Chapter 20

"Linxi." Jiang Manzhu knocked on Li Linxi's door, hoping to have a proper conversation with him.

The countryside at night was silent, with only the sounds of barking dogs and certain insects breaking the stillness.

Jiang Manzhu was puzzled by Li Linxi's lack of interest.

As a family member, Jiang Manzhu still felt it was her duty as his sister-in-law to try to persuade him. The key was…

If both of them could get this job, with their 'wages,' well… although not much, it would be comparable to the work points earned from laboring in the fields. Maybe not full work points, but close enough.

At that time, she wouldn't be the only one with money. The worry was if they developed a sense of dependence. She would have a monthly salary, while their work points were only settled at the end of the year.

Human nature… it doesn't stand up well to tests.

Jiang Manzhu admitted she wasn't entirely selfless. Coming to this era of material scarcity, life was already tough.

She wanted to live a better life, and inevitably, in some matters, she was a bit selfish. But she truly believed this was a good opportunity—not only for herself but also for the Li family.

They couldn't compare to the dual-income families in the city, but for a job that so many people were competing for, could it really be bad?

Li Linxi was drying his hair, sitting at the table in his room. Under the dim light of the kerosene lamp, his side profile was faintly visible, with a subtle aura of gloom surrounding him.

Hearing the knock on the door and Jiang Manzhu's voice, Li Linxi frowned. What was she doing here?

And at this hour?

With no response from inside, Jiang Manzhu hesitated. She remembered Li Linxi wasn't in the kitchen or outside, right?

"Come out. I want to talk to you," Jiang Manzhu spoke again, her crisp voice standing out in the quiet night.

Li Linxi didn't expect her to keep making noise even when he hadn't responded. His expression slightly irritated, he got up and opened the door. "What do you want?"

His voice was calm and flat, but his sharp gaze, especially in the dim light, gave off a somewhat eerie vibe.

"Linxi, come out," Jiang Manzhu said, knowing her position and not intending to step inside. She wanted him to come out instead.

Unfortunately, Li Linxi didn't seem to get her hint and just stood there silently.

His expression was one of resistance, clearly showing that he didn't want to talk to her, as if there was nothing worth discussing.

In Li Linxi's eyes, Jiang Manzhu never had anything serious to say. No, he should say, all this time, there had never been anything serious!

"Linxi, I have something important to discuss. If you don't come out, I'll go in!" Jiang Manzhu frowned, her face growing stern, feeling a bit angry. Wasn't their family supposed to be close?

As a family, as your sister-in-law, I'm taking the initiative to talk to you, and you're resisting? Are we still a family or not?

Of course, Jiang Manzhu's words also stemmed from knowing that Li Linxi was resistant to her.

Sure enough, when she said that, Li Linxi loosened his grip on the door. "Say what you need to."

"Linxi, why won't you try taking the exam to become a teacher? It's a good job, isn't it?" Jiang Manzhu asked, stating her perspective.

"It's close to home, so you can take care of Mom and Xiaobei. And if we both work at the school, Mom wouldn't have to work so hard. We could even have her do lighter work like cutting pigweed."

"If you have other plans, can they be easier than this job? Even if they exist, would they take you to the city? But being so far from home, how could you take care of Mom and Xiaobei?"

"If you become a teacher, you'd have more days off. You'd even have summer and winter breaks. It may not compare to city workers, but it would give you free time to do what you want, right?"

She couldn't believe Li Linxi hadn't thought of this. He wasn't stupid.

After she finished speaking, Li Linxi chuckled lightly and casually responded with a question, "Oh? What would I want to do?"

He appeared gentle and kind, but Jiang Manzhu could feel a chill surrounding her.

What's going on??

Male lead, are you plotting against me?

There are always schemers trying to harm the emperor! Being a side character really is dangerous.

"Linxi, I don't know what you want to do, but I do know this: 'A golden carp is not destined to stay in the pond. When the winds change, it becomes a dragon…' uh, 'transformed by the spring breeze to protect…,' um, when the wind and clouds gather, it changes into a dragon. Whatever your plans are, you'll need time to carry them out, right?"

Damn, I almost misquoted the poem… I did misquote it. A slight flush of embarrassment appeared on Jiang Manzhu's face. Oh well, it fit Li Linxi's situation well enough.

"Is that so?" The two light words floated from his lips, and that gentle, kind smile darkened. In the dim light, the shadows on his face flickered.

He looked down at her, a trace of calculation in his eyes.

"Li Linxi, I'm talking to you about something serious! Am I wrong? Right now, the family has no income, and if we run out of money and something happens, there won't be a way to deal with it."

Seeing how indifferent Li Linxi was, Jiang Manzhu grew more and more displeased, her tone and expression showing her frustration.

Maybe it was because Jiang Manzhu raised her voice, but she woke Liu Jumai, who had already gone to bed.

"Who's there?" Liu Jumai's old age made her sleep lighter than before. Worried someone had broken in, she hurried out.

Hearing Liu Jumai's voice, Jiang Manzhu's mind went blank. Maybe it was because the two of them were naturally in an awkward position.

Especially at night, standing at her brother-in-law's door, a young and beautiful widow… this, this, this… if her mother-in-law saw…

Her room wasn't even across from Li Linxi's. In this situation, she started to panic.

In the next moment, she came up with a quick excuse and called out toward Liu Jumai, "Mom, it's me. I got up to get some water because I was thirsty."

Hearing Jiang Manzhu's voice, Liu Jumai relaxed. "Oh, alright, just make sure you go to bed early after you finish. You still have the exam tomorrow."

Liu Jumai's concern made Jiang Manzhu respond quickly, "I know, Mom, I'll be quiet so I don't disturb you."

Her voice was shaky with nervousness. If Liu Jumai had been more alert, she might have noticed.

Liu Jumai, still groggy, didn't notice, but Li Linxi heard everything clearly. The dim light illuminated Jiang Manzhu's beautiful face.

Her face, trembling with anxiety and unease, looked delicate. In the low light, she appeared even more fragile and weak.

Clearly, she was terrified of being caught. Li Linxi's lips curled into a slight smirk, almost like a cold sneer.

Liu Jumai didn't say anything more, and since there were no more sounds of her moving, Jiang Manzhu let out a sigh of relief. That was close.

"So scared? Then watch your behavior and don't come looking for me late at night," Li Linxi warned Jiang Manzhu. Just because you're pretty doesn't mean you can seduce anyone…

Don't mess with me!

That was Li Linxi's intention, but in this situation, in such a subtle atmosphere, to an outsider, it might have sounded like he was teasing her.

It felt like a strange, playful tension. Jiang Manzhu glanced at Li Linxi again, sizing him up.

Li Linxi realized something felt off about his words, but he didn't dwell on it.

He only wanted to remind Jiang Manzhu to remember her place and not get any improper ideas.

"Linxi, think about what I said. Your life is yours to live; I'm just giving you advice."

Jiang Manzhu was tired of Li Linxi's attitude and didn't want to continue. She'd said enough.

Li Linxi was smart. He understood her meaning and knew what he wanted for himself.

Jiang Manzhu, realizing it was no longer appropriate to stay there, turned and went back to her room.

"Hmph, do you think you're that desirable? Even the village girls didn't fancy you!" (referring to a previous failed match).

Jiang Manzhu left with a lighthearted attitude, leaving Li Linxi frowning. In the next second, he shut the door.

Though his calm expression masked any emotions, coldness surged deep in his gaze. He could use the connections his second brother left behind to go to the city and work.

But, as Jiang Manzhu said, it wasn't feasible to immediately take his mother and Xiaobei to the city.

Otherwise, how could he feel at ease leaving them at home?

The next day, just as dawn was breaking, Liu Jumai woke Jiang Manzhu up, "Manzhu, Manzhu, get up quickly and have breakfast. You don't want to be late!"

Startled, Jiang Manzhu scrambled out of bed. What? Late??

But when she got up, she realized… what? It was only a little past six…

Well, fine… it seems all mothers are like this, just like those short videos where they yell, "Get up! It's already nine!" and when you get up, you realize it's only six or seven, and breakfast isn't even ready yet…

"Come on, Manzhu, eat this egg. It will help you do well on the exam." Eggs are brain food, surely our Manzhu will succeed.

"Thanks, Mom." Jiang Manzhu didn't refuse and ate heartily before heading out confidently… to cut pigweed.

Since the exam started at noon, Jiang Manzhu sighed softly. Why did I need to wake up so early?

Even the village leader was concerned. After all, if someone from their production team got into elementary school and was hired by the principal, the principal would apply to the commune to send a teacher down.

Such a great opportunity couldn't be given away.

Last night, the village leader even visited the homes of the students who had attended middle school, encouraging them to do their best in the exam. If they succeeded, they would be considered half city folk.

Why only half? Because they were still in the village, without city household registration or access to commercial food, but they wouldn't have to work in the fields and could earn a salary.

So, by 11 a.m., the village leader went to the fields to notify the villagers and educated youth who were taking the exam that they could go home for lunch before heading to the elementary school.

At home, Jiang Manzhu knew she needed to be at the school before noon, so she prepared lunch early.

As she was about to eat something to fill her stomach, she saw Liu Jumai and Li Linxi returning.

"Mom? Linxi? Why are you back? Did something happen?" Jiang Manzhu was full of surprise. At this time of day, could it be that something big happened in the village?

"Isn't it because you and Linxi are taking the exam? I can't stop worrying about you two," Liu Jumai said, clearly concerned. This was the most important event in the family since the passing of Lin Dong and Lin Nan!

Hmm… Li Linxi dropping out of high school was important too, but that was in the past.

Linxi? You two?

Jiang Manzhu glanced at Li Linxi in surprise. Brother, didn't you say you weren't going yesterday? Did I persuade you?

First, she was surprised, then proud. See, I told you my reasoning made sense! Listen to me, and you won't go wrong.

Seeing Jiang Manzhu's smug look, practically wagging her tail in satisfaction, Li Linxi couldn't bear to look at her, shifting his gaze away.

He thought Jiang Manzhu wasn't very bright. Just seeing her like this now made it obvious.

Liu Jumai, like a mother seeing her child take the college entrance exam, prepared a water bottle, worried they might get thirsty and lose focus.

"Should we bring paper and pens? Better take them just in case the school didn't prepare enough."

"Hurry up, eat something to fill your stomach."

Liu Jumai was more anxious than the two exam-takers themselves.

Xiaobei was hopping around nearby, wanting to help but realizing there was nothing he could do.

What about me? What can I do to help? I want to cheer for Sister-in-law and Brother Linxi too!!!

Liu Jumai, seeing Xiaobei jumping around, pressed his head down, "Don't get in the way."

After eating, they stepped out into the autumn sunshine. Jiang Manzhu had borrowed Li Linxi's umbrella from before.

"Linxi, you're a guy, you'll look healthier and more attractive with a tan." She gave this ridiculous reason before taking the umbrella.

Li Linxi, of course, knew she wasn't saying anything truthful. However, the weather wasn't too hot at the moment, and he didn't plan to use an umbrella anyway.

It wasn't necessary.

With a water bottle slung around his neck and a small cloth bag in hand containing the pens and paper Liu Jumai insisted he take, they walked towards the school, joining others who were likely heading for the exam as well.

"Li Linxi, you're taking the exam too?" A female voice called from behind, sounding quite delighted.

Li Linxi didn't react much, but Jiang Manzhu curiously turned around to see who it was, wondering who had such good taste—perhaps someone interested in Linxi?

Ah, it was Su Qianqian?

Upon seeing Su Qianqian, Jiang Manzhu remembered what her mother-in-law had said at the dinner table, adamantly refusing to accept Su Qianqian as a daughter-in-law.

Jiang Manzhu glanced at Li Linxi again, wondering how he felt about Su Qianqian.

Oh, still that calm and indifferent expression, though perhaps slightly… gentler, given they were outside.

Seeing Li Linxi not reply, Su Qianqian didn't mind. She quickly caught up and started walking beside him, "Linxi, what a coincidence."

Su Qianqian was accompanied by another village girl, who, seeing her behavior, couldn't help but think, Ah, Su Qianqian still hasn't given up on Li Linxi, has she?

Aside from her, a few educated youths walking nearby also noticed the scene. The village leader's daughter seemed to be fawning over Li Linxi, prompting some to glance at Luo Liangce in the distance.

Tsk, tsk, tsk. He used to be the village leader's future son-in-law.

Now… to think that the once proud Su Qianqian would stoop so low, chasing after someone who didn't even care for her?

Li Linxi didn't plan to respond, leaving Jiang Manzhu feeling second-hand embarrassment for Su Qianqian.

However, Jiang Manzhu didn't plan to answer for him. She wasn't anyone special to Li Linxi, and carrying the umbrella was tiring and hot.

Eventually, they met some other educated youths, and unlike the quiet Li Linxi, Jiang Manzhu was a social butterfly.

Within moments, she had struck up a conversation with two female educated youths, and soon laughter filled the air.

Li Linxi occasionally glanced at her, puzzled. Since she could chat so easily with these educated youths, why didn't she want to return to the educated youth camp?

What was so good about staying with the Li family?

Su Qianqian, still focused on Li Linxi, thought, If I don't get close to him now, I might only be able to admire him from afar in the future.

In her mind, even if the entire village gossiped about her and looked at her with judgmental eyes, as long as she married Li Linxi, it would all be worth it.

These narrow-minded people had no idea how much potential Li Linxi had.

"Linxi, in this hot weather, why don't you have an umbrella or a straw hat?" Su Qianqian asked with concern, thinking that her persistent care would eventually pay off.

However, what annoyed her was that Li Linxi's occasional gaze seemed to land on Jiang Manzhu.

Suddenly, a sense of vigilance and suspicion surged within Su Qianqian. Could he already have feelings for her??

The growing sense of crisis filled her mind. If that were true, what would she do? No, absolutely not!!!

Sensing the malice emanating from Su Qianqian, Li Linxi glanced at her and said, "Su Qianqian, we are not a good match. Please stop bothering me."

Li Linxi wasn't the type to string girls along. His earlier coldness was meant to give her a graceful exit—he wasn't interested.

Unfortunately, Su Qianqian either didn't understand or chose to ignore his meaning. Li Linxi had no romantic intentions at this time.

Upon hearing Li Linxi's rejection, Su Qianqian's previously smiling face stiffened for a moment. "Linxi, we haven't spent any time together. How do you know we're not a good match?"

Su Qianqian refused to accept it. After all, they say, "A woman chasing a man is like a piece of cloth"—surely her persistence would win him over eventually?

Li Linxi suddenly thought that compared to Jiang Manzhu, Su Qianqian's inability to take a hint was even more annoying!

She was the type of person he absolutely wanted to avoid. After saying his piece, Li Linxi quickened his pace, leaving Su Qianqian stomping her feet in frustration.

"Alright, Qianqian, maybe Li Linxi is just worried about the upcoming exam," her friend tugged at Su Qianqian, feeling utterly embarrassed. She really wanted to pretend she didn't know Su Qianqian.

But what could she do? Her aunt had asked her to take good care of Su Qianqian before they left!

Su Qianqian, persuaded, reluctantly withdrew her gaze and restrained her emotions. Yes, the upcoming exam was very important.

The Li family had no income. If Li Linxi passed the exam and became a teacher, his life would become easier…

Wait a minute!

If Li Linxi became a teacher, would he lose his ambition?

She remembered that in the end, Li Linxi only had a foolish younger brother left, and later, even he was gone.

Hiss—

At this thought, Su Qianqian's gaze suddenly turned fierce. That wouldn't do! No one could block Li Linxi's path to success.

But first, she had to marry into the Li family. Otherwise, all her efforts would only benefit someone else.

Soon, they arrived at the school.

The principal hadn't left for the day yet, and the exam room was set up in the first-grade classroom since it was the weekend.

When they arrived, the principal was already waiting for them. Seeing so many people, the principal was momentarily shocked.

There were quite a few people here.

Luckily, he had anticipated this and counted the exam papers. There might not be enough, but… there were certainly some who would try to slip through the cracks.

"Come, everyone gets one paper, then line up and enter," the principal handed out slips of paper. He had foreseen this situation earlier in the morning. The papers might be enough, but he wouldn't let those who were just messing around waste them.

These papers had been printed at the commune! They cost money!

Each small slip of paper had second and third-grade arithmetic problems, like 346+104-98 or 843÷2. If someone couldn't solve these, they clearly weren't qualified!

Those who received the arithmetic questions found them relatively easy, except for division problems like 465÷5, which some struggled with for quite a while.

As they lined up to enter, the principal checked answers one by one. Upon discovering a wrong answer, he laughed, "Haha! One less to worry about!"

"Li Husheng! I knew it was you, you troublemaker. What are you doing here?" The principal remembered the notorious troublemaker of the school. "I knew you looked familiar."

Li Husheng, who had failed the middle school entrance exam two or three times, scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "I just thought I'd try my luck… who knows, I might pass this time!"

Actually, he didn't want to come, but his mother had insisted.

The principal rolled his eyes. With Li Husheng's ability? No way. "Go home and get to work! Stop wasting time."

If he couldn't even solve simple problems like these, how could anyone expect more from him?

After sending Li Husheng away, the other teachers were already seated in the classroom. The principal mentally tallied the slips of paper, which had serial numbers for easy tracking.

Fortunately, there were enough test papers.

Later, more and more young intellectuals arrived. The principal's expression changed: Oh no, the papers might not be enough! Why were so many people here? Was my arithmetic too easy?

Of course, two more young intellectuals were also disqualified!

The others, seeing the principal's dark expression, thought it was because he was unhappy with their late arrival. Those who came earlier secretly felt relieved.

The exam began.

Jiang Manzhu sat in the front row of the classroom. As Liu Jumei had mentioned, the school hadn't prepared pens or paper for them.

Having an elder at home was like having a treasure. Seeing two of the young intellectuals forget to bring pens, the principal nearly tore his hair out in frustration.

But soon, Jiang Manzhu stopped paying attention to others. The exam papers had been handed out.

It was half language arts, half math? The principal was aiming for well-rounded individuals?

Jiang Manzhu didn't quite understand the principal's intent, but she scanned the exam paper before starting to write.

Jiang Manzhu found the material not too difficult, probably thanks to her recent diligent studying. Even though she was learning from high school books, she had managed to integrate the knowledge.

Moreover, elementary school knowledge of this era wasn't as daunting as the modern-day math problems. Whether it was language arts or math, Jiang Manzhu handled them with ease.

After finishing, she habitually glanced around. That annoying familiar feeling—it was just like her student days, taking exams.

However, everyone else was still diligently writing their answers.

They didn't have as much leisure as Jiang Manzhu. She had only been busy in the morning and only needed to look after Xiaobei in the afternoon.

The young intellectuals were different. They spent both morning and afternoon working in the fields, facing the scorching sun from dawn until dusk, except during the hottest part of the day.

After a hard day's work in the fields, who had the energy to study?

Placing a book in front of them, they'd probably complain it was taking up space and shove it into a box!

Those who had only been in the countryside for less than a year still had some knowledge in their heads, but those who had been there for years struggled with some of the questions, scratching their heads in frustration.

Principal Zeng sat at the front of the classroom, watching Jiang Manzhu, Li Linxi, and a couple of others finish early. He furrowed his brow—was it because the exam was too hard?

He wasn't surprised by Li Linxi; after all, he was the pride of the school.

But Jiang Manzhu… he recognized this girl. She had come to see him just a few days ago.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have had the idea to let her take the exam. Seeing her confident expression now, he understood that she really did have some ability.

It made sense—she wouldn't have dared to recommend herself to him otherwise.

Some of the young intellectuals were not as fortunate as Li Linxi, who had family support, or who had eaten before arriving.

Many of them had worked all morning, and when the brigade leader announced the exam time, they rushed over, afraid of being late.

Some young intellectuals had stashed away snacks like meat jerky or biscuits to tide them over, but others had eaten nothing at all.

Their growling stomachs protested, not too loudly, but enough to make the embarrassed young intellectual blush and hold his stomach.

The embarrassment wasn't the problem—it was the hunger that was affecting their ability to focus. All they could think about was food.

When hunger sapped their energy, they could barely hold a pen, let alone solve difficult problems. Looking at the tough questions, all they could think was, I want to eat.

As the exam ended, many of them left the classroom with pale faces, utterly disheartened.

It's over! I couldn't answer anything!

The principal hadn't set a rule against early submission, only that the exam would last two hours and that they could leave once they finished.

Jiang Manzhu and Li Linxi, having completed their papers, handed them in and left immediately, not wanting to waste time at the school.

"Linxi, are you finished? How do you feel about it?" Jiang Manzhu was concerned about this, as it would affect her future quality of life with the Li family.

If Li Linxi had a steady income, he wouldn't be so stingy during trips to the town's supply and marketing cooperative. Jiang Manzhu had thick skin, after all! After all, they were practically family!

"It was okay. How about you?" Li Linxi, out of politeness, returned the question.

"I think it was fine. I did everything I could…" Jiang Manzhu smiled confidently, her face radiating sweetness and brightness.

Su Qianqian noticed Li Linxi had already handed in his paper. She wasn't really concerned about passing the exam and becoming a teacher—she was just using this opportunity to run into Li Linxi.

Besides, she hadn't studied in her past life for years, so how could she possibly answer the questions?

She hadn't been a good student before she was reborn either.

Seeing Li Linxi hand in his paper, she quickly followed suit and came out.

As she exited the classroom, her instinct was to glance in Li Linxi's direction. He was holding an umbrella for Jiang Manzhu, strolling through the school grounds, while Jiang Manzhu held his water bottle.

From behind, they looked so well-matched. The curve of the sun's rays reflecting off them made Su Qianqian feel a sharp pain in her heart.

Damn it!!!

Her face full of jealousy, for a moment, Su Qianqian felt a sense of retreat. But the next second, that feeling was overwhelmed by burning jealousy.

No way, Li Linxi was hers!!!

That heavy exclamation mark was enough to ignite Su Qianqian's fighting spirit. She quickly sped up her pace. "Linxi, Comrade Jiang, why did you finish so quickly? Are you heading back? Let's go together."

As she spoke, she moved to join them under the umbrella, planning to separate Jiang Manzhu and Li Linxi.

In fact, Jiang Manzhu was feeling thirsty, so after receiving the water bottle, she naturally handed the umbrella to Li Linxi.

"I'm counting on you to shield me from the sun; I don't want to get tanned," Jiang Manzhu said as she handed the umbrella to Li Linxi, her tone especially direct.

Li Linxi took the umbrella and instinctively glanced at her exposed skin, which was indeed quite fair.

Compared to him, and the people in his family and village, Jiang Manzhu was definitely much whiter.

Suddenly, Su Qianqian squeezed in. While Jiang Manzhu was tilting her head to drink, she got pushed, and water from the bottle spilled down her chin and soaked her clothes.

She coughed a few times, her fair face turning red.

"Su Qianqian! What are you doing pushing me?" Jiang Manzhu wasn't someone who would let herself be bullied easily; she turned around and glared at Su Qianqian fiercely.

Her pretty little face was puffed up in anger, resembling an adorable, fluffed-up cat with wide eyes.

Li Linxi observed Jiang Manzhu's cute but sulky demeanor and took the water bottle from her, feeling a bit awkward from the dampness.

However, the area where the water flowed was not something he wanted to look at.

As for the conflict between Jiang Manzhu and Su Qianqian, he chose not to get involved; it was a girl thing.

Besides, Jiang Manzhu didn't seem like someone who would enjoy being taken advantage of.

So, he just held the umbrella and carried the water bottle, letting them handle their own issues.

Su Qianqian didn't mean to push, but she didn't regret it either. She showed a hint of embarrassment and guilt on her face, saying, "I'm sorry, Jiang Zhiqing, it wasn't intentional."

While apologizing, she inadvertently caught sight of Li Linxi's actions, and Su Qianqian felt her suspicions growing stronger.

It was practically confirmed!

How could they do this? Don't they remember that they are a widow and her younger brother-in-law?!

Su Qianqian silently yelled in her heart but couldn't show it on her face. The only thing she could do now was to maintain a good impression in front of Li Linxi while also trying to create a rift between him and Jiang Manzhu, ultimately recommending a "particularly good" match for Jiang Manzhu.

Displaying a sense of embarrassment and guilt, Su Qianqian noticed Jiang Manzhu wiping the water off her chin and neck.

Damn it, I'm so angry, still feeling angry.

"Comrade Su Qianqian, Li Linxi has already said you two are not suitable. My mother-in-law also said you're not a good fit for our family, so why are you still bothering us?"

Jiang Manzhu actually wanted to push back, but Su Qianqian pretended to step back a few paces.

She couldn't help it; she worried that Su Qianqian was stronger, and if she fought back directly and got pushed instead, it would be embarrassing.

So, Jiang Manzhu launched a verbal attack, sarcastically telling her to back off.

To Su Qianqian, Jiang Manzhu's words sounded particularly malicious. Who was she to make decisions for the Li family?

"Jiang Zhiqing, how can you say that? Li Linxi and I grew up in the same village. I just thought it would be nice to have a companion on the way back. Besides, my relationship with Li Linxi is none of your business, right? Aren't you being too nosy?"

Su Qianqian replied, looking pitiful, her eyes glistening as she looked at Li Linxi.

Li Linxi, watching this scene, felt no sympathy at all. Instead, he thought perhaps the heat was making him feel nauseous?

As for the hidden meaning in Su Qianqian's words, it was pretty straightforward—she might as well be pointing at Jiang Manzhu's nose and accusing her of meddling in her younger brother-in-law's romantic affairs. What was she trying to do?

Jiang Manzhu sensed this, feeling uncomfortable in her wet clothes but didn't want to directly lift her clothes to dry them in front of Li Linxi. She didn't appreciate Su Qianqian's behavior at all.

She was already angry; despite Su Qianqian's quick apology, she didn't see any real remorse from her.

On the contrary, there was a hint of targeting and jealousy, almost as if it was deliberate.

"Does Comrade Su Qianqian not have ears? Didn't you hear Li Linxi's words? He rejected you, so why are you still trying to cling on?"

After speaking, Jiang Manzhu rolled her eyes at Su Qianqian. Autumn afternoons can be hot, and after just finishing the exam, getting drenched in water, who would be happy?

She directly snatched the umbrella from Li Linxi's hand and turned away, not wanting to deal with such a crazy woman.

Jiang Manzhu genuinely felt that Su Qianqian had some issues. From the beginning, she had insisted on marrying a sent-down youth, and later she spread rumors about wanting to break the engagement. No matter how the Li family rejected her, she still clung on…

Hmm???

Jiang Manzhu suddenly thought of something: why did Su Qianqian have such a bizarre change of heart? It seemed she suddenly believed that Luo Liangce, the sent-down youth, was not good enough?

Oh… wait, it seemed there were rumors in the village recently that Luo Liangce was indeed not capable… cough, cough!

Among the eligible men in the village, Li Linxi was indeed a good choice—handsome, educated, hardworking, and smart. He was truly a male lead…

Jiang Manzhu lost the thread of her thought while trying to compliment him.

Her mind began to wander. Although Su Qianqian claimed to have regretted the engagement because Luo Liangce wasn't suitable, the question arose: how did she know he wasn't good enough when they weren't even married yet?

Could it be…

Ah! Unexpectedly… Jiang Manzhu wasn't conservative or looked down on open behavior, but in this social environment, the issues regarding relationships and chastity were still quite strict. If a girl got into trouble before marriage, her future family would look down on her, and there could even be domestic violence.

So…

Jiang Manzhu seemed to have grasped some truth. She subtly scrutinized Su Qianqian before turning and walking home.

Li Linxi felt that what Jiang Manzhu just said was correct. He never intended to directly insult the girl, but Su Qianqian was just too clueless.

He didn't think Jiang Manzhu was being harsh; on the contrary, he thought it was good to be clear, to avoid being bothered repeatedly.

Unlike those boys who enjoyed being surrounded by girls, he preferred to have his own plans and wasn't considering romantic relationships for the next few years.

Left behind, Su Qianqian's face changed between green and white, Jiang Manzhu's sarcastic words echoing in her ears. It truly… made her furious.

Bitch!!

Now she realized that if she wanted to get closer to Li Linxi, she had to get rid of the stumbling block—Jiang Manzhu, that vixen!

Just a moment ago, she was politely speaking to them, but who knew Jiang Manzhu would mock her? It was definitely jealousy! Yes, jealousy for sure~

After soothing herself internally, her mood calmed a little.

Glancing at the people in the classroom, they were also starting to submit their papers. Su Qianqian thought that Luo Liangce could still be useful.

When Luo Liangce came out, his brows were tightly furrowed; today's exam questions were a bit difficult for him.

The key was that he saw Jiang Manzhu and Li Linxi submitting their papers so quickly, which made him uneasy. And Su Qianqian… why was she so quick as well? Did the principal leak the questions to the team leader?

It made sense; if the team leader could guarantee that he would be hired as a teacher, leaking questions to Su Qianqian wouldn't be a problem.

Got it!

Seeing Su Qianqian still daring to look at him, Luo Liangce felt angry. Damn it! Did she think that her publicizing that he wasn't capable in the village would let her off the hook?

Su Qianqian initially wanted to approach Luo Liangce, but seeing his fierce expression, she hesitated for a moment.

Then, filled with rage, she thought, that scoundrel still dared to hold a grudge against me? Scumbag! I'd be doing well if I didn't beat you to death.

After Jiang Manzhu left school, she didn't care about what was happening with others. Now she was tugging at her collar to wipe her neck.

She snorted a couple of times, still brooding over what had just happened.

"Linxi, there are so many women in the world, and someone as difficult and willful as Su Qianqian is really not suitable for our family. If she dares to bully people in front of you now, wouldn't she bully Xiaobei every day after marrying in?"

After snorting a couple of times, Jiang Manzhu immediately reminded Li Linxi, especially highlighting their precious younger brother, Xiaobei.

Having been in the Li family for so long, Li Linxi seemed silent regarding his brother, but his usual indulgence showed that he truly loved this brother.

"I never considered marrying her," Li Linxi replied helplessly again. Why would he think he would agree?

"That's good. Our Linxi is a resolute man. I believe you aren't the kind of person who can be easily deceived by sweet words," Jiang Manzhu nodded confidently and praised him.

Hearing that tone, it was as if she were coaxing Xiaobei. Li Linxi pursed his lips—was she treating him like a child?

Li Linxi didn't speak anymore, and Jiang Manzhu didn't mind. After all, he was just that kind of person—definitely shy! Thin-skinned…

"Linxi, are you still hungry? We didn't eat enough before we left. I think I can eat a bit more."

"Linxi, do you think we can get hired?"

"I wonder when we'll get the results. It would be great if we could find out this afternoon."

"Linxi…"

All the way, Jiang Manzhu's chatter filled the air, and Li Linxi couldn't stop her with just his eyes.

Halfway there, Li Linxi asked softly, "Aren't you thirsty?"

His words interrupted Jiang Manzhu, who looked up in surprise. So, had their male lead been influenced by this virtuous sister-in-law? Did he start to regard her as family? Was he concerned about her??

Looking at Li Linxi with gratitude and a hint of emotion in her eyes, her watery gaze was misty.

Li Linxi: … This woman's head was problematic again. He just wanted her to be quiet.

"Linxi, don't worry. I drank water earlier," Jiang Manzhu casually waved her hand, indicating that she was fine.

Li Linxi, who didn't care about Jiang Manzhu, didn't argue. He didn't bother because he knew it was useless; Jiang Manzhu only liked the attitude of "I don't want what you think, I want what I think."

Sure enough, Jiang Manzhu didn't need a response from Li Linxi. All the way, her chatter never stopped.

As she spoke, she even veered off to gossip she had heard from the pig-raising aunt.

When they returned home, Liu Jumei hadn't gone to work yet. "Mom, Xiaobei, we're back."

"Oh, you're back? Come quickly, you must be hot! Are you hungry? I saved some food for you," Liu Jumei said with a smile, not asking about their exam results, much like parents waiting for their children to return from college entrance exams.

"A little, thanks, Mom. There were so many people today, and I don't know how many teachers the principal plans to hire," Jiang Manzhu took the initiative to bring up the topic.

"So many people? Then the competition is pretty fierce," Liu Jumei wasn't surprised. Good opportunities are sought after by everyone; it would be strange if they didn't act.

"Of course! But I'm confident. Even if I don't make it, our Linxi will. Linxi is smart and capable," Jiang Manzhu was very confident. If things didn't go well, she could always wait a few more years and take the college entrance exams.

Seeing that Jiang Manzhu and Li Linxi didn't have that anxious waiting mood, Liu Jumei felt relieved and went about her own business.

"Third Brother, Sister-in-law, you're back from the exam? How was it?" Xiaobei came over, concerned, and brought two cups of water.

"With Xiaobei's blessing, of course, it went well," Jiang Manzhu patted Xiaobei's head, and he smiled happily.

Li Linxi sat there silently drinking porridge, occasionally glancing at the two before picking up some pickled vegetables to eat.

As long as the teacher hiring list wasn't out, he would have to work in the fields every day.

Others were filled with mixed feelings of anticipation and anxiety, while Luo Liangce was the only one who felt confident. He was sure he would get a spot in this hiring.

For this, his demeanor appeared somewhat boastful to others, and behind his back, they pointed at him.

What was so great about a man who wasn't capable?

Luo Liangce didn't care. You're just jealous! Although he felt somewhat uncomfortable inside, he tried hard to conceal it.

In these past few days, the atmosphere at the sent-down youth site had been subtly different.

Three days later, the scores for the teacher hiring came out, and everyone could check their scores at the school. The top three could remain as teachers.

What?!

Top three?

Weren't they supposed to hire one teacher because one was returning to the city? So shouldn't they only hire one?

No one knew how bald the principal was after grading the papers, especially when he saw the final scores. He really didn't expect that two of the teachers in his school had scores below 10 points!

In fact… one didn't get any answers correct at all!!!

Wait, is this a mistake? How did they even become teachers?

The principal thought for a moment and realized, oh, perhaps they were hired by the previous principal when there were no teachers? Maybe they were relatives?

No way! Absolutely not! No wonder his elementary school couldn't compete with the neighboring production brigade's school, ranking dead last in the commune—it was all their fault!!!

So, the principal, determined to eliminate this humiliating ranking, decided to pass on hiring those two teachers.

The villagers didn't know the details behind the scenes; they just knew the quota had been announced and hurried to check the results as soon as they finished work.

Letting someone else check? No way! I want to keep an eye on it myself.

First place: Li Linxi, 99 points.

Second place: Jiang Manzhu, 95 points.

Third place: Wang Dongling, 86 points.

"What? What about me?!" The most unacceptable reaction came from Luo Liangce, who immediately shouted in frustration. He had sacrificed so much—wasn't it agreed that he would become a teacher?