Chapter 61: Reaping the Bitter Fruit

Night.

In a corner where no one was watching, Wenya covered her head with a coat.

Taking advantage of the changing of the guard at the entrance of the military compound, they quickly slipped out from the bushes on both sides.

It was almost eight o'clock.

Most people in the city stayed at home, and there were only a few people who had just finished their night shifts on the streets, with a few dogs occasionally popping out from both sides.

Wenya was so frightened that she trembled, but the thought of causing Ning Tang pain immediately calmed her down!

"Wenya, why are you so late? Didn't we agree on the phone to meet at the door? Why did you suddenly change the location?"

"Don't worry about that."

"What use do you have for this?"

Wenya isn't stupid; if she revealed the purpose of this thing, the person on the other end definitely wouldn't hand it over to her.

She subconsciously came up with an excuse: "I heard from people in the courtyard that there's a folk remedy in their countryside that if you eat this stuff, you can get pregnant within a month."

"You know, I've been married for over three years and there's still no sign of pregnancy. If I don't get pregnant soon, my life in the Xu family will only get worse."

Wenya thought this reason was good, but the other party had already noticed the flaw.

What folk remedies involve taking medicine that can cause miscarriage and lead to pregnancy?

"Wenya, this is no joke. It could be fatal if you're not careful. I had to ask several people for help to get it. Are you sure you want to use yourself?"

"If something really happens, I won't take responsibility."

These words were blunt, revealing the stakes beforehand while conveniently absolving the speaker of any responsibility.

Wenya's face was extremely ugly. She knew that these people were all after her and wanted to gain something from her. Not one of them was trustworthy!

She snatched the item from the other person's hand, her tone anything but friendly.

"Alright, even if I die, it has nothing to do with you, is that alright now!"

Seeing that she remained obstinate, the man didn't say anything more.

Anyway, it's just to get a favor from her. Even if something really happens, it's not like I forced her to eat it. She can't find a reason to cause trouble.

After everyone left.

Wenya carefully read the instruction manual.

This medicine is imported, and it's very difficult to get your hands on it. In addition, the hospital has very strict controls on it, so getting even one pill is considered a feat.

Looking at the risks listed above—massive bleeding, severe infection, even life-threatening situations, and a significant risk of infertility—it's clear that...

Wenya couldn't suppress the smile on her lips.

Damn Ning Tang, aren't you just showing off to me because of the bastard in your belly?

Once I mix the medicine with water and make you drink it, the child will be gone. Let's see how you'll still be able to swagger around in the Xu family then!

The ferocious smile on his face seemed to already show Ning Tang clutching her stomach, covered in blood, being rushed to the hospital.

Wenya carefully put the pills away. On the way back, as if she was worried, she would touch the pills in her pocket from time to time to make sure they were still there.

...

For several days in a row, Ning Tang felt that Wen Ya was acting strangely, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. In any case, she felt a chill run down her spine.

For example, during meals, Wenya would always eagerly serve her soup and ask her from time to time if she was thirsty.

This is very strange.

Ning Tang always found an excuse to avoid it.

I just got home from get off work today, and as soon as I opened the door, I saw Wenya wandering around in the kitchen, seemingly looking for something. She looked rather furtive.

Ning Tang tiptoed, choosing to hide in the shadows and see what she was up to.

Wenya rummaged through the cabinet for a long time, as if trying to figure out which blanket Ning Tang used among a pile of blankets.

If the one on the left belongs to Xu Qiaofeng, then the one on the right must belong to Ning Tang!

He took the pills out of his pocket, quickly stuffed them into the cup, and then poured half a cup of hot water from the thermos.

I stirred it with a spoon until the pill completely dissolved, and then slowly exhaled the breath I had been holding.

She even carefully wiped the rim of the cup, feeling that she might discover some traces. Wenya forced herself to reassure herself and pretended that nothing had happened.

She turned to leave, but her face met Ning Tang, who had been standing outside the door for a long time.

Her eyes widened in fright, and she forced back a scream.

Wenya subconsciously touched her nose and forced a stiff smile: "Sister-in-law, what are you doing here?"

Actually, she had her back to him just now, so Ning Tang didn't see what she did at all.

But seeing her guilty look, Ning Tang decided to tease her.

He said with a smile, "I just got off work and was about to go upstairs when I saw my second sister-in-law walking around in the kitchen. I thought you needed help with something, so I wanted to come and see."

Wenya's heart was pounding.

Hearing Ning Tang's words, he quickly went down the steps:

"I don't need your help. I'm just a little thirsty and wanted to get a glass of water."

"By the way, sister-in-law, you've been busy at the hospital all day. I bet you haven't even had time to drink water and rest. You must be exhausted and thirsty right now."

As Wenya spoke, she tried to hand the cup in her hand to Ning Tang.

"Here's a glass of water for you."

Ning Tang paused deliberately, not taking the cup from Wen Ya's hand.

Instead, she smiled and walked into the kitchen, saying, "No need, Second Sister-in-law. How could I take your water? Keep it for yourself."

"Besides, the kitchen is right in front of me, I can just walk a few steps to get water."

Wenya tightened her grip on the water glass.

My heart skipped a beat.

Did that little bitch discover something just now?

But judging from her calm demeanor now, she doesn't seem to have discovered it.

If Ning Tang doesn't drink it, what if Xu Qiaofeng, a former special forces reconnaissance soldier, sees it and becomes suspicious when he comes back?

Seeing Wenya's evasive gaze, Ning Tang became even more certain.

Something unusual must be going on.

There's something wrong with the water in this cup.

Moreover, it wasn't just her imagination during this period; Wenya was definitely up to no good.

Seeing Ning Tang go and pour water herself, Wen Ya was as anxious as an ant on a hot pan.

She walked over quickly, forcing a smile, "Tangtang, no need to go to so much trouble. There's no hot water in the thermos. Here, this cup is for you."

"It's alright, Second Sister-in-law, I just like it when it's not hot."

That ungrateful little slut!

She was born to suffer, and despite all the kindness we showed her, she didn't appreciate it!

Wenya suppressed her anger and continued, "Drinking cold water is bad for your health. You're pregnant now, so you can't be reckless."

At this moment, Ning Tang had already poured the water.

It's nothing like what Wenya said; there's no hot water inside.

She raised an eyebrow, looking at Wenya who was extremely anxious and whose face was already showing signs of distress, and suddenly a mischievous idea came to her mind.

Ning Tang took the cup from Wen Ya's hand and, under Wen Ya's surprised gaze, said, "Second Sister-in-law, thank you."

"Here's a glass of water for you."

Wenya's eyes lit up instantly, and even her fake smile seemed more genuine.

"Oh, that's more like it. You can't be reckless when you're pregnant. Your sister-in-law is just trying to help you."

He didn't even notice the cunning glint in Ning Tang's eyes.

Just as they were about to exchange cups, Ning Tang turned around, pointed to the cabinet above, and looked embarrassed.

"Second sister-in-law, Aunt Zhang has put the candied fruit on top. My stomach hasn't been feeling well lately, and I keep craving these kinds of snacks."

"Qiaofeng hasn't come back yet, and I'm too scared to climb onto the stool and get it myself. Could you please help me?"

Wenya outwardly agreed.

In her heart, she was cursing: "So what if you're pregnant? You're acting all delicate! You're not even pretending to be delicate!"

The instant she turned around, Ning Tang swiftly switched the positions of the two cups.

When Wenya looked towards Ning Tang.

Ning Tang lowered her eyes and slowly drank the water, finishing the cup in no time.

As I handed over the candied fruit, my gaze unconsciously swept over the empty glass.

Suppressing her smugness and excitement, Wenya feigned concern and said, "Drinking so fast, you must have been tired at the hospital?"

"What happened before was all my sister-in-law's fault. She was too out of her mind."

"Grandpa and Grandma are getting old now. The most important thing for our family now is to maintain harmony and prosperity. Tangtang, can you forgive your sister-in-law?"

Wenya had already come up with a plan.

If Ning Tang were to suddenly have an accident, her family would definitely suspect her first.

But if she takes the initiative to break the ice and pretends to make up, even if someone suspects it, she can play innocent.

He said he had long since reconciled with Ning Tang, so why would he harm her?

Ning Tang looked up at me, the smile in her eyes fading slightly.

Knowing her little scheme, he didn't call her out on it directly, but instead said slowly:

"Second sister-in-law, what are you saying? There's no grudge between family members. Let's just get along well from now on."

"By the way, sister-in-law, drink this water quickly before it gets too cold."

Wenya exclaimed "Oh!" and drank the water in the cup without any hesitation.

It tasted bitter upon first sip, so bitter that she couldn't help but frown.

"Second sister-in-law, does this water taste bitter to you too?" Ning Tang interjected appropriately. "It's probably because Aunt Zhang didn't boil it thoroughly. I'll let her know in a bit."

After saying that, Ning Tang slowly left the place.

...

That night.

Second-floor bedroom.

The once empty house has gradually come to life.

Everywhere you look, there are traces of Ning Tang's vibrant presence.

She was sitting in front of the dressing table, carefully applying the lipstick that Xu Qiaofeng had given her in front of the mirror.

The mauve color really suits her.

Her previously overly thin body has gradually become fuller after careful recuperation during this period.

Her cheeks glowed with a healthy pink, and her pregnant belly was slightly protruding, outlining the soft curves unique to a woman.

When Xu Qiaofeng came out of the shower, he saw this scene.

The sound was kept very soft, as if afraid of disturbing the tranquility and beauty.

Without realizing it, she was already reflected in the mirror.

Because I had just finished washing up, I had nothing but a white towel wrapped around my lower body.

The muscles in his upper body are smooth and firm, a testament to years of training.

Water droplets, still clinging to her shoulders and neck, slid down her bronze skin and landed on her mysterious waistline.

Ning Tang saw this vibrant and sensual scene in the mirror and subconsciously swallowed.

I'm such a useless person!

Why can't I take my eyes off handsome men?

Xu Qiaofeng, unaware of her subtle movements, walked to Ning Tang's side.

He bent down and hugged her from behind, his voice hoarse from just having showered: "All done applying? Let me see."

As he spoke, he gently turned Ning Tang's shoulder so that she was facing him.

"Yes, this color is really nice. Pang Bo is right, it suits you very well."

A deep voice reached her ears, and Ning Tang felt a jolt. She turned her head sharply, only to meet Xu Qiaofeng's smiling eyes.

"Captain Xu has become so sweet-talking now, he even knows how to compliment people."

Didn't you tell me before that I shouldn't try to have things I shouldn't have?

Xu Qiaofeng paused, as if recalling what he had said before, and his face stung a little.

He reached up and scratched the back of his head, his tone slightly ingratiating.

"I'm so honest. If I were to approach a pretty girl, it would seem too presumptuous."

"Besides, feelings are cultivated little by little. When we first met, I acted too familiar, so you wouldn't feel comfortable staying with me, would you?"

Ning Tang laughed as he coaxed her.

But it must be said that Xu Qiaofeng really spoke to my heart.

If he had been too enthusiastic about her from the start because of her appearance, she would have definitely run away overnight.

It was the kind where they carried a train around.

Ning Tang has a pair of shallow dimples on both sides of her cheeks, which are not usually visible, but now when she smiles, she looks sweet and soft.

Xu Qiaofeng watched, and his heart inexplicably skipped a beat.

He couldn't resist reaching out and poking her dimple, asking in a deep voice, "May I kiss you?"

Ning Tang was taken aback by his sudden serious question.

Her cheeks instantly flushed, and even the tips of her ears turned red.

She didn't answer directly, but nodded slightly, her eyes lowered, her eyelashes trembling slightly with nervousness.

Seeing this, Xu Qiaofeng was completely charmed by her obedience.

His Adam's apple bobbed involuntarily as he leaned closer.

He didn't rush to her lips; instead, he gently rubbed Ning Tang's cheek, his movements incredibly tender.

Then he slowly lowered his head and kissed the corner of her lips.

The moment their lips touched, Ning Tang subconsciously pursed her lips.

Xu Qiaofeng's kiss was very light, his nose filled with the scent of the man who had just taken a shower. He moved around gently, not daring to use too much force.

He reached out to protect her belly, touching it every now and then, as if to comfort the baby.

After a while, Xu Qiaofeng slowly backed away.

Ning Tang was given a chance to recover, but after only a few seconds, he was about to lean over again.

Just as they were about to kiss, a series of hurried footsteps sounded downstairs.

Then Su Ying and Xu Qiaolan came to knock on the door.

"Tangtang, are you asleep?"

"No, sister-in-law, what happened?" Ning Tang asked nervously, instinctively pushing Xu Qiaofeng away.

Su Ying said, "I don't know what's wrong with Wenya. She suddenly started foaming at the mouth in the living room and is now convulsing."

"Grandma and Grandpa have already gone to bed. The second son just called the hospital. It's not convenient to make a big fuss about this. Could you please go down and take a look?"

Grandma Xu had just escaped death not long ago; if she found out, something bad might happen.

Ning Tang immediately replied, "Okay, I'll come down right away after I get dressed."

Su Ying and Xu Qiaolan left in a panic outside the door.

Xu Qiaofeng, inside the house, frowned. "This is the second time."

"What?" Ning Tang didn't understand.

He suppressed his anger, saying, "She was the one who bothered us last time too."

Ning Tang was taken aback by the man's aggrieved voice, and then couldn't help but laugh out loud.

"What time is it to talk about this? Let's go down and take a look first."

"Heh, if she's faking it, I'll never let her off the hook." Xu Qiaofeng grinned, revealing his white teeth.

The two hurried downstairs, where the living room was already in chaos.

Aunt Zhang stood nearby, her hands and feet numb and disoriented, not knowing what to do.

Everyone was afraid of letting Grandpa and Grandma Xu know, so they subconsciously moved very quietly.

Wenya huddled on the ground, her face as pale as paper.

White foam hung from the corners of his mouth, and his limbs were still moving uncontrollably.

"Tangtang, come and see what's wrong with her? She was fine just now, but suddenly she clutched her stomach and collapsed." Su Ying quickly explained the situation to them as they came down.

Ning Tang quickly checked it over.

His pulse and breathing were weak, and his pupils were somewhat dilated.

"It's acute food poisoning; he needs to be taken to the hospital immediately for gastric lavage."

"We ate the same food last night, so how did Wenya get poisoned?" Su Ying asked subconsciously.

Ning Tang curled her lips into a cold smile.

What else could it be? Of course, it must be something wrong with that glass of water from this afternoon!

She reaped what she sowed!