Chapter 32: Holds a Grudge
“Shitang’s family, this misunderstanding was my fault…” Bai Kangyuan was afraid that Su Mulan would blame Bai Lixia and the other children, so he hurriedly explained, “As I’m getting older, I’ve become a bit confused. When I saw you taking Shuiliu to town to sell things, I misunderstood and thought you were going to sell Shuiliu.”
“Village head,” Su Mulan observed Bai Kangyuan’s attempt to appear calm, but it was evident he was somewhat flustered. She continued, “I’ll be straightforward. Normally, no one would think of the idea of selling children. Uncle Village head, you are known for your integrity and wouldn’t entertain such malicious thoughts.”
“It must have been Lixia and the other three children who came to seek your judgment, prompting you to bring them here in haste to settle the matter with me. Others heard about it and couldn’t rest easy, so they followed to see for themselves and also spoke up, making sure I wouldn’t dare to do wrong again.”
Suddenly understanding the whole situation, Bai Kangyuan was also quite surprised. He glanced at Su Mulan and said, “Bai Shitang’s family, this misunderstanding was indeed our fault. On behalf of everyone here, I apologize to you. Please don’t take it to heart.”
“Village head, I really can’t just let this go. I have to take this matter seriously…” Su Mulan replied firmly.
Unexpectedly, Su Mulan was someone who held grudges.
The faces of Bai Kangyuan and the others immediately turned sour.
But upon reflection, they had indeed misunderstood Su Mulan before clarifying the situation, so her anger was justified.
But before they could overthink, Su Mulan continued, “People live their lives, each sweeping their own doorstep clean. Despite the myriad troubles others may face, most tend to mind their own business unless necessary. However, Uncle Village head and everyone here, seeing that Lixia and the other children are pitiful, wanted to lend a helping hand.”
“These children are fortunate to have uncles, elders, and aunties like you all in their lives. Your willingness to extend a helping hand reflects your kindness, and I deeply appreciate it. It must be acknowledged and remembered.”
“I must remember that Uncle Village head and all of you are kind-hearted people…”
These were Su Mulan’s heartfelt words.
She was accustomed to the warmth and coldness of human relationships, and had seen the vicissitudes of life. Even in her past life’s career, she had experienced all sorts of deceit and intrigue among people. Now, watching the villagers of Baijia Village willing to speak up and stand up for a few children in trouble, she couldn’t help but feel that the people of Baijia Village were truly admirable.
Although it could be a bit chaotic at times, these people were much better than those who remained indifferent and cold-hearted.
Upon hearing Su Mulan’s words, everyone present was momentarily stunned.
Especially Bai Kangyuan, besides the complex gaze he directed at Su Mulan, there was also a hint of approval.
After working hard to earn money in town and returning home to carry back Bai Shuiliu who had twisted her ankle, exhausted from the morning’s efforts, only to be blocked at the village entrance and misunderstood as intending to sell children—anyone in such a situation would likely feel deeply wronged.
Yet Su Mulan did not become angry. Instead, she understood that these people were acting out of kindness and concern, extending their help and making their presence felt. Such calm and magnanimous thinking surpassed that of ordinary people.
“Bai Shitang’s family, your understanding is truly a great thing,” Bai Kangyuan said with relief. “We were also concerned for Bai Shuiliu and the others, fearing you might do something rash, which is why…”