didn't you have breakfast?"

"I'll just buy two shrimp paste steamed buns, and eat them with braised pork intestines."

"There's no need to be so foreign, just take them." Father Chen smiled happily.

Cui Yuanjiu took out five coins and put them into the money box: "Second uncle, this can't be done, business is business."

Listening to these words, Father Chen became more and more satisfied with this young man.

Chen Yuping saw his father's eyes shining, and suddenly felt his scalp numb. He immediately slipped back to the kitchen house with two fish in hand.

When old man Chen and his son came back, the rain was getting heavier.

The bullock cart stopped at the door of the house, and Cui Yuanjiu moved jars into the house quickly. There were more than a dozen jars, large and small.

"Thank you for your hard work today, Ox." Old man Chen took off the harness and led the cow to the cowshed behind the house.

Father Chen took out a clean towel: "Come and wipe the raindrops on your body. You have to change your clothes or take a bath."

"No need, it's not too wet." Chen Yuanqiu didn't care, holding the towel Roughly wipe the raindrops.

Chen Yuping cooked the ginger soup and served three thick bowls: "Drink while it's hot." He and his father drank from small bowls. They weren't exposed to the rain, so there was no need to drink too much.

Brother Cao'er in the basket was not asleep. His big dark eyes were watching the adults drinking ginger soup, his little mouth sucking like a greedy little cat.

"Zai Zai wants to drink too, right?" Chen Yuping squatted in front of the basket and teased him.

Brother Cao'er grinned widely and stretched out his chubby little arms, as if he wanted to hug or drink ginger soup.

Cui Yuanjiu squatted next to Chen Yuping calmly: "Brother Cao, you can't drink it yet? You haven't seen any teeth."

"You're still young. In a month or so, you can feed him some paste or porridge." Qiao Niu'er. Teeth have started to appear after more than five months, but Brother An only started to have teeth at six months. The eldest brother said that children have teething sooner or later. Chen Yuping thought that his little brother may have been too thin before. The growth is a bit slow. If this is the reason, I really don't know how old Brother Cao is.

"How old is the child?"

Chen Yuping was silent for a moment: "It's been more than five months."

"It's really good to raise him." Cui Yuanjiu couldn't hold back, stretched out his hand to hold Brother Cao into his arms, weighed him twice, and smiled. De's eyebrows were soft: "Very chubby, fair and fair."

After Brother Cao'er was born, the master entrusted Brother Cao to his care. On the third day, he hurried to the county town to escort the child. He and his stepmother took care of him, and gave him one tael of silver, promising to come back within two months.

For brothers who are under one year old, they don't need much money. You can go to the town to get it. All you need to do is buy some clothes, shoes and socks. One tael of silver is more than enough.

Things are unpredictable. He encountered robbers on his way out. The robbers came well-prepared, so the escort trip was delayed. By the time he finished handling the affairs of the escort agency, it was already three months before he came back.

Calculating the time, Brother Cao's age should be six months, which is about the same month as the Chen family estimated.

Brother Ping and Yuan Jiu talked together, and hugged Brother Cao. No matter how you looked at it, it was a warm atmosphere of a family of three.

Father Chen was relieved and happy. He quickly winked and asked his wife and youngest to speak softer.

After finishing the ginger soup, Old Man Chen put down the bowl and went to see how the soybeans were soaking.

Chen Yuanqiu walked out of the house happily. He went to his second brother's house to talk and called them to come for lunch.

Father Chen was guarding the stall.

When Chen Yuping felt something was wrong, he scanned the surrounding area and was almost frightened. Why were there only three of them left in the room? When did the other three leave? There was no movement at all. If he said it wasn't intentional, he wouldn't believe it at all. It was 100% his father's fault.

"Cui Yuanjiu, let me ask you something." Chen Yuping felt that this was not possible. Dad's little moves were becoming more and more frequent. If he didn't pierce the paper quickly, something would really happen later: "Father, come in."

Dad Chen He responded without looking back: "What are you doing? I'm guarding the stall and can't leave."

"There's no one here now. Dad, come in quickly. I have something to say."

"Okay."

Father Chen just entered the stove room. I heard my third son asking Cui Yuanjiu naively: "Do you like me? Or do you just like the food I cook? So you are extra attentive to your family these days?"

This stupid son! How can there be such a straightforward brother! If you want to ask, you have to ask politely, and he is the father who asks!

Such a sudden move made Father Chen very anxious.

Cui Yuanjiu looked at Chen Yuping and then at Uncle Chen. He was always smart, but now it was completely clear why Uncle Chen was so warm to him.

He actually made inquiries about the Chen family and Brother Ping.

Here, this, this misunderstanding is a bit big.

He was thinking, contemplating, wondering whether he should tell the real truth.

Brother Ping, Brother Ping is indeed a very good brother. Putting aside Brother Cao, he does like Brother Ping as a person. However, he has not thought about getting married and living together. After all, he is currently in the escort agency, his life is not particularly stable, and it is not a good time to get married yet.

"Why don't you speak?" Father Chen asked fiercely. Could it be that he is overthinking? Did he really think too much? What to do! Brother Ping finally felt cheerful. If he was hit by this, he would not be able to think about it at all.

"Second uncle." Cui Yuanjiu came back to his senses and smiled at Chen Yuping. His smile was as bright as a flower blooming in the sun, beautiful and charming: "I do like brother Ping, but I am close to the Chen family because of Brother Cao."

Cui Yuanjiu slowly told Brother Cao's life experience.

Brother Cao'er's grandfather was an old Orion who lived in the mountains. The old Orion had a very bad reputation. People in the village said that he was a broom star. He killed his parents one after another, and then his eldest son. When the eldest son died, his Alang was pregnant. After hearing the bad news, she gave birth to a thin little brother about eight months later, but his Alang never opened his eyes again.

The old Orion was so heartbroken that he hid in the mountains with his young son in his arms and lived a life.

Finally, the younger son grew up and met a man. The relationship between the two was very good. The man's family and relatives did not agree with the marriage. They were afraid of the bad luck in the old hunter. Finally, the man married another neighbor. The village brother.

The old Orion felt that he had burdened his younger son and wanted to secretly seek death. However, at this moment, he discovered that his younger son was pregnant.

The younger son is a premature baby. He has lived with him in the mountains since he was a child. He has not been well fed or clothed, and his body has never been strong. Now that he is pregnant, aborting the fetus will most likely endanger his life. The most important thing is, The younger son wanted to have the child.

The youngest son of the old Orion felt deeply guilty, so he did not refuse the matter. When his son is pregnant, he will become a father-in-law, and the old Orion regains his hope in life.

It's a pity that God was too mean to see the old Orion well. His youngest son had a difficult delivery. The child was born, but he never woke up.

The old Orion was deeply affected and could not afford to fall ill.

He dragged his exhausted body, entrusted his grandson to his apprentice, and closed his eyes.

Cui Yuanjiu is the apprentice of the old Orion. When he was ten years old, he met the old Orion in the mountains and worshiped him as his teacher.

The old Orion treated him very well and was very kind to him. He taught him all his skills. He is where he is today thanks to his master's teachings.

Everyone thinks that the old Orion is a broomstick, a disaster or a scourge. In Cui Yuanjiu's heart, the master is more important than his father. Apart from his father, he is the most important relative in the world.

The little grandson is the lifeblood of the master, and Cui Yuanjiu regards him as the most important existence.

He thought that he had enough money hanging in front of him, and his father and stepmother at home would take good care of Brother Cao. He never expected that he would encounter robbers on his way out. This arrogant couple did not know where he heard about it. When something happened to him, he couldn't wait to throw Brother Cao into the mountains.

They thought he would never come back, huh.

"...I saw that you raised Brother Cao very well. You could tell at a glance that you were holding the person in your hands, holding him in your mouth, and treating him like your heart. I didn't want to disturb him, but I felt guilty and felt that I was wrong. I feel sorry for Master Cao's deathbed entrustment. I was too careless and not thorough enough in my work, which caused Brother Cao to suffer in vain."

"I just want to do something within my ability to repay. Your kindness to Brother Cao can be regarded as repaying Master's kindness to me. As I gradually get to know you, I feel that you are all very good people, with a very kind heart, and your family members are very close and harmonious. You are not afraid of my uncle's jokes. He even envies Brother Cao. Being adopted by Brother Ping is really the luckiest and happiest thing in his life."

After talking about Brother Cao's origin, Cui Yuanjiu continued: "I. I talked a little bit about my family situation with my second uncle before. The relationship between my father and my father is not good. My father has an injury on his left leg. He is not very efficient at farm work and has a bad temper. My father is a weak character and silently Working on the ground supported the whole family. My father had a difficult childbirth when I was born, and his health was broken. From then on, he could only take care of the trivial matters at home. Life suddenly became tight, and my father's temper became worse and worse. "

" When I was ten years old, my father passed away. Not even three months later, my father married another daughter-in-law. My stepmother had a strong body and a strong hand at home and outside. My father had a very good temper in front of her. , I had a younger brother within two years, and the family of three lived happily."

"And I was the only one left with the master."

"After I learned that my father and stepmother threw Brother Cao into the mountains, I beat them up. After a while, we broke away from the father-son relationship. My original surname was Zhang, and my father's surname was Cui. I took my father's surname. I will return to the county in a few days and go on a mission with the escort agency. I plan to confess to you today that I and Cao. I don't want to deceive you about the matter between brothers. I have never thought about getting married, let alone Brother Heping's getting married. It's not that I don't want to but I don't dare to think about it. I don't have anything. Life with me is too hard, I thought. In two years, I will save some money, quit the escort agency and live a stable life with me, so that I can have the confidence to talk about getting married."

Chapter 29

After soaking the soybeans at home, Chen Yuping went to the third uncle's house to try his luck to see if there were any pig tails, but he actually did.

Pig tails are a penny a piece, very cheap, and only a few bites of meat in total.

He carried a pig tail back home, planning to make braised pig tail with soybeans. This dish would be eaten in the evening and would be enough for the fish hot pot at noon.

Cui Yuanjiu packed up the fish, carried the bowl, chopping board and kitchen knife to the kitchen house.

Chen Yuping just hung up the pig's tail, glanced at the bowl in his hand, and smiled: "Your knife skills are really good. This fish fillet is very good."

"Yuan Jiu is really neat at work." Father Chen Praise.

Cui Yuanjiu grinned, his eyes slightly bent, and he hung up the chopping board and kitchen knife: "Would you like to make a fire to cook now?"

"Okay."

It didn't rain, so Chen Yuandong brought his wife and daughter over for lunch.

"Brother Cao is awake. Qiao Niu'er is making noises to come over. The rain was a bit heavy before and I didn't let him go. This little kid actually knows how to lose his temper." Liu Guixiang immediately put her daughter on the bamboo couch and let her and Cao Brother joked: "Yuanjiu is helping to light the fire." As he spoke, his eyebrows were full of smiles, and he glanced at Dad again.

Father Chen caught the look from his second daughter-in-law and smiled happily.

"My father and youngest are not back yet?" Chen Yuandong asked.

"Seeing that it's not raining, I said I would go to the fields and take a look."

"I'll take a look too." After a pause, Chen Yuandong asked again: "How long will lunch be?"

Chen Yuping replied: "About half an hour."

Liu Guixiang Help cut vegetables, potatoes, radishes, winter melon, tofu, mushrooms, green vegetables, etc., there are nearly ten kinds, and they will be boiled in the fish hot pot and eaten later.

I made another pot of vermicelli but didn't cook any rice.

Chen Yuping mixed the sauce bowls, one spicy and the other mildly spicy.

When the rain was falling outside, the three old men, Chen and his son, returned home. They returned in time and did not get wet in the rain.

Cui Yuanjiu moved the pot from the small stove to the stove and placed it on the stove. The table next to him was filled with cut and hot vegetables. He would put whatever he wanted to eat directly into the pot.

Each person held a sauce bowl in their hands and sat in a circle around the stove.

The fish soup is boiling in the pot, exuding a rich fragrance. The mist-like heat hits the face with a burning sensation. The drizzle is falling outside, and everyone in the house is enthusiastically eating fish hot pot and drinking snacks. Wine, in the cool weather, I was sweating profusely and even my cheeks were glowing red, with a special spring breeze on my face.

After drinking to his full stomach, Chen Yuanqiu drank to his heart's content for the first time, and his head felt a little dizzy. In fact, he didn't even drink a few sips, he just rarely drank wine and didn't have much drinking capacity.

"Fish hot pot is so comfortable to eat." With blurred eyes, he said with an unfinished expression: "Third brother, it must be very comfortable to eat fish hot pot in the winter."

Chen Yuping was satisfied after not having hot pot for a long time. He said very well: "The soup pot stewed with pork bones is also very fragrant."

"Brother Ping is still good at cooking." Liu Guixiang touched her face, a little sad: "I often come here to eat these days, and I find that I She has gained weight, even Qiao Niuer has gained a lot of weight. "Eating well and having enough milk, both mother and son have gained weight.

Chen Yuandong quickly answered: "It's not too fat, it's just right." He hugged it softly and kissed it softly.

"Second sister-in-law, look at my second brother, look at that look in his eyes, I'm getting goosebumps." Chen Yuanqiu rubbed his arms: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

Old man Chen, holding a cup of strong tea leisurely, glanced at He glanced at his younger son and retorted, "I'll learn more from your second brother." The two of them had a good relationship, and the elders felt at ease when they saw it.

The eldest son and his wife are far inferior to the second son and his wife. Zhang Zhiwei is just not enlightened. He only knows how to live a boring life without thinking. There is nothing wrong with such a life, but it is too dull. The two of them still need to be closer to each other. , life is bitter and tiring, but my heart is also sweet.

"I'm learning. Not only do I want to learn more from my second brother, but I also want to learn more from my father." Chen Yuanqiu blew a rainbow fart crazily, hoping that his father would stop talking about him all the time: "Speaking of loving my companion, My father thinks he is second, but no one dares to think he is first." He gave a thumbs up, with a serious look on his face.

Old man Chen smiled, probably because he had drunk some wine, and his mood was a little moody: "Your father wanted to do this for me and put him in his heart. Otherwise, how could I, a poor man, marry you?" Dad, your father was a well-known good man from all over the country. There were many people who wanted to marry him, and the conditions were better than mine, but he didn't even choose, so he chose me!" "

He drank! "More." Listening to his wife's voice, Father Chen knew that he was a little drunk: "Don't listen to his nonsense. It's one thing to do him a favor, but it's also to see that he is smart and willing to work hard, and he is quick to do things. He is upright and does not play tricks, he is true to his duty, and he said he would be good to me all his life. After most of his life, I have not seen any change in him after being married for many years. He is still the same as when we first got married. When you get married, you have to find the right person. It doesn't matter whether you have money or not. As long as you are diligent and think fast, you don't have to worry about food and clothing. The most important thing is to put it in your heart."

Father Chen said this with a hint of meaning. He glanced at Cui Yuanjiu.

I don't know if this man took it into his heart.

It didn't rain in the afternoon, so business at the stalls picked up.

Old man Chen led his youngest son to make tofu, Chen Yuandong went to work in the fields, Liu Guixiang and father Chen guarded the stall while watching the children, and Chen Yuping and Cui Yuanjiu were cleaning pig intestines behind the house.

"You should have been to many places with the escorts."

"You rarely go to the north and mostly walk around in the south. The escorts who are too far away will not pick up the escorts. It is too dangerous. In fact, there are not many good ones in the escort agency."

Chen Yuping He smiled kindly: "Tell me about the outside world."

"A few months ago, I went to Xiucheng with the escort. It is a very beautiful and wealthy place. The people who live in Xiucheng are very polite. There are few people there. Yelling loudly, I have never seen many ugly people. There is a bit of elegance in their eyebrows and eyes, and their speech and behavior are not the same as us."

Cui Yuanjiu talked about the people in Xiucheng, and then the scene. One thing, what he had seen and experienced, he slowly described it in detail and carefully.

Chen Yuping listened to him talk about Xiucheng, and then talked about Tongcheng, and then Monan... There are many places, and the customs and scenery of each place are different. The elegance of Xiucheng, the literati atmosphere of Tongcheng, the generosity of Monan, etc. .

He felt yearned for it and wished he could go to every place.

"I also ate a kind of grilled skewers. It was a shop opened by a northerner. I don't know what kind of spices were sprinkled on it. It tasted very fragrant."

Maybe it was cumin? Chen Yuping thought about it and said: "If you come across this kind of spice outside, you can buy some and bring it back to me. We can also grill skewers and try what it tastes like."

"When I meet you, I will buy it for you. It's really special. " Fragrant, the shop is not big and the business is very popular."

Father Chen went to the stove house and heard voices by the well behind the house. After a while, he entered the stove house and heard voices by the well behind the house again.

Within an hour, he went to the stove house three times, and every time he could hear voices by the well behind the house.

He didn't show it on his face, but he was actually happy in his heart.

Cui Yuanjiu is a little young man, but he is calm, honest, conscientious, and capable of making money. He is also tall and strong, and he looks reliable. He can think quickly and work quickly. Basically, he is tall and strong. It's all easy to understand at a glance. Except that his family is a little poorer, it doesn't matter. He has broken away from the Zhang family.

If the two of them really get together, they will probably live here in Kuzhu Village. Brother Ping also wants to build a triple courtyard around the old house. This way, they will be close to each other, making it easier to travel and have someone to take care of them.

"Dad, you think the Cui family guy is very good?"

Mr. Chen nodded, and did not hide his love for his second daughter-in-law: "I like him in every aspect. If Brother Ping and him can really get together, they will definitely not live like this." Bad. The most important thing is that Yuan Jiu will probably live with Brother Ping in Kuzhu Village. As you know, Brother Ping has a difficult time giving birth. I just want him to be closer. If there is something wrong, he will know it earlier. Your father and I are relieved to see it under our noses."

"That's true." Liu Guixiang is also a mother herself and knows very well what her elders think. She also wants to see her daughter under her nose. It's better to stay there.

Dinner is braised pig tail with soybeans, mapo tofu, fried pork with chili, and vegetable and mushroom soup.

The weather was not good, so there were seven shrimp paste steamed buns left today, and two tea eggs were left, so I steamed the steamed buns again and ate them with shrimp paste or with vegetables.

After dinner, while it was still early in the day, Cui Yuanjiu left the Chen family with a relaxed pace and a smile on his face. He knew at a glance that something good had happened to him.

The young man spoke sourly: "It's good for you. You eat well at Chen's house. I don't know how nourishing it is. I've been chewing steamed buns all day and eagerly waiting for you to come back with braised meat, but you stayed at Chen's house for a whole day!"

"The fish hot pot that Brother Ping made for lunch was particularly delicious. It was delicious and delicious. I have never had such delicious hot pot."

"You're showing off!"

"For dinner, we had braised pig tails with soybeans and Mapo tofu... ..."

The young man howled as he heard it: "Brother Ninth, if you say one more word, I will go to Chen's house tomorrow!"

"Do you want two tea eggs?"

"Yes!" the young man howled. He rushed over and grabbed the tea eggs: "I didn't take it out earlier. It's so fragrant. It would be better if it had some braised flavor."

"If there are any, I'll bring them back to you."

"I remembered it, but I didn't bring it back. I will go to the Chen family to buy it myself."

Cui Yuanjiu remembered that there was a seventeen-year-old boy in the Chen family. He glanced at the boy and ate the tea eggs with gusto. The sixteen-year-old brother, um... touched his chin. : "You can go to the Chen family with me tomorrow. I confessed Brother Cao's life experience to the Chen family today."

"I just said, why do you look so happy in your face? The Chen family is really nice!" Thumb, continue to eat tea eggs.

When Cui Yuanjiu talked about Brother Cao, only Chen Chen and Chen Yuping were in the kitchen house, and the rest of the Chen family did not know.

Lying in bed at night, Mr. Chen talked carefully to his wife, and then talked about his thoughts: "I think this child is very good and can live a good life. What do you think?"

"How long has it been? Let's see first. " Let's look at it, it looks really good at the moment, he is really reliable. Brother Ping is looking for him as a companion, and we can watch it under our noses, so we don't have to worry. Besides, Brother Cao is the lifeblood of his master. , He is also a person who cares about kindness. Even if the couple does have a child in the future, they will not wrong Brother Cao."

"That's what I think. Brother Ping has found another man, and this is his biological child. Yes, there will always be something different. When Brother Ping is caught in the middle, life will be miserable, and there will be no peace. "Dad Chen decided that Brother Cao was his little grandson, a thin and weak one. The baby looks fat and white now, but it took a lot of effort from Brother Heping.

"I think Brother Ping may also have this idea. He and Yuan Jiu were chatting and laughing this afternoon. We have been chatting. I have never seen him so enthusiastic before."

Old man Chen was a little surprised: "Cleaning "When it comes to pig intestines?"

"Yes, for more than an hour."

"Brother Ping has a good idea. Let's just follow his ideas. Don't get involved too much.

" There was a smile in Mr. Chen's words: "I promise not to say a word between them. I won't even look at them. I will let them do it by themselves. The paper will be torn. The two of them are really thoughtful. They don't need to." If we say more, it will naturally develop, I understand, don't worry. "

Chapter 30

Chen Yuping marinated four large jars of red fermented bean curd.

The tofu that Mr. Chen and his son made yesterday afternoon were all in these four big jars.

Chen Yuanqiu was thinking about the taste of fermented bean curd. It was already the end of September, and there were still three or two days before the opening of the altar in October. He was itching to wait.

"Third brother, you really can't open the altar in advance?"

"No." Chen Yuping shook his head ruthlessly and refused: "If you don't have enough time, it will lose some of the charming flavor."

"I had a dream last night. I dreamed that you opened the altar. I stretched out my hand. I was about to take a bite with my chopsticks, but the fermented bean curd was knocked over and fell to the ground!" Chen Yuanqiu's eyes were full of heartache, and he clutched his chest: "You don't know how disgusted I was at that time! I woke up from my dream and realized that it was actually a man! Meng, I haven't slept well for the rest of the night. Third brother, look at me, my eyes are turning blue."

Chen Yuping couldn't laugh or cry: "You must be promising, you eat and drink well every day, why are you so greedy?"

"That's different. There's a big difference between the delicious food that goes into your mouth and the delicious food that doesn't go into your mouth."

Hearing what he said was a bit dangerous, Chen Yuping reminded him: "My youngest, you treated others like pearls before you got married. Xibao, it's not okay to treat people like nothing after getting married."

"What the hell?" Chen Yuanqiu's eyes widened: "Third brother, why are you trying to imitate my father? This is such an injustice! Well, as a man of the Chen family, I must look up to my father and second brother, and I cannot embarrass our old Chen family!" He straightened his chest.

"As long as you understand."

Father Chen walked in with Brother Cao in his arms: "What did you two brothers say?"

"The youngest has enlightened and said that he wants to be like his father and second brother, and they will become close companions in the future. I put it on my heart." Chen Yuping replied seriously.

Chen Yuanqiu looked at Third Brother: "How bad you are. Third Brother didn't expect you to be such a Third Brother." Before his father could say anything, he quickly ran away and was about to leave the house. He didn't forget to turn around and yell: " Third brother, I remember it!"

As soon as he finished speaking, he bumped into someone. Cui Yuanjiu stood behind him and helped the boy with quick eyesight, so that the two of them didn't fall together.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, are you okay?" Chen Yuanqiu stood up straight in a panic, his face flushed, embarrassed and shy.

The young man rubbed his nose and said angrily: "It's okay, my nose just hurts a little."

"He bumped into someone. Didn't the child have a nosebleed? Let me take a look." Father Chen gave Brother Cao'er to his third son, He came under the eaves in three steps and two steps, and asked in a gentle voice, even his eyes were exceptionally soft and kind: "My youngest is a loser. I'm sorry, kid, does it still hurt? I Can I put a cold bandana on you?"

"No, it doesn't hurt anymore." The young man smiled at Father Chen, his eyes sparkling. Brother Ninth said that the Chen family are very nice, and they are indeed good. This uncle is so gentle and has a warm heart. No wonder Brother Ninth likes to stay in the Chen family.

Father Chen led people into the house and made two bowls of tea: "You must be Yuan Jiu's friend. I'm staying for a quick lunch today." His nose was still red, but fortunately there was no bleeding.

"Okay, okay." The young man didn't know how to write the word polite at all.

"We both work in the escort agency. His surname is Shen, and his last name is Le."

Father Chen nodded: "Brother Le."

"Hey, Second Uncle Chen." Shen Le responded happily, and the second uncle called out in a special way. sweet.

At first glance, Chen Yuanqiu thought this scene was a bit strange. He scratched the back of his head and said, "Dad, I'm going to go take a look in the fields."

"Go, go." Chen Yuchun

had not gone to Chen's house for a while, so Chen Yuchun packed up the trivial things at home. , having nothing to do, he took Da Zhuang and An Geer back to Chen's house.

There are two unknown people in the house. One of them seems to come to the stall often to buy food? I have seen it a few times and have some impressions.

Dad and Brother Heping are very familiar with them.

He thought, a man and a brother, could it be related to Brother Ping and the youngest?

"Brother Chun is here." Father Chen was very happy to see his two grandsons.

Da Zhuang likes to stay in the Chen family and is very close to the Chen family. He seems to be a lot bolder and calls people one by one in a soft and waxy manner.

Father Chen went to his second son's house and asked his second daughter-in-law not to prepare lunch but to go to the old house to eat together at noon.

When Liu Guixiang heard that Brother Chun had come with his two children, she went to the old house with Qiao Niuer in her arms. The three little ones, who were only two months apart in age, were having a great time playing on the bamboo couch. Sitting by the bamboo couch, watching his younger brothers and sisters play, grinning with joy.

Egg sauce topped with mashed potatoes was specially made for Da Zhuang. He liked it very much after making it last time. Chen Yuping remembered it and made it again today.

Stewed winter melon bones, twice-cooked pork, steamed pork ribs with taro, cold shredded radish, pickled cucumber, boiled fish, stir-fried three shredded vegetables, and shrimp paste tofu.

I originally wanted to stew a chicken but I didn't have enough time, but nine dishes were enough. They filled the entire table, looking rich and delicious.

Shen Le didn't even dare to look at the dinner table, for fear that he couldn't help drooling. He only dared to secretly glance at it with his peripheral vision, and the rich aroma of the vegetables went straight to his nose, it was delicious! So delicious!

He has seen the world, been to many places, and tasted many delicacies, but the craftsmanship of the third brother of the Chen family is really amazing! Ordinary ingredients can be made into something so delicious when he has it in his hands. This skill is rare. If he opens a restaurant in the county town, he will make a lot of money.

If Brother Cao'er can be adopted by the third brother of the Chen family, he will be lucky in his life.

After the meal, Cui Yuanjiu helped clean the pig intestines as usual, tidied up the trivial tasks inside and outside the house, and then left with Shen Le.

When leaving, Shen Le held braised pig's trotters, five-spice tea eggs, shrimp paste steamed buns, and braised pig intestines, which cost a full 20 cents! This is his dinner today, and it makes him happy just thinking about it.

"This is my dinner, and it's not your share."

Cui Yuanjiu replied expressionlessly: "I won't steal your dinner."

"Humph."

The next morning, when the sky was dark, Father Chen and Old Man Chen had just arrived. Just got up.

It rained all night last night, but it has stopped now. On the overcast sky, there is a cool wind blowing, mixed with a bit of chill.

Cui Yuanjiu came to Chen's house with large and small bags in his hands.

"I will leave for the county town tomorrow. I don't know how long this trip will take. I bought some things for Brother Cao." There is also a lot of food and drink for the Chen family.

"That's so unconventional." Father Chen looked at the big and small bags on the table. He was quite satisfied. He was a thoughtful person: "Brother Le didn't come with you?" He quite liked this little brother, he was lively and laughed. Very cheerful.

"He had something to do in town, so he didn't come over."

"Why don't you stay and have lunch before leaving? Don't delay the matter, right?"

"No delay."

It was October, and Chen Yuanqiu looked extremely excited early in the morning.

"Why hasn't Third Brother gotten up yet?" He kept saying it over and over again. He could hardly control his hands and wanted to open the jar or knock on the door to tell Third Brother to get up.

It's so torturous!

Old man Chen annoyed him by walking up and down under the eaves: "If you are so free, take the cow out to eat the grass and come back."

"I don't. Third brother will get up soon." It was rare for him to refuse.

Old man Chen raised his eyebrows.

Chen Yuanqiu ran to the kitchen: "I won't go out, and I won't go out

until the third brother gets up." "You followed him. You have been thinking about him for a month, and you are going crazy." Old Chen shook his head and came to the third brother. In front of his son's house: "Brother Ping, it's time to make some fruit powder for Brother Cao."

Chen Yuping replied with a smile: "Dad, I woke up a long time ago." He deliberately teased Brother Cao in bed. Playing, the father and son were playing quietly, which was quite interesting.

"You are also naughty." Father Chen hugged Brother Cao and took his little grandson to make fruit powder to eat.

Chen Yuanqiu, who was listening to the noise outside, immediately rushed out: "Third brother, third brother, you are finally awake!"

"Let's go." Chen Yuping couldn't do anything to him, so he took a bowl and a pair of chopsticks, opened the lid of the altar, and said, Using skill, I carefully picked up a few pieces of fermented bean curd. They were red and very appetizing just by looking at the color, which made my mouth water.

Chen Yuanqiu sniffed twice: "What is this?" It's not really fragrant, but it looks delicious: "Third brother, it smells a bit stinky."

"It tastes very delicious." Chen Yuping smiled and couldn't help but swallowed: "I like it very much. Send this bowl to the second brother's house. When we get back, we will have breakfast."

With fermented bean curd here, breakfast is very simple. , white rice porridge with fermented bean curd, cold shredded radish, and a dish of pickled cucumbers. The shredded radish is mixed with red oil chili by Chen Yuping. His special red oil chili is not very spicy, but it is very fragrant when you eat it. It is fragrant and crispy. The radish The juice is juicy and sweet, and it goes well with red oil and spicy pepper.

He had pickled the pickled cucumbers a while ago. It was only a small jar and there wasn't much left.

"Third brother, second sister-in-law made green onion pancakes." Chen Yuanqiu walked into the room carrying a plate.

Father Chen looked at him and said, "Why did you take so much? How many cakes can she bake with a child?" After saying that, he walked out and said, "Daughter-in-law of Yuan Dong, we cook a lot of white rice porridge at home. Don't bake chopped green onions." "The cakes are here, come and have some together."

"My dad called us over for dinner," Liu Guixiang said to her husband.

Chen Yuandong held a cake in his hand and was smearing fermented bean curd on the cake: "Then let's go over and eat, and take the remaining cakes as well."

"Okay." Liu Guixiang was still thinking that she was afraid that her husband would not eat enough. Just make some gnocchi, it will save trouble.

"It doesn't smell good, and it's a bit smelly, but it tastes really amazing!" Chen Yuanqiu was shocked: "It tastes good with rice porridge, and it tastes good when spread on pancakes. Even if it's eaten naked, it's very delicious." Taste, this is delicious, third brother, you are so awesome." When he opened his mouth, he couldn't stop himself from eating anything delicious, and he blew a rainbow fart.

Old man Chen frowned and said, "It's a bit weird." He smacked his mouth and tasted some more. He still felt it was a bit weird, but with his chopsticks, he kept pushing into the bowl and eating bit by bit. , the more you eat, the more interesting it becomes.

"You drink some porridge, or take a few bites of pancakes." Father Chen pushed his wife.

"Yeah, yeah." Old Chen responded perfunctorily. He finished a piece of fermented bean curd, and then he relaxed his expression. He chewed two bites of the green onion cake in his hand and took another sip of white rice porridge: "Smells good!"

Chen Yuanqiu hummed. : "My father ate really hard. He ate up one piece in one go." Each person only got two pieces in the bowl, so he had to eat slowly and taste it bit by bit.

When Liu Guixiang was full, she put down her chopsticks and smiled crookedly: "I wasn't used to eating at first, so after taking a few more bites, the taste started to taste. I felt like my stomach was about to reach my throat. I had to get up and move around. "I'll take Qiao Niuer to the door later to talk."

"Do you want half of the bowl?" Chen Yuandong asked his wife.

"You eat, I'm full."

Chen Yuandong happily picked up half a piece of fermented bean curd, opened his mouth and took a bite without chewing, just sipped it gently with his tongue, and the wonderful taste bloomed in the mouth. After taking a bite of the pancake, he pressed it Press, the more you chew, the more flavorful it becomes.

Soon, the villagers and neighbors who came to Chen's stall to buy food discovered that there was an extra dish on the stall. This food was unusual. It smelled a bit smelly. Some people said it was fragrant. It was placed on a white plate and was red. It was shiny and eye-catching. It cost two yuan a penny, and there were two small jars next to it, worth twenty-five pence each.