love on the turquoise land

Chapter 62

Early in the morning, Que Cha was busy cooking, relying only on a single induction cooker to prepare meals for over ten people. It was quite rudimentary, she comforted herself, considering it a transitional period.

A few nights ago, she was notified to quickly leave the villa and meet with others at a new location. Upon arrival, she learned that something had happened to Jiang Baichuan and his group.

They didn't specify what had happened, just asked her to surrender her phone. One reason was to avoid being tracked, the other was in case Jiang Baichuan called, they would handle it accordingly.

She vaguely felt it was related to the aftermath of Yan Tuo's imprisonment.

***

The new accommodation was located in the outskirts, a recently acquired small garment factory. Due to various reasons, the new owners delayed taking over, leaving the factory vacant for two months. Que Cha and the others managed to secure it through some connections, spending a little money for the two months' right of use.

With over ten people, including Xing Shen who rushed back the next day, they temporarily settled in the factory.

Though they found a place to stay, it was a far cry from the villa: no private bathrooms, having to use public toilets; any room could serve as a kitchen with an induction cooker; they had to do everything themselves, no longer relying on domestic help.

Everyone was busy with their own tasks, except Que Cha, who ended up cooking since she had free time. Fortunately, despite being only seventeen when she started living a comfortable life with Jiang Baichuan, she enjoyed cooking for him and often experimented with different dishes. This task suited her, and it didn't tire her out.

As the porridge boiled, Que Cha, wearing oven mitts, lifted the pot. The rice porridge smelled delicious, especially with the added fresh lilies, giving it a sweet aroma.

She wondered where Jiang Baichuan was now and what he was having for breakfast. Que Cha felt a bit concerned but then shrugged it off, thinking love can fade away.

Indeed, her feelings for Jiang Baichuan were no longer the intense infatuation of her youth. He used to be her focal point, her reliance, even her pride. Now, he was just an ordinary middle-aged man. As long as he was around, she would stay with him.

A wicked thought crossed her mind: if Jiang Baichuan died, would she start anew and find a new life? Que Cha felt guilty for such a thought, quickly shaking her head to dispel it. Jiang Baichuan was her choice, and he had treated her well over the years. How could she entertain such twisted ideas?

She was startled by the sound of footsteps behind her. Shan Qiang peeked in from the doorway, asking if it was time for dinner. Que Cha responded affirmatively, telling him to sit down while she served him.

Before she could finish speaking, Da Tou's voice came from outside, requesting a bowl as well. Que Cha frowned slightly. It was fine to serve Shan Qiang, who had helped Yu Rong in the morning despite being exhausted, but why should she do the same for Da Tou?

In the past, Da Tou had always been ambiguous towards her, making her feel like nothing more than Jiang Baichuan's little lover. But these past few days, perhaps because Jiang Baichuan was absent, he had become even more unpleasant.

Que Cha felt repulsed but didn't want to cause a scene, so she begrudgingly served both of them before stepping out.

The factory floor remained unchanged, with sewing machines lined up and rolls of fabric piled in the corners. High on the wall hung a red banner encouraging diligence and innovation.