The reborn of paranoid boss cannon fodder wife(271-275)

Chapter 271: Our Home



Bai Lu's expressions remained reserved.


When she first arrived here and met Xiao Cheng for the first time, she felt his aura was cold-blooded and ruthless.


From Xiao Cheng's decisive act of breaking Bai Chaojie's wrist without hesitation, one could see the cruelty and brutality deep within him.


Subsequently, every time he acted, it was with extreme force, as if human life meant nothing to him.


Xiao Cheng's methods were undoubtedly brutal, yet Bai Lu didn't conclude that he was inherently evil.


Because he didn't act without reason. It was those people who made mistakes and needed to be taught a lesson, and he dealt with them bluntly.


It all stemmed from his experience in the underworld. He had been through too much, and he found action more effective than words.


Thus, he developed a character of resorting to violence when faced with problems, which had nothing to do with his ability to discern right from wrong.


The most profound change Bai Lu felt was when Xiao Cheng withdrew from the organization of the big boss, started doing laundry and cooking at home, operating a digger to build houses, and going to the mountains to pay respects to ancestors during the Qingming Festival.


Everything proved that Xiao Cheng had truly returned to being an ordinary person, willingly earning money in a plain manner, albeit slowly and through physical labor.


However, Xiao Cheng didn't give up his business completely and return to his old ways. He was a person with flesh, blood, and thoughts.


This made Bai Lu trust him a little more regarding his involvement in the events.


"Later, you gradually improved. From daily life, I felt that you were not a person who couldn't distinguish right from wrong. I began to relax my guard against you..."


Bai Lu said she could rest assured, but Xiao Cheng knew that she wasn't completely at ease or fully trusted him.


Otherwise, there wouldn't have been the moments of closeness and distance between them.


Somehow, something made her suspicious again.


Xiao Cheng suppressed his impatience and asked softly, "After you relaxed, what doubts do you still have?"


Perhaps his gentle tone made Bai Lu more relaxed. In a state where she answered every question, she became more detailed and clear, "Because you opened a shop in Pingcheng."


"Encountering the people from the big boss again, you reverted to your previous ways of dealing with things. When interests were touched, you directly called your brothers for revenge, settling scores with blood."


"I can't judge whether you will solve other matters like this in the future... or when my father and grandfather handle other cases, if the people on trial might affect your interests, whether you will collaborate with others and retaliate in this way again..."


Hu Biao was the most obvious example.


It was normal for Bai Lu to have concerns.


Xiao Cheng couldn't defend his past actions or the impulsive emotions.


The only thing he could confirm was that when stopped by Bai Lu's impulsiveness, he wouldn't resist.


It was a sincere promise from his heart, the first commitment in his life: "I won't harm your family."


Seeing Xiao Cheng's resolute and decisive demeanor, Bai Lu felt slightly relieved, "I want to believe you."


Wanting to believe was not the same as believing.


Xiao Cheng sighed lightly, feeling helpless. He didn't know how much damage that person from that world had caused, making her guard so heavy.


But he wasn't that person.


He didn't want to be blamed by anyone.


"I'm not him."


As soon as Xiao Cheng finished speaking, Bai Lu decisively rebutted, "You are."


"It's you from twenty-three years later."


Xiao Cheng was startled, looking at the serious face of the girl, he realized where "she" came from.


He also understood why she knew so much.


"I didn't open a shop in Pingcheng before?" Xiao Cheng wanted to solve the problem from the root.


Bai Lu nodded, "You developed your career in another province."


Xiao Cheng: "Which province?"


Bai Lu hesitated for a moment, showing reluctance to answer this question.


However, unable to resist the state of answering every question, she said the two words before Xiao Cheng could change the topic.


"Beijing."


Xiao Cheng could sense her conflicted hesitation but wasn't sure what caused her conflict.


"You don't want me to develop my career in Pingcheng?"


Bai Lu subconsciously shook her head, "No, it's good that you're developing your career in Pingcheng."


Bai Lu was indeed surprised when she learned that Xiao Cheng was going to open a shop in Pingcheng. His path was different from the one he took in her previous life.


When Xiao Cheng unexpectedly encountered people from the big boss and confronted Hu Biao, she indeed overturned her judgment.


But she was more pleased than anything.


Bai Lu did have selfish desires. She didn't want Xiao Cheng to develop his career in another province or set foot in Beijing.


As long as Xiao Cheng didn't go to Beijing, the probability of encountering those people and events would greatly decrease.


She wouldn't have to meet that person again.


There wouldn't be a possibility of participating in the "plan" again.


She just didn't know if Xiao Cheng opening a shop in Pingcheng was to earn startup capital to develop elsewhere, or if he intended to expand and settle down with this shop.


She hoped it was the latter. Whether before or after drinking, the only difference was hesitation before drinking and straightforwardness after, asking questions when she wanted.


"Why did you choose to open a shop in Pingcheng?"


Xiao Cheng slightly tightened his arms around the girl, feeling her presence, and responded to her questions promptly.


"I want Lu Lu to have a home to return to."


Bai Lu was momentarily stunned, a mist suddenly shrouded her eyes, blurring the mix of doubts and expectations, causing a sour and swollen feeling.


Her voice choked up unintentionally, "How did you know that my family isn't here?"


Xiao Cheng gently patted her back, soothing her emotions, and spoke softly, "You said it in your dreams."


"You always call for Mom, Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, Grandpa, Grandma, cousin, uncle..."


"You have many family members, but none of them are here."


You can only reunite with your family in dreams.


You can only go home in dreams.


Xiao Cheng said, "From now on, this place is your home."


Bai Lu wasn't one to cry, but Xiao Cheng's words struck a chord deep in her heart. His gentle pat on her back, the warmth and safety in his embrace, caused tears to well up in her eyes unintentionally.


A drop of tear fell, wetting his chest, falling onto his steadily beating heart, comforting her face with warmth once again.


She didn't want to push him away, only wanted to hold him tightly. This was the second home in her life, a home from the 1990s.


After drifting for so long, she finally found a harbor.


Xiao Cheng slowly pulled up the blanket, covering the soft shoulders trembling in his arms, slightly turned sideways, shielding the little face buried deep in his chest from the light, gently patting to lull her to sleep.


One by one, the rhythm of his gentle pats turned into a lullaby.


As her breath gradually calmed down, the warmth in his arms eased the burning sensation caused by the hot tears.


The gentle patting continued for a while before Xiao Cheng slowly let go, preparing to turn off the light and sleep.


However, as soon as his hand lifted, the girl who should have been asleep in his arms suddenly raised her small face, staring straight at him.


"Ah Cheng!"


The lazy and soft tone carried a hint of excitement.


Xiao Cheng lowered his eyes slightly, meeting the bright eyes that had been washed with clear water, and the smiling face of the girl.


His heartbeat inexplicably accelerated, "What's up?"


Bai Lu suddenly cupped his face, "You're doing well! I really like you! I really want to kiss you!"


Xiao Cheng: "..."


It's this sentence again, trying to deceive people.


He wouldn't believe it again!






















Chapter 272: Getting Sick

Bai Lu looked at Xiao Cheng's expressionless face, tightly pursed lips, and calm eyes, decisively leaned forward, and quickly kissed him.

Whether it was her heavy head, her heavy body, or the wrong angle, she didn't control the force well the first time she took the initiative and accidentally bumped into him.

Xiao Cheng, who was in a state of disbelief and anticipation, felt a sudden pain at the corner of his mouth, and his mind went blank.

For a brief moment, Xiao Cheng's deep gaze was stunned, his pupils contracted slightly, and a look of surprise filled his eyes, unable to conceal his excitement.

The girl's charming smile enlarged in his eyes, her long curly eyelashes blinked, her delicate eyebrows curved like crescent moons, and a sweet fragrance enveloped him as her soft lips touched his, exploding like fireworks in his mouth.

Like an electric current spreading from his lips to his limbs, from his restless pulse to his nerve endings.

His mind, which had stopped thinking, was shocked by a bullet, dancing with surprise, pleasure, joy, contentment... all fluttering in his mind, Xiao Cheng was clear-headed in an instant.

But the next moment, Bai Lu stepped back.

In the eyes of Xiao Cheng, who expected more but was disappointed, she naturally nestled back into his arms.

Holding him tightly, her face against his chest: "You're so warm here, I like it."

Xiao Cheng suddenly suppressed the urge to continue, his eyes narrowed, suppressing the fiery flames.

Holding her tightly, the voice from the depths of his throat became softer: "What's your name?"

Bai Lu suddenly looked up at him, a smile emerging from her heart: "Bai Lu."

"Bai as white, Lu as dew."

"Bai Lu..." Xiao Cheng murmured softly, the name that jumped on the tip of his heart.

Bai Lu smiled with her brows and eyes: "Ah Cheng."

Xiao Cheng chuckled, "Lu Lu."

"Ah Cheng..."

"Lu Lu..."

...

As dawn approached, Xiao Cheng was awakened by the warm temperature in his arms. Opening his eyes, he saw a pale-faced girl with white lips, a smooth forehead covered in fine cold sweat, furrowed brows, and an abnormal redness on her pale cheeks.

Her body alternated between hot and cold, twisting uncomfortably, sometimes saying "cold" and sometimes "hot."

Xiao Cheng reached out to feel her forehead, the abnormal heat was evident, showing signs of fever.

He immediately got up to take her to the hospital.

Xiao Wei, who had just opened the door, saw this and quickly followed.

"What's wrong with Sister-in-law?"

Xiao Cheng stepped out with long strides, solemnly leaving a message: "She's sick, you make breakfast for yourself and go to school."

Xiao Wei wanted to ask more, but the tall figure outside the door had already walked away, disappearing quickly at the street corner.

Why did Sister-in-law suddenly get sick? Was it because she drank last night and fought with Big Brother?

But before he went back, Big Brother was still normal, not like he was when he was drunk before.

He wasn't asking Sister-in-law to help him find clothes, and if she didn't help, he wouldn't get angry.

Before he went back to his room, he didn't hear Big Brother and Sister-in-law quarreling loudly, so he went back to bed.

Did they have a dispute after he fell asleep?

Xiao Wei stood at the door, feeling guilty.

It was all because he went to bed too early. If he had been like before, when Big Brother was drunk, he would have quietly opened the door and eavesdropped and peeked, and when all the noise disappeared, he would go back to his room.

Then this wouldn't have happened.

Big Brother's face was so tense just now, Sister-in-law must be very seriously ill, maybe even life-threatening.

Xiao Wei felt guilty and couldn't even eat breakfast, let alone go to school.

But thinking that Big Brother and Sister-in-law hadn't eaten breakfast yet, he had no appetite and immediately ran back to the kitchen.

The hospital had seen Xiao Cheng by many doctors. Seeing his anxious face and carrying someone in, they immediately arranged for an examination.

After a series of tests, Bai Lu's condition was determined as a high fever of 39.5 degrees, and alcohol poisoning was preliminarily ruled out.

The doctor's words were that Bai Lu had a special physique and was extremely sensitive to alcohol. However, it was not a reaction to all alcohol. Different types of alcohol entering Bai Lu's body would have different reactions: some had no reaction, some made her normal drunk, some made her fall into a deep sleep, some made her overly excited, some made her lose memory, and now this sudden high fever reaction.

Such reactions were diverse.

It could be said to be alcohol allergy, but it could also be said not to be, as the reactions were targeted.

After receiving the antipyretic injection and the medicine, Xiao Cheng took Bai Lu home. She didn't like hospitals.

Even though she hadn't woken up yet, as soon as she entered the hospital, she began to frown, struggling in his arms and on the hospital bed until she left the hospital, gradually calming down.

As soon as she returned to the bed at home, she relaxed her furrowed brow as if finally at ease, and seemed to fall into a deep sleep.

Xiao Cheng fetched a basin of water and went back to the room, soaking a towel and wiping Bai Lu's forehead, face, neck...

Perhaps too focused, his attention was all on Bai Lu, and he didn't notice his surroundings. After wiping for a while, he got up to change the water, only then did he see a small figure standing at the door holding a bowl of porridge.

Xiao Cheng frowned, "Why haven't you gone to school yet."

It was already late, if he didn't leave now, he would be late for school even if he run.

Xiao Wei didn't enter the room, standing at the door holding the porridge bowl, looking at Bai Lu lying motionless on the bed, and at Xiao Cheng's cold face, he replied softly, "I made breakfast."

"Put it on the table and go to school." Xiao Cheng crossed the small figure at the door and went out to change the water.

Xiao Wei didn't move.

Continued holding the bowl without moving, waiting for Xiao Cheng to come back before saying, "I want to go in and see Sister-in-law."

In his childish voice, there was worry and nervousness, and his small face showed a determined resignation.

Xiao Cheng frowned and responded with a "Hmm."

Xiao Wei followed in, stood by the bed, watched Xiao Cheng take the towel to wipe the small beads of water from Bai Lu's forehead, and as soon as he finished, more would appear, and he would wipe again.

Repeatedly, the movements were very light, Bai Lu's eyes were tightly closed, her usually rosy complexion somewhat pale.

"When will Sister-in-law get better?" Xiao Wei clenched the bottom of the bowl, his voice trembling slightly.

Xiao Cheng said, "When she wakes up."

Xiao Wei asked again, "When will she wake up?"

Xiao Cheng frowned, his voice cold as he swept a glance at him, "She'll wake up when she wakes up, go to your school."

Xiao Wei was used to Big Brother's coldness, even though his scalp tingled, he was afraid, but he had to refuse.

"I want to wait at home until Sister-in-law wakes up."

Xiao Cheng didn't even bother with the coldness, threw the towel into the basin, and snatched the porridge bowl from Xiao Wei's hand.

Staring at him coldly.

The oppressive sense of majesty was like a mountain, pressing Xiao Wei breathless, his small body couldn't help trembling.

After hesitating for a long time, he had to speak his mind, "I'm afraid I won't see Sister-in-law when I come back."

The pressure suddenly stopped.

Xiao Cheng placed the bowl on the table in front of the bed, and calmly said, "She'll wake up later."

Xiao Wei had never seen Big Brother so easy to talk to, even explaining, and his courage couldn't help but grow.

"Then I'll wait for Sister-in-law to wake up before going to school."
























Chapter 273: Taking Care

Xiao Cheng's patience wore thin: "Go to school!"

Xiao Wei: "..."

Every time the word "go" was uttered, it signaled Big Brother's irritation. Not listening would surely result in being thrown out.

But, Sister-in-law still hadn't woken up.

Xiao Wei didn't know what illness Bai Lu had. The most profound "illness" in his memory was when his mother vomited black blood, lying motionless in bed.

That day was like today, sunny and bright. Before going out, his mother was fine, but when she returned, she fell ill...

Illness took her away forever...

Xiao Wei didn't want to see Bai Lu like that, didn't want to come back to see Bai Lu sick. As long as she didn't leave the house, everything would be fine.

His small frame stood firm in place.

Xiao Cheng and Xiao Wei's thoughts didn't connect. Xiao Cheng didn't know what he was thinking. Seeing him stubbornly refusing to leave, repeatedly disobedient, Xiao Cheng reached out and grabbed the back of his collar.

"Cough... water... water..."

A weak, helpless cough suddenly sounded from the bed, interrupting the tense atmosphere in the room.

Xiao Wei's collar was loosened, his feet touched the ground, his eyes widened, staring fixedly at the girl on the bed.

Hoping that those closed gentle eyes would open.

The water cup on the bedside table had been taken away by Xiao Cheng. He helped Bai Lu sit up against the piled pillows and gave her water.

Water seemed like the source of life. As it touched her lips, Bai Lu's vitality finally awakened. Her tightly closed eyes slowly opened, her scattered pupils gradually focused.

The first face that came into view was Xiao Cheng's usual expression, slightly relaxed brows.

Next, with nervousness and worry written on his face, and anticipation and joy shining in his eyes, it was Xiao Wei.

Bai Lu's mind was fuzzy, her stomach uncomfortable, her limbs heavy, and she felt weak all over.

Feeling uncomfortable all over, even smiling was difficult. In order not to worry the two, she could only muster all her strength to squeeze out a faint, gentle smile.

"I might have caught a little cold, I'll be fine soon, you don't need to worry."

Xiao Cheng didn't speak, took the empty cup to refill it with water.

Xiao Wei clenched and then loosened his fingers, looking at Bai Lu's face, and said softly, "But your complexion looks terrible."

He added an explanation, "Not that you're not pretty, but your pale complexion looks like a serious illness."

Xiao Wei had never seen Bai Lu so fragile before.

Bai Lu didn't know what was wrong with her either. Her throat felt bitter and astringent, and there was a bit of a prickling pain.

She tried to speak, but it turned into a cough.

Whenever she coughed, she felt thirsty. The water cup was in Xiao Cheng's hands, and she wanted it but couldn't express it, unable to even lift her hand.

Fortunately, the big guy always seemed to understand her. With a cough, he knew what she wanted.

The water cup was handed directly to her lips.

Grateful, Bai Lu glanced at Xiao Cheng and finally managed to speak after drinking the water, "I might be hungry."

"When you're hungry, your complexion looks terrible. You'll feel better after eating something later."

Without waiting for Xiao Wei to bring the porridge bowl from the table, Bai Lu suddenly asked, "Why haven't you gone to school yet?"

"The sun is already shining on my face. At this time, you should be at school. Why are you still at home?"

Even though Bai Lu's voice was weak, her tone held no blame, only incomprehension and puzzlement. Xiao Wei's previously certain reason sounded less confident when spoken.

"You're sick, and I want to wait until you wake up before I go." His voice was as feeble as a mosquito.

Bai Lu was slightly stunned, then realized that Xiao Wei must have been left with a shadow from his mother's death.

She had been here for quite some time now, getting along well with Xiao Cheng and Xiao Wei. Xiao Wei must have felt dependent on her and afraid of her sudden departure, which was normal.

Bai Lu wanted to pat the little guy's head, but she had no strength, so she could only use a gentle voice and smile instead.

"I'm fine. Look, I woke up fine. I'm not in any pain. I'm just weak because I haven't eaten in a long time. I'll recover after eating something later. Don't worry, just ask your brother."

Xiao Cheng snorted, unwilling to speak.

Stubborn as a donkey in front of him, but meek as a lamb in front of Bai Lu.

He didn't want to bother with stubborn donkeys.

Xiao Wei, at this moment, seemed to realize the exalted position of his big brother in his mind. He looked at his big brother eagerly, his small face showing a repentant attitude, waiting for a response.

Xiao Cheng only gave him a cold, solitary back, refusing to communicate, refusing to acknowledge.

Bai Lu's hand reached out from under the blanket, just next to Xiao Cheng's hand. Unable to lift it, she moved it closer.

Her pinky finger was covered by the soft warmth, and Xiao Cheng subconsciously lowered his gaze, seeing a slender, soft, pure white index finger resting on his pinky, pressing it lightly.

The touch was so weak, almost nonexistent.

Xiao Cheng lowered his eyes, then raised them again, sweeping a cold glance at the small figure bowing in apology by the bedside.

"Waking up is good enough."

Xiao Wei didn't wait for Big Brother to dismiss him with a "Go to school" again. He bid farewell to Big Brother and Sister-in-law, rushed back to his room to pick up his school bag, and dashed off to school in a hurry.

No doubt, he would be late.

The only thing he could hope for was whether the teacher would keep him in detention or assign extra homework—poor kid!

Bai Lu sympathized with the little flower for three seconds before turning to Xiao Cheng, "What's wrong with me?"

Xiao Cheng reached out to touch the girl's forehead, the temperature was normal, "You had a fever from drinking, but it's gone now."

As he spoke, he picked up the bowl of porridge from the table and spoon-fed her.

Xiao Wei had made egg congee, which was rich in protein and nutrients, perfect for her to replenish her strength.

Xiao Cheng decided to let the stubborn donkey off the hook.

However, when he spoon-fed Bai Lu a mouthful of egg congee, she shook her head.

"I don't want to eat."

Xiao Cheng was puzzled, "Didn't you say you were hungry earlier?"

Bai Lu looked at the egg congee and sighed, "I can't eat."

The egg congee smelled delicious, and she wanted to eat, but her stomach disagreed, churning at the thought.

Clearly delicious, but she didn't know why she felt nauseous, Bai Lu turned her face away to avoid the scent.

Xiao Cheng put down the spoon, placed the bowl back on

the table, and asked softly, "What do you want to eat?"

Bai Lu shook her head again, her mind drifting off to sleep, "I don't want to eat anything."

Seeing her dozing off after their conversation with Xiao Wei had exhausted all her strength, Xiao Cheng gently helped her lie down and covered her with the blanket.

"Do you want some wonton?"

Bai Lu wanted to eat, but her stomach didn't, and neither did her mind. Just the thought of wonton made her stomach churn.

It was obvious that she would vomit after eating.

She had to refuse firmly, "I don't want to eat."

Seeing the pain of giving up in her eyes, Xiao Cheng didn't insist further and didn't mention anything else.

"Then rest for a while."

Bai Lu had exhausted all her strength in her conversation with Xiao Wei earlier. Now, she felt lost in drowsiness and couldn't remember to ask about the wine. She just wanted to sleep.

With a lazy "Mm," she closed her eyes.

Her faint breath soon became even and long.

Xiao Cheng gently touched the girl's forehead to check her temperature, worry floating in his eyes. If she couldn't eat anything, how would she manage?

Maybe she should take some medicine first.



















Chapter 274: Change


Xiao Cheng had never drunk medicine in his life nor taken care of anyone. He thought that after Bai Lu took the medicine, her body should improve a bit, and she would feel hungry.


He took the prescribed Chinese medicine and went to the kitchen to brew it.


At first, it was fine, brewing medicine was similar to cooking porridge, there wasn't much difference, just pay attention to the timing.


As time passed, the medicinal aroma from the small porcelain pot became stronger, emitting an unbearable smell.


The entire kitchen was filled with the scent of Chinese medicine, pungent and unpleasant, Xiao Cheng couldn't describe the smell.


He didn't know if Bai Lu could stomach it.


Thinking of the culprit behind Bai Lu's current condition, Xiao Cheng couldn't suppress his irritability.


He made a phone call to the city.


Zhang San and Li Si received the summons from the boss, feeling both anxious and surprised, they hurried over.


Could it be that the wine from last night had an effect, furthering the relationship between the boss and his wife, for which they should be thanked?


Actually, this was what they should do, there was no need for thanks, Zhang San and Li Si felt delighted.


Their mood was beyond words as they came all the way here, feeling as if they were walking on clouds.


Until they arrived at Xiao Cheng's house, just as they knocked on the door to enter the courtyard, they were almost driven back by the nauseating smell of Chinese medicine.


Seeing Xiao Cheng's grim and cold expression at the kitchen door, their steps were halted.


Their elated mood instantly plummeted.


Knowing that Bai Lu was sick, Zhang San and Li Si felt even more desolate, it's over, it's over.


They were walking into the gates of hell.


Strive for leniency, Zhang San immediately confessed, "Brother Cheng, we didn't intend to harm Sister-in-law, those two bottles of fruit wine were gifts from the Tian Shang Nightclub boss for the opening."


"I didn't know Sister-in-law couldn't drink alcohol, I thought she just didn't like it. I thought the wine from Tian Shang's boss would be good, so I wanted you and Sister-in-law to taste it together. I didn't expect this to happen."


Li Si sincerely added, "My mother had a head injury when she was young, her memory is poor, she doesn't remember our birth dates, only remembers that I was born on a rainy day and Zhang San was born on a sunny day, so we celebrate our birthdays like that. Yesterday was a sunny day, I didn't lie to you..."


Yesterday, everyone drank the fruit wine on the dragon boat, and nothing happened except for Bai Lu getting sick.


Zhang San and Li Si were also puzzled, could it be that the wine only harmed girls?


If they had made a blunder, they were doomed.


Xiao Cheng heard that it was related to the Tian Shang boss again, his face as cold as frost, his brows furrowed.


The first time was Wang Hao, the second time was him, the third time was Bai Lu, was it coincidence or intentional?


Every time the gifts were reasonable, the wine was fine, but whenever they drank it, accidents occurred.


"Is there any more of Tian Shang's wine in the shop?"


Zhang San truthfully shook his head, "There were only five bottles in total, last time Wang Hao and the others took three bottles back, and we took two bottles this time, they're all gone, the rest of the liquor in the shop was sent by other bosses or factions."


Other gifts were opened after they were received, and nothing happened.


However, Li Si believed that since Bai Lu got sick after drinking the wine, there must be a problem with Tian Shang's fruit wine.


With a fierce momentum, he declared, "Let's go find Tian Shang Nightclub and settle the score! Get revenge for Sister-in-law!"


Zhang San also clenched his fists in agreement, "Right! Sister-in-law got sick after drinking the fruit wine, it's definitely related to them!"


According to their rules of conduct with Xiao Cheng all along, whether it was giving gifts or apologizing, with good intentions or malice, if they caused suffering, they must repay double.


Now, Bai Lu was Xiao Cheng's wife, she was Sister-in-law, and she was also part of them.


If she suffered, they had to hold the culprit accountable!

If they couldn't, they still had to demand an explanation!


If it were in the past, Xiao Cheng would have taken them with him without a second thought, but thinking of last night and Bai Lu's reluctance towards him, he hesitated.


After a moment of hesitation, he suppressed his irritability and changed his mind.


In a cold tone, he ordered, "Let someone check Tian Shang's background and their liquor first."


Zhang San and Li Si, who were prepared to go home and fetch their big knives, were suddenly bewildered by the indirect order.


After being cut by a cold knife, they immediately nodded, "Understood, we'll have the brothers who often go to Tian Shang keep an eye out and investigate the matter first."


The medicinal ingredients in the kitchen pot were still boiling, emitting waves of hot steam, Xiao Cheng's face remained cold.


"Get out."


Zhang San and Li Si retreated after their narrow escape.


No matter how you looked at it, Bai Lu drank the wine they brought, which led to her suffering.


Xiao Cheng had shown mercy by not punishing them severely; if they didn't leave, they would be asking for trouble.


The doctor instructed that the medicinal ingredients should be boiled until the bowl's worth, Xiao Cheng boiled until the whole kitchen was filled with the smell of medicine, and the dosage in the pot met the standard before pouring it into the bowl.


Not too much, not too little, one and a half bowls.


Xiao Cheng divided it into two bowls, leaving one in the pot and taking one back to the room to feed Bai Lu.


Unexpectedly, just as he reached the door, the motionless Bai Lu on the bed suddenly frowned and rolled over to vomit.


She struggled to speak as she vomited, "Don't come over..."


Xiao Cheng: "..."


Was it that unbearable?

It must be the medicine!


Bai Lu hadn't eaten anything in the morning, only drinking water.


Since she had nothing to vomit, it was all water.


The little bit of rosiness that had just returned to her face from sleeping vanished, leaving her pale again.


She lay weakly on the bed, unable to get up, and when she tried to, her eyes were misty with water, full of pain from the recent injury and vulnerability.


Xiao Cheng instantly felt like he was the source of all evil, guilty of a heinous crime, and without a second thought, he took the medicine bowl away.


He went to take a cold shower repeatedly, washing away the medicinal smell from his body, and changed into clean clothes.


Only then did he bring a basin of water back to the room.


Bai Lu couldn't get out of bed, she couldn't sleep after vomiting, so she leaned against the head of the bed, staring at the doorway.


Seeing Xiao Cheng return, she breathed a sigh of relief, pointing to the dirty floor under the bed, apologizing, "I dirtied the floor."


"It's okay, I'll clean it up."


Xiao Cheng placed the basin on the table, wrung out a towel, and handed it to Bai Lu, "You clean your face first."


After saying that, he turned and left, coming back with a broom and mop to clean the room, washing the dirty cement floor clean.


His face remained as stern as usual, without a hint of impatience, his actions devoid of the resentful swipes one might expect, instead, they were light and quiet, cleansing away all the dirt without a sound.


Bai Lu's impression of Xiao Cheng was once again refreshed; his patience was not as scarce as she had remembered.


The disgust and repulsion that ordinary people would show had never appeared on his face or in his eyes, not even for a split second.


Even if she hadn't remembered what happened last night yet, Bai Lu was confident that Xiao Cheng wouldn't do anything to her, even if she did something wrong while drunk, he would still forgive her.


Like now, silently tolerant.


Seeing this, Bai Lu's confused eyes regained some determination, driving away her hesitation.


Until...


Xiao Cheng brought the medicine bowl back in.


Bai Lu instantly collapsed, covering her eyes, ears, and nose, burrowing back into the blanket, "Don't come over."


"If you come over again, I'll vomit for you to see."

















Chapter 275: Feeding Medicine


Xiao Cheng looked at the lump curled up in the big bed, hesitated for a moment, but didn't leave.


He placed the medicine bowl on the table in front of the bed, went to open the window to its maximum, allowing the wind to blow in without obstruction.


Then he sat back by the bedside, stretched out his long arm, and easily lifted the bundled blanket from the bed.


Without uncovering the blanket, he gently patted it twice and said, "You have to take the medicine to get better."


The blanket moved slightly, and a muffled voice came from within, "Didn't I already get an injection?"


Although Bai Lu had been in a daze all along after being taken to the hospital and coming back, she remembered clearly the sudden pain from the needle piercing her arm. The pain was etched vividly in her mind.


When she woke up in the morning, too weak to roll up her sleeves, after vomiting, she had a bit of strength back. She didn't hesitate to roll up her sleeves to check her arm and indeed found needle marks.


She had been injected while she was unconscious.


Xiao Cheng had said she had a fever after getting drunk, so the injection was definitely a fever reducer. Since her fever was gone, she shouldn't need to take any more medicine.


However, Xiao Cheng, standing outside the blanket, said, "If you don't take the medicine, you won't be able to eat."


Bai Lu: "..."


Was there a connection between the two?


She had never heard that taking medicine would help her eat. Was this another misdiagnosis by some mediocre doctor?


Although, for the sake of getting better sooner, she might as well give it a try.


After all, it was medicine made by the big boss himself.


After some psychological preparation under the blanket, Bai Lu slowly peeked her head out, her two eyes cautiously emerging.


Not surprisingly, she met Xiao Cheng's eyes directly. She smiled awkwardly, trying to be polite, and then slowly showed her whole head.


Staring at the medicine bowl in his hand, she hesitated and then couldn't help but look away.


"This medicine has a very unpleasant smell, and it must be very bitter to drink."


Chinese medicine was indeed beneficial for the body, regulating it and addressing issues at the root, nourishing it.


But the taste was quite extraordinary, with elements of sourness, sweetness, bitterness, spiciness, and saltiness, making it almost unbearable.


Xiao Cheng watched the girl avert her face to avoid the smell, then glance back at him with a struggling expression. He couldn't help but smirk, scooping up a small spoonful of the dark brown
medicine with a porcelain spoon.


He blew gently on it before offering it to her.


"How about you try a sip first?"


Bai Lu couldn't believe it and turned her head, utterly stunned. "Since when was there a practice of tasting medicine?"


Wasn't the usual procedure to gulp it down in one go or reluctantly drink it while pinching one's nose?


Xiao Cheng's method not only deviated from the norm but continued to do so. "Try a sip first. If you really can't drink it, then you don't have to."


What a surprise!


Bai Lu took a sip and then immediately spat it out...


Before she could spit it out completely, a piece of candy was stuffed into her mouth, filling it with a strong, sweet aroma.


—It was malt sugar.


Bai Lu chewed on it, and the bitterness in her mouth was suppressed. The urge to vomit disappeared instantly.


Before she could say thank you, a jar of fresh fruit juice caught her eye, the aroma of orange juice filling her senses.


"This juice... seems somewhat familiar." A memory flashed quickly through her mind but slipped away before she could grasp it.


Seeing Bai Lu lost in thought, Xiao Cheng recalled her medical condition and explained, understanding everything.


"This is from last night's night tour of Pingcheng. When the dragon boat entered Pingcheng, the Pingcheng guards gave rewards to the champion team, along with seasonal fruits. Every year, the champion team of the dragon boat race receives it. The fruits were consumed last night, and each person got two cans of juice, which could be taken home if not finished."


After hearing Xiao Cheng's explanation, Bai Lu felt a tinge of regret. There must have been many interesting things happening last night.


But she couldn't recall anything, only remembering the time spent sightseeing on the boat and then eating the big King's Zongzi.


And then nothing.


It was probably due to the fever after drinking. Her mind was still a bit clouded, but she would probably remember later.


Bai Lu took the fruit juice from Xiao Cheng's hand and took a sip. It was sweet with a hint of bitterness, the most original taste of juice, without any additives.


The juice was powerful, sweeping away the taste of medicine upon entering her mouth, dominating and eradicating the last bit of bitterness.


Suddenly, Bai Lu had an idea and looked at Xiao Cheng with sparkling eyes. "I have a good way to take medicine."


Xiao Cheng scooped up a small spoonful of medicine and paused it near her mouth. "What is it?"


Bai Lu handed the juice can she had struggled to grip back to him, her face full of excitement as she suggested, "You pour out the juice inside, put the medicine in, and trick me into drinking juice!"


Xiao Cheng: "…"


Was there a method like this?

For a moment, Xiao Cheng felt that Bai Lu's excitement was at least ninety percent water.


But in the end, her bright eyes and earnest expression made him believe, against his will.


Perhaps this method might work.


After all, it was her suggestion.


Xiao Cheng took a new bowl, went to the table by the window, turned his back, and poured out all the juice from the can.


Then he poured the bitter and unpleasant medicine into it.


When he turned around with the can of "juice," he found Bai Lu watching him with half-open eyes, her focused gaze likely witnessing the entire process of medicine switching.


Could he still fool her?


"Lulu, come over here, I want you to drink juice," Bai Lu stared at Xiao Cheng's hand holding the juice can, her eyes gleaming.


Xiao Cheng: "…"


It seemed like he could still fool her.


Bai Lu took the juice can with both hands, brainwashing herself that it contained delicious orange juice.


She drank it down in one gulp, the sour, sweet, bitter, spicy, and salty taste of delicious orange juice.


After drinking the juice, Bai Lu began to feel drowsy again, not because she wanted to sleep, but because her mind wanted to sleep.


Heavy... heavy... sinking...


"Lulu?"


Xiao Cheng woke her up a second before she lay down. Seeing her only half-open eyes looking at him in confusion, he handed her the egg porridge he had just heated up from the kitchen and spooned it to her mouth, "Eat this before you sleep."


Bai Lu's descending movement suddenly stopped. "Does that mean I can sleep until I wake up naturally after drinking the porridge?"


Xiao Cheng nodded lightly, "Yes." I'll call you for dinner later.


With a definite answer, Bai Lu was happy and immediately took the porridge bowl, finishing it in three or two sips.


Finally, her whole body was exhausted, and she fell into a deep sleep.


Xiao Cheng covered her with the blanket, checked her temperature by placing his hand on her forehead, and confirmed that it was normal.


Then he carried the bowl out.


Gently closing the door.


When Xiao Wei came back from school, he went straight to Bai Lu's room and bumped into a pair of long legs as hard as iron.