BXBX NOVEL Chapter 288 - 288: Mocking
Jiang Xia heard everything clearly from the kitchen and sneered. Now Liu You realized she was a guest? Based on her behavior, one might think she owned the place.
Jiang Qing had just finished washing radishes. She put them in the basket and said to Zhou Lan, “Mother, the vegetables are ready. 1’11 go greet the guests now and come back to help you later.”
Zhou Lan, teaching Jiang Gu how to prepare river shrimps to remove their fishy taste, waved her hand after hearing Jiang Qing’s words, “Both of you sisters go inside. We don’t need so many people in the kitchen.”
Following Jiang Qing to the main house, Jiang Xia saw Liu You and the matchmaker sitting there with crossed legs, looking very comfortable.
Jiang Xia observed Liu You’s mannerisms, her constant adjustments to her leather skirt and lace collar, and realized she was intentionally drawing attention to her outfit.
Always willing to oblige, Jiang Xia thought if Liu You wanted compliments, she’d help her out.
She sat next to Liu You, exaggerating her tone, “Wow, sister, you look so pretty! If I didn’t know any better, I’d think a college student had entered the village. Your outfit with those floral boots looks great.”
Liu You, failing to detect the sarcasm, took it as a genuine compliment and proudly said, “Of course! This skirt was bought for me by my younger brother from the city. It cost 25 coins, the same as a family’s monthly expenses.”
Jiang Xia rolled her eyes internally. How could someone be so tactless, boasting without any sense of propriety?
No matter how good the clothing, if worn incorrectly, it’s a waste. Liu You’s attire, paired with those flashy boots, made her look like a silly village girl trying too hard.
Seeing no one paying her attention, Liu You tried to steer the conversation, “Don’t be envious, sister-in-law. Once I marry into the family, I’ll take care of everyone. It’s just an outfit, I’ll ask my younger brother to buy one for you.” Where did Liu You get the idea that Jiang Qing was envious? She really overestimated herself!
Jiang Qing, gentle by nature, chose not to respond. But Jiang Xia wouldn’t stand for anyone bullying her sister. With a sweet smile, she remarked, “It’s just an outfit. It needs to fit right to look good. Can a dog in a jacket ever rival the elegance of a fox?”
“You!” Liu You’s face darkened. She pointed angrily at Jiang Xia, “So young, yet so insolent. You’ll regret this in the future!”
While Jiang Qing could tolerate ill-treatment towards herself, she wouldn’t stand for anyone bullying her family. Her gaze turned icy as she fixed Liu You with a stare, “Whatever fate befalls her in the future is none of your concern. You’ve yet to settle matters with Second Brother Zhang. Don’t presume to call us family too soon. Otherwise, you’re the only one who will end up embarrassed.”
Liu You was taken aback by this retort. She had always perceived Jiang Qing as a kind-hearted soul and had never seen her show such ferocity. For a moment, she was at a loss for words.
Just then, Zhao Wan entered the room. Seeing this, Liu You immediately changed her expression, looking wronged, “Sister Jiang, is this how you treat your guests? I came into the house and there was no one around. And when you finally arrived, you spoke to me harshly. If I’ve done something wrong, please let me know. I will definitely take note in the future.”
Jiang Xia was astounded. Had this woman trained in the art of Face-Changing opera? She could shift her expressions in a heartbeat and manipulate the truth. And now she was addressing her as ‘Sister Jiang’? Had she suddenly become too timid to use the term sister-in-law?
Upon spotting Zhao Wan, Jiang Xia deduced that Liu You’s words were meant for Zhao Wan’s ears, hoping she would reproach Jiang Qing.
How cunning!
Jiang Xia wouldn’t fall for it. Immediately imitating Liu You, she pretended to be on the verge of tears, “It’s all my fault. I heard you address my big sister as sister-in-law, and thought you were Zhang Hu’s wife. 1 thought coming to our own home wouldn’t need formalities, so I forgot to inform my sister that you had arrived. It’s all on me, please don’t blame her..”