C10 – Dirty Water

Outside the courtyard, amidst the grievances aired by the Lin Family, several onlookers among the teachers stood at the gate, observing the tumult. This parcel of land belonged to Lin Yuxing and his family, bestowed upon them by the former son-in-law during their division. Yet, the terrain proved infertile, incapable of nurturing even a modest vegetable patch, let alone crops.

Fully aware that this aunt wouldn’t relent over a mere silver coin, Lin Yuxing expressed his endurance, “Aunt, I’m no man to compel Lan into such dire straits as suicide.”

As the youth concluded his statement, some nearby teachers who had been spectating burst into laughter.

“Perhaps Lan finds no attraction in men and favors me instead. However... let’s set aside familial relations for now; I hold no interest in Lan either,” Lin Yuxing provocatively added, intensifying the commotion.This chapter is updated by nov(e)(l)biin.com

Witnessing him defame Lan, Aunt Lin flushed with rage, “Lin Yuxing! You, a cast-off husband, dare not drag Lan into your disgraceful plight.”

“Lin Yuxing, what drivel! With one leg crippled, a marriage annulled, and befuddled senses, yet upon reflection, it seems it’s actually my Lan who bears these burdens.” In truth, Aunt Lin sought to castigate Yu with all the muck.

Denizens of Lin and Lee Villages knew well that this individual had been ousted from matrimony, with many deeming him avaricious. Surrendering the marriage for a mere silver tael exposed his worthlessness.

“The term ‘annulment’ was not my coinage; it belonged to ‘aunt’,” Lin Yuxing countered with a smirk.

As Aunt Lin poised to retort, Lin Yuv hurried over, “Why linger here any longer?”

Originally neighboring dwellings, they could easily overhear each other’s disputes. However, keen listeners might discern faint sobs from the adjacent residence.

“All because of this rumor-monger. Were it not for Lin Yuxing’s prattle about Lan’s admiration for others, the Dong Clan wouldn’t have learned of Lan’s predicament,” Aunt Lin’s accusation stemmed from Lin Yuxing’s claim that Lan harbored affections elsewhere. Thus, blame was thrust upon him for the ensuing turmoil.