Chapter 119: Do Not Let Yourself Become a Fool

Seeing the joyful expressions on their faces, Gu Xiaoyao knew she had gauged the situation correctly; they were indeed reluctant to commit to helping for several days. Since they were all anxious to till their own land, helping for just one morning was likely their limit, though they might have agreed to a full day if pressed.

"Uncles, I understand that you are all eager to finish your own work, so I will only take up half a day of your time. Thank you for your trouble."

"Come to my house for dinner tonight. Even though the arrangement is settled, I still want to show my appreciation."

As soon as the men heard they would be eating at her place that night, their minds immediately began to conjure images of the feast. Gu Xiaoyao had been hunting quite a bit lately, and the kitchen was filled with hanging meat; a dinner invitation surely meant a spread of fine dishes.

"This was already agreed upon, Chengjin's wife. You don't need to be so polite..."

After expressing their delight, the men quickly shouldered their hoes and set off toward the village outskirts to begin clearing the wasteland. Watching them leave, Gu Xiaoyao prepared her own supplies; they could not afford to waste any time.

"Sister-in-law, we are ready too. Is it just digging again today?"

The two Chu brothers were up exceptionally early, looking at Gu Xiaoyao with eager, expectant eyes, clearly keen to get to work.

Seeing how well-behaved they were, Gu Xiaoyao knew they were hoping to gain something from her.

"Xiaoshu, bring out some vegetables and sweet potatoes for them."

Madam Liu was still asleep in her room. After the commotion of the previous day, she had no desire to deal with her two sons. In the kitchen, Gu Xiaoshu heard his sister’s instruction and immediately brought out the food. The brothers took it and happily crouched under the eaves to eat.

"Sister, I have already prepared our lunch. We won't need to come back, which will save us time for digging."

Gu Xiaoshu had packed the meal in a basket so they wouldn't have to waste time returning home at midday. "I've also left food in the pot for Mother and Brother-in-law. By the way, is Brother-in-law still asleep?"

He usually rose much earlier, Gu Xiaoshu thought to himself.

Gu Xiaoyao went into the room and found Chu Chengjin still lying on the kang, his complexion flushed. She reached out and placed her hand on his forehead.

"Chu Chengjin, you have a fever. You need to see a doctor."

Opening his eyes, Chu Chengjin smiled at her despite her words.

"There is no need. My condition cannot be shown to a doctor; I am used to just resting and recuperating at home."

He had gone to great lengths to hide his tracks while returning to Lotus Village to recover. To ensure this sanctuary remained undisturbed, he had to avoid going out and, above all, could not risk frequent trips to the city.

"I understand. You refuse to see a doctor because you are afraid of being discovered here?"

Gu Xiaoyao frowned slightly. She felt it was too dangerous; at this rate, if his fever continued, he might well end up brain-damaged.

"However, if your fever persists and you end up becoming a fool, I won't want you anymore."

Chu Chengjin actually laughed at this, reaching out to gently touch her cheek.

"A husband for a day is a husband for a lifetime. How can you say such hurtful things, my wife? My heart aches!"

Seeing him still in the mood to joke, Gu Xiaoyao glared at him, then fetched a basin of cold water, soaked a towel, and placed it on his forehead.