Chapter 232 - 233: Stealing
“So, since our family has deep roots here, our attachment to this place is strong.”
Su Bin’s skillful flattery put the village chief at ease, causing him to overlook those who held grievances against Su Bin.
The chief had no intention of leaving Qian Village, nor was he willing to part with his possessions.
What held even greater significance was that, as long as Su Bin and his companions remained in Qian Village, they would bask in the honor conferred by Su Bin’s future esteemed position.
With this in mind, the village chief’s mood lifted considerably.
Leaving Su Bin’s residence, the chief departed with a sense of contentment.
Qin Zhenzhen turned her gaze toward Su Bin, fully aware of his thoughts.
He aimed to avoid groveling excessively before the village chief, for he understood the repercussions it could entail.
If their sister was to live under the chief’s guardianship, it was imperative not to alienate him.
This young man comprehended when to yield and when to assert himself, exhibiting remarkable foresight.
The third group, led by Qian Duoduo and his parents, followed.
When Su Bin’s father was alive, he shared a cordial rapport with Qian Duoduo’s father.
Upon learning of Su Bin’s family’s impending relocation to town, they seized the opportunity to pay a visit.
Su Cheng and Qian Duoduo had been close friends; had the incident involving stolen corn not occurred, their bond would have persisted as fraternal.
Qian Duoduo approached Su Cheng and inquired, “Do you still harbor resentment over our previous clash?”
Initially, Su Cheng nursed animosity toward Qian Duoduo. However, after receiving multiple apologies, his enmity waned.
Nonetheless, Su Cheng’s forgiveness wasn’t bestowed without reservations.
Sixth Sister’s assertion was valid: Qian Duoduo had indeed schemed to implicate him by planting corn within their field.
Maintaining such a friendship was untenable.
Third Sister-in-law’s assessment proved accurate.
Like seeks out like.
Proximity to the company would undoubtedly draw suspicion.
A child who pilfers needles in youth may well grow to steal money.
Qian Duoduo had a history of thievery during his village days, with the pilfering of corns not constituting his first transgression.
With these considerations in mind, Su Cheng candidly addressed Qian Duoduo, “I’ll admit, I held a strong dislike for you initially. However, as time passed, that sentiment faded.’
“But I’ve also come to realize that our paths aren’t aligned.” “I’d prefer if you didn’t associate with me any longer.”
Qian Duoduo found himself bewildered.
His parents had intentions to purchase yam fields from Su Cheng’s family, and he had contemplated seeking Su Cheng’s assistance. Yet, he hadn’t anticipated Su Cheng severing ties so abruptly.
Reflecting on their past interactions, anger surged within Qian Duoduo. “I used to share whatever I had to eat with you. Now that you’ve climbed higher, you’re abandoning our friendship?”
Su Cheng shook his head. “Do you truly not understand, or are you merely feigning ignorance?”
Qian Duoduo was taken aback. Had he assumed their identities fundamentally changed following the corn incident?
In reality, even before Su Cheng occupied a prominent role, their camaraderie had already dwindled.
Su Cheng clenched his teeth and spoke with intensity, “I’ve shared meals with you, and you with me. If you believe you’re at a loss, I’ll make it right!”
Qian Duoduo was engulfed in humiliation, prompting him to abruptly exit Su Cheng’s dwelling.
Inwardly, Su Cheng mused, “I hope you comprehend that theft remains theft, regardless. ”
On the third day, Qian Shanmin reappeared in Qian Village.
Su Ping conveyed the information he had gathered to Su Bin and Qin
Zhenzhen.
Qian Shanmin had visited his Third Aunt-in-law’s abode.
While his Third Aunt-in-law did introduce a girl to him, Qian Shanmin rejected the proposition. He informed his Third Aunt-in-law’s family that he had already set his sights on someone he fancied.
Qian Shanmin’s presence at his Third Aunt-in-law’s residence was due to his son’s ailment—a twisted spine that demanded prolonged convalescence, rendering him incapable of strenuous labor..