Reborn as the Blissful Wife in the countryside Chapter 1234: Unwilling to Accept

After a brief silence, Gu Jin’an voiced, "Your Second Sister still harbors a desire for all the gold and silver mines in the world, but that is merely a fantasy. We must always remember, possessions in this realm are not ours simply by wishing for them."

Upon hearing this, Brother Cheng felt a pang of sadness. He turned his head to face Gu Jin’an and questioned, "So, does this mean that even if Big Brother truly loves Third Sister, even if Big Brother tries his absolute hardest, Third Sister still won't marry Big Brother?"

Gu Jin’an gritted his teeth. This rascal truly knew how to strike at his brother's heart, though he had no choice but to nod in agreement. "That's right, under normal circumstances, that's how it is."

He was merely a farmer's son, while she was a noble lady born into a family of immense power and prestige, her clan at the zenith of its influence. Even if an exceptional circumstance allowed for a marriage beneath her station, it would never be his turn.

Unless something were to befall her.

Unless he were to achieve some sort of unparalleled, immortal merit.

Yet, even if it meant remaining unmarried for his entire life, he would never wish for misfortune to befall her. And by the time he could possibly attain such divine accomplishment, she would undoubtedly have already, as arranged by her elders, wedded into a suitable noble family, embracing the role of a devoted wife and mother.

Hearing this, Brother Cheng observed his older brother's expression and began to weep. An unbearable sorrow welled up within him, and he embraced Gu Jin’an, saying, "Big Brother, please don't cry. Big Brother will surely have all his wishes fulfilled."

Gu Jin’an, who had been feeling rather downcast, let out a laugh upon hearing this. "Who's crying? It's clearly you who's sniffling."

He then playfully teased him further, "I'm the one who can't get what I want, so what are you crying about? Truly useless."

Despite the taunting words, his heart felt a profound warmth. The little one who once resembled a scrawny kitten, easily startled by the slightest noise, had grown, now possessing the ability to offer him comfort.

"I don't know, I just feel a sadness in my heart and want to cry..." Brother Cheng still did not fully grasp the complexities of romantic love that was unattainable. However, he understood that if Big Brother could not marry Third Sister, he would undoubtedly suffer greatly. He did not wish to see Big Brother in pain.

Gu Jin’an smiled and wrapped his arms around Brother Cheng. "Don't be sad, Big Brother is alright."

He gently rubbed Brother Cheng’s back and imparted, "Remember, we are survivors who escaped famine and endured great catastrophes. For us, as long as it's not a matter of life and death, we can overcome it. To dwell endlessly on something we cannot possess would be a true disservice to all those who perished on the road during our flight from famine."

Others yearned for life but could not attain it; they met their end. Not only did they survive, but they also had sustenance, shelter, and the opportunity to learn. That was already a blessing; one should cultivate contentment.

But... deep down, he still couldn't bring himself to accept it!!

Gu Jin’an tightened his embrace around Brother Cheng... He was merely twenty, an age brimming with youthful passion and impulse. Even knowing the task was as arduous as ascending to the heavens, the inherent defiance within him compelled him to strive and reach for that exquisite flower blooming high in the celestial palace!

Brother Cheng felt a bit of discomfort from Gu Jin’an's firm grip and began to cry even more. Big Brother must be feeling incredibly unresigned; what could he do to assist Big Brother?

Perhaps he could...

"Don't do anything foolish. If you all act impulsively, you'll only bring about trouble. Just behave yourselves and follow instructions; attending class and returning home as usual – that alone is a tremendous help to Big Brother." Gu Jin’an released Brother Cheng, turned his body, and resumed wringing the water from his hair. "Things have been quite chaotic recently. Be cautious when traveling to and from school; do not fall into the hands of wicked men. Otherwise, Big Brother would have to go to great lengths to rescue you, and that would surely exhaust me to death."

Brother Cheng replied, "Big Brother, please don't worry. I know martial arts. Brother San Lang even gifted me a Dagger along with a bow and arrows, and he has arranged for protection for us. We will not encounter any mishaps. Even if we run into wicked men, we will flee. We will absolutely never allow ourselves to be captured."

Second Sister had advised that if you can win, then fight; if you cannot win, then run. Prioritize survival, and then seek retribution.

"Mm, you should heed your Second Sister's counsel on that; you must know how to retreat." Gu Jin’an ceased his actions and commented, "Alright, the sun is quite strong. Let it air dry for a bit; it will be dry soon enough."

"Okay." Brother Cheng responded obediently. As he turned his head back, he observed his big brother already leaning against the tree trunk behind the stone bench, eyes closed, resting.

Brother Cheng remained quiet, sitting patiently as his hair air-dried. He didn't want to disturb the moment.

Gu Jin’an, however, wasn't truly asleep. He was merely feigning slumber to avoid answering any more of Brother Cheng’s persistent inquiries.

About an hour later, Zezi's voice echoed from the courtyard entrance, announcing, "Young Master, Second Young Master, it's time for a meal."

Gu Jin’an's eyes fluttered open. He retrieved a ribbon from the stone table, skillfully tying Brother Cheng's hair before standing and saying, "Let's go."

As Brother Cheng trailed behind Gu Jin’an, he suddenly grasped his hand. In a hushed tone, he inquired, "Big Brother, what does it feel like to have a crush on a girl?"

Gu Jin’an paused, surprised. He glanced down at his younger brother and playfully tapped his head, remarking, "You're still so young, asking about such things? It's far too soon."

Brother Cheng rubbed his slightly sore head, explaining, "I'm just curious and wanted to ask."

He observed: Brother Luo Wu fancied Big Sister; San Lang had a fondness for Second Sister; and Big Brother adored Third Sister. It seemed all the older siblings in the family had someone special. Witnessing their fluctuating happiness and sorrow tied to these affections, he found himself deeply puzzled and intensely curious about the experience itself. Why did liking someone evoke such contrasting emotions?

"Besides," he added, puffing out his chest slightly, "I'm not that little anymore. I'll be nine when the twelfth month arrives."

Gu Jin’an replied, "You're only nine, you don't need to worry about this yet. Come ask me again when you turn fifteen."

He thought to himself: *This older brother hasn't even figured it out himself, and you're asking me? How am I supposed to explain?*

He quickly added, "Enough idle talk, let's hurry and eat. I need to depart right after."

Gu Jin’an offered Brother Cheng no opportunity to press further, instead pulling him along with a brisk pace.

Within the dining room, Mrs. Cui and Gu Jinxiu, accompanied by Zhu Chahua and Tong Xiaoxue, had already arranged a feast. A table laden with dishes awaited them, predominantly featuring sweet and sour flavors—Gu Jin’an’s absolute favorites.

"Good Brother An, come sit quickly. You haven't dined at home for many days. Today, we've prepared your preferred dishes; please eat plenty," Mrs. Cui personally emerged to greet him. Seeing her eldest son infrequently caused a pang of sadness in her heart.

"Alright, today I won't stop at eighty percent full. I'll eat until I'm completely stuffed." Gu Jin’an met Mrs. Cui's gaze, then looked at Gu Jinxiu, adding, "Mother, Big Sister, you've both worked hard."

Mrs. Cui responded, "It’s no trouble at all, it's just cooking a meal. How hard could it be?"

She reflected: In the past, even if she wished to prepare a good meal, there were no grains to be found. Now, with an abundance of ingredients, she could cook for them, yet Good Brother An was seldom home.

Gu Jin’an sensed the subtle sorrow in Mrs. Cui's eyes and offered comfort, "Mother, once things are stable at the new bank, your son will have more time to spend at home."

"Really?" Mrs. Cui's face lit up with joy. "Then, when that time comes, I'll reduce my shifts at the workshop and make delicious food for all of you at every meal."

"That sounds wonderful." Gu Jin’an refrained from telling Mrs. Cui to rest instead or to stop cooking for him. He understood that such activities were what brought her happiness.

"Enough chatter, hurry and eat. Don't delay Good Brother An's schedule," Third Grandma interjected, placing a chicken leg onto Gu Jin’an’s plate.

While chicken legs weren't his top preference, Gu Jin’an still ate it. He made sure to finish every dish his family had thoughtfully prepared for him.

By the conclusion of the meal, he felt so full that the food seemed to reach his throat. To top it off, a bowl of soup was poured down him. Only then, with Third Grandpa, Third Grandma, Mrs. Cui, and Gu Dashan watching with satisfaction, was he finally allowed to see them off at the door.

Gu Dashan, still concerned about the 'Evil Men,' voiced his worries. "Good Brother An, those Evil Men won't cause trouble again, will they? How about this: after you're done with your work at the bank, ask Brother Wu or San Lang to escort you to the government office. Staying overnight at the government office is much safer than at the bank."