Reborn in the 1980s: I became a stepmother in the 1980s Ⅱ

Part 245

Aunt Jiang's expression changed as she processed Si Nian's words. "Really? You mean... these could have been taken from a grave?"

Si Nian nodded, her voice steady. "Yes, it's not uncommon. Some people might sell things that have been buried or discarded. They know that the elderly are more trusting and less suspicious."

Aunt Jiang's face paled a little. "I didn't think about that. I just felt sorry for the old lady."

Si Nian reassured her, "It's understandable to want to help, but it's better to be cautious, especially with food. If you didn't eat any yet, it's best to just throw them away."

Aunt Jiang nodded, clearly shaken. "Thank you for telling me, Nian Nian. I'll be more careful from now on."

Si Nian felt a mix of relief and concern. She knew that while Aunt Jiang was generous, she could also be a target for those looking to exploit her kindness. "If you ever want help choosing fruits or anything, just let me know. I'm always here for you."

Aunt Jiang smiled, her expression softening. "You're such a good girl, Nian Nian. I really appreciate it."

However, as she walked, Aunt Jiang's anger only grew. "I can't believe someone would stoop so low! It's disgusting to think they would sell such things."

Si Nian followed closely, trying to calm her. "Aunt Jiang, it's understandable to be upset, but let's approach this calmly. You don't want to escalate the situation."

Aunt Jiang huffed, "Calm? How can I be calm when someone tries to take advantage of me like this?"

Si Nian took a deep breath. "I get it, but if we confront her in anger, it might not end well. Let's just ask her why she sold these apples and see if there's a misunderstanding first."

Aunt Jiang paused, considering Si Nian's words. "You're right, but I won't let her off easy. She needs to know what she did was wrong."

As they approached the market stall where Aunt Jiang had bought the apples, Si Nian noticed the old woman who had sold them, sitting behind the counter. She looked unassuming, but Si Nian could sense the tension in Aunt Jiang beside her.

"Just ask her, and I'll be right here with you," Si Nian reassured her.

Aunt Jiang took a deep breath, steeling herself, and approached the stall. "Excuse me, can we talk?" she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

The old woman looked up, her expression unreadable. "What's the matter, dear?"

Aunt Jiang held up the apple. "I want to know why these apples have this... dust on them."

Si Nian watched as Aunt Jiang confronted the woman, hoping for a resolution that wouldn't escalate into anger.

As they walked back, Aunt Jiang fumed about the old woman's deceit. "I can't believe she would lie like that! It's infuriating!"

Si Nian tried to lighten the mood. "At least you caught her before eating those apples. It's frustrating, but it could have been worse."

Aunt Jiang sighed. "True, but it's still disappointing. I thought I could help someone in need."

Si Nian nodded. "Your intentions were good. Sometimes people take advantage of that. Let's focus on something positive. How about we make a nice meal together?"

Aunt Jiang's expression softened a bit. "You're right. Cooking together always makes me feel better. Let's go home and whip something up!"

With that, their spirits lifted, and they headed home, ready to put the day's frustrations behind them.