Chapter 205: Bold Guess

Chapter 205: Bold Guess
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
There was something Jiang Xia had kept from them. She wanted to wait until her guess was confirmed before sharing, hoping to offer them a pleasant surprise.
Soon, the porridge was ready. Zhou Lan ladled out six bowls, and the three of them carried them to the table. Jiang Chuan returned to the kitchen for dishes, while Jiang Xia took Jiang Gu to wash her hands.
Having practiced martial arts from a young age, Zhou Lan developed a bold personality. She often drank with her brother and fellow martial arts enthusiasts, building a solid tolerance for alcohol. She poured wine into four glasses and took her seat.
Zhou Wan was a tad surprised. So much had changed in the family since their last meeting. Apart from the noticeable improvements in their living conditions, the couple had also transitioned from being shy and timid to outgoing and vivacious. Zhou Lan had become the heart of the family, adored and cherished by all.
Previously, it was unheard of for a man to let a woman sit before him. But now, Jiang Chuan consistently put Zhou Lan first, always eager to assist her. Observing his sister being so treasured made Zhou Wan immensely happy.
However, the four wine glasses caught his attention. “Sister, 1 remember you typically avoid drinking. Why pour yourself a glass today?”
Taken by surprise, Zhou Lan chuckled, “It’s a rare occasion with you all here. I’m so elated that 1 felt like sharing a drink.”
Being ever considerate, Zhou Wan advised, “Your intentions are sweet. However, this liquor is potent. If you’re not accustomed, 1 fear you might feel ill.”
“If I do get tipsy, I’m home and can just sleep it off. Don’t fuss over it, elder brother,” she retorted playfully.
Seeing her so at ease, Zhou Wan chose not to press further. His heart swelled with joy at her happiness.
Maybe it was the high spirits or fatigue from the journey, but Zhou Wan found the vegetable porridge exceptionally delicious that evening. The pork, lean and perfectly cooked, complemented the liquor brilliantly.
As the night progressed, their laughter and chatter grew louder, with alcohol loosening their inhibitions. A slightly inebriated Zhou Wan clasped Jiang Chuan’s hand, reiterating, “As long as you cherish my sister, I’m content.”
Zhou Lan, who hadn’t indulged as much, felt a surge of emotion at her brother’s heartfelt words. Tears glistened in her eyes.
Noticing the emotional scene, Jiang Xia tactfully took her younger sister outside.
The Jiang family’s new home had three rooms. Jiang Chuan and Zhou Lan shared one, with Jiang Xia and Jiang Gu each having separate quarters. Given the state of their guests, the sisters decided to offer one of their rooms. Excitedly, Jiang Gu proposed, “Let’s give my room to uncle and auntie. I want to bunk with you tonight!”
Proudly, Jiang Xia ruffled Jiang Gu’s hair, “You’re such a sweetheart!”
They tidied up the room, and once everything was set, Jiang Gu laid down in Jiang Xia’s room, and Zhou Lan helped the tipsy guests to bed. It wasn’t long before the house was quiet.
That night, Jiang Xia lay in bed, eyes open in the pitch-dark room, thoughts of the day’s events keeping her awake. Her movements stirred Jiang Gu, who mumbled sleepily, “Sister, why aren’t you asleep?”
Feeling guilty for waking her sister, Jiang Xia apologized. She then decided to ask Jiang Gu about something that had been on her mind.
“Jiang Gu, do you feel stronger these days?”
Still groggy, Jiang Gu mumbled, “Yes, Jiang Gu is super strong. If I can do everything, then everyone will love me even more, and they won’t leave.”
Jiang Xia’s heart ached at this response. Despite the immense love they showered on Jiang Gu, the emotional scars of her early years lingered..