Husband, Let Me Touch Your Abs - Chapter 138

Chapter 138

 

“What did you say?”

 

Zhao Beichuan said happily, “Mother, Lu Yao is pregnant.”

 

Mother Lu’s eyes widened in disbelief. She grabbed her son’s arms and looked him up and down nervously. “Is this true? Did you go to the clinic to check?”

 

“We did. We found out some days ago, but the pregnancy was still early, so we didn’t say anything. Now that it’s been over three months and the fetus is stable, we came to tell you.”

 

Mother Lu’s nose twitched, and tears streamed down her face like falling beans.

 

“Mother, why are you crying?” Lu Yao hurriedly pulled out a handkerchief to help wipe her face.

 

“I’m just so happy! After all these years, we’ve finally waited for this child!” Now, the last worry that weighed on her heart was gone. Mother Lu smiled through her tears, unable to contain her joy.

 

“Quickly, take off your shoes and sit on the kang. Tonight, I’ll make chicken soup for you to drink.”

 

“Don’t bother. I’ve been drinking soup every day lately. I’ve already gained a layer of weight.” Lu Yao wasn’t concerned about getting fat but was worried that too much nourishment might make the baby too large, complicating the delivery. When Lu Miao had given birth, it left a deep psychological impression on him. He didn’t want to experience a difficult labor.

 

“At this stage, it’s fine to eat more. When you’re six or seven months along, you can eat less and move more.” The old lady, who had given birth to five children, knew these matters well.

 

Lu Yao saw that he couldn’t dissuade her and let Dachuan go help kill the chicken, while he stayed on the kang, playing with sheep bone joints with the two children.

 

Before long, the families of Lu Lin and Lu Yun returned one after another. Lu Miao came to pick up Dandan and ended up joining them as well.

 

Lu Lin helped Zhao Beichuan deal with the chicken in the courtyard and told the old lady to go inside and rest.

 

“Third Brother, why are you free to come over today?” Hu Chunrong said as she removed her scarf.

 

“Had nothing to do, so I came to freeload a meal.”

 

“Why do I feel like you’ve gained a little weight?” Hu Chunrong leaned closer to examine him. “Your complexion is also much better than before.”

 

Hearing this, the old lady burst out laughing. “Your Third Brother is expecting.”

 

Lu Yun didn’t understand. “Expecting what?”

 

Hu Chunrong didn’t catch on at first either but then her eyes lit up. “Oh my! He’s pregnant, isn’t he?”

 

Lu Yao blushed and nodded.

 

The three immediately surrounded him excitedly, asking, “Did you see a doctor? How many months? Do you feel unwell?”

 

“We did. It’s been over three months. I don’t feel unwell. I just thought it was a stomach issue when I felt nauseous earlier. I didn’t expect it was caused by pregnancy.”

 

Lu Miao puffed up angrily. “Third Brother, you really kept this a tight secret. You didn’t even tell me!”

 

“It was still early then. I was worried about raising false hopes in case something went wrong.”

 

Hu Chunrong teased with a laugh, “I knew it! I said you looked like you were pregnant, and you insisted you weren’t!”

 

“After so many years without…who would’ve thought?”

 

Lu Yun said, “This child didn’t come easily. You two must take good care of it.”

 

Speaking of this, Lu Yao said helplessly, “Ever since Dachuan found out I was pregnant, he’s been acting like a different person. He follows me everywhere I go. He even suggested sleeping in separate rooms for fear of crushing me at night.”

 

Lu Miao smirked. “Brother-in-law isn’t afraid of crushing you; he’s afraid he won’t be able to resist!”

 

“You little brat, still daring to tease your brother!” Lu Yao reached out to tickle Lu Miao.

 

Mother Lu quickly scolded, “How old are you now? Stop fooling around! You need to be more careful with your condition.”

 

“Got it.” Lu Yao couldn’t help but laugh. He suddenly felt like he had become a rare and precious animal in a zoo under everyone’s protection.

 

Mother Lu decided to personally cook the soup, and Hu Chunrong went to help. The three brothers chatted on the kang.

 

Lu Miao leaned close to Third Brother’s ear and whispered, “Third Brother, let me tell you, by the fourth or fifth month, marital activities will be fine again as long as you’re careful.”

 

Lu Yao pinched him. “Shameless!”

 

“What’s there to be ashamed of? When Changbao comes back after six months, I still feel like I haven’t had enough of sleeping next to him.”

 

Lu Yun laughed and pinched him too. “You’ve gotten bolder since getting married.”

 

Lu Miao dodged and chuckled for a while before sighing, “News came from the military camp a few days ago. They say the battle in Yingzhou is intense. I wonder when he’ll come back.”

 

Everyone knew he was worried. Lu Yao comforted him, “The Qu family escort team delivered 6,000 shi of grain, medicine, cotton clothing, and other supplies to Yingzhou along with the northern army. The imperial court attaches great importance to this battle. With the Prince of north leading the troops, victory is assured.”

 

Despite the reassurance, Lu Miao still felt uneasy. War always meant casualties. On the battlefield, swords and arrows had no eyes. Who could say if injuries might occur…

 

Lu Yun patted his hand but didn’t know what to say to comfort him.

 

Just then, Dandan ran in from outside. “Mom, Grandma cooked eggs for me.”

 

Lu Yun picked him up and teased him, “Dandan eating eggs? Afterward, you’ll turn into a little fool!”

 

“I’m not a fool! I want to be a general and fight barbarians with Dad!”

 

“Wow, following in your father’s footsteps!” The three couldn’t help but laugh.

 

Lu Miao took his son and peeled the egg for him.

 

“Where are Jinzi and Yinzi?” Lu Yao asked.

 

“Youcai went to fetch them. They’ll be here soon.” Ever since the Wang elders came over, Jinzi and Yinzi no longer needed the old lady’s care, easing her burden.

 

When the Wang elders first arrived, they weren’t used to living there. Not knowing any neighbors, they stayed cooped up in the courtyard every day, almost deciding to return home.

 

It was Changbao who helped introduce Wang Laoyezi to someone from the military’s horse stable. Wang Laoyezi took on an idle position helping out, earning 200 wen a month.

 

With work to do, Wang Laoyezi finally settled down. His skill in horse care surpassed the young soldiers in the camp, resolving many livestock issues. Over time, he even took in a few apprentices.

 

Meanwhile, Wang Laotai looked after her two grandsons at home and occasionally visited neighbors. Once she got to know them, she found the residents to be honest people, making life more comfortable.

 

As they spoke, Wang Youcai arrived with the two children. Wang Jinzi and Wang Yinzi were shy by nature. They greeted everyone quietly before running off to play with Brother Shitou.

 

Hu Chunrong asked, “Didn’t you ask the elders to join us for a meal?”

 

Wang Youcai scratched his head. “My father already ate outside. My mother didn’t want to move, so I brought the kids over.”

 

Mother Lu said, “There’s chicken soup in the pot. Take some back for your in-laws later.”

 

“Okay.”

 

The food was ready soon, and everyone gathered around a large round table. The old lady took the lead, saying, “I have an announcement to make today. We have good news—Lu Yao and Dachuan are about to have a child!”

 

Lu Lin looked at his brother and brother-in-law in surprise. “You’re expecting?!”

 

“Yes.”

 

“That’s great! Haha, I’m going to be an uncle again.”

 

Shitou said softly, “Does that mean I’ll be a big brother again?”

 

“That’s right.”

 

Taozi said, “Then I’ll be a big sister!”

 

Jinzi and Yinzi said together, “We’ll be big brothers too.”

 

After a moment, Dandan asked, “Will I still be the little brother?”

 

Everyone burst into laughter. Lu Miao patted his head and said, “You won’t be the little brother anymore. You’ll be a big brother too.”

 

Dandan grinned widely and lisped, “I’m big now!”

 

The family had a joyous meal. Lu Yao had a good appetite today and ate more than usual, feeling too full to sleep that night.

 

Zhao Beichuan let him lean in his arms, gently rubbing his stomach. “Why did you eat so much? Your belly is round now.”

 

“The food Mother made was too delicious. I couldn’t help but eat an extra bowl.”

 

Zhao Beichuan lowered his head and rubbed his face against the top of his hair. “Today was truly a happy day. Sharing the news with the family feels like a weight lifted off my chest.” Xiaonian and Xiaochun had told them the news yesterday. Xiaonian was so excited, saying she would make lots of clothes for her nephew.

 

“Let me see my son.” Zhao Beichuan lifted Lu Yao’s clothes and rested his face on his belly.

 

“It might be a daughter.”

 

“A daughter would be even better. Just as long as she doesn’t look like me; otherwise, it’ll be hard to find a husband.”

 

Lu Yao couldn’t help but laugh. “That’s not necessarily true. Xiaonian is quite good-looking.”

 

“Xiaonian takes after my mother. But Xiaodou and I look more like my eldest uncle.”

 

Lu Yao remembered Xiaodou once mentioning that Zhao Beichuan resembled his uncle and had always been curious. “Next time we’re free, let’s visit the elders.”

 

“Alright.” Zhao Beichuan helped him smooth his clothes and continued rubbing his stomach.

 

Lu Yao turned around and hugged Zhao Beichuan. “It’s been hard on you during this time.”

 

“What’s been hard?”

 

Lu Yao smirked mischievously, reaching out to tease Zhao Beichuan, making him shiver. “Stop it.”

 

“We haven’t done it for more than three months now, and it’ll still be another seven months until the birth. Can you hold out?”

 

Zhao Beichuan gritted his teeth. “I can.”

 

“But it might not listen.”

 

The warmth of Lu Yao’s hand caused Zhao Beichuan to frown slightly, his breathing becoming rapid.

 

“How about I help you in another way?”

 

…

 

The two finally rested late into the night, lying opposite each other.

 

(there was no fowp fowp😭😭😭) 

 

During this time, Ma Kuan had been in the capital scouting for properties. Most of the houses ranged from eight thousand taels of silver to ten thousand, with the more conveniently located ones being smaller, while the spacious ones were further away from the city center. Finding a property that was perfect in every way was truly difficult.

 

However, there was some progress. Before leaving, Lu Yao had casually mentioned to him to keep an eye out for any restaurants or inns in the capital that might be up for rent or sale.

 

While inquiring about houses, Ma Kuan stumbled upon a restaurant that was being sold. It was located in the West District and originally owned by the wife of the Secretary of the Cabinet. After Huang Shilang was demoted to Lingzhou this May, the restaurant was being sold off to raise funds.

 

The asking price was seventeen thousand taels of silver. The surrounding area was bustling with other restaurants and shops. After one look, Ma Kuan felt it was a good find.

 

Unfortunately, he didn’t have enough money. Lu Yao had given him ten thousand taels, and he only had five thousand taels on hand. If he bought the property, there wouldn’t be enough left to buy a house.

 

He had no choice but to write home for support and look for alternative solutions.

 

Soon, there was a turn of events. While in the capital, he ran into a wine merchant from the Feng family, whom he had previously encountered in the south when they expressed interest in purchasing Lu Wine.

 

Though the two had never met before, one of Feng’s subordinates recognized Ma Kuan. While dining at an inn, Feng’s staff initiated a conversation, and Ma Kuan quickly stood to toast them.

 

Feng’s merchant, appreciating the gesture, invited him to join their table.

 

During the meal, the conversation turned to Lu Wine. The merchant remarked, “Your Lu Wine is truly exceptional, especially in winter. A sip warms you up immediately. It’s smooth and leaves a sweet aftertaste. It’s really delightful.”

 

Ma Kuan replied modestly, “You flatter us. Recently, I’ve noticed that several new wines in the capital are also quite clear, similar to ours.”

 

“None of them compare. They’re superficial imitations and lack the essence of Lu Wine.” The Feng merchant, an expert in wine, knew exactly what would sell well. Just one taste was enough for him to judge.

 

Lu Wine had a unique aroma that many others lacked. Its brewing process was notoriously complex, making it nearly impossible to replicate.

 

“Shopkeeper Ma, let’s speak openly. Could you supply me with Lu Wine next year?”

 

“How much are you looking for?”

 

“Fifty thousand jin(25k litres).”

 

This was no small amount. Squinting slightly, Ma Kuan did some mental calculations. In fact, transporting the wine south would save over eight thousand taels in transportation costs, making it even more profitable to sell to them.

 

“Fifty thousand jin might be difficult. While I manage the Central State Winery, the business ultimately doesn’t belong to me. I can probably allocate thirty thousand jin for you, but an advance deposit would be necessary.”

 

“Of course! No problem.” Feng’s merchant looked at Ma Kuan with admiration. “You’re wasted in the Central State. Why not come to Suzhou with me? I’ll give you thirty percent of the winery’s profits.”

 

Ma Kuan smiled faintly. “Thank you for the offer, but my employer is my benefactor and my sister-in-law. I have no intention of leaving them.”

 

The merchant’s eyes flickered. “Very well. Then let’s stick to business.”

 

At two taels per jin, thirty thousand jin would come to sixty thousand taels of silver. The merchant paid an advance of twenty thousand taels, with the remaining forty thousand to be paid upon delivery. Selling this wine in southern restaurants could easily double the profit.

 

With sufficient funds, Ma Kuan purchased the restaurant and also bought a small three-entry courtyard on Zhangtai Street for thirteen thousand taels.

 

Interestingly, both properties had belonged to the demoted Secretary Huang. Together, the shop and the house cost thirty thousand taels in total.

 

In the land-scarce capital, the house was considered very spacious, even larger than Lin Zijian’s residence. Once it was cleaned and prepared, Zhao Beidou moved in, inviting Lin Zijian and Lu Yuan over to see the new home.

 

“Wow, you’ve already bought a house in the capital?!” Lin Zijian exclaimed as he entered the courtyard.

 

“It was my brother-in-law who bought it. I don’t have that kind of money.”

 

“Your brother-in-law?” Lin Zijian paused, confused.

 

“Brother Kuan. Didn’t you meet him at the restaurant last time?”

 

“Yes, I did. So, your sister’s marrying him?”

 

“Yes, the wedding is set for next June. If you’re free, come join us for the celebration.”

 

“Sure, I’ll come if I can.”

 

“Lu Yuan, why are you so quiet?” Zhao Beidou stopped and asked.

 

Lu Yuan raised his head, forcing a smile as he looked around. “This house must have cost a lot. It’s almost as big as my mentor’s place.”

 

“I’m not sure. Brother Kuan just told me to move in, and when I arrived, everything was already set up.”

 

Taking a deep breath, Lu Yuan suddenly said, “I don’t feel well. I’ll head back first and visit another day.” Without waiting for a response, he hurried out.

 

Watching him leave, Lin Zijian looked puzzled, while Zhao Beidou sighed lightly, having a good idea of what had pricked Lu Yuan’s pride.

 

The Lu family was poor, and Lu Yuan, as the only scholar from his town, had once brought them much honor.

 

The town’s gentry had given his family a considerable sum, and the county had contributed funds as well, totaling three to four thousand taels of silver. Lu Yuan, having never seen so much money before, once believed he had turned his life around and would no longer be a pauper.

 

But compared to his two friends, he was still worth nothing. The little money he had wasn’t even enough to buy the smallest house in the capital.

 

Tears welled up in his eyes as a thorn quietly took root in his heart, growing amidst the barren soil.

 

Years later, when he was executed for embezzling disaster relief funds, he looked at a poorly dressed child in the distance holding his parents’ hands. The child said, “When I grow up, I’ll study hard and become a good official, not a corrupt one like that villain!”

 

Yes… he had once wanted to be a good official too. But everything had changed…