Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s Chapter 2438 - 2374: There’s Someone in the Lake

Previously on Rebirth: Splendid Marriage in the 80s...

Chiang Xiao and Meng Xinian shared an intimate moment in the car, interrupted by Chen Yin's call from outside, prompting her to hurriedly exit while blushing with guilt. As the group arrived at the picturesque mountain forest for a grilling outing, Chiang Xiao linked arms with Wang Yi to explore a nearby hill, where they discovered a serene lake with a moored wooden boat that sparked their curiosity about other visitors. Meanwhile, Meng Xinian and Chen Yin unloaded supplies near the car and decided to set up the grill there, with Meng Xinian expressing his protective concern for Chiang Xiao despite her skills, treating her like a cherished treasure as they prepared the food.

After handling her private affairs, Wang Yi stepped out of the forest beside Chiang Xiao. She shot a look at the lake and wondered, "Should we head over to check it out anyway?"

Chiang Xiao paused for a moment before replying, "Sure, let's go take a peek. I seldom come across such gorgeous lake views, so we ought to soak in the sight."

Back home later, she could whip up a couple of paintings from the memory.

This was one of the main reasons for their excursion outside.

She'd planned in this life to journey far and wide, admiring stunning landscapes from all corners, yet until now, her travels had stuck to Country Y alone, with the bulk of her days cooped up at Mr. Wen Li's property and little actual exploring.

Therefore, stumbling on this lovely panorama now, she couldn't resist going closer to enjoy it.

A boat bobbed on the water—maybe it belonged to folks from a village nearby.

Climbing to the hill's peak, they peered back at Meng Xinian and Chen Yin, who were tied up with their own tasks, and held back any extra words.

As the pair made their way down the hill toward the lake's edge, it struck them increasingly how the water gleamed with crystal clarity, carrying a faint green shimmer. Lakeside wildflowers exploded in vivid hues, fluttering softly in the wind, utterly enchanting.

What's especially uncommon was the tiny beach right by the tied-up wooden boat, featuring soft, snowy-white sand.

"Doesn't this spot feel like a slice of heaven on earth?" Wang Yi burst out, "Xiao Chiang, got your sketchbook and paints with you? This would make an amazing painting!"

"I'd prefer snapping up this land and putting up a pair of two-floor white wood cottages. We could escape here for quick breaks to unwind and recharge."

Chiang Xiao got excited as well and chimed in, "If the lake's stocked with fish, it'd be perfect. We could set up fishing contests every so often!"

"That'd be awesome!" Wang Yi's gaze sparkled, "I wonder if this land's up for grabs?"

Chiang Xiao glanced at the wooden boat and spotted for the first time some clothing draped across it—rough military-green fabric, along with a pair of plain cloth shoes.

She yanked Wang Yi back several steps right away.

"Someone's in the lake."

Wang Yi jolted in shock.

"Gone for a swim maybe? Though the weather's still pretty chilly..."

The lake's waters had to feel freezing too, didn't they?

But a boat was there, meaning somebody was surely nearby.

They'd figured before that the owner had wandered off somewhere and would show up soon, without a clue that anyone might be dunked in the lake amid this cold snap.

Yet, as though echoing Wang Yi's guess, a splash rang out, and a head popped up from the depths near the boat.

The figure swiped water off their face and glanced their way.

The features showed a warm tan shade, sharp lines, and intense eyes, giving off a mixed-blood vibe.

Gauging the age from just a look was tricky.

Still, the bare shoulders and arms breaking the surface made it clear the person wore nothing on.

Chiang Xiao spun around at once to drag Wang Yi away.

"Hey! Ladies!"

The voice called after them.

Hearing that yell, Chiang Xiao shivered and whipped back around fast.

The guy had risen halfway when he hollered, truly shirtless up top; catching their turnaround, he plunged down quick, with just his head staying out.

"Got any guys in your group? If yes, mind fetching one to lend a hand? I've snagged a huge fish, but it's jammed in the rocks, and I can't yank it free solo. Bring help, and I'll split the fish half with you!"

Fishing?

Chiang Xiao met his gaze, locking on those deep eyes, drew in a steadying breath, and told him, "Yeah, hold on there."

Wang Yi clutched her arm, "Xiao Chiang, you really want the guys heading down to assist with the fish?"

"I do."