Chapter 5

C5 – Wife

Upon reaching the village entrance, the camera crew was immediately captivated by an ancient stone archway.

The archway, blanketed in moss and weathered by the elements, showed significant signs of corrosion.

Once inside the village, the cameraman’s hands visibly shook.

“This place is full of ancient architecture.”

“These appear to be Ming Dynasty styles.”

“The preservation of these buildings is remarkable!”

“How have I never heard of such an intact ancient village?”

The entire crew was astounded.

They felt as though they had stumbled upon a hidden treasure!

“Walking here is like stepping back in time. It’s incredible!”

Lin Luqin hopped around excitedly.

Zhao Yuegu nodded in agreement.

He had felt the same upon his arrival, almost believing he had been transported to ancient times.

But over time, he had grown accustomed to the surroundings.

The villagers, struggling even to afford meals, paid little mind to the ancient structures.

Besides, their living conditions paled in comparison to modern standards.

Entering the village, they saw numerous elders seeking shade under the trees.

“Zhao’s back.”

“We’re so secluded here; no one would bother stealing watermelons.”

A quick look revealed the state of the village.

Most residents were either ill or disabled.

Those who were able-bodied had long since departed.

Thus, the community of over fifty households relied heavily on one another.

Zhao Yuegu warmly greeted each person.

Lin Luqin followed, her surprise evident.

“I didn’t realize you were so well-liked here.”

“Well, I am one of the few young people around.”

Orphaned, Zhao Yuegu and his sister had been raised by the villagers.

Nearly everyone was ill, yet the elders still shared their best food with Zhao Yuegu.

“He’s never ventured beyond here in his life; he’s not familiar with things like this.”

The cameraman was adept at filming but less so at engaging with people.

Finally, he simply said, “Thank you.”

Zhao patted the cameraman on the shoulder, then turned his attention to Lin Luqin, who was now encircled by a crowd.

In that moment, Lin Luqin was on the verge of tears from anxiety.

The local seniors were overwhelming with their warmth!

They bombarded her with questions about her age and occupation.

It was more daunting than the blind dates her family pushed her into.

Yet, their warmth left her feeling unable to decline their inquiries.

“I’m 20 years old.”

“I’m an only child.”

“I don’t gain weight easily.”

“I’ve only just met Zhao Yuegu.”

“I can’t possibly have three kids!”

Lin Luqin felt utterly powerless.

These well-meaning seniors were even more pressuring than any reporter.

Their enthusiasm was simply too much.

She could sense their genuine kindness toward her.

Involuntarily, her eyes sought Zhao Yuegu for assistance.

With a smile, Zhao turned his head away.

They had come to the village to shoot; they needed to brace themselves for the experience.

Eventually, the female director reached her limit and approached Zhao Yuegu.

“Zhao, we need your help. We can’t continue filming like this.”

Zhao shook his head, signaling his inability to assist.

“We’ll pay you for your help with the shoot.”

“I’m not in need of money.”

He was more eager to return home to check on his sister than to deal with the situation at the village entrance.

He was aware that the elders might spend hours chatting with Lin Luqin.

Upon noticing that Nanna had begun preparing wedding supplies, Zhao Yuegu realized it was time for an explanation.

Otherwise, the grandfathers and grandmas might just have him marry Lin Luqin on the spot.