The Scumbag Ex-Wife of the Heroine in the Old Abusive Article - Chapter 22

Wen Jin’an suddenly found herself eagerly anticipating what was to come…

That evening, Qin Yang followed her usual routine of dining with the Qin Family. Since Qin Cheng and Qin Luo had only managed to gather a meager handful of wild vegetables that day, the pot of vegetable soup contained little more than a few floating leaves. Qin Youcai wore a dark expression, and the others dared not cause any trouble, resulting in a relatively peaceful meal.

After dinner, Qin Yang returned to her room, lit the pine oil lamp, and the air immediately filled with its characteristic scent.

She handed Wen Jin’an a steamed bun, stood before the bed, rubbed her hands together, and asked tentatively, “I have something I’d like to discuss with you.”

Wen Jin’an startled, looked up at her, and frowned slightly. Unsure of what Qin Yang wanted to say, she felt a vague unease at the woman’s unusually serious demeanor.

After a long pause, she lowered her gaze, bit her lip, and said in a flat tone, “What does Wife-Husband wish to say?”

The pine oil lamp flickered, casting its glow across Wen Jin’an’s delicate Kunze features. Qin Yang sat on the edge of the bed and leaned closer. “I want to move us out of the Qin Family. What do you think?”

Move out of the Qin Family?

Wen Jin’an’s heart tightened. She raised her head in surprise, scrutinizing Qin Yang. Why would she suddenly want to move out?

Was this another scheme?

Wen Jin’an slowly curled her fingers into fists. After a moment’s hesitation, she probed, “Wife-Husband, why would you even consider such a thing? Our parents would never agree to it. Besides, how can we divide the family while they’re still alive?”

Qin Yang blinked. “That’s true, but they’ve gone too far. I was wrong before, but I won’t let them bully you anymore.” She grabbed Wen Jin’an’s sleeve, her voice earnest. “Don’t worry, I’ll earn enough to support us both. You won’t have to go hungry with me.”

She couldn’t care less about the family’s traditions. If they didn’t separate soon, her own life might be forfeit.

Besides, she wasn’t the original host. The Qin Family meant nothing to her. Staying would mean they’d be tormenting her—her own life—not the Female Lead.

Wen Jin’an gently withdrew her sleeve, a flicker of disdain crossing her eyes. “What’s your plan, Wife-Husband?” she asked coolly.

Qin Yang pondered briefly. “I plan to take you to town… no, the county seat in the next few days to inquire about housing.”

To avoid the Qin Family finding them, the county seat was the safest option. Once they had saved enough money, she would send the Female Lead to the Capital and then find a place to settle down herself, allowing her to focus on her own career.

Take her out?

Wen Jin’an’s eyes darkened. Her body had mostly recovered; perhaps she could use this trip as an opportunity to escape.

Wen Jin’an tightened her grip on the steamed bun and murmured, “Wife-Husband’s arrangements are fine. Jin’an will follow Wife-Husband’s lead.”

This person’s money was still in her possession. Even if she ran away, she wouldn’t starve. She could find another way to support herself. The only problem was that their marriage had been registered with the government. If Qin Yang refused to let her go, she might have to live in hiding for the rest of her life. But that didn’t matter. She could flee far away, leave the county seat, and start anew.

Just thinking about the torment she had endured at the Qin Family’s hands for the past two months, Wen Jin’an couldn’t conceal the hatred burning in her eyes, especially toward Qin Yang…

She wanted nothing more than to kill her.

“Since you don’t object, it’s settled. I have some urgent matters to attend to. Go to sleep and don’t wait up.” With these instructions, Qin Yang let out a sigh of relief.

What urgent business could possibly require her to go out this late?

Wen Jin’an didn’t believe her excuse for a moment. Could she really not keep up the act for even two days?

So impatient already? Qin Yang had often gone out at night to drink and gamble with her disreputable friends. The only saving grace was her arrogance; she considered herself above marking Kunze due to her superior pheromone grade.

At least she’s not completely depraved.

Wen Jin’an’s eyes darkened as she recalled Qin Yang marking her.

“I’ll be back soon,” Qin Yang assured her.

To ensure her Space could store Jinchán, Qin Yang decided to capture some herself for confirmation. She didn’t want to end up with a bad deal.

Wen Jin’an cast her a cold glance and turned away. “Wife-Husband doesn’t need to explain to Jin’an.”

Despite her words, Qin Yang immediately understood: she had promised to spend the day with Wen Jin’an, but now she was leaving. The Female Lead was angry.

Qin Yang hesitated, then cautiously tugged at Wen Jin’an’s sleeve. “I’ll only be gone for a short while. If you’re worried, you can come with me.”

With her?

Wen Jin’an froze, staring at Qin Yang in disbelief. She wants me to go out and carouse with her? Doesn’t she know how vile those people are? A bitter ache spread through his heart.

Of course. She only married me to make me work for her. Why would she care about my well-being?

Just because she’s softened her attitude slightly, how could I forget what kind of person she truly is?

“Does Wife-Husband truly want me to come?” Wen Jin’an asked, his gaze fixed on her eyes.

Qin Yang blinked. Just a stroll around the village shouldn’t be a problem. Besides, even healthy people get sick from lying in bed all day. Some light exercise would actually be good for her.

“Yes, a walk would be good for your health,” Qin Yang said sincerely.

Wen Jin’an lowered his gaze, his voice turning cold. “I fear I’ll disappoint Wife-Husband. Jin’an’s body might not be up to it…”

“Still not feeling well?” Qin Yang felt a pang of disappointment, but quickly adjusted her attitude. The Female Lead’s health was paramount; the physician had prescribed bed rest. It was her own oversight, focusing solely on her own desires and neglecting the fact that the Female Lead was still in her Rainfall Period.

Damn it.

“It’s alright. You rest well. I’ll just step out for a bit and be back soon to keep you company,” Qin Yang assured her.

“Go ahead,” Wen Jin’an replied, utterly unconvinced by her empty words.

“Then I’ll be off.” Qin Yang glanced at Wen Jin’an before turning to leave.

This was her first time catching Jinchán. She had only heard about them before. During the day, she had specifically checked the tree by the gate and confirmed the presence of shed Jinchán shells on its trunk, indicating that these trees throughout the village harbored them. She could simply catch them within the village itself.

Qin Yang found the bamboo fish basket Qin Zhao had used earlier to carry fish. The basket was wide-bellied with a narrow opening and a lid, ensuring the Jinchán wouldn’t escape once inside.

The night was dimly lit. In ancient times, without modern lighting, the only sources of illumination were candles and pine oil lamps. Both pine oil and candles were purchased at a cost, so people used them sparingly. As darkness fell, every household closed its doors, and few ventured out.

Qin Yang’s excellent Qianyuan vision allowed her to see clearly even by moonlight.

Based on her observations during the day, she expected to find plenty. Sure enough, she quickly caught seven or eight Jinchán clinging to tree trunks. In the village, every household planted one or two large trees near their doors for shade. As she walked around, Qin Yang soon filled half her fish basket with Jinchán.

Still thinking about Wen Jin’an and satisfied with her harvest, Qin Yang stored the fish basket in her Space. Back at the Qin Family home, she rushed to the kitchen, retrieved some Jinchán from her Space, cleaned them thoroughly, and heated oil in a wok. She poured the Jinchán into the hot oil, and within moments, their fragrant aroma filled the entire kitchen.

When the Jinchán were fried to a golden-brown crisp, she scooped them into a bowl.

She set aside some to give to Qin Zhao, leaving the rest for Wen Jin’an.

Jinchán are exceptionally high in protein, making them ideal for nourishing Wen Jin’an’s recovery.

After delivering the portion to Qin Zhao, Qin Yang returned to her room.

Wen Jin’an’s expression flickered with surprise as Qin Yang entered. Her gaze fell on the bowl in Qin Yang’s hands, and her delicate brows furrowed. She…

“I caught these in the village just now,” Qin Yang said, a hint of pride in her voice as she pressed the bowl into Wen Jin’an’s arms. “They’re very nutritious. You should try them right away.”

“Did you catch all of these?” Wen Jin’an asked, snapping out of her daze and staring at the golden-fried Jinchán in the bowl.

So, she had misunderstood Qin Yang earlier. Qin Yang had actually gone out to catch Jinchán.

Wen Jin’an lowered her head to look at the bowl in her arms, her emotions a tangled mess, but she quickly suppressed the turmoil.

Regardless, this person remained untrustworthy.

“Eat quickly,” Qin Yang urged with a smile. “They won’t taste as good when they’re cold.”

Wen Jin’an nodded.

Qin Yang bolted the door and lay back down. Though she had spent the day accompanying the Female Lead, Wen Jin’an had remained silent on the bed. With no other entertainment available in this ancient era, Qin Yang had been forced to lie on the straw and sleep all day.

Now, however, she couldn’t sleep.

She decided to mentally replay the entire plot from beginning to end. According to the original storyline, the Female Lead should have been rescued by the Destined Alpha around this time. He would then accidentally discover the jade pendant that revealed her true identity, bring her back to the Capital, and after she regained her status, she would begin her revenge against the Original Host’s family.

But her arrival had disrupted everything. By preventing the Female Lead from meeting the Destined Alpha, she might have altered the course of their romantic relationship.

Would these changes affect other plot points?

For example, the imperial court’s decisions?

Upon reflection, Qin Yang realized she could easily exploit her knowledge to amass wealth. With her abilities, becoming the wealthiest person in the Dongling Kingdom should be no problem.

The next day, as dawn broke, Qin Yang and Qin Zhao ventured up the mountain to check the traps they had set the previous day.

“Here’s the fish from yesterday. Take a look,” Qin Yang said, retrieving the fish from her Space and handing them to Qin Zhao.

The two small fish shimmered translucently in the sunlight, appearing as fresh as when they had died. Qin Zhao couldn’t help but be secretly astonished. He had initially dismissed her claims as mere boasting, but now…

What method did she use?

Suppressing his curiosity, Qin Zhao asked calmly, “How do you plan to divide the profits?”

“It’s simple,” Qin Yang replied immediately. “We’ll form a partnership. You invest some money, I invest some money, and we’ll split the profits proportionally.”

Qin Zhao didn’t quite grasp her explanation. “How much do you want me to contribute?” he asked bluntly.

Huh?

Qin Yang snapped back to attention. She had expected to have to argue her case, but Qin Zhao’s directness caught her off guard.

She only had two taels of silver on her. Although Qin Zhao often hunted, the Qin Family was so poor that she had little understanding of local market prices. She had no idea how much money Qin Zhao could afford to invest.

Tentatively, she spread her hands wide. “Ten taels.”

Ten taels, plus her own two taels as seed money, shouldn’t be too much, right?

Ten taels?

Qin Zhao’s lips twitched. He hadn’t expected her to be so audacious. He steadied his composure.

Did she even realize what ten taels of silver meant? The Qin Family’s annual expenses might not even reach that amount.

Qin Zhao pressed his lips together.

If he gave it to her…

Qin Yang’s past behavior had been truly reprehensible. Qin Zhao stared at her without a word, his gaze unwavering. Giving her the money would leave him with very little left.

After a long moment of contemplation, Qin Zhao closed his eyes briefly. “Are you absolutely certain about this?”

“Of course!” Qin Yang quickly retrieved the Jinchán she had caught the previous night from her Space. “See? I caught these last night.”

Not only were they still alive, but they hadn’t even shed their shells.

This…

Normally, Jinchán would have either shed their shells or died overnight. Even if they survived, they’d be barely clinging to life.

Yet here were over a dozen of them, all alive and remarkably vigorous.

If she hadn’t given him a bowl of fried Jinchán last night, he might have suspected she had just caught them.

Qin Zhao’s eyes widened. The fish incident had already astonished her, and now these Jinchán? What secrets was she hiding?

First, she had reformed her character, and now she possessed such extraordinary abilities. Could she have truly stumbled upon some kind of fortuitous encounter?

Still, it was a good thing. At least she was getting better.

Qin Zhao wasn’t one to pry into others’ secrets. If it was her sister’s ability, she would share it when she was ready. So he didn’t press further.

“The town’s restaurants buy unshelled Jinchán for ten coins per ten, and shelled ones for about fifteen per coin. How do you plan to price them?” Qin Zhao asked.

“We should match their prices. After all, we don’t have a big budget. Unshelled ones would be best. If we’re buying those, we’ll have to go out at night. If we stay home all the time, they’ll get suspicious. Have you considered moving out?” Qin Yang asked, returning the Jinchán to her Space now that she had Qin Zhao’s trust.

Moving out of the Qin Family?

Qin Zhao’s lips twitched. As long as their parents were alive and the family remained undivided, Qin Youcai would never allow them to move out, especially since they were both Qianyuan.

“We only have about half a month left to collect Jinchán. Once autumn arrives, they’ll no longer be edible,” Qin Zhao said.

The implication was clear: Qin Zhao had no intention of leaving the Qin Family.

Qin Yang felt a pang of anxiety. She had hoped Qin Zhao would move out with her. When she had gone to buy spices earlier, she had considered making a trip to the Northern Region herself. With rumors of a harsh winter spreading, people in this era, being more superstitious, would likely stockpile food, charcoal, and other winter supplies. If they seized the opportunity, they could make a fortune.

The money from selling the Jinchán would serve as her starting capital.

With her Space, she could avoid the cost of hiring guards for transport and eliminate the risk of being robbed on the road.

On the return trip, she could import spices and seasonings from the other side to sell here. After all, a single tael of pepper cost seven thousand coins—not because pepper itself was expensive, but because the Dongling Kingdom lacked pepper plants and trade between the two nations was scarce, making it a rare and highly valued commodity.

With her Space, she could import massive quantities, potentially even monopolizing the market.

Going alone wasn’t impossible, but having Qin Zhao, another Qianyuan, along would provide mutual support and make the journey much safer.

“Are you content to be the Qin Family’s workhorse?” Qin Yang asked, meeting Qin Zhao’s cold gaze. “Their entire household is lazy and gluttonous. Even if you work yourself to death supporting them, will they ever appreciate you?”

Appreciate me?

No, they won’t.

Qin Zhao sighed softly, pulling the trapped prey from the snare. Its fur was snow-white, its ears small and delicate.

What’s this?

Qin Yang’s attention was immediately drawn to it. A White Raccoon Dog!

Qin Yang never expected to find such a creature in these mountains. She took the small animal, about the size of an adult rabbit, and held it by the scruff of its neck. Its tiny legs kicked wildly.

It was utterly adorable.

“I can’t believe there’s a white raccoon dog here, especially a cub! Can I keep it?” Qin Yang was completely charmed. She knew Wen Jin’an would adore this precious creature.

“You like it?” Qin Zhao frowned slightly.

Qin Yang nodded, stroking the raccoon dog’s head. “Jin’an will love it. I’m going to take it home as a gift for her.”

Qin Zhao: “……”

Already excited, Qin Yang placed the little creature in a bamboo basket and covered it with branches.

Watching her movements, Qin Zhao suddenly felt a pang of regret. What’s happening to me?

He continued checking the traps.

“If you don’t leave the Qin Family, I advise you not to seek out a Kunze in the future,” Qin Yang said, squatting behind him, her eyes fixed on the trap. “Otherwise, they’ll suffer alongside you when they marry into the family. Don’t dismiss this—look at Jin’an. Ever since she married in, she’s been doing all the household chores. And even that’s not enough. Liu… Mother still beats and scolds her every day.”

Qin Zhao turned to look at her, his expression odd, as if to say, Didn’t you agree to this?

“…No, I mean it,” Qin Yang insisted, sighing softly. What is going on?

Qin Zhao remained silent, the frail figure of Miao Zhiru flashing inexplicably through his mind. What am I thinking? I only met her once yesterday, and now I’m already…

He shook his head, nearly letting Qin Yang lead him astray. Still, what she said wasn’t entirely without merit.

“I’ll consider what you’ve said.”

Hearing Qin Zhao say he would consider it, Qin Yang breathed a small sigh of relief.

After checking the traps, they went to the cave. Qin Zhao cleaned the day’s catch and hung it to dry inside, then took two rabbits from the stone wall and placed them in a bamboo basket before returning to the village.

As they reached the foot of the mountain, Qin Zhao suddenly stopped. “You go on ahead. I have something else to take care of.” Without waiting for Qin Yang’s reaction, he turned and walked in the opposite direction.

What could be so urgent that he can’t even tell me?

Watching his retreating figure, Qin Yang pressed her lips into a thin line.

Never mind, Qin Yang thought. The Female Lead is waiting for her at home. Qin Zhao isn’t a child; he won’t get lost.

Shaking her head, Qin Yang hurried back to the Qin Family residence. She dropped her bamboo basket and eagerly carried the little creature to Wen Jin’an.

“Jin’an, look what I caught! Isn’t it adorable?” Qin Yang held it up like a prized treasure.

“This is…” Wen Jin’an’s heart leaped with joy. She reached out, then suddenly caught herself, slowly curling her fingers back. “Wife-Husband, where did you find this puppy? It’s so unique, completely snow-white.”

“…It’s not a dog,” Qin Yang pouted. Why isn’t this going as planned? Don’t girls usually love fluffy things? Just like her—back in her original world, she had two Ragdoll cats at home. She wondered how they were doing these past few days since she’d transmigrated.

The thought made her nose sting with longing.

“If it’s not a dog, then what is it?” Wen Jin’an asked, her heart tightening as she saw Qin Yang’s crestfallen expression and teary eyes.

She’s getting better at this act, Wen Jin’an thought.

Qin Yang sniffled, wiping the corner of her eye with her sleeve. My assistant should handle those matters, she thought. Now that I’ve transmigrated, I shouldn’t dwell on such things.

“This is a White Raccoon Dog, also a member of the canine family,” Qin Yang said. Realizing Wen Jin’an might not know what “canine family” meant, she added, “You can call it a dog if you like. They’re related, after all.”

Wen Jin’an: “……”

“Try holding it. It’s still young and won’t bite,” Qin Yang said, grabbing the little creature by its front paws and dangling it in front of Wen Jin’an. But Wen Jin’an didn’t reach out to take it.

Qin Yang blinked, still holding the pup.

Many people don’t like pets. Could the Female Lead be one of them?

Did I just try to butter her up and end up kicking her in the shins?

She had hoped to earn the Female Lead’s favor, but instead…

Qin Yang pressed her lips together and silently withdrew her hand, cradling the White Raccoon Dog in her arms. The pup was still young, its soft fur warm and comforting.

If the Female Lead doesn’t like it, I can’t keep it in the house.

But Qin Yang loved it too much. Torn, she finally gritted her teeth and declared, “I’ll take it to Qin Zhao’s room to raise.”

Hearing that she wanted to give it away, Wen Jin’an tightened her grip on her fingers and said calmly, “If Wife-Husband wants to keep it, just keep it in the house. Sending it to someone else’s room might disturb Second Sister.”

“Really?” Qin Yang’s eyes lit up. “Then I’ll go get some more straw and make it a nest.”

Wen Jin’an nodded and took the little creature from Qin Yang’s hands.

The little thing wasn’t afraid of people and rubbed its furry head against Wen Jin’an’s hand.

Just as Qin Yang stepped out of the house, Qin Zhao returned with a bamboo basket on his back.

Qin Zhao set the basket down, and Little Fatty, who had been playing in the mud by the wall, immediately ran over to rummage through it. He finally looked up, his face full of disappointment, and said, “Second Aunt, why didn’t you catch anything? You’re so useless.”

His tone was as harsh as Liu Yue’e’s and Zhao Chunhua’s.

Qin Yang ignored him, her gaze fixed on Qin Zhao with growing surprise.

Meat was a rare treat for ordinary families, only eaten during the New Year. Yet Qin Zhao had brought back two whole animals in one trip!

This made her suspicious.

“The game has been scarce in the mountains lately,” Qin Zhao said to Little Fatty, avoiding Qin Yang’s gaze as he scooped a basin of water from the jar to wash his hands.

Liu Yue’e emerged from the house and glanced at Qin Yang. “Missed again? I told you, those mountain creatures aren’t easy to hunt. Even seasoned hunters struggle to bag them. You never listen. The Second Elder’s water tank is empty. Go fetch some water later to cook with.”

With that, she turned to the kitchen and retrieved a basin filled with chopped wild vegetables.

Ever since losing a chicken, Liu Yue’e had locked the remaining one in the backyard. Now, she carried the basin outside to feed it.

“Are you really going to fetch water?” Qin Yang asked Qin Zhao, watching him pour the handwashing water at the base of the wall.

“We have the cart. I’ll bring back a full load,” Qin Zhao replied. “It won’t take long. Wait for me here.”

Is this really about time? Qin Yang wondered, sometimes wanting to pry open her cousin’s head to see what was inside. The entire Qin Family was home, yet no one else offered to fetch water—only Qin Zhao.

What infuriated her most was Qin Zhao’s complete silence.

“Go where? Is there no one else at home? You’re a hunter, not a water carrier. If you don’t fetch water, we’ll all starve!” With that, Qin Yang dragged Qin Zhao into the house, ignoring his protests.

“We’re all family,” Qin Zhao tried to explain, but Qin Yang cut him off. “Do they treat you like family?”

Qin Zhao fell silent, turned, and walked to the bed. He pulled a pouch from under the pillow and sighed. “Let’s go.”

Seeing that he had no intention of fetching water for the Qin Family, Qin Yang felt a slight relief.

Their priority now was to visit the disaster-stricken villages to collect Jinchán and earn money.

Qin Yang returned to Wen Jin’an to give her a few more instructions, and then the two women left the Qin Family.

The disaster-stricken villages weren’t far; taking a shortcut, they arrived in less than an hour.

As Qin Yang and Qin Zhao entered the village, they ran into the old man who had herded the cattle last time. The old man recognized them and greeted them warmly.

Since this was their first visit and there was no need to hide their purpose, Qin Yang explained their mission to collect Jinchán. The old man readily agreed to help.

“My house isn’t far. Come in and have some water while my old woman goes out to ask around. This is good news!” The old man beamed, inviting them into his home. He called for his wife, explained the situation, and then went out himself.

Qin Yang and Qin Zhao stayed behind, chatting with the old man.

They learned that the family’s surname was Zhang. After the disaster, both sons had gone to work in town, leaving only the old man, his wife, and their two daughters-in-law at home.

Before long, the old woman returned.

“Sit tight, dears. Quite a few people are going out to collect them. Oh, you old man, I’ll have the daughters-in-law prepare dinner for our guests. You’ll stay and eat with us tonight!” Granny Zhang’s face was wreathed in smiles.

“No need, we brought our own rations,” Qin Yang quickly stood up to stop her.

“How could we?” Granny Zhang glanced at her husband, waiting for his cue.

The old man rose to his feet. “We don’t have much to offer—just some wild vegetables the daughters-in-law and my wife foraged in the mountains. Please don’t mind the humble fare.”

Hearing this, Qin Yang couldn’t refuse any longer and agreed.

After dinner at the Zhang family’s home, Qin Yang and Qin Zhao headed to the village entrance. As dusk settled, villagers began to emerge—mostly women, children, and the elderly.

Qin Yang and Qin Zhao found a rock to sit on. Before long, several children approached with the Jinchán they had collected. After counting, there were exactly ten. Qin Yang paid them one copper coin and placed the Jinchán in her fish basket, planning to transfer them to her Space later.

With so many eyes watching, she didn’t want to be mistaken for a demon.

Seeing her actually pay, more people brought out their collected Jinchán, and Qin Yang paid them all.

It wasn’t until the moon hung high in the sky that Qin Yang and Qin Zhao finally left with their fish basket.

“We spent a total of 123 copper coins and collected 1,230 Jinchán. Today was a good day, but we can’t guarantee it will always be like this. We should visit the surrounding villages to spread the word and collect even more,” Qin Yang said.

“Mm,” Qin Zhao replied.

As they spoke, the two quickly returned to the Qin Family residence.

“You go in first,” Qin Yang said.

Qin Zhao nodded, glanced at Qin Yang, and stepped into the courtyard.

She had no habit of prying into others’ secrets. If Qin Yang didn’t want anyone to know, she would simply pretend not to notice.

Once Qin Zhao was out of sight, Qin Yang transferred the Jinchán to her Space. When she returned to her room, she was startled to find Wen Jin’an missing.

Has the Female Lead run away?

This is disastrous!

This is practically signing my own death warrant!

Qin Yang rushed out of her room and knocked urgently on Liu Yue’e’s door.

Liu Yue’e opened the door, draped in a robe. Her face darkened immediately upon seeing Qin Yang. “What’s with all the knocking? What do you want at this hour?” she snapped.

Qin Yang had no patience for her nonsense. “Where’s Jin’an? Have you seen her?”

Liu Yue’e tugged at her robe and cursed, “That damned girl still isn’t back? I only sent her to fetch water, and she’s been gone for hours!”

Fetch water?

What did she just say?

She sent the Female Lead to fetch water?

Qin Yang was furious. How could she be stuck with such incompetent allies? She was desperately trying to change the plot, while they were practically begging for death.

Without another thought, Qin Yang raced toward the riverbank.

“Why are you running like you’re rushing to be reborn?” Liu Yue’e muttered.

That Wen Jin’an really is a fox spirit.

The night air in the village buzzed with the chirping of insects. Under the moonlight, Qin Yang’s Qianyuan-enhanced vision quickly located Wen Jin’an by the river.

Wen Jin’an was struggling to draw water from the river, her frail figure appearing as if a gentle breeze could topple her into the water.

Qin Yang’s heart leaped into her throat. She rushed forward and snatched the wooden bucket from Wen Jin’an’s hands.

“Didn’t I tell you to stay in bed and not go anywhere?”

“Ouch!” Wen Jin’an winced as pain shot through her palm. She looked up to see Qin Yang glaring at her, eyes red with anger.

“What happened to your hand?” Qin Yang quickly set down the bucket and grabbed Wen Jin’an’s hand. The delicate palm was crimson, and three glaring blisters had already formed.

Qin Yang gasped.

I only looked away for a moment, and the Female Lead already got hurt! At this rate, I might not even have a chance to save her!

“Does it hurt a lot? Let’s go back and I’ll pop the blisters. That should help.” Without another word, Qin Yang bent down and scooped Wen Jin’an into her arms, ignoring the bucket.

?!

“Just bear with it for a moment. We’ll be back soon,” Qin Yang said, carrying Wen Jin’an away at a brisk pace.

Qianyuan possessed naturally superior strength, and Wen Jin’an was petite and malnourished, with barely any flesh on her bones. Even running, Qin Yang felt no strain.

Cradled in Qin Yang’s arms, Wen Jin’an, who had just emerged from her Rainfall Period, was enveloped in the faint, sweet scent of Peach Wine emanating from the Qianyuan. The glands at the back of her neck began to throb faintly.

Wen Jin’an’s body went limp, her head lolling against Qin Yang’s shoulder, the scent of Peach Wine intensifying in her nostrils.

Qin Yang carried Wen Jin’an back to her room in one breath, gently laid her on the bed, and exhaled heavily.

“I’ll go find a needle. Wait here,” she said, turning to rummage through the room. Surprisingly, the original host’s room didn’t even have a single needle. Where did she get the patches for her clothes?

Wen Jin’an leaned against the bed frame. The lingering scent of Peach Wine had dissipated, and her mind cleared. She watched Qin Yang rummage through the room, her brow furrowing slightly.

“The wooden buckets…” Wen Jin’an ventured.

“You’re in this state, why worry about those?” Qin Yang replied, continuing her search.

She…

Wen Jin’an lowered her gaze. The two wooden buckets weren’t cheap, and the Qin Family only had two. Under normal circumstances, this person would never abandon the buckets for her sake.

What is Qin Yang really planning?

“Found it!” Qin Yang exclaimed excitedly, sitting down beside Wen Jin’an with the needle in hand. She took Wen Jin’an’s hand, her expression filled with concern, her movements careful and deliberate.

“Does it hurt?” Qin Yang asked, piercing one of the blisters and looking up at Wen Jin’an.

Wen Jin’an shook her head, momentarily stunned by the tenderness in Qin Yang’s eyes.

She used to get blisters on her hands all the time from work; this was nothing. It was the first time anyone had ever asked if it hurt. In the past, she might have been touched and grown dependent on such a person. Now, she was merely curious about what had caused this drastic change in Qin Yang.

“We don’t have any medicine at home. Just keep it dry, and it’ll heal in a couple of days,” Qin Yang said, blowing gently on Wen Jin’an’s hand with concern.

The warm, ticklish breath burrowed into her palm like a feather. Wen Jin’an instinctively pulled her hand back, but Qin Yang caught it. “Don’t move. There are still two more to drain.”

“Wife-Husband, Mother took White Raccoon Dog away,” Wen Jin’an said, lowering her gaze in self-reproach. “I’m useless. I couldn’t stop her.”

This person must also love that dog, Wen Jin’an thought. What would she do if she knew Liu Yue’e had stolen it?

Suddenly, Wen Jin’an found herself eagerly anticipating the answer.

“What?” Qin Yang looked up, her gaze sweeping the room. Sure enough, the little creature was gone.

That Liu Yue’e even steals gifts I gave to the Female Lead.

Qin Yang remained silent, her face darkening as she deliberately popped the remaining blisters. She stood up. “Wait here. I’ll go get him back.”

She quickly summoned Liu Yue’e. “Where’s the White Raccoon Dog? What did you do with him?”

Liu Yue’e looked bewildered. “What’s gotten into you, barging in here in the middle of the night? What White Raccoon Dog? How should I know?”

“Don’t play dumb,” Qin Yang retorted. “Didn’t you take a small white dog from my room?”

Only then did Liu Yue’e realize what Qin Yang meant by “White Raccoon Dog.”

“It’s just a dog,” Liu Yue’e said dismissively. “Little Fatty liked him, so I let him have him.”

“If he wants a dog, let his parents catch one themselves,” Qin Yang snapped, turning to knock on Qin Yong’s door.

“Hey, what’s wrong with letting Little Fatty have it? He’s the Old Qin Family’s grandson!” Liu Yue’e stepped forward to block her.

Qin Yang ignored her and continued knocking.

Soon, Zhao Chunhua’s cursing voice echoed from inside the room.

Qin Yong opened the door, startled to see Qin Yang. “Fourth Sister, what brings you here?”

“Where’s the dog?” Qin Yang demanded, her face grim.

“What dog?” Qin Yong stared at her blankly.

“White. Don’t tell me it’s not here,” Qin Yang said coldly.

Qin Yong finally remembered that his son had brought home a white puppy during dinner and had been so excited he even slept with it. He just hadn’t realized it belonged to Qin Yang.

His younger sister was not someone to be trifled with.

“It is here, Fourth Sister, but what’s this about…?”

“Enough talk. Bring it out now.”

“This…”

Qin Yong looked at Qin Yang, torn. His son was deeply attached to the puppy, which was currently tied up in his room.

“Qin Yang, it’s just a dog! Your mother has already decided it belongs to Little Fatty,” Liu Yue’e’s voice rang out from behind them.

Her words only fueled Qin Yang’s anger. Her own things, and this woman thinks she can just decide what to do with them? Taking what belongs to others as if it’s her right?

“Qin Yong, bring it out immediately, or you’ll regret it,” Qin Yang said sternly.

“Fourth Sister, look…” Qin Yong hesitated, torn between his son’s attachment and Liu Yue’e’s decision. He stood his ground, feigning reluctance while secretly hoping to keep the puppy.

Hmph.

Qin Yang nearly laughed in exasperation at this family. She had initially thought Qin Yong was honest, but now she realized he was no different from the rest of the Qin Family.

She shoved Qin Yong aside, sending him stumbling backward to crash against the door. Before he could react, Qin Yang had already slipped into the house.

The puppy, tethered by a rope around its neck, whined and tugged backward frantically at the sight of Qin Yang.

“What are you doing here? Put him down! He’s my son’s!” Zhao Chunhua, clad only in her nightgown, leaped from the bed and grabbed Qin Yang’s arm as she scooped up the puppy.

“How did he become your son’s? It seems you’ve become addicted to seizing what belongs to others, haven’t you?” Qin Yang glared at her, her eyes icy.

As a top-tier Qianyuan, Qin Yang possessed an innate aura of dominance that couldn’t be ignored, even without releasing her pheromones. Zhao Chunhua shivered, released her grip, and hesitated to advance, her eyes burning with resentment.

At that moment, Little Fatty, awakened by the commotion, rubbed his eyes. Seeing the puppy in Qin Yang’s arms, he immediately began rolling around on the bed, wailing, “Mommy, I want the dog! I want the dog!”

Zhao Chunhua hurried forward to soothe Little Fatty.

“Fourth Sister, look… no matter what, Little Fatty is your nephew. How can you snatch from a child?” Qin Yong gazed at his son with pity, his tone laced with reproach, as if it were his son’s right to have the dog.

“I’m not his parent. If he wants it, he can catch it himself,” Qin Yang replied without even glancing at Qin Yong, turning to leave with the puppy in her arms.

“You cursed wretch! What sins did I commit to give birth to you?” Liu Yue’e glared at Qin Zhao before turning her attention to the wailing Little Fatty. “My precious grandson, don’t cry. Grandma will get it back for you tomorrow.”

Get it back?

Qin Yang stopped in her tracks, her cold gaze sweeping over the scene. The entire Qin Family had emerged from their homes. Qin Cheng and Qin Luo peeked through the doorway, while Qin Youcai stood at the entrance, his face dark and his eyes burning with murderous intent.

“So, you think it’s okay to steal from my room?” Qin Yang raised her voice, making sure everyone could hear.

“Who stole anything from you?” Liu Yue’e retorted, her hands on her hips, her eyes darting away.

This unfilial daughter is becoming more outrageous by the day! Accusing her own mother of theft—what a disgrace!

“Taking something without my permission is stealing. Did I ever say I was giving you the dog?” Qin Yang retorted.

“You unfilial daughter! I took it, so what? What can you do about it?” Liu Yue’e snapped, her neck craned forward.

“I can’t stay in this house anymore,” Qin Yang declared. “Jin’an and I are moving out tomorrow.”

“You wouldn’t dare!” Qin Youcai finally lost his composure. Though he disliked Qin Yang, letting her move out would be a complete loss of face. What would the villagers say? How could he ever show his face in public again?

“You steal from my room and then blame me?” Qin Yang demanded.

“What’s yours is ours! Until the family is divided, everything belongs to the household!” Qin Youcai glared at her.

Shameless, Qin Yang thought.

She refused to back down. If she didn’t make a scene and leave now, she might never get another chance.

“If that’s how it is, then let’s call the Village Head to settle this,” Qin Yang challenged, meeting Qin Youcai’s gaze.

“You wouldn’t dare!” Qin Youcai’s face twisted at the mention of the Village Head. “You’ve gone too far! I’ll beat you to death today!” He grabbed a wooden stick from the kitchen and swung it at Qin Yang.

Despite his age, Qin Youcai had spent years working in the fields and was a Qianyuan. When his swing missed, the wooden stick crashed into the ground with a crack, snapping in two.

Qin Yang dodged the blow and clicked her tongue in annoyance. She hadn’t expected the old man to strike so fiercely. If that stick had hit her, it would have left a massive bruise, if not broken a bone.

She turned to Qin Zhao. “Go fetch the Village Head and have him come settle this.”

“You…” Qin Youcai, furious at missing his target and now facing the Village Head, felt his chest tighten. He pointed at Qin Yang. “You unfilial daughter! Are you trying to anger your father to death?”

Stealing things himself and then accusing me of making him angry? Typical Qin Family behavior.

“I’m not trying to anger you,” Qin Yang retorted, forcing out two tears to paint herself as the victim. “You’re all ganging up on Jin’an and me. This household is unbearable. If we stay, who knows what else you’ll do to us?” She needed to establish herself as the weaker party before the Village Head arrived, or she’d have no leg to stand on when the situation escalated.

“You…” Qin Youcai clutched his chest, staggering backward. Liu Yue’e rushed forward to steady him. “Aiyo, old man, what’s wrong? What sins have I committed to deserve such an unfilial daughter?”

Qin Yang wiped her eyes. “Second Sister, please go fetch the Village Head. If this keeps up, he’ll beat me to death!” She deliberately exaggerated the situation.

After all, the evidence still lay on the ground.

Qin Zhao glanced at Qin Yang, then fixed his gaze on Qin Youcai. After a moment of silence, he turned and strode toward the door.

“Get back here, you little brat!” Qin Youcai roared.

What’s gotten into everyone today?

Not a single one of them is listening to me! Even Second Elder, who’s always been the most obedient, is defying me now. It’s utter chaos!

No! I can’t let Qin Zhao fetch the Village Head.

If the Village Head comes, we’re done for!

Qin Youcai took a deep breath and pointed at Qin Yang. “What exactly are you trying to pull, you unfilial wretch?”

Qin Yang feigned hurt. “What could I possibly be doing? Aren’t you the ones who broke into my room to steal my things and claim them as your own? Elder Brother has hands and feet—if he wants something, why doesn’t he just work for it? Why resort to stealing?”

Qin Yang repeated the word “steal” with each sentence, shaming Qin Yong so deeply he wanted to crawl into a hole and hide. The child liked it—how does that make it stealing?