After finishing breakfast, Shen Wuqiu followed Uncle Zheng to West Mountain to inspect the newly plowed soil.
The morning air carried a crisp, earthy scent, and the rows of neat, turned earth stretched out gracefully under the rising sun. Uncle Zheng wiped the sweat from his forehead with a towel draped around his neck and pointed toward the eastern ridge.
We’ve cleared the weeds across most of the upper section. Once the saplings arrive from the nursery next week, we can start planting right away.
Shen Wuqiu nodded in approval, her gaze sweeping over the verdant landscape. The progress is much faster than I anticipated. You and the team have done a wonderful job.
It’s nothing, just hard work as usual, Uncle Zheng chuckled, pleased with the praise. Your father always said this land had immense potential, and it looks like he was right.
After spending a couple of hours reviewing the irrigation channels and discussing fertilizer schedules with the veteran farmers, Shen Wuqiu decided to head back home before noon.
As she walked up the stone path toward the courtyard, she noticed the white cat sitting majestically on the low brick wall, bathing in the warm sunlight. Upon spotting her, the cat flicked her ears, leaped gracefully to the ground, and trotted over with her tail held high.
Meow.
Bending down to scoop the feline into her arms, Shen Wuqiu stroked the soft, pristine fur along her back. Did you miss me while I was gone?
The white cat let out a soft murmur, pressing her head against Shen Wuqiu’s wrist in a rare display of affection.
Just as she stepped through the doorway, Su Yunzhi emerged from the kitchen carrying a plate of freshly sliced fruit. She paused for a moment when she saw the cat, though her expression softened considerably compared to their previous clashes. She placed the plate on the wooden table in the living room and spoke in a relatively neutral tone.
You’re back just in time. Wash your hands and have some fruit.
Shen Wuqiu was slightly taken aback by the gesture, but she accepted it with a polite smile. Thank you, Auntie.
Seeing that the household atmosphere had finally grown peaceful, Shen Wuqiu felt a quiet sense of relief settle over her. She carried the white cat upstairs to her room, setting her down gently on the bed before grabbing a change of clothes for a quick shower.
The road ahead was still long, and managing thousands of acres of land would undoubtedly bring countless challenges, but for the first time since her return, she felt entirely ready to face them.