Chapter 296

The last two educated youths left the commune's youth quarters.

The building stood empty now. Years ago, when the storm had destroyed the old house and injured the youths, the entire village had come together to build this new one. Now only memories remained.

When Olivia Parker and the other educated youth departed with their college admission letters, the villagers couldn't stop gossiping.

"Patricia, your sister-in-law failed the exams again?"

Patricia Stone kept her head down, sickle flashing through the rice stalks. Harvest season left no time for idle chatter.

She knew better than to speak carelessly. That day at the Chen household, she'd witnessed Emily Johnson's formidable temper firsthand—the memory still sent chills down her spine. All these years, her sister-in-law had shown remarkable restraint by not holding grudges.

Rumors said Emily's family had even secured Michael Stone a city job. Even without passing exams, they could return to urban life. Who'd dare cross them?

"The admission letters haven't all arrived yet," Patricia wiped her brow. "Those two youths studied under my sister-in-law's guidance. If they passed, how could she fail?"

The crowd exchanged glances. Her logic was sound.

"This year's harvest is exceptional!" The elders marveled at the heavy rice panicles. Without Emily's help, such bounty would've been impossible.

"Extra grain rations for everyone!" The commune members rejoiced. While other brigades suffered corn shortages, theirs flourished.

"Emily, take a break." Mary Stone watched her daughter-in-law work with concern. She longed to ask about the admission letter but feared adding pressure.

At dinner, Michael whispered, "I've got people watching the post office. We'll know immediately when news comes." He hesitated. "I've even arranged watchers in the county town."

"What if I failed?"

"You won't." Michael's voice held steel.

Two days later, the postman's shout echoed across the fields.

"Michael Stone! Are you here?"

Robert Stone's hand trembled mid-swing, nearly dropping his sickle. "Michael! Michael passed!" His voice shook with excitement.

The commune members gaped. Wasn't he just accompanying his wife for exams? How did he get admitted?

John Stone Sr. sprinted over, dragging his son to claim the letter. Under the sunlight, that admission notice gleamed brighter than gold.