Envy and Resentment: Tales from the Village Feast

Observing the tense atmosphere among the Li family, Jiang Lixia scolded her son, Huo Zirui, for his overly enthusiastic behavior towards Fu Bao. She then tactfully excused themselves, citing Jin Xi's fondness for the baby. However, deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that her son might have had ulterior motives, albeit unintentionally embarrassing her in front of others.

Meanwhile, preparations for the village feast were in full swing, with guests arriving one by one. Lin Yanfen emerged from the back room cradling Fu Bao, eliciting admiration from the villagers for the well-nurtured baby girl, despite the Shen family's modest means. Fu Bao's rosy cheeks and chubby appearance won over the hearts of all who laid eyes on her.

The scene was heartwarming as the old lady Li presented a delicate silver bracelet, wrapped in red cloth, to little Fu Bao. With tender affection in her eyes, she bestowed upon the child a blessing from her grandmother, wishing her a long and prosperous life filled with health and happiness. Fu Bao's adorable grin in response melted the hearts of those around her.

The villagers, touched by the display of affection and the charming demeanor of Fu Bao, couldn't help but shower her with compliments. They marveled at her cheerful laughter, deeming her to be a remarkably bright and promising child. Some even went so far as to envision a future of beauty and success for her.

Mrs. Li, though inwardly exasperated by the effusive praise, graciously thanked the guests for their kind words and hospitality. She urged everyone to indulge in the feast laid out before them, encouraging them to partake without restraint.

"Indeed, let us enjoy this moment together!"

In the neighboring room, Guan Haifeng glanced out the door and observed the bustling scene in the Shen family's yard. The aroma of food and drink wafted through the air, tempting his senses, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of envy.

"These Shen folks are something else. Always using our well without so much as a thank you. I even asked for a token of gratitude, but all they offered were a few eggs. And now, they're throwing a full moon celebration for their girl, and we weren't even invited!" Guan Haifeng grumbled resentfully.

Unbeknownst to him, the well outside actually belonged to the village chief, who had granted permission for everyone in the vicinity to use it. Due to its proximity to Guan Haifeng's home, he had erroneously assumed ownership. Each time the Shen family drew water from it, it fuelled his ire, leading to heated exchanges with Mrs. Shen.

Despite Mrs. Li's efforts to avoid confrontation, Wang Chunhua remained persistent in her resentment towards the Shen family. She harbored a deep-seated grudge, viewing them with disdain and finding fault in every action they took.

"It's just as I suspected! Li Shen folks are up to no good. If they had any decency, they wouldn't keep secrets from us. Look at the extravagant spread they've laid out for the full moon celebration. They must have spent a fortune! And who knows where they found the means to invite someone as distinguished as Huo's daughter-in-law," Wang Chunhua vented angrily to her husband.

The couple's bitterness had soured their outlook on life, turning them into embodiments of resentment.

"Exactly! Look at how they've completely disregarded our daughter's birthday. They only care about their own affairs and neglect the rest of the community. If it were me, I'd make sure to extend an invitation to everyone for a celebratory drink. That's how you build camaraderie and make merry!" Li Chunhua exclaimed indignantly.

"Who could refuse such an offer?" Guan Haifeng retorted with frustration. "Just look at the lavish feast they've put together for their full moon celebration. It's enough to make anyone envious. And then they go around boasting about their family's status as if they're better than everyone else. Those Shen folks have some nerve!"