Chapter 1983: The Zhao Family Arrived

In the villages and neighboring areas, numerous individuals cultivated herb and flower fields. The initial segment of the Shao Family purchased these crops based on their quality, processing and selling the flowers after handling the herbs.

Due to the extensive business of the Shao Family, they needed to employ workers year-round for tasks such as soil cultivation, weeding, harvesting, and other responsibilities.

Whenever they ventured outdoors, Qiao Xuan would bring Anan along. With the warming weather and Anan’s agility, she could easily accompany them.

The youngster reveled in the outings, displaying boundless joy and curiosity.

Near the pond in the Zhang Family village, they encountered a school of fish swimming gracefully. Their excitement almost led to an accidental plunge into the water, startling their caregiver and companions.

Qiao Xuan reminisced about the flavors of spring bamboo shoots, wild greens, mushrooms, and other delicacies. Joining Taotao, Yang Xiaoni, and Shao Sanlang, she ventured into the mountains for hunting expeditions. Despite Qi’s absence, Sun Bai and the others’ archery prowess was evident. Coupled with Qiao Xuan’s remarkable abilities, they successfully hunted abundant prey.

Fresh wild mutton, venison, pheasant, and wild rabbit, whether stir-fried, stewed, or barbecued, remained delightfully flavorful.

Following that, their schedule became increasingly hectic. Taotao’s marriage into the Zhao Family demanded utmost attention.

By the end of February, Zhao Shu rendezvoused with his relatives on their journey. More than 20 individuals, encompassing cousins, uncles, aunts, nephews, and servants, eventually reached Heshan County.

Accommodating such a large group in Zhao Shu’s courtyard proved impractical. Consequently, only a select few elders were invited to stay, while accommodations were arranged at the county inn for the rest.

What irked Zhao Shu the most was the unexpected arrival of his half-brothers, Zhao Di and Zhao Ye.

Upon sighting them, Zhao Shu’s expression darkened noticeably.

Zhao Ye remained composed, concealing his emotions in Zhao Shu’s presence. However, when Zhao Di observed Zhao Shu’s evident fury, he couldn’t resist mocking him sarcastically. Zhao Shu, refusing to tolerate the disrespect, promptly considered dismissing him.

It was ludicrous how Zhao Di, in his rage, attempted to assume the role of an elder brother, brazenly admonishing Zhao Shu.

Before Zhao Di could conclude his reprimand, Zhao Shu impatiently interjected, ridiculing him, “Cousin, how audacious of you! Do you even possess the right to speak of my father? My father? Ha, it’s common knowledge that he passed away long ago. Am I to blame for being unfilial and failing him?”

Zhao Di’s embarrassment was palpable, his complexion fluctuating between green and white.

Seeing Zhao Shu’s envy, Zhao Di felt compelled to lecture him, momentarily forgetting that Zhao Shu was adopted and no longer under their father’s authority.

After all, wasn’t he just an ordinary cousin to Zhao Shu?

Zhao Shu sneered, “Cousin, if you’re here to stir up trouble, then kindly leave! I’m getting married, not inviting chaos into my life for your amusement.”

Attempting to defuse the tension, Zhao Di intervened, “Zhao Shu! Is this how you treat your family just because you have some wealth? If you disdain us, just say it outright. We won’t stay where we’re not wanted!”

In response, Zhao Shu spat at him in disdain, “I’m talking to you, not to them. Why drag others into this? Perhaps I was mistaken in calling you shameless. How can you be shameless when you’re simply devoid of decency? I treat my family with far more respect than you ever have! Have you ever looked out for our family’s interests? Ha!”

“I’ll be frank with you–I simply don’t care for you. If you dare to cause trouble again, don’t expect me to hold back! This has been a trying time for everyone involved. I, Zhao Shu, will undoubtedly repay those who have supported me generously, but you’ve done nothing of the sort! Who gave you the right to disrupt things?”