Chapter 248

"No need to go through all that trouble," Emily murmured, her gaze resting on Michael.

Young people always craved hotpot or barbecue every now and then.

"I'll handle it. Let's go home and get everything ready."

The moment they arrived, Michael got to work. Peeling potatoes, skewering bamboo sticks, roasting sweet potatoes—his movements were clumsy but earnest.

Emily leaned against the doorway, watching his awkward efforts with warmth in her heart. The taste didn’t matter; it was the thought that counted.

"Sweetheart, try this." Michael handed her the most perfectly roasted potato skewer.

"Mmm."

David and Tommy stood at a distance, exchanging glances. They had tasted their father’s cooking before—it was barely edible. How could their mother stomach it?

"Shouldn’t we head to the main house now?" Emily glanced at the sky, then pulled out two cans of fruit preserves.

"Keep them for yourselves." Michael frowned. He had wanted to buy New Year’s goods, but Emily had stopped him.

"We still have plenty at home. It’s New Year’s Eve, and there are so many kids today."

Michael didn’t argue further. Carrying the cans, he led his wife and children toward the main house.

"Sister-in-law, any later and the dumplings would’ve been boiled already!" Elizabeth called out loudly.

Emily shot her a glance, washed her hands, and joined in wrapping dumplings.

"I thought Second Sister-in-law would’ve done all of this."

Elizabeth finally understood—this third sister-in-law wasn’t someone to be trifled with.

"What New Year’s gifts did Second Sister-in-law bring for Mom and Dad? I arrived late this morning and didn’t see."

Patricia’s face flushed red. Everyone knew Emily had sent over gifts multiple times.

"Our third daughter-in-law brought so many things—work shoes, oil, meat, dried noodles, sugar, and even fruit!" Mother Stone counted on her fingers.

Elizabeth’s mouth fell open. That much?

"It’s only right to honor our parents," Emily said softly.

Elizabeth and Patricia felt a pang of envy. They wanted to show filial piety too, but they simply couldn’t afford such luxuries.

The dumplings were ready—mostly filled with cabbage and chives, with just a little meat. The family ate together in lively chatter.

After the meal, Michael had Lily bring out bowls and divided the two cans among everyone. Each child got a piece of fruit, and they cheered with delight.

"Canned fruit! It’s canned fruit!"

Orange and bayberry preserves were rare treats in the village. Even the adults were secretly astonished—these two cans must have cost over two yuan.

Emily only ate one bayberry, watching the children’s happy faces.

As night deepened, everyone returned to their own homes.

"Mom, this orange tastes like the little ones you picked for us before," David suddenly said.

Emily’s hand trembled. How did this child remember so well?

Now, how was she supposed to keep up this lie?

Having to sneak around just for a bite to eat—it was frustrating. Since when had she ever felt so guilty over food? Back when she was studying or working, seasonal fruits had never been out of reach.