Chapter 121

After finishing their work, Michael Stone and Daniel River walked home side by side.

"Coming with me, Daniel?" Michael patted his cousin's shoulder.

Daniel's eyes gleamed as he remembered Emily had gone to town today. He licked his lips. "Sure, let's see what goodies Emily brought back."

Truthfully, he was still preoccupied with Charles Clark's situation. That girl's family suddenly demanding such a hefty dowry—something was definitely off.

As soon as they stepped into the yard, they heard Emily's clear voice teaching the children a poem.

"Dad! Uncle Daniel!" The two boys came running over, bouncing with excitement.

Emily looked up in surprise. "You're back early today. Dinner isn't ready yet."

Without a word, Michael headed straight for the kitchen. "I'll cook. You stay with the kids."

"There's meat in the cupboard," Emily called after him.

Daniel's eyes lit up at the mention of meat. He eagerly followed Michael into the kitchen and watched as his cousin pulled out a plate of deep red meat.

"Lean pork?" Daniel leaned in to sniff.

Michael didn't look up. "Beef."

"What?!" Daniel nearly jumped. "Where did Emily get that? Cattle are the team's treasure!"

"Bought it in town." Michael was already slicing the meat.

Daniel swallowed hard. "Emily's got great luck... How are we cooking it?"

"Stir-fry some, stew the rest with potatoes."

Just as they got busy, the gate creaked open again. Charles Clark and Samuel Bright walked in, carrying fish and a woven basket.

"Hello, Emily!" they greeted in unison.

Emily smiled and nodded. She noticed the complicated look in Charles' eyes when he glanced at her.

"Uncle Samuel! Uncle Charles!" The boys rushed toward the bucket. "Fish! Dad makes the best sour fish stew!"

"Sorry to intrude," Charles said awkwardly.

"Not at all. They're in the kitchen." Emily gestured toward the smoke rising from the chimney.

Inside, Michael was stir-frying the beef, its rich aroma filling the air. Daniel crouched by the stove, feeding it firewood.

"Michael, we caught some fish," Samuel said, setting the bucket down.

"Perfect. We'll add another dish." Michael kept his focus on the pan. "Clean them."

Daniel grinned conspiratorially. "Emily bought beef. We're in for a treat tonight."

Charles and Samuel exchanged glances, both visibly delighted. Beef—now that was a rare delicacy!

"David, go pick some scallions," Michael instructed.

The boys dashed off to the vegetable patch. The four men worked efficiently in the kitchen, the clatter of pots and pans filling the space.

Standing at the doorway, Emily watched the scene, a soft smile tugging at her lips. Amid the curling smoke, this winter evening felt unusually warm.