Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2309 - 2245: Raising Baibai to Be Plump and Healthy

Aunt Yang’s nose wrinkled with a wave of emotion upon hearing him admit he was starving.

While he was gravely ill, eating had been an impossibility. Even during moments of hunger, he never dared to voice it, knowing that such words would only cause those around him deeper pain—perhaps even more than the suffering he endured himself.

His wife, in particular, had been fasting right alongside him. For many days, their only sustenance had been a dreadfully watery porridge. In her efforts to prepare rice soup for him, she had practically consumed nothing but the thin liquid herself.

It was only last night that they finally enjoyed a substantial meal, and both could feel the spark of life returning to their weary bodies.

"Alright, alright," Aunt Yang said, stepping outside after finishing her hair. "Let’s head over. I’m eager to taste Xiao Chiang’s cooking again; I'm sure it will be wonderful."

Passing by the neighboring house, they spotted Chiang Xiao already setting out various side dishes and bowls of porridge.

The porridge she had prepared was a far cry from the mirror-thin rice soup they were used to; it possessed the perfect, hearty consistency.

"Big Master, Aunt Yang, you’ve arrived? How was your rest last night?"

Chiang Xiao inquired, her eyes carefully scanning them as she spoke.

Seeing that their complexions and spirits had visibly improved since the previous day, Chiang Xiao felt a sense of relief wash over her.

"I slept marvelously—never have I had such a deep, peaceful sleep."

Aunt Yang found herself growing increasingly fond of Chiang Xiao. It wasn't merely because the girl had miraculously helped her husband, but because of the impression she made during their first encounter.

She observed that Chiang Xiao didn't truly grasp the weight of their social status; her warmth was rooted entirely in Meng Xinian’s connection to her husband and their shared history.

Because Aunt Yang had once been kind to Meng Xinian, Chiang Xiao extended that same kindness to them, proving she cared for Meng Xinian deeply enough to be grateful on his behalf.

She was a child who clearly understood the difference between love and hate, yet maintained a heart full of compassion.

Judging by the events of the previous day, it was also clear she possessed a strong personality and firm boundaries. She wasn't some naive do-gooder who let others walk over her—a trait that reminded Aunt Yang of her younger self.

When that girl from the Long Family had come to demand she abandon Old Yang, she had unceremoniously driven them off with a broom.

She would only let go of something if she chose to; no one could force her hand.

While such a temperament had brought her many hardships and losses throughout her years, it was a source of deep-seated pride.

This was precisely why Aunt Yang felt such an affinity for Chiang Xiao.

She couldn't help but think the girl was extraordinary.

Her gaze shifted to the porridge and side dishes spread across the table.

Feeling a bit self-conscious, Chiang Xiao remarked, "Aunt Yang, my culinary skills aren't the best, and my repertoire is limited. Please, bear with it."

"It’s wonderful, truly! Isn’t porridge with these side dishes the perfect meal?"

Old Yang let out a chuckle. "Your aunt is actually a very talented cook; she can manage three or four tables of food all by herself. You ought to learn a few things from her over the next couple of days."

"Stop right there." Aunt Yang’s expression soured immediately at his suggestion. Pulling Chiang Xiao to her side, she said, "Don't pay him any mind. Why must women be the ones to master so many recipes? Can’t men cook as well? The next time Little Meng has a moment of leisure, I’ll pull him aside for lessons so he can cook for you instead!"

Chiang Xiao beamed with delight, casting a glance toward Meng Xinian.

"I’m just worried that a certain someone might not want to learn."

Meng Xinian reacted instantly, "I’ll learn, I’ll learn! Aunt Yang, make sure to teach me later. When Little and I get married and have children, I can take care of her during her postpartum recovery and make sure she’s healthy and well-fed."