Chapter 230

Emily Johnson flipped through her literature textbook, sunlight streaming through the window onto the yellowed pages. Though a science student, she couldn't neglect humanities. The curriculum in this era differed vastly from what she remembered, each lesson carrying an unfamiliar tone.

While reviewing her studies, she waited for news.

Amy Bright had been marked. Given her uncle and aunt's greedy nature, they'd never let such prey escape. After today's incident, that couple would likely accelerate their plans.

"David, fetch Ethan for me," she closed her book, eyes glinting sharply.

Soon, Ethan Miller arrived panting.

"What is it, sis?"

"Keep watch near the Brights' place, especially if they leave the village to visit anyone," she instructed in a hushed tone. "Stay vigilant."

Some people needed to be taught a lesson. Thinking they could act recklessly just because of their seniority was laughable. Overestimating themselves while scheming—how pathetic.

Meanwhile, Margaret Johnson finally returned to their provincial city home, arms laden with packages.

"Accountant Li's back?" called their neighbor Mrs. Wang. "Didn't Emily come with you?"

These days, every family had youth sent to the countryside—those who passed exams returned; those who failed remained stuck in rural hardship.

"Too tired from the trip. Let's chat another day," Margaret forced a smile, unlocking the door.

The empty house echoed with silence—family members were either working or at school. Dropping her luggage, she exhaled deeply. Retrieving items from a fertilizer bag, she repacked some and headed to the nearby state-run restaurant.

Among several such establishments in the city, her second son Anthony worked as a chef at this one.

"Chef Johnson, your mother's here," a server announced, lifting the kitchen curtain.

Anthony paused his vegetable chopping, wiped his hands, and excused himself from his father-in-law.

"Mom!" His face brightened at the sight of her. "You came back alone?"

Anxiety laced his words. He'd sent a telegram, but his younger sister never replied.

"Emily sent these for you." Margaret handed him the package.

Anthony froze. His sister still remembered him? Warmth flooded his chest, lips curving unconsciously.

"How... is she?" he asked cautiously. Close in age, they'd always been affectionate siblings.

"She's married. Did you know?"

"What?" Anthony nearly dropped the package in shock. Fumbling to catch it, his face paled.

His little sister married? Such a major event kept secret from the family?

Then again, all these years they'd only sent parcels—no one ever visited her. Had they gone sooner, they wouldn't be learning this only now. Could she be... settling permanently in the countryside?

Even the worst city job surpassed rural life.

Suddenly, he recalled his sister-in-law's scheme—using arranged marriage to advance his elder brother's career. That dream would now be shattered.

"I didn't know..." Anthony's voice turned hoarse. "I thought she was still angry. Back then, she didn't have to go to the countryside—our family could've afforded to keep her..."

His words trailed off, thick with regret.