Chapter 1, Dispute

Then why don't you eat a little before you leave? It's almost mealtime, and there will definitely be no food at the company. You might end up with a stomachache again." An Ran's mother said as she turned to the kitchen, "The ribs are already stewed. I'll serve you a bowl of rice; you eat first.

Anna put down her bag and went to the restroom. Before her mother turned to the kitchen, she gave Anran a look that said, "Don't hold it against your sister"

When Fang Zhe opened the door, he coincidentally bumped into An Ran's sister, Anna, who was entering. He greeted her briefly and then hurriedly left.

Anran frowned and said: "Is it again some health knowledge shared in your WeChat group? Haven't I told you that it's all a scam?"

Anran smiled noncommittally, having received a reply from the leader that there were no issues with the draft, and that was that

The mother, fearing that her two daughters would reignite the flames of conflict, hurriedly poked Anran's arm with her hand. However, Anna was already provoked and glared at Anran, saying: "What do you mean? Am I not allowed to say a word in this house?"

Seeing that Anna's tone was off, Mother, fearing to upset Anran and cause further discord between the sisters, hurriedly said to Anna: "Quickly go wash your hands, the prawns are all ready, we are just waiting for you to take charge of the cooking. Your father said that I can't cook the oil-braised prawns as well as you do"

As the end of the workday approached, Anran sent the draft, which she had revised twice, to her supervisor, anxiously waiting for a response, uncertain if she would be able to leave on time. At that moment, she received a call from Fang Zhe, who informed her that he had arrived downstairs at her office building, with the car parked in the usual spot

How long will it be? We will wait for you later," Anran's mother asked

Both father and mother let out a loud exclamation at the same time, and what they said afterward was completely lost on Anran. All she heard was Anna slamming the door with a bang, and then her mother murmured something that greatly angered her father, who shouted a few words in the living room.

Anran reached out to take something, and Fang Zhe said: "Let me take you upstairs first. We are already downstairs. I will let Dad know before I leave. I estimate it will be quite late before I finish. I will take a taxi later and leave the car keys with you. Please send me a WeChat message when you get home"

Who are you afraid will hear? Anna suddenly appeared at the kitchen door, startling Anran and her mother. Their startled reaction intensified Anna's suspicion, making her feel even more that the two were talking about her. Annoyed, she said, "Is there anything that cannot be said face to face? Why are you whispering behind someone's back?"

Although Anna's tone made Anran somewhat displeased, she had recently had a quarrel with Anna. Today, taking the opportunity of celebrating her father's birthday, she also wanted to ease the tension. If they were to argue again, it would go against her original intention, so she pretended not to hear.

His company has an urgent matter, asking him to hurry. Anran's mother came out of the kitchen

Anran understood her mother's meaning. Anna divorced Shen Cheng a year ago, one of the reasons being Shen Cheng's infidelity, which made her somewhat sensitive regarding such matters. Anran actually empathized with her sister; like their parents, she had been cautiously attending to Anna's emotions since the divorce. However, Anna not only showed no signs of improvement but became increasingly sensitive, even somewhat unreasonable. Anran privately told her mother that Anna had been hurt and it would be best for her to see a psychologist. Anran truly understood and empathized with her sister; like their parents, she had been carefully looking after Anna's feelings since the divorce. Yet, Anna had not improved but had instead become more sensitive and even somewhat irrational. Anran mentioned to her mother in private that Anna had been hurt and it would be best for her to consult a psychologist. Her mother replied that such words were only for her to say and that she must not let her sister know. It was no wonder Anna was affected; who could have imagined that Shen Cheng would do such a thing.

Are you out of your mind? Do you know that this is called delusional disorder?

"Can I not worry? Your second aunt's family has children, and here you are still playing around. Do you think I can remain calm?" Mother glanced outside and lowered her voice, saying, "Why did your sister get divorced? Isn't it all because of the children? You are already thirty-one; if you don't settle down soon, it will really be too late. Then you'll be the one crying."

Mother continued, "A few days ago, I ran into Aunt Wang. Her daughter Xinxin is two years younger than you, and she is considered an advanced maternal age for childbirth. During her prenatal check-ups, they said this was not up to standard and that was not up to standard. She ended up having a cesarean after trying for a natural birth, what a hardship she endured." Seeing that Anran did not respond, she added, "I’m telling you, don’t take this lightly. While your father and I are still in good health, we can help you take care of the children. The policy for having a second child has been relaxed now. If you can’t give birth yourself, a cesarean section means you’ll have to wait two years before you can conceive again. By then, you’ll be almost thirty-five, and it will be risky to have another child."

"Who brings this up every day!" An Ran raised her voice, "This matter has become a taboo in our family. Not to mention me, even my parents wouldn't dare to mention a word in front of you"

"That's enough! Don't say anything more. Can't you see your father is already anxious?" Anran's mother stepped forward, tugging at Anna's arm, pulling her towards the kitchen while giving her a knowing glance.

After finishing dinner, Father went to the living room to watch television, while Anna answered a phone call and went to her room to chat. Anran helped Mother tidy up in the kitchen

"No need, Mom," Fang Zhe said as he rushed to the kitchen door. "I'm in a hurry to leave; if I delay any longer, the traffic will be worse. I can just buy a sesame cake from Lin Ji at the door and eat it on the way." After saying this, he turned to An Ran's father and added, "Dad, let An Ran accompany you. I'll head out first and join you for drinks next time."

Anna snorted and said: "Who are you trying to fool? I only said a couple of words about Fang Zhe to get in the door. What did I say that was wrong? I just told her to be a little careful, and now I've become the bad guy. If it’s going to be like this, I won’t say a word next time."

"What do you know about beauty? Isn't it just because your parents always said that Shencheng is good, which made you unhappy? You felt that your parents were partial, and it was unfair to your family, Fang Zhe. Now that I have divorced that bastard, aren't you pleased and enjoying the spectacle?"

If you are sick, go see a doctor; don't just bite anyone you catch. Do I really need to show off my affection in front of you

"Anran!" Anna shouted loudly, angrily saying, "You need to clarify your words! How have I caused a commotion? I am divorced, and I do not need you to remind me of it every day!"

"Who says you can't speak? Haven't you said enough already?" Anran retorted, "Always resorting to threats and intimidation, have I said anything to you? Have your parents said anything to you? We understand that you are struggling after your divorce, but it can't go on like this endlessly. There are many people in the world who have gone through divorce, yet I haven't seen anyone else act like you, as if you've taken some kind of stimulant, causing a ruckus with your family every day."

An Ran hurriedly packed her things and rushed to the place where Fang Zhe usually parked to wait for her. When she arrived, Fang Zhe was scrolling through his phone. He did not say much as he saw An Ran get into the car, and simply started the vehicle and drove off. An Ran complained to him about some work-related matters, but noticing that Fang Zhe seemed somewhat distracted, she asked, "What's wrong? Is something bothering you?"

I know what? Hmph! Anna let out a mocking snort

Hurry up, the traffic is bad, be careful on the road. Anran's father waved his hand from the living room

That would be different; if it were my partner, they wouldn't even come to pick me up. It would be a miracle if they could go at all

"What are you talking about?" Anran walked over and asked

After exchanging a few pleasantries on the stairs, Fang Zhe stated that he had urgent matters to attend to at the company

Anna said while changing her shoes: "He leaves just as I arrive, does he not want to see me or what"

"What is there that cannot be said between mother and daughter?" The mother leaned closer to Anran and said, "I heard that there are ovulation test strips available now. I will buy you a couple of boxes later, and when the time comes, you can be more frequent..."

"What does it matter if he hears it..." The mother still seemed somewhat relentless.

Then I am truly grateful to heaven and earth An Ran muttered casually

"Alright, alright..." An Ran interrupted her mother's words, feeling embarrassed, fearing that her father in the living room would overhear this awkward conversation. She lowered her voice and said, "Don't say anymore, let my dad hear..."

What do you know

While the mother was packing the food into the lunchbox, she said: "I just left this dish untouched; you can take it back later for Fang Zhe to eat when he comes back tonight"

What is beautiful about me

Get lost! Anna!

Fang Zhe did not want to speak, and An Ran did not ask much either. The two of them arrived at An Ran's parents' house without exchanging a word. Since it was an old community with no parking spaces, while An Ran went to the bakery across the street to pick up the birthday cake she had ordered yesterday, Fang Zhe went to park in the nearby community. After picking up the cake, when he arrived at the entrance of An Ran's parents' community, he saw Fang Zhe chatting with two security guards.

Anran originally harbored a sense of compassion for her sister, but she could not withstand the prolonged sarcasm and passive-aggressive behavior. It was not just her; even her parents were cautious around Anna, fearing that any misstep might provoke her. As a result, the atmosphere at home had been rather tense for more than half a year. When Fang Zhe, this 'outsider,' was present, Anna seemed to hold back somewhat, allowing everyone to converse calmly and share a few laughs. However, on days like today when Fang Zhe is absent, the home once again becomes a place of low pressure.

Anran shot Anna a glare, hoping to end the argument, but Anna seemed ignited, and at this moment, no one could intervene. She shouted back into the living room, "What’s the matter! Are you afraid I’ll expose her little affair with Fang Zhe?"

No need, he might be late today, besides, if he gets hungry, he can order takeout himself

Enough, enough..." The mother repeatedly advised, but both of them were already angry, so how could it be easy to persuade them to calm down

No need, don't wait for me, I estimate it will be quite late

Anran knew that her mother would eventually bring this matter up, so she just focused on washing the dishes and did not respond

Standing alone in the kitchen, feeling a bit nauseous due to her rapid heartbeat, she could not determine whether it was the shock from the information that Anna had suddenly thrown at her, the embarrassment of being ridiculed in front of the whole family, or simply the result of elevated blood pressure from the intense argument.

While her colleagues were casually complaining about their husbands, An Ran was busy preparing a speech for a meeting that her leader would hold the next day. In fact, she only knew the topic of the meeting, while the specific content, the latest policies, and key issues were all unknown to her. This was her work routine, buried every day in various monotonous plans, summaries, and speeches, piling up some grandiose and nonsensical clichés in front of the computer keyboard, while also needing to be focused, distinctive, and targeted. This was her work routine, buried every day in various monotonous plans, summaries, and speeches, piling up some grandiose and nonsensical clichés in front of the computer keyboard, while also needing to be focused, distinctive, and targeted.

"Anran, don't think I don't know what you're thinking." Anna disregarded her mother's advice, "Aren't you feeling particularly pleased right now?"

Anran did not want to continue this topic, merely lowering her head to wash the dishes while allowing her mother to speak. Her mother leaned over and whispered, "You and Fang Zhe, is your relationship frequent?"

The conflict between Anna and Shen Cheng began with the desire to have children. Due to Anna's health issues, the couple had been unable to conceive for many years after their marriage. To Anna's surprise, Shen Cheng used this as an excuse to have an affair. When Anna discovered Shen Cheng's infidelity, she decisively sought a divorce. Her mother, still in shock, had advised Anna to give him another chance. However, after Anna shared something with her mother, she never mentioned Shen Cheng again.

What am I saying? I am saying that you and Fang Zhe are just putting on a show, merely getting by together. At first, Fang Zhe didn't seek anyone after his deceased girlfriend; how did he suddenly change and take a liking to you? Are you a fairy? Isn't it just because his grandmother is gravely ill? Who doesn't know about this?

If your mother does not think for you, who will? Others are eager but unable to achieve it, yet neither of you seems to be in a hurry. I just want to ask, are you two hiding something from me? Is there something wrong with either of you? If there is a problem, it should be addressed early. Nowadays, there are many people facing infertility, and this is not something to be ashamed of.

Fang Zhe took the item from her hand and said, "Did Mom not mention that there have been thieves in the neighborhood these days? I just saw someone sneaking around here. I remember seeing that person wandering around here a few days ago, so I asked the security to keep an eye out."

Alright, Mom, neither of us has any issues, so please don't worry about it

"Your husband is here to pick you up again," a colleague joked. "Look at Anran's husband; we are all just discarded goods by comparison."

It's nothing, just matters related to the project

Anran looked around and said, "He has left, perhaps he saw us talking about him."

Due to Anran's and Anna's brief exchange upon entering, the family of four had a rather subdued meal. Anran and her parents engaged in some conversation, while Anna remained silent throughout.

Is it true or not? Didn't you just get off work? Why didn't you mention anything before leaving? Always talking about overtime, who knows if it's true or not

An Ran was indeed quite surprised by Shen Cheng's infidelity, as anyone who knows him would describe him as "honest and dependable." Shen Cheng is an outsider who works in a hospital, often busy and rarely at home. It is difficult for him to return to his hometown during holidays, and he is unable to show filial piety to his own parents, yet he is particularly devoted to his in-laws. Despite his busy work schedule, he keeps in mind both the major and minor matters of the An family. Whenever An Ran's parents have a headache or a cold, he is even more concerned than An Ran and Anna, the two daughters. An Ran's parents often praise this son-in-law, saying he is just like their own son. Shen Cheng has always been very accommodating to Anna, never once saying a word of dissent to her.

You know in your heart whether it's worth it or not, who do you think doesn't know!" Anna said with a look of disdain

Whether it's true or not is another matter; in any case, eating too much takeout is definitely not good... Speaking of which, when do you two plan to have children?

Mother hurriedly said: "I was talking to Anran about your father here, afraid that your father might hear."

You are the one who is sick! Don't think I don't know that you speak behind my back, calling me mentally ill! Yes, I have an illness, I have a mental disorder! Hello, how wonderful you are, pretending to be so perfect in front of our parents, showing off your affection with Fang Zhe right under my nose every day.

It is not advisable to frequently eat takeout; takeout is often greasy and you never know what ingredients are used. You should not always order takeout; if you are too lazy to cook, just come home to eat. Eating those things all the time can harm your health. I have heard that frequently consuming takeout can affect fertility

While the two were conversing, Fang Zhe's phone rang; it was a call from his superior. Fang Zhe hung up the phone, his face filled with apology: "There is a matter at the company, I must return for a while"

Anran understood her mother too well; it was clear that her mother was stopping Anna from saying what she wanted to say. This only made her more unable to let go, and she pulled her mother aside and said: "Please don't stop her, let her speak."

Today is my father's birthday, and he is also coming to pick me up on the way, so we can go together

Anran did not expect her mother to ask such a question, and she felt embarrassed, not knowing how to respond

After that, Anran asked her mother several times before her mother finally revealed that it was not Shen Cheng's infidelity that led Anna to make the decision to divorce, but rather the hurtful words Shen Cheng had said during their arguments. Shen Cheng claimed that Anna was unable to conceive because she had ruined her body by being a mistress in the past. Upon hearing this, Anran was so furious that she wished to confront Shen Cheng immediately. Her mother merely said to let it go, as the divorce had already happened, and there was no point in lingering on it. It was also because your sister was young and confused back then, so she could not be blamed for the criticism she received.

Oh dear, mother, you really do think quite far ahead

Anran enjoys writing and has hoped since her student days to turn her hobby into a profession in the future. Now, she can be considered the main writer in their small unit, yet she is still a far cry from her original dream.

The shock that flashed across Anran's face was captured by Anna, who raised an eyebrow in mockery: "Or are you still unaware? You thought you were something special, didn't you? You laugh at others, but you are a joke yourself, you know? The whole world knows, and you are the only fool left in the dark! From now on, stop acting all high and mighty and giving me that sour face; you are even worse than I am!"

Enough! An Ran's father shouted from the living room, "Are you celebrating my birthday or just here to annoy me? Hurry up and get out! If you want to argue, take it outside so the neighbors can see how lively our family is!"