Chapter 71 - Chapter 71: Chapter 071: Getting Into Trouble (1/2)

Chapter 71: Chapter 071: Getting Into Trouble

Translator: 549690339

“This is ultimately a matter between your two families, it wouldn’t be right for me to get too involved,” Zhuang Jingye contemplated for a moment before declining, “A simple apology should suffice.”

In this way, no matter what, it was Zhuang Ruman’s affair alone, no one could argue that his role as the village chief was in any way improper.

“Uncle, you’re aware that because of Mrs. Song’s foolish actions, Miss Zhuang Qingning and Miss Qingsui have started to see me in a negative light, even bearing resentment towards me.”

Zhuang Ruman said, “After the scuffle earlier, they now likely despise the sight of me even more. If I were to go there now, they would surely chase me out before I have a chance to apologize and instead, I would get a tongue-lashing. All things considered, it is not a good situation.”

“Uncle, if you could mediate, I am sure Miss Zhuang Qingning will respect you and calmly exchange a few words with me. If our two families could live in harmony without squabbles, wouldn’t that bring some peace to the village and give you peace of mind?”

He continued, “Earlier, when my son Yuanren returned home, he had mentioned his wish to invite you over, but there was simply not enough time. Once Yuanren finishes his exams and returns home, we will ensure that he pays you a visit to share the good news and we ask that you kindly enjoy a cup at our place.”

The last few sentences were subtly aimed at pleasing Zhuang Jingye and fostering a closer relationship.

Although Zhuang Yuanren might not necessarily succeed in the exams, he was, after all, a studious young man with chances of success. It would not be a bad thing to establish good relations early, especially if Zhuang Yuanren were to become successful and qualify as a student or even an imperial scholar in the future.

One must always leave open multiple paths in life, so the road can widen and not lead into a dead end.

Zhuang Jingye thought it over and then nodded, “Alright, for Yuanren’s sake, let’s make this visit.”

“Thank you, Uncle.” Seeing Zhuang Jingye agree Zhuang Ruman gave a beaming smile and then asked him to wait for a moment before going into the house to get some eggs.

He picked out around ten eggs, put them in a small bamboo basket, and lined the basket with soft wheat straw to prevent the eggs from breaking.

“What are you doing?” Mrs. Song saw him gathering eggs and desperately asked. “These are fresh eggs, laid by our hens over the last couple of days. Weren’t you planning on saving them to sell in town so we have money set aside for Yuanren?”

It is worth mentioning that in order to preserve the eggs for selling, Zhuang Ruman had been counting them over and over again, afraid that they might be secretly eaten.

“Why do you meddle in everything? Finish making the meal.” Zhuang Ruman didn’t bother answering Mrs. Song, simply loaded the eggs into the small bamboo basket and then left with Zhuang Jingye.

“Ah.. “, Mrs. Song, startled by yet another confrontation, was about to speak

out, but fearing she might get scolded, she shut her mouth and hung her head, going back into the kitchen to continue cooking and calling Zhuang Qinghe to prepare the fire.

“Mom, I heard dad’s planning to go to Zhuang Qingning’s house,” Zhuang Yuanzhong snuck into the kitchen, blinking his eyes, he said, “From what dad said, it sounds like he plans to send the eggs there as a peace offering.”

“What?”

Zhuang Qinghe, who was kindling the fire, suddenly screamed, “Why should we give eggs to that wretched girl? Why is it fair?”

“She shuts everyone out and eats all the good food, ignoring us completely. Even if we beat that wretched girl to death, it wouldn’t be too much and we’re actually going to give her eggs? Has dad lost his mind?”

Mrs. Song too was too upset to stem her tears.

Even if she failed to reclaim any belongings, even if Zhuang Qingning had chased her halfway across the village – and yes, it was quite embarrassing – but wasn’t she doing all of this for the sake of the family? Zhuang Ruman not only failed to stand up for her but was also planning on apologizing?

Wouldn’t that only make Zhuang Qingning look down on her even more?