Chapter 13: This Hundred Dollars is Worth It!

Qin Ju stayed by her father, Qin Zhonghui's side throughout the hospital visit, overseeing all his examinations and consultations with the outpatient doctor. The morning sun cast a warm glow through the windows, illuminating the sterile white walls of the hospital. As they were about to leave, the doctor gave them a detailed update on Qin Zhonghui's condition.

"You may end up with a scar on your hand, but it's not a serious issue," the doctor said as he reviewed the medical reports. "Apply ointment regularly and keep it dry. With a month of rest, it should heal. Your reports show some minor health issues, but nothing major. However, you are malnourished."

Qin Zhonghui, in his thirties and otherwise strong and sturdy, was surprised to hear that he was malnourished. This was not what he had expected. His physique, tall and robust, seemed to contradict the doctor's assessment. It was clear to Qin Ju why this was the case. Her father, always frugal, had a history of sacrificing his own needs for the sake of his family. He had often put the well-being of his wife and children before his own, which had led to his current health problems.

Despite his occasional carelessness and misplaced trust in his parents and siblings, he had always been a kind and generous husband to Su Yun and a devoted father. He may not have known how to express his fatherly affection, but his love for his family was evident in his actions.

The doctor's advice was stern. "You need to eat more meat and maintain a balanced diet. And you must eat regularly from now on. Skipping meals or overeating can worsen your stomach problems and may even lead to cancer. Think about your daughter. How will she handle your medical expenses in the future?"

Hearing the word "cancer" struck a chord with Qin Zhonghui. He knew he was crucial to the family's well-being and immediately felt the gravity of the situation. He had always worked hard to provide for his family, and the thought of leaving them with mounting medical expenses was distressing. "Alright, doctor, I'll start eating on time," he promised earnestly.

The doctor's stern demeanor softened a bit. "And remember, no excessive drinking. A few sips occasionally are fine, but no more."

"Got it," Qin Zhonghui replied, nodding vigorously.

Watching her father, who looked like a chastised schoolboy, Qin Ju couldn't help but smile. It was both heartening and amusing to see him take the doctor's advice so seriously. She admired his willingness to change his habits for the sake of his health and his family.

As they left the hospital, Qin Zhonghui glanced at the bill, which amounted to over 100 yuan, and grimaced. "It cost quite a bit. We'll need to be careful with our expenses."

Qin Ju reassured him, "Dad, think about it this way. Spending 100 yuan now is an investment in your health. If we don't address these issues early, the costs could escalate significantly if your condition worsens. Moreover, you would have to endure more severe pain. So, this 100 yuan is actually a worthwhile expense."

Despite the logic, Qin Zhonghui's expression remained troubled. "Xiaojiu, I understand, but our family isn't wealthy. This is quite a strain on our budget."

Qin Ju encouraged him, "Dad, with good health, we'll be able to earn more and improve our lives. A healthy body is an asset, and it will allow us to achieve our goals and provide a better future for our family."

Her father's expression softened, and he nodded firmly. "You're right, Xiaojiu. I'll make sure that our family lives well in the future. I won't let you down."

They finished their appointment, and Qin Ju's mother, Su Yun, had also made progress with her own tasks. She had successfully enlisted her second brother, Su Lei, to help with Xiao Shi's schooling. The process had been smoother than expected, and Su Yun was relieved.

As they prepared to leave the hospital, Sun Miaohong, Su Lei's wife, greeted Su Yun warmly. "Xiao Yun, you've brought so many things. You really didn't have to. We're family, after all."

Although the words were polite, Su Yun noticed a genuine warmth in Sun Miaohong's demeanor that wasn't present during their previous interactions. The second sister-in-law's attitude had shifted, and Su Yun could sense the change. She reflected on Qin Ju's advice—that asking for help from others could be seen as a favor, and it was her second sister-in-law's duty to help as much as she could.

Sun Miaohong then extended an invitation for dinner. "Why don't you and Xiao Shi join us for a meal? We'd love to have you."

Su Yun hesitated for a moment before replying, "My son Zhonghui burned his hand, so Xiaojiu stayed with him at the hospital. We're planning to meet later at the county hospital and head home together. But thank you for the invitation."

Sun Miaohong smiled. "Next time, then. We'll be sure to have you over soon."

As Su Yun and Xiao Shi headed toward the hospital, Qin Ju caught sight of Shen Yi waiting nearby. She had not expected to see him again so soon. Their previous encounter at the hospital had left her feeling unsettled, and now she felt an odd mixture of familiarity and discomfort.

Shen Yi approached her with a casual air. "How was the visit? Did everything go well with your father?"

Qin Ju nodded. "Yes, it went well. The doctor's advice was helpful, and we're taking steps to ensure my father's health improves."

Shen Yi's gaze softened as he looked at her. "I'm glad to hear that. Health is important. We have to take care of ourselves and our loved ones."

Qin Ju felt a pang of gratitude for Shen Yi's concern. Despite their complicated past, she appreciated his kindness. She took a deep breath, ready to move forward with a positive mindset.

As they stood outside the hospital, waiting for Qin Zhonghui to finish up, Qin Ju and Shen Yi exchanged a few more words. The conversation was polite but strained, and Qin Ju couldn't shake the feeling of awkwardness.

When Qin Zhonghui finally emerged from the examination room, Qin Ju quickly moved to his side. She was relieved to see him looking more at ease. They exchanged brief farewells with Shen Yi and his grandfather, Mr. Du, who had been waiting nearby.

Mr. Du, with his kind eyes and gentle demeanor, looked at Qin Ju and smiled warmly. "Girl, you look familiar to me."

Qin Ju's heart ached at the sight of the old man's kind smile. She remembered how Mr. Du had looked in her previous life, frail and diminished by illness. The memory brought a wave of sorrow, but she pushed it aside.

She took a deep breath and forced a smile. "Really? I also feel that Grandpa looks very kind."

Shen Yi, observing the interaction, couldn't help but be touched by the genuine warmth between Qin Ju and his grandfather. The tenderness in his own expression was momentary but visible.

As they prepared to leave, Mr. Du said, "Xiao Yi, this is the first friend you've made since coming to Ping'an Town. The grapes at home are almost ripe. Why don't you invite her to visit us sometime?"

Shen Yi nodded, a small smile on his face. "I'll definitely make the invitation."

Qin Ju and her family left the hospital with a sense of accomplishment and relief. They had managed to address Qin Zhonghui's health issues and complete their errands for the day. As they drove home, Qin Ju reflected on the day's events and felt a renewed sense of determination to improve their lives.

**(End of Chapter)**