Chapter 94: Extra – Past Life (1)

Chapter 94: Extra - Past Life (1)

The sky was just beginning to lighten when Jin Xiuzhu struggled to open her eyes. After a moment of disoriented daze, she propped herself up on the bed with her arm, but as soon as she moved, she felt an intense headache and a general weakness throughout her body.

She frowned, then gradually realized that something was amiss. The blankets on the bed were unfamiliar, made of poor quality material with several patches. Looking around the room, the layout seemed somewhat familiar, yet everything else was completely strange.

What was going on? Could it be that she had possessed another body again?

Feeling a bit frightened, she didn't want to die; she was very satisfied with her current life. Yang Yingxiong had called her a few days ago, saying he would bring his girlfriend back to visit in a few days and hoped she could help propose to the girl's family by the end of the year.

The brothers treated her like an elder, and Jin Xiuzhu enjoyed taking care of them. She had already started preparing gifts for the proposal.

Calculating that they would return tomorrow, Jin Xiuzhu had gone to bed early, hoping to be in good shape for their arrival. But now, upon opening her eyes, everything had changed.

However, she wasn't one to wallow in self-pity. Realizing the situation was wrong, she immediately got up, dressed, and went outside.

The door was thin, painted yellow, and opened with a small iron hook to the right.

Seeing this door and lock, Jin Xiuzhu felt a sense of familiarity. She remembered living in the military dependents' building, where the doors looked exactly like this.

Thinking about it, her heart skipped a beat.

Stepping out of the room, she surveyed her surroundings, becoming increasingly alarmed.

Even though many things in the house were different from her memories, the layout still bore traces of the past.

In the midst of her panic, Jin Xiuzhu suddenly noticed someone sitting in the living room.

The man sat in the shadows, head bowed, silent, and it was unclear how long he had been there.

Looking at the young, haggard face of the man, Jin Xiuzhu was momentarily stunned—it was a younger version of Jiang Mingchuan.

She instinctively wanted to call out, but quickly realized something was off. Jiang Mingchuan wouldn't sit here without returning to his room; clearly, something had happened between them.

But she couldn't understand why—had she and Jiang Mingchuan argued before? They had, but never to this extent.

Jiang Mingchuan didn't seem surprised by her footsteps. He lifted his head, his eyes bloodshot and dark circles under them.

Jin Xiuzhu had never seen such a disheveled and exhausted man and couldn't help but frown.

She knew this wasn't the Jiang Mingchuan she knew.

After a moment of silence, Jiang Mingchuan moved his lips and asked in a hoarse voice, "Are you really sure?"

Jin Xiuzhu was puzzled but didn't show it. She was adept at reading people, even if this skill had dulled over the years. It was enough to handle Jiang Mingchuan. In a calm voice, she threw the question back, "Shouldn't you be the one who's sure?"

Hearing this, Jiang Mingchuan fell silent again. As Jin Xiuzhu began to feel hungry and thought about what to cook for breakfast, she heard him say in a rough, dry voice, "Alright, let's go get divorced this afternoon."

"..."

Divorce?

Jin Xiuzhu remained silent. She was certain that the Jiang Mingchuan in front of her was not the one she knew, and neither was she. Her mind raced, realizing she must have possessed the body of this world's "Jin Xiuzhu." Over time, she sometimes forgot this fact, but occasionally wondered what would have happened if she hadn't become "Jin Xiuzhu." Now, it seemed this was their fate.

Without responding, she glanced at him and then went to the kitchen.

Jiang Mingchuan withdrew his gaze after speaking, knowing Jin Xiuzhu would likely mock him. But hearing no familiar words, only the sound of cooking from the kitchen, he frowned, unsure of her intentions.

The kitchen had almost nothing left. Jin Xiuzhu searched and found only three eggs, a few vegetables, and a small piece of ginger. The rice container was nearly empty, but there was still half a bag of flour. Hungry, she mixed all the flour, kneaded it, and cut it into small pieces with a knife since she couldn't find a rolling pin.

She heated the pan, added oil, cracked the eggs, and fried them. Then she added water, noodles, and vegetables.

Soon, the aroma filled the kitchen, and the two children woke up, drawn by the smell.

Seeing Jin Xiuzhu cooking, the children didn't look happy. They knew this might be their last meal together as a family.

Jin Xiuzhu sensed their gaze and turned to look at them. She recognized He Yan and Yanyan but also saw differences. He Yan was thin and cold-eyed, while Yanyan was skinny and short, with sparse hair and sallow skin, looking at her with fear and uncertainty.

Jin Xiuzhu's heart tightened. She had always taken good care of the children, keeping them healthy and strong. Seeing them so malnourished, she felt a pang of emotion.

The children quickly hid when they saw her.

Suppressing her complex emotions, Jin Xiuzhu finished cooking the noodles and served them in four bowls. One bowl had no egg, so she added more noodles instead. After serving, she added a drop of sesame oil to each bowl.

Then she called out, "Dinner is ready."

Jin Xiuzhu carried her bowl out to eat, and the children took turns entering the kitchen to fetch their bowls.

However, the little girl didn't start eating immediately. Instead, she brought her bowl to her father nearby. Jiang Mingchuan hesitated, looking at Jin Xiuzhu, who kept her head down, still unsure how to handle the situation.

Fu Yanyan whispered, "Uncle, please eat. There's another bowl."

Jiang Mingchuan took the bowl.

Fu Yanyan then returned to the kitchen, carrying the bowl without an egg. She glanced at Jin Xiuzhu and He Yan seated at the table but didn't approach. Instead, she squatted at the kitchen entrance to eat.

Even without the egg, she ate heartily, gulping down the food as if it were a delicacy.

Jin Xiuzhu noticed the few vegetables left in her bowl, which she had intended for Jiang Mingchuan.

Jiang Mingchuan must have seen this too and gestured for Fu Yanyan to come closer. He then transferred the egg from his bowl to hers.

Fu Yanyan looked at him.

Jiang Mingchuan managed a smile, "Uncle doesn't like it. You eat it."

Fu Yanyan bit her lip and softly acknowledged, then squatted beside Jiang Mingchuan.

The family of four ate a quiet breakfast.

After finishing her meal, Jin Xiuzhu placed her bowl on the table and returned to her room.

Jiang Mingchuan waited for his younger daughter to finish before getting up. He took her bowl and cleared the table, heading to the kitchen to wash them.

He Yan watched his sister on tiptoes wiping the table. Uncharacteristically, he didn’t mock her this time. Instead, he silently observed the table and suddenly said, "It would be nice if we could have such noodles every day."

His eyes turned red as he spoke, then he glared at his sister, "Happy now? You won’t see me anymore."

Fu Yanyan paused in her cleaning but did not respond.

She thought to herself that she should be happy; she didn’t like it here at all.

After washing the dishes, Jiang Mingchuan walked to the room’s door. Without entering, he stood there and said, "I’ll be back by noon."

Some things were left unsaid, but both knew what was implied.

Jin Xiuzhu lay on the bed without moving. Her head ached terribly, and she wanted to rest properly. She hoped that sleeping would bring her back to her original world upon waking.

She disliked this place and wished it was just a dream.

She didn’t answer, and the person outside didn’t speak again. Soon, she heard the fading footsteps and the sound of the living room door closing.

Jin Xiuzhu closed her eyes. Perhaps truly exhausted, she quickly fell asleep.

Time passed, and when she opened her eyes again, the sky outside was bright. The room felt hot, and looking around the familiar yet alien environment, she felt deeply disappointed.

However, she had always been decisive. Realizing she might not return, she decided to prepare for survival here and make choices that would benefit her most.

Divorce was out of the question, whether considering benefits or emotions. Leaving Jiang Mingchuan wasn’t the best option.

Next, she needed to earn money.

Fortunately, she had experience with these things—interacting with Jiang Mingchuan and the children, earning through painting. She had done it before.

With these thoughts, Jin Xiuzhu got up and left the room, pocketing some money and coupons.

Everything in the room was packed neatly into two large bags, with the money placed in the smaller one. It wasn’t much—only about 240 yuan and some coupons.

She found it surprising that someone would dare divorce with so little money.

Both children were in the living room, but they sat quietly, far apart, indicating a strained relationship.

This made Jin Xiuzhu uncomfortable. In her memory, the siblings had always been lively, constantly talking or bickering, even asking her to mediate.

But she knew this place was different from her familiar home.

Seeing her come out, both children looked up.

He Yan’s gaze was appraising and distant, while her daughter’s was filled with fear.

Clearly, this “Jin Xiuzhu” wasn’t close to the children. Having made her decision, she directly told her daughter, "Come with me."

Surprised that her mother sought her alone, Fu Yanyan quietly agreed, "Okay."

Jin Xiuzhu walked past He Yan and out the door, with Fu Yanyan following closely behind.

He Yan watched the mother-daughter pair leave, feeling displeased. He thought, indeed, blood is thicker than water; no matter how much she pretended to like him, her heart was always with her daughter.

Jin Xiuzhu, walking ahead, wanted to talk to her daughter but found her trailing silently behind. Even when she slowed down, Fu Yanyan matched her pace, staying at a distance.

Jin Xiuzhu realized their relationship had issues.

Without memories of the past, she couldn’t know what had happened.

From the morning scene, she saw that her daughter didn’t fare well in this household, always trying to please everyone cautiously.

Jin Xiuzhu initiated the conversation, "I’m not planning to divorce your father... Uncle."

Hearing this, Fu Yanyan paused, neither disappointed nor hopeful. After a moment, she softly acknowledged.

Jin Xiuzhu continued, "I’ve thought about it. If we divorce, our lives might be worse than now. At least we have a house here. But if we leave, we can’t go back to our hometown. Going south with our limited funds, who knows what we’d face."

Fu Yanyan remained silent, remembering how Jin Xiuzhu had promised to work hard for her just days ago.

But Jin Xiuzhu had broken promises many times, so this one didn’t surprise her.

"However, I’ve realized that life is ours to live. Whether good or bad, it’s our choice. We shouldn’t suffer. Saving money hasn’t helped, so we might as well spend it on ourselves."

Surprised by her mother’s words, Fu Yanyan listened intently, never expecting to hear such sentiments from Jin Xiuzhu.

Still, she remained skeptical, thinking it might just be empty talk.

True to her word, Jin Xiuzhu bought rice, soy sauce, flour, vegetables, and meat at the supply store, filling two large bags.

Jin Xiuzhu carried the larger bag, while Fu Yanyan took the smaller one.

At the counter, Jin Xiuzhu noticed ice cream and bought two bean-flavored popsicles, giving one to her daughter. They walked back, eating their treats.

Fu Yanyan followed, dazed, looking at her ice pop and then at Jin Xiuzhu.

Suddenly, she realized her mother seemed different this time.

She lowered her head and cautiously took a bite. The ice stick was very sweet, gritty, and delicious.

This was her first time eating one. Her mother used to buy them only for He Yan, but they were the cheapest kind that cost just one cent, not these expensive red bean ice sticks.

On the way, Jin Xiuzhu encountered Qian Yufeng, who was carrying a basket back from the family plot. Seeing her buy so many things, Qian Yufeng thought she had lost her mind after an argument and quickly pulled her aside to advise, "It's fine that you bought meat, but why so many vegetables? Aren't you growing anything in your plot? Money shouldn't be spent this way."

"Listen, sister-in-law, your neighbor is no good. Don't fight with your own husband. Captain Jiang is too kind-hearted, and you have such a temper. It's okay to argue, but don't take it out on money. Go home and live well. Couples always argue; even my husband and I have two kids and still fight."

Jin Xiuzhu looked at Qian Yufeng's sallow, wrinkled face, which was completely different from the person she remembered.

She wanted to say something but ended up saying nothing, merely nodding.

Qian Yufeng took out a small bunch of green vegetables from her basket and gave them to her, "Go home, don't upset yourself. If you're unhappy, come find me."

Jin Xiuzhu nodded, "Thank you, sister-in-law."

Qian Yufeng waved her hand. Jin Xiuzhu watched her leave, feeling a pang of sadness. They were once close friends, yet now only she had those memories.

After Qian Yufeng left, Jin Xiuzhu said to her daughter, "Let's go."

When they returned home, He Yan was surprised to see them bring back so many things. Jin Xiuzhu didn't beat around the bush and directly instructed him, "Light the stove and wash the vegetables. Yanyan, sweep the floor."

Fu Yanyan glanced at Jin Xiuzhu, put down her things, and grabbed the broom.

He Yan didn't move upon hearing this. Jin Xiuzhu had never asked him to do any chores before.

Jin Xiuzhu looked at him calmly, "Can't I ask you to do anything?"

He Yan silently looked at her, then got up and went to the kitchen.

Fu Yanyan noticed the commotion and was shocked again. She never expected her mother to make He Yan work, and he actually did it.

Jin Xiuzhu brought everything into the kitchen and placed the vegetables in the sink. After He Yan lit the stove, she had him wash the vegetables while she cut the fat off the meat to render lard.

For lunch, Jin Xiuzhu made stir-fried greens with pork cracklings, spicy eggplant, and tomato soup with meat.

When Jiang Mingchuan came home, the rice was bubbling in the pot. As soon as he entered, he smelled the delicious aroma, somewhat surprised—it was the first time he had smelled such fragrant food.

Soon, he saw his son and daughter bringing out dishes, all looking and smelling wonderful.

Unable to resist, he walked towards the kitchen. At the door, he saw Jin Xiuzhu ladling rice soup, his son cleaning the countertop and sink, and his daughter setting the table.

Seeing this scene, he felt a strange sense of warmth, thinking this was what a home should feel like.

But this home would soon fall apart.

The rice was ready soon, and the whole family enjoyed a delicious meal. Both children ate voraciously, especially He Yan, who had never tasted such good food. Since he had helped prepare it, he ate without hesitation.

Fu Yanyan also kept serving herself more. Initially, she was cautious, but the food was so delicious that she couldn't help taking more. When she realized her mother didn't scold her, she served herself several times.

After seeing her daughter finish, Jin Xiuzhu poured her a large bowl of meat soup, encouraging her to eat more.

Fu Yanyan held the bowl, lowering her head to drink, her eyes red. This was the first time her mother had treated her like this, usually only calling her a pig and criticizing her for eating.

After the meal, the three of them didn't move. He Yan glanced at Jin Xiuzhu, waiting for instructions.

Jiang Mingchuan started clearing the table.

Neither child left, knowing something important was about to happen.

Sure enough, after Jiang Mingchuan finished washing the dishes, he sat next to Jin Xiuzhu and took out a stack of money from his pocket. He pushed it towards her, "Here's a thousand yuan. Take it."

"In the past few years, you haven't had a good life with me. After the divorce, take care of the children. This is all I can give now. In the future, I'll save some money every month and send it to you by the end of the year. You can contact me if you need anything."

Jin Xiuzhu took the money without hesitation.

Both remained silent, making the living room atmosphere quiet.

Finally, Jin Xiuzhu looked up at Jiang Mingchuan and asked directly, "Do you want a divorce?"

Jiang Mingchuan seemed surprised by this question, showing a hint of confusion but honestly shook his head, "The children aren't old enough. A divorce won't benefit them."

Jin Xiuzhu nodded, "I agree. So tell me, what do you really mean?"

Jiang Mingchuan looked at her, puzzled.

Jin Xiuzhu continued, "I married you to build a good life, but it seems you don't think the same. Everyone can see you have feelings for the neighbor. Do you think this is good for the children?"

Though she wasn't sure of their exact situation, from Qian Yufeng's words, she guessed the situation. The "Jin Xiuzhu" here couldn't compete with Zhao Yun.

Jiang Mingchuan frowned, "I've done nothing improper with her. Zhao Yun said Hero ran away from home. Yang Yao wasn't around, so I helped look for him..."

Jin Xiuzhu frowned, "Hero ran away from home?"

Jiang Mingchuan nodded, "It seems there was an argument. The boy is about He Yan's age, and running away is dangerous."

Jin Xiuzhu didn't understand what caused Hero to run away, but she knew the boy must have been deeply hurt, "Did you find him?"

Jiang Mingchuan shook his head, "I've contacted the police stations in the county and city. They told us to wait for news."

Jin Xiuzhu nodded, deciding to focus on the present issue, and spoke sternly, "This is the last time, Jiang Mingchuan. No matter what reason she has, you must tell me immediately. This family isn't just about you; it includes me and the children. Your reputation affects us too."

"Also, from now on, your salary goes to me. Whether you give money to your comrades or siblings, it must go through me. I manage the household finances and make decisions about the children's upbringing, and you must support me."

"Even though you're tired, you need to help at home. Everyone does chores. You wash clothes, He Yan washes dishes, Yanyan sweeps and washes vegetables, and I cook. If you have no objections, we'll proceed this way. Otherwise, you can leave."

The last sentence was directed at the children, specifically He Yan, but he didn't seem to understand and stayed seated, glancing secretly at Jiang Mingchuan.

Jin Xiuzhu asked Jiang Mingchuan, "Do you agree?"

Jiang Mingchuan nodded. "I can accept anything."

"Then it's settled. I hope you can live up to it."

In the afternoon, Jin Xiuzhu took the two children and thoroughly cleaned the house inside and out, throwing away everything they no longer needed. After all this effort, the three of them were drenched in sweat, but there was no denying that the house instantly became much cleaner and more spacious, making it more pleasant to look at.

Jin Xiuzhu fanned herself while saying, "We'll go to the county tomorrow and buy a fan. It's too hot in here."

The two children were both surprised by this, and He Yan excitedly asked, "Really?"

Everyone else had electric fans, but not their family.

Jin Xiuzhu hummed in agreement.

That evening, Jin Xiuzhu cooked all the remaining meat, and the family of four ate until their mouths were greasy.

Before going back to his room, He Yan said to Jin Xiuzhu, "As long as we can eat meat every day, I'll do anything you ask."

Hearing this, Jin Xiuzhu couldn't help but laugh.

She felt that no matter how much this child changed, his love for food remained the same.

Feeling a bit embarrassed, He Yan grunted and quickly ran back into the house.

Author's note:

Giving a different ending from the previous life.